the national geographic difference| · cherry blossoms frame snowcapped mount fuji page 73 georgia...

CHERRY BLOSSOMS FRAME SNOWCAPPED MOUNT FUJIPAGE 73

GEORGIA AND ARMENIA: CROSSROADS OF CONTINENTSPAGE 58

VIETNAM, LAOS, AND CAMBODIA: TREASURES OF INDOCHINAPAGE 83

CHAMPLAIN BEGEN: PONANT SHIPPAGE 14

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AC C E S S | K N OW L E D G E | G I V E BAC K

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18 Antarctica

22 Alaska

24 Spitsbergen and Greenland

26 The Carribean and the Islands of the Atlantic Ocean

28 Oceania

30 The Indian Ocean

N O RT H A M E R I C A

32 Alaska: Denali to Kenai Fjords

33 Glacier National Park

34 Canadian Rockies by Rail Trail

35 Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

36 Arches, Canyonlands, and Mesa Verde National Parks

37 Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks

38 Belize and Tikal Private Expedition

39 Winter Wildlife in Yellowstone

S O U T H A M E R I C A

40 Peru Private Expedition

41 Ecuador Private Expedition

42 Colombia Private Expedition

43 Patagonia Private Expedition

44 Exploring Patagonia

A U S T R A L I A A N D T H E PAC I F I C

46 Australia Private Expedition

A F R I C A

47 The Great Apes of Uganda and Rwanda

48 On Safari: Tanzania’s Great Migration

50 Tanzania Private Expedition

51 Madagascar Wildlife Expedition

52 Kenya: Up Close with Elephants, Rhinos, and Big Cats

54 Morocco: Legendary Cities and the Sahara

55 Morocco Private Expedition

M I D D L E E A S T

56 The Holy Land: Past, Present, and Future

N A T I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C E X P E D I T I O N S | 2 0 1 9– 2 0 2 0

Front Cover: A zodiac in Antarctica

2 / | NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.IN

79 Tibet and Nepal: Expedition to the Highest Himalaya

80 Bhutan: Kingdom in the Clouds

82 Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia: Treasures of Indochina

84 India's Fabled Rajasthan by Rail

P R I VAT E J E T E X P E D I T I O N S

86 Around the World by Private Jet

88 Central and South America by Private Jet

R E S O U R C E S A N D M O R E

4 National Geographic Expeditions

6 The National Geographic Difference

14 All the Ways to Explore with National Geographic

91 Terms and Conditions

92 Expedition Calendar

E U R A S I A

58 Georgia and Armenia: Crossroads of Continents

60 Trans-Siberian Rail Expedition

E U R O P E

62 Iceland: Volcanoes, Glaciers, and Whales

63 Ireland: Tales and Treasures of the Emerald Isle

64 Norway's Trains and Fjords

65 Swiss Trains and the Italian Lake District

67 Italy: Renaissance Cities and Tuscan Life

68 Human Origins: Southwest France and Northern Spain

69 Southern Spain and Morocco

71 Greece: Wonders of an Ancient Empire

72 Greek Isles Private Expedition

A S I A

73 Japan Private Expedition

74 Inside Japan

76 China: Imperial Treasures and Natural Wonders

78 China Private Expedition

NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.IN | / 3

N A T I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C

E X P E D I T I O N S

National Geographic Expeditions span the globe on all seven continents and are designed

to reflect our travellers’ broad spectrum of interests. We explore on land, aboard small

ships, along classic train routes, and in the comfort of a private jet, and we offer special

trips for photographers, students, families, and independent travellers.

When you travel with us on an expedition, you'll enjoy boundless opportunities to be

surrounded by natural wonders and exotic wildlife, to explore celebrated archaeological

sites, to learn about different cultures and share in local traditions.

Why just travel when you can explore with National Geographic Expeditions.


A traveler soaking in her first view at Machu Picchu and the iconic Huayna Peak in Peru.


For more than 130 years, we’ve sent our

explorers across continents and into

remote cultures, down to the oceans’

depths, and up the highest mountains,

in an effort to better understand the

world and our relationship to it. National

Geographic Expeditions grew from this

legacy as a way to invite others to

explore—to encounter the wonders of the

world up-close and in-depth, and to be

transformed by the experience.

Through National Geographic Expeditions,

you gain access to people and places.

You’re enriched by the knowledge of our

experts and guides, and by the local

experts you meet along the way. And you

give back. When you travel with us, you

support the work of our explorers.

That is the National Geographic difference.


The monumental statues of ‘Moai’ with a star-studded sky in the background in Easter Island, Chile.


National Geographic photographer Thomas Peschak frames a selfie with fish in the waters of Baja.


Medical Anthropologist and filmmaker, Carroll Dunham has worked on over a dozen films for National Geographic. Carroll has become an expert in the Himalayas, having lived there for 25 years, and will lead the March 11 2019 departure of Bhutan: Kingdom in the Clouds.

C A R R O L L D U N H A M

Laly Lichtenfeld is a conservationist and National Geographic Explorer who works with National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative to preserve Tanzania’s lions, leopards and cheetahs. Laly will join the August 5 and September 2 departures of On Safari: Tanzania’s Great Migration.

L A L Y L I C H T E N F E L D

E X P L O R E W I T H O U R E X P E R T S

| K N O W L E D G E |

You deepen your understanding of the world when you travel with us.

From the scientists, photographers, and explorers who lead our trips to the

local guides and experts we meet in the field, you'll be surrounded by people

who are steeped in knowledge and insights about the places we visit.

Wildlife filmmaker and photographer Bertie Gregory has shot televisionshows for Nat Geo WILD and BBC's Planet Earth. He recently worked on a newNational Geographic digital series based in South Georgia.

Travel with Bertie on our South Georgia and the Falklands voyage (see page 18).

B E R T I E G R E G O R Y


T R A V E L A N D S U P P O R T E X P L O R A T I O N

| G I V E B A C K |

When you travel with us, you help further the work of our scientists, explorers,

and educators around the world. Every year, we distribute a portion of our

proceeds to the National Geographic Society, creating more opportunities to

work toward a planet in balance. To learn more, visit natgeo.com/giveback.

In Iceland, National Geographic grantees are examining how expanding meltwater lakes are impacting the rate of glacial retreat.

The Society is funding a geological survey of Egypt's Theban Mountains that will inform the archaeological preservation of ancient tombs and temples.

National Geographic photographer and grantee Ami Vitale is documenting the efforts of Kenya’s tribal communities to conserve resident megafauna, including the black rhinoceros.


A ranger at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenyashares a special moment with a black rhinoceros.


A colony of black-browed albatrosscrowds a beach in the Falkland Islands.


C L O S E R T H A N Y O U ' V E E V E R I M A G I N E D

| A C C E S S |

We open doors around the globe, so that you can go behind the scenes

to get a close-up view of the world's treasures and the work

National Geographic is doing to help protect them.

On our new expedition to Georgia and Armenia, examine early Homo erectus skullsalongside a National Geographic researcher who excavated them (see page 80).

Visit a wildlife rescue center in Vietnam's Cuc Phuong National Park, home to a National Geographic–supported project that is tackling the illegal pangolin trade (see page 120).

Meet experts at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund's Rariseke Research Centre and track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, where NG grantee Dian Fossey conducted research on gorillas for 18 years.


A L L T H E WAYSTO E X P LO R E

S T U D E N TP H O T O G R A P H Y

Immerse yourself in fascinating destinations through enriching experiences, whether you’re exploring an archaeological site or a national park. Led by a National Geographic expert, these trips celebrate the history, culture, and natural heritage of a destination.

Take to the sea aboard one of the ships in the PONANT fleet, and explore wild places from the Artic to Antarctica with an expedi-tion team of naturalists, historians, photog-raphers, and more.

Improve your photography skills with the guidance of a National Geographic photographer—whether you’re traveling through Japan or framing wildlife on the Galapágos Islands.

Send your high school or middle school student on assignment with National Geographic to explore inspiring destinations in depth alongside our National Geographic experts and trip leaders.

T R A I N

Step back in time on a rail journey, experiencing fabled landscapes from the intimate perspective of a classic train. With a National Geographic expert on board, the places you pass through take on a whole new depth and meaning.

L A N D E X P E D I T I O N C R U I S E S

U N I Q U E L O D G E S

National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World is a collection of handpicked lodges that invite guests to experience the world’s most treasured places while helping to protect them for generations to come.


P R I VA T E J E T

ModerateLight/ModerateLight

Moderate/Strenuous Strenuous Maximum

A C T I V I T Y L E V E L S

L I G H T

Travelers should be in good health and comfortable walking or standing for extended periods of time. Daily activities may include city walking tours, visits to sites, game drives on bumpy roads, or easy hikes.

L I G H T/ M O D E R A T E

Travelers should be in good health and comfortable walking or standing for extended periods of time. Daily activities may include city walking tours, visits to sites, game drives, or easy hikes, with options for more physical activities such as hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and biking. Note: All cruises are rated Light or Mod-erate; travelers can choose between light or moderate activities according to their capabilities.

M O D E R A T E

Travelers should be physically fit and prepared for multiple hours of activity (e.g., hiking, kayaking, biking) each day.

M O D E R A T E / S T R E N U O U S

Travelers should be physically fit and prepared for multiple hours of activity (e.g., hiking, kayaking, biking) each day. Certain days may have more challenging physical activity, such as ascents/descents on steep mountainous terrain.

S T R E N U O U S

Designed for experienced active travelers in excellent physical condition, these itineraries may include full-day hikes (sometimes at high altitude) or full-day kayaking excursions. Trails often include steep ascents/descents on mountainous terrain, with some exposed sections.

M A X I M U M

The ultimate challenge for serious hikers who are very fit and have experience hiking or trekking at high elevations. These itineraries include numerous chal-lenging, full-day hikes.

P R I VA T E

Travel independently—on unique itineraries curated by National Geographic—for you and the traveling companions of your choice. Explore with private guides and stay in top accommodations.

Experience wonders as far-flung as Easter Island and Marrakech on one epic journey, traveling with a team of National Geographic experts, including a National Geographic photographer, in the comfort of a VIP-configured private jet.


S E T S A I L W I T H

P O N A N T A N D

N A T I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C

From 2019, PONANT and NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC have

chosen to work together to offer all travel, discovery and

nature lovers the opportunity to embark on new expedition

cruises to some of the most secret and best-preserved

destinations on the planet.

A PARTNERSHIP FORGED AROUND COMMON VALUESA spirit of adventure, a passion for exploring, and a thirst for discovery: these are our shared values.

PONANT, the World Leader in Luxury Expeditions, sailing the seas for 30 years, boasts a modern fleet of small expedition ships. Designed to sail distant seas in comfort and safety, their small size and manoeuvrability allow them to reach the most remote lands. They are equipped with environmentally friendly devices, which are essential when crossing through fragile areas with unique and often delicate ecosystems.

By joining forces with PONANT and combining our expertise, we can now offer a range of new, unique and enriching expedition cruises to some of the world’s most intriguing, remote and pristine destinations, in the very places where the most amazing pages of exploration were written.

On board every cruise, a PONANT experienced Expedition Team along with a NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC expert specialising in topics ranging from anthropology to history to marine biology enriches the expedition through fascinating presentations and informal discussions. You will also have the opportunity to see your destination through the eyes of a NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC photographer, who is on hand to teach techniques along the way.

When you travel with National Geographic Expeditions and PONANT, you will help further the work of our scientists, explorers and educators around the world. Every year, we distribute a portion of our proceeds to the National Geographic Society*, creating more opportunities to work toward a planet in balance.

*National Geographic Society receives funds from National Geographic Partners LLC, funded in part by your purchase. To learn more, visit www.natgeo.in/info.


FALKLAND ISLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA AND ANTARCTICAUshuaia – Ushuaia | Le Soléal | 16 days / 15 nights | 14th November 2019

Montevideo – Ushuaia | Le Lyrial | 21 days / 20 nights | 19th November 2019

THE ANTARCTIC ODYSSEY

HIGHLIGHTS

• Exclusive: Circumnavigation of South Georgia;

• Hiking opportunity

• Wildlife: black-browed albatrosses, Gentoo penguins, southern rockhopper penguins, king penguins, elephant seals, fur seals, humpback whales

HIGHLIGHTS

• The most comprehensive of our cruises to the Antarctic: the Falkland Islands South Georgia, the South Orkney Islands, and the Antarctic Peninsula

• Discovery of the South Orkney Islands


FARE

Ponant Bonus fare From € 11,740 pp

Brochure fare From € 15,030 pp

FARE



The expedition highlights and itineraries described above are subject to ice and weather conditions. They illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.

The promise of an exceptional trip, the discovery of an untamed world and incredible fauna, overwhelming sights...

For a long time having remained a mystery to most of the world, today the "White Continent" still exerts a powerful fascination. Be among

the privileged few to embark on this "trip of a lifetime".

A N T A R C T I C A

USHUAIA

ARGENTINA

DrakePassage

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

FALKLAND ISLANDS

SOUTHGEORGIA

New Island

AtlanticOcean

Buenos Aires

Weddell Sea

SouthShetlands

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

Drake PassageUSHUAIA

MONTEVIDEOURUGUAY

ARGENTINA

SOUTHGEORGIA

AtlanticOcean

Weddell SeaSouth

ShetlandsSOUTH ORKNEYS

Grave Cove

FALKLANDISLANDSVolunteer Point

Buenos Aires


NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM | -888-966 -8687 11

Ushuaia – Ushuaia | L’Austral | 17 days / 16 nights | 15th January 2020

Dunedin - Lyttelton | Le Lapérouse | 15 days / 14 nights |2nd February 2020

BEYOND THE POLAR CIRCLEFIORDLAND AND THE SUB ANTARCTIC ISLANDS EXPEDITION

HIGHLIGHTS

• Antarctic Polar Circle crossing


• Wildlife: black-browed albatrosses, Gentoo penguins, southern rockhopper penguins, king penguins, elephant seals, fur seals, humpback whales, Weddell seals…

HIGHLIGHTS

• Opportunities for hiking with guided walks on the Auckland Islands, Campbell Island and Macquarie Island, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites

• Wildlife: colonies of fur seals, elephant seals, king and yellow-eyed penguins

• Landscapes: beaches of black sand, rugged mountains, hidden inlets and undulating meadows.

FARE



FARE




USHUAIA

ARGENTINA

Drake Passage

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

FALKLAND ISLANDS

SOUTHGEORGIA

New Island

AtlanticOcean

Buenos Aires

Weddell Sea

SouthShetlands

Antarctic Circle

NEW ZEALAND

DUNEDINMilford Sound

Doubtful SoundDusky Sound

Snares Islands

Auckland Islands

Campbell Island

Macquarie Island

LYTTELTON


FROM ANTARCTICA TO AFRICAUshuaia – Cape Town | Le Lyrial | 22 days / 21 nights | 25th February 2020

Ushuaia – Ushuaia | Le Boréal | 11 days / 10 nights | 26th February 2020

EMBLEMATIC ANTARCTICA

HIGHLIGHTS


• Discovering the Tristan da Cunha archipelago, many of whose islands are UNESCO World Heritage listed

• Sail around the Cape of Good Hope

• Landscapes: beaches of black sand, sheer cliffs, lush green plains and suspended glaciers

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sail the Weddell Sea, among patches of pack ice


• Visit research stations and former whaling stations

• Wildlife: humpback whales, Gentoo penguins, Adelie penguins, chinstrap penguins

FARE



FARE




ARGENTINA

USHUAIA

CAPE TOWNAtlantic Ocean

Buenos Aires

SOUTHAFRICA

Tristan da CunhaNightingale

Gough Island

SOUTH GEORGIA

FALKLAND ISLANDS

The NeckNew Island

USHUAIA

Drake Passage

ARGENTINA

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

SouthShetlands

Buenos Aires

Weddell Sea


IN THE WAKE OF PIONEERSNome - Vancouver | L’Austral | 15 days / 14 nights | 15th September 2019

Otaru - Petropavlovsk | Le Soléal | 15 days / 14 nights | 26th June 2020

THE SEA OF OKHOTSK

HIGHLIGHTS


• Visit traditional villages and encounter the Aleut people

• Landscapes: fjords, tall mountains, huge glaciers, primary forest, jagged cliffs

• Wildlife: black bears, walruses, Arctic terns, grizzlies, musk oxen, whales and orcas

HIGHLIGHTS

• Magadan, a gulag during the time of Stalin, is a prime site for ob-serving cetaceans

• Abundant and varied wildlife: many marine birds, Steller sea lions, fur seals, whales, Arctic ground squirrel, the Kamchatka brown bear

• Landscapes: uninhabited islands, mountains, forests, volcanoes

FARE



FARE




With its wide-open spaces, gigantic glaciers, jagged mountains and sparkling lakes, Alaska invites travellers to journey in the footsteps of

the fur traders and gold prospectors. Here, nature is shaped by glacier fronts, coniferous forests, and a myriad of islands and islets. A cruise

provides the perfect opportunity to get as close as possible to the abundant fauna.

A L A S K A

North PacificOcean

Dutch Harbor

FlightSeattle

Prince RupertAlert Bay

CANADA

VANCOUVER

Sitka / KakeSaintPaul

NOMEALASKA

Saint MatthewBering Sea

Icy BayTsaa Fjord

Unga IslandChankliut Island

RUSSIA

PETROPAVLOVSK

Flight SeoulOTARUJAPAN

KorsakovTulenyi

Iony Island

Okhotsk

Magadan

AntsiferovAtlasovo

Sea ofOkhotsk


MAGNIFICENT VOLCANOES OF THE ALEUTIAN ISLANDSPetropavlovsk - Juneau | Le Soléal | 13 days / 12 nights | 10th July 2020

HIGHLIGHTS

• Landscapes: volcanic islands, glaciers, oldgrowth forest

• Wildlife: whales, orcas, seabirds, grizzlies

• Kiska Island, dominated by a 1,000-metre-tall volcano

• Unga Island, home to the vestiges of an Aleutian village

FARE



RUSSIA UNITED STATES

Attu

PETROPAVLOVSK JUNEAU

Geographic HarborBering Sea

North PacificOcean

FlightSeoul

Dutch HarborKiskaAtka

IcyBay Elfin

Cove

FlightSeattle

AmchitkaChuginadak

Chankliut


FROM SCOTLAND TO SPITSBERGENDublin – Longyearbyen | L’Austral | 12 days / 11 nights | 17th May 2020

Glasgow – Longyearbyen | Le Boréal | 12 days / 11 nights | 16th June 2020

FROM THE NORWEGIAN SEA TO SPITSBERGEN

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hiking opportunity.

• Five archipelagos on the same cruise: the Hebrides, Orkney Islands, Shetland Islands, Lofoten Islands and Svalbard.

• Cross the Arctic Circle.

• Wildlife: multiple species of birds, whales, dolphins and seals in the British Isles; fin whales, arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discovery the wild and remote islands in the Norwegian Sea and Greenland Sea

• Landscapes: fjords, vertiginous cliffs, ice floes, icebergs, ice caps, steep-sided valleys

• Wildlife: a wide range of seabirds, fin whales, arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer

• Cross the Arctic CircleFARE



FARE




On the borders of inhabited lands, at high northern latitudes, where the sun merely brushes the horizon during the short austral summer,

sail to Spitsbergen to encounter the lord of the sea ice: the polar bear. In Greenland, you can admire magnificent landscapes combining ice

and greenery as well as exceptional marine and avian wildlife. You will also have the privilege of meeting the Inuit in their villages made up

of brightly-coloured houses.

S P I T S B E RG E N A N D G R E E N L A N D

Horn Glacier

LONGYEARBYEN

NORWAY

Tromso

SPITSBERGEN

Bjornoya

Arctic Circle

Norway Sea

Iona / TobermoryIRELAND

PortreeKirkwall

Lerwick

Reine / Leknes

Flight London

Isbukta

UNITED KINGDOMDUBLIN

SCOTLANDGLASGOWStornoway Kirkwall

HeimaeyDjupivogur

SeydisfjördurICELAND

Jan Mayen Island

Horn Glacier

SPITSBERGENBellsund LONGYEARBYEN

Flight London


GREENLAND AND NEWFOUNDLANDReykjavik - Saint Pierre and Miquelon | Le Champlain | 10 days / 9 nights | 19th August 2020

HIGHLIGHTS

• Landscapes: fjords, rugged mountains, glaciers, wild tundra, sheer cliffs and the polar ice cap

• Sail along Prince Christian Sound a narrow, 100-km long passage that winds its way through cliffs and glaciers

• Visit traditional villages and meet the Inuit people

FARE




THE BIJAGOS ARCHIPELAGO AND CAPE VERDEPraia – Dakar | Le Dumont-d’Urville | 12 days / 11 nights | 24th October 2019

Puerto Morelos - Puerto Morelos | Le Champlain | 8 days / 7 nights | 23rd November 2019

ADVENTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cidade Velha, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Visit traditional villages and meet the Bijogo people who have ancestral traditions

• The mangrove swamp, covering more than a third of the emerged part of the Bijagós archipelago

HIGHLIGHTS

• A cruise to four Central American countries: idyllic beaches, dive sites, and discover the Garifuna culture

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Belize Barrier Reef with Half Moon Caye and the Great Blue Hole

• Swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving at the Great Blue Hole in Belize, one of the world’s most beautiful diving sites

FARE



FARE




From the Caribbean Sea to the archipelagos lost in the Atlantic Ocean, discover an untamed nature of exceptional beauty and remarkable

natural attractions classed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will be able to observe an extraordinary biodiversity and meet communities

with ancient traditions, living in harmony with their environment.

T H E C A R R I B E A N A N D T H E I S L A N D S O F T H E AT L A N T I C O C E A N

PRAIADAKAR

SENEGAL

Atlantic Ocean

Fogo

Porto NovoMindelo

São Nicolau

CAPE VERDE

MaioCaravela / Laterite BeachAmpincha / Binte

Flight fromParis

BIJAGOS

Caribbean Sea

Half Moon Caye

PUERTO MORELOS

GUATEMALA

BELIZE

MEXICO

HONDURAS

Banco Chinchorro

Isla UtilaLivingston

Calabash Caye

Isla Mujeres


FERNANDO DE NORONHA AND THE BIJAGOS ARCHIPELAGORecife – Dakar | L’Austral | 12 days / 11 nights | 21st March 2020

HIGHLIGHTS

• Meet the Bijogo people

• Landscapes: pristine beaches in Fernando de Noronha; mangrove swamp, savanna, tropical rainforests and white sand beaches in the Bijagós Islands

• Wildlife: turtles, sharks, dolphins in the Fernando de Noronha islands; saltwater hippos, crocodiles, sea turtles, rays

FARE



RECIFE BRAZIL

DAKARSENEGAL

Atlantic ocean

Bijagos

Fernando de Noronha

Caravela / Carache GUINEA-BISSAU


ANCIENT CULTURES OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA AND PAPUADarwin – Cairns | Le Lapérouse | 11 days / 10 nights | 6th December 2019

Lautoka – Guam | Le Soléal | 16 days / 15 nights | 1st April 2020

FROM FIJI TO MICRONESIA

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cultural performances and traditional welcome in several remote Aboriginal communities

• Encounters with the local populations and the possibility of buying Aboriginal works of art from the artists

• Discover the Asmat region and its small traditional villages

HIGHLIGHTS

• Vanuatu: traditional villages, tropical beaches, coral reefs, active volcanoes

• The Solomon Islands, a secret destination in the South Pacific

• Micronesia, a scattering of islands and atolls with breathtak-ing underwater scenery

• Encounters with local people

FARE



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Your ship will take you to the heart of the southern seas, to discover paradise-like islands of untamed beauty with centuries-old traditions.

In the north-east of the Australian continent, the Top End offers travellers a unique experience to enjoy the last untouched areas, while

Micronesia and its lavish seabeds, unaffected by the passing of time, provide an opportunity for a complete change of scenery.

O C E A N I A

CAIRNSAUSTRALIA

DARWIN

WurrumiyangaElcho Island Yirrkala

INDONESIAAsmat

PAPUANEW GUINEA

SOLOMON ISLANDS

Rabaul

LAUTOKAFIJI

GUAM

AmbrymEspiritu Santo

Santa AnaHoniara

MICRONESIA

ChuukPulap

SatawalGaferut

VANUATU


SECRET ISLANDS OF THE SEYCHELLES AND ALDABRA ATOLLMahe – Mahe | Le Bougainville | 13 days / 12 nights | 14th December 2019

HIGHLIGHTS

• UNESCO site: Aldabra, the largest coral atoll in the world

• Discover the Outer Islands of the Seychelles and the Farquhar Atoll. These islands are very remote and rarely visited

• Possibility of observing tortoises on Aldabra

• Encounters with the locals

FARE




A scattering of islands across the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles archipelago is nothing short of heaven on Earth. Isolated from the rest of the

world for millions of years, these coral and granite islands have contributed to the development of a fauna and flora unlike any others. The

many national parks that take up close to half of the territory and the large marine reserves are home to a wide variety of animal species, such

as the giant tortoise.

T H E I N D I A N O C E A N

VICTORIA, MAHÉ

Poivre

Astove

AlphonseBijoutier Island

SEYCHELLES

Aldabra

Indian Ocean

Desroches

La Digue

Cosmoledo Farquhar

Cerf Island St Pierre Island

Marie LouiseIsland


• Take in Alaska's epic wilderness through the glass-domed cars of the Denali Star train.

• Explore Denali’s backcountry from our adventure lodge deep in the heart of the park.

• Spot marine life and tidewater glaciers on a cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park.

8 D AY S F R O M $ 6 , 7 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: June 5–12 | June 12–19 | Aug. 28–Sept. 4 Sept. 4–11

A National Geographic expert andexpedition leader will accompany you on this trip. Naturalist and environ-mental scientist Carl Tobin will join all the June departures, as well as the August 14, 2019 departure.

Call or visit our website for full itineraries, inclusions, and more.

INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Kids ages 7–17 receive a $200 discount on family departures. Single supplement is from $1,200. Airfare is not included in the price.

Above: A bull moose makes its way across a colorful patch of tundra in Denali.

A L A S K A : D E N A L I T O K E N A I F J O R D S

DAYS 1–2 I FAIRBANKS, ALASKA/DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVEHear Iditarod tales from trail veteran Mary Shields—the first woman to complete the race—and interact with sled dogs at her cabin outside Fairbanks. Ride the Denali Star, taking in the scenery from the train’s upper deck. Later, drive to our lodge deep in the heart of Denali, spotting moose, caribou, grizzly bears, and more along our route. Springhill Suites Fairbanks; DenaliBackcountry Lodge | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L/D

DAYS 3–5 I DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE/ANCHORAGESpend two full days exploring Denali's mag-nificent interior by foot or mountain bike from Denali Backcountry Lodge, one of National Geographic's Top 10 Adventure Lodges of the World. Continue to Anchorage for an evening at leisure. Denali Backcountry Lodge; Hotel Captain Cook | Meals: Days 3–4: B/L/D Daily; Day 5: B/L

DAY 6 I SEWARD HIGHWAY/KENAI PENINSULATravel the stunningly scenic Seward Highway on one of National Geographic’s Drives of a Lifetime. Ride the tram to the top of Mount Alyeska, and get up close to Alaska’s wild residents at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Seward Windsong Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–8 I KENAI FJORDS NATIONAL PARK/ANCHORAGECruise the coast of Kenai Fjords National Park, spotting all manner of marine life, including orcas, humpbacks, sea otters, and harbor seals; and see an advancing tidewater glacier calve chunks of ice into the water. Hike to the terminus of Exit Glacier. Seward Windsong Lodge | Meals: Day 7: B/L/D; Day 8: B


• Join a naturalist to search for bears, moose, and bighorn sheep in Glacier National Park.

• Ascend the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road and go rafting on the Flathead River.

• Spend a day amid the stunning mountains of Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park.

7 D AY S F R O M $ 4 ,9 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: July 6–12 | Aug. 3–9 | Aug. 17–23 Sept. 1–7 | Sept. 7–13

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Geologist, naturalist, and avid birder Kitty Coley will join the August 17 departure.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $1,255. Airfare is not included in the price.

Above: Historic red buses wind along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road.

G L A C I E R N A T I O N A L P A R K

DAY 1 I KALISPELL, MONTANA/WHITEFISHArrive in Kalispell and transfer to our hotel in Whitefish. Grouse Mountain Lodge

DAYS 2–3 I BIG MOUNTAIN/LAKE MCDONALDRide to the scenic summit of Big Mountain, and set off on a hike overlooking Flathead Valley. Then explore the west side of Glacier National Park from our base at a historic lodge. Experience Lake McDonald Valley while hiking one of the many trails to Avalanche Lake. Later,

take to the waters of the Middle Fork of the Flathead River on a float trip. Lake McDonald Lodge | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 4–5 I GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD/ MANY GLACIER VALLEYJourney along the Going-to-the-Sun Road—a 50-mile engineering marvel that crosses the Continental Divide. We'll stop for some truly breathtaking hikes before arriving in Many Glacier Valley, home to abundant wildlife and some of the park’s last visible glaciers. Cruise across Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes aboard a classic wooden boat. Then delve deeper into the valley, choosing between a short hike or a more strenuous trek to a glacier. Many Glacier Hotel | Meals B/L/D Daily

DAY 6 I WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK, CANADASet out on a daylong excursion to Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park, which, together with Glacier, became the world's first international peace park in 1932. Explore the area on foot and by boat, and enjoy a classic “high tea” at the legendary Prince of Wales Hotel. Many Glacier Hotel

DAY 7 I KALISPELLAfter breakfast, depart for home. Meals: B


• Take in views of Canada's Rockies from the glass-domed Rocky Mountaineer train.

• Trek atop the powerful Athabasca Glacier with an expert guide.

• Settle into iconic hotels, including the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

8 D AY S F R O M $ 1 0 , 7 9 5

Train Light

2019 Dates: July 8–15 | Aug. 12–19 | Sept. 2–9 Sept. 23–30

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Geologist and naturalist Kirt Kempter will join the September 23, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION


Above: The Rocky Mountaineer, as captured by National Geographic photographer Susan Seubert while on assignment.

C A N A D I A N R O C K I E S B Y R A I L A N D T R A I L

DAY 1 I VANCOUVER, CANADAWalk Stanley Park’s famous seawall for incredible views of the Vancouver skyline. Wedgewood Hotel and Spa | Meals: D

DAYS 2–3 I ROCKY MOUNTAINEERClimb aboard the celebrated Rocky Mountaineer train and take in jaw-dropping views of the Canadian Rockies from luxurious glass-domed coaches. Ride past dramatic gorges and waterfalls, and cross the Continental Divide at

Yellowhead Pass. Our train voyage culminates as we glide by Mount Robson, the tallest summit in the Canadian Rockies. Hotel 540 or Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel; Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Meals: Day 2: B/L; Day 3: B/L/D

DAYS 4–5 I JASPER NATIONAL PARKDiscover the pristine beauty and iconic creatures of Jasper National Park. Cruise across Maligne Lake, and soar into the mountains via the Jasper SkyTram for stunning views of glacier-sculpted valleys splashed with turquoise lakes. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Meals: Day 4: B/L; Day 5: B/L/D

DAY 6 I ICEFIELDS PARKWAYTravel along the scenic Icefields Parkway toward Banff National Park, stopping en route for a trekking excursion atop Athabasca Glacier. Later, settle into our historic lake-front hotel. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Meals: B/L

DAYS 7–8 I BANFF NATIONAL PARK/ YOHO NATIONAL PARK/CALGARYHike through spectacular Banff National Park to discover the mirror-like waters of Moraine Lake. Enjoy a picnic lunch, then view the Spiral Tunnels of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Browse the Yoho National Park Visitor Centre and its impressive fossil exhibits. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Meals: Day 7: B/L/D; Day 8: B


• Join a National Geographic expert to seek out grizzlies, bison, and wolves in the Lamar Valley.

• Meet a renowned wildlife photographer at his home studio.

• Raft the scenic Snake River beneath towering Teton Peaks.

8 D AY S F R O M $ 4 ,9 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: June 1–8 | July 27–Aug. 3 | Aug. 24–31 Sept. 4–11 | Sept. 26–Oct. 3

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Geologist Kirt Kempter will join the May 18 and June 1, 2019 departures.


INFORMATION


Above: A traveler captures a picture-perfect reflection of the Tetons.

Y E L L O W S T O N E A N DG R A N D T E T O N N AT I O N A L P A R K S

DAYS 1–2 I BOZEMAN, MONTANA/ MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WYOMING Arrive in Bozeman. The next morning, take a scenic drive to Mammoth Hot Springs, just inside Yellowstone National Park. Stroll along travertine terraces sculpted by the hot springs before a welcome dinner. Hilton Garden Inn Bozeman; Best Western by Mammoth Hot Springs | Meals: Day 2–5: B/L/D Daily

DAY 3 I LAMAR VALLEY Rise early for a safari in the Lamar Valley and search for bison, bears, elk, and the elusive gray wolf—reintroduced here in 1995. Meet with arenowned wildlife photographer, and enjoy hikes and more wildlife sightings this afternoon. Best Western by Mammoth Hot Springs

DAYS 4–5 I GRAND CANYON OF THE YELLOWSTONE/UPPER GEYSER BASIN At the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, take a short walk to view towering waterfalls set against a dazzling red and gold palette. Con-tinue to the Upper Geyser Basin and witness the clockwork eruption of Old Faithful. Then explore this stunning geothermal landscape with our expert. Old Faithful Inn or Old Faithful Snow Lodge

DAYS 6–8 I GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK/JACKSONJourney south to the saw-toothed Teton Range. Visit the historic Murie Ranch, and en-joy a float trip on the Snake River. Explore the National Museum of Wildlife Art or downtown Jackson. Ride a tram to the top of Rendezvous Peak before transferring to the airport for your flight home. Jackson Lake Lodge | Meals: Day 6: B/L; Day 7: B/L/D; Day 8: B


• Hike and picnic among the intriguing landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

• Arrive at your riverside lodge by raft after a float down the Colorado River.

• Take a 4×4 tour of Monument Valley with Navajo guides.

7 D AY S F R O M $ 4 , 4 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: Apr. 21–27 | May 5–11 | May 12–18 Oct. 6–12 | Oct. 13–19 | Oct. 20–26

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompanythis trip. Geologist and naturalistKitty Coley will join the October 20, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $950. Airfare is not included in the price.

Above: Pausing to survey the sun as it creeps above Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park.

A R C H E S , C A N Y O N L A N D S , A N D M E S A V E R D E N A T I O N A L P A R K S

DAY 1 I GRAND JUNCTION, COLORADOArrive in Grand Junction and transfer to your hotel. DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Junction

DAYS 2–3 I MOAB, UTAHTake the scenic route to Moab on a rafting trip along the Colorado River into Utah's canyon country, and arrive at our riverside lodge. Rise early the following morning and explore Arches National Park on a series of short hikes. Visit Dead Horse Point State

Park, a promontory high above a gooseneck in the Colorado River. Red Cliffs Lodge | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 4–5 I CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK/MONUMENT VALLEYVisit Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument, and hike among sandstone spires in the Needles District of Canyonlands. Enjoy a picnic, then retreat for the night to the historic town of Bluff. The next day, get immersed in one of the most iconic landscapes of the American West— Monument Valley. Join native guides on a jeep tour of the valley, hear the Navajo perspective on the area’s history, and enjoy a traditional Navajo lunch. Desert Rose Inn | Meals B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–7 I MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK, COLORADO/DURANGOSet off on a breathtaking drive through Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, and arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mesa Verde National Park—a complex network of Ancestral Puebloan dwellings. Discover the remarkable culture that built these villages and imposing cliff dwellings, then continue to the historic railroad town of Durango. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Strater Hotel | Meals: Day 6: B/L/D; Day 7: B


• Hear an expert describe the geological events that shaped America’s canyonlands.

• Delve into Zion's magnificent sandstone slot canyons and Bryce Canyon’s maze of red spires.

• Stay in historic national park lodges, and learn about area wildlife from rangers.

8 D AY S F R O M $ 4 , 7 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: May 25–June 1 | June 15–22 Aug. 24–31 | Sept. 7–14 | Sept. 21–28 | Oct. 5–12

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Author and biologist Jeremy Schmidt will join the June 15, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION


Above: Delicate rock formations pierce the horizon in Bryce Canyon National Park.

G R A N D C A N Y O N , B R Y C E ,A N D Z I O N N A T I O N A L P A R K S

DAYS 1–2 I ST. GEORGE, UTAH/ GRAND CANYON, ARIZONAFrom St. George, venture into canyon country, stopping at Pipe Springs National Monument. Settle into our historic lodge overlooking the Grand Canyon. Best Western Plus Abbey Inn; Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim | Meals: Day 1: D; Days 2–7: B/L/D Daily

DAY 3 I GRAND CANYON NORTH RIMExplore the canyon’s rim, peering into the

multi-hued chasm carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. Choose from a variety of hikes and learn about the park’s unique ecosystems. Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim

DAYS 4–5 I ZION NATIONAL PARK, UTAHJourney along the spectacular Mount Carmel Scenic Byway to Zion National Park. Hear from our expert about the geologic events that shaped the pink-toned Grand Staircase. Spend the next day exploring Zion, a wonderland of sandstone slot canyons, hanging gardens, and cascading waterfalls. Flanigan's Inn

DAYS 6–7 I BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARKTravel to Bryce Canyon and take in breathtak-ing views from Fairyland Canyon. Join a park ranger for a telescope viewing of the starlit sky. Discover Bryce's Canyon's famous hoodoos, whimsical rock formations that have been eroded into surreal spires. Bryce Canyon Lodge or Best Western Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel

DAY 8 I ZION NATIONAL PARK/ ST. GEORGEWind through Red Canyon and continue to Kolob Canyons—Zion National Park’s hidden gem—before returning to St. George. Meals: B


• Delve into Maya culture at Copal Tree Lodge—a National Geographic Unique Lodge.

• Enjoy a private tour of the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal.

• Snorkel among myriad marine life on the world’s second largest coral reef system.

9 D AY S F R O M $ 3 ,9 9 5

Private Light/Moderate

Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, except in September and October, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Pricing for parties of two or four can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $705 per person (subject to change).

Please note: A U.S. Department of State travel advisory is currently in effect for Guatemala (travel.stage.gov).

Above: A snorkeler follows close on the fins of a sea turtle.

Copal Tree Lodge

Knowledgeable local guides will accompany you on your trip, and you will meet other local experts as described in the itinerary.

EXPEDITION TEAM

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC UNIQUE LODGE

based on 6 people traveling together

B E L I Z E A N D T I K A L P R I VAT E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–3 I BELIZE CITY/ PUNTA GORDA, BELIZETravel to Copal Tree Lodge—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World nestled in the lush coastal jungles of southern Belize. Upon arrival, National Geographic guests are invited to participate in an exclusive chocolate- making class and a coffee tasting. During your stay, snorkel pristine cayes, seek out the endangered West Indian manatee, and meet

park rangers at the Port of Honduras Marine Reserve. Visit a family in a Kek’chi Maya village, and help prepare traditional dishes before sitting down to lunch with your hosts. Copal Tree Lodge | Meals: Days 2–3: B/L Daily

DAYS 4–5 I BELIZE CITY/CAYO DISTRICT/ TIKAL, GUATEMALAFly back to Belize City and visit the Belize Zoo—an animal rehabilitation sanctuary— before continuing to the Cayo District. Cross the border into Guatemala for a private tour of the ancient Maya ruins at Tikal. Chaa Creek | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 6–9 I CAYO DISTRICT, BELIZE/ AMBERGRIS CAYEVisit the Barton Creek Cave and canoe through the passageways of this Maya underworld. Then fly to stunning Ambergris Caye, border-ing the Belize Barrier Reef. Swim and snorkel among sharks, stingrays, and coral gardens at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, and opt to dive into the sapphire depths of Belize’s Great Blue Hole if you wish. Fly home via Belize City. Victoria House Resort & Spa Meals: Day 6: B/L; Days 7–9: B Daily


• Explore Yellowstone by heated snow coach, and see Old Faithful without the crowds.

• Meet a wildlife cinematographer and hear about his career shooting for National Geographic.

• Search for bison and elusive wolves while on safari in the sweeping Lamar Valley.

6 D AY S F R O M $ 4 , 8 9 5

Land Light

2019 Dates: Dec. 22–27 | Dec. 24–29Dec. 27, 2019–Jan. 1, 2020 | Dec. 30, 2019–Jan. 4, 20202020 Dates: Jan. 5–10 | Jan. 12–17 | Jan. 25–30 Feb. 16–21 | Feb. 22–27

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Author and biologist Jeremy Schmidt will join the December 24 and 30, 2019 departures.


INFORMATION

These departures are photography expeditions, led by a National Geographic photographer and limited to 16 travelers. Cost: from $5,395 per person, double occupancy, and subject to change


Above: A herd of bison forage for grasses and sedges beneath the snow.

W I N T E R W I L D L I F E I N Y E L L O W S T O N E

DAY 1 I BOZEMAN, MONTANA/GARDINERTravel to our hotel just outside Yellowstone National Park. Best Western Plus by Mammoth Hot Springs | Meals: D

DAY 2 I MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WYOMING/LAMAR VALLEYAt Mammoth Hot Springs, stroll colorful mineral-spring terraces outlined in snow. Then head to the Lamar Valley, where gray wolves were first reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995,

and use a spotting scope to search for these elusive creatures. Later, a renowned wildlife cinematographer joins us (his schedule permit-ting) to share his experiences shooting for National Geographic. Best Western Plus by Mammoth Hot Springs | Meals: Days 2–5; B/L/D Daily

DAYS 3–4 I GRAND CANYON OF THE YELLOWSTONE/OLD FAITHFULWalk to the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to see its thundering waterfall and the ice arch that forms from the spray. Continue to Old Faithful to explore a dramatic landscape of erupting geysers, frozen waterfalls, and gem-colored mineral pools. Keep an eye out for wildlife—bison, encrusted in ice, often stand among the pools for warmth. After dark, step out-side to admire the incredible canopy of stars in one of the world's best constellation-viewing spots. Old Faithful Snow Lodge

DAY 5 I YELLOWSTONE/BIG SKY, MONTANAAfter visiting the whimsical Fountain Paint Pot, travel to Big Sky, Montana and settle into a comfortable log cabin lodge. Celebrate our adventure at a farewell dinner. Rainbow Ranch Lodge or Lone Mountain Ranch

DAY 6 I BOZEMANReturn to Bozeman for your flight home. Meals: B


• Stay in three spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World.

• Unlock the secrets of Machu Picchu while exploring with a private guide.

• Attend a private demonstration of traditional Andean wool-dying and weaving.

9 D AY S F R O M $ 4 , 8 9 5


Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, so you may request any dates that are convenient to you.



INFORMATION

EXPEDITION TEAM

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Pricing for parties of two or four can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the cost.

Above: Women in traditional dress stroll through Cusco.

This trip includes stays at three National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: Inkaterra La Casona, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba (pictured above), and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel.

P E R U P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I CUSCO, PERUFly to Cusco and settle into Inkaterra La Casona— a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection—and enjoy an exclusive architectural tour of this 16th-century manor, once home to Simón Bolívar. The next day, take a private tour of Cusco. Inkaterra La Casona | Meals: Day 2: B

DAYS 3–5 I SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCASpend three days exploring the Sacred Valley

from your base at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, a National Geographic Unique Lodge perched dramatically among emerald slopes. Get immersed in traditional Andean culture as you stroll Pisac’s famous market, learn about llamas in Awanacancha, visit the mountain village of Patacancha, and attend a private demonstration of traditional Andean wool-dying and weaving —practices recently revived in the region by National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez. See ancient Inca agriculture systems at Chinchero and Moray, visit the mountainside salt mines of Maras, and explore Ollantaytambo. Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 6–9 I MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO/LIMA Take the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, or disembark early for a guided trek on the Inca Trail. Settle into Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge nestled within its own private rain forest reserve. Take a guided nature walk through the property’s lush grounds, and visit the on-site spectacled bear rehabilitation program. Tour Machu Picchu at sunrise with a private guide. Enjoy a free night in Cusco before flying home via Lima. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel; Inkaterra La Casona | Meals: Days 6–7: B/D Daily; Days 8–9: B Daily


NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC UNIQUE LODGES


• Sail between the isles of the Galápagos by yacht, enjoying up-close encounters with wildlife.

• Ride an aerial bike through the treetops of the Chocó rain forest.

• Stay at two spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 7, 6 9 5


Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Prices for parties of two can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $600 per person (subject to change).

Above: A pair of sea lions frolick in the waters off the Galápagos Islands.

This trip includes stays at two National Geographic Unique Lodges: Mashpi Lodge (pictured above) and Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

E C U A D O R P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–5 I QUITO, ECUADOR/GALÁPAGOSFrom Quito, travel to the Galápagos Islands and settle into Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World tucked into one of Isla Santa Cruz’s secluded bays. As a National Geographic guest, you’re exclusively invited to a private ceviche-making class with a lodge chef. Enjoy three days to explore the wild wonders of this famed archipelago with lodge naturalists. Sail aboard an intimate yacht, disembarking to

seek out blue-footed boobies and frigate birds on North Seymour Island, spot Sally Lightfoot crabs and land iguanas on Isla Plaza Sur, snorkel with sea lions and penguins, and much more.Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel; Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel | Meals: Days 2–5: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–7 I QUITOTake a private tour of Quito’s old town, which earned the city distinction as the first UNESCO- designated world capital. Discover grand colonial buildings and plazas, and step through the doors of some of Quito’s most beautiful churches. Casa Gangotena | Meals: Day 6: B; Day 7: B/L

DAYS 8–11 I MASHPI RESERVEVisit the archaeological site of Tulipe en route to Mashpi Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set in a cloud forest reserve. Set out on interpretive day and nighttime walks through the forest, seeking out howler monkeys, kaleidoscopic birds, neon frogs, and more. Join a biologist at the Life Center—the lodge’s research station—for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour. Visit the Equatorial Monument on your return trip to the Quito airport. Mashpi Lodge | Meals: Days 8–10: B/L/D Daily; Day 11: B

based on 4+ people traveling together


EXPEDITION TEAM



• Explore Medellín’s revitalized Comuna 13 neighborhood with a local artist.

• Observe armadillos, sloths, and anteaters at a wildlife rehabilitation center.

• Discover Afro-Colombian culture at the first settlement for liberated slaves in the Americas.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 4 ,9 9 5




INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Prices for parties of two or four can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $305 per person (subject to change).

Above: A woman sells fruit outside Cartagena’s Torre del Reloj.

C O L O M B I A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA On a private tour of Bogotá, visit the traditional Plaza de Paloquemao market and ride a gondola to the summit of Cerro de Monserrate. Bask in the glow of pre-Columbian artifacts at the Gold Museum, go behind the scenes at Teatro Colón, and peruse the Botero Museum. Sofitel Bogotá Victoria Regia | Meals: Day 2: B/L/D

DAYS 3–4 I COFFEE TRIANGLELearn about the coffee production process

at a farm outside Armenia, where some of the world’s best java is produced. Hike through an emerald valley in La Carbonera and enjoy a picnic beneath swaying Quindío wax palms. Hotel Estrella del Monte | Meals: Day 3: B/D; Day 4: B/L/D

DAYS 5–6 I ALTO DE SAN MIGUEL/MEDELLÍNVenture into the cloud forests of Alto de San Miguel with a private guide, and visit the AIUNAU wildlife rehabilitation center to observe rescued armadillos, sloths, and anteaters. Join a local artist to discover Medellín’s once-notorious Comuna 13 neighborhood, now transformed into a vibrant creative enclave. Patio del Mundo Meals: Day 5: B/L/D; Day 6: B/L

DAYS 7–10 I CARTAGENA/ PALENQUE DE SAN BASILIOOn a private tour of enchanting Cartagena, see sites that inspired Colombian author and Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez. Venture to Palenque de San Basilio, believed to be the first settlement for liberated slaves in the Americas. Sail to idyllic Isla Majagua and explore by canoe, foot, or bike; then step to the rhythm of vallenato music during a private dance lesson. Casa San Agustín | Meals: Day 7: B/D; Day 8: B/L



EXPEDITION TEAM


• Join a private guide for a hike beneath Argentina’s iconic Fitz Roy massif.

• Witness the powerful calving of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

• Stay at stunning Tierra Patagonia, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 7,9 9 5



INFORMATION

Above: A guest takes in the view of the Torres del Paine peaks from the pool at Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa.

P A T A G O N I A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAY 1 I BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINAEnjoy a day at leisure in Buenos Aires’ stylish Recoleta district, or take an optional private city tour. Mio Buenos Aires

DAYS 2–3 I LOS GLACIARES NATIONAL PARKJourney to El Chaltén, gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Join a private guide for a trek beneath the dramatic ice-clad spires of the Fitz Roy massif. Your destination is Laguna de los Tres, a turquoise lake framed by the iconic

Monte Fitz Roy, and the perfect spot for your picnic lunch. Hosteria Senderos | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 4–5 I PERITO MORENO GLACIERSet out from El Calafate to discover the magnif-icent natural displays of the advancing Perito Moreno Glacier. View the glacier’s rugged, calving face from nearby walkways, and then join a boat cruise on the surrounding waters for a different perspective. Hotel Posada Los Alamos | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 6–10 I TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK, CHILEDrive to Torres del Paine National Park, where you’ll settle into Tierra Patagonia, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched at the edge of Lake Sarmiento. National Geographic guests will be treated to an exclu-sive architecture tour of this award-winning property. Spend three full days exploring the wilds of Torres del Paine by foot, horseback, or 4×4 vehicle. Encounter sapphire lakes and rushing waterfalls, rugged peaks and karst cor-nices. Ride horseback alongside local gauchos across sweeping glacial valleys, or visit a working estancia, or ranch. Transfer to Punta Arenas for your flight home. Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa Meals: Days 6–9: B/L/D Daily; Day 10: B

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa


YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM


Dates: This is a private expedition offered from October through March, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Pricing for parties of two or four can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price. The internal flight is an additional $465 per person (subject to change).



• Explore Patagonia’s incredible wonders by land and sea.

• Settle into Tierra Patagonia, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.

• Take a walk across Magdalena Island, home to more than 100,000 Magellanic penguins.

1 2 D AY S F R O M $ 1 1 , 7 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

Clockwise from above: A photographer captures the scenery surrounding the famed Paine massif; Magellanic penguins nesting in Patagonia;Travelers survey a massive glacier in Patagonia; Tango dancers strike a pose in Buenos Aires' La Boca neighborhood.

E X P L O R I N G P A T A G O N I A

DAY 1 I BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINAArrive this morning in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires. Transfer to our hotel in the heart of the stylish Recoleta neighborhood and explore the nearby galleries, museums, and cafés at your leisure. Enjoy a tango performance, followed by a welcome dinner. Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta | Meals: D

DAY 2 I BUENOS AIRESSpend the day discovering this cosmopolitan capital, known as the Paris of South America. On a city tour, see the Recoleta Cemetery, final resting place for Eva “Evita” Perón and other notable Argentinians. Continue to the historic presidential palace, La Casa Rosada, and the cathedral in Plaza de Mayo. After lunch, ex-plore the cobblestoned lanes of San Telmo and the colorful artists’ quarter of La Boca. Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta | Meals: B/L

DAY 3 I USHUAIA/TIERRA DEL FUEGO NATIONAL PARKFly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, and visit Tierra del Fuego National Park. Embark our ship and sail toward the famed Beagle Channel. M.V. Stella Australis or M.V. Ventus Australis | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4 I CAPE HORN, CHILE/WULAIA BAYWeather permitting, take Zodiacs to Cape Horn for panoramic views from the southernmost tip of South America. Later, explore Wulaia Bay, where Charles Darwin landed during his voyage on the H.M.S. Beagle. Choose one of two walks to experience the spectacular beauty of the sur-rounding Magellanic forest. M.V. Stella Australis or M.V. Ventus Australis | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 5–6 I MAGDALENA CHANNEL/ AGOSTINI SOUNDAs we navigate the Magdalena Channel, spot penguins, dolphins, albatrosses, and other seabirds. After entering the Pia Fjord, board Zodiacs and head out on a shore excursion on Pia Glacier. Continue along the Beagle Channel to the Garibaldi Glacier. Embark on a challeng-ing hike through the Magellanic forest if you choose. The next day, cruise majestic Agostini Sound, and disembark for a closer look at Águila Glacier. During an easy walk, take in spectacular views of the brilliant blue-and-white ice set off by black mountains, and learn about the geo-logic forces that shaped this dramatic land.M.V. Stella Australis or M.V. Ventus Australis Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I MAGDALENA ISLAND/ PUNTA ARENASTake a morning walk on Magdalena Island, home to a colony of more than 100,000 Magellanic penguins. Disembark in Punta Arenas and con-tinue across the southern Pampas, looking for herds of guanacos as well as rheas, gray foxes, and black-necked swans. Settle into our spec-tacular hotel—Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection.Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa | Meals: B/L/D


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Naturalist Eduardo Shaw has lived with his family in Patagonia for more than 20 years. He will join the November 10, 2019, and both January 2020 departures.


INFORMATION


OPTIONAL EXTENSION

AND M.V. STELLA AUSTRALIS

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa

DAYS 8–10 I TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

During the next three days, tailor your explo-ration to your interests, choosing from among a variety of hiking and horseback-riding excur-sions in the park. Discover Lago de Grey and its incredibly blue sculpted ice; hike through beech forests along the shore of Laguna Azul; and marvel at rock paintings left by the indig-enous Aonikenk people, some of the earliest inhabitants of the region. Photograph wildlife near the northern limits of the park; or relax at the hotel, taking advantage of its wonderful amenities. Enjoy evening lectures, and cap off your stay with a festive barbecue in the com-pany of local gauchos, getting a glimpse into traditional Patagonian cowboy culture. Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 11 I PUNTA ARENAS/SANTIAGOToday, drive to the Punta Arenas airport for the flight to Santiago. Arrive this evening and check in to our hotel.The Singular Santiago | Meals: B/L

DAY 12 I SANTIAGOSpend a full day exploring Santiago. On a walking tour of the city center, see the elegant Plaza de Armas, the Palacio de la Moneda, and the 18th-century Metropolitan Cathedral. View

the impressive collection at Santiago’s Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, and enjoy a farewell celebration at a Chilean winery. This evening, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B/L

2019 Dates: Mar. 3–14 | Nov. 10–21 | Nov. 22–Dec. 3 Dec. 28, 2019–Jan. 8, 20202020 Dates: Jan. 13–24 | Jan. 25–Feb. 5 | Feb. 6–17 Feb. 22–Mar. 4 | Mar. 5–16

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single-cabin pricing is from $15,145. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $1,200 per person (subject to change).

The M.V. Ventus Australis (built in 2017) and M.V. Stella Australis (built in 2010) are sister ships designed specif-ically to cruise the spectacular Patagonian waterways. Each ship has a hundred outside-facing cabins that feature a large window, an en suite bathroom, a satellite phone, and individual temperature controls. Cabins are available on three levels: Category A on the second level, Category AA on the third level, and Category AAA on the fourth level. Facilities include an open deck, three lounges, a library, a game room, and a single-seating dining room. All cabins in our allotment are the same size.

Add a five-day post-trip extension to Easter Island from $3,395 per person, double occu-pancy. Or extend your trip to Chile’s Atacama Desert with a stay at Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, another member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection.

THE M.V. VENTUS AUSTRALIS


• Stay in three spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World.

• Watch the sunrise over Uluru, and examine its ancient rock paintings with a guide.

• Sip cocktails alongside grazing kangaroos and wallabies on Kangaroo Island.

1 3 D AY S F R O M $ 1 3 , 4 9 5



Above: Travelers sit down to dinner with a view of Uluru at Longitude 131°—a National Geographic Unique Lodge.

A U S T R A L I A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I SYDNEY, AUSTRALIATour the Sydney Opera House with a private guide, and join a cruise across Sydney Harbour.Shangri-La Hotel Sydney | Meals: Day 2: B/L

DAYS 3–5 I LIZARD ISLANDSettle into Lizard Island Resort, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World bordering the Great Barrier Reef. Delve into the reef’s bril-liant underwater world, exploring by snorkel, catamaran, motorized dinghy, and stand-up

paddleboard. National Geographic travelers are invited to embark on a private sunset cruise. Lizard Island Resort | Meals: Day 3: B/D; Days 4–5: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–8 I CAIRNS/ULURUTravel via Cairns to Longitude 131°, a NationalGeographic Unique Lodge with views of sacredUluru. In Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, examineUluru’s ancient rock paintings, and walk between the rock domes of Walpa Gorge. NationalGeographic guests enjoy an exclusive introduc-tion to outback cuisine in the lodge kitchen. Shangri-La Hotel Sydney; The Marina, Cairns; Longitude 131° Meals: Day 6: B; Days 7–8: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 9–13 I KANGAROO ISLAND/SYDNEYSpend three nights at the elegant Southern Ocean Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge perched atop coastal cliffs. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the property, as well as a five-course "taste of Kangroo Island" dining experience. Join lodge naturalists to walk coast-al trails, observe sea lions, and discover unique geology; and sip sundowners alongside grazing kangaroos and wallabies. Fly home via Sydney. Southern Ocean Lodge; Shangri-La Hotel Sydney Meals: Day 9: B/D; Days 10–11: B/L/D Daily; Days 12–13: B Daily

INFORMATION

This trip includes stays at three National Geographic Unique Lodges: Southern Ocean Lodge (pictured above), Lizard Island Resort, and Longitude 131°.


EXPEDITION TEAM


Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Pricing for parties of two can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price. The internal flights are an additional $1,800–$2,500 per person(subject to change).



• Go on treks in search of chimpanzees, gorillas, and golden monkeys.

• Visit a chimpanzee sanctuary established in association with the Jane Goodall Institute.

• Meet with scientists at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund’s Karisoke Research Center.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 1 3 , 7 9 5

Land Moderate

2019 Dates: July 16–26 | Aug. 20–30 Sept. 3–13 Dec. 29, 2019–Jan. 8, 2020

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Wildlife biologist, author, and educator Lucy Spelman will join the December 2019 departure.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $3,900. All primate-tracking permits are included. Airfare is not included in the price. The internal flight is an additional $330 per person (subject to change).

Please note: A U.S. Department of State travel advisory is currently in effect for Rwanda and Uganda (travel.state.gov).

Above: These endangered moutain gorillas are two of the roughly 1000 that remain in the wilds of Central Africa.

T H E G R E A T A P E SO F U G A N D A A N D R WA N D A

DAYS 1–2 I ENTEBBE, UGANDA/ NGAMBA ISLANDVisit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Ngamba Island, established in association with the Jane Goodall Institute. Later, explore the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. Lake Victoria Serena Resort | Meals: Days 2–8: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 3–5 I KIBALE NATIONAL PARK/ QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARKIn Kibale National Park, meet with National

Geographic grantee Emily Otali and search for chimpanzees; black-and-white colobus, red-tailed, and blue monkeys; and the rare l’Hoest’s monkey. Explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, and go on safari to look for elephants, lions, and Ugandan kobs before an afternoon wildlife cruise. Kyaninga Lodge; Kyambura Gorge Lodge

DAYS 7–8 I BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARKJourney to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to roughly half the world’s remaining moun-tain gorillas. Head into the forest to see these gentle giants, observing one of the planet’s most endangered creatures up close. Bwindi Lodge

DAYS 9–11 I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, RWANDA/KIGALIMeet experts at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund’s Karisoke Research Center to learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, where National Geographic grantee Dian Fossey conducted research on gorillas for 18 years. Spend a morning searching for endangered golden monkeys with National Geographic grantee Deogratias Tuyisingize. Virunga Lodge | Meals: Day 9–10: B/L/D Daily; Day 11: B/L


• Meet Louise Leakey or Fidelis Masao for a tour of the fossil-rich Olduvai Gorge.

• A wildlife biologist accompanies each trip to interpret the flora and fauna we encounter.

• Learn firsthand about Maasai culture during a private visit.

9 D AY S F R O M $ 9,1 9 5

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Clockwise from above: Travelers on safari marvel at a cheetah family at rest; Wildebeests cross Tanzanian grasslands on their annual migration;A Maasai warrior springs into the air during a traditional dance; a stilted suite at Sayari Camp.

O N S A F A R I : TA N Z A N I A ' S G R E AT M I G R AT I O N

DAY 1 I ARUSHA, TANZANIAArrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to our hotel. Rivertrees Country Inn

DAY 2 I LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARKDrive to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its elephants, hippos, giraffes, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions. Set out on our first safari to discover East Africa’s legendary wild-life amid the stunning Rift Valley landscape.Plantation Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARKOn a morning game drive, observe the wildlife that congregates on the shores of Lake Manyara.Enjoy a guided walk around the lodge’s grounds and gardens before hiking to a nearby coffee plantation. Plantation Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4 I NGORONGORO CRATERAfter breakfast, travel to the Ngorongoro Highlands, where we will meet with Maasai community members. Far from the tourist circuit, enjoy a rare opportunity to view traditional singing and dancing, witness an initiation ritual, and learn about this fascinating culture from the village chief and his wives. After lunch, descend 2,000 feet to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, where volcanic slopes shelter more than 25,000 animals. Observe the interactions between predator and prey; spot colorful birdlife, from superb starlings to crowned cranes; and track elephants, rare black rhinos, cheetahs, and more. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I NGORONGORO CRATERReturn to the crater floor for breakfast and a morning safari. Enjoy an afternoon to relax and watch the sun set over the crater from

the lodge. Tonight, National Geographic Explorer-at-Large Louise Leakey or Dr. Fidelis Masao, co-director of the Olduvai Landscape Paleoarchaeology Project, joins us for dinner and a discussion about the groundbreaking paleontological finds in the region. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I OLDUVAI GORGE/SERENGETI NATIONAL PARKDrive to the Olduvai Gorge, where, on a National Geographic–sponsored expedition in 1960, Louis and Mary Leakey discovered Homo habilis—one of the earliest members of the hu-man genus. This morning, Louise (the Leakeys’ granddaughter) or Dr. Masao will discuss the family’s legacy and ongoing work at Olduvai Gorge. Then take a private tour of the site, or accompany Dr. Masao on a walk through the area where much of his life’s research has been conducted. This afternoon, drive to our lodge in the southern Serengeti, looking for lions, giraffes, and leopards along the way. Serengeti Sopa Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–8 I SERENGETI NATIONAL PARKRise early for an optional hot-air balloon safari or a morning game drive before flying to the northern Serengeti. With luck, we will witness


2019 Dates: Mar. 4–12* | July 8–16 | July 22–30 Aug. 12–20 | Sept. 2–10 | Sept. 8–16 | Oct. 7–15 Dec. 9–17* | Dec. 30, 2019–Jan. 7, 2020*2020 Dates: Jan. 19–27* | Feb. 16–24*

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Conservationist and National Geographic Explorer Laly Lichtenfeld will join the August 5 and September 2, 2019 departures.


INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION These departures are photography expeditions, led by a National Geographic photographer, and limited to 16 travelers. Cost: from $9,695 per person, double occupancy, and subject to change.

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $2,700. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $450–$775 per person (subject to change).

Add a six-day post-trip extension to track gorillas in Rwanda from $7,395 per person, dou-ble occupancy; or a four-day post-trip safari in Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park from $3,295 per person, double occupancy.

the dramatic river crossings of the wildebeest migration. Great herds of wildebeests and zebras eye predators warily as crocodile snouts break the surface of the Mara River. Take in the region’s spectacular array of wildlife on morn-ing and afternoon game drives. On our last evening, gather for a candlelit farewell dinner in the bush. Sayari Camp | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 9 I SERENGETI/ARUSHAAfter a final early-morning safari, fly back to Arusha. Relax at our hotel before connecting with your flight home. Rivertrees Country Inn | Meals: B/L

In order to provide travelers with the best opportunity to witness the wildebeest migration, the Serengeti portion of the itinerary differs by season. The itinerary shown describes the July through October departures, when the wildebeests are in the northern Serengeti.

On the December through March departures, when the migration moves south, we’ll set out for the southeastern border of the Serengeti on Day 7. For the evenings of Days 6, 7, and 8, we’ll stay at Lake Masek Tented Camp. Here, we will go on morning and afternoon game drives and take an off-track safari in the Ndutu area. See our website for details.

MIGRATION SEASONSIN THE SERENGETI

*These departures follow a modified itinerary. See box at left.


• Encounter a profusion of wildlife while on safari in three conservation areas.

• Visit the Noloholo Environmental Center, directed by a National Geographic Explorer.

• Picnic on the floor of the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater.

9 D AY S F R O M $ 8 , 7 9 5

Private Light


Above: An elephant takes the beaten path in Tarangire National Park.

T A N Z A N I A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

INFORMATION


EXPEDITION TEAM

Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round except in April and May, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you. Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available uponrequest. Pricing for parties of two can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $640 per person (subject to change).

DAYS 1–3 I ARUSHA, TANZANIA/ TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARKArrive in Arusha and travel to Tarangire National Park. If your trip is between June and September, stop at the Noloholo Environmental Center*, headed by National Geographic Explorer Laly Lichtenfeld and run in partnership with the local Maasai people. Then settle into your camp in the heart of Tarangire National Park. Encounter herds of elephants, zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests on game drives—and keep

your eyes out for prowling cheetahs and leopards. Arusha Coffee Lodge; Oliver’s Camp Meals: Days 2 & 3: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 4–5 I NGORONGORO CRATEREnjoy a picnic breakfast on the floor of World Heritage–listed Ngorongoro Crater, the largest non-flooded caldera in the world. Embark on a safari through this green-walled wildlife paradise, home to some 25,000 animals. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–9 I SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK/ ARUSHAFly to the vast plains of the Serengeti and check into your tented suite. Spend the next three days exploring Serengeti National Park on game drives, and search for crocodiles and hippos on the banks of the Mara River. Or see the majesty of the savanna from the sky on an optional hot-air balloon ride. Return to Arusha to catch your flight home. Sayari Camp; Rivertrees Country Inn | Meals: Days 6–8: B/L/D Daily; Day 9: B/L


*The visit to the Noloholo Environmental Center is offered from June to September. Travelers in other months will travel directly to Tarangire National Parkand enjoy an additional game drive.


• Encounter Madagascar’s fascinating endemic species with a wildlife biologist.

• Visit the field station of primatologist and National Geographic grantee Patricia Wright.

• Explore Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, site of National Geographic–funded lemur research.

1 3 D AY S F R O M $ 6 ,9 9 5

Land Moderate/Strenuous

2019 Dates: July 1–13 | Aug. 5–17 | Sept. 2–14Sept. 16–28 | Oct. 7–19

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Biologist, author, and National Geographic Explorer Mireya Mayor will join the August departure.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $2,000. Airfare is not included in the price. The internal flight is an additional $325 per person (subject to change).

Above: The curious gaze of a ring-tailed lemur in Madagascar

M A D A G A S C A R W I L D L I F E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–3 I ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR/ ANDASIBE-MANTADIA NATIONAL PARKHike amid the lush lianas and fragrant orchids of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, on the lookout for some of the reserve’s 14 lemur species. Observe lemurs rescued from the pet trade, and seek out colorful chameleons and frogs on a guided night stroll. Le Louvre Hôtel & Spa; Vakona Forest Lodge | Meals: Days 2–9: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 4–7 I ANALAMAZAOTRA RESERVE/ RANOMAFANA NATIONAL PARKRise early to track the indri lemur through Analamazaotra Reserve. Venture into the thick forests of Ranomafana National Park, where National Geographic grantee and primatologist Patricia Wright discovered the golden bamboo lemur. Visit the Centre ValBio and hear from staff about Patricia's latest research. Plumeria Hotel; Hotel Thermal Ranomafana

DAYS 8–9 I ISALO NATIONAL PARKHead across the savanna toward Isalo National Park, stopping en route at paper-making and weaving workshops. Discover the dramatic sandstone canyons and gem-colored pools of Isalo and encounter endemic species, such as the Benson’s rock thrush. Isalo Rock Lodge

DAYS 10–13 I TSIMANAMPETSOTSA NATIONAL PARK/ANTANANARIVOSet out from our oceanfront lodge to explore Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, where National Geographic has funded research on lemurs. Wander among Dr. Seuss–like baobab trees and spot some of the park’s 100-plus bird species. In Antananarivo, visit the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga before flying home. Anakao Ocean Lodge and Spa; Relais des Plateaux Meals: Days 10–12: B/L/D Daily; Day 13: B


• Set out on safari in three wildlife conservancies known for high concentrations of megafauna.

• Meet National Geographic grantees working to protect Kenyan wildlife.

• Interact with orphaned elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 1 0 ,9 9 5

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Clockwise from above: A pair of black rhinos roam the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy; A traveler frames a magnificent African elephant; A lion family relaxes in the Masai Mara; a tented room at Lewa Safari Camp.

K E N YA : U P C L O S E W I T HE L E P H A N T S , R H I N O S , A N D B I G C A T S

DAY 1 I NAIROBI, KENYAArrive in Nairobi and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Tamarind Tree Hotel

DAY 2 I AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARKFly to Amboseli National Park, one of the best places in Africa to spot elephants. Enjoy a safari en route to our sustainable safari lodge, set within view of Mount Kilimanjaro—the world’s highest freestanding peak. After lunch and time to settle into your spacious tent, set

out on an afternoon safari, on the lookout for cheetahs, lions, zebras, and other creatures scattered across the endless savanna. Tortilis Camp | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARKGo on safari in Amboseli and learn about elephant behavior while seeking out resident herds. Spend an afternoon at the Amboseli Elephant Research Project, home to the longest running study of wild elephants in the world. Its director, Cynthia Moss, has received support from the National Geographic Society for her work. Meet with project researchers to hear about their time in the field observing herd dynamics and collecting biological samples. Tortilis Camp | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4 I LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCYFly to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, 62,000 acres of golden savanna dotted on the northern flanks of Mount Kenya. Considered a model in the conservation field, this healthy habitat is home to a number of rare species, including the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, and African wild dogs. Lewa and the neighboring Borana Conservancy also harbor roughly 15 percent of Kenya’s entire rhino population. Settle into your tented camp; then set out on safari to

track these and countless other creatures.Lewa Safari Camp | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCYIf you wish, rise at daybreak for a birding walk, spotting avian species flitting and fluttering amid the grasses. Or see Lewa from a different perspective on a thrilling bushwalk. Tread in the tracks of lions, rhinos, and leopards; spot tiny members of the ecosystem; and learn to identify local flora. Later, meet with members of Lewa’s award-winning security team, whose effective patrolling of the reserve has ensured that not a single rhino has been poached in the past three years (to date). If you wish, join the team and their highly effective tracking dogs on a simulated patrol of the conservancy. Lewa Safari Camp | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCYAfter breakfast, choose an excursion: venture into the Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve and traverse hanging bridges in the canopy for a chance to spot black-and-white colobus monkeys; then take a refreshing swim beneath a waterfall. Or delve into Samburu culture during a village visit, and see how traditional dwellings are constructed. This evening, enjoy another safari, followed by a festive dinner in the bush.Lewa Safari Camp | Meals: B/L/D



2019 Dates: July 7–16 | Oct. 15–24

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Naturalist, photographer, and National Geographic Explorer Washington Wachira will join the July 7, September 16, and October 15, 2019 departures.

INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement from $3,500. Airfare is notincluded in the price. The internal flights are an additional $1,320 per person (subject to change).

Please note: We are currently monitoring travel alerts for Nairobi, Kenya. We expect to operate this trip as planned, but will continue to closely monitor events in the region and will alter the itinerary if necessary.

DAY 7 I LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY/ MASAI MARATake a final safari in Lewa en route to the airstrip, then fly to the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve. Settle into our stunning safari camp, located on the edge of the Soit Ololol Escarpment in a private concession that shares an unfenced border with Masai Mara—but is free of the reserve’s crowds. After lunch, get an intimate look at the area’s legendary land-scapes on an open-vehicle wildlife drive. andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I MASAI MARAAt first light, head out on safari to track the animals that traversed the area during the night. View plains game such as Thomson's and Grant's gazelles, topi and eland antelopes—as well as their stealthy predators—at one of their most active times of the day. This area is reput-ed to have one of the highest concentrations of predators in all of Africa. Glimpse large pods of hippos submerged up to their nostrils in the Mara River and crocodiles sunbathing on the shore. Then set out on an evening safari along the shores of the Mara River. andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I MASAI MARAThis morning we meet with researchers from the Anne K. Taylor Fund, an organization that works with local Maasai communities to con-serve area wildlife by reducing human-animal conflict with support from National Geographic's Big Cats Initiative. Learn about ongoing proj-ects, like the effort to fortify bomas to prevent predators from attacking livestock, resulting in revenge poaching. Later, set off on one last safari, then toast our adventure during a farewell dinner under a starlit sky.andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp Meals: B/L/D

DAY 10 I NAIROBIReturn to Nairobi to hear how National Geographic grantee Washington Wachira trains emerging conservationists through his Youth Conservation Awareness Programme. Visit the Giraffe Centre, where the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe is bred in captivity before being released into the wild. Continue to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, featured in the September 2011 issue of National Geographic magazine. The organization is the world’s most successful rescue and rehabilitation program for orphaned elephants. Enjoy the opportunity to shadow the center's caretakers and get up close to the elephants during their afternoon feeding. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B/L


• Ride a camel across Saharan dunes at sunset, and overnight in a comfortable tented camp.

• Delve into Berber culture at Kasbah du Toubkal, a National Geographic Unique Lodge.

• Enjoy dinner and a Sufi musical performance at a traditional Moroccan home.

1 2 D AY S F R O M $ 7,9 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: Mar. 16–27 | Mar. 30–Apr. 10 Apr. 13–24 | May 11–22 | Sept. 28–Oct. 9 Oct. 12–23 | Oct. 23–Nov. 62020 Date: Mar. 14–25

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Archaeologist Chloé Capel will join the October 5, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION

These departures are designated as photography expeditions, led by a National Geographic photographer, and are limited to 16 travelers. Cost: from $8,495 per person, double occupancy, and subject to change.


Above: The adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou glows during the golden hour.

M O R O C C O :L E G E N D A R Y C I T I E S A N D T H E S A H A R A

DAYS 1–3 I CASABLANCA, MOROCCO/ MARRAKECHStroll elegant Casablanca before heading to Marrakech, Morocco’s “pearl of the south.” Explore the city’s splendid mosques, palaces, and gardens, and delve into the labyrinthine medina. Kenzi Tower Hotel; Es Saadi Marrakech Resort | Meals: Day 1: L/D; Day 2: B/L/D; Day 3: B/L

DAYS 4–6 I HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS/ AÏT BEN HADDOUExperience Berber hospitality at Kasbah du Toubkal, a National Geographic Unique Lodge perched in the High Atlas Mountains. Go hiking amid the surrounding peaks, sip mint tea in a family home, and soak in the lodge’s tradition-al hammam. Later, tour the ancient fortified village of Aït Benhaddou. Kasbah du Toubkal; Ksar Ighnda | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 7–8 I DADES GORGE/SAHARA DESERTSet out on the fabled Road of 1,000 Kasbahs, passing spectacular rock formations, oases, and rose plantations, and stopping at small villages. Walk the dramatic Dades Gorge, and ride camelback into the Sahara to watch the sun set, then settle into our comfortable tented camp.Xaluca Dades; Bivouac Tented Berber Camp Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 9–12 I FEZ/VOLUBILIS AND MEKNÈSDiscover the magnificent imperial city of Fez, and take an optional excursion to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, and to Morocco’s 17th-century capital, Meknès. Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a traditional Moroccan home, accompanied by Sufi musical entertainment.Riad Maison Bleue and Spa | Meals: Day 9: B/L/D; Day 10: B/L; Day 11: B/D; Day 12: B

Kasbah du Toubkal



• Visit six UNESCO World Heritage sites with a private guide.

• Sip traditional mint tea in the home of a Berber family.

• Stay in the Kasbah du Toubkal, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.Private Light/Moderate


Above: A traveler pauses under the intricate tiled arch of an old madrasa in Marrakech.

M O R O C C O P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I CASABLANCA, MOROCCO/FEZFrom Casablanca, travel to Fez and discover the charms of old and new Fez on a full-day city tour with a private guide. Riad Maison Bleue Meals: Day 2: B/D

DAY 3 I MEKNÈS/VOLUBILIS/RABATJoin your private guide to explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites: medieval Meknès and the Roman ruins of Volubilis. In Rabat, see the ocean-

front Kasbah of Ouadaya and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V. Villa Mandarine | Meals: B/L

DAYS 4–5 I HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINSJourney into the High Atlas Mountains to Kasbah du Toubkal—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World built from the ruins of a medieval kasbah—and set out on a range of hikes and donkey rides. National Geographic guests are exclusively invited on a village walk with a local staff member, followed by a tradi-tional mint tea in his or her home. Kasbah du Toubkal | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 6 I AÏT BEN HADDOUDiscover the opulent interiors or Kasbah Telouet, a deserted fortification on an age-old caravan route. Wander the enchanting adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou at your own pace.Riad Ksar Ighnda | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–9 I MARRAKECHIn legendary Marrakech, listen to storytellers, warm up to fire-eaters, and delight in the beguiling music of snake charmers in Djemaa el Fna, the city’s main square. See the high-lights of the city on a full-day tour. La Villa des Orangers Hôtel | Meals: Day 7: B/L; Days 8–9: B

INFORMATION

Kasbah du Toubkal


EXPEDITION TEAM


Dates: This is a private expedition offered from January through June and from September through December, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Pricing for parties of two or four can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price.

9 D AY S F R O M $ 4 , 5 9 5based on 6 people traveling together


• Hear a unique dual narrative from our Israeli and Palestinian guides.

• Meet Israeli and Palestinian politicans for an insider’s view of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

• Explore ancient Caesarea Maritima with National Geographic Explorer Beverly Goodman.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 6 ,9 9 5

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Clockwise from above: The imposing facade of the Tower of David in Jerusalem; A woman effortlessly floats in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea;The iconic Dome of the Rock on Temple Mount in Jerusalem; Hasidic Jewish men gather in prayer at the Western Wall in Jerusalem.

T H E H O LY L A N D : P A S T, P R E S E N T, A N D F U T U R E

DAY 1 I TEL AVIV, ISRAEL/JERUSALEMArrive in Tel Aviv and transfer to Jerusalem. Relax at the hotel before our reception and welcome dinner tonight. American Colony Hotel | Meals: D

DAY 2 I JERUSALEMBegin the day on the Temple Mount, capped by the shining cupola of the Dome of the Rock. Speak with an imam from the Al-Aqsa Mosque, then meet a rabbi at the Western Wall. Later,

join a local pastor at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, home to the tomb of Jesus, according to tradition. Ascend the Mount of Olives, and take in a panoramic view of the domes, spires, and golden stones of Jerusalem’s old city. American Colony Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I JERUSALEMVenture into the ruins of the City of David and speak with its Israeli administrators, then meet residents of the nearby Palestinian neighbor-hood who oppose the excavations. Get an insider’s perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from an Israeli politician, and travel to Ramallah for the rare opportunity of hearing from a high-ranking Palestinian Authority official. American Colony Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAY 4 I JERUSALEMTrace the turbulent history of the birth of the state of Israel. Meet with a Holocaust survivor at the moving Holocaust memorial of Yad Vashem, then travel to Ein Kerem, where Christian tra-dition says John the Baptist was born. Hear our Israeli and Palestinian guides tell their divergent narratives of the village’s role in Israel’s 1948 War of Independence. Tonight, gather for a discus-sion with Israeli and Palestinian peace activists from the Bereaved Families Forum. American Colony Hotel | Meals: B/D

DAY 5 I BETHLEHEM AND THE WEST BANKTravel to the Gush Etzion settlement bloc to hear the viewpoints of Israeli settlers. Continue to Bethlehem and visit Manger Square; then, at the Church of the Nativity, descend into the cave revered by many as the birthplace ofJesus. Walk through a nearby Palestinian refugee camp, and learn how murals and graffiti have been used to depict the refugees’ struggles. Stop at Herodion, a volcano-shaped hill and fortress built by Herod the Great. Over dinner, take in a musical performance by a group of Israeli and Palestinian musicians.American Colony Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I JERUSALEM/JERICHO/DEAD SEAMeet with an environmentalist from Friends of the Earth Middle East, whose efforts to foster Arab-Jewish cooperation through environmental stewardship were featured in the special April 2010 “Water” issue of National Geographic magazine. View the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum, and then drive down through the Judean Desert to Jericho to visit the archaeological site of Tel Jericho. Settle into our hotel, located in the Ein Gedi kibbutz on the shores of the Dead Sea, and learn about the kibbutz movement. Enjoy time on your own to


2019 Dates: Apr. 6–16 | Sept. 14–24 | Nov. 9–19 Nov. 23–Dec. 3 | Dec. 28, 2019–Jan. 7, 20202020 Date: Mar. 14–24

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Educator and National Geographic Explorer Aziz Abu Sarah will join the December 2019 departure.

Author Yuval Ben-Ami writes for the Hebrew edition of National Geographic magazine and has published two travel books about Israel. Yuval will join the remaining departures.


INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION


Please note: A U.S. Department of State travel advisory for Israel and the West Bank is currently in effect (travel.state.gov).

Add a four-day extension to Petra, Jordan from $2,495 per person, double occupancy.

float in the Dead Sea, stroll the hotel’s botani-cal garden, or enjoy an optional spa treatment. Ein Gedi Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I JORDAN RIVER VALLEY/TIBERIASSoar up the flank of Masada in a gondola and explore King Herod’s 2,000-year-old moun-taintop refuge. Follow the Jordan Valley north to the Roman city of Bet She’an to see its remarkably preserved amphitheater, baths, and column-lined streets. Along the way, stop to dip your feet in the Jordan River, where Christian pilgrims come to be baptized. The Scots Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I GALILEEVisit Caesarea Philippi, a center of worship from the Hellenic age to the early Christian era. Follow a scenic trail to the Banias waterfall, or enjoy a short hike through Tel Dan National Park. Take a boat ride across the Sea of Galilee from Tiberias to Capernaum, where Jesus and many Apostles lived and preached. The Scots Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I NAZARETH/JAFFA/TEL AVIVHear the perspective of an Israeli Arab Chris-tian on the way to Nazareth, and visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, one of the largest

churches in the Middle East. On an excursion to the mountaintop village of Beit Jann, discover the secretive traditions of the Druze people, and enjoy lunch with a Druze family in their home. Travel toward the Mediterranean coast and explore picturesque Jaffa, a strategic port town dating back to the Bronze Age. Get acquainted with the bustling city of Tel Aviv in the evening.Dan Tel Aviv Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAYS 10–11 I CAESAREA MARITIMA/ TEL AVIVFollow the coast north to Caesarea Maritima, Herod’s harbor city, and visit the ruins with geo-archaeologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Beverly Goodman. Transfer to the airport the next morning for your flight home. Dan Tel Aviv Hotel | Meals: Day 10: B/D; Day 11: B


• Examine early Homo erectus skulls with a National Geographic grantee.

• Step into the spectacular rock-hewn cave monastery at Vardzia.

• Learn about Georgia’s ancient wine-making methods from a local vintner.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 5 ,9 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

Clockwise from above: Khor Virap, framed by Biblical Mount Ararat; exploring the mountain roads in the highlands of Armenia;Two travelers wonder the cobbled streets of Old Tbilisi; the remarkable Vardzia Cave Monastery.

G E O R G I A A N D A R M E N I A : C R O S S R O A D S O F C O N T I N E N T S

DAYS 1–2 I YEREVAN, ARMENIATake a walking tour of Yerevan, Armenia’s capital and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the word. Wind your way through the charming old town; admire the monumental architecture of Republic Square; and climb up the Cascade, a grand stairway adorned by manicured gardens. Visit a wind instrument studio and hear demonstrations of traditional instruments, then pay your respects

to victims of the Armenian Genocide at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex.Grand Hotel Yerevan | Meals: Day 2: B/L/D

DAY 3 I KHOR VIRAPVenture south to the verdant pastures of the Ararat Valley, arriving at Khor Virap—an early Christian monastery dedicated to Armenia’s patron, Saint Gregory the Illuminator. Visit the dungeon where the pious Gregory was held prisoner for 13 years by Armenian King Tiridates III until, as the legend goes, Gregory cured the pagan king of illness and converted him to Christianity. Tiridates then imposed the religion on his people, and Armenia became the world’s first Christian nation. Back in the city, enjoy a performance by the Nubar Folk Ensemble and spend some time with the traditional song and dance troupe.Grand Hotel Yerevan | Meals: B/L

DAYS 4–5 I VARDZIA, GEORGIADrive towards Georgia, stopping in the town of Gyumri for a lunch of freshly caught fish and Armenian flatbread called lavash. Explore the Vardzia cave monastery, a dramatic rock-cut fortress built in the 12th century as a strong-hold against the Mongols. Join a local historian for a tour of the ancient wine-producing village

of Chachkari, where the imprints of centuries-old wine presses can still be seen in the chalky cliffs. Enjoy a meal at the farmhouse of a local chef, and wander through the megalithic, lichen-covered ruins of Saro village. Visit a darbazi, a subterranean home typical of the region. Vardzia Resort | Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/L

DAY 6 I BORJOMIStop at the Silk Road city of Akhaltsikhe en route to Borjomi. Tour the fairy-tale-like old town with a local historian, then enjoy a wine tasting and talk with a vintner about ancient natural wine-making methods. In Borjomi, a beautiful resort town nestled into the folds of the lush Borjomi Gorge, taste Georgian mineral waters and learn about the unique qualities of this sought-after tonic, one of the country’s major exports.Hotel Borjomi Likani | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I BORJOMI/STEP’ANTSMINDA Explore the tranquil gardens of the regal Romanov Palace, a summer retreat for Russian royalty; and visit the Borjomi Mineral Water Park, where mineral springs were discovered over one thousand years ago. Head towards Step’antsminda (formerly known as Kazbegi) in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, stopping at


2019 Dates: Sept. 13–23 | Oct. 18–282020 Dates: May 15–25 | June 5–15

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Archaeologist and editor Kristin Romey will join the September 13, 2019 departure.

Call or visit our website for the full itineraries, inclusions, and more.

INFORMATION


a contemporary arts center to have lunch with local artists. Continue along the spectacular Georgian Military Highway, a centuries-old road that winds through mountainous land-scapes dotted with feudal fortresses and the occasional herd of sheep.Rooms Hotel Kazbegi | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I STEP’ANTSMINDAFrom the stunning valley town of Step’antsminda, set out to explore the environs of Gergeti Glacier. Drive to Gergeti village and ride a 4×4 vehicle to the 14th-century Holy Trinity Church, or hike up to the mountain-framed church with a guide. Visit a local family in the tiny village of Tsdo and learn to cook up khinkali, a savory dumpling filled with meat and spices. Later, head to Sno Valley to meet an artisan carpenter at his studio.Rooms Hotel Kazbegi | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I TBILISITravel south to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. At the Georgian National Museum, marvel at some of the earliest known hominin remains found outside of Africa and meet a member of the team who discovered them, led by museum director and National Geographic grantee David Lordkipanidze. Take a walking tour of

the art nouveau Sololaki district with a local architect, and enjoy dinner at the charming Cafe Littera at the Writers’ House of Georgia, an early 20th-century mansion turned cultural center.Tbilisi Marriott Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 10–11 I DMANISI/TBILISIJoin an expert archaeologist at the site of Dmanisi, where the 1.8-million-year-old Homo erectus skulls on display at the Georgian National Museum were unearthed. Back in Tbilisi, explore its enchanting old town, a labyrinth of narrow streets housing Arabic and European influenced buildings. Round off the trip with a special farewell dinner: a six-course Georgian feast with regional wine pairings, accompanied by a story-telling tamada, or toastmaster, and folk performances.Tbilisi Marriott Hotel | Meals: Day 10: B/L/D; Day 11: B


• Journey across Russia on one of the world’s most legendary railways.

• Sip tea at a family home in the village of Listvyanka, perched along the shores of Lake Baikal.

• Learn about the history of Russian space exploration during a talk by a cosmonaut.

1 6 D AY S F R O M $ 2 0 ,9 9 5

Train Light

Clockwise from above: The kremlin and turrets of St. Basil's Cathedral act as colorful bookends to Moscow's Red Square; The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Expressskirts a lake shoreline; Young Mongolians don traditional 13th-century garb in Ulaanbaatar; The sun casts reflections onto the glassy surface of Lake Baikal.

T R A N S - S I B E R I A N R A I L E X P E D I T I O N

DAY 1 I VLADIVOSTOK, RUSSIAArrive in Vladivostok and check in to our hotel. Meet fellow travelers at a welcome dinner this evening. Lotte Hotel Vladivostok | Meals: D

DAY 2 I VLADIVOSTOKAs a strategic naval outpost, Vladivostok was closed to most of the world from World War II until the end of the Cold War. Get acquainted with this modern city on a tour that includes the brightly painted railway station and Our

Lady Grieving Orthodox Church. See the Pacific Navy War Memorial and the steamboat Krasny Vympel, take in views of the city and its bay from the Eagle’s Nest observation platform, and stroll the historic Vladivostok Naval Cemetery. This evening, climb aboard our luxury train and set off on our journey across Russia. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express through Day 13 | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I KHABAROVSKExplore the lively squares of Khabarovsk and visit the Natural History Museum by the Amur River. Learn about the flora and fauna of the region, and see artifacts from the indigenous tribes of the Goldi and the Gilyak. Meals: B/L/D DAYS 4–5 I ON TRAIN/SIBERIAAs the train slips past rolling hills and Siberian villages of log houses, relax with a book, attend a talk by our expert, or simply watch the remote and ever-changing countryside pass by. On our second day on board, we enter the sweeping Mongolian steppe. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I ULAANBAATAR, MONGOLIADepart Mongolia’s capital city this morning for nearby Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Enjoy the alpine scenery, watch a demonstration of

Mongolian horseback riding, and visit a tradi-tional ger (felt tent). This evening, enjoy dinner and a performance of Mongolian throat sing-ing and traditional dance before we reboard our train and continue on our way back into Russia. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I ULAN-UDE, RUSSIAThe train rolls through the valley of the Selenge River, which flows into Lake Baikal. Stop in Ulan-Ude, the capital of the Buryat Republic and once a major trading post between China and Irkutsk. Pay a visit to a village of Old Believers, a group descended from 17th-century religious exiles whose fascinating culture has changed little over the centuries. Watch a performance of their unique choral music. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I LAKE BAIKALArrive at beautiful Lake Baikal, called the sacred sea by locals and named a World Heritage site by UNESCO. The lake basin holds about 20 percent of the world’s unfrozen fresh water. A sacred site for Buryat shamans, Lake Baikal’s Shaman Rock is steeped in legend. Our train route hugs the rocky shores and passes through 33 tunnels. Take in spectacular views from the train, and stop for a barbecue lunch on the shore. In the afternoon, explore the


2019 Dates: Aug. 4–19

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Historian George Munro has lived and studied in the former Soviet Union and travels to Russia regularly to pursue his research. He will join the August 31, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, varies by category, and is subject to change. Single supplement is from $8,495. Airfare is not included in the price.

village of Listvyanka and join a family for tea in their home. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I IRKUTSKSpend today in Irkutsk. In the early 19th century, many Russian artists, officers, and nobles were exiled here for their involvement in the Decembrist revolt. Visit the city’s historic sights, and wander through a delightful col-lection of classic Russian and Siberian cottages at the Museum of Wooden Architecture. Stop for a private bell-ringing performance, and then enjoy a private concert and champagne reception at the Decembrist House Museum. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 10–11 I ON TRAIN/NOVOSIBIRSKEnjoy a day to relax on board, taking in stunning scenery as the vast Siberian taiga unfurls. The following day, stop in Novosibirsk, Siberia’s larg-est city, to see the opera house and Lenin Square. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 12 I YEKATERINBURGArrive in Yekaterinburg, where Russia’s last tsar, Nicholas II, and his family were executed by the Bolsheviks in 1918. Visit the Romanovs’ ex-ecution site—now a church dedicated to their memory—and view the city’s ornately decorat-ed wooden houses. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 13 I KAZANToday, explore Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, perched on the banks of the Volga River. Tour the city’s kremlin, the turquoise-topped Qol Sharif Mosque, and the Peter and Paul Cathedral. Pay a visit to the Kazan Conservatory and enjoy a concert performed by its students. Then set off on a private cruise around the walls of the city’s kremlin before returning to our train to depart on the final leg of our journey. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 14–16 I MOSCOWDisembark in Moscow and take a guided stroll through Red Square at night. The following morning, explore the legendary Kremlin. Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral, and view court regalia from the Romanov dynasty at the Armory Museum. After lunch, head to the Monument to the Conquerors of Space, which sweeps some 360 feet into the sky. Delve into the history of space exploration at the recently updated Memorial Museum of Astronautics, and enjoy a specially arranged talk by a Russian cosmonaut. After breakfast the following day, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Ararat Hyatt Park Moscow | Meals: Days 14–15: B/L/D Daily, Day 16: B

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Add a three-day post-trip extension toSt. Petersburg from $2,995 per person, dou-ble occupancy.


• Venture into the ice tunnels of Langjökull glacier with an expert guide.

• Meet with a marine biologist and National Geographic grantee at a research center in Húsavik.

• Stay at the Nordic chic Hotel Húsafell, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 1 0 ,9 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: June 14–23 | July 5–14 | July 26–Aug. 4 Aug. 23–Sept. 1 | Sept. 7–16

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Geographer, author, and National Geographic Explorer M Jackson will join the July 26 and September 7, 2019 departures.


INFORMATION


Above: Stykkisholmur’s colorful houses brighten the coastline of the Snæfellsness peninsula.

Hotel Húsafell

I C E L A N D : V O L C A N O E S , G L A C I E R S , A N D W H A L E S

DAYS 1–2 I REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND/ GOLDEN CIRCLEExplore downtown Reykjavík. Set out on a trip around the legendary Golden Circle to visit the world’s oldest democratic parliament, the geo-thermal hotbed at Geysir, and the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. Canopy by Hilton Reykjavík City Centre | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L

DAYS 3–4 I LANGJÖKULL/SNÆFELLSNESSettle into Hotel Húsafell, a National Geographic

Unique Lodge where local art, cuisine, and Nordic design converge. Venture into the ice tunnels of Langjökull—Iceland’s second largest glacier—and explore the mythical Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Hotel Húsafell | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 5 I SIGLUFJÖRÐURJourney to Iceland’s northern reaches, stopping to descend into the vast Viðgelmir lava cave. Learn about traditional farm life at the Skagafjörður Heritage Museum, housed within authentic turf homes. Siglo Hotel | Meals: B/L/D DAYS 6–7 I HRÍSEY/MÝVATNGo birdwatching on the isle of Hrísey, thencontinue to majestic Goðafoss waterfall. In Mývatn, visit a geothermal power plant and encounter the powerful cascade of Dettifoss.Hotel Laxá | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 8–10 I MÝVATN/AKUREYRI/REYKJAVÍKSoak in hot springs, then wander through the geothermal terrain of Námaskarð and the lava towers of Dimmuborgir. Travel to Húsavik, Iceland’s “whale capital,” to meet with Charla Basran, a marine biologist and National Geographic grantee. Set out on a thrilling whale-watching cruise. Take a dip in the mineral- rich Blue Lagoon before flying home. Hotel Kea Meals: Day 8: B/D; Day 9: B/L/D; Day 10: B/L



• Stay at regal Ashford Castle, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.

• Visit ancient holy wells with a medieval historian.

• Learn about conservation efforts at the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 7, 2 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: June 21–30 | Aug. 30–Sept. 8 Sept. 27–Oct.6

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompan this trip. Archaeologist and National Geographic grantee Killian Driscoll will join the August 30, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION


Above: The spectacular Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction.

I R E L A N D : T A L E S A N D T R E A S U R E SO F T H E E M E R A L D I S L E

DAY 1 I DUBLIN, IRELANDExplore Dublin’s historic quarter, and join an archaeology expert at the National Museum of Ireland to examine prehistoric jewelry, weapons, and “bog bodies.” The Dylan Hotel | Meals: D

DAYS 2–3 I KILKENNYEnjoy a guided tour of medieval Kilkenny, with stops at the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle and the National Craft Gallery. Sip on a pint at a local brewery. Pembroke Kilkenny | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 4–5 I ROCK OF CASHEL/BLARNEY/ DINGLE PENINSULAVisit the Rock of Cashel and kiss the stone at Blarney Castle. Learn from a local medievalist about a National Geographic–sponsored proj-ect to preserve Ireland’s holy wells. Killarney Park Hotel | Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/ L

DAY 6 I CLIFFS OF MOHER/ BURREN NATIONAL PARKSee the Cliffs of Moher and drive through Burren National Park. Hear about the conserva-tion efforts that earned the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark a National Geographic World Legacy Award. Gregan’s Castle Hotel | Meals: B/D

DAYS 7–8 I THE BURREN/GALWAY/ CONNEMARA/COUNTY MAYOExplore vibrant Galway, and get a feel for tradi-tional farm life in Connemara. Later, settle into medieval Ashford Castle—a National Geographic Unique Lodge—and take an exclusive tour of the property with the on-site historian. Ashford Castle | Meals: Day 7: B/D; Day 8: B/L/D

DAYS 9–10 I COUNTY MAYO/DUBLINExplore the gorgeous grounds of Ashford before returning to Dublin for a private whiskey tast-ing and farewell dinner. Depart the next day. The Dylan Hotel | Meals: Day 9: B/D; Day 10: B


Ashford Castle


• Experience the Flåm Railway, one of Europe's most scenic train journeys.

• Discover the spectacular west Norwegian fjords.

• Hear about Thor Heyerdahl's seafaring expeditions from a family connection.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 9,9 9 5

Train Light/Moderate

2019 Dates: June 12–22 | June 26–July 6 July 24–Aug. 3 | Aug. 7–17

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Geographer, geologist, and conservationist David Scott Silverberg will join the June 26 and July 29, 2019 departures.


INFORMATION


Above: The Flåm Railway passes through the verdant Norwegian countryside.

N O R WAY ' S T R A I N S A N D F J O R D S

DAYS 1–2 I OSLO, NORWAYExplore Oslo’s highlights, including the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, Vigeland Park, and the Viking Ship Museum. At the Kon-Tiki Museum, meet with a family member or biographer of Thor Heyerdahl and learn about the family's seafaring adventures, chronicled in the pages of National Geographic magazine. Grand Hotel Oslo | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L

DAYS 3–6 I WESTERN FJORDSTravel aboard the world-famous Flåm Railway, descending a steep valley through 20 tun-nels to the fjord village of Flåm. Gaze out at Aurlandsfjorden from a viewing platform that floats 2,000 feet above the fjord. Visit the picturesque village of Undredal, and cruise spectacular Aurlandsfjorden, Nærøyfjorden, and Geirangerfjorden. Enjoy a special visit to the Norwegian Fjord Centre before it opens to the public. Fretheim Hotel; Hotel Union | Meals: Day 3: B/L/D; Day 4; B/L; Days 5–6: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 7–8 I TRONDHEIMTransfer to Åndalsnes and ride on the scenic Rauma Railway. Cross the historic Kylling Bridge and marvel at the 3,300-foot Trollveggen, Europe's tallest vertical rock face. Enjoy lunch in Bakklandet, a colorful neighborhood of tradi-tional wooden houses. Britannia Hotel | Meals: Day 7: B/L; Day 8: B/L/D

DAYS 9–11 I BERGEN Discover Bergen’s maritime history at Bryggen, the old wharf. Visit the former home of celebrated Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg, and step into Fantoft Stave Church. Hotel Havnekontoret Meals: Day 9: B/L; Day 10: B/L/D; Day 11: B


• Journey along three of Switzerland’s most iconic railways.

• Hear from an Alpine historian about the conquering of the Matterhorn.

• Take a cooking lesson with an Italian chef on the shores of Lake Como.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 7,9 9 5


Clockwise from above: The Glacier Express rounds the curve of the Landwasser Viaduct, some 200 feet above the valley floor; Pastel-hued villages and fishing skiffsline the shores of Lake Como; Swiss cows rest in an alpine meadow; A traveler captures the passing scenery.

S W I S S T R A I N S A N D T H E I T A L I A N L A K E S D I S T R I C T

DAY 1 I ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND/ZERMATTArrive in Zürich this morning and board a train to the charming Alpine village of Zermatt. Check in to our hotel and gather for a welcome dinner tonight. Hotel National Zermatt | Meals: D

DAY 2 I ZERMATT/ZMUTT VALLEYStart the day with a guided walk through Zer-matt. This afternoon, ride gondolas to Glacier Paradise for a fascinating walk through the in-

side of a glacier. Return to Zermatt by gondola, or opt to hike back into town. Hotel National Zermatt or Hotel Schweitzerhof Meals: B

DAY 3 I ZERMATT/GORNER GLACIERClimb aboard the Gornergrat Bahn cogwheel railway—the highest open-air train in Europe— and ascend to a summit far above Zermatt to experience one of the best viewpoints in the Alps. Admire a gorgeous vista that includes Mount Rosa, the Matterhorn, and the Gorner Glacier. Hike down past Alpine lakes toRiffelberg, where we will catch the train backto Zermatt. Pay a visit to the MatterhornMuseum, where a local mountaineer and Alpine historian will recount stories of early attempts to conquer the Matterhorn, as well as other climbing adventures. Hotel National Zermatt or Hotel SchweitzerhofMeals: B/D

DAY 4 I GLACIER EXPRESS/ST. MORITZTake your first-class seat on the world-famous Glacier Express and set off on a breathtaking journey across three high-mountain passes, over 291 bridges, and through 91 tunnels. Enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the train as we soak up magnificent vistas of skyscraping,

glacier-glazed peaks on our way to the Upper Engadin Valley. Disembark in St. Moritz and settle into our hotel for the evening. Crystal Hotel St. Moritz | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I ST. MORITZThis morning, take a funicular to the top of Muottas Muragl to admire breathtaking views of the valley below. After lunch on your own, venture outside the city to Atelier Segantini, a museum dedicated to Alpine artist Giovanni Segantini. Meet with a member of theSegantini family for a tour of the artist’s former home and workshop. Back in St. Moritz, visit a local patisserie to sample delectablechocolates during a private tasting.Crystal Hotel St. Moritz | Meals: B

DAY 6 I BERNINA PASS/POSCHIAVOToday, ride the legendary Bernina Express, the highest mountain railway in the Alps, into the heart of Italian-speaking Switzerland. Take in extraordinary views of the Morteratsch Glacier from the train’s panoramic windows as we climb to the highest point at Ospizio Bernina, 7,578 feet above sea level. Descend to the town of Poschiavo, where we meet a local guide for a tour of its charming historic center. Return to St.


2019 Dates: June 9–18 | June 16–25 | June 23–July 2 July 7–16 | July 21–30 | Aug. 4–13 | Aug. 18–27Sept. 8–17

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Writer and broadcaster Tim Jepson will join the July 7 and 21 departures.


INFORMATION


Moritz via the Bernina Express late this afternoon. Crystal Hotel St. Moritz | Meals: B/D

DAY 7 I ST. MORITZ/CERNOBBIOA spectacular drive through Alpine valleys brings us into the Italian Lake District. The countryside is dotted with villas in hues of terra-cotta, pink, ochre, and gold—strewn with tropical vegetation and lush gardens. Our destination is the lovely village of Cernobbio, perched on the western shore of the vast and beautiful Lake Como. Settle into a historic 19th-century villa overlooking the lake. Villa Flori | Meals: B/L

DAY 8 I LAKE COMOSpend the day exploring the treasures of Lake Como. Board a private ferry for a picturesque ride across the lake to Varenna. Behold a pan-orama of colorful waterside villages andelegant estates, fringed by palms and pines and backed by soaring mountains. Learn secrets of Italian cooking during a demonstra-tion by a local chef, followed by a lunch washed down with local wine.Villa Flori | Meals: B/L

DAY 9 I LAKE COMOSoak in the beauty of Lake Como’s lakeside towns. Visit Villa del Balbianello, first founded in the 13th century as a Cistercian monastery and later owned by Italian explorer Guido Monzino. Continue to the delightful town of Bellagio and explore at leisure. Discover Como's historic center, its sunny piazzas, and the Como Cathedral on a private tour. Later, relax on the hotel’s terrace, taking in the view before we gather to celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner in the home of a local family. Villa Flori | Meals: B/D

DAY 10 I MILANAfter breakfast, transfer to the Milan airport for your flight home.Meals: B


• Tour the Uffizi Gallery with an art historian, and examine Roman ruins with an archaeologist.

• Enjoy a private, after-hours visit to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice.

• Stay at an enchanting 13th-century castello in the Tuscan countryside.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 6 ,9 9 5

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2019 Dates: Apr. 12–21 | May 24–June 2June 14–23 | Sept. 6–15 | Sept. 27–Oct. 6 | Oct. 18–27

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Archaeologist Janet Duncan Jones will join the May 24, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

These departures are photography expeditions, led by a National Geographic photographer, and limited to 16 travelers. Cost: from $7,995 per person, double occupancy, and subject to change.


Add a four-day extension to the stunning Amalfi Coast from $3,295 per person, double occupancy.

Above: Traffic on Venice’s Grand Canal subsides at sunset.

I TA LY: R E N A I S S A N C E C I T I E S A N D T U S C A N L I F E

DAYS 1–2 I VENICE, ITALYTransfer by motorboat to our hotel overlook-ing Venice’s famous Grand Canal. Tour the “floating city,” stroll the Piazza San Marco, and cross the iconic Rialto Bridge. Enjoy a private, after-hours visit to the stunning St. Mark's Basilica.Venezia Palazzo Barocci | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/D

DAYS 3–4 I FLORENCE/LUCCA AND PISAExplore Florence on a private tour, and dine in

the home of a Florentine family. The following day, discover medieval Lucca and climb Pisa’s leaning tower; or join an art historian for a special visit to Florence’s Uffizi Gallery. Gallery Hotel Art | Meals: Day 3: B/L/D; Day 4: B

DAYS 5–6 I TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDESettle into the enchanting 13th-century castello of the Guicciardini family—our home for two nights. Enjoy lunch and a wine tasting at the renowned Badia a Coltibuono estate. Castello di Gargonza | Meals: Day 5: B/L/D; Day 6: B/D

DAYS 7–10 I SIENNA/ROMEDiscover timeless Siena before traveling south to Rome. Explore the ruins of the Colosseum, then stroll the Roman Forum. Join archaeolo-gist Valerie Higgins—recently featured in the National Geographic documentary series The Story of God—for a special visit to the Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Miranda. Peruse the Vatican’s famed museums and visit St. Peter's Square. Rose Garden Palace | Meals: Day 7: B/L/D;Day 8: B/L; Day 9: B/D; Day 10: B


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Anthropologist and archae-ologist Ana Pinto will join the June, September, and October 2, 2019 departures.

H U M A N O R I G I N S : S O U T H W E S T F R A N C E A N D N O R T H E R N S P A I N

• Explore Atapuerca, where Europe’s oldest known hominin fossils were unearthed.

• Enjoy a specially arranged visit to the International Centre for Cave Art.

• Discover Castel-Merle's prehistoric stone shelters with an archaeologist.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 6 ,9 9 5

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2019 Dates: June 5–14 | Sept. 11–20 Oct. 2–11 | Oct. 9–18


INFORMATION


Above: Visitors get an up-close view of the breathtaking images found at the Cave of Altamia.

DAY 1 I MADRID, SPAINArrive in Madrid and take a walking tour of the city. Gran Melia Fenix Hotel | Meals: D

DAYS 2–4 I CANTABRIA CAVES/ SAN SEBASTIANIn the Cantabria region, examine the Atapuerca archaeological site. Then encounter some of the oldest artistic representations in human history at Puente Viesgo. Explore Las Monedas Cave, the Altamira Museum, and Hornos de la

Peña Cave. Spend a night in beautiful San Sebastián. Parador de Gil Blas; Silken Amara Plaza | Meals: Days 2–3: B/L/D Daily; Day 4: B

DAYS 5–6 I SAINT ÉMILION/VÉZÈRE VALLEYTour Saint-Émilion, then continue to the Dordogne region and join Christine Desdemaines-Hugon—an expert on Paleolithic art—to tour the National Museum of Prehistory. Later, exam-ine the sculpted frieze at Cap Blanc and the polychrome paintings of Font-de-Gaume. Hostellerie La Roseraie | Meals: B/D Daily

DAYS 7–8 I PECH MERLE/LASCAUX IV/ CASTEL-MERLEVenture into Pech Merle, a cave system filled with prehistoric art and artifacts. Enjoy a spe-cially arranged visit to Lascaux IV—the world’s most complete recreation of the original Lascaux Caves. Join archaeologist Isabelle Castanet at Castel-Merle, a complex of prehistoric stone shelters, then gather for a “prehistoric” meal. Hostellerie La Roseraie | Meals: Day 7: B/D;Day 8: B/L/D

DAYS 9–10 I VÉZÈRE VALLEY/BORDEAUXExplore Rouffignac Cave, known as the “cave of a hundred mammoths.” Continue to Bordeaux for a city tour. Hotel de Normandie | Meals: Day 9: B/L/D; Day 10: B


• Explore eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Alhambra and medieval Toledo.

• Visit a private art restoration studio in Seville, and attend a Sufi musical performance in Fez.

• Delve into Moroccan cuisine during a hands-on cooking class.

1 4 D AY S F R O M $ 9, 6 9 5

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Clockwise from above: A woman passes the ornate brass doors of the Royal Palace in Fez; The 16th-century Alcázar fortress dominates the skyline of Toledo; A traveler strolls under the striking double arches of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba; an alleyway in Chefchaouene, painted top to bottom in bright blue.

DAYS 1–2 I MADRID, SPAIN/TOLEDO Take a walking tour of Madrid’s elegant squares and leafy boulevards. Visit the grand Royal Palace and stroll through the 17th-century Plaza Mayor, a baroque square lined with arcades and cafés. Admire the works of Velázquez, El Greco, and Goya at the world-renowned Museo del Prado, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the Austrias neighborhood. The next day, drive to Toledo, a former Spanish capital situated on the banks of the Tagus River. Step back in time in

the city’s cobbled medieval quarter, scattered with churches, synagogues, and crumbling mosques. See the soaring Gothic cathedral, and visit the Church of Santo Tomé, which houses El Greco’s The Burial of the Count of Orgaz, one of the artist’s most celebrated works. Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L

DAYS 3–4 I CÓRDOBA/GRANADAHead south to Andalusia, stopping en route in quaint Córdoba, capital of Muslim Spain until 1236. Visit the mesmerizing Mezquita, aCatholic cathedral built within a former Moorish mosque, and wander the evocative old Jewish quarter. Continue to Granada and immerse yourself in the extraordinary Alhambra palace, a marvel of intricate stuccowork, archways, and flower-filled courtyards, representing the zenith of Moorish architecture in Spain. This evening, take a walk through the charming Moorish quarter, the Albayzín.Hotel Alhambra Palace | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 5 I RONDA/ZAHARA DE LA SIERRADrive into the mountains to picturesque Ronda, set high above a dramatic gorge, and see Spain’s oldest bullring. Time permitting, take a detour to Zahara de la Sierra, a whitewashed

village crowned by a Moorish watchtower.Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza | Meals: B/L

DAYS 6–7 I SEVILLEDiscover Seville, one of Spain’s most beautiful cities. Visit the exquisite Real Alcázar de Sevilla, a Mudéjar palace and World Heritage site, and stroll through its fragrant gardens. See the tomb of Christopher Columbus at the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Enjoy an exclusive candle-lit tour of the Hospital de la Caridad church, and venture into the crypt. Learn about the techniques used to repair paintings, sculptures, and other age-old art objects at the studio of two of Seville’s most respected art restorers; after observing the masters at work, try your hand at restoring a piece. Later, experience the passionate flamenco art form with gypsy musicians and dancers in an intimate setting.Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza Meals: Day 6: B/L/D; Day 7: B/D

DAYS 8–10 I TANGIER, MOROCCO/ CHEFCHAOUENEBoard a ferry to Tangier, our gateway to Morocco. Explore the vibrant medina, the Mendoubia Gardens, and the historic Jewish quarter, and observe the contrasting architec-

S O U T H E R N S P A I N A N D M O R O C C O


2019 Dates: Apr. 7–20 | Sept. 22–Oct. 5 | Oct. 20–Nov. 2

A National Geographic expert andexpedition leader will accompany this trip. Geographer Alexander Murphy will join the September 22, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION


tural styles that reflect the many powers that have occupied the city over time. Continue to Chefchaouene, nestled amid the Rif Mountains. Visit the remains of the original 15th-century fortress, or kasbah, and meander the streets of the old town, where the buildings are paint-ed in striking shades of blue. Learn secrets of Moroccan cuisine during a hands-on cooking class, followed by an all-female Andalusian musical performance and an opportunity to meet with the band members. Grand Hotel Villa de France; Lina Ryad & Spa Meals: Day 8: B/L/D; Day 9: B/D; Day 10: B/L/D

DAYS 11–12 I MEKNÈS AND VOLUBILIS/FEZJourney to Fez, stopping at two World Heritage sites: Meknès and Volubilis. In the walled city of Meknès, Morocco’s 17th-century capital, ex-plore the Jewish quarter, the photogenic Bab Mansour gate, and vestiges of the royal palace. At the third-century Roman ruins of Volubilis, encounter remnants of ancient arches, baths, and a basilica, and unravel a history that spans from the Phoenicians to the Berbers. Spend a day exploring imperial Fez, beginning in Fez el Jdid, the “new city,” dating back more than 700 years. Then venture into the labyrinthine alley-ways of Fez el Bali, the old walled city. Discover

the 14th-century Bou Inania Madrasa, an Islamic seminary known for its intricately carved stucco walls, arches, and cornices. See the mosaic-coveredNejjarine fountain and the ornate Bab Boujloud gate. Soak up the atmosphere of the bustling souk, where merchants sell everything from spices to leather goods and musical instru-ments. Later, enjoy a traditional dinner and Sufi musical performance at a family home. Riad Maison Bleue or Hotel Sahrai | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 13–14 I RABAT/CASABLANCAExplore Rabat, Morocco’s attractive capital, with visits to the walled medina and the 12th-century Hassan Tower. Continue south to Casablanca, and step into the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner. Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche | Meals: Day 13: B/D; Day 14: B


G R E E C E : W O N D E R S O F A N A N C I E N T E M P I R E

• This expedition was inspired by the National Geographic television series The Greeks.

• Discuss Greece’s contemporary political and economic landscape with a local expert.

• Enjoy dinner at a family home on Aegina island.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 6 , 6 9 5

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2019 Dates: May 1–11 | Sept. 11–21 | Sept. 25–Oct. 5 Oct. 16–26

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Archaeologist and National Geographic Explorer William Saturno will join the September 25 andOctober 16, 2019 departures.


INFORMATION


Above: Perched atop sandstone pinnacles, the monasteries of Meteora rise with the surrounding mountain peaks.

DAYS 1–3 I ATHENS, GREECE/NÁFPLIO Arrive in Athens and explore the city’s trea-sures, including the Acropolis; the ancient Agora; and the National Archeological Museum, home to countless treasures. Then travel south to see the Temple of Apollo and the Forum. Continue to charming Náfplio. Electra Palace Hotel; Amalia Hotel Nauplia | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L; Day 3: B/L/D

DAYS 4–5 I MYCENAE/OLYMPIAAt the fortified city of Mycenae, encounter an ancient grave circle, the royal palace, and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Later, enjoy an olive oil tasting and a visit to the theater of Epidaurus. Discover picturesque mountain villages on our way to Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Amalia Hotel Nauplia; Olympion Asty Hotel | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–7 I DELPHI Explore Delphi's awe-inspiring ruins; then enjoy a weaving demonstration and visit the 11th-century monastery of Hosios Loukas. Amalia Hotel Delphi | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 8–9 I METEORA/ATHENS Discover the extraordinary monasteries of Meteora, built atop sandstone megaliths. Return to Athens and meet with a local expert to discuss the political and economic landscape of contemporary Greece. Dellas Boutique Hotel; Electra Palace Athens | Meals: Day 8: B/D; Day 9: B/L

DAYS 10–11 I AEGINA/ATHENS Take a ferry to Aegina island. Return to Athens, where we’ll enjoy dinner in a local family home, and depart the next day. Electra Palace Athens Meals: Day 10: B/L/D; Day 11: B


Above: Fishing boats anchor off the southern coast of Crete.

• Explore Athenian ruins and the Minoan Palace of Knossos with private guides.

• Set sail on the Aegean and see Santorini’s famous sunset from the water.

• Stay at Kapari Natural Resort, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.

9 D AY S F R O M $ 6 , 4 9 5


Dates: This is a private expedition, so you mayrequest any dates that are convenient for you.This expedition is offered May through October.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to avail-ability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Pricing for parties of two or four can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $270 per person (subject to change).

G R E E K I S L E S P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I ATHENS, GREECETake a private tour of timeless Athens, and see some of the 4,000 ancient works on display in the Acropolis Museum. Join your private guide for a scenic drive along the coast to Cape Sóunion, where the Temple of Poseidon presides over the sparkling Aegean Sea.Electra Palace Athens | Meals: Day 2: B

Kapari Natural Resort





DAYS 3–5 I CRETEAlongside a private guide, visit the Palace of Knossos, the ancient capital of Minoan Crete; and peruse the Minoan art on display at Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum. Sail in a traditional fishing vessel to the isle of Spinalonga,once a stronghold of the Venetians, and later the Ottomans. Prepare Cretan specialties during an optional cooking class in a local village. St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas Meals: B Daily

DAYS 6–9 I SANTORINISettle into Kapari Natural Resort—part of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection—where beautiful white-washed cave rooms offer unobstructed views of Santorini’s indigo caldera. Trace the ridgeline of the island on a guided tour from the south-ern to the northern tip of the crescent. Join a sailing excursion on the Aegean, stopping to snorkel and swim in inviting waters. Kapari Natural Resort | Meals: Day 6: B; Day 7: B/L; Day 8: B/D; Day 9: B


• Bike around old Kyoto, and take part in an exclusive Japanese tea ceremony.

• Learn to roll sushi like a master chef at a Tokyo fish market.

• Take in majestic Mount-Fuji on a private tour of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 6 ,9 9 5



Above: Cherry blossoms frame snowcapped Mount Fuji.

J A P A N P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–3 I TOKYO, JAPAN/ NIKKO NATIONAL PARKJoin your guide for a private tour of old Tokyo’s narrow lanes and traditional houses, and discover Nikko National Park in the sacred hills north of Tokyo. You’ll also have the opportunity to wield a samurai sword during a private lesson with the Japanese fight performer who choreographed Uma Thurman in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill (additional cost). Park Hotel Tokyo | Meals: Days 2–3: B

DAYS 4–5 I TOKYO/FUJI-HAKONE-IZU NATIONAL PARKPick out fresh tuna and wasabi and learn to roll sushi like a master chef at a Tokyo fish market. Settle into a traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan, in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park; and set out with a private guide to explore this sprawling natural wonderland, home to majes-tic Mount Fuji. Cap off your experience at the Hakone Open-Air Museum and its impressive modern sculpture garden. Aura Tachibana Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/D

DAYS 6–8 I KYOTO/NARAHop on a bullet train for the ride to Kyoto, and discover this former imperial capital by bicycle. Participate in an exclusive Japanese tea ceremony at Korin-in temple and learn about its connection to Zen Buddhism. Join a private guide on a daylong exploration of ancient Nara, which reigned as Japan’s capital in the eighth century. Hotel Granvia Kyoto | Meals: Days 6–8: B; Day 7: B/L

DAYS 9–10 I OSAKAEat your way through Osaka on a guided gas-tronomy tour, tasting regional specialties such as takoyaki, or octopus snack, and okonomiyaki— savory pancakes. Swissotel Nankai Osaka Meals: B Daily


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Pricing for parties of two or four can be found on our website. Airfare is not included in the price.





• Explore the timeless Iya Valley, dotted with thatched cottages, shrines, and vine bridges.

• By special permission, visit the moss-draped temple of Saihoji.

• Stay at the futuristic Benesse House on Noashima, Japan’s island of art.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 9, 7 9 5

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Clockwise from above: The Zen temple of Kinkakuji is also known as the "golden pavilion"; The wooden gateway to the Itsukushima Shrine seemingly floats over the water;A modern-day geisha breaks for a snack; The rustle and creak of the Arashiyama's Bamboo Grove is designated an official Japanese soundscape.

I N S I D E J A P A N

DAY 1 I OSAKA, JAPAN/KYOTO Arrive in Osaka at any time. Transfer to Kyoto and check in to our hotel. Kyoto Hotel Okura

DAY 2 I KYOTOKyoto served as an imperial capital for more than a thousand years, and many of the wood-en temples and gardens from that era have been collectively designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Stroll the elegant Zen rock garden at Ryoanji and the iconic Kinkakuji, or

“golden pavilion.” Enjoy a specially arranged visit to Saihoji, also known as Kokedera or the “moss temple,” for the more than 120 species of moss that carpet its beautiful gardens. At to-night’s welcome dinner, meet a former geisha to learn about the geisha lifestyle, and enjoy a short performance. Kyoto Hotel Okura | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I KYOTOWander through Arashiyama’s atmospheric bamboo grove. Continue to Nijo Castle, built in 1603 and designated a national treasure. Explore the castle’s Ninomaru Palace, known for its beautiful wall paintings and its “nightin-gale” floors, designed to squeak when stepped upon to warn of intruders. This afternoon, visit an artisanal ceramics workshop. Kyoto Hotel Okura | Meals: B/L

DAY 4 I MOUNT KOYATravel to Mount Koya, headquarters of the Shingon Buddhist sect. Meet a temple priest and wander through the evocative Okuno-in cemetery, where the tombs of more than 200,000 samurai warriors and other dignitaries fill a grove of age-old cedar trees. Venture into Kongobuji, the chief temple of the Mount Koya Monastery, and see work by artists of the Kano

school of painting. Settle into our simple lodg-ings and enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetari-an dinner. Eko-In Monastery | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I MOUNT KOYA/IYA VALLEYAfter attending an optional morning prayer ceremony, descend to the shores of the Inland Sea and ferry across to Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s main islands. In Tokushima, see cos-tumes and floats from the city’s 400-year-old dance festival at the Awa Odori Kaikan muse-um. Our home for the next two nights in the Iya Valley is a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, where inviting, on-site hot spring baths offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate. Hotel Hikyonoyu | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I IYA VALLEYTravel along the steep slopes of the Iya ravine to a 300-year-old thatched farmhouse, home to the Chiiori Trust, a unique project that seeks to preserve age-old rural traditions in the val-ley. Continue to the Okuiya Niju Kazurabashi, twin suspension bridges made of intertwined vines, and hear the legends of their creation. Witness timeless scenes of village life in Ochiai, a community of traditional dwellings, some of which date from the Edo period (circa 1600–1870). Hotel Hikyonoyu | Meals: B/L/D


2019 Dates: Mar. 14–24 | Mar. 28–Apr. 7 | May 8–18 Sept. 19–29 | Oct. 3–13 | Oct. 31–Nov. 10

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Travel writer and editor-at-large for National Geographic Traveler magazine Don George will join the September 19, 2019 departure.

INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION




Add a four-day extension to Tokyo from $3,490 per person, double occupancy.

DAY 7 I IYA VALLEY/NAOSHIMATravel north to Zentsuji, revered as the birth-place of the Buddhist priest Kobo Daishi and one of the important stops along Shikoku’s 750-mile and 88-temple pilgrimage route. In Takamatsu, stroll through the tranquil gardens of 17th-century Ritsurin Park. A ferry then brings us to the small island of Naoshima, which has recently emerged as a mecca of contemporary art and architecture. Get a new perspective on nature through inventive art installations at the Benesse House Museum this afternoon, and stay in the adjacent hotel, designed by acclaimed architect Tadao Ando. Benesse House | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I NAOSHIMAWander past the works of Claude Monet and James Turrell at the innovative Chichu Art Museum, built underground but designed to capture natural light and shadow. Also visit homes that are part of the Art House Project, which has transformed some of the island’s older structures into imaginative works of art. Benesse House | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I NAOSHIMA/HIROSHIMAFerry back to Honshu and take the high-speed train to Hiroshima. Pay a visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and the Peace Memorial

Museum, which documents the atomic explo-sion that ravaged the city. Go on an optional guided visit to Shukkei-en garden, or explore this thriving modern metropolis—a testament to Japanese resilience—on your own. Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or Sheraton Grand Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAY 10 I MIYAJIMASet off by ferry for a full-day excursion on Itsukushima Island, popularly called Miyajima. Venture into the 12th-century Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, a World Heritage site built over the water, where a vermilion torii (wooden gateway) appears to float at high tide. Partic-ipate in a traditional tea ceremony, then take advantage of free time to go on a hike, visit temples, and stroll through the picturesque town. Gather for a farewell dinner back in Hiroshima this evening. Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or Sheraton Grand Hotel | Meals: B/D

DAY 11 I HIROSHIMA/OSAKATake the high-speed train back to Osaka and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B/L


• Meet National Geographic grantees working on conservation and environmental projects.

• Help feed and care for giant pandas at a conservation center in Chengdu.

• Get an insider’s look at recent finds at the terra-cotta warrior site in Xi’an.

1 6 D AY S F R O M $ 7,9 9 5

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Clockwise from above: Against a misty backdrop of karst mountains, a farmer in Guilin directs his livestock; passing through the gates to the Temple of Heaven in Beijing; A giant panda clings to a tree at the Dujiangyan Giant Panda Base; life-size terra-cotta warriors on display at a museum near Xi'an.

C H I N A : I M P E R I A L T R E A S U R E SA N D N AT U R A L W O N D E R S

DAY 1 I BEIJING, CHINAArrive in Beijing and transfer to our hotel in the heart of the capital. Meet your fellow travelers at a welcome reception this evening. The St. Regis Beijing

DAY 2 I BEIJINGStroll the vast and historic Tiananmen Square, and then navigate the 900-some buildings and temples of the Forbidden City before heading to a traditional hutong neighborhood for a

rickshaw tour. Delve into imperial Beijing at the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by gardens, and try tai chi with a master practitioner. Meet with National Geographic grantee Boju Zhang from Friends of Nature, China's oldest environmental organi-zation, to hear about his latest conservation efforts in the capital city. Tonight, feast on Peking duck with your fellow travelers. The St. Regis Beijing | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I GREAT WALL/BEIJINGStep back in time at the less visited Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, which retains the fortification’s original character. The St. Regis Beijing | Meals: B/L

DAYS 4–5 I XI’ANRide first-class on the high-speed train to Xi’an, once the eastern terminus of the Silk Road and the capital of China. On a special behind-the-scenes visit to the Institute of Archaeology— normally closed to the public—learn about the recent excavations and see artifacts up close. After breakfast the next day, view the legend-ary terra-cotta army, composed of thousands of soldiers, chariots, and horses that were buried around 210 B.C. at the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Later, walk or ride

a bike atop the massive city wall. During free time, browse the maze of markets and sites in the Muslim Quarter. Sofitel Xi’an on Renmin Square | Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/L

DAY 6 I YICHANG/YANGTZE RIVER Fly to Yichang, and set out on an afternoon city tour before boarding a luxurious riverboat for a four-night voyage on the Yangtze through the breathtaking Three Gorges region. Yangzi Explorer | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–9 I YANGTZE RIVEROn daily excursions, visit the world's largest engineering project at the Three Gorges Dam; venture into narrow tributaries by local sampan boat, taking in gorgeous scenery; and visit Fuling and the 816 Underground Project, the world's largest artificial military cave. Back on the ship, learn about traditional healing and local crafts, enjoy morning tai chi, and gaze at the dramatic gorges. Yangzi Explorer | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 10–11 I CHONGQING/CHENGDUDisembark this morning in Chongqing and travel to Chengdu. Along the way, visit the Dazu Grottoes, a World Heritage site where centuries-old rock carvings depict Buddhist,


2019 Dates: Apr. 2–17 | Apr. 23–May 8 | Oct. 1–16 Oct. 29–Nov. 13

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Professor of Chinese cultural history Elvira Masson will join theMay 14 and October 1, 2019 departures.


INFORMATION

ABOUT THE YANGZI EXPLORER

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $2,400. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $560 per person (subject to change).

Confucian, and Taoist themes as well as scenes of ordinary life during the Tang Dynasty. Enjoy dinner in Chengdu tonight, savoring a hot pot—a Sichuan favorite. Spend the next day at the Dujiangyan Giant Panda Base, overseen by the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda. We’ll have the chance to prepare meals and feed the pandas, help clean the enclosures, and hear about conservation efforts. Return to Chengdu for dinner. The St. Regis Chengdu | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 12–13 I GUILIN AND YANGSHUOFly to Guilin and descend into the Reed Flute Cave, a subterranean spectacle of stalactites and stone pillars. Admire the stunning karst landscape on a hike through the countryside. The following day, embark on a cruise down the Li River. Glide beneath limestone pinna-cles and terraced rice fields that have inspired Chinese artists for generations, and stop to browse at a local market. Return to Guilin for an evening on your own. Shangri-La Hotel Guilin Meals: Day 12: B/L/D; Day 13: B/L

DAYS 14–16 I SHANGHAIFly to bustling Shanghai and settle into our hotel. Meet with conservationist and wildlife

photographer Jing Li, a National Geographic grantee working to conserve critically endan-gered birds in the greater Shanghai area. Then zoom up to the observation deck of China’s tallest building, Shanghai Tower, for a pan-oramic view of the skyline. This evening, stroll neon-lit Nanjing Road and the historic Bund waterfront. Meander among the pavilions, ponds, and zigzag bridges of Yu Garden—Shanghai’s celebrated classical Chinese garden, dating back to 1559. Peruse an intriguing range of antiques and goods at the Old Bazaar.Tonight, toast your Chinese adventure at a local restaurant. The following day, transfer to the airport for your return flight.Fairmont Peace Hotel | Meals: Day 14: B/L; Day 15: B/L/D; Day 16: B

The Yangzi Explorer, our home for the three-day Yangtze voyage, is one of the few five-star ships on the Yangtze. The ship has a capacity of 124 pas-sengers and features spacious cabins with private bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to private balconies. There are a limited number of suites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Amenities include a panoramic-view restaurant, a bar, a theater, two lounges, a library, a fitness center, a business center with Internet access, a clinic, a sundeck, a salon, and a spa.

NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.IN | / 7 7

• Climb the watchtowers on a less visited section of the Great Wall.

• Observe giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

• Learn traditional Chinese cooking, tai chi, and calligraphy from local masters.

1 0 D AY S F R O M $ 3 ,9 9 5

Private Light


Above: The millennia-old Great Wall was built to protect the Chinese empire against invaders from the north.

C H I N A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–3 I BEIJING, CHINAExplore the cultural heart of Beijing on a private tour of the old city. Visit with a family in a traditional hutong neighborhood, and try kite-making alongside a local artisan. Conquer the legendary Great Wall as you trek across the less visited Mutianyu section. Enjoy an evening of acrobatics and kung fu at the Red Theater.The St. Regis Beijing | Meals: Day 2: B/L/D; Day 3: B/L


Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year round, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.

INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Pricing for parties of two or four can be found on our website. Airefare is not included in the price.Internal flights are an additional $700 per person(subject to change).


YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM DAYS 4–5 I BEIJING/XI’ANGreet the day with a private tai chi lesson at the Temple of Heaven. In Xi’an, encounter the legendary terra-cotta warriors; then wander calligraphy-etched tablets in the Forest of Steles and practice this ancient art form with a calligraphy expert. Prepare Chinese dumplings in the home of a local family. Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square | Meals: Days 4–5: B/D Daily

DAYS 6–7 I XI’AN/CHENGDUSurvey Xi’an from atop its ancient walls, then ride the high-speed train to Chengdu. Meet the city’s most famous residents: the giant pandas that roam the bamboo-covered grounds of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.Learn the age-old game of mah-jongg in lush Wangjianglou Park. The St. Regis Chengdu Meals: Day 6: B/D; Day 7: B

DAYS 8–10 I SHANGHAIDelve into Shanghai on private tours of itsvibrant neighborhoods and intriguing museums. Ride the exhilarating Maglev (magneticlevitation) train to the airport on your final day.The Peninsula Shanghai | Meals: Day 8: B; Day 9: B/L; Day 10: B


• Venture to North Face Base Camp on the seldom visited Tibetan side of Mount Everest.

• Participate in a private butter lamp ceremony at sky-high Rongbuk Monastery.

• Enjoy a private Tibetan dance performance with views of Lhasa’s Potala Palace.

1 5 D AY S F R O M $ 8 ,9 4 5

Land Moderate

2019 Dates: Apr. 20–May 4 | Sept. 28–Oct. 12 Oct. 15–29 | Nov. 3–17


INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

These departures are photography expeditions, led by a National Geographic photographer, and limited to 16 travelers. Cost: from $9,325 per person, double occupancy, and is subject to change.

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $1,985. Airfare is notincluded in the price. Internal flights are an additional $975 per person (subject to change).

Above: Perched on a hilltop in the Lhasa Valley, the immense Potala Palace dates to the 17th century.

T I B E T A N D N E P A L : E X P E D I T I O NT O T H E H I G H E S T H I M A L AYA

DAY 1 I BEIJING, CHINAEnjoy a day at leisure in Beijing.The Four Seasons Beijing

DAYS 2–5 I LHASA, TIBETFly to Lhasa and step into some of Tibet’s most important monasteries and temples, includ-ing Drepung, Sera, Nechung, and Jokhang. Explore the grandest of Potala Palace’s myriad rooms, and wander Barkhor, Lhasa’s old market. Venture outside the city to Norbulingka, the

Dalai Lama’s summer palace, renowned for its beautiful gardens. Shangri-La Lhasa | Meals: Days 2–11: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–8 I GYANGZÊ/SHIGATSEDrive to Gyangzê. Explore the complex of mon-asteries at Pelkor Chode, then visit Tashilunpo Monastery, the seat of Tibet's second highest incarnation, the Panchen Lama. Hike Himalayan hills to the remote Ngor Monastery, or discover the city of Shigatse. Gyangzê Hotel; Tashi Choe Ta

DAYS 9–11 I XÊGAR/GYIRONGSet out from Xêgar to see Rongbuk, the highest monastery in the world; then continue to the North Face Base Camp, offering breathtaking views of Mount Everest on a clear day. Spend a night in the border town of Gyirong. Qomolangma Hotel; Phuntsok Rabsel Guest House

DAYS 12–15 I KATHMANDU, NEPALTour Durbar Square; the royal palace of Hanuman Dhoka; and Swayambhunath, a 2,500-year-old shrine representing a fascinating mixture of Hindu and Buddhist piety. Marvel at architec-ture adorned with intricately carved wooden windows and latticework—the craftsmanship of Nepal’s ethnic Newari people. Hotel Yak & YetiMeals: Days 12–14: B/L/D Daily; Day 15: B

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Mountaineer Peter Hillary will join the April, September, and October departures.

Add a five-day pre- or post-trip extension to Angkor Wat in Cambodia from $2,195 per per-son, double occupancy.


• Stay at Zhiwa Ling Heritage, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.

• Hike to Bhutan's iconic pilgrimage site, the Tiger's Nest Temple.

• Experience a traditional festival, and visit a family farmhouse.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 6 ,9 9 5

Land Moderate

Clockwise from above: The magnificent Taktsang Lhakhang, or Tiger's Nest Temple, sits high above the lush Paro Valley; Buddhist monks play traditional Bhutanese flutes; Prayer flags inscribed with sacred symbols and mantras are ubiquitous in Bhutan; Traditional masked dancers perform outside Zhiwa Ling Heritage, a National Geographic Unique Lodge.

Prayer flags make for a colorful crossing of the Paro River.

B H U T A N : K I N G D O M I N T H E C L O U D S

DAY 1 I BANGKOK, THAILANDArrive in Bangkok this evening and check in to our hotel. Novotel Suvarnabhumi Hotel

DAY 2 I PARO, BHUTANFly to Bhutan's Paro Valley (7,300 feet), and visit Ta Dzong, a 17th-century fortress overlooking the Paro Valley. Explore our stunning hotel—a member of the National Geographic Unique

Lodges of the World collection—before a welcome dinner. Zhiwa Ling Heritage | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I PUNAKHAAfter a special Buddhist blessing ceremony, journey to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. This afternoon, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a small but famous temple in the center of the golden Punakha Valley. Settle into our hotel and enjoy dinner together. RKPO Green Resort | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4 I PUNAKHAAfter an invigorating hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, a spectacularly situated temple, be rewarded for your efforts with in-credible views of the valley below. Then visit the Punakha Dzong, an impressive fortress guarding the southern end of the valley at the confluence of the Pho (male) and Mo (female) Rivers. RKPO Green Resort | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I PHOBJIKHATravel to the beautiful alpine valley of Phobjikha (10,000 feet), the largest wintering site for the endangered black-necked crane. Along the way, the environment changes from semi-tropical

to pine forest, and then to an alpine zone that is home to several species of rhododendron, dwarf bamboo, and Grey Langur monkeys. Dewachen Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I PHOBJIKHAAgainst a backdrop of forest-clad mountains, Gangtey Goemba temple complex rises dra-matically from a cluster of hilltop cottages. One of the oldest Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan, Gangtey Goemba has recently been renovated,


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Anthropologist, author, and filmmaker Carroll Dunham will join the March departure.


2019 Dates: Mar. 11–21 | Oct. 1–11 | Oct. 18–28 Nov. 6-16

INFORMATION

This departure is a photography expedition, led by a National Geographic photographer, and limited to 16 travelers. Cost: from $7,495 per person, double occupancy, and subject to change.

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $1,795. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $900 per person (subject to change).

Zhiwa Ling Heritage


OPTIONAL EXTENSION

allowing us to examine the fine workmanship of Bhutan’s best woodcarvers, sculptors, and painters. Then set off on a half-day hike, stop-ping to visit with a village family along the way. Dewachen Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I THIMPHUTravel to Thimphu (7,900 feet), the capital of Bhutan. Cross the Dochu La pass (10,000 feet) en route and gaze at a 200-mile panorama of Himalayan peaks (weather permitting). Tonight, get a behind-the-scenes perspective on con-temporary Bhutan during a lively Bhutanese banquet with members of the government, local dignitaries, and respected professionals. Taj Tashi Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I THIMPHU/PAROSpend the morning exploring the country’s more modern side in Thimphu. Visit the National Textile Museum, where Bhutan’s finest weavings and brocades are on display. Return to Paro in the afternoon and settle back in at Zhiwa Ling. Zhiwa Ling Heritage | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I PAROOur journey in the kingdom culminates with a hike to the most famous pilgrimage site in Bhutan: Taktsang Lhakhang, or the Tiger’s

Add a four-day pre- or post-trip extension to Angkor Wat in Cambodia for $2,195 per person, double occupancy.

Nest Temple (9,300 feet). Visible from afar, this stunning monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff 2,000 feet above the valley floor. This evening, celebrate your Bhutanese adventure at a festive farewell dinner. Zhiwa Ling Heritage | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 10–11 I PARO/BANGKOK, THAILANDFly to Bangkok and check in to our hotel. The following morning, transfer to the airport for your return flight home.Novotel Suvarnabhumi Hotel | Meals: B Daily


• Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour at the Angkor Conservation Center.

• Have lunch with two former Viet Cong soldiers at their home.

• Encounter some of the region’s most endangered species, and hear from conservationists.

1 5 D AY S F R O M $ 8 ,9 9 5

Land Light/Moderate

Clockwise from above: Traditional wooden junks float beneath the towering karst peaks of Vietnam's Ha Long Bay; Wat Xieng Thong, or Temple of the Golden City, is one of the most important monasteries in Luang Prabang; A woman contemplates a temple in Angkor; Pangolins are the world's most trafficked animal.

V I E T N A M , L A O S , A N D C A M B O D I A : T R E A S U R E S O F I N D O C H I N A

DAYS 1–3 I HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAMExplore Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) on a guided tour. Visit the War Remnants Museum and the stately Reunification Palace; admire the French colonial architecture of the Central Post Office and City Hall; and delve into bustling Ben Thanh market, one of the oldest and largest markets in the country. Descend into the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a network of underground passageways used by the Viet

Cong during the Vietnam War, and spend time with two Viet Cong veterans in their home. Hôtel Des Art Saigon | Meals: Day 2: B/L/D: Day 3: B/L

DAYS 4–5 I HANOIStroll Hanoi’s tree-lined boulevards, past serene lakes and charming pagodas. Stop at Ho Chi Minh’s imposing mausoleum and take a walk around Ngoc Son Temple, set in the middle of an emerald-green lake. Soak up the lively old quarter, where the sizzle of roadside woks mingles with the beeping of motorbikes, and duck past a moving train on the unusual “train street.” Visit the colonial-era prison known by American POWs as the Hanoi Hilton. See Vietnam’s first university, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the sprawling Imperial Citadel—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi | Meals: Day 4: B/D; Day 5: B/L

DAYS 6–7 I NINH BINHVenture south from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, a rustic region in the Red River Delta nicknamed “Ha Long Bay on land.” Here we’ll be joined by National Geographic grantee Le Khac Quyet, a leading Vietnamese wildlife biologist and avid photographer who will share updates on his latest research. Explore the Van Long Nature

Reserve by bamboo rowboat, searching for the endangered Delacour’s langur. Venture to Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s old-est and largest natural reserve, and join the director of the Endangered Primate Rescue Center for a behind-the-scenes tour. Then visit Save Vietnam’s Wildlife rescue center to learn about a project spearheaded by National Geographic grantee Nguyen Van Thai aimed at reducing the demand for pangolins, the world's most trafficked animal. Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 8 I HA LONG BAYHead north to Ha Long Bay and explorethis mystical World Heritage site on a

Ninh Binh is often called "Ha Long Bay on land."


2019 Dates: Oct. 19–Nov. 2 | Dec. 28, 2019–Jan. 11, 20202020 Dates: Jan. 18–Feb. 1 | Feb. 22–Mar. 7

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Art Historian Paula Swart will join the October 19 and December 28, 2019 departure.


INFORMATION

Price is per person, double occupancy, and is subject to change. Single supplement is from $2,400. Airfare is not included in the price. Internal flights are an additional $685 per person (subject to change).

traditional-style wooden junk. Cruise serene, turquoise waters scattered with tiny forested islands and fantastic karst formations, and go off the beaten path at secluded Lan Ha Bay. Discover the magical Toi and Sang caves by canoe, and rise early for a relaxing tai chi session on deck.Azalea | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 9–11 I LUANG PRABANG, LAOS Experience Luang Prabang, nestled amid jungle-shrouded hills at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. Visit the area’s most revered Buddhist temple and see the golden Prabang Buddha statue for which the town is said to be named. Immerse yourself in the uniquely Laotian baci ceremony, where cotton cords are tied around the participants’ wrists to wish them good fortune, health, and prosperity. At dawn, witness the tradition of Tak Bat, the daily almsgiving to Buddhist monks.Venture into rural Laos to visit the mountain villages of the Hmong and Khmu ethnic groups, and hike to the ethereal Kuang Si Waterfall. See endangered Asiatic black bears at the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, and speak with a conservationist about National Geographic– funded research assessing the threats these animals face. The Luang Say Residence | Meals: Days 9–10: B/L/D; Day 11: B/L

DAYS 12–15 I SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA/ ANGKOR Delve into the magnificent World Heritage site of Angkor with an archaeologist guide. Built in the first half of the 12th century in the depths of the Cambodian jungle, the mysterious capi-tal of the Khmer Empire is replete with massive towers, carved murals, and enchanting crum-bled courtyards. Wander the Bayon temple and the Terrace of the Elephants, and explore haunting Ta Prohm, tangled in thick banyan roots. Tour the Angkor Conservation Center with the center’s director and, by special access, view thousands of priceless statues. Watch the sunset at the mesmerizing Angkor Wat temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Visit Banteay Srei, an exquisite 10th-century Hindu temple north of Angkor Wat, and stop at the Golden Silk Pheach Preservation Center, a Cambodian NGO working to preserve ancient Khmer silk production techniques. Drift down in a wooden boat to the great Tonle Sap lake, and discover a boisterous floating city com-plete with markets, schools, and even karaoke bars. Gather for our farewell reception, and take in a traditional Cambodian dance and music performance over dinner.Jaya House River Park | Meals: Day 12: B/D; Days 13–14: B/L/D Daily; Day 15: B/L


• Ride the Palace on Wheels, a train that evokes the splendor of the maharajas.

• Explore six UNESCO World Heritage sites with a National Geographic expert.

• Attend one of India’s vibrant festivals, such as Diwali or Holi.

1 1 D AY S F R O M $ 1 2 , 7 9 5


Clockwise from above: The breathtaking Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan; A greeter at the sumptuous Palace on Wheels waits towelcome guests on board; A nonchalant tiger glances at a photo-snapping traveler; A colorfully-clad woman sits in striking contrast against Jodhpur's blue-hued walls.

I N D I A ' S F A B L E D R A J A S T H A N B Y R A I L

DAYS 1–2 I DELHI, INDIAArrive in Delhi at any time. The next day, set out on a tour of New Delhi to see the India Gate and Parliament buildings. Then delve into Old Delhi, a patchwork of eight different cities built by a succession of rulers. Explore Humayun's Tomb, a milestone in the history of Mughal architec-ture, and Gandhi Smriti, a museum honoring Mahatma Gandhi. This evening, gather for a special welcome reception and dinner. The Taj Mahal Palace | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 3 I JAIPURTravel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Known as the "Pink City" for its rose-colored buildings, Jaipur is protected by high fortifi-cations. Stroll through a local bazaar before visiting Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of the Winds, a stunning sandstone building where the delicate latticework and honeycombed windows were originally designed to allow ladies of the court to watch life on the streets below. Jai Mahal Palace | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4 I JAIPURThis morning, ascend to the hilltop Amber Fort, a 16th- and 17th-century complex. Explore its exquisite and well-preserved palaces, temples, gardens, and pavilions. Enjoy a guided tour of the City Palace, a vast complex with a museum housing rare manuscripts, paintings, and an ar-mory. Visit the 18th-century royal observatory known as Jantar Mantar and examine a variety of precise astronomical tools. This evening, settle into your cabin aboard the Palace on Wheels. Palace on Wheels through Day 8 | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK/ CHITTAURGARHSet out on a morning game drive in Ranthambore National Park in search of the elusive tiger, as well as hyenas, jackals, and

foxes. Continue to the city of Chittaurgarh and trace a turbulent history of siege, valor, and sacrifice at Chittaurgarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India. Meet villagers on a walk within the hilltop fortified walls, and stop for tea at sunset.Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I UDAIPURKnown as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is most cel-ebrated for its fairy-tale marble palaces, which appear to emerge from the waters of Lake Pichola. Venture into a spectacular labyrinth of courtyards within the City Palace, a soaring creation of marble and granite perched on the lake's edge. This palace complex—the largest in Rajasthan—blends medieval, European, and Chinese architecture and is richly decorated with inlaid mirror-work, mosaics, and frescoes. Cruise by the Lake Palace Hotel on a boat ride across Lake Pichola. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I JAISALMERTravel into the heart of the Thar Desert to mag-ical Jaisalmer, founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156. Rising above the city, the imposing turrets and bastions of the golden sandstone fort conceal a lively town within. Explore this magnificent fort and discover the havelis, once the man-sions of wealthy merchants, amd decorated


2019 Dates: Mar. 18–28 | Sept. 30–Oct. 10 Oct. 21–31

2020 Dates: Jan. 27–Feb. 6 | Feb. 3–13 Mar. 2–12 | Mar. 23–Apr. 2

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. Geologist and geographer David Scott Silverberg will join the March 2, 2020 departure.


INFORMATION

ABOUT THE PALACE ON WHEELS

OPTIONAL EXTENSION


Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $3,850. Airfare is not included in the price. Each departure follows a similar itinerary to the one shown but includes a differentfestival or celebration.

The Palace on Wheels is a train built in the royal style of the maharajas. The train has 14 fully air-conditioned deluxe saloons, each with three twin-bed cabins, a mini-pantry, and a lounge. Each cabin has an en suite bathroom with a toilet, a sink, and a shower. Two restaurant cars serve continental, Indian, Rajasthani, and Chinese cuisine.

Add a five-day post-trip extension to Khajuraho and Varanasi from $3,450 per person, double occupancy.

with elaborate facades. Ride a camel across the sand dunes of the Thar Desert and stop for a traditional tea. Enjoy dinner off the train this evening while watching a performance by traditional folk dancers. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I JODHPURJodhpur's blue-hued old city lies at the foot of the massive Mehrangarh Fort, perched on a rocky outcrop some 120 meters high. Visit the 15th-century fort with stunning views of the city, elaborately mirrored rooms, and a museum with a spectacular collection of miniature paint-ings, ivory artifacts, and weapons. Then delve into the narrow streets of the historical center. Enjoy lunch before returning to the Palace on Wheels for the final leg of our rail journey. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I KEOLADEO GHANA NATIONAL PARK/AGRADisembark in Bharatpur and head into the wetlands of Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a renowned bird sanctuary. Search for egrets, flamingos, and other bird species and wildlife. Stop at a hotel near the park for a cooking demonstration and lunch. Take a guided walk around Bharatpur village before heading to Fatehpur Sikri, the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1569 to 1585, where elegant carved

sandstone palaces remain incredibly well preserved. Continue to Agra this evening. ITC Mughal | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 10 I AGRARise early this morning to see the Taj Mahal's marble sparkle in the dawn light. Construct-ed by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, the Taj Mahal is often described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love. After lunch, explore Agra Fort's court-yards, mosques, and private chambers, which bring to life the story of the Mughal Empire. Pay a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see how the intricate stonework of the Taj Mahal was created. Visit the Taj Mahal once again at sunset before gathering for a festive farewell dinner. ITC Mughal | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 11 I AGRA/DELHIPay a visit to a local orphanage if you wish. Then drive to Delhi and relax in day rooms at the Taj Mahal Hotel. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight home. The Taj Mahal Palace | Meals: B/L/D


• Embark on a globe-trotting expedition featuring 15 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Visit with National Geographic explorers and grantees in the field.

• Stay at two world-class National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World.

2 4 D AY S F R O M $ 8 9,9 9 5

Private Jet Light/Moderate

Clockwise from above: A couple takes in breathtaking views of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu; Enormous moai statues stand guard on Easter Island;Camels take a break outside Petra's iconic Treasury building; the sublime Taj Mahal, a timeless monument to love.

A R O U N D T H E W O R L D B Y P R I VAT E J E T

DAY 1 I WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S.Gather for a reception at National Geographic headquarters, followed by a welcome dinner. The Hay-Adams | Meals: D

DAYS 2–4 I CUSCO, SACRED VALLEYOF THE INCA, AND MACHU PICCHU,OR AMAZON, PERUFly by private jet to Lima, then travel to Cusco by local flight. Explore the city, and meet National Geographic grantee and master Andean weaver Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez. Join National Geographic grantee Peter Frost, or one of his colleagues, for a talk on his archaeo-logical expeditions in Peru. Continue to Machu

Picchu, which was rediscovered by HiramBingham in 1911 and excavated with support from National Geographic. Alternatively, you may choose to explore the extraordinaryecosystem of the Amazon rain forest. BelmondPalacio Nazarenas or Inkaterra HaciendaConcepción | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 5–6 I EASTER ISLAND, CHILEFly to Easter Island, located 2,300 miles off the coast of Chile. Explore the island’s ancient ruins with resident archaeologists, delving into the mystery surrounding its colossal moai statues. Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 7–8 I CROSS THE INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE/APIA, SAMOA

Depart for Samoa and lose a day crossing the international date line. Upon arrival, enjoy a traditional fiafia—a lively performance of Samoan dance and song. Opt to spend time at a local women’s cooperative or visit the former homestead of author Robert Louis Stevenson. Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 9–10 I GREAT BARRIER REEF OR DAINTREE RAINFOREST, AUSTRALIAExplore the Great Barrier Reef with marine biologist and National Geographic grantee Dr. Jamie Seymour. Or, discover the natural wonders and Aboriginal culture of the Daintree Rainforest. Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 11–12 I ANGKOR OR BENG MEALEA, CAMBODIA

Discover Angkor’s vast temple complex, then choose to cruise to floating villages, visit an artisan market, or enjoy a Cambodian cooking class. Alternatively, explore the lost jungle tem-ple of Beng Mealea, one of the largest Khmer temples. In the evening, enjoy a Cambodian music and dance performance during a private dinner at a magnificent temple. Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor | Meals: B/L/D Daily


DAYS 13–15 I CHENGDU, CHINA/LHASA, TIBETContinue to Chengdu, the capital of China’s Sichuan province, and enjoy a tour of the city. Gather for a dinner accompanied by traditional entertainment. Take a local flight to Lhasa. Visit Jokhang, Tibet’s most sacred temple, and explore colorful markets. Learn about tradi-tional healing practices with a Tibetan doctor. Venture up to the World Heritage–designated Potala Palace and explore Sera Monastery. Alternatively, you may choose to stay in Chengdu and visit a local panda reserve and attend a Sichuan opera. Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa or The Temple House | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 16–17 I TAJ MAHAL, INDIAVisit the majestic Taj Mahal, exploring its exquisite construction and serene garden. Venture to the Agra Fort or join local youth on a walk to the city’s lesser known monuments. Or, visit the red-sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah. The Oberoi Amarvilas | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 18–19 I SERENGETI PLAIN OR NGORONGORO CRATER, TANZANIAFly to Tanzania and choose from two options: head deep into the savanna on game drives in Serengeti National Park, home to the “big five,” or descend into Ngorongoro Crater, which

harbors some 25,000 animals, including endan-gered black rhinos. National GeographicExplorer-at-Large Louise Leakey, or one of her colleagues, joins us to discuss the family’s historic fossil finds. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti or andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 20–21 I PETRA AND WADI RUM, JORDANDiscover Petra, the once thriving capital of the Nabataeans. Gather for a festive dinner and Bedouin folklore performance, and experience the otherworldly desert landscape of Wadi Rum. Mövenpick Resort Petra | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 22–23 I MARRAKECH OR THE ATLAS MOUNTAINS, MOROCCODuring your time in Marrakech, opt to explore the Medina, visit the Museum of Perfume and create your own scent, enjoy a food tour of Djemaa el Fna square, or stroll through the lush Majorelle Garden. Alternatively, you may choose to venture into the Atlas Mountains and experience Berber traditions firsthand. On our last night in Morocco, gather for a farewell dinner celebrating our extraordinary adventure. La Mamounia | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 24 I WASHINGTON, D.C., U.SFly by private jet to Washington, D.C. and connect with your flight home. Meals: B/L

A team of National Geographic experts will accompany this trip. Author and geographer Stephen Cunha (pictured), National Geographic photographerAmy Toensing, and art historian Jack Daulton will join the March departure.

2020 Dates: Jan. 9–Feb. 1* | Mar. 26–Apr. 18

INFORMATION

FLY BY PRIVATE JET

*This departure follows a modified itinerary.

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $8,950. Transporta-tion by private Boeing 757 jet and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the price. Airfare to/from Washington, D.C. is not included.

Please note: There is a $5,000 per-person deposit for this trip. See our website for specific terms and conditions.

Note: This trip will be operated by National Geographic Partners Chicago, the tour operations branch of National Geographic, on flights operated by Icelandair. Visit natgeoexpeditions.com/2020atwterms to view the operator-participant contract and terms and conditions for this trip.

Well suited for this incredible journey, our Boeing 757 provides unparalleled flexibility with its long-range capabilities and ability to land in smaller airports. Flying direct and avoiding layovers, we are able to maximize our time in each destination while delivering a superior travel experience. Instead of the standard 233 seats, the jet’s interior has been customized to accommodate just 75 passengers in two-by-two, VIP-style leather seating. You’ll enjoy excellent access to experts and staff, who provide informative briefings and lectures throughout the expedition.


• Join an archaeologist at the National Geographic–funded dig for the Maya city of El Mirador.

• Stay at Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, a National Geographic Unique Lodge in the Amazon.

• Visit Panama’s Barro Colorado island, site of a National Geographic–supported wildlife study.

2 1 D AY S F R O M $ 7 8 ,9 4 5

Private Jet Light/Moderate

Clockwise from above: Vibrant Rio de Janeiro twinkles to life as the sun sets over Guanabara Bay; Red-eyed tree frogs are commonly found in Panama; Cartagena's atmosphericcolonial old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site; Travelers stand in awe before the majestic granite mountains of Torres del Paine National Park.

C E N T R A L A N D S O U T H A M E R I C AB Y P R I VA T E J E T

DAY 1 I WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S.Gather for a reception at National Geographic headquarters, followed by a welcome dinner. The Hay-Adams | Meals: D

DAYS 2–3 I TIKAL AND EL MIRADOR, GUATEMALAFly to Flores, gateway to Tikal—one of the larg-est cities in the Classic Maya world. Alongside our experts, examine the fascinating carvings and hieroglyphs etched into these ancient

ruins. Opt to fly by helicopter to the preclassic Maya metropolis of El Mirador, currentlyundergoing excavation as part of the MiradorBasin Project, directed by archaeologist and National Geographic grantee Dr. Richard Hansen. Join a member of Richard’s team for a guided tour, enjoying rare access to the dig site. As an alternative to El Mirador, visit the archaeological sites of Yaxhá and Topoxté. Gather for a spectacular galadinner amid the Maya ruins of Uaxactún.Camino Real Tikal or Las LagunasMeals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 4–6 I PANAMA CITY AND THE PANAMA CANAL, PANAMALand in Panama City and take a curated walking tour of the historic Casco Viejo quarter. At the multicolored Biomuseo, peruse exhibits highlighting Panama’s incredible biodiversity before a private dinner in the museum’s atrium. Enjoy a specially arranged visit to BarroColorado Nature Monument, site of a NationalGeographic–supported study that tracks tagged animals using wireless technology. We’ll have the opportunity to meet project research-ers and learn about their work. Cruise a portion of the Panama Canal, then encounter tropical birds at the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center. American Trade Hotel | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 7–9 I CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU,LAKE TITICACA, OR AMAZON, PERUArrive in Lima and fly by local air to Cusco. Meet National Geographic grantee and master Andeanweaver Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez, who works with traditional weavers to preserve Peru’s rich heritage of textile arts. The next morning, travel to Machu Picchu on our privately chartered train and explore the iconic citadel, excavated with support from the National Geographic Society. Instead of visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu, you may explore the remote cultures of Lake Titicaca, or settle into a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World in the heart of the Amazon rain forest. Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, Titilaka, or Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 10–11 I RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZILDiscover vibrant Rio de Janeiro in a variety of ways. Stroll Ipanema Beach, or visit Samba City. Take in jaw-dropping views from the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, or ride to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain in a cable car. The following day, visit the lab of a National Geographic grantee at the Botanical Garden, replete with vibrant Brazilian flora, including 600 types of orchids. Belmond Copacabana Palace | Meals: B/L/D Daily


NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM | -888-966 -8687 89 NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.IN | / 89

2020 Date: Feb. 4–24

INFORMATION

FLY BY PRIVATE JET

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is from $7,895. Transportation by private Boeing 757 jet and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the price. Airfare to Washington, D.C. and return from Miami is not included in the price.

Please note: There is a $5,000 per-person deposit for this trip. See our website for specific terms and conditions.

Note: This trip will be operated by National Geographic Partners Chicago, the tour operations branch of NationalGeographic, on flights operated by Icelandair. Visitnatgeoexpeditions.com/2020centralterms to view the operator-participant contract and terms and conditionsfor this trip.

Well suited for this incredible journey, our Boeing 757 pro-vides unparalleled flexibility with its long-range capabili-ties and ability to land in smaller airports. Flying direct and avoiding layovers, we are able to maximize our time in each destination while delivering a superior travel experience. Instead of the standard 233 seats, the jet’s interior has been customized to accommodate just 75 passengers in two-by-two, VIP-style leather seating. You’ll enjoy excellent access to experts and staff, who provide informative briefings and lectures throughout the expedition.

DAYS 12–14 I PATAGONIA AND TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK, CHILETravel to Torres del Paine National Park and spend three days discovering the great Patagonian wil-derness, exploring glacially carved landscapes of twisted pinnacles, gem-like lakes, and rolling grasslands. During our stay, tailor your explora-tion to your interests, choosing from a variety of hiking and horseback riding excursions.Explora Patagonia or Awasi | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 15–17 I BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINADiscover the highlights of Buenos Aires on a walking tour, then delve deeper into the city, choosing from a variety of excursions. Step in time to a tango lesson, pedal between the hidden streets murals of Buenos Aires on an art-themed bike tour, go behind the scenes at the renowned Teatro Colón, savor a wine tasting, or visit the workshop of an expert silversmith. Head outside the city to a family-owned estancia, and glimpse the gaucho lifestyle during a horseback riding show, barbecue lunch, and polo match.Alvear Palace Hotel | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 18 I IGUAÇU FALLS, BRAZILComprised of 275 cascades and spanning nearly two miles, Iguaçu Falls is one of the

world’s most dramatic aquatic displays. See this wonder from two angles: on a thrilling Zodiac ride that goes behind the falls and from nature paths on our hotel grounds. Join a naturalist to explore the Macuco jungle, or visit Parque das Aves, home to nearly 150 distinct avian species. Dine under the stars during an outdoor barbecue. Belmond Hotel das Cataratas | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 19–20 I CARTAGENA, COLOMBIALand in the Caribbean port city of Cartagena and ride a horse-drawn carriage through the cobbled colonial center. Peruse the Museum of Modern Art, and enjoy a private visit to the home of sculptor Eladio Gil Zambrana to discover rooms brimming with his work. Later, learn about the life and work of Colombian author and Nobel Laureate Gabriel García Márquez, or sample Colombia’s rich brews on a city coffee tour. Gather for a farewell dinner in a private colonial-era home. Charleston Santa Teresa | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 21 I MIAMI, FLORIDA, U.S.Fly to Miami, where you’ll connect with your commercial flight home.Meals: B

A team of National Geographic expertswill accompany this trip. Archaeologistand National Geographic ExplorerWilliam Saturno, geologist andgeographer David Scott Silverberg,and National Geographic photographerNevada Wier (pictured) will join this trip.


R E S P O N S I B I L I T YNational Geographic Expeditions (a division of National Geographic Partners, LLC) will provide educational enrichment for tripsas outlined in its catalog and on its websites (natgeoexpeditions.com and natgeoexpeditions.in) (each an “Expedition”) and may license qualified professional Tour Operators to organize and administer such Expeditions. Any suchdesignated tour operator, its parent, subsidiaries, and assigns, and their respective employees, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, representatives, agents and assigns (collectively “Tour Operator”), in turn, acts only as an agent for any transportation carrier, hotel, ground operator, or other suppliers of services connected with specific Expeditions (“Other Providers”), and the Other Providers are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. The passenger tickets in use by the carriers will constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the passenger; the carriers are not responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time the participants are not aboard their conveyances.

National Geographic Partners, LLC, its parent, subsidiaries, and assigns, and their respective employees, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, representatives, agents and assigns (collectively “National Geographic”) and theTour Operator will not be held liable for (A) any damage to, or loss of, property or injury to, or death of, persons occasioned directly or indirectly by an act or omission of any Other Provider, including but not limited to any defect in any aircraft, watercraft, or vehicle operated or provided by such Other Provider; and (B) any loss or damage due to delay, cancellation, or disruption in any manner caused by the laws, regulations, acts or failures to act, demands, orders, or interpositions of any government or any subdivision or agent thereof, or by acts of God, strikes, fire, flood, war, rebellion, terrorism, insurrection, sickness, quarantine, epidemics, theft, or any other cause(s) beyond their control. The participant waives any claim against National Geographic and/or theTour Operator for any such loss, damage, injury, or death.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Please Note: The applicable National Geographic or Tour Operator Terms and Conditions may vary from those listed below based upon the specific Expedition selected by the participant.A copy of the final Terms and Conditions applicable to each participant will be sent in pre-Expedition communications.If a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator holds that any provision is invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity will not affect the validity or operation of any other provision and such invalid provision will be deemed to be severed from these Terms and Conditions.

Basis of Pricing: All prices are (i) per person based on two persons sharing a room or cabin, unless otherwise noted,(ii) quoted in U.S. dollars, (iii)estimates based on tariffs, currency values, airfares and third-party charges, and(iv) subject to change prior to booking.Notification of the current price relevant to the Expedition will be provided to the participantat the time of booking. After booking, if it is necessary to levy an additional surcharge, National Geographic reserves the right to do so, and notification will be given at the time of final invoicing.

Eligibility: Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire Expedition. Some itineraries have minimum age requirements—call for more information.

Included in Expedition Cost: Accommodations and meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner); educational materials; pre-departure information; entrance fees, excursions, and sightseeing noted as included in the itinerary; all gratuities except those for train or ship's crew, unless otherwise noted on the itinerary page; ground transportation during the Expedition; transfers to and from group flights where applicable; services of National Geographic experts and/or local guides, lecturers, Expedition leaders, and any other staff; and taxes, port charges, baggage handling, and service charges. Please note: the “B, L, D” notations apply to the period during the Expedition only and do not include any meals on flights to/from the Expedition. Internal airfare is included on some international Expeditions as indicated in the itinerary.

Not Included in Expedition Cost: Air transportation and related fees (except as indicated in the itinerary); activities noted as optional in the itinerary; gratuities for train or ship’s crew, unless otherwise noted on the itinerary page; passport, visa, and permit expenses; medical expenses and immunizations; baggage/accident/cancellation insurance; personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages; and any other items not specifically noted as included.

Single/Shared Accommodations: A limited number of single rooms/cabins are available at an extra cost on a first-come, first-served basis. National Geographic Expeditions and/or the Tour Operatorwill assist persons requesting a roommate. The participants will be notified if a suitable roommate is not available, in which case the single rate will be charged.

Payments, Cancellations, and Refunds: To reserve space on an Expedition, a $500 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are nine days or less; a $750 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are ten to 15 days; and a $2,000 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are 16 days or more except if noted on the itinerary page. Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure. Payments must be made by credit card. A participant’s reservation may be canceled if full payment has not been received by 90 days prior to departure. For reservations made within 90 days of the departure date, full payment is required when the reservation is accepted. All cancellation notices must be received in writing and will become effective as of the date of the postmark. If a participant cancels 120 days or more prior to departure, a refund less an administrative fee of 50% of the deposit will be made. Per-person charges for cancellations that occur less than 120 days prior to departure (“Cancellation Period”) are as follows: 91-119 days prior to departure: 100% of the deposit amount; 45-90 days prior to departure: 50% of the Expedition cost; 44 or fewer days prior to departure: 100% of the Expedition cost. This policy also applies to pre- and post-Expedition extensions and extra arrangements confirmed on any participant’s behalf. Any revisions made within the Cancellation Period, such as a change in departure date or choice of Expedition, are subject to this cancellation policy. Any airline tickets issued are subject to the carrier’s refund policy. Arriving late or leaving an Expedition in progress, for any reason whatsoever, will not result in a refund, and no refunds will be made for any unused portions of an Expedition. National Geographic Expeditions reserves the right to cancel any Expedition because of inadequate enrollment that makes the Expedition economically infeasible to operate or because of good-faith concerns with respect to the safety, health, or welfare of the participants. If an Expedition is canceled prior to departure, the Tour Operator will provide the participants with a full refund of monies paid to the Tour Operator; except in the event that the cancellation is due to a significant event that makes it infeasible to operate the Expedition as planned, in which case the Tour Operator will provide the participants with a

refund and/or credit toward a future Expedition equivalent to the amount paid to the Tour Operator.

If National Geographic Expeditions or the Tour Operatorcancels the Expedition in progress, the participants will receive a prorated refund based on the number of days not completed on the Expedition. If a participant elects to leave an Expedition in progress of their own volition, the participant will not receive any type of refund. If National Geographic Expeditions or the Tour Operator cancels the Expedition in progress and the participant elects not to immediately return to his/her original point of departure for the Expedition, or if the participant elects to leave an Expedition in progress of their own volition, the participant acknowledges and agrees that (i) the participant shall be solely responsible for his/her travel plans once he/she departs the Expedition, (ii) neither National Geographic nor the Tour Operator shall have any responsibility for or control over the participant’s safety or activities once he/she departs the Expedition, and (iii) the participant releases and holds harmless National Geographic and the Tour Operator, from any and all costs, liability, loss, damage, injury, or death that may arise out of the participant's decision to not return to his/her original point of departure from the cancelled Expedition in progress.Except as outlined above when National Geographic Expeditions cancels an Expedition, National Geographic and the Tour Operator have no responsibility for any expenses, including any non-refundable expenses, incurred by the participants in preparing for a cancelled Expedition or for any additional arrangements should the participants embark prior to the scheduled group departure date.

Optional Excursions: If a participant elects to participate in any additional activity or excursion that is not arranged or led by National Geographic Expeditions or the Tour Operator, neither National Geographic nor the Tour Operator shall have any responsibility for or control over the participant’s safety or well-being, and the participant releases and holds harmless National Geographic and the Tour Operator from any and all costs, liability, loss, damage, injury, or death arising from the participant’s decision to participate in such activity or excursion.

Trip-cancellation insurance is available at an additional cost and is strongly recommended. For more information about and to enroll in an option available through Travel Insurance Services, visit the “Travel Insurance” sectionof our website at natgeoexpeditions.com.

Itinerary Changes: The itineraries and staff presented in the catalog or on the website are subject to modification and change by National Geographic Expeditions or the Tour Operator. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate Expeditions as planned, but alterations may still occur after final itineraries are sent.

Documentation: participants are responsible for obtaining any documents required for their participation in the Expedition such as a valid passport, all visas, vaccination certificates, and any other documents.Failure to obtain documents does not negate the terms and conditions, and any extra costs incurred for rerouting due to travel without the necessary documents will be the participant’s responsibility.

Health Requirements: National Geographic reasonably accommodates travelers with disabilities on all of its trips, but not all trips may be suitable for all travelers. Any physical condition, diet, or treatment requiring special attention must be reported in writing when the reservation is made. Walking and climbing stairs are required in many hotels and airports to board an aircraft and for many excursions. If the participant requires a slower pace, extra assistance, or the use of a cane or walking stick, arrangements may be made for private touring at each destination, if necessary, at the discretion of our Expedition staff.Depending upon the nature of the arrangements, extra costs for such arrangements may be the responsibility of the participant. If the participant would like to forgo some of the scheduled sightseeing to rejuvenate and relax, he/she may feel free to do so at any time. Please call National Geographic Expeditions for further details if you require special accommodation to participate on this Expedition. National Geographic Expeditions encourages participants to consult a doctor for specific medical advice about any activities or destinations. Certain Expeditions require that each participant obtains his/her physician’s approval to join the Expedition, and in those cases, National Geographic Expeditions will send the participant a form for his/her physician to sign and return per instructions outlined in the pre-Expedition communications.

Medical Authorization and Coverage: In the event the participant becomessufficiently incapacitated as to be unable to direct his or her own care, there is no one on the Expedition who can direct participant’s care, and National Geographic Expeditions is unable or does not have time to contact participant’s emergency contact, the participant, by registering and paying a deposit for an Expedition, authorizes any medical treatment deemed necessary in the event of any injury or illness while participating in the activity including, but not limited

to, X-ray, examination, anesthetic, medical or surgical diagnosis, or treatment and hospital care which is deemed advisable by, and is to be rendered under the general or specific supervision of, any physician and/or surgeon licensed in the United States, or, if in a foreign country and no physician licensed to practice in the United States is reasonably available, by a duly licensed physician deemed competent to render the necessary care. In addition, the participant certifies that they have medical insurance which will cover personal accidents, medical expenses, medical evacuation, air ambulance, loss of effects, repatriation costs and all other expenses which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience occurring to the participant, or that in the absence of this medical insurance coverage, the participant agrees to pay all costs of rescue and/or medical services as may be incurred on the participant’s behalf.

Photography: National Geographic Expeditions, the Tour Operator, and the Expedition leader reserve the right to take photographs or videos during the operation of any Expedition or part thereof and to use the resulting photography, videos, or recordings for promotional or commercial use. By making a reservation on an Expedition, the participant agrees to allow his/her likeness to be used by National Geographic, National Geographic-authorized third parties, and the Tour Operator without compensation to the participant. If the participant prefers that his/her likeness not be used, he/she must notify National Geographic Expeditions and/or the Tour Operator in writing prior to departure of the Expedition.

Copyright in all photographs, video, and related materials created by the participant (“Expedition Materials”) will belong to the participant upon creation. The participant grants to National Geographic a non-exclusive, worldwide, irrevocable license to use any Expedition Materials provided to National Geographic and/or the Tour Operator in any media for the following limited purposes: editorial use, promotion of this editorial use, promotion of National Geographic’s travel programs, or promotion of the mission of National Geographic.

Assumption of Risk: By registering for an Expedition, the participant acknowledges that he/she is aware that travel such as the Expedition he/she is undertaking involves potentially dangerous activities, some in remote areas of the world, with a risk of illness, injury or death which may be caused by forces of nature, illness, or by willful or criminal conduct of third parties or by terrorism. The participant further acknowledges that weather conditions may be severe, adverse and/or unpleasant and that medical services or facilities may not be readily available or accessible or consistent with standards in the United States during some or all of the time during which he/she is participating on the Expedition and that when available may not be of the quality which exists in the United States.

Arbitration Agreement: Arbitration Agreement policy and process is available at natgeoexpeditions.com/terms

Privacy Policy: Our privacy policy can be found at nationalgeographic.com/community/privacy/ and natgeoexpeditions.in/privacy

Mailing List: If you are receiving duplicate catalogs, have address updates, or would like to be removed from future National Geographic Expeditions mailings, please call 9606060112/3.

Complete Terms: For the most complete and up-to-date National Geographic Terms and Conditions, please see natgeoexpeditions.com/terms

P H OTO C R E D I T S :

KEY: T=TOP, C=CENTER, B=BOTTOM, L=LEFT, R=RIGHT

Marc Cappelletti (126L); Ken Carlson (35B); Adrian Cerda (31B); Marvin

del Cid (28); Stewart Cohen (122T, 122CR); David Cothran (124); Paul

Cowan (59); Jennifer Davidson (13B); Jasper Doest (83T); Stephen

Emerson (49); Laura Farrell (105); Tim Greenleaf (10BC); Ralph Lee

Hopkins (3R, 31T, 31CR, 108T, 109T, 109B, 112T, penguin cover); Joshua

Howard (110BR); Jonathan Irish (87B); Scott Kish (10BL, 96); Lizard

Island Resort (103T); Richard Maack (130L); Jeff Mauritzen (35T); Joe

McDonald (113BL); Carlos J. Navarro (37); Flip Nicklin (111); Michael S.

Nolan (30T, 30B, 108B, 110, 112B, 113T); K Quin Paek (45); John Peter

(128R); Marco Ricca (123, 124B, 125); Joel Santos (20T); Southern Ocean

Lodge (11BR); Susan Seubert (38, 40); Tom Soucek (34T); Keren Su (19);

Monica and Michael Sweet (106); Rikki Swenson (126R); Gareth Tate

(20B); David Vargas (14, 36, 127L, 128L, 130R); Maureen Wambui (7);

Craig Wilson (124C); Art Wolfe (115)

©StudioPONANT-OlivierBlaud (14 expedition cruise) and all (16-31)

By registering for an Expedition, the participant certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for himself or herself or other participants. National Geographic Expeditions and theTour Operator reserve the right in their sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or remove any participant on an Expedition. National Geographic Expeditions and the Tour Operator reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their judgment, conditions warrant or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the participants.

Neither National Geographic, nor theTour Operator, will be liable for any air carrier's cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket to or from the participant's Expedition departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the participant.

© 2019 National Geographic Partners, LLC Printed on recycled paper.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPEDITIONS and the Yellow Border Design are trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license.

The applicable Terms and Conditions may vary based upon the specific Expedition selected by the participant. A copy of the final Terms and

Conditions applicable to each participant will be sent in pre-Expedition communications. All sets of Terms and Conditions for each Expedition type

can be found at https://www.natgeoexpeditions.in/terms-and-conditions/. All tours in this brochure will be booked by FCM Travel Solutions India

Pvt. Ltd\ Holidays, a trading name of FCM Travel Solutions India Pvt. Ltd. Terms and Conditions FCM Travel Solutions India Pvt. Ltd\ Holidays, a

trading name of FCM Travel Solutions India Pvt. Ltd.

T E R M S & C O N D I T I O N S


E X P E D I T I O N S C A L E N D A R

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MAR. APR. MAY JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR.

SECRET ISLANDS OF THE SEYCHELLES AND 30 EC 13 14 ALDABRA ATOLL

2 0 1 9 D E P A R T U R E D A T E S2 0 2 0

D E P A R T U R E D A T E S

E X P E D I T I O N C R U I S E S

A N T A R C T I C A

A L A S K A

S P I T S B E R G E N A N D G R E E N L A N D

T H E C A R I B B E A N A N D T H E I S L A N D S O F T H E AT L A N T I C O C E A N

O C E A N I A

T H E I N D I A N O C E A N

N O R T H A M E R I C A

ANCIENT CULTURES OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA 28 EC 11 6

AND PAPUA

FROM FIJI TO MICRONESIA 28 EC 16

FROM SCOTLAND TO SPITSBERGEN 24 EC 12

FROM THE NORWEGIAN SEA TO SPITSBERGEN 24 EC 12

GREENLAND AND NEWFOUNDLAND 25 EC 10

IN THE WAKE OF PIONEERS 22 EC 15 15

THE SEA OF OKHOTSK 22 EC 15

MAGNIFICENT VOLCANOES 23 EC 13

OF THE ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

FALKLAND ISLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA 18 EC 16 14

AND ANTARCTICA

THE ANTARCTIC ODYSSEY 18 EC 21 19

BEYOND THE POLAR CIRCLE 19 EC 17 15

FIORDLAND AND THE SUB ANTARCTIC 19 EC 15 2

ISLANDS EXPEDITION

FROM ANTARCTICA TO AFRICA 20 EC 22 25

EMBLEMATIC ANTARCTICA 20 EC 11 26

THE BIJAGOS ARCHIPELAGO AND CAPE VERDE 26 EC 12 24

ADVENTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN 26 EC 8 23

FERNANDO DE NORONHA AND THE BIJAGOS 27 EC 12 21

ARCHIPELAGO

ALASKA: DENALI TO KENAI FJORDS 32 L 8 5, 12 28 4

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK 33 L 7 6 3, 17 1, 7

CANADIAN ROCKIES BY RAIL AND TRAIL 34 T 8 8 12 2, 23

YELLOWSTONE AND GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARKS 35 L 8 1 27 24 4, 26

ARCHES, CANYONLANDS, AND MESA VERDE 36 L 7 21 5, 12 6, 13, 20

NATIONAL PARKS

GRAND CANYON, BRYCE CANYON, AND ZION 37 L 8 25 15 24 7, 21 5

WINTER WILDLIFE IN YELLOWSTONE 39 L 6 24, 30 5 16

S O U T H A M E R I C A

EXPLORING PATAGONIA 44 L 12 3 10, 22 28 13, 25 6, 22 5


* D e p a r t u re d at e s b eyo n d M a rc h 2 0 2 0 a re l i st e d o n t h e i t i n e ra r y p a g e s fo r t h e s e t r i p s .

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| EC = EXPEDITION CRUISE | J = PRIVATE JET | L = LAND | PH = PHOTO | PR = PRIVATE EXPEDITION | T = TRAIN

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A F R I C A

M I D D L E E A S T

E U R A S I A

E U R O P E

A S I A

P R I VA T E J E T

GEORGIA AND ARMENIA: CROSSROADS OF CONTINENTS* 58 L 11 13 18

TRANS-SIBERIAN RAIL EXPEDITION 60 T 16 4

THE HOLY LAND: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE* 56 L 11 6 14 9, 23 28 14

THE GREAT APES OF UGANDA AND RWANDA 47 L 11 16 20 3 29

ON SAFARI: TANZANIA'S GREAT MIGRATION 48 L 9 8, 22 12 2, 8 7 9, 30 19 16

MADAGASCAR WILDLIFE EXPEDITION 51 L 13 1 5 2, 16 7

KENYA: UP CLOSE WITH ELEPHANTS, RHINOS, 52 L 10 7 15

AND BIG CATS

MOROCCO: LEGENDARY CITIES AND THE SAHARA 54 L 12 16 13 12, 23 14

ICELAND: VOLCANOES, GLACIERS, AND WHALES 62 L 10 14 5, 26 23 7

IRELAND: TALES AND TREASURES OF THE EMERALD ISLE 63 L 10 21 30 27

NORWAY'S TRAINS AND FJORDS 64 T 11 12, 26 24 7

SWISS TRAINS AND THE ITALIAN LAKE DISTRICT 65 T 10 9, 16, 23 7, 21 4, 18 8

ITALY: RENAISSANCE CITIES AND TUSCAN LIFE 67 L 10 24 14 27 18

HUMAN ORIGINS: SOUTHWEST FRANCE 68 L 10 5 11 2, 9

AND NORTHERN SPAIN

SOUTHERN SPAIN AND MOROCCO EXPEDITION 69 L 14 7 22 20

GREECE: WONDERS OF AN ANCIENT EMPIRE 71 L 11 1 11, 25 16

INSIDE JAPAN 74 L 11 14 8 19 3

CHINA: IMPERIAL TREASURES AND NATURAL WONDERS 76 L 16 2, 23 1, 29

TIBET AND NEPAL: EXPEDITION TO THE HIGHEST HIMALAYA 79 L 15 20 28 15

BHUTAN: KINGDOM IN THE CLOUDS 80 L 11 11 1 6

VIETNAM, LAOS, AND CAMBODIA: 82 L 15 19 28 18 22

TREASURES OF INDOCHINA*

INDIA'S FABLED RAJASTHAN BY RAIL 84 T 11 21 27 2

AROUND THE WORLD BY PRIVATE JET 86 J 24 9 26

CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA BY PRIVATE JET 88 J 21 4


* D e p a r t u re d at e s b eyo n d M a rc h 2 0 2 0 a re l i st e d o n t h e i t i n e ra r y p a g e s fo r t h e s e t r i p s .

| EC = EXPEDITION CRUISE | J = PRIVATE JET | L = LAND | PH = PHOTO | PR = PRIVATE EXPEDITION | T = TRAIN

Contact our travel specialists by calling 9606060112/3,

Find more information online at NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.IN

E X P E D I T I O N S C A L E N D A R

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P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N S

P H O T O G R A P H Y E X P E D I T I O N S

BELIZE AND TIKAL PRIVATE EXPEDITION 38 PR 9

PERU PRIVATE EXPEDITION 40 PR 9

ECUADOR PRIVATE EXPEDITION 41 PR 11

COLOMBIA PRIVATE EXPEDITION 42 PR 10

PATAGONIA PRIVATE EXPEDITION 43 PR 10

AUSTRALIA PRIVATE EXPEDITION 46 PR 13

TANZANIA PRIVATE EXPEDITION 50 PR 9

MOROCCO PRIVATE EXPEDITION 55 PR 9

GREEK ISLES PRIVATE EXPEDITION 72 PR 9

JAPAN PRIVATE EXPEDITION 73 PR 10

CHINA PRIVATE EXPEDITION 78 PR 10

WINTER IN YELLOWSTONE PHOTO EXPEDITION 39 PH 6 22, 27 12, 25 22

TANZANIA PHOTO SAFARI 49 PH 9 4 12 8

MOROCCO PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION 54 PH 12 30 11 28 12

ITALY PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION 67 PH 10 12 6

INSIDE JAPAN PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION 75 PH 11 28 31

TIBET AND NEPAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION 79 PH 15 3

BHUTAN PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION 81 PH 11 18

INDIA BY RAIL PHOTOGRAPHY EXPEDITION 85 PH 11 18 30 3 23

Visit our website or call 9606060112/3 to request your preferred travel dates.


T R I P P L A N N E R


CHERRY BLOSSOMS FRAME SNOWCAPPED MOUNT FUJIPAGE 73

GEORGIA AND ARMENIA: CROSSROADS OF CONTINENTSPAGE 58

VIETNAM, LAOS, AND CAMBODIA: TREASURES OF INDOCHINAPAGE 83

CHAMPLAIN BEGEN: PONANT SHIPPAGE 14

| |T H E N AT I O N A L G E O G RA P H I C D I F F E R E N C E

AC C E S S | K N OW L E D G E | G I V E BAC K

CALL: 9606060112/3 | NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.IN

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