2021 • 2022

PROUDLY CELEBRATING OUR 34TH ANNIVERSARY WELCOME TO A WORLD OF EXOTIC ADVENTUREs FOR Travelers 50+ ELDERTREKS is the world's first adventure travel company designed exclusively for people 50 and over. Established in 1987, ElderTreks offers active, off-the-beaten-path, small-group adventures by both land and sea in over 100 countries. Our journeys focus on adventure, culture and nature.

Celebrating 34 years of Unforgettable Adventures! At ElderTreks we could not be more excited about celebrating 34 years of offering exotic adventures to some of the most remote and interesting places on Earth. More importantly, it is YOU, our loyal and valued travelers who keep coming back, that affirms we are doing something right. We will continue to share our travel philosophy and attitude with all who travel with ElderTreks while trying to leave a positive footprint, both culturally and environmentally. Our fascinating and exotic world is filled with endless adventures, whether it is an African safari, a tribal encounter, traveling to the land of the midnight sun in Iceland or hiking in the Himalayas. At ElderTreks, it is our hope that you can experience a few of these great adventures with us. With 34 years of experience, ElderTreks travels to over 100 different countries on every continent, including both polar regions. We have a few new and exciting land adventures including & Belarus, as well as our three-country journey to Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana known as the Guianas. Ask to talk to one of our staff for details about these new destinations. At ElderTreks, we travel in small groups led by experienced guides. We practice sustainable, responsible travel with a caring attitude. We support numerous charities and truly care about the preservation and impact we may have on the people and places we visit. We’ve built an orphanage in Uganda and are presently working on a project to help save Sumatran rhinos. It is our goal to open the door to some of the fascinating and wonderful places that our planet has to offer. Travel is our passion! We hope you will allow ElderTreks to share this passion with you as part of your next adventure. NATURALLY, YOU ARE INVITED.

Gary Murtagh President ElderTreks

Thank you to all who have given us photos from your ElderTreks adventures, participated in our annual photo contests, shared your photo albums with us on Facebook and to all others, who have posted their photographs online, to the public domain through Creative Commons licensing.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 2 Table of contents

INTRODUCTION TO ELDERTREKS ASIA AND THE SOUTH PACIFIC Great Reasons to Travel with ElderTreks ...... 6 The Caucasus (, & ) ...... 38 Adventure Travel Sri Lanka ...... 40 How to pick the right trip for you...... 7 Classic ...... 42 Transportation ...... 8 Lions and of India...... 44 Accommodations ...... 9 Mountains & Monasteries of Northern India Follow your leader ...... 10 (Ladakh, Dharamsala and the Golden Temple) ...... 46 Sustainability & Charity ...... 11 Bhutan, Sikkim & Darjeeling ...... 48 Nepal ...... 50 The Stans of (, , AFRICA AND THE MIDDLE EAST Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, ) ...... 52 Kingdoms of Southern Africa Japan...... 54 (South Africa, Swaziland & Lesotho) ...... 13 Chinese ...... 56 Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe Classic ...... 58 (Splendors of Southern Africa) ...... 14 Yunnan (China) ...... 60 Madagascar ...... 18 Mongolia ...... 62 Kenya & Tanzania ...... 20 ...... 64 Ethiopia ...... 22 ...... 66 Uganda & Rwanda ...... 24 ...... 68 Morocco ...... 26 Grand Southeast Asia Tunisia ...... 28 (, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam & )...... 70 Egypt ...... 30 Borneo ( - & )...... 72 ...... 32 () ...... 74 ...... 34 , Bali, & (Indonesia)...... 76 Jordan Extension ...... 36 Papua New Guinea ...... 78 Sailing French Polynesian Islands ...... 80 New Zealand ...... 82

3 THE AMERICAS ARCTIC Classic Cuba ...... 84 Introduction & Ship Info ...... 137 Eastern Cuba ...... 86 Northwest Passage: East to West ...... 138 Lost World of the Mayans Northwest Passage: West to East ...... 140 (Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras & Belize) ...... 88 Greenland and Wild Labrador ...... 142 Costa Rica ...... 90 Polar Bears of Churchill...... 144 Galapagos...... 92 Terms & Conditions ...... 146 Peru - Cultural Journey...... 94 Peru and Bolivia...... 96 Argentina and Chile ...... 98 Patagonia Trekking (Argentina and Chile) ...... 100 Hidden Treasures of South America (Argentina, Uruguay, Chile and Bolivia)...... 102 Wild Brazil ...... 104 The Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana)...... 106 Haida Gwaii by Sailboat (Formerly Queen Charlotte Islands) ...... 108 Heli-Hiking in the Canadian Rockies ...... 110 Circumnavigation of Newfoundland...... 112

EUROPE (Hungary and ) ...... 114 Medieval Treasures of Eastern Europe (Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland) ...... 116 Hiking in the Carpathians (Poland, Slovakia and )...... 118 St. Petersburg & the Baltics (Russia, Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia)...... 120 Russia & Belarus...... 122 Adriatic Adventure (Slovenia, Croatia, , Bosnia and Montenegro) ...... 124 , Bulgaria and Macedonia...... 126 Malta and Sicily...... 128 Ancient Greece...... 130 Hiking in the British Isles (Ireland, Scotland, Wales, & England) ...... 132 Iceland...... 134

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 4 5 We cater to people 50 and over the “Arrival Day”. Some tour companies include Guaranteed Trips! Travel with your peers on itineraries flying days, which means that 1, 2 or 3 days of Many of our departures are now guaranteed. designed with YOU in mind. Companions your trip are spent on an airplane. This falsely You can easily recognize our ‘guaranteed trips’ over 18 years of age are welcome. inflates the length of your trip, a practice that with this icon (indicated on our website). ElderTreks does not support. This allows you to plan your trip, including air 34 years of great adventures Hassle free — all-inclusive arrangements with complete confidence. Travel confidently, knowing that the Genuine travel experiences people facilitating your adventures are land packages veterans in the world of adventure travel. All meals, accommodation, domestic ElderTreks takes you off-the-beaten-path on carefully crafted itineraries that are Small group experience transportation, transfers to and from the airport on arrival and departure days, domestic departure unique and thoughtfully planned. Our goal Maximum group size on ElderTreks land taxes (for flights that are included with our land is not necessarily “5 star” accommodation, adventures is 16 — guaranteed! tour), entrance fees, bottled water and tips for but rather a “5 star” experience. We do The personal touch spot guides, drivers, and hotel and restaurant staff not support conveyor-belt tourism, where groups are pushed through a rigid itinerary We won’t force you to endure a pre-recorded are included. If there is the rare exception to this rule, it will be clearly noted. at the expense of spontaneity. Instead, we voice when you call us during business hours. bring you a genuine, one-of-a-kind travel You will speak to a real person. Great service Freedom to choose the airline and experience. and a great attitude are at the core of what routing of your choice we do. Sustainable, responsible travel It’s your choice to use your frequent flyer points, We support a number of development stop enroute, fly business class, arrive a few days ClubTrek Loyalty Program projects throughout the world and we make early, or extend your stay. We offer personalized We have created ClubTrek to thank you sure that you have close contact with local flight itineraries to suit your needs. for traveling with ElderTreks. You are people. During most of our programs, you automatically eligible for a 5% discount on Experts with first-hand will have the opportunity to visit schools future trips after you have traveled with us knowledge and orphanages, including the orphanage once. When you book a trip with us, you have access to sponsored by ElderTreks in Uganda. Expedition ships, not cruise ships people who are well traveled. You’ll deal directly Comfortable, charming (Capacity of 12 – 200 passengers) with experienced travel professionals who will accommodations answer all of your questions. On our ship-based adventures, we use We select hotels based on comfort, location expedition ships — not cruise ships. Smaller No mandatory single-supplement and charm with private bathrooms. Shared vessels allow for more personal interaction charge on land adventures bathrooms are only used where there is no and reduce our impact on the sites we visit. If you’re willing to share a room, there is no alternative and such exceptions are (Ship capacity is noted on the relevant trip page). additional charge. We don’t penalize single clearly noted. Our trip length reflects travelers — we welcome you. Outstanding guides! Land days only — not air days. This excludes all extensions, Heli-hiking, Polar Guides can make or break a trip and greatly Our stated trip lengths refer to land days Bears of Churchill, and Peru - Cultural Journey. affect the experience our travelers have — few only. ElderTreks’ “Day 1” always refers to things are more important. We pride ourselves on having guides who are second to none.

Social media eldertreks.com youtube.com/eldertreksvideo Stay up to date with ‘What’s New’, pinterest.com/ElderTreks find inspiration for a new trip facebook.com/ElderTreks or simply enjoy in sharing travel experiences with others. We invite twitter.com/ElderTreks you to connect with us:

6 Adventure travel is about traveling in small HIGH ELEVATION TRAVEL grades that can be slippery, depending on groups on active itineraries, often in remote, For high elevation trips we indicate the conditions. exotic locations. To help you decide if number of days where our travel takes us 3) Moderate: You must be able to adventure travel is right for you, please use in excess of 9,000 feet. If high elevation is hike up to 4 hours, often walking through the following criteria as a guide: of concern to you, please be aware that the archaeological sites, towns/cities and/or • Do you enjoy walking and outdoor activities? elevations can be much greater than 9,000 rainforests with varying levels of rugged • Are you curious and interested in learning feet. You can request a detailed itinerary or terrain. You must be able to walk at least about new environments, wildlife and call our office for further details on any high 3 miles (approx. 5 km) with various slope cultures? elevation trip. grades that can be slippery, depending on • Do you like to go off-the-beaten path? High elevation destinations can be among the conditions. • Do you enjoy meeting and traveling with most fascinating and rewarding experiences. 4) Moderately Challenging: You other people? However, the risks of altitude sickness are must be able to hike up to 5 hours, often • Do you savor travel to areas where physical real and can be serious. ElderTreks plans and walking through archaeological sites, towns/ and social conditions are different — runs our adventures with acclimatization cities and/or rainforests with varying levels sometimes very different — from those in in mind to minimize the effects of high of rugged terrain. You must be able to walk more developed countries? elevation. This does not remove personal at least 4 miles (approx 6 km) with various responsibility in terms of seeking advice from slope grades that can be slippery, depending If this sounds like your idea of travel, then we your doctor or travel clinic. on conditions. think you’ll love our adventures. If you have any further questions about adventure travel, SAFETY FIRST 5) Challenging: You must be able please call us. Your personal safety is our paramount to hike 5 OR MORE hours, often walking concern. Expert guides, proper equipment and through archaeological sites, towns/cities COMFORT LEVEL well-researched itineraries are the foundation and/or rainforests with varying levels of For each trip, you will find a description of of our adventures. Whether you’re in the Gobi rugged terrain. You must be able to walk at “comfort level”. Comfort levels are intended Desert of Mongolia or the rainforests of Costa least 5 miles (approx. 8 km) with various to provide you with an idea of how strenuous Rica, rest assured that safety is an integral slope grades that can be slippery, depending or easy a trip may be in terms of high element in the design of your trip. on conditions. altitude, road conditions and long drives. ACTIVITY LEVELS Please note: The challenging aspects of each Accommodations will have their own category. tour may vary based on many factors which Please use the following rating system as You will find a description of the comfort level can include but are not limited to: participants a GUIDELINE ONLY when choosing the for each adventure on the trip page in the physical fitness levels, seasonality, weather, proper trip for YOU based on your physical catalogue and on each detailed itinerary (not terrain, grade, duration and number of hike capabilities and your desire for physical including extensions). Please call our office opportunities. Based on these variables, it activity: if you would like a detailed itinerary for any is impossible to provide an absolute rating trip(s). 1) Easy: You must be able to hike up to 1 or system that works perfectly for all the tours 2 hours, often walking through archaeological we operate around the world. A NOTE ABOUT sites, towns/cities and/or rainforests with It is imperative that all tour participants EXPLORATORY TRIPS: varying levels of rugged terrain. You must are physically fit and can complete the trip be able to walk at least 1 mile (1.6 km) with on their own without assistance. If not, the Exploratory Trips are more adventurous various slope grades that can be slippery, tour leader has the sole right to dismiss you than our regular trips because some depending on conditions. from the trip (at your expense) as you could elements of the trip are designed as 2) Moderately Easy: You must be able compromise the safety and enjoyment for all the group travels. There are many to hike up to 3 hours, often walking through participants of the tour, including yourself. wonderful surprises, but you may also archaeological sites, towns/cities and/or experience unexpected challenges. If you have any concerns regarding Activity rainforests with varying levels of rugged These tours are best suited for active Levels or elevations, please contact our office terrain. You must be able to walk at least travelers who enjoy less structure and for more information. 2 miles (approx. 3 km) with various slope more exploration.

7 TRANSPORTATION: PRIVATE, COMFORTABLE & A LITTLE BIT WILD! With ElderTreks, you travel in private ground transportation on all land itineraries, allowing for flexibility and maximum spontaneity. We feel that getting there can also be half the fun! Part of the adventure is when you ride elephants, travel by camel, go on a riverboat safari or let the wind carry you across gentle waters under full sail. Below are examples of the various types of transportation that we use on our trips.

8 MEALS Food is an essential ingredient in our extensive menu of cultural experiences. We serve delicious, wholesome foods in settings that range from small, local eateries to elegant retreats. Our aim is to satisfy the food-lover in you while introducing you to the world’s diverse and exotic cuisines.

ACCOMMODATIONS One of the most important elements of any trip is where you rest your head at night. ElderTreks normally uses comfortable, well- located accommodations with private bathroom facilities. If there are any exceptions to this rule, these nights are clearly marked. In big cities we sometimes use larger hotels but usually we try to use accommodations which reflect the local culture, offer great service, allow you to relax and simply savor your travel experience.

9 Follow Your Leader

JOIN YOUR FAVORITE TOUR LEADER ON YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

Go to our website and click on Tour Leaders on the side bar or go to Dedication, organization, experience and a caring attitude toward www.eldertreks.com/leaders.php for each tour leaders’ bio and a list our travelers and the communities that we visit are at the heart of of trips assigned to YOUR FAVORITE TOUR LEADER(S). ElderTreks’ philosophy.`

Roger Douglas Sumit Pruthi Eddi Suzanne Burrows Brisebois Iran, Oman, Novra Ivan Europe, Asia, Europe, Asia, Laos Indonesia (Manka) Africa, Africa, Middle Europe Middle East East, Americas

Tomas Damla Daniel Sahil Abdul Havlicek Arslan Merino Chowfla Sebak Europe Cuba India, Tibet, Egypt, Nepal Middle East

Sammy Vivek Atsuko Karl Helen Tait Tilahun Paliwal Iketsu Johannsson New Zealand Ethiopia India Japan Iceland

Nitin Guilherme Eric Claire Abel Peña Dhami Stamato Fengler Prest Cuba Asia, Papua “Gafa” Latin America, Asia, Europe, New Guinea, Brazil, Asia, Europe Africa Africa Latin America

Christos Joel Lucas Lajos Dylan Lees Lepouras Verimuje Mhina Nemeth Africa Greece Africa East Africa Asia, Africa, Europe

Gabriel Guiper Martin Zanarison Thuy Barok Rosales Hrouzek ‘Jeff ’ Nghiem Spain Central Eastern Zephyrin Vietnam America Europe Madagascar

Lily Li Manuel Ruwan David Ham China Velazco Balasuriya Roth Juuko Latin America Sri-Lanka Asia, Africa, Uganda, Latin America East Africa

Samir Thuyein Olman Andrew Udaya Harit “Turin” Tun Quiros Davies Sherchand Morocco Maw Central British Isles Nepal Myanmar America

View our website to see which of our great tour leaders is leading your adventure. www.eldertreks.com/leaders

10 CHARITIES Mongolia and Pakistan as well as schools in SUSTAINABILITY In 2016, ElderTreks began a mission to Vietnam, Yunnan, Tibet and Tanzania. The • On our land-based adventures, group sizes do help save the Sumatran rhino and is an on many ways that we have given assistance not exceed 16 travelers. By traveling in smaller going project to help save the world’s most include donations of clothes, food, clean groups, the social and physical impacts are endangered large animal. drinking water, school supplies and financial minimized. aid; we continuously help to protect the • In 2012, to mark our 25th Anniversary, local flora and fauna. • On our ship-based adventures, we use Eldertreks built an orphanage in Uganda expedition style ships — not cruise ships. which is run by a remarkable Canadian In Laos, ElderTreks sponsored book parties, Smaller vessels reduce our impact on the sites woman, Carli Travers. Carli and her for much needed books in rural schools. we visit. ElderTreks helped bring a little girl from Ugandan husband give love and hope to • We facilitate meaningful, non-exploitive children who would otherwise have neither. Vietnam to the U.S. for reconstruction facial surgery. Today, Nhi’s smile says it all. exchanges between our travelers and local To find out more or to donate, visit Also in Vietnam, we worked with a unique people. www.abetavu.org. grassroots initiative to provide wheelchairs • We work with local businesses and smaller • ElderTreks supports orphanages, for handicapped children. hotels or guest houses wherever possible. schools, villages and conservation groups • ElderTreks supported the Parkinson • We visit important natural areas, helping throughout the world. We have built two Society of Canada. For 5 years, ElderTreks to demonstrate that sensitive tourism can homes for abandoned women and children donated the Grand Prize draw for the provide a viable alternative to natural resource in Madagascar. We support orphanages annual Parkinson’s Superwalk. depletion. in India, China, Madagascar, Turkey,

ElderTreks supports Carli’s orphanage in Uganda

11

Kingdoms of Southern Africa South Africa, Swaziland & zambia Lesotho

kruger n.p. Daily Itinerary mapumalanga Arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa Superb game viewing, fascinating tribal cultures, hartbeespoort Day 1: johannesburg swaziland Day 2: De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Center stunning scenery and visits to three southern harrismith hluhluwe Day 3: Pretoria City Sites, Misty Mountain, African countries make this journey a truly unique imfolozi n.p. South African Natural Heritage Site, to adventure. Learn about the Swazi, Zulu and south durban africa Mapumalanga Basotho tribes. Travel through South Africa and the lesotho robben cape stellen- Day 4: Timbavati Safari Lodge - Evening Kingdoms of Swaziland and Lesotho. Enjoy South island town bosch tsitsikamma n.p. oudtshoorn Game Drive/Sundowner Africa’s most famous national parks teaming with knysna Day 5: Kruger National Park - Full Day pointcape wildlife. Safari Beginning in Hartbeespoort, we visit the De Wildt Day 6: To Swaziland, Mlilwane Wildlife Fact File Sanctuary, Bush Walk, Swazi Chief Visit Cheetah and Wildlife Center before traveling to world-famous Kruger National Park in search of the • 25 land days Day 7: Kingdom of Swaziland, Royal • Maximum 16 travelers National Park “Big Five” - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos. • Start in Johannesburg and finish in Cape Day 8: Return to South Africa- Zululand Town, South Africa Day 9: iSimangaliso Wetland Park (UNESCO) Visit the Kingdom of Swaziland, with its • All meals included Day 10: Full Day Safari in Hluhluwe mountainous grandeur, lush forests and game Imfolozi Park viewing in Royal Hlane National Park. Spend an Highlights Day 11: To Kloof, Durban afternoon with a female Swazi chief and learn • Visit 3 African countries Day 12: Drakensberg Escarpment, Oaklands about their culture, including the energetic Sibhaca • Learn about and enjoy cheetahs up Day 13: Drakensberg Mountains and Zulu Dance. Encounter the Zulu, visit St. Lucia Wetlands close and at full speed at De Wildt Communities and Hluhluwe, famous for its success with rhino Cheetah Center Day 14: To the Kingdom of Lesotho breeding. Ramabanta • Jeep Safaris in Kruger, Timbavati Day 15: In the Kingdom of Lesotho, visit a Basotho Cultural Private Reserve, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Day 16: Return to Graaff-Reinet, South Village and hike to the beautiful Botso’ela Waterfall. Africa via the Roma Plateau (highest concentration of rhinos Drive into the “Karoo” and the town of Graaff- Day 17: Graaff-Reinet, Valley of Desolation Reinet, known for its national monuments. Hike in the world) and Swaziland Royal in the Great Karoo to the viewpoint of the awe-inspiring Valley of National Park Day 18: Tsitsikamma National Park, The Desolation before overnighting in Karoo National • Visit the Kingdoms of Swaziland & Garden Route Park. Drive through Tsitsikamma Coastal National Lesotho Day 19: Knysna - Featherbed Park and along the Garden Route, including a boat • Participate in Swazi culture at trip from Knysna to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. Umphakatsi Day 20: To Oudtshoorn - Ostrich Farm, Cango Caves From Cape Town, visit Cape Point as well as Robben • Mlilwane Wildlife Bush Walk Island and enjoy the view atop Table Mountain, Day 21: To Cape Town reached by cable car. • See the Valley of Desolation in the Day 22: Table Mountain, Robben Island Karoo National Park Day 23: Coastal Drive to Cape Point, Good Our three-country journey concludes in stunning • Visit Ladysmith in the Free State and Hope Nature Reserve Cape Town, the perfect place to raise a glass of South the battlefields of the Anglo-Boer Day 24: Stellenbosch, Wine Tour African wine with a toast to this superb adventure. War Day 25: Depart Cape Town, South Africa • Learn about Swazi, Zulu and Basotho Departure Dates & Prices tribes Sep 23 – Oct 17, 2021 - $7495 USD • See 200 million year old dinosaur Sep 09 – Oct 03, 2022 - $7495 USD footprints

• Drive the Garden Route to Cape ACTIVITY LEVEL: 2 Town COMFORT LEVEL: Some long drives and bumpy roads. • Drive to the Cape of Good Hope • Enjoy South African wines in Accommodations Stellenbosch Comfortable hotels/lodges, all with private • Enjoy the sites of Cape Town washrooms. Four nights are basic with generators and limited electricity. Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 13 Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe Splendors of Southern Africa

Encounter the magic of Southern Africa - superb In Botswana, the Okavango Delta is a huge safaris, massive sand dunes, fascinating tribes, vast natural wetland region that attracts abundant bird deltas and thundering waterfalls. The countries of and wildlife. We explore the Delta on foot, by dugout Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe offer incredible canoe poled by local boatmen, and then get a bird’s diversity and adventure. eye view of this vast green wilderness during an exciting Delta flight. We’ll search for elephant herds, Beginning in Windhoek, Namibia, we set out to rhinos and lions and much more in Chobe National explore the highest sand dunes in the world, 1,000 Park. ft high Sossusvlei Dunes, which will leave you in awe. Enjoy a scenic flight over the Skeleton Coast Feel the raging torrents of Victoria Falls, known and safari game viewing opportunities in Namibia’s as the “Smoke That Thunders”. Reflect on the premier Etosha National Park. Cultural highlights wonders of our Southern Africa safari during a include meeting the fascinating Bushmen and the leisurely sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. We remote Himba and Zemba tribes. conclude our trip in spectacular Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

14 Activity Level: 2 Daily Fact File Itinerary • 23 land days Day 1: Arrive in • Maximum 16 travelers Windhoek, Namibia • Start in Windhoek, Namibia, finish in Day 2: To Sesriem Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Day 3: Sossusvlei - • All meals included World’s Highest Sand • Includes 2 internal flights Dunes Highlights Day 4: Namib- Naukluft N.P. & • Climb the Sossusvlei Dunes Kuiseb Canyon, to • Scenic flight over the Skeleton Coast Swakopmund • Encounter the tribal Himba, Zemba Day 5: Scenic Flight Days 12: Etosha National Park & Bushmen Over the Skeleton Coast Day 13: Etosha National Park • Safari in Etosha and Chobe National Day 6: To Damaraland: Bushman Rock Day 14: To Guest Farm Parks Paintings, Petroglyphs, Petrified Forest Day 15: Bushmen Experience • Explore the Okavango Delta by Day 7: Desert Elephants dugout canoe and flight Day 16: Bushmen Village, Sunset Cruise • Zambezi sunset cruise Day 8: To Opuwo, Kaokoland Days 17-18: To Okavango Delta, Botswana • See Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Day 9: Himba and Zemba Tribes Day 19: Fly Over the Delta to Chobe N.P. Day 10: Towards Etosha Day 20: Chobe National Park Game Drives Day 11: Etosha National Park Day 21: To Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Day 22: Victoria Falls - Stanley & Livingston Historian/Storyteller, Zambezi Sunset Cruise Day 23: Depart Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Departure Dates & Prices Jun 07 - Jun 29, 2021 - $9895 USD Nov 05 - Nov 27, 2021 - $9895 USD Jun 08 - Jun 30, 2022 - $9895 USD Comfort Level Some rough/dusty roads and long drives. Accommodations Comfortable hotels/lodges with private bathrooms. Extension Cape Town 5 land days: Start and finish in Cape Town. Price: $1895 USD

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 15

Land of the lemurs

Madagascar is like no other place on Earth! Eighty In Isalo National Park, we encounter wildlife while percent of its flora and fauna are found nowhere exploring grassy plains and sandstone ridges (with else. With over 100 different species and sub-species fanciful hoodoos). Enroute to Berenty Reserve, we of lemurs, 108 endemic birds, unusual plant life, a explore the Antanosy tombs. In the park, we wander fascinating culture of 18 distinct tribes, plus strong through spiny forests, famous for their varied and Indo-Malay and French influences, Madagascar is an abundant wildlife. See ringtail lemurs, sifakas and ideal destination for the adventure traveler. nocturnal lemurs - and if we’re fortunate, we may see striped civets and flying foxes! The journey starts in Antananarivo with a city tour, followed by a visit to Ambohimanga, where We wrap up our adventure with a day of bird, former Merina monarchs had their summer palaces. lemur and reptile viewing in Analamazaotra Special Our journey continues to Ranomafana, known for its Reserve (Perinet) before our return to Antananarivo. thermal baths and a namesake national park, where we search for lemurs and endemic bird species in a lush rainforest.

18 Includes World Famous Berenty Reserve

Activity Level: 3 Day 5: Ranomafana Rainforest Day 6: To Fianarantsoa perinet Fact File Day 7: Anja Park Hike, to Isalo • 18 land days Day 8: Isalo National Park • Maximum 16 travelers Day 9: To Tulear • All meals included Day 10: Fly to Fort Dauphin, • Start and finish in Antananarivo Nahampoana Reserve • Includes 2 internal flights Days 11-12: Berenty Reserve - Highlights Madagascar’s Premier Reserve Day 13: Berenty, to Fort Dauphin • Wildlife hikes in Berenty Reserve Day 14: Fly to Antananarivo and the national parks of Day 15: To Analamazaotra Special Ranomafana and Isalo Reserve (Perinet) • Home to 18 different tribes Analamazaotra Special Reserve • Native species (such as lemurs) Day 16: found nowhere else on Earth Day 17: Andasibe to Antananarivo • Enjoy the culture and scenery of Day 18: Depart Antananarivo the highlands and lowlands of Departure Dates & Prices Madagascar May 03 - May 20, 2021 - $7495 USD • Bird, lemur and reptile viewing in Analamazaotra Special Reserve Oct 03 - Oct 20, 2021 - $7495 USD (Perinet) May 04 - May 21, 2022 - $7495 USD Oct 04 - Oct 21, 2022 - $7495 USD Daily Itinerary Comfort Level Day 1: Arrive in Antananarivo Day 2: Antananarivo Some rough/dusty roads and long drives. Day 3: Madagascar Highlands Accommodations Day 4: To Ranomafana Rainforest via Comfortable hotels/lodges with private Ambositra bathrooms.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 19 Kenya AND Tanzania

The great parks of East Africa - the crater is home to over 20,000 large animals Serengeti, Maasai Mara, Tarangire and including some of Tanzania’s last remaining the Ngorongoro Crater offer a unique and black rhinos. Tarangire’s open savannah with overwhelming wildlife safari experience its primeval baobab trees is filled with roaming that is simply unequaled. The Maasai Mara herds of elephants and an impressive array of and Serengeti are arguably the most famous predators. game parks in the world and home to the Enjoy tribal encounters with the Maasai greatest wildlife migration on Earth. Millions and the nomadic bushmen, which are truly of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross unforgettable experiences. Our safari concludes crocodile-infested rivers and are hunted by in historic Stone Town, Zanzibar. lions, leopards, and cheetahs in a spectacle of survival to reach greener pastures. Our views of Ngorongoro Crater are unforgettable. The

20 Nomadic “bushman” hunter

Activity Level: 2 Daily Itinerary LX\H[VY ‡ Z^LL[^H[LYZ Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi, Kenya YLZLY]L Fact File UHP]HZOH Day 2: Karen Blixen Museum, to • 20 land days THHZHPTHYH Sweetwaters Reserve SHRL UW • Maximum 16 travelers ]PJ[VYPH UHPYVIP Day 3: Sweetwaters and Chimpanzee • Start in Nairobi, Kenya and finish in ZLYLUNL[P RLU`H Sanctuary UW Stone Town, Zanzibar Day 4: To Lake Naivasha UNVYVUNVYV T[ • All meals included JYH[LY RPSPTHUQHYV • Includes 1 internal flight Day 5: To Maasai Mara National Park SHRL HY\ZOH L`HZP SHRL Highlights Day 6: Maasai Mara National Park THU`HYH To the Serengeti, Tanzania • Safaris in Maasai Mara, Lake Day 7: [HYHUNPYLUW Naivasha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti Day 8-9: Wildlife Viewing in the Serengeti (UNESCO), Tarangire and [HUaHUPH Ngorongoro Crater (UNESCO) Day 10: Ngorongoro Crater and Olduvai • Search for elephants, lions, rhinos, Gorge hippos, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater aHUaPIHY gazelles, wildebeest and other wildlife Day 12: Lake Eyasi Bushman • Visit Maasai and nomadic Bushmen Experience • See Mt. Kilimanjaro (weather Day 13: Mto Wa Mbu Village Visit Departure Dates & Prices permitting) Day 14: To Tarangire • Optional Serengeti balloon ride Oct 30 – Nov 18, 2021 - $8695 USD • See Olduvai Gorge Day 15: Safari in Tarangire National Oct 29 – Nov 17, 2022 - $8695 USD • Zanzibar, the spice island Park Day 16: To Arusha, Fly to Zanzibar Comfort Level Day 17: Nungwi Beach Some rough/dusty roads and long drives. Day 18: Explore Historic & Cultural Zanzibar Accommodations Day 19: Sights and Sounds of Stone Comfortable hotels/lodges with private Town, Dhow Sunset Sailing bathrooms. Features 5 or more nights in Day 20: Depart Zanzibar semi-permanent tented camps.

Serengeti Balloon Safari Option View the Serengeti from the dream-like perspective of a hot- air balloon. Sail through the warm air on a sunrise balloon ride and celebrate with a champagne breakfast.

Price: from $650 USD

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 21 Ethiopia

Few places offer such a myriad of experiences for the churches carved out of pink granite that date back to the traveler as Ethiopia. Much of the fascination of this country 12th century. We visit Axum, home of the Queen of Sheba lies in its many historical sites. According to legend, the first in the 10th century, where we see the stelae and some of Ethiopian king, Menelik, was the son of the biblical King the crowns of former kings. Axum is also reputed to be the Solomon and the Queen of Sheba! Ethiopia also has nine resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. national parks, protecting many of its endemic species. The ancient tribal culture compliments the unique history and Returning to our base in Addis Ababa, we then head to nature of Ethiopia. Experience tribal cultures such as the the tribal south, into the Omo Valley. We take a boat trip on Hamer, the Mursi and the Dorze, whose traditional lifestyle Lake Chamo for crocodile and hippo spotting and then visit is a stark contrast to our modern life. a Konso village. We explore Ethiopia, using the capital of Addis Ababa Our journey takes us into the region of the Mursi people, as our base. We travel to the historic north to see the Blue whose women have the practice of using disks to expand Nile Falls before taking a boat journey across the Blue Nile. their lower lip. We go “off-roading” to the River Omo, then We visit a monastery church on Lake Tana before traveling on to Turmi to visit the Hamer and other Indigenous tribes. to Gondar, our base for exploring the incredibly scenic We travel up through the Rift Valley, concluding our journey Simien Mountains. We explore Lalibela and the monolithic back in Addis Ababa.

22 Activity Level: 3 Day 4: Gondar Sightseeing, to Simien H_\T Fact File Mountains Day 5: Simien Mountains NVUKHY • 23 land days ZPTPLUT[ Day 6: To Axum UW • Maximum 16 travelers Axum, City Sights • All meals included Day 7: SHRL [HUH SHSPILSH • Start and finish in Addis Ababa Day 8: Fly to Lalibela and the Northern IHOPYKHY • Includes 3 internal flights Churches Day 9: Lalibela ,;/0670( Highlights Day 10: Fly to Addis Ababa • Visit 5 UNESCO Sites IS\LUPSL Day 11: Addis Ababa Sites HKKPZHIHIH • Explore the monastery churches of Day 12: Lake Langano Lake Tana SHRL • Hike in the stunning Simien Moun- Day 13: To Arba Minch SHUNHUV tains Day 14: Dorze Visit, Lake Chamo VTV H^HZH • Visit the monolithic churches of Day 15: Arba Minch, to Jinka YP]LY SHRL HIH`H Lalibela Day 16: Mursi Tribal Encounter VTV UW QPURH HYIH • Visit the sites in Axum and Gondar Day 17: Hamer Village Visit, to Turmi TPUJO • Omo Valley Murele, Omo Bend and Day 18: SHRLJOHTV • Encounter the Mursi, Karo, Hamer Karo People T\YPSL RVUZV and Dorze tribes [\YTP Day 19: To Arba Minch ZVTHSPH Daily Itinerary Day 20: Shenkele Game Reserve, Awasa RLU`H Day 1: Arrive in Addis Ababa Day 21: Fish Market and Lake Awasa Departure Dates & Prices Day 2: Fly to Bahir Dar and Day 22: Addis Ababa the Blue Nile Day 23: Depart Addis Ababa *Jan 11 - Feb 02, 2021 - $7595 USD Day 3: To Gondar *Jan 15 - Feb 06, 2021 - $7595 USD **#Sep 14 - Oct 06, 2021 - $7595 USD #Sep 16 - Oct 08, 2021 - $7595 USD *Jan 11 - Feb 02, 2022 - $7595 USD *Jan 15 - Feb 06, 2022 - $7595 USD #Sep 16 - Oct 08, 2022 - $7595 USD

* Festival of Timket in Gondar #Meskel Festival in Addis Ababa **Runs in reverse order

Note: The daily itinerary shown here is for the January, Timket Festival departures. The Meskel festival itinerary varies very slightly from days 2-12. COMFORT LEVEL 5 days over 9,000 feet. Some rough/dusty roads and long drives. Accommodations Comfortable hotels in the north and the south, but the accommodations in the south are more basic. All have private bathrooms.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 23 Uganda & RWANDA

Mountain Gorilla - Silverback, the alpha male

Uganda & Rwanda are truly an unforgettable experience! to see the tree-climbing lions perched in the fig trees. Trekking through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda) to Enjoy several boat excursions on the Nile while searching spend time with the rare mountain gorillas must rank as for hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife. Journey to one of the greatest wildlife encounters one can experience. thunderous Murchison Falls and the Delta to search for the Equally enthralling are the 2 encounters with chimpanzees magnificent, massive and rare shoebill stork. Journey across at Ngamba Island, a sanctuary on Lake Victoria, and Kibale, the equator and visit the Great East Rift Valley. known for its abundant primate population including red-tail monkeys, olive baboons, black and white colobus and red While in Rwanda, we visit Volcanoes National Park, which colobus monkeys. is home to the golden monkeys as well as several gorilla families. We continue to Kigali where we visit several sites, Uganda offers much more than gorilla and chimpanzee including the Genocide Museum. trekking. In Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can view lions, elephants, Not only does Uganda & Rwanda offer an incredible giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, topis and hartebeests, wildlife experience, but it is also culturally rich, and has not to mention over 1,000 different bird species including arguably the friendliest people in all of Africa. Journey to this the impressive grey crowned crane, the national bird of unique land of impressive wildlife, welcoming people and a Uganda. Continuing to Ishasha, we have a rare opportunity great ape experience like no other on Earth.

24 Gorilla and Chimpanzee encounters

Activity Level: 2/5 Daily Itinerary murchison Call our office for details. Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe falls N.P. Day 2: Botanical Gardens & Ngamba Fact File Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary • 18 land days Day 3: To Kampala, Abetavu Children’s • Maximum 16 travellers Village victoria • Start in Entebbe, Uganda, finish in Day 4: Rhino Sanctuary, to Murchison nile Kigali, Rwanda Falls N.P kibale • All meals included forest ziwa rhino Day 5: Murchison Falls, Game Drives n. p. sanctuary Highlights Day 6: Murchison Falls, Delta & Game kampala Drives queen entebbe • Trek and search for mountain gorillas Day 7: To Kibale 0° elizabeth n. p. ngamba • Search for elephants, lions, rhinos, Day 8: Chimp Trekking island hippos, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes ishasha Day 9: To Queen Elizabeth National lake and other wildlife Park victoria bwindi • Enjoy safaris in Murchison Day 10: To Ishasha n. p. Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Day 11: Ishasha, Search for Tree- Impenetrable Forest (UNESCO) and Climbing Lions Volcanoes Volcanoes National Park n. p. Day 12: To Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Kigali • Enjoy Kibale NP and Ngamba Island Day 13: Gorilla Trekking - Bwindi Chimpanzee Sanctuary Day 14: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest • Search for the massive, rare shoebill Day 15: To Rwanda Ishasha - Famous for it’s • Search for tree-climbing lions in Day 16: Golden Monkeys Trekking (or tree climbing lions Ishasha optional Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes • Visit a rhino sanctuary National Park) Day 17: Kigali Day 18: Depart Kigali Departure Dates & Prices Jan 18 - Feb 04, 2021 - $9995 USD Jan 13 - Jan 30, 2022 - $9995 USD Note: Price does not include gorilla, chimp and golden monkey permits. Comfort Level Long drives on rough and dusty roads. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking involves hiking/climbing over some rough and dense terrain. Gorilla trekking will likely be 2-6 hours. Accommodations Comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms.

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Known to the Arabs as al-Maghreb al-Aqsa, or the with a traditional feast and Berber folklore. farthest land of the setting sun, Morocco stands at the western edge of the Arab and Muslim world. Separated Traveling west, our next destination is the Todra from Europe by just nine miles at the Strait of Gibraltar, Gorge, a striking natural wonder with 1,000-foot walls Morocco is both a crossroads and a frontier state, as it has which narrow to just 30 feet apart at one point. Through been since the 11th century, when it became the gateway the Dades Valley, set amidst the snow-capped High Atlas for Islam’s most successful advance upon Western Europe. Mountains, we travel on to Ouarzazate along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” and continue to the historic city of We start in Casablanca and travel to one of Morocco’s Taroudant. greatest charms - the labyrinths of the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes and Fes. We continue across the Middle Our last week is a journey through the seldom-visited Atlas Mountains to Erfoud, where we reach the sands of Anti-Atlas Mountains in the south to Tafraout. We visit the Sahara and witness the sunrise over the dunes. Here the historic fortifications of Essaouira, a lovely coastal we experience a touch of nomadic Berber life, as we ride town and a favorite hideaway of Orson Welles. camels with the local tribesmen into the majestic solitude We finish in Casablanca after enjoying an overland of the Sahara Desert. We enjoy a night in Berber tents journey from Marrakech.

26 SPAIN

GIBRALTAR Activity Level: 2 Rabat, Meknes, Fes and Marrakech Fact File • Relax in the seaside fortress of Essaouira • See 1,000 ft walls of the Todra Gorge CASABLANCA RABAT • 17 land days atlantic MEKNES ocean FES • Maximum 16 travelers Daily Itinerary • Start and finish in Casablanca Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca ESSAOUIRA MOROCCO • All meals included Day 2: Casablanca and Rabat marrakech Day 3: Medieval City of Fes todra Highlights Day 4: Roman Ruins of Volubilis and gorge ERFOUD • Berber camping adventure TAROUDANT Meknes OUARZAZATE • Enjoy a golden Saharan sunrise and Day 5: Traverse the Mountains to the MERZOUGA camel safari Sahara • Roman ruins of Volubilis (UNESCO) Day 6: Erfoud, Camel Safari, Berber • Traverse the Middle, High and Anti- Experience & Overnight in the Sahara Day 8: Ouarzazate Atlas Mountains Day 7: Golden Saharan Sunrise, Todra Day 9: To Taroudant • Visit the medieval imperial cities of Gorge Day 10: Taroudant Day 11: Coastal Drive to Essaouira Day 12: Essaouira, Fortress on the Sea Day 13: The Road to Marrakech Day 14: Marrakech Sites Day 15: Hike in the High Atlas Mountains Day 16: Return to Casablanca Day 17: Depart Casablanca Departure Dates & Prices

Mar 18– Apr 03, 2021 - $4995 USD Apr 05 – Apr 22, 2021 - $4995 USD Oct 09 – Oct 25, 2021 - $4995 USD Mar 16– Apr 01, 2022 - $4995 USD Oct 07 – Oct 23, 2022 - $4995 USD Comfort Level Some long drives. Accommodations Comfortable hotels with private bathrooms. 1 night of camping with shared facilities.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 27 Tunisia

Tataouine

Despite its small size, Tunisia is a country of Roman ruins on the continent. Gazing at the that has played a significant role in world desert sands beneath the Mediterranean sun, it history. Less than 100 miles from Italy, Tunisia’s is hard to believe that anyone could live here, yet strategic location on the southern shore of the humans have been inhabiting the Tozeur oasis Mediterranean has inspired the Phoenicians, for over 10,000 years. Nowhere else can one fully Romans, Vandals, Arabs, Ottomans and French grasp a sense of the country’s lengthy history to locate here. than at the National Bardo Museum in Tunis, home to some of the most significant artifacts The underground dwellings and sun-baked from the Carthaginian, Roman, Christian and landscapes led movie director George Lucas to -Islamic eras. film his science fiction epic Star Wars here, and the well-preserved Roman ruins at El Jem are With its wind-swept landscapes, coastal sure to inspire the hidden archaeologist in you. beaches, immense Roman ruins and desert oases nestled amongst the vast dunes of the Tunisia is home to the ancient Phoenician Sahara, Tunisia is a land of adventure that offers trading city of Carthage and the best collection something magical for every traveler.

28 Activity Level: 1 Day 12: El Jem Amphitheater, Mahdia Fact File Day 13: Monastir Fort, Sousse Medina • 16 land days and Fort • Maximum 16 travelers Day 14: Takrouna - Berber Village, • Start and finish in Tunis Ruins of the Aqueducts, to Tunis • All meals included Day 15: National Bardo Museum, City Tour Highlights Day 16: Depart Tunis • Visit the National Bardo Museum • Travel to Carthage Departure Dates & Prices • See ancient medinas and mosques Mar 02 - Mar 17, 2021 - $4295 USD • Discover underground Berber Mar 01 - Mar 16, 2022 - $4295 USD homes Comfort Level • Journey by jeep through the desert to the visit the landscape Some long drives. that inspired George Lucas to film Star Wars here Accommodations • Visit the Island of Jerba Comfortable hotels with private • Explore the Roman amphitheater bathrooms. at El Jem

Daily Itinerary Roman ruins of Arrive in Tunis Day 1: Dougga Day 2: Carthage, Sidi Bou Said Day 3: Dougga, Bulla Regia, to Tabarka Day 4: To Ain Draham, Hike in the Kroumirie Mountains or Relax in Tabarka Day 5: To Kairouan, the Great Mosque Day 6: To Tozeur via Sbeitla Roman Ruins and Gafsa Day 7: Jeep Trip to Ong Jmal (Star Wars Set) Day 8: To Douz via Chott El Jerid Salt Lake Day 9: Ksours of Tataouine, to Jerba Day 10: Jerba, Matmata Day 11: Sfax, Gabes, Mahdia

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 29 The Great Pyramids of Giza guarded by the Sphinx; roading in the sand dunes of the Great Sand Sea. Visit the the Valley of the Kings; the great Temples of Abu Simbel, surreal landscape in the Valley of the Whales (UNESCO), Karnak and Luxor - mere words do not adequately describe where 40 million year old fossils prove that the ancestors these ancient wonders. As rulers of the ancient world of whales once lived on land due to remnants of 4 limbs. for over 2,500 years, Egypt’s legacy of earthly power and divine afterlife is unrivaled. The once powerful pharaohs Enjoy the impressive Ramses II temple at Abu Simbel. would have it no other way. Cruise the Nile from Aswan to Luxor during our 3-night stay onboard a 5-star cruise boat and visit several Starting in , the Antiquities Museum is the perfect impressive ancient temple sites. Enjoy Nubian, Bedouin introduction to Egypt’s impressive history. Visit the and Berber culture, dance and feasts. Journey by camel to Hanging Church, the world-famous Khan el Khalili Bazaar, a Coptic monastery. Visit King Tut’s tomb and the Valley and the 9th century Ben Ezra Synagogue and the spring of the Kings. Relax on the Red Sea in Sharm el Sheikh and beside it, where Moses was found in the reeds. Explore the visit St. Catherine’s 4th century monastery (UNESCO), the Great Pyramids of Giza and Saqqara. Visit Alexandria, the site of Moses and the burning bush. Return to Cairo, for historic city named after Alexander the Great and ruled your farewell dinner and departure. by Cleopatra. Explore the idyllic Oasis of Siwa and go off-

30 Activity Level: 2 Day 14: Fly to Abu Simbel, Ramses II Temple, Board Our HSL_HUKYPH Fact File Nile 5-Star Standard Cruise JHPYV • 22 land days Boat W`YHTPKZ Day 15: Cruise Along the Nile; ZP^HVHZPZ • Maximum 16 travelers ]HSSL`VM TLTWOPZ Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples [OL^OHSLZ • Start and finish in Cairo Z[JH[OLYPUL»Z • All meals included Day 16: Karnak and Luxor TVUHZ[LY` Temples ZOHYT • Includes 4 internal flights LS Day 17: The Valley of the UPSL ZOLPRO Highlights Kings, King Tut’s Tomb ]HSSL` • Visit 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Day 18: Fly to Sharm El VM[OLRPUNZ • The Great Pyramids of Giza and Sheikh Saqqara Day 19: Sharm El Sheikh LN`W[ S\_VY Day 20: St Catherine’s • 4x4 Desert Adventure to the Great Monastery (UNESCO), RVTVTIV Sand Sea, and Valley of the Whales Farewell Dinner HZ^HU • Nile River cruise Day 21: Fly to Cairo • The Valley of the Kings - King Tut’s SHRL Day 22: Depart Cairo UHZZLY Tomb HI\ZPTILS • Abu Simbel, Luxor and Karnak Departure Dates Temples & Prices • The remote Oasis of Siwa Comfort Level • Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples Feb 13 - Mar 06, 2021 - $7495 USD Some dusty, rough drives in the desert. • St Catherines Monastery (UNESCO) Oct 16 - Nov 06, 2021 - $7495 USD Accommodations Nov 13 - Dec 04, 2021 - $7495 USD Daily Itinerary Comfortable hotels/lodges with private Feb 05 - Feb 26, 2022 - $7495 USD Day 1: Arrive in Cairo bathroom facilities. Nile cruise is on a 5-star Oct 15 - Nov 05, 2022 - $7495 USD Day 2: Cairo Sightseeing standard cruise boat. Day 3: The Great Pyramids of Giza and the Step Pyramid Day 4: Old Cairo Sites, to Alexandria Day 5: Alexandria Sites Day 6: To Siwa Oasis Day 7: Mountain of the Dead, Cleopatra’s Bath, Old Siwa (Shali) Day 8: Siwa Museum, 4x4s to the Great Sand Sea Day 9: Return to Cairo Day 10: Fayoum Oasis or the Valley of the Whales Day 11: Memphis and Dahshur Day 12: Fly to Aswan, Unfinished Obelisk, Philae Temple and Felucca Excursion Day 13: Nubian Village, Coptic Monastery by Camel

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 31 IRAN

Yazd

Iran - an ancient land filled with bustling Despite Iran’s wealth of antiquities, perhaps bazaars, historic sights, superb architecture, Iran’s greatest attraction is the warmth and parched deserts and beautiful, snow-capped generosity of its people. Making you feel mountains. genuinely welcome in their country comes naturally to the Iranians. With no less than 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, few countries have a history that We visit rural villages with a more simplistic can compete with Iran, from the ancient gems life, to give you an off-the-beaten path, of Persepolis, and Yazd - declared the second authentic Iranian experience filled with most historic city in the world by UNESCO countless memories. Discovering the culture - to wonderful museums, glorious mosques and traditions of the Iranian people will easily and mausoleums, and impressive ruins with be a trip highlight. exquisite stone carvings.

32 [\YRL` [\YRTLUPZ[HU

JHZWPHUZLH Bam

Activity Level: 2/3 Daily Itinerary OHTHKHU [LOYHU Arrive in Day 1: RHZOHU Fact File Day 2: Tehran City Sights HI`HULO • 22 land days Day 3: Ali Sadra Cave, to KLaM\S • Maximum 16 travelers Hamadan PZMHOHU PYHU • Start and finish in Tehran Day 4: Hamadan, Ancient aPN\YYH[ `HaK • All meals included Ecbatana, Tombs of Esther & HO]Ha RLYTHU Highlights Mordecai Day 5: To Dezful via the RHaLYVVU WLYZLWVSPZ • Explore 13 UNESCO World Heritage Citadel of Khoramabad ZOHW\Y ZOPYHa IHT Sites Day 6: Tomb of Daniel, • Visit the National Jewels Museum Chogha Zanbil (UNESCO) MPYV\aHIHK • Visit the ancient city of Persepolis - Largest Pyramid in • Stay in Yazd - declared by UNESCO Mesopotamia as the second most historic city in Day 7: To Shiraz via Temple of Anahita in Comfort Level the world Bishapour (City) • Stroll over the famous bridges of Day 8: Firouzabad Some long drives. Day 9: Sites of Shiraz Accommodations • See the largest ziggurat (pyramid) in Day 10: Persepolis - Ancient City of the Mesopotamia at Chogha Zanbil Persians, Rock Tombs of Naqsh-E Rostam Comfortable hotels with private bathroom facilities. • Encounter the warmth and friendli- Day 11: To Kerman, Sarvistan Palace, Neyriz ness of the Iranian people Mosque Day 12: Arg-e-Bam, School Visit, Rayan Persepolis Day 13: To Yazd, Towers of Silence Day 14: Yazd, Old City Walking Tour Day 15: Desert and Camels Day 16: To Isfahan; Meybod and Nain Day 17: Stunning Bridges of Isfahan, Vank Cathedral, Imam Square Day 18: Jameh Mosque, Shaking Minarets & Vank Cathedral Day 19: Traditional Village of (UNESCO) Day 20: To , 7,000 yr Old Pyramid Day 21: Pilgrimage Site of Qom, Farewell Dinner Day 22: Depart Tehran Departure Dates & Prices May 08 - May 29, 2021 - $6995 USD Oct 16 - Nov 06, 2021 - $6995 USD May 02 - May 23, 2022 - $6995 USD Oct 10 - Oct 31, 2022 - $6995 USD

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 33 Oman

Oman - a stunning contrast of beaches, mountains Nakhr in the Jebel Shams. Hike in the - the and deserts, is one of the hidden treasures of the exotic “Green Mountains”- and visit a palm tree oasis and the town Middle East. Add over a thousand ancient forts, castles and of , once known for its black magic and “jins”, and now a watchtowers, lively souqs, the Bedouin culture, and you have pottery making center. an unforgettable traditional Arabian experience. Mix in the extravagance and architecture of Dubai and and We travel into the Great Wahiba Sands, where the amber- you have a unique Arabian experience filled with surprise and hued dunes meet the Arabian Sea, and an overnight in a contrast. traditional Bedouin camp awaits us. Travel along the coast to Ras Al Jinz, where we have the unique opportunity to see the We begin our journey in the , in endangered green turtles coming ashore at night to nest. the city of Dubai. We explore the city’s architectural marvels and also take in the sites of nearby Abu Dhabi, including the Flying to Salalah, we explore the southernmost province stunning Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Travel by traditional dhow in of Oman, known for its frankincense, the tomb of the the stunning fjords of Musandam. Explore Oman’s thriving Prophet Job, the natural titanic blow holes at Mughsail, and capital of . Visit the Grand Mosque, the largest in traditional Omani mud houses. We explore the “Lost City of Oman and its bustling Muttrah souq. We cross the “Grand Ubar” spending a night in the dunes of the Empty Quarter, as Canyon of Arabia” and hike to the remote village of Wadi described by adventurer Wilfred Thesiger, before ending our journey in Salalah, the “garden city” of the south.

34 Includes Overnight in Empty Quarter

Activity Level: 2/3 Day 5: Fjords of Musandam - Dhow Cruise Fact File Day 6: Fly to Muscat, ROHZHI -QVYKZVM 09(5 • 20 land days Muttrah Souq 4\ZHUKHT • Start in Dubai, U.A.E. and finish in Day 7: Muscat Sites 8(;(9 .<3-6- Salalah, Oman Day 8: House of Amouage, K\IHP 64(5 • All meals included to via Nakhal Fort • Includes 2 internal flights and Stunning Wadi Bani HI\KOHIP 4<:*(; >(+0)(50 Auf QHIHS Highlights <50;,+(9() (>- HROKHYT[ Day 9: Nizwa Cattle ,409(;,: • Explore the sites of Dubai, Abu UPa^H ^HKPZOHI Market, Jebel Shams :<9 Dhabi & Muscat Day 10: Al Hamra, Bahla • Sail in the fjords of Musandam by Fort and Jabrin Castle 9(:(3 dhow 105A • Enjoy a desert adventure - Bedouin Day 11: Birkat Al Mauz, ^HOPIH Jebel Akhdar ZHUKZ (9()0(5 tents, camels and dunes :,( • Hike in the Hajar Mountains Day 12: Great Wahiba • Visit the Grand Canyon of Arabia Sands & Bedouin Tents • Watch sea turtles laying eggs on Day 13: Desert Experience, 64(5 the beach Turtle Watching • Walk inside of wadis (dry river Day 14: Sur, Dhow Building ,TW[` beds) Yards, Wadi Tiwii 8\HY[LY • Explore the southern province of Days 15: Wadi Shab, Muscat +LZLY[ 05+0(56*,(5 Salalah/Dhofar By Night :(3(3(/ • See famous frankincense trees Day 16: Fly to Salalah, Tomb 409)(; • Visit the tallest building in the of the Prophet Job, Mughsail@,4,5 4<./:(03 world, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai & Frankincense Daily Itinerary Day 17: Taqah Castle, Day 1: Arrive in Dubai Sumharam & Mirbat Departure Dates & Prices Day 2: Dubai Sites Day 18: The Lost City of Ubar, Empty Nov 11 - Nov 30, 2021 - $9295 USD Quarter Camping Day 3: Abu Dhabi Sites Nov 03 - Nov 22, 2022 - $9295 USD Day 19: Return to Salalah Day 4: Dubai, to Khasab, Fortress Day 20: Depart Salalah Comfort Level Travel is partially by microbus, 4 wheel drive landcruisers & traditional dhows. Roads can be rough and some off-roading may be required. Accommodations Comfortable hotels/lodges. 1 night in Bedouin tents with twin beds and private bathrooms; 1 night in simple tented camps in Empty Quarter with shared bathrooms.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 35 Jordan

Jerash Departure Dates & Prices extension takes in some of the best that Jordan is run as an extension. Jordan has to offer. Please Note: Extensions may not have an Extensions may not be exclusive to dead ElderTreks tour leader. Not all members sea mt. nebo ElderTreks participants. In few cases, from the main trip will be participating. these extensions may not adhere to jordan from $2195 USD ElderTreks’ maximum size restrictions of Based on double-occupancy. Single our tours. Supplement: $320 USD A non-refundable deposit of $100 USD is petra required at time of booking. (Price for only 1 person with no one else wadi rum taking the extension: $3255.) Comfort Level Activity Level: 1/5 Walks up to one hour with options that are Fact File much longer. • 7 land days Please note: a visa is required to enter Jordan. You can obtain it upon arrival. • Start and finish in Amman • Includes 5 breakfasts and 5 dinners Accommodations • Includes all entrance fees Comfortable hotel with private bathroom Highlights facilities. • Visit the Roman ruins of Jerash - a well preserved site of Roman architecture One of the ‘new’ Ancient Wonders of the • Float in the Dead Sea Ancient World, Petra is an awe-inspiring • Explore Petra - ‘new’ Ancient Wonder of sight. Carved into the sheer rock face by the World the Nabataeans over 2000 years ago, the Rose City of Petra was an important trade • Enjoy of beauty of Wadi Rum link between southern Arabia and the Far Daily Itinerary East. As Jordan’s biggest attraction, Petra Day 1: Arrive in Amman is a must see for any visitors to this area. Day 2: Roman Ruins of Jerash, to We also visit the ruins at Jerash, a Roman Wadi Rum city built on a site dating back to the Day 3: Wadi Rum, to Petra Neolithic Age and experience the massive Day 4: The Rose City of Petra pillars of sandstone rock rising from the Day 5: Petra rose-red desert floor at Wadi Rum (wadi Day 6: The Dead Sea, Madaba, Mt. means desert). On the return to the capital Nebo city of Amman, visit the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea, with an opportu- Day 7: Depart Amman nity to float in its dense salt water. This

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The Caucasus

Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia

Khor Virap Monastery and Mt. Ararat

Situated between Russia in the north and Iran and Highway to the Caucasus Mountains. Everywhere we turn Turkey in the southwest, lies the region best known as we see evidence of Georgian pride and religion in their the Caucasus. Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia were all majestic churches. former Soviet Republics, each with their own rich and unique history, language and culture. Crossing into Armenia we stop at Lake Sevan, one of the highest fresh water lakes in the world. We will use We begin our journey in , Azerbaijan, one of the the capital, as our base to explore the Armenian first oil cities of the world. Natural gas vents led rise to countryside as we visit cave monasteries, churches and the religion of Zoroastrianism and their fire temples, pilgrimage sites, with holy Mt. Ararat our constant which still burn bright today. We will explore the nearby companion. We also visit the 7,500 year old astrological Ashberon Peninsula and marvel at 6000-year old site of Karahunj (3,500 yrs older than Stonehenge), and petroglyphs. the ancient cave dwellings of Khndzoresk. Continuing into the mountains we enter Georgia and The Caucasus is famous for its hospitality, sumptuous get our first taste of their renowned wines in the Kakheti foods, fine wines and stunning mountain scenery. Join us region. Later continue to the beautiful capital of . on this fascinating journey into a lesser-known region of Heading north we travel the famed Georgian Military the world.

38 Karahunj - 7,500 year old astrological site

Activity Level: 2/3 Fact File georgia pass georgia gudauri • 20 days telavi gori • Maximum 16 travelers akhaltsikhe • Start in Baku, Azerbaijan and finish tbilisi in Yerevan, Armenia vardzia • All meals included haghpat armenia sheki shemakha Highlights sevan baku • Explore the medieval town of Baku yerevan • Visit Zoroastrian Fire Temples and azerbaijan 6000-year old Stone and Iron Age petroglyphs khndzoresk karahunj • Visit the wine region of Georgia tatev • Travel along the famed Georgian Military Highway to the Caucasus Mountains • Explore the sites of Tbilisi & Yerevan Daily Itinerary Departure Dates & Prices & enjoy delicious cuisine and wine! Day 1: Arrive in Baku May 11 - May 30, 2021 - $6995 USD Day 2: Baku - Old Town, Shirvan Shah’s • Explore the cave monastery of May 18 - Jun 06, 2021 - $6995 USD Palace Vardzia Sep 07 - Sep 26, 2021 - $6995 USD Khor Virap Monastery Day 3: Absheron Peninsula & Gobustan May 10 - May 29, 2022 - $6995 USD and Mt. Ararat • See Lake Sevan in Armenia Day 4: Baku to Shemakha, Lahij and Sheki Sep 13 - Oct 02, 2022 - $6995 USD • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Day 5: Sheki Sites of and Echmiadzin Day 6: Sheki to Telavi, Georgia Comfort Level • Visit Khor Virap monastery with Day 7: Telavi to Sighnaghi Fortified Some rough roads, long drives. stunning views of Mt Ararat Town, to Tbilisii Day 8: Tbilisi Accommodations Day 9: Tbilisi to Gudauri Comfortable accommodations with private Day 10: Georgia Pass - Gudauri bathrooms. Day 11: To Akhaltsikhe via Gori Day 12: Day Trip to Vardzia Day 13: Akhaltsikhe to Tbilisi Day 14: To Haghpat, Lake Sevan, Armenia Day 15: To Sevan Monastery, Selim Pass, Karahunj, Tatev, Goris Day 16: To Khndzoresk, Noravank, Areni, Khor Virap, Yerevan Day 17: To Geghard, Garni, Yerevan Day 18: Yerevan Day 19: Trip to Echmiadzin Day 20: Depart Yerevan Garni - Roman Temple of the Sun

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 39 Now Includes Whale Watching

Encounter the magic of Sri Lanka - the island leopards on game safaris and for blue, fin and orca nation formerly known as Ceylon that is once whales off of the islands southern coast. Listen again open to visitors. Coastlines give way to a cool to the delightful sounds of the exotic birds along and rugged mountainous interior. Magnificent our nature walks. Sri Lanka’s natural heritage is archaeological sites, ancient kingdoms and forests sure to impress. Our adventure also maximizes teeming with wildlife - Sri Lanka promises an interaction with local people. Visit tea plantations, adventure packed with diversity, wildlife and craft villages, spice markets and local schools. The culture. people of Sri Lanka are welcoming, vibrant and eager to show you their way of life. ElderTreks’ adventure to Sri Lanka has been designed to highlight the natural and cultural Come a little closer - the air is fragrant with the wonders of this exotic island nation. Explore the scent of jasmine and temple flowers. Mysterious national parks, archaeological sites, cascading and exotic Sri Lanka awaits you! waterfalls and lush tropical jungles. Search for

40 Activity Level: 3 Day 2: Boat Ride Through the Dutch Canal, City Tour of Negombo Fact File Day 3: To Habarana • 19 days Day 4: Medieval Capital of • Maximum 16 travelers Polonnaruwa, Minneriya National • Start and finish in Colombo, Sri Park - Jeep Safarii Lanka Day 5: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, to Highlights Anuradhapura Day 6: Ancient Capital of • In 3 national parks (including Yala), Anuradhapura, Wilpattu National search for leopards, elephants, sloth Park - Jeep Safari bears, crocodiles, monkeys and a Dambulla Cave Temple myriad of birds Day 7: (UNESCO), to Elkaduwa Day 16: Train to Galle, Galle Fort (UNESCO) • Explore ancient capitals of Simpson Trail Hike Day 17: To Colombo Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Day 8: Sacred and Cultural Center of Day 18: Colombo Sites • Explore Dambulla Cave Temple and Day 9: Kandy (UNESCO) Day 19: Depart Colombo Buddhist pilgrimage sites The Temple of the Tooth • Hike Horton Plains and Sigiriya Day 10: Relic, to Nuwara Eliya Hill Station Departure Dates & Prices citadel Oct 25 - Nov 12, 2021 - $5495 USD Day 11: Horton Plains National Park • Enjoy a whale watching excursion Oct 24 - Nov 11, 2022 - $5495 USD searching for blue whales Day 12: Mountain Train to Ella • Explore the cultural capital of Kandy Day 13: Learn About Buddhism, Yala Comfort Level (UNESCO) National Park - Leopard Safari Some long drives. Day 14: Yala Morning Safari, Legend Accommodations Daily Itinerary of Kirinda, Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast Comfortable hotels with private bathrooms. Day 1: Arrive in Colombo, Transfer to Day 15: Whale Watching, Stilt Enjoy 1 night in a comfortable camp while on Negombo Fishermen safari with ensuite bathroom.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 41 Few countries can match the splendor of India, In Khajuraho, we visit the exquisitely carved an ancient culture imbued with exotic traditions. temple complex, then journey to Orchha for a A beautiful land of world-class sites, both natural local home experience. We board the train to Agra, and man-made, awaits you. From the plains to the home of the Taj Mahal - one of the most sublime rugged Himalayas, India is one of the world’s great structures ever built. We visit the Bharatpur Bird travel destinations. Our program highlights the Sanctuary, and journey to Ranthambore National famous sites of the north as well as lesser-known, Park, one of India’s most important reserves. but equally fascinating sites such as Ranthambore The highlight for many participants of November National Park. departures is the Pushkar Camel Festival, one of In New Delhi, we tour India’s regal capital, then India’s greatest events. Watch as men gather to travel to Varanasi to witness the rituals of bathing, trade, ride and race camels within a carnival-like prayer and funerals on the holy Ganges River as they setting. It is truly a spectacle not to be missed! have been performed for thousands of years. Throw in the color of Jaipur and Udaipur in Rajasthan for a truly wonderful adventure.

42 Includes Pushkar Camel Festival

Activity Level: 2 Day 13: Jaipur - Amber Palace new delhi Fort, Astronomical Observatory Fact File & City Palace • 21 land days Day 14: To Pushkar jaipurbharatpur • Maximum 16 travelers Day 15: Pushkar Camel Festival pushkar agra • Start and finish in New Delhi Day 16: To Jodhpur, • All meals included jodhpur • Includes 3 internal flights Mehrangarh Fort ranthambore varanasi n.p. Day 17: Villages of Bisnois, udaipur khajuraho Highlights Ranakpur Jain Temple, to • Explore Rajasthan’s highlights Kumbhalgarh india • Search for tigers in Ranthambore Day 18: Udaipur - Khumbalgarh National Park Fort and Culture Show Accommodations • Explore Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Day 19: Udaipur - City Palace, Sunset Comfortable hotels with private • Visit the Taj Mahal, Khajuraho and Cruise bathrooms. Fatehpur Sikri Day 20: New Delhi • Experience the sunrise on the Holy Day 21: Depart New Delhi Pushkar Camel Festival Ganges River in Varanasi Every year, we visit the Pushkar Camel Festival to see the oasis town of Pushkar • Experience Pushkar and a camel Departure Dates & Prices blossom into a world-class spectacle of safari Oct 30 - Nov 19, 2021 - $6995 USD buyers, sellers and over 50,000 camels. • Visit 8 UNESCO World Heritage Oct 20 - Nov 09, 2022 - $6995 USD Held for five days and culminating on Sites the auspicious Purnima (full moon of the Comfort Level Hindu month of Kartik), the Pushkar Daily Itinerary Some rough/dusty roads and long drives. Camel Fair is one of India’s greatest Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi festivals. Day 2: City Tour of New & Old Delhi Day 3: To Varanasi, Evening Ceremony on the Ganges Day 4: Varanasi, Sunrise on the Holy Ganges River,Visit Sarnath Day 5: Khajuraho Day 6: Orchha, Local Home Experience Day 7: Amermahal Palace, Train to Agra Day 8: Agra - Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Itmad-Ud-Daulah Tomb Day 9: Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Day 10: Ranthambore National Park Day 11: Ranthambore National Park, Safaris Day 12: To Jaipur

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 43 Lions & Tigers of india

This may be the grandest wildlife adventure Our itinerary includes visits to three national anywhere for those who are lovers of the BIG parks in search of a myriad of wildlife including CATS - lions, tigers, and leopards! the Royal Bengal Tiger. Seeing a tiger in the wild must certainly rank as a true wildlife highlight India is not typically known for having lions, for even the most seasoned traveler. We also as they are normally associated with an African search for a third big cat, near the area of Bera safari. Lions at one time roamed from southern - the leopard. We challenge anyone to find a Africa all the way to India. That band no longer wildlife safari where you can find lions, tigers, and exists and today lions typically roam only south leopards! of the Sahara in south and east Africa. There is however a small pocket in northwestern India Our adventure also includes New and Old Delhi, where lions still roam in the wild. This remote and Mumbai, Udaipur, Jawai Dam, and the erotic seldom-visited region features Gir National Park temples of Khajuraho where we will search for the rare Asiatic Lion.

44 Activity Level: 1 Day 4: Udaipur new delhi Fact File Day 5: Jawai Dam, Rabari Village Life • 20 land days Day 6: Leopard • Maximum 16 travelers Wildlife Safari • Start and finish in Delhi Day 7: To Ahmedabad, india • All meals included Rooftop Dinner udaipur • Includes 4 internal flights Day 8: To Sasan khajuraho bera Highlights Gir National Park, bandhavgarh Sabarmati ‘Gandhi’ ahmedabad n.p. • Search for tigers in Bandavgarh, Ashram kanha Kanha, and Tadoba National Parks gir n.p Day 9: Lion Safaris nagpur • Search for lions in Gir National Park diu tadoba Day 10: Fly to mumbai • Search for leopards near Bera Mumbai, Indian Gate • Explore the sites of New and Old Day 11: Mumbai Sites, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Day 16: To Bandhavgarh National Park Bandhavgarh - Tiger Safaris • Visit the famous Ramtek Temples Day 12: Fly to Nagpur, to Tadoba Day 17: and the erotic temples of Khajuraho National Park Day 18: Tiger Safari, to Khajuraho Daily Itinerary Day 13: Tadoba - Jeep Safaris in Search of Day 19: Erotic Temples of Khajuraho, to New Delhi Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi Royal Bengal Tigers Day 20: Depart New Delhi Day 2: City Tour of New & Old Delhi Day 14: Morning Tiger Safari, To Pench Day 3: Fly to Udaipur Day 15: To Kanha Tiger Reserve Departure Dates & Prices Feb 04 - Feb 23, 2021 - $6995 USD Nov 11 - Nov 30, 2021 - $6995 USD Feb 02 - Feb 21, 2022 - $6995 USD

Comfort Level Some rough/dusty roads and long drives. Accommodations We always stay in comfortable accommo- dations — hotels all have private bath or shower. Accommodations have been chosen on the basis of location, atmosphere, and local charm.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 45 Mountains & monasteries of northern india

Experience a more remote, serene and spiritual India! See of Jispa and Serchu, before arriving into Leh, the most important snowcapped Himalayan peaks as you traverse the world’s highest town in the Ladakh region. Nestled in a valley of the Indus River, pass. Visit the holy Sikh Golden Temple. Savor the local culture of and surrounded by snow-covered fringes of the Himalayas, a home stay in a beautiful Himalayan valley and feel enlightened Leh has a distinct character that transports us back in time. A as you encounter Tibetan Buddhist monks, culture, monasteries major trading point where caravans came in from the distant and chants that echo through the mountains and valleys. lands of Yarkand, Kashgar, Tibet, Kashmir and northern India, We begin in Delhi, the capital of India, before taking a the market once bustled with activity. Today, Leh is a center of fast train to Amritsar where we visit the Golden Temple. The Tibeto-Buddhist culture and has only been open to travelers since Golden Temple glitters with gold and marble and is one of the 1974. holiest Sikh shrines. Afterwards we drive up into the foothills We travel over the spectacular Khardung La Pass at 18,274 of the Himalayas, stopping at the 6th century town of Chamba. ft (5,570m) as we drive to Alchi to see the beautifully preserved Experience a 3-night homestay in the Panj-La Valley, our base of 900-year-old paintings. We have plenty of time to explore the exploration and tranquility. colorful temples and gompas of the area, which reflect the culture Set against the backdrop of mountains, we visit Dharamsala. of Tibet and are home to many ancient manuscripts, images of Perched on the high slopes of the upper reaches of Kangra Valley, Buddha, icons, thangkas and stupas. We fly back to Delhi for it is synonymous with the Tibetan government in exile and the a last day of sightseeing or shopping in the old and new cities home of Tibetan leader, His Holiness, the Dalai Lama. We drive before concluding this truly great adventure. over a series of dramatic mountain passes, stopping in the towns

46 Features the colorful Hemis Festival

Activity Level: 2 Daily Itinerary indus river Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi LEH Fact File Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing, Train to ALCHI • 22 land days Amritsar sarchu • Maximum 16 travelers chamba Day 3: Amritsar khajjiar • Start and finish in Delhi Day 4: Dalhousie dalhousie jispa • All meals included Day 5: Chiminu Village - Himalayan naggar • Includes 1 internal flight Homestay DHARAMSALA/ Day 6: Himalayan Homestay - Trekking McLeod Ganj Highlights Options • Sightseeing of Delhi Day 7: Himalayan Homestay - Cooking amritsar INDIA • Enjoy Ladakh and the the Himalayas Class • Visit Shey, Thikse and Hemis Day 8: To Dharamsala Monasteries Day 9: Dalai Lama’s Monastery, • See the 900-year-old murals of Alchi Dharamsala • Travel over the world’s highest pass Day 10: To Naggar, Naggar Castle DELHI • Experience a local home-stay in the Day 11: Naggar foothills of the Himalayas Day 12: Over the Rohtang Pass to Day 15: Sites of Leh • Travel to Dharamsala, home of the Jispa Day 16: Hemis Festival in Leh Tibetan Government in exile Day 13: Sarchu Day 17: To Nubra Valley Over the Day 14: To Leh Khardung La Pass (Highest Motorable Pass in the World) Day 18: Nubra Valley, Camel Ride Day 19: To Alchi Day 20: Return to Leh, Lamayuru Monastery, Basgo Castle Day 21: Delhi Day 22: Depart Delhi Departure Dates & Prices Jun 16 - Jul 07, 2022 - $5495 USD *Dates may change due to Hemis Festival Comfort Level 8 days over 9,000 feet. Some rough, dusty roads and long drives. Accommodations Comfortable hotels/guesthouses with private bathroom facilities. Homestay with basic accommodation in the Panj-La Valley (single accommodation may not be available). 1 night mobile tented camp stay in Sarchu with limited electricity and heating. Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 47 Land of the Peaceful Dragon - if ever there was traditional Himalayan community, considered by many an intriguing description of a country, this must be to be the last Shangri-La. it. A land of friendly, devout Buddhists, mountain We travel to Bhutan along winding mountain roads. monasteries and snow-capped 22,000-foot peaks, We visit Thimphu, the nation’s capital, and wander Bhutan and its neighbors, Darjeeling and Sikkim, are through markets, Buddhist temples and monasteries. the cultural explorer’s Philosopher’s Stone. We journey to Wangdi and visit the famous Punakha Our trip begins with a short flight to Bagdogra, Dzong via the Duchola Pass, with its stunning views of India. From here, we drive to the former hill station of the Himalayas. Darjeeling, famous for its tea plantations, temperate Add a visit to Paro, where one can hike to Taktsang climate and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Monastery, and encounter Bhutan’s gentle and Views of Kanchenjunga (the world’s third highest gracious people. It’s the perfect recipe for a magical mountain) and a visit to a tea plantation feature itinerary set against the mystical backdrop of the prominently during our days in Darjeeling. majestic Himalayas Our spring departure includes In Sikkim, a kingdom formerly closed to tourists, the colorful Paro festival with parades, dances and be awe-inspired by spectacular views of mountain ceremonies.. peaks. Experience a rare opportunity to mingle with a

48 Paro or Thimphu Festival Included

Activity Level: 2/3 Daily Itinerary gangtok 4 Day 1: Arrive in Calcutta, India 1 35 kalimpong 2 Fact File Day 2: Calcutta - Kalighat Kali Temple darjeeling • 21 land days Day 3: Fly to Bagdogra, India - Tea bagdogra bhutan • Maximum 16 travelers Factory phuentsholing • Start and finish in Calcutta, India 1 - thimphu Day 4: Darjeeling - Mt. Kanchenjunga india 2 - paro • All meals included 3 - wangdi Day 5: Darjeeling - Mountaineering calcutta 4 - bumthang • Includes 2 internal flights Institute 5 - trongsa Highlights Day 6: Gangtok, Sikkim Day 7: Gangtok Sites & Institute of Day 18: Wangdi - Paro • Enjoy the colorful dance and music Tibetology of Paro or Thimpu festivals Day 8: Rumtek Monastery, to Kalimpong † Spring/Paro Festival Departures • In India, visit Darjeeling Hill Day 9: Phuentsholing, Bhutan Day 11: Sites of Thimphu Stations & see Mount Day 10: Spectacular Drive to Thimphu Day 12: To Wangdi via Dochula Pass, Kanchenjunga, the world’s 3rd Punakha Dzong ∆ Fall/Thimphu Festival Departures highest mountain Day 13: To Bumthang Day 11: Thimphu Festival Day 14: Bumthang - Jakar Dzong, Jambey • In Bhutan, visit Thimpu, Paro, Day 12: Thimphu Bumtang, Trongsa Punakha and Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang Day 13: To Wangdi via Dochula Pass, Day 15: Trongsa their impressive Dzongs (adminis- Punakha Dzong trative and religious fortress) Day 16: Thimpu via Dochula Pass Day 14: Wangdi to Trongsa Day 17: To Paro • Visit the Kingdom of Sikkim & Day 15: To Bumthang Day 18: Paro Festival Rumtek Monastery Day 16: Bumthang - Jakar Dzong, • Climb to spectacular Taktsang Jambey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang Day 19: Hike to Taktsang Monastery Monastery Day 17: Bumthang - Wangdi Day 20: Fly to Calcutta, Farewell Dinner Day 21: Depart Calcutta Departure Dates & Prices ∆*Sep 06 - Sep 26, 2021 - $6995 USD ∆*Sep 07 - Sep 27, 2022 - $6995 USD * Dates may change due to Festivals. Comfort Level Elevation: 3 times we drive ver mountain passes just over 3000m/10000ft. Some rough/winding roads and long drives. Temperatures can be cold at night at high altitude so warm clothing is necessary. Accommodations Comfortable hotels with private bathrooms.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 49 Nepal

Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Annapurna, Lhotse Patan, and walk through the ancient streets of - these names have captured the imagination the restored capital of Bhaktapur. Visit Lumbini, of adventurers for over a century. Nepal may the birthplace of Buddha and enjoy a unique be known for having the planet’s highest peaks 2-day experience staying at a Tibetan Buddhist but it is also graced with beautiful terraced monastery in Dhulikhel, where you can eat and hillsides, raging rivers, and vibrant green lowland even meditate with the monks. jungles. These extraordinary natural features are On our mountain flight, fly next to the majestic complemented by the gracious welcome of the Himalayas, and enjoy a breathtaking view of people of this Himalayan kingdom. at over 29,000 feet. In Royal Our adventure highlights the cultural and Chitwan National Park, go on safari by day and natural features of Nepal. Marvel at Durbar Square relax by night in the comfort of our charming with its 1000-year old wooden buildings and take jungle lodge. In Pokhara, view the famed Fishtail in the burning ghats at Pashupatinath. Explore Peak (Machapuchare). Kathmandu’s smaller, more intimate sister city,

50 Activity Level: 2 ANNAPURNA tibet Fact File MT. EVEREST • 19 land days POKHARA/ BANDIPUR • Maximum 16 travelers dhampus NUWAKOT • Start and finish in Kathmandu • All meals included tansen KATHMANDU • Includes 2 internal flights chitwan bhaktapur dhulikhel Highlights n.p. • Visit the ancient sites of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur LUMBINI • Enjoy your safaris in Chitwan search- NEPAL ing for rhinos, tigers and other wildlife Day 13: Explore Bandipur india Departure Dates & Prices • Enjoy spectacular Himalayan views Day 14: Chitwan National Park, Jeep Oct 13 - Oct 31, 2021 - $5495 USD on your Everest flight Safari Oct 05 - Oct 23, 2022 - $4995 USD • Visit Lumbini, birthplace of Buddha Day 15: Jeep Safari, Boat Safari, Tharu Village • Explore the sites of Pokhara Day 16: Drive to Nuwakot, Working Farm Comfort Level • Enjoy a 2-night Tibetan Buddhist Visit Some rough roads, long drives. monastery experience Day 17: Local School Visit, Nuwakot • Enjoy breathtaking views of Fishtail Day 18: To Kathmandu, Swayambunath Accommodations Peak & the Annapurna Range ‘Monkey’ Stupa Comfortable hotels/guesthouses with Daily Itinerary Day 19: Depart Kathmandu private washrooms. Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu Day 2: Explore Ancient Patan, Cooking Lesson Day 3: Everest Scenic Flight, Patan’s Durbar Square Day 4: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudanath Stupa, to Dhuikhel Days 5-6: Namobudha Tibetan Buddhist Monastery Experience Day 7: Ancient Sites of Bhaktapur Day 8: Fly to Lumbini, Birthplace of Buddha Day 9: Explore Lumbini, to Tansen Day 10: To Pokhara, World Peace Pagoda Day 11: Mountain Museum & Tibetan Camp Day 12: Himalayan Sunset, Rural Village, Fishtail Mountain Views Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 51 The Stans of Central Asia - for thousands of years, bazaar. Explore Istarafshan, one of the oldest cities in these lands were sought after and conquered by some Tajikistan, with 2,500 years of history. of the world’s greatest leaders from Alexander, Attila, Visit the historic cities of Tashkent, Samarkand, Genghis Khan, Tamerlane, Babur, Cyrus, and Darius Bukhara and Khiva in Uzbekistan, evoking images of of ancient Persia. Today it is the world’s greatest caravans traveling across deserts and over mountains adventure seekers who are drawn to these exotic lands linking the worlds of East and West. These open-air of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and museums are beautifully preserved Silk Road wonders Turkmenistan. Lands filled with harsh deserts, towering filled with mosques, tombs, monuments and bazaars. snow-capped peaks, ancient cities and fortresses with exotic cultures. Crossing the border into Turkmenistan we will camp in the Karakum Desert overlooking a giant gas crater, one In Kyrgyzstan explore Lake Issyk-Kul and hike in of the most unusual sights in the world. Explore Bronze stunning mountains. Explore , the capital city and Age Margush (2,500 - 1,500 B.C.) and , a collection visit the ancient stone gods, which still remain a mystery. of 5 ancient cities that moved over the centuries as In , visit one of the biggest bazaars in Central Asia the river changed its course. Our journey leads us to and Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain (UNESCO). , the splendid capital of Turkmenistan, built Enjoy the stunning scenery of Tajikistan. In Khujand, predominantly of white marble. we visit the Citadel, Mausoleum, Madrassah, mosque and

52 [\YRTLUIHZOP `HUNPRHSH JHU`VUZ

Activity Level: 2 Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva Day 18: Khiva Fact File • Explore the ancient cities of Margush, Day 19: To Konya Urgench & Darwaza Merv and Nissa Day 20: To Ashgabat • 27 land days • Marvel at the giant gas crater of Day 21: Ashgabat, Archaeological Site of • Maximum 16 travelers Darwaza in the middle of the Karakum Nissa • Start in Almaty, Kazakhstan and Desert Day 22: To Mary and Ancient Merv finish in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan • Enjoy one of Asia’s largest bazaars Day 23: Margush - Bronze Age of • All meals included • Visit remote regions with stunning Civilizations, to Ashgabat • Includes 5 internal flights mountains and valleys Day 24: Ashgabat Surroundings, to Highlights Daily Itinerary Turkmenbashi and Awaza • Experience Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Uzbek, Day 25: Canyons of Yangikala Day 1: Arrive in Almaty Tajik, Turkmen and Russian Day 26: To Ashgabat Day 2: Almaty cultures Day 27: Departure from Ashgabat, Day 3: To Chong Kemin Valley, • Walk through the Silk Road cities of Turkmenistan Kyrgyzstan Day 4: Chong Kemin Valley Departure Dates & Prices Day 5: Chong Kemin Valley to Lake Apr 28 - May 24, 2021 - $8895 USD Issyk-Kul May 05 - May 31, 2021 - $8895 USD Day 6: To Sep 08 - Oct 04, 2021 - $8895 USD Day 7: To Bishkek Sep 15 - Oct 11, 2021 - $8895 USD Day 8: Day Trip to Al Archa Park May 04 - May 30, 2022 - $8895 USD Day 9: To Osh, Sulaiman-Too Sacred Sep 14 - Oct 10, 2022 - $8895 USD Mountain Day 10: To Khujand, Tajikistan Comfort Level Day 11: To Istarafshan Some rough roads, long drives. Day 12: To Tashkent, Uzbekistan Accommodations Day 13: Tashkent, to Samarkand Comfortable accommodations with private Day 14: Samarkand bathrooms. 1 night camping in basic Day 15: To Bukhara accommodation (tents) with shared facilities Day 16: Bukhara at giant gas crater of Darwaza. Day 17: To Khiva Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 53 Japan

Central Japan is a region of tall mountain ranges and to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawago, before fast-flowing rivers. It wasn’t until recently that roads reached continuing on to Kanazawa, a vibrant city that retains its the more remote villages, and today many remain remarkably traditional charm in the form of gardens, samurai districts, well-preserved, and evocative of centuries past. Our journey and old teahouses. We continue on to Kyoto and Nara – takes us through Japanese history, from modern Tokyo, the cultural heartlands of Japan and World Heritage Sites. to end near Kyoto, Japan’s capital for 400 years and the We travel by bullet train once again to the modern city of repository of much of the country’s cultural heritage. From Hiroshima, to learn about the city and its both tragic and Tokyo we head first to Fuji Hakone National Park, gateway triumphant history in the modern age. We return to Osaka to to Mt Fuji. We visit Yudanaka Onsen hot spring where the visit the city before we enjoy the special opportunity to stay famous ‘snow monkeys’ come to enjoy the natural hot spring at a shukubo, or Buddhist pilgrim’s lodgings, and enjoy an baths, just like humans. In feudal times people travelling from up-close experience of life in a Buddhist temple and discover Kyoto to Tokyo would use the Nakasendo Way – the road the ancient capitals of Japan before a tour of modern Osaka. through the central mountains – one of a network of ancient highways. We will visit one of the best preserved sections in the Kiso valley, where the lovely villages of Tsumago and Magome have been immaculately restored. We then continue on to Takayama with its delightfully historic Sanmachisuji district, and lively morning markets. Our travels bring us

54 Activity Level: 2/3 Daily Itinerary yudanaka Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo, kanazawa onsen Fact File Welcome Dinner takayama • 20 land days Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing narai tokyo • Starts in Tokyo, finishes in Osaka kyoto tsumago Day 3: Exploring the Hakone himeji nara hakone • All meals included hiroshima osaka Area and Mt. Fuji mt. koya • Maximum 16 travellers Day 4: Yudanaka Hot Spring Highlights and Snow Monkeys of japan • Witness the snow monkeys of Jigokudani Jigokudani Day 5: Matsumoto Castle & Day 15: Sightseeing of Miyajima and Narai Post Town • Visit restored lovely villages of Onward to Hiroshima Day 6: Tsumago & Magome: Tsumago and Magome Day 16: Hiroshima to Nara Day 7: Travel to Takayama • Enjoy Kyoto and Nara – the cultural Day 17: Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park Day 8: Takayama’s Sanmachisuji and heartlands of Japan Day 18: Mount Koya Heritage Sites • Visit Kanazawa with its charming Day 19: Morning Prayers (Optional) and Day 9: Shirakawa-go gardens, samurai districts and old Travel to Osaka Day 10: Kanazawa: Sake Brewery, teahouses Day 20: Depart Osaka Samurai District, Higashichaya and • Learn about the tragedy & triumph Kazue Machi Districts Departure Dates & Prices of Hiroshima Day 11: Morning Visit to Kenrokuen Sep 25 - Oct 14, 2021 - $9995 USD • Experience Japan’s bullet trains Garden and Onward Travel to Kyoto Accommodations • Overnight in Buddhist pilgrim’s Sightseeing of Kyoto and Tea Day 12: Accommodations are a mix of hotels (13 lodgings & enjoy an up-close Ceremony nights), traditional Japanese style inns (5 experience of life in a Buddhist Day 13: Kyoto - Golden Pavillion, Ryoanji temple nights) with futons and possible shared and Teramachi/Nishiki Market areas bathrooms, and 1 night at a Pilgrim’s lodge Day 14: Travel to Himeji, Visit Himeji attached to a Buddhist temple with shared Castle facilities. Staying at traditional style Japanese accommodations give us an authentic travel experience. Note: due to the unique accommo- dations, single travellers (including those pay- ing the single supplement) may need to share with same-sex singles for up to 6 nights). Japan has an excellent public transportation system which we will mainly be traveling on. This will involve lots of walking to and around large train stations, often carrying a day pack containing overnight clothes on luggage for- warding days (approx 6 times). This is consid- ered a walking tour.

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The ancient Silk Road was a route that connected explore the seldom-visited western portion of the Imperial Rome with China. For centuries it was the Great Wall in Jiayuguan to witness the extent of main exchange between East and West, a conduit for Chinese efforts to protect their empire. We journey religion and philosophy as well as goods and ideas. It to the famed Rainbow Mountain, an extraordinary was a place of great ancient cities as well as religious phenomenon unique in its color and shape. and spiritual centers of faith. Extending 4,000 miles The great Taklamakan Desert may have instilled fear (6,437 kilometers), the heart of the great Silk Road was in the hearts of intrepid travelers of the past but we China. will enter this vast desert for a camel safari, stopping at Our adventure to a seldom-visited part of the a number of oasis towns. We conclude our adventure forbidden kingdom starts in the old imperial capital on the border of the great Pamir Mountain Range of Xian, the terminus of the Silk Road. Terra Cotta and visit the Uighur town of Kashgar and the famed Warriors are a testimony to once powerful ancient Sunday Market before ending our tour in Urumqi. armies. Evidence of the spread of Buddhism can be Join us as we explore the stunning landscapes, seen in the stunning carved grottos in Bingling (a ancient sites and fascinating cultures on our Chinese UNESCO World Heritage Site) as well as at Labrang Silk Road adventure. Monastery, home to the yellow-sect Tibetans. We

56 Yellow Hat sect Tibetans of Labrong Monastery

Activity Level: 3 Fact File \Y\TXP • 23 land days 7VWH`HU [\YWHU • Maximum 16 travelers R\JOL RVYSH • Start in Xian and finish in Urumqi HRZ\ • Includes 1 internal flight RHZONHY QPH`\N\HU • All meals included `HYRHUK K\UO\HUN aOHUN`L Highlights OV[HU RHYHR\S[HZOR\YNHU SHUaOV\ • Terra Cotta Warriors in Xian SHRL *OPUH • 5th century Buddhist temples at Bin- _PHOL gling (UNESCO) _PHU • Labrang Monastery and the Yellow Hat sect Tibetans • Jaiyuguan and the western end of the Great Wall of China to Kuche • The Magao Grottos (UNESCO) of Day 13: Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Dunhuang Tianshan Great Canyon • Oasis town of Day 14: Kuche to Aksu • Camel safari in the Taklamakan Desert Day 15: To Hotan • The famed Sunday Market in Kashgar Day 16: Desert Trekking with Bactrian • Travel along the Karakoram Highway Camels and visit the Khunjerab Pass Day 17: Sunrise Over the Dunes, to • Visit the unique and colorful Rainbow Hotan Mountain Day 18: Hotan Sites Day 19: Tashkurgan, Tajik Villages and Daily Itinerary Nomadic Herdsman, Karakul Lake Day 1: Arrive in Xian Day 20: Tashkurgan to Kashgar Day 2: Terra-Cotta Warriors of Xian Day 21: Kashgar’s Ancient Sunday Day 3: Xian Sites, Train to Lanzhou Market Day 4: To Bingling Grottos Day 22: Kashgar’s Old City (UNESCO), to Xiahe Day 23: Depart Urumqi Day 5: Labrang Monastery (Tibetan) Departure Dates & Prices Train to Zhangye, Danxia Day 6: Sep 06 - Sep 28, 2021 - $6495 USD Rainbow Mountain May 08 - May 30, 2022 - $6495 USD To Jiayuguan, Western Great Day 7: Sep 04 - Sep 26, 2022 - $6495 USD Wall, Wei-Jin Ancient Tombs Day 8: To Dunhuang, Ten-Thousand-

Buddha Gorge Comfort Level Some long drives. 2 nights over 10,000 ft. Day 9: Dunhuang, Mogao Grottos Day 10: Train to Turpan Accommodations Day 11: Ancient City of Idikut, We stay in comfortable accommodations, Bizeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, both hotels and guesthouses, with private Lunch With a Local Uighur Family bathrooms. The only exception is the one Day 12: Ancient City of Yargul, Train night camping in the Taklamakan Desert.

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China - 5,000 years of history. That alone is enough his journey to the afterworld. A stunning display of to draw most people to the Middle Kingdom. Our Classic craftsmanship, each soldier and horse are unique. Route to China travels through eastern China, showing See the famous Buddhist Caves at Dazu and embark you China’s major cultural and natural sites. on a cruise through the spectacular Three Gorges for We start in Beijing, one of the world’s great cities, a stunning display of massive rock faces forged by the where large squares and monuments grace grand mighty Yangtze River. boulevards. We explore Beijing’s hutongs (alleys), We explore the fascinating city of Shanghai before to experience daily life in this ancient city. Imagine flying to Guilin to discover the sublime landscape, walking through a grand imperial monument such as regarded by the Chinese as the most beautiful site in the Forbidden City - truly a city within a city. Enjoy China. Limestone peaks are in contrast to the serenity of excursions to the impressive Ming Tombs, Confucius surrounding rice paddies - simply spectacular! Temple and The Great Wall (UNESCO). We finish our journey through Classic China with In Xian, one of the ancient capitals of China, we a fast train to the cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong, to encounter the great wonder of the Terra Cotta Warriors, enjoy its splendid sites.. an Emperor’s funerary army built to protect him on

58 Combines with Yunnan (China). Forbidden City, Hutongs, Day 2: great wall Activity Level: 2 Summer Palace, Beijing Opera china BEIJING Day 3: The Great Wall of China, Fact File Ming Tombs • 17 land days Day 4: Beijing, Train to Xian XIAN • Maximum 16 travelers Day 5: Xian, Terra Cotta YANGTSE shanghai RIVER • Start in Beijing, finish in Hong Kong Warriors • All meals included Day 6: Xian, Fly to Chongqing CHONGQING WUHAN • Includes 3 internal flights and 2 train Day 7: To Dazu, Buddhist Caves, DAZU journeys Board Yangtze River Cruise Highlights Day 8: Yangtze River Cruise GUILIN Day 9: Yangtze River Cruise, HONG • Walk on The Great Wall Shennong Stream KONG • 6 UNESCO Sites Day 10: Yangtze River Cruise - • Explore the Forbidden City Yichang Three Gorges Dam Tour, • Cosmopolitan city of Shanghai Fly to Shanghai Departure Dates & Prices • See the Terra Cotta Warriors Day 11: Shanghai Sep 11 - Sep 27, 2021 - $5695 USD • Cruise the Yangtze Rivers Three Day 12: Shanghai Sep 10 - Sep 26, 2022 - $5695 USD Gorges and visit the dam Day 13: Guilin Comfort Level • View the art in the Buddhist Caves at Day 14: Guilin, Li River Cruise, Some long drives. Dazu Yangshuo • Travel by boat on the Li River, Guilin Day 15: Fast Train to Hong Kong Accommodations • View Hong Kong from Victoria Peak Day 16: Hong Kong - Victoria Peak Comfortable, well-located accommodations with private bathrooms Day 17: Depart Hong Kong Daily Itinerary throughout. Includes 3 nights on a Day 1: Arrive in Beijing Yangtze River cruise ship.

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Black Dragon Pool, Lijang

Yunnan’s diversity of natural wonders includes on beautiful Erhai Lake before traveling to the town of Himalayan peaks, fertile valleys, tropical rainforests, Lijiang and walking along footpaths over ancient canals tranquil lakes, nature reserves and thundering rivers. and alongside merchant shops. The snow-capped mountains and glaciers feed two of We make our way to higher altitude as we begin our the world’s great rivers, the Mekong and the Yangtze. journey to Shangri-La (formerly called Zhongdian) and Culturally, the area is a veritable cornucopia of 24 Deqen on the Tibetan Plateau. We encounter locals colorful and exotic ethnic groups including Yi, Lisu, Bai, in their traditional villages, plowing fields with yaks Naxi, and Li. in this truly rugged, spectacular and seldom-visited Starting in Kunming, we visit the Western Hills Shangri-La. We also travel to Tacheng Nature Reserve and a temple carved out of the mountainside. In the in search of the very rare Yunnan golden monkey. town of Dali, we explore ancient streets surrounded Finally, we board a plane to Chengdu in Sichuan by remnants of the city wall that once protected province, where we conclude our trip with a visit to the inhabitants from invaders. In the background, the UNESCO Panda Breeding Sanctuary. Cangshan Mountains rise to snowy heights. We cruise

60 Includes Tibetan plateau, Tacheng ‘Golden Monkey’ Reserve & UNESCO Panda Breeding Sancturary

Combines with Classic China. Day 2: Stone Forest and Kunming */,5.+< Activity Level: 2 Day 3: Western Hills and Kunming Day 4: Dali, Lake Erhai, Three +Ì8Ì5 Fact File Pagodas • 16 land days Day 5: Dali, Boat Cruise on Lake • Maximum 16 travelers Erhai :OHUNYPSH ;HJOLUN 3010(5. • Start in Kunming, finish in Chengdu Day 6: To Shaxi UW • All meals included Day 7: To Shangri-La :OH_P • Includes 1 internal flight `HUN[ZL Day 8: To Tacheng Nature Reserve ,9/(0 +(30 YP]LY Highlights Day 9: Search for Golden Monkeys, 3(2, • Visit ancient Dali and Lijiang and a to Deqen Via the Baimang Pass traditional Naxi village Day 10: Mingyomg Glacier, Feilai • See the Stone Forest Temple 2<5405. • View the Upper Yangtse and Mekong Day 11: Explore the Himalayan rivers Region, Return to Shangri-La Departure Dates & Prices • Explore Lijiang - a UNESCO World Day 12: To Lijiang, Tiger Leaping Gorge Heritage Site Sep 27 - Oct 12, 2021 - $4495 USD Day 13: Lijiang - Yufeng Temple, • Boat ride on Lake Erhai Sep 27 - Oct 12, 2022 - $4495 USD Traditional Naxi Village • Visit the UNESCO Panda Breeding Comfort Level Sanctuary Day 14: Lijiang - Black Dragon Pool, Fly • Search for the rare golden monkey to Chengdu 6 days over 9,000 feet. Some rough/ Day 15: UNESCO Panda Breeding dusty, windy roads and long drives. Daily Itinerary Sanctuary, Chengdu City Tour Accommodations Day 1: Arrive in Kunming, China Day 16: Depart Chengdu Comfortable hotels with private bathroom facilities.

Golden Monkey

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Grasslands extend to a horizon of cobalt-blue skies, In Yol Valley National Park, we experience a unique pastel-hued rocks color the Gobi Desert and fast- environment that includes 200 species of birds and flowing rivers cut deep canyons in arid steppes in this 600 species of vegetation. remote Asian nation land-locked between China and We stay on the beautiful shores of Lake Hovsgol. Russia. The people, descendants of Genghis Khan, are Surrounded by mountains and forests, it contains three an eclectic mix of rugged nomads, Buddhist monks, percent of the Earth’s fresh water. In central Mongolia farmers and merchants. For the truly adventurous, we visit Gorkhi-Terelj and Bogd National Parks. In Mongolia holds the promise of an exotic culture rarely Karakoram we discover the ruins of the ancient capital visited by travelers. of the Mongols, and in Ulaanbaatar we walk through Starting in Ulaanbaatar, the tour uses the capital former royal palaces and visit the national museum. as a hub to visit the Gobi Desert, Lake Hovsgol and The highlight for many is the famous Naadam central Mongolia. In the Gobi, we visit the Flaming Festival. Full of ceremony, pomp and festive Cliffs, a world-class dinosaur site with remains so Mongolians, this event features the “Three Sports plentiful that dinosaur eggshells can still be found on of Men” - archery, wrestling and horse racing. Our the surface. Mongolian odyssey concludes in Ulaanbaatar.

62 Includes The Nadaam Festival

Activity Level: 2 Day 12: Naadam Festival - Closing Ceremony Fact File Day 13: Fly to Gobi Desert - Yol Karakoram • 17 land days Valley National Park ULAANBAATA R • Maximum 16 travelers Day 14: Khongoryn Els - • Start & finish in Ulaanbaatar Singing Sand Dunes • All meals included Day 15: Flaming Cliffs - • Includes 4 internal flights Cemetery of Dinosaurs Highlights Day 16: Return to beijing Ulaanbaatar, Bogd Khan • Feel the competitive excitement of Palace the Naadam Festival Comfort Level Day 17: Depart • Enjoy beautiful Lake Hovsgol and the Some rough/dusty roads and long stunning Mongolian landscape Departure Dates & Prices drives. Flexibility is key due to changing internal airline schedules. • Explore Flaming Cliffs dinosaur site Jul 01 - Jul 17, 2021 - $6695 USD • Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery Jul 07 - Jul 23, 2021 - $6695 USD Accommodations • Enjoy meeting welcoming Jul 01 - Jul 17, 2022 - $6695 USD Comfortable hotel in Ulaanbaatar Mongolians Please note: Itinerary sequence and with private bathrooms. Seven nights • Experience life in 13th century’s dates are subject to change due to accommodation in twin/single room gers Mongolia festival times, train and internal flight (Mongolian circular tents) with private • View the world’s tallest equestrian schedules, but all activities in this bathroom facilities. One night in wooden statue itinerary will be included. houses with private bathroom facilities. Daily Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar Day 2: Hogno Han Day 3: To Karakoram - Ancient Capital of the Mongols Day 4: Przewalski Wild Horses, Return to Ulaanbaatar Day 5: Genghis Khan’s 13th Century Park Day 6: Terelj National Park, Ulaanbaatar Day 7: Fly to Muron, Lake Hovsgol Day 8: Lake Hovsgol - Hiking, Boat Ride Day 9: Lake Hovsgol - Horseback and Yak Cart Riding (Optional) Day 10: To Ulaanbaatar - Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts Day 11: Naadam Festival - Competition & Ceremony

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Myanmar is a vibrant tapestry of culture, history the breathtaking countryside and traditional riverside and geography. A delightful blend of diverse ethnic villages during our 2-day Irrawaddy River journey to groups, graceful Buddhist monasteries, and ancient Bagan. With over 2,600 ancient monuments in Bagan, pagodas welcome travelers to this exotic country. we visit the most impressive temples and pagodas, Bordering Thailand, Laos, India, and adorned with statues and mural paintings. We travel to China, Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) is at the Mount Popa to view the shrine atop an extinct volcano cultural crossroads of Southeast Asia. Our extensive and walk around the historical hill station of Kalaw. On 20-day itinerary has been designed to explore this Inle Lake, we travel by longtail boat to see one-legged country’s extraordinary cultural and geographic rowers, floating gardens, lakeside markets, monasteries treasures to the fullest. and the ancient ruins of In Thein Pagoda. In Kyaing Beginning in Yangon (Rangoon), we visit the Tong, on the Shan Plateau, we trek to the Hilltribe opulent Shwedagon Pagoda, beautifully ensconced in villages of the Akha, Arn, Lahu, Palaung, Khun Shan gold. Join pilgrims on their journey to Golden Rock and Wa people. Temple. Explore the monasteries and historic sites of This is your invitation to a sublime country Mandalay before traveling back in time as we take in inhabited by some of the friendliest people on Earth.

64 Now includes Golden Rock Temple

Activity Level: 2/3 Daily Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Yangon myanmar Fact File Day 2: To Golden Rock mandalay • 20 land days Return to Yangon, City Sites irrawaddy kyaing Day 3: river tong • Maximum 16 travelers Day 4: Fly to Mandalay - Golden heho • Start and finish in Yangon Palace Monastery bagan • All meals included Day 5: Mandalay - Former Royal mount kalaw • Includes 4 internal flights Capitals and Monasteries popa Day 6: Mandalay Sites Highlights Days 7-8: Begin 2-day Irrawaddy • Visit the famed Shwedagon Pagoda River Cruise and Golden Rock Temple Day 9: Bagan • Meet ethnic Hilltribe minorities Golden Rock Day 10: Ancient Sites & Temples of Temple • See the skillful leg rowers of Inle Bagan Lake Day 11: Mount Popa • Visit ancient Bagan and its 2600 Day 12: Fly to Kalaw, Hill Station monuments yangon Day 13: Sightseeing In and Around • 2-day journey down the Irrawaddy Kalaw River • Explore the monasteries and historic Day 14: Inle Lake Optional: Bagan Sunrise sites of Mandalay Day 15: One-Legged Rowers of Inle • Explore the world’s biggest book Lake Balloon Ride • Visit the extinct volcano of Mount Day 16: Fly to Kyaing Tong Price: from $330 USD Popa Day 17: Hilltribes of Kyaing Tong Day 18: Fly to Yangon Day 19: Yangon Sites - Shwedagon Pagoda Day 20: Depart Yangon Departure Dates & Prices Feb 08 - Feb 27, 2021 - $4995 USD Jan 05 -Jan 24, 2022 - $4995 USD Feb 09 - Feb 28, 2022 - $4995 USD Comfort Level Some rough roads and long drives. Accommodations Comfortable hotels with private bathrooms. 2 nights basic accommodation in Kyaing Tong. 2 nights on a boat on the Irrawaddy River with private bathrooms.

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The culture and traditions of Laos are the least traverse the remote mountains to Sam Nua. Explore the changed among Southeast Asian countries and make it fascinating caves of Vienxay, used as the headquarters of a mecca for those searching for a truly exotic adventure. the Pathet Lao Revolutionary Movement during a virtual Here, you will find ancient temples, exquisite scenery, an secret war. We visit the Plain of Jars (UNESCO) and eventful history and exotic cuisine, all within the warm ponder the great mystery of the thousands of 2,500-year- embrace of a welcoming people. old stone jars. We begin in Bangkok, Thailand, then fly north to We fly to the nation’s capital, Vientiane, to enjoy Chiang Rai and continue to the Golden Triangle before the eclectic mix of Lao, Thai, Vietnamese, French and entering Laos. A 2-day Mekong River journey takes us to American influences before flying south to Pakse where remote Hilltribe villages and mountainous jungles. We we embark on a 3-day/2-night Mekong River journey arrive in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site aboard a traditional and elegant Mekong teak barge. with some of the most beautiful and exotic temples in Traveling south along the Mekong, we visit the majestic Asia. Khmer temple site of Wat Phou, built 200 years before Our northern circuit continues to Pak Ou Cave Angkor Wat and the natural beauty of Khong Island. Our (Buddha Cave) enroute to Nong Khiew. Enjoy a day adventure concludes with a flight back to Bangkok. trip to a beautiful, ‘weaving’ Hilltribe village before we

66 Wat Phou

Activity Level: 2 Daily Itinerary ban xang khong Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand golden sam nuea Fact File triangle pac beng nong Day 2: Fly to Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle khiew • 21 land days Day 3: Enter Laos, Mekong Boat Journey chiang rai plain of • Maximum 16 travelers to Pac Beng luang jars prabang • Start & finish in Bangkok Day 4: Remote Mekong to Luang Prabang • All meals included Day 5: Luang Prabang • Includes 4 internal flights Day 6: Luang Prabang, Kuang Sy Waterfall, vientiane K’hmu Villages mekong river Highlights Day 7: Luang Prabang, Pha Tad Ke • Enjoy a 3-day/2-night Mekong Botanical Garden and Temple River journey aboard a traditional Day 8: Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw and elegant Mekong teak barge Day 9: Boat Journey Through Mountains • Explore the ancient Plain of Jars and Villages pakse (UNESCO) Day 10: Northern Heritage Route to Sam wat pho Neua bangkok • See the majestic temples and sites khong of Luang Prabang (UNESCO) Day 11: Viengxay Caves, Sam Neua Sites island Day 12: To Plain of Jars (Phonsavan) • Visit the cave city of Viengxay Day 13: Plain of Jars (UNESCO) Start 3-day Mekong River Cruise, • Encounters with Hilltribe villages Day 17: Day 14: UXO and Organic Silk Farm (MAG Pre-Angkorian Ruins of Wat Phou • Explore 10th century Khmer Ruins optional) Day 18: To Khong Island, Fishing Village, of Wat Phou Day 15: Vientiane French Railway & Waterfall Day 16: Fly to Pakse Day 19: Pakse, Farewell Dinner Day 20: Pakse, Fly to Bangkok Plain of Jars Day 21: Departure Departure Dates & Prices Jan 30 - Feb 19, 2022 - $5295 USD Comfort Level Some rough/dusty roads and long drives. Accommodations Comfortable hotels/lodges with private bathrooms.

Extension Angkor Wat - 5 land days: Explore one of the world’s greatest religious monuments. Built in the 12th century at the height of the Khmer Empire. Price: from $995 USD

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Rice paddies tended by farmers in conical hats, a After stopping at My Khê (China beach), we travel two-thousand mile coastline with sandy beaches and over the spectacular Hai Van Pass to Hue, the former mountains covered in the vibrant greens of lush tropical ancient capital modeled after the Forbidden City in vegetation. Welcome to Vietnam, one of Southeast Asia’s Beijing. While exploring Hue, we use cyclos (bicycle most beautiful countries. taxis) to visit the Citadel, Vietnam’s Forbidden City and We begin in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). Explore the the local Dong Bay market. Continuing north, we visit famous Cu Chi Tunnel complex and the Mekong Delta, the first national park in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong, before where we enjoy a riverboat trip on the Tein River. We visiting a unique traditional village, which is also an drive to Dalat, known as the “City of Flowers”. Visit a ecological reserve area. silkworm workshop and see Dalat’s “Crazy House”, the Enjoy the sites of Hanoi, amidst shaded streets, former palace of the emperor Bao Dai. French colonial architecture and the surrounding lakes Traveling north to Hoi An, we explore this restored of the downtown core. In Halong Bay, enjoy a 3-day/2- open-air museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site. night cruise aboard our comfortable barge, navigating In My Son, we learn about the Cham people, also a the turquoise waters amid spectacular cliff-faced islands UNESCO World Heritage Site. while enjoying incredible seafood feasts before returning to Hanoi for our farewell dinner.

68 Activity Level 2 Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh Sites hanoi Fact File Day 3: Mekong Delta cuc phuong n.p. hai • 21 land days Day 4: Floating Market, Return to Ho village • Maximum 16 travelers Chi Minh huong • Start in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Day 5: Scenic Drive to Dalat khe finish in Hanoi Day 6: Dalat Sites • All meals included Day 7: Fly to Da Nang, to Hoi An dong hoi • Includes 1 internal flight vinh moc Day 8: Hoi An (UNESCO) - By Foot and the dmz hue Highlights By Boat da nang hoi an • Visit the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels, My Son (UNESCO), Cham Day 9: my son China Beach and the Hanoi Hilton Towers • Discover My Son (UNESCO) and Day 10: To Hue via My Khê (China ancient Cham temples Beach), Perfume River Tombs by Boat, • Explore the Mekong Delta by boat Thien Mu Pagoda by Cyclo • Visit the Phong Nha Cave (UNESCO) Day 11: Ancient Capital of Hue dalat • Explore the old capital of Hue Day 12: To DMZ, Hien Luong Bridge, (UNESCO) and stunning Hoi An Vinh Moc Underground Villiage (UNESCO) mekong ho chi minh city Day 13: Phong Nha Cave delta (saigon) • 3-day/2-night boat trip on Day 14: To Cuc Phuong via Ho Chi spectacular Halong Bay Minh Road Day 17: Traditional Vietnamese Village Daily Itinerary Day 15: Cuc Phuong National Park, to Day 18: To Halong Bay - 3d/2n Boat Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh Hanoi Journey (Saigon) Day 16: Hanoi Sites, Old Quarter by Day 19: The Turquoise Waters and Cyclo Limestone Islands of Halong Bay Day 20: Halong Bay, to Hanoi (Farewell Dinner) Cham ruins Day 21: Depart Hanoi Departure Dates & Prices Feb 18 - Mar 10, 2022 - $5495 USD

Comfort Level Some long drives and travel on traditional boats. Accommodations Comfortable hotel/lodges with private bathrooms. Features 2 nights on a boat on Halong Bay.

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The land of a thousand smiles, ancient temples, 5 tree-lined streets, past French colonial architecture and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exotic and welcoming old-quarter of Hanoi by cyclo and explore the thousands of cultures, Hilltribe villages, colorful markets and stunning limestone islands in the warm turquoise water of Halong scenery. ElderTreks’ Grand Southeast Asia Adventure Bay. offers the best of Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Fly to Luang Prabang (UNESCO) and discover some Myanmar. of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful temples. Embark on a Our journey begins in Bangkok. Marvel at the amazing 2-day Mekong River journey into the remote regions of Grand Palace complex and the Temple of Dawn before northern Laos. taking a long-tail boat ride on the back canals of the Chao We return to Thailand via the Golden Triangle and Phrya River. on to the northern city of Chiang Mai for Thai cooking Fly to Siem Reap, gateway to the fantastic ancient lessons and a visit to Doi Suthep, overlooking the city. temples of Angkor. Visit the most impressive ruins: Bayon Fly to Mandalay and visit the most revered religious Temple, Banteay Srei, the “Citadel of Women”, Terrace monuments in Myanmar, as well as hand-woven silk and of the Elephants, Angkor Thom and much more. Enjoy tapestry workshops. Bagan’s countryside is the perfect a performance of classical Cambodian dance. We fly to backdrop for its 2,600 ancient temples. Our adventure Phnom Penh to begin our river journey along the Mekong continues in Yangon, Myanmar with visits to the city’s into Vietnam. main attractions, including one of the most opulent In Vietnam, spend a relaxing day meandering through temples in the world, the Shwedagon Pagoda. the rivers and canals of the Mekong Delta. Visit the We hope you can join ElderTreks’ adventure which infamous Cu Chi Tunnels before seeing the highlights and visits Southeast Asia’s greatest treasures - truly a journey energy of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Walk the streets of of a lifetime. Hoi An - a “living museum” (UNESCO). Meander through

70 JOPUH Activity Level: 2 THUKHSH` ]PL[UHT Fact File IHNHU OHUVP OLOV • 32 land days 0USL SHVZ • Maximum 16 travelers 3HRL OHSVUNIH` • Start in Bangkok, Thailand and Finish in S\HUN Yangon, Myanmar T`HUTHY WYHIHUN JOPHUN • All meals included THP • Includes 8 flights O\L `HUNVU TLRVUN KHUHUN Highlights YP]LY OVPHU • 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites • Bangkok - Grand Palace, Temple of Dawn, [OHPSHUK Thailand IHUNRVR • Cooking classes in Vietnam and Thailand HUNRVY • Yangon - Shwedagon Temple, Myanmar ^H[ • Temples and Pagodas of Angkor Wat, Luang ZPLTYLHW Prabang, Mandalay & Bagan JHTIVKPH WOUVT • 2-day Mekong River journey, Laos WLUO • Spectacular Halong Bay, Vietnam ZHPNVU • Remote Hilltribe villages OVJOPTPUO • See the famous one-legged rowers on Inle JOH\KVJ Lake Day 16: Sites of Hanoi, Old Quarter Day 31: Yangon Sites Daily Itinerary Day 17: Fly to Luang Prabang Day 32: Depart Yangon Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand Day 18: Luang Prabang Walking Tour Day 2: Bangkok - Grand Palace, Reclining (UNESCO) Departure Dates & Prices Buddha, Canal Journey Day 19: Luang Prabang - Kuang Sy Jan 06 - Feb 06, 2021 - $9995 USD Day 3: Fly to Siem Reap, Ancient Temples of Waterfall, K’hmu Villages Jan 05 - Feb 05, 2022 - $9995 USD Angkor Day 20: Mekong River Journey, ‘Caves Day 4: Angkor Wat (UNESCO) of a Thousand Buddhas’ Comfort Level Day 5: Angkor - Banteay Srei, Fly to Phnom Penh Day 21: Mekong River Journey to Some rough/dusty roads and long drives. Day 6: Phnom Penh Thailand Day 22: Golden Triangle to Chiang Mai Flexibility is key due to changing internal Day 7: Boat Journey to Can Tho, Vietnam airline schedules. Day 8: Mekong Delta Boat Journey, Floating Day 23: Wat Doi Suthep & Thai Cooking Accommodations Market, Ho Chi Minh City Lessons Day 9: Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City, Fly Day 24: Fly to Mandalay Comfortable hotels with private bathrooms. to Da Nang Day 25: Ancient Cities of Mandalay - Day 10: Hoi An (UNESCO) Amarapura and Innwa Day 11: Hoi An - Life On the River Day 26: Irrawaddy River and Mingun Excursion Day 12: To Hue (UNESCO) via China Beach, Imperial Forbidden City Day 27: Bagan, Temple Sites Day 13: Perfume River Boat Trip, Royal Day 28: Ancient Temples of Bagan Tombs, Fly to Hanoi Day 29: Fly to Inle Lake, One-Legged Day 14: Hanoi to Halong Bay (UNESCO) Rowers Day 15: To Hanoi, Water Puppet Performance Day 30: Indein Pagoda, Fly to Yangon

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The jungles of Borneo have evolved over 100 we enjoy easy hikes at the base of Mt. Kinabalu, the million years. They are the oldest on Earth and highest mountain in Southeast Asia. Mt. Kinabalu provide a unique opportunity to experience an houses celebrated biological diversity, including the ancient ecosystem along with the tribal cultures that rafflesia, the world’s largest flower. We visit the inhabit them. A rugged land of caves, peaks, rivers tropical islands of Gaya and Manukan. Enjoy 3 days and forests, Borneo is an irresistible paradise for in the remote interior jungle of the Danum Valley. adventure travelers. Traveling via Sandakan, we take a boat to Selingan Beginning in the old colonial city of Kuching, Island to observe sea turtles as they come ashore we have a city tour and an interesting cultural visit. nightly to lay their eggs. We start our jungle experience by flying to world- At the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, we arrive in renowned Mulu National Park. Here we explore time for the orphan orangutans’ afternoon feeding. one of the world’s largest cave passages and oldest The tour winds down on the tranquil Kinabatangan rainforests, from the base of our comfortable lodge. River, where we go on a river safari in search of We fly to Sabah in the far north of Borneo, where proboscis monkeys, hornbills and wild elephants.

72 Deer Caves Activity Level: 3 NH`H THU\RHU Day 6: Mulu PZSHUKZ [\Y[SLPZ Fact File National Park - RV[H ZHIHO • 18 land days Moonmilk and RPUHIHS\ ZHUKHRHU • Maximum 16 travelers Clearwater Caves ZLWPSVR T[ RPUHIH[HUNHUY • Start in Kuching, finish in Kota Day 7: To Kota TPYP RPUHIHS\ Kinabalu Kinabalu • All meals included Day 8: Islands of • Includes 5 internal flights Gaya and Mamutik T\S\UW Day 9: Kinabalu Highlights National Park - ZHYH^HR Poring Hot Springs • Remote Danum Valley National Park R\JOPUN • Sepilok Orangutan sanctuary Day 10: Kinabalu SLTHUHRYP]LY National Park, • Mulu National Park and Caves Departure Dates & Prices • Kinabalu National Park / Hot Spring War Memorial • Rainforest Canopy Walk Day 11: Fly to Danum Valley Mar 11 - Mar 28, 2022 - $6495 USD • Kinabatangan River & Wildlife Day 12: Remote Danum Valley Comfort Level Day 13: Danum Valley to Sukau Daily Itinerary Day 14: Kinabatangan River Safari Some rough roads and travel on traditional boats. Day 1: Arrive in Kuching Day 15: Gomantong Caves, to Sepilok, Orangutan Rehabilitation Center Day 2: Explore Colonial Kuching Accommodations Boat to Selingan ‘Turtle’ Island Day 3: Sarawak Cultural Village Day 16: Comfortable hotels/lodges with private Boat to Sandakan, Fly to Kota Day 4: Kubah National Park Day 17: washrooms. Kinabalu Day 5: Mulu National Park - Lang and Day 18: Depart

Selingan“Turtle”Island

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The lush island of Sumatra, with its many tribes, out of the collapsed caldera. We land on Anak cultures, wildlife reserves, jungles, rivers, spectacular and climb to a spectacular viewpoint. waterfalls and crater lakes is a joy for any traveller We continue to Way Kambas National Park, which is interested in natural beauty and diverse cultures. We home to a myriad of wildlife including birds, monkeys, travel south along the rugged Bukit Barisan Mountain Sumatran elephants, the elusive and the Range, exploring a number of fantastic sights and cultures very rare Sumatran rhino, with only 100 rhinos worldwide enroute, including the Orangutan Rehabilitation Reserve is considered the world’s most endangered large animal. (Bukit Lawang) as well as spectacular , where the We explore this seldom-visited park on foot and by jeep. proud Batak people call home. We cross the equator before We return to for our last night in Sumatra before reaching Bukittinggi, home to the Minangkabau people, flying to Jakarta for our homeward flights, or to join our one of the few remaining matrilineal societies in the world. Java, Bali & Komodo adventure. We fly south to Jakarta and cross the Sunda Strait by speedboat to Krakatoa volcano, famous for the 1883 massive eruption creating a powerful tsunami and changed the Earth’s climate for several years. In 1927 the volcanic island, known today as , emerged

74 Combines with Java & Bali. Daily bukit malaysia lawang medan Activity Level: 3 Itinerary brastagi Day 1: Arrival in Medan lake toba padang Fact File Day 2: Drive to Bukit sidempuan • 20 land days Lawang equator Day 3: Orangutan bukittinggi • Maximum 16 travelers padang • Start in Medan and finish in Jakarta Rehabilitation Reserve, Tangkaha • All meals included sumatra Day 4: Jungle Hike, to • Includes 2 flights Brastagi Highlights Day 5: Brastagi, Samosir Island way kampas • Visit Bukit Lawang Orangutan Re- lampung serve Day 6: Lake Toba Boat jakarta Excursion krakatoa • Visit the Rhino Breeding Center at anyar Way Kambas to see the rarest large Day 7: Lake Toba animal on earth Day 8: Minangkabau Day 15: Speedboat to Krakatoa, Hike to • See the mountains, jungle and volca- Highlands, Padang Sidenpuan Viewpoint, Drive to Lampung noes of Sumatra Day 9: Cross the Equator, to Bukittinggi Day 16: To Way Kambas National Park, • Hike through rural villages Day 10: Cultural West Sumatra and the Night Walk Singgalang Walk • Learn about the tribal Batak of Lake Day 17: Jeep Safari, School Visit, Toba Day 11: Bukittinggi and the Cooking Class, Evening Village • Explore Bukittinggi and learn about Minangkabau Culture Performance its matrilineal society Day 12: Sianok Canyon, the Great Wall, Day 18: Jeep Safari, Return to Lampung • Journey to Krakatoa and climb ‘Child Japanese Tunnels Day 19: To Jakarta of’ Krakatoa Day 13: To Padang, Dance Performance Day 20: Departure • Search for wildlife in Way Kambas Day 14: Fly to Jakarta, Drive to Anyer Departure Dates & Price Oct 01 - Oct 20, 2021 - $5495 USD Oct 03 - Oct 22, 2022 - $5495 USD Comfort Level Some rough roads and long drives. Accommodations Comfortable, well-located accommodations with private bathrooms throughout. 7 nights with ceiling fans but no air conditioning in hot locations (2 nights in Bukit Lawang, 2 nights Way Kambas, and 3 nights in Samosir Island, which is typically cooler).

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We begin on the famed island of Java, and start our join a trip to Menjangan Island, with its spectacular tour in the historic capital of , the cultural snorkeling and swimming. Take traditional fishing center of Java. On a series of day trips, we shall explore boats to a white sand beach with crystal blue water for temples and sites including - the world’s swimming. largest Buddhist temple and largest ancient monument Fly to Bajo, Flores, our base to see Komodo in the Southern Hemisphere. We take the train to dragons, the world’s largest lizard. We journey to Rinca Surabaya and head south to where we and Komodo Islands by overnight boat, allowing us will watch the magnificent sunrise on the volcano, with a magical experience where you can swim, snorkel an optional hike to the rim. or simply relax in nature, overnighting in a stunning We continue to the exotic island of Bali, where sheltered bay instead of returning to the city! We also we will divide our time between the artistic and journey to the fascinating Manggarai, who perform cultural center of , and the beachside towns the enthralling caci dance. We fly back to Bali for our of Permuteran and Candidasa. While in Northern farewell dinner and departure. Bali, explore seldom visited Bali Barat National Park (particularly good for those interested in birdlife), or

76 Includes overnight boat journey to Komodo and Rinca Islands

surabaya borobudur mt. bromo menjangan is. yogyakarta java bali banyuwangi komodo is. labuan bajo ubud candidasa flores denpasar rinca is.

Combines with Sumatra. Day 3: Yogyakarta - Artistic Heart of Manggarai Java Day 17: Komodo Dragon Adventure, Activity Level: 2 Day 4: Sunrise at Borobudur Rinca Island by Overnight Boat Fact File Day 5: To Mt. Bromo Day 18: Komodo Island, Snorkeling, Day 6: Volcanic Landscape of Mt. Return to Flores • 20 land days Bromo Day 19: Fly to Bali, Farewell Dinner • Maximum 16 travelers Bromo Sunrise, to Bali Day 20: Departure • All meals included Day 7: • Start in Yogyakarta and finish in Day 8: Bali Barat National Park & Departure Dates & Prices Menjangan Island Denpasar Oct 20 - Nov 08, 2021 - $5695 USD • Includes 2 internal flights Day 9: To Mt. Batur & Ubud Oct 22 - Nov 10, 2022 - $5695 USD • Includes 1 overnight on boat during Day 10: Komodo adventure Day 11: Traditional Home & Dinner Comfort Level With a Local Balinese Family Some rough roads and long drives. Highlights Day 12: Ubud - the Arts of Bali Accommodations • Discover Borobudur Temple Day 13: Ubud, Besakih Temple, to • Wander through the temple complex Candidasa Comfortable, well-located of Prambanan Day 14: Candidasa: Tirtagganga & Pasir accommodations with private bathrooms • Sunrise hike to the crater of Mount Putih throughout. Includes 1 overnight on Bromo Day 15: Candidasa, Fly to Flores boat during Komodo adventure • Overnight boat journey to see Ko- Day 16: Dance Ceremony of the modo dragons on Rinca and Komodo islands • Swim or snorkel at Menjangan Island Reef (scuba diving available; not included) • Explore Ubud, the cultural center of Bali • Experience the arts, dance and cul- ture of Bali Daily Itinerary Day 1: Arrival Day 2: Ancient Hindu Temple of Prambanan

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Papua New Guinea is like no other place on Earth - with traditional tribal clothing and body decoration, where culturally rich and geographically remote, with some of the the tribes come from all over Papua New Guinea. most stunning scenery anywhere. Papua New Guinea is one of the most culturally From the rugged mountains to the coastal islands, this interesting places on Earth, with many of its tribal people journey is an adventure of a lifetime. We meet and learn following a traditional lifestyle. This adventure has been about some of the tribal people of this land including designed to experience the villages and people of Papua the Asaro Mudmen, the Wahgi, the Simbu, the Kaguel, New Guinea. In order to do this, we visit a number of local the Melpa and the fascinating Trobriand Islanders. Our villages and we overnight in one village. There are overnight adventure includes many village visits so that we can really stays where the accommodation is very basic; it can be meet the people and experience their way of life. We explore dormitory style and have no fans/air conditioning and very the Sepik River by wooden canoe and spend 3 nights on limited facilities. As much of the interior of the country Kiriwina Island (part of the Trobriand Islands), where has no roads or impassable ones, we maximize our time people live a traditional lifestyle. Throughout our journey, by flying from location to location and flight schedules we encounter amazing birdlife, lush flora, stunning scenery frequently change. While we endeavor to do/see everything and some of the most fascinating tribal people on Earth. listed in the itinerary, it is common for changes to occur to Our August (Mt. Hagen festival) and September (Goroka the itinerary for things that are beyond our control. Traveler festival) departures both feature a two-day spectacular must be prepared for changes to this program, either before “singsing” - a traditional song and dance festival, complete your journey starts or during the trip itself.

78 Day 12: Sepik River Excursion Activity Level: 2/3 QHN\HY WYLZLY]L ^L^HR Day 13: Sepik River, Return to Fact File Wewak ZLWPR YP]LY • 21 land days T[ Day 14: Depart Wewak, Loloata OHNLU THKHUN • Maximum 16 travelers Island • Start and finish in Port Moresby Day 15: Fly to Kiriwina Island, NVYVRH • All meals included WHW\H OPNOSHUKZ Trobriand Islands UL^ • Includes 5 internal flights Day 16: Kiriwina Island, N\PULH Trobriand Islands [YVIYPHUK Highlights PZSHUKZ Kaibola Village, Trobriand • Encounter the Asaro Mudmen, the Day 17: Islands Wahgi, Simbu, Kaguel, Melpa and WVY[ TVYLZI` Trobriand Islanders tribes Day 18: Return to Port Moresby • Mt. Hagen ‘singsing’ festival (Aug Day 19: Port Moresby City Tour Please Note: Papua New Guinea is one dep) Day 20: Virirata National Park of the most culturally interesting places • Goroka ‘singsing’ festival (Sep dep) Day 21: Depart Port Moresby on Earth, with many of its tribal people • Visit the remote Trobriand Islands H\Z[YHSPHfollowing a traditional lifestyle. This • 3-day Sepik River adventure by Departure Dates & Prices adventure has been designed to experience wooden canoe *Aug 12 - Sep 01, 2021 - $11995 USD the villages and people of Papua New Daily Itinerary **Sep 09 - Sep 29, 2021 - $11995 USD Guinea. In order to do this, we visit a *Aug 11 - Aug 31, 2022 - $11995 USD number of local villages and we overnight Day 1: Arrive in Port Moresby **Sep 15 - Oct 05, 2022 - $11995 USD in one village. There are overnight stays Day 2: Port Moresby to Mt. Hagen where the accommodation is very basic; it Days 3-4: Mt. Hagen Cultural Show Price includes $1400 USD of domestic air cost. can be dormitory style and have no fans/ Day 5: In Search of Birds of Paradise, *Mt. Hagen Singsing Festival air conditioning and very limited facilities. Tambul Village **Goroka Singsing Festival As much of the interior of the country has Day 6: Mt. Hagen to Goroka Comfort Level no roads or impassable ones, we maximize Day 7: Goroka Sites our time by flying from location to location and flight schedules frequently change. Day 8: Goroka to Madang 2 days over 8,000 feet. Local roads can be rough and wet. Travelers must be While we endeavor to do/see everything Day 9: Madang flexible and prepared for day-to-day listed in the itinerary, nothing in Papua Day 10: Fly to Wewak changes. Some areas are very primitive. New Guinea goes as planned, so travelers Day 11: To Sepik River must be prepared for changes to this Accommodations program as we travel. On the Sepik river, we have 2 nts. in basic dormitory accommodation (tribal longhouses) with limited bathing and toilet facilities. Trobriand Island accommodation is basic with private facilities.

Hornbill

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 79 Includes Bora Bora Sailing In The Remote Marquesas islands

The lush, jagged volcanic islands of the Marquesas are war clubs and tapa - a traditional bark cloth. Very little French Polynesia’s most spectacular island chain. You has changed in these untouched islands. Visitors are rare can imagine their raw beauty, the welcoming people and but very welcome! their mysterious stone tikis by reading the adventures of Paul Gauguin, Herman Melville, Jack , Robert Louis Stevenson and Thor Heyerdahl. Today, there is no Important: We strongly recommend that you arrive better way to explore these enchanting islands than by 1 day early. If there are any flight delays and you miss passenger/freighter. the embarkation of the Aranui, ElderTreks & the Aranui are not responsible for lost services or extra expenses incurred to connect with the ship. Your days will be filled with adventure, as we journey to the Tuamotu and Marquesas Islands. Well-trained guides will take you hiking to ancient archaeological sites. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and This is not an ElderTreks operated tour. As such, participants on this tour are not exclusive ElderTreks clients and it may not horseback riding. You’ll visit charming villages and see adhere to ElderTreks’ maximum size restrictions of our tours. local artisans making intricately-carved wooden bowls,

80 Activity Level: 2 Day 9: Ua Huka (Vaipaee-Hane- Hokatu) MARQUESAS ARCHIPELAGO nuku hiva Fact File Day 10: At Sea ua huka • 13 days Day 11: Tuamotu Archipelago - FRENCH ua pou • Start and finish in Papeete, Tahiti Rangiroa POLYNESIA hiva oa • All meals on ship and land included Day 12: Society Islands - Bora • Guided excursions included Bora TUAMOTU ARCHIPELAGO tahuata • Scuba diving, horseback riding, Day 13: Morning arrival in deep sea fishing tours available at takapoto Papeete, Tahiti rangiroa fatu hiva additional cost Departure Dates bora bora Highlights Jan 19 -Jan 31, 2021* papeete • Scuba diving, horseback riding, Feb 06 -Feb 18, 2021* tahiti helicopter tours available at Mar 06 - Mar 18, 2021 additional cost Mar 20 - Apr 01, 2021 2021 Prices • Visit volcanic amphitheater in Apr 08 - Apr 20, 2021 Stateroom from - $5120 USD Nuku Hiva Bay Apr 24 - May 06, 2021 Deluxe cabin from - $6170 USD • Visit grave site of Paul Gauguin on May 22 -Jun 03, 2021 Superior cabin from - $6680 USD Hiva Oa Jun 10 - Jun 22, 2021 All cabins based on twin share with private • Visit Fatu Hiva, center of Jun 26 - Jul 08, 2021 ­bathrooms. The price does not include Jul 15 - Jul 27, 2021 Marquesian culture Aug 05 - Aug 17, 2021 Tourism Tax, Port/Cruise fees, fuel sur- • Discover island of wild horses - Ua Aug 21 - Sep 02, 2021 charge (approx $460). This trip is not exclu- Huka Sep 18 - Sep 30, 2021 sive to ElderTreks. Oct 07 - Oct 19, 2021 Daily Itinerary Oct 23 -Nov 04, 2021 Comfort Level Day 1: Arrive in Papeete, Tahiti Nov 06 - Nov 18, 2021 Seas can be rough. Shore landings (using Day 2: Tuamotu Archipelago - Nov 27 - Dec 09, 2021 traditional style whaleboats). Dec 16 - Dec 28, 2021 Fakarava Accommodations Day 3: At Sea * 10% discount for Standard Cabins only. Travel aboard the upscale passenger & Day 4: Arrival to the Marquesas cargo freighter, Aranui 5. Cabins range Archipelago, Island of Nuku Hiva; from standard to deluxe staterooms, as Traditional Marquesas Lunch in the well as a variety of suites, all with private Village of Hatiheu facilities. Day 5: Ua Pou - Marquesas Lunch Day 6: Hiva Oa (Atuona) and Tahuata (Vaitahu) Day 7: Hiva Oa (Puamau) & Tahuata (Kokuu) Day 8: Fatu Hiva (Omoa-Hanavave)

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auckland Day 2: Karangahake Gorge Windows Walk, lake to Rotorua okataina Day 3: Lake Okataina, Maori Pa Site, Te waitomo rotorua lake Puia Thermal Wonderland and Mud Pools taupo Day 4: Huka Falls Near Taupo, Hike Lake turangi Tongariro Rotopounamu National Park Day 5: Tongariro National Park, Afternoon Tea at Cheateau Tongariro Day 6: Waitomo Caves and Glowworms, HANMER Return to Auckland SPRINGS kaikoura Day 7: Fly to Christchurch, Walking Tour mount cook Day 8: Head North to Kaikoura, Whale Kea bird christchurch Watching Tour milford lake sound ohau tekapo Day 9: Hanmer Springs Forest, Scenic Jet queenstown Boat and Soak in Mineral Waters lake wakatipu Day 10: Peel Forest, Explore Lake Tekapo destination - New Zealand. On this active trip, explore caves, geothermal areas and Activity Level: 3/4 Day 11: Explore Aoraki/Mt. Cook glaciers. Go whale watching, visit a working Day 12: Queenstown, Ride the Historial sheep farm, and learn about the fascinating Fact File Earnslaw Steamship Maori culture. • 15 land days Day 13: Explore Fiordland, Overnight at • Maximum 14 travelers On the North Island, travel to Waitomo and Milford Sound the fairy tale glowworm caves and explore • Start in Auckland, finish in Queenstown Day 14: Walk Milford Track, Return to the Cave of the Spirit “Te Ana o te Atua”. • Includes 1 internal flight Queenstown, Afternoon Wine Tasting Experience the boiling mud pools at Te Wha- • All meals included Day 15: Depart Queenstown karewarewa geothermal valley, and enjoy breathtaking scenery around Lake Taupo Highlights Departure Dates & Prices and Tongariro National Park. • Geothermal mud pools and geysers Feb 02 - Feb 16, 2021 - $7195 USD We return back to Auckland and fly to • Glowworm caves and Maori culture Feb 03 - Feb 17, 2022 - $7195 USD Christchurch in the South Island. We’ll have • Christchurch’s garden city Comfort Level Some long drives. a scenic boat ride through the Waiau Canyon • Historic steamship and working sheep followed by a soak in the hot pools. We’ll ride the historical Earnslaw steamship and farm ACCommodations enjoy a whale watching excursion, as well as • Mildford Sound cruise Comfortable accommodations with marvel at the peaks and glaciers of Mount private bathrooms. Our beautiful lodge • Whale watching Cook. We end our trip with a cruise and located within Milford Sound has limited overnight in Milford Sound National Park. • Turquoise blue glacial hikes and soak in availability and a few rooms may have a mineral hot pools shared bathroom for 1 night. This 15 day off-the-beaten-track itinerary Daily Itinerary offers the very best of New Zealand’s natural Spectacular natural wonders, cosmopoli- wonders, while encompassing the ‘must see’ Day 1: Arrive in Auckland tan cities, friendly people, a comfortable highlights. climate...all elements of the perfect travel

82

Classic Cuba Stride’s Best Guided Tour For Baby Boomers

Discover Cuba - a Caribbean gem! Now less forbidden really like. Join us as we go in search of the vibrant culture and naturally enticing for all who desire to find a cultural of Cuba. oasis of warm generous people. Cuba’s riches go beyond its vibrant culture and famous white sand beaches. It offers CAN AMERICANS LEGALLY TRAVEL TO a rich natural landscape which includes no less than 4 CUBA? UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 2 UNESCO Biosphere The short answer is ABSOLUTELY YES! Reserves. Be inspired by Cuba’s soulful art, musical rhythms Our Classic Cuba & Eastern Cuba tours fall under OFAC and vibrant dance. Reconnect with Havana’s heyday of the compliancy guidelines. Both are full-time programs with 1950’s with a performance at the Tropicana Cabaret. many inclusions and little to no free time on most days of Enjoy a walking tour through the streets of old Havana; the program. With this consideration, all of our Cuban tours visit a cigar factory; walk along paths in search of native fall within 1 of the 12 categories that qualify for a general bird life in the national parks; lay back and relax on one authorization to travel to Cuba by the US Government. of Cuba’s famous beaches; attend the Tropicana Cabaret Some airlines will request you to complete a self declaration show; and most importantly, make contact with the Cuban or traveler certification form prior to boarding your flight to people. Our adventure maximizes our interaction with the Havana. Please choose the “Support for the Cuban People” local people so you can learn first hand what life in Cuba is option on your OFAC declaration form.

84 Activity Level: 1 havana santa Fact File sierra del clara • 13 land days rosario • Maximum 16 travelers zapata escambray • Start and finish in Havana marshlands • All meals included vinales mts. • Cuban medical insurance included cienfuegos Highlights trinidad cuba • Visit 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites - colonial Trinidad, Old • Visit to seniors center Marshlands Havana, Cienfuegos and the Vinales • Cultural interactions and musical Day 6: Cienfuegos Sites, Sunset Cruise Valley performances Day 7: Social Cuba, Colonial Trinidad • Visit 2 UNESCO Biosphere Daily Itinerary (UNESCO) Reserves - Sierra del Rosario & the Day 8: Cuban Percussion, Beach Time Day 1: Arrive in Havana Zapata Marshlands Day 9: Escambray Mountains, to Santa Day 2: Havana Sites & Afro Cuban • Clara Escambray Mountains Religion • Attend the famous Tropicana Day 10: Santa Clara - Revolution Sites Day 3: Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve Day 11: Hemingway’s Home, Classic Cabaret Day 4: Vinales Valley, Indian’s Cave • Vintage 1950’s car tour American Cars & Tropicana Cabaret Day 5: To Cienfuegos via the Day 12: Havana - Entrepreneurship, Buena Vista Social Club Day 13: Depart Havana

Departure Dates & Prices Jan 12 - Jan 24, 2021 - $4295 USD Feb 02 - Feb 14, 2021 - $4295 USD Mar 02 - Mar 14, 2021 - $4295 USD Apr 06 - Apr 18, 2021 - $4295 USD May 04 - May 16, 2021 - $4295 USD Jun 01 - Jun 13, 2021 - $4295 USD Nov 16 - Nov 28, 2021 - $4295 USD Dec 07 - Dec 19, 2021 - $4295 USD Jan 11 - Jan 23, 2022 - $4295 USD Feb 01 - Feb 13, 2022 - $4295 USD Mar 01 - Mar 13, 2022 - $4295 USD Apr 05 - Apr 17, 2022 - $4295 USD May 03 - May 15, 2022 - $4295 USD Nov 08 - Nov 20, 2022 - $4295 USD Dec 08 - Dec 20, 2022 - $4295 USD

Comfort Level Some long drives Accommodations Comfortable, well-located hotels with private bathrooms throughout.

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Eastern Cuba has historically been the most Cuba and the Revolution without understanding remote part of the island, yet it has inspired Castro. Visit important revolution sites and the rebellion, revolution, the arts, music and dance. birthplace of Fidel Castro, and his brother Raul, in On our journey, we visit 4 stunning colonial cities, Birán. traverse the island’s highest mountain range, hike Enjoy a local cooking lesson in delicious and boat in the most diverse national park in the authentic Cuban cuisine and visit the Humboldt Caribbean, and visit 3 UNESCO World Heritage National Park (UNESCO), close to one of the most Sites. eastern points on the island of Cuba. Visit this Learn about Cuba’s history as we visit the virtually untouched part of Cuba to enjoy colonial colonial gems of Santiago de Cuba (1515), Bayamo architecture, natural beauty, learn about Cuban (1513), Baracoa (1511), and Gibara (1817) on foot, society, politics and experience the warmth and horse and carriage, and bicycle-taxi. charm of the island of Cuba and its people! Learn about Fidel Castro’s Revolution and the man himself, as it is impossible to understand

86 Activity Level: 2 Fact File • 15 land days • Maximum 16 travelers • Start and finish in Havana • All meals included • Cuban medical insurance included Highlights • Explore the colonial gems of Santiago, Bayamo, Baracoa and Gibara • Learn about Fidel Castro and his Revolution and visit his final Daily Itinerary Day 11: Fidel Castro’s Revolution, El resting place Day 1: Arrive in Havana Morro, Granjita Siboney to Moncada • Learn about Cuba’s famous Cine Day 2: To Sancti Spiritus, City Tour Barracks in Vintage Cars Pobre Film Festival in Gibara Day 3: To Gibara via Camaguey Day 12: To Camaguey (UNESCO) via Bayamo, El Cobre, Casanova • Hike and boat in Humboldt (UNESCO) Day 13: To Havana, via Ciego de Avila National Park (UNESCO) Day 4: Gibara Sites & Santa Clara • Enjoy an authentic Cuban cooking Day 5: Jeep Adventure to Local Home, Day 14: Colonial Havana, Farmers lesson and learn about local Columbus’ Landing in the New World in Market, Columbus Cemetery delicacies 1492 Day 15: Depart Havana • See the cross left by Christopher Day 6: To Baracoa via Birán Columbus in Baracoa’s cathedral Day 7: Baracoa, Toa River Departure Dates & Prices • Visit San Pedro de la Roca Castle Day 8: Humboldt National Park Jan 25 - Feb 08, 2021 - $4295 USD (UNESCO) Day 9: To Santiago de Cuba Traversing Feb 15 - Mar 01, 2021 - $4295 USD the Sierra Maestra Mtns, Casa del • Visit to a local cacao farm & Cuban Apr 19 - May 03, 2021 - $4295 USD Changui, Guantanamo Bay cigar factory Jan 24 - Feb 07, 2022 - $4295 USD • Stay at the famous Hotel Nacional Day 10: Santa Ifigenia Cemetery & Colonial Santiago Feb 14 - Feb 28, 2022 - $4295 USD de Cuba Apr 18 - May 02, 2022 - $4295 USD

Comfort Level Some long drives. Accommodations Comfortable, well-located hotels with private bathrooms throughout.

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ElderTreks’ 20-day journey to the Lost World of Our exciting journey includes so much more than the Mayans is probably the most exhilarating Mayan Mayan ruins. We explore lagoons and rivers teeming trip you will ever encounter. This fantastic adventure with birds as well as monkeys, crocodiles, turtles and includes the great Mayan cities of Tikal (Guatemala), much more. Experience the Caribbean culture of Copan (Honduras), Caracol or Xunantunich (Belize), Livingston and the traditional Indigenous cultures of Palenque, Uxmal, Chichen Itza and Tulum (Mexico). Chichicastenango, featuring its vibrant and colorful We also journey to seldom-visited Calakmul, Tikal’s market held on Thursdays and Sundays. And, we great rival. We explore remote Yaxchilan, accessible cannot forget about the colonial gems of Merida, only by boat, before crossing the border into with the oldest cathedral in the Americas, the seaside Guatemala. Visit Quirigua, the site which includes the fortress of Campeche, Lake Atitlan, surrounded stelae with its Mayan calendar referring to in the “end by 3 volcanoes and finally Antigua, a true colonial of the world” predictions for Dec 21, 2012. The demise masterpiece! We hope you can join ElderTreks’ unique of the Mayan civilization - the end of the world as journey to the Mayan world that promises to be foretold in the astrology and beliefs of the Mayan, have nothing short of memorable. long created intrigue and mystery.

88 Activity Level: 2/3* surrounded by volcanoes Celestun *Some (optional) steep climbs of temples. Daily Itinerary Merida Cancun Fact File Day 1: Arrival in Cancun, to Chichen Itza • 20 land days Playa del Carmen Uxmal Tulum Day 2: Oceanside Ruins of • Maximum 16 travelers Campeche Tulum, Swim in the Pristine • Start in Cancun, Mexico and finish Freshwater of a Cenote in Antigua, Guatemala Mexico Day 3: Chichen Itza, Convent • All meals included of Izamal, to Merida Highlights Day 4: Merida, to Lagoon of Celestun Calakmul • Explore Tikal and its main rival, the Day 5: Uxmal, to Campeche seldom-visited Calakmul Tikal Palenque Belize • Visit 13 magnificent Mayan sites Day 6: Campeche Fort, to Flores Calakmul including Palenque, Chichen Yaxchilan Caracol Itza, Tikal, Calakmul, Caracol (or Day 7: Explore Seldom-Visited Xunantunich) and Copan Calakmul, to Palenque Livingston • 9 UNESCO Sites Day 8: Impressive Mayan Site Guatemala • Visit the colonial gems of Antigua, of Palenque, to Vallescondido Chichicastenango Quirigua Campeche and Merida Day 9: Boat Journey to Remote Lake Copan Atitlan Guatemala • Hear the call of howler monkeys Yaxchilan, to Flores, Guatemala City Honduras • Superb bird watching at most Mayan Antigua Day 10: Exploration of Tikal sites, as well as river excursions Day 11: The Mayan Site of along Rio Dulce and the lagoon at Comfort Level Celestun Caracol, Belize • Search for crocodiles, toucans, Day 12: To the Caribbean Town of Some long drives, at times roads can be rough macaws, hummingbirds and Livingston via Rio Dulce and dusty. Hot and humid in the jungle. monkeys Day 13: Playa Blanca & Livingston Accommodations • Visit the colorful market in Culture Comfortable hotels/lodges with private Chichicastenango Day 14: Boat to Puerto Barrios, bathrooms. • Enjoy the Caribbean culture of Quirigua, to Copan, Honduras Livingston Day 15: Copan, Honduras Uxmal • Boat journey on Lake Atitlan, Day 16: To Antigua, Guatemala Howler Monkey Day 17: Colorful Market of Chichicastenango, to Lake Atitlan Day 18: Lake Atitlan Boat Trip, to Antigua Day 19: Exploring Antigua Day 20: Depart Antigua Departure Dates & Prices Jan 12 - Jan 31, 2021 - $5995 USD Jan 11 - Jan 30, 2022 - $5995 USD Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 89 Costa Rica is an oasis of natural wonders known for its pottery making. - volcanoes, rainforests, white sand beaches, At Arenal Volcano, walk on the famous Arenal coral reefs and wildlife - all within a world- Hanging Bridges, visit La Fortuna Waterfall renowned system of national parks that protects and enjoy the nearby Eco-Termales Hot Springs more species of mammals and birds than the for a satisfying soak in the thermal pools. The continental U.S.A. and Canada combined. highlight for many is the boat journey through Our trip features Costa Rica’s natural wonders, the extensive, wildlife-rich canal system of experienced through an active program of hikes, Tortuguero National Park. For active nature river safaris and horseback rides. Enjoy the lovers seeking pristine rainforest, exotic wildlife, pristine flora and fauna of Monteverde, Manuel active volcanoes and superb birding, Costa Rica is Antonio and Sarapiqui during a tropical forest the perfect adventure destination. walk, ziplining, a river journey and rafting. Feel the welcoming energy of a local community untouched by tourism and an Indigenous village

90 Activity Level: 3 Daily Itinerary IS\LYP]LY YPUJVU ]VSJHUV Fact File Day 1: Arrive in San José Day 2: To Tortuguero N.P. via [VY[\N\LYV • 15 land days SHRL ZHYHWPX\P Braulio Carrillo N.P. HYLUHS • Maximum 16 travelers Day 3: Wildlife of HYLUHS JH|V • Start and finish in San Jose Tortuguero National Park ISHUJV • All meals included Day 4: Canals of TVU[L]LYKL Tortuguero, to Sarapiqui IYH\SPV Highlights Day 5: Sarapiqui Rafting JHYYPSSV • Explore Tortuguero National Park UW Adventure ZHUQVZt and its jungle canals Day 6: To Arenal Volcano, • Enjoy Arenal Volcano Hot Springs • Wildlife viewing, tropical forest walks Day 7: Waterfall Walk and THU\LS & rafting at Sarapiqui Arenal Hanging Bridges HU[VUPVUW • Enjoy Monteverde, Manuel Antonio Day 8: Boat Journey on and Eco-Termales Hot Water Springs Lake Arenal, to Monteverde Hiking, Waterfalls and River Swim • Visit a local community untouched by Cloud Forest Day 12: To Manuel Antonio N.P., tourism Day 9: Monteverde and Ziplining Indigenous Pottery Village • Visit coffee and cocoa plantations Day 10: Rincon de la Vieja, Local Day 13: Manuel Antonio N. P. • Visit an Indigenous village known for Communities Day 14: To San Jose, Coffee Tour its pottery Day 11: Blue River - Horseback Riding, Day 15: Depart San José Departure Dates & Prices Jan 10 - Jan 24, 2021 - $3695 USD Feb 16 - Mar 02, 2021 - $3695 USD Apr 06 - Apr 20, 2021 - $3695 USD Dec 01 - Dec 15, 2021 - $3695 USD Jan 11 - Jan 25, 2022 - $3695 USD Feb 17 - Mar 03, 2022 - $3695 USD Apr 05 - Apr 19, 2022 - $3695 USD Dec 02 - Dec 16, 2022 - $3695 USD Comfort Level Some rough, unpaved roads and long drives. The unpredictable weather is humid and tropical, especially in Tortuguero & Rincon de la Vieja. Spurts of rain make it refreshing. Accommodations Comfortable hotels/lodges with private bathrooms.

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Exchange a curious glance with a blue-footed boobie, encounter during our naturalist guided adventure. admire stunning tri-colored marine iguanas and watch the Cool off with a refreshing ocean dip, or snorkel with ever-playful sea lions frolic in the surf. The non-preditorial stingrays and view the fantastic underwater world of environment of Darwin’s Galapagos has created a non- sea turtles, dolphins, florescent tropical fish and colorful threatening, relaxed and magical connection with wildlife coral gardens, before departing for your next evolutionary unlike any other on Earth. marvel. Our 11-day Galapagos adventure starts and finishes Few Galapagos journeys include the seldom-visited in the colonial capital of Quito, nestled in the Andes. western islands. ElderTreks’ Galapagos adventure does Enjoy a scenic city tour, taking in the sites and sounds include this hard-to-get-to region, making our trip unique and admiring the colonial architecture. The short flight and remote, and providing a Darwinian experience second- to Baltra delivers us to our comfortable yacht. Watch for to-none. dolphins riding the bow, like oceanic messengers taking us to our next equatorial volcanic island, each with its unique This is not an ElderTreks operated tour. As such, endemic species perfectly adapted to its environment. participants on this tour are not exclusive ElderTreks Pink flamingos, Galapagos penguins, giant tortoises and clients and it may not adhere to ElderTreks’ maximum size a myriad of birdlife, including the fish-stealing frigate and restrictions of our tours. the enormous albatross, are just some of the wildlife we

92 Includes Western Islands

Activity Level: 3 Salinas genovesa Ibarra Fact File Otavalo • 11 days Quito • Small ship cruising santiago • Start, finish in Quito, Ecuador rabida baltra ECUADOR • All meals on ship included fernandina plazas • Land portion includes breakfast santa isabela cruz • Includes 2 internal flights santa fe Highlights • Search for unique wildlife including: Day 11: Depart Quito blue-footed boobies, tri-colored Comfort Level marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins Departure dates 4 days over 9,000 ft. in Quito. Sea can and giant tortoises, just to mention a Legend departures - weekly be rough when crossing to the western few islands. Zodiac landings required. • Swimming and snorkeling Price from: $5975 USD Accommodations • Enjoy island excursions led by Prices includes Galapagos airfare, 7 nights on either shared or single naturalists National Park Fee: $100 USD, Transit • Explore colonial Quito on ship in Galapagos (all cabins have Control Fee: $10 USD. Prices subject to private bathrooms). On land, single Daily Itinerary change. accomodations with private bathrooms. Day 1: Arrive in Quito *Dates are not exclusive to ElderTreks. IMPORTANT NOTE: Few Galapagos Day 2: City Quito You may be joined by other journeys include the seldom-visited Day 3: Fly to Galapagos Islands, international passengers. western islands. Some ElderTreks Highlands Tortoise Reserve (Santa Cruz Galapagos departures include this Island) hard-to-get-to region, making our trip Day 4: El Barranco, Prince Philip’s Steps, unique and remote and providing a Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island) Darwinian experience second-to-none. Day 5: Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz), Santa Fe Island Day 6: Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz Island), Mosquera Islet Day 7: Egas Port (Santiago Island), Rabida Extension Island. Machu Picchu - from $1595 USD Day 8: Urbina Bay, Tagus Cove (Isabela) (based on double occupancy) Espinosa Point (Fernandina), Day 9: 6 land days: Start and finish in Cusco, Vicente Roca Point (Isabela) Day 10: Pit Craters (Santa Cruz), Fly to Peru. Quito Internal flights not included.

M/V Legend Please note: If you would like to extend your time in the Galapagos, please call our office for more infor- mation.

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Lodge to Lodge to Machu Picchu

Accommodations JOVX\LJHUJOH Charming mountain lodges built in traditional Inca style with private bathrooms. 7,9< */0*3(@6 SHYLZ The Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu offers the perfect combination of adventure travel and O\HJHO\HZP cultural immersion. Your experience on our 7 day THJO\ lodge-to-lodge journey will alternate between an WPJJO\ exploration of the astounding natural scenery of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and an intimate look VSSHU[H`[HTIV at Andean culture, both in busy towns and in the most-remote of mountain hamlets. SHTH` Daily expeditions will lead you along seldom- 30)@( THYHZ traveled highland trails surrounded by exquisite HWVSSVUPH snow-capped peaks, past roving herds of llamas WPZHX and alpacas, around impossibly hued turquoise (SSOPRLZVU[OPZ[V\Y JOPUJOLYV lakes, and through graceful waterfalls. Your desti- HYLVW[PVUHS^P[OV[OLY nations will include fascinating archaeological sites, J\S[\YHSHJ[P]P[PLZ thought-provoking agricultural and commercial H]HPSHISL Andean cooperatives, and bustling towns and mar- Fact File Departure Dates & PricesJ\ZJV kets showcasing the flavors of the region as well as the wares of its skilled artisans. Most importantly, • 7 land days Weekly departures - call our office • Maximum 26 travelers you will travel to hidden communities unchanged for details for centuries for a unique up-close visit with local • Start and finish in Cusco Low Season From: $2450 USD • All meals included people. High Season From: $3600 USD Expert guides tailor the experience with an offer of Highlights Low Season: Mar 1 - Mar 31 and Nov 1 - Dec 14. à la carte activities and daily cultural encounters. • Stay at charming mountain lodges High Season: Apr 1 - Oct 31 and Dec 15 - Dec 31. At each day’s sunset, settle into deluxe mountain • Choice of daily activities ACTIVITY LEVEL 1-3 lodges run in partnership with local communities, • Visit local communities COMFORT LEVEL Each day offers to prepare for a new day of multi-activity adventure • Explore local markets and exploration. • Visit Pisaq, Chinchero & Ollantaytambo different activities to choose from - cultural or sites hiking options. • Quiswarani & Patacancha optional hikes • Machu Picchu Daily Itinerary Day 1: Sacred Valley of the Incas, Treasures of the Sacred Valley Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas, Exploring Pisaq Day 3: Lares Region, Inca Sites and Vil- lages Day 4: Lares Valley, Exploring Huacahuasi Day 5: The Patacancha and Sacred Valley of the Incas Day 6: Sacred Valley of the Incas, Discovering Ollantaytambo Day 7: Machu Picchu, the Sanctuary

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Peru & Bolivia

Discover breathtaking Machu Picchu, relax in the bordered by Incan-era stone walls — the ruins of former tranquility of Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca and discover palaces. Travel by train down the gorge of the roaring wildlife in the dense Amazonian jungle. From the Andes to Urubamba River to Machu Picchu — the famous “Lost City the Amazon, experience diverse culture, rugged geography Of The Incas” and a phenomenal archaeological site. For the and rich history on this 20-day journey through Peru and more adventurous, hike the steep trail up Huayna Picchu Bolivia. for a spectacular view over the ruins. Take a mountain flight Beginning in La Paz, Bolivia, visit the Murillo Museum over the Andes to Puerto Maldonado and canoe up the to learn about local customs and explore the market Tambopata River to our Amazon rainforest lodge. district for some unique finds. Next we visit the Uyuni Salt Fly from the Amazon to Lima and continue along the Flats before traveling across the 12,500 ft high Altiplano coast to the Paracas Peninsula, where we board a boat that Mountain Range. Take in spectacular views of the Royal takes us to the volcanic island of Ballestas. The island is Cordillera peaks before boarding a small vessel to cross a home to a wildlife refuge of sea lions, Inca terns, Humboldt narrow strait to the rugged Copacabana Peninsula. penguins and large flocks of gannets and pelicans. On Taquile Island, explore hilltop shrines and commune Board a plane for a 90-minute flight over the Nazca with the Taquile Indians who invite us into their homes Lines — a remnant of the civilizations that prospered along for an overnight stay. Explore the old streets of Cuzco, the Pacific Coast before the arrival of the Europeans.

96 Lake Titicaca

Activity Level: 3 Daily W\LY[V SPTH Itinerary THSKVUHKV Fact File THJO\ • 21 Days Day 1: Arrive in La Paz, WPJJO\ Bolivia J\ZJV • Maximum 16 travelers UHaJH )630=0( Day 2: La Paz - IHSSLZ[HZ SPULZ • Start in La Paz, Bolivia, finish in SHRL Costumbrista Museum, PZSHUK [P[PJHJH Lima, Peru UHaJH W\UV Valley of the Moon 7,9< • All meals included Day 3: To Uyuni Salt Flats • Includes 5 internal flights Day 4: Tiahuanaco to SHWHa Copacabana Highlights Day 5: Copacabana, Lake • Travel to Lake Titicaca Titicaca; To Peru • Cuzco - the oldest inhabited city Day 6: Taquile Island \`\UP in South America Day 7: Taquile Island, • Train to Machu Picchu Puno • Two visits to archaeological site Day 8: To the Inca Capital of Cuzco Comfort Level of Machu Picchu Day 9: Cuzco - Tambo Machay, Kenko, 13 days over 9,000 feet. Some rough/ • Fly over the Nazca Lines Sacsayhuaman winding roads and long drives. Temperature ranges from cool to hot • Stay at an Amazon rainforest Day 10: Cuzco and humid. lodge Day 11: Pisaq • Visit the Uyuni Salt Flats Day 12: Ollantaytambo & Train to Machu Accommodations Picchu - the Lost City of the Incas • Boat trip to Ballestas Islands Comfortable hotels/lodges with private Day 13: Machu Picchu/Sacred Valley, to washrooms. Features 1 night homestay Cuzco with limited facilities on Taquile Day 14: Fly to the Amazon, Canoe Up the Island. Tambopata Day 15: Lake Condenado - Giant River Otters, Caiman, Piranha Day 16: Tambopata River - Observation Tower, Shaman’s Medicine Garden Day 17: To Ica via Paracas Day 18: Ballestas Islands Day 19: Fly Over Nazca Lines Day 20: Lima City Tour, Larco Museum Day 21: Departure Departure Dates & Prices Oct 10 - Oct 30, 2021 - $5995 USD Oct 09 - Oct 29, 2022 - $6495 USD

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Torres del Paine

Stunning glaciers, turquoise lakes, extinct Patagonia is a nature lover’s delight for its volcanoes, zodiac adventures, wine tasting and incredibly remote and beautiful scenery and tango lessons are just a few of the amazing unique fauna. Visit Los Glaciares National Park highlights of this Patagonia adventure! and cruise by boat along the Perito Moreno Glacier and cross into Chile to Torres del Paine Begin in the cosmopolitan city of Buenos National Park. Explore the Chilean Lakes Aires, Argentina where we learn the sensuous region and see the vibrant green Petrohue Falls tango and visit the expansive Tigre Delta before flying to Santiago. Explore the sights of by riverboat. Fly to the “end of the world”, Santiago and enjoy wine tasting in the world- Ushuaia, and explore the Beagle Channel and famous Maipo Valley to round out this amazing Tierra del Fuego National Park. There, we visit a adventure. Magellanic and gentoo penguin rookery.

98 For Non-hikers

Activity Level 2 Day 4: Fly to Ushuaia, End of The World viña del mar Museum valparaiso santiago maipo Fact File Day 5: Tierra del Fuego, Beagle Channel valley • 17 land days Day 6: Penguin Rookery, Martillo Island ARGENTINA • Maximum 16 travelers Day 7: To El Calafate • Start in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Day 8: Perito Moreno Glacier CHILE lake South finish in Santiago, Chile Day 9: To Torres del Paine National puerto varas llanquihue Atlantic puerto montt Ocean • All meals included Park • Includes 4 internal flights Day 10: Nordenskjold and Grey Lakes Highlights Day 11: To Puerto Natales Day 12: To Puerto Varas • Perito Moreno Glacier perito Day 13: Volcanoes and Petrohué Rapids moreno • Torres del Paine N.P. glacier Day 14: To Santiago torres el calafate • Visit a working estancia del paine n.p. Day 15: Valparaiso puerto natales tierra • Tierra del Fuego and the Beagle del fuego n.p. Day 16: Wine Tasting in the Maipo punta arenas Channel Valley ushuaia beagle gable is. • Magellanic and gentoo penguins Day 17: Depart Santiago channel • Osorno, Calbuco, Puntiagudo and Tronador volcanoes Departure Dates & Prices • Wine tasting in the Maipo Valley Extensions Jan 08 - Jan 24, 2022 - $7695 USD Iguazu Falls • Valparaiso - UNESCO World 3 land days: With 275 cascades spread in a Heritage Site Comfort Level horseshoe shape, the water falls 264 feet in Daily Itinerary Some long drives. a thunderous roar. See it from the Brazilian and Argentine sides. Start and finish in Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Accommodations Iguazu. Argentina Comfortable hotels with private Price: from $1295 USD $1295 USD Day 2: Buenos Aires City Sites bathrooms. (based on double occupancy) Day 3: Tigre Delta Easter Island - See page 102

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Travel to the end of the world and experience remote Eco Camp (Adventure Domes). Our facilities the most stunning panoramas on Earth - snow- include triangular framed geodesic dome structures - capped peaks, arid plateaus, crashing glaciers and each one 12 feet in diameter - equipped with standard turquoise lakes are among Patagonia’s greatest natural twin beds and wooden floors. wonders. Our 16-day adventure travels through one Explore Glacier National Park - a UNESCO World of the planet’s wildest spaces, revealing nature in its Heritage Site - and spend a full day along the edge of primordial splendor. the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the greatest natural We begin by exploring the sophisticated capital of attractions in the Americas. Buenos Aires, before flying to El Calafate. Spend three Crossing into Chile, breathe the “cleanest air in the nights in the Fitz Roy area of Glacier National Park world” at Torres del Paine National Park and hike up hiking through gorges, alongside glaciers and through to the viewpoint to take in the awesome granite spires forests to approach the famed Mount Fitz Roy. of the Blue Towers. Our journey concludes in Punta Explore the Las Colonias Peninsula from our Arenas.

100

santiago

Activity Level: 5 Day 4: Hike Piedra del Fraile and Pollone Glacier Fact File Day 5: Trek to Mount Fitz Roy • 16 land days Day 6: Hike to Laguna Torre • Maximum 16 travelers Day 7: Eco Camp, Las Colonias Peninsula • Start in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Day 8: Eco Camp finish in Punta Arenas, Chile • All meals included Day 9: Perito Moreno Glacier CHILE

ARGENTINA buenos • Includes 1 internal flight Day 10: Life On the Estancia aires Day 11: To Torres del Paine National glacier national Highlights Park, Chile park fitz roy • Buenos Aires tour Day 12: Grey Glaciers, Pehoe Lake, eco camp • Hike to Mount Fitz Roy area Salto Grande el calafate • Explore Perito Moreno Glacier Day 13: Trek in Torres del Paine torres del • Hike in Torres del Paine National Park, Tower Views paine n.p. • Penguins at the Strait of Magellan Day 14: To Punta Arenas punta Daily Itinerary Day 15: Penguin Reserve, Exploring arenas Punta Arenas Including the Sara Brown Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires Museum Day 2: Buenos Aires Departure Dates & Prices Day 16: Depart Punta Arenas Day 3: To El Chalten, Fitz Roy Massif Jan 28 - Feb 12, 2021 - $6495 USD Jan 27 - Feb 11, 2022 - $6495 USD Comfort Level Some rough roads and long drives. Windy and cool hiking conditions. Accommodations Comfortable accommodations. Due to the remoteness and the unique accommoda- tions, larger groups may be required to share bathroom facilities for up to 2 nights. But it’s well worth it - the areas and experi- ences are fantastic! 2 nights EcoCamp in large 2 person domes with floors and twin beds and shared facilities. Single occupancy not guaranteed for all nights.

Extensions Peru - Cultural Journey - Lodge to Lodge to Machu Picchu See page 94 Iguazu Falls See page 99

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Tatio Geysers

Visit four South American countries by fincas (ranches). Enjoy the surreal - Argentina, Uruguay, Chile and Bolivia: landscape of the Atacama - including Tatio regions with fascinating Indigenous Geysers, Laguna Colorado, Valley of the cultures, active volcanos and geysers, Moon, as well as the parks of Talampaya, sublime landscapes and snow-capped Ischigualasto. peaks. Walk through numerous pre- What makes this journey even more Columbian villages and ruins, visit superb impressive is the fact that most of these wine regions and search for guanaco and destinations remain virtually undiscovered vicuna herds roaming the high altiplano. by tourists. Drive over spectacular Andean passes and remote gorges and valleys dotted

102 Laguna Colorada

Activity Level: 2/3 Daily Itinerary Fact File Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires Day 2: Buenos Aires City CHILE BOLIVIA • 22 land days Sites LAGUNA • Maximum 16 travelers COLORADA Day 3: Ferry Crossing to • Start in Buenos Aires, Argentina, CALAMA PARAGUAY finish in Santiago, Chile Colonia, Uruguay Fly to La Rioja, Villa atacama PURMAMARCA • All meals included Day 4: desert • Includes 2 internal flights Union SALTA Day 5: Talampaya National Highlights Park CACHI ARGENTINA • Explore Colonia, Buenos Aires, Day 6: The Triassic Park of BELEN Cachi, Salta and San Pedro de Ischigualasto san juan Atacama Day 7: Miranda Gorge, URUGUAY • Talampaya National Park Mythical Inca Ruins of TALAMPAYA & • Shincal Inca Ruins ISCHIGUALASTO Shincal N. PARKS COLONIA • Porvenir Winery Day 8: The Indian Ruins of • Traverse the Andes Quilmes BUENOS AIRES • Atacama Desert SANTIAGO • Valley of the Moon Day 9: Quebrada de Las • Tatio Geysers Conchas, Wine Vineyards of • Laguna Colorada Cafayate • Search for Andean condors, Day 10: Cafayate - Wine Experience Departure Dates & Prices flamingos, caracara, guanacos, Day 11: Las Flechas Gorge, Town of Mar 02 - Mar 23, 2021 - $7995 USD vicunas, foxes and wildlife of the Cachi Mar 03 - Mar 24, 2022 - $7995 USD altiplano Day 12: Town of Cachi Comfort Level Day 13: Cachi, Los Cardones National Park, Salta 5 days over 9,000 ft. Some rough/dusty, winding roads and long drives. Day 14: Humahuaca Gorge, Purmamarca Accommodations Day 15: The Indigenous Villages of the Comfortable hotels/lodges with private North bathrooms. Day 16: Traversing the Andes Day 17: The Atacama Desert, Moon Extensions Valley Easter Island 5 land days: Visit this Day 18: The Atacama Desert, Tatio isolated volcanic island known for the Geysers large sculpted heads found throughout Day 19: Bolivia: Mud Pools and the the island. Start and finish in Hanga Roa. Flamingos of Laguna Colorada Price: from $1395 USD Day 20: Puritama Hot Springs (based on double$1395 occupancy) USD Day 21: Drive to Calama, Fly to Iguazu Falls See page 99 Santiago Peru - Cultural Journey - Lodge to Day 22: Depart Santiago Lodge to Machu Picchu See page 94 Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 103 Wild Brazil

New itinerary includes the world’s premier jaguar viewing region in Brazil’s Pantanal

Hear the thunder of Iguazu Falls and enjoy Argentinian side. In the Pantanal, we search a NEW unique opportunity to see the elusive for wildlife by day and rest comfortably in an jaguar in the wild! Travel to the Pantanal, one ecolodge by night. of the richest biological zones on Earth. Visit The Amazon Basin is a river-sea and vast cultural Sao Paulo, and explore the crystal forest covering over half of Brazil. The region is blue waters of Nobres. Cruise along the one of the Earth’s greatest natural masterpieces gentle tributaries of the Amazon and finish and features 50,000 miles of navigable the journey in Rio, one of the world’s most waterways, the Earth’s largest forest and over beautiful cities. 15,000 animal species. Changing scene from Our journey starts at arguably the most Brazil’s natural wonders, we move to the urban beautiful waterfalls in the world, Iguazu Falls, highlights of Rio de Janeiro to explore one of with a panoramic view from the Brazilian the world’s most exciting and vibrant cities. side and an up-close, misty look from the

104 MANAUS

AMAZON

Activity Level: 2 Daily Itinerary amazon region Day 1: Arrival Iguazu Falls, Fact File Brazil savannah region • 16 land days Day 2: Iguazu Falls - (nobres) • Maximum 16 travelers Argentine Side cuiabá BRAZIL • Start in Iguazu and finish in Rio Day 3: Iguazu Falls - • All meals included Brazilian Side, Three Borders porto • Includes 3 internal flights Landmark, Fly to Sao Paulo pantanal jofre Day 4: Fly to Cuiabá, to region Highlights rio de Amazon Region iguazu janeiro • Enjoy boat safaris in search of Day 5: Exploring the falls jaguars Amazon sao paulo • Visit Iguazu Falls from Brazilian and Day 6: Amazon Argentinian sides Day 7: From Amazon to Santa Teresa, Morrinho Project • Swim, snorkle and relax at the Savannah Day 16: Depart Rio de Janeiro crystal blue waters of Nobres Day 8: Crystalline Blue Pools & • View incredible wildlife during Waterfalls of Nobres Departure Dates & Prices Day 9: To Pantanal Region Pantanal safaris Sep 16 - Oct 01, 2021 - $8995 USD • Explore the diverse flora and fauna Day 10: Pantanal Wildlife Safaris by of the Amazon Jeep & Canoe Comfort Level Day 11: To Porto Jofre, Jaguar Safari by • Enjoy the sites of Rio de Janeiro Some rough roads and long travel days. Boat Day 12: Jaguar Safaris Accommodations Day 13: To Rio de Janeiro Comfortable hotels and lodges with private Day 14: Rio - One of the World’s Most bathrooms. (The lodge on Day 4, 5, 6 has Beautiful Cities limited number of rooms. Singles may have Day 15: Rio de Janeiro - Corcovado, to share depending on group size.)

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Exploratory Trip

Journey to 3 of South America’s lesser a myriad of exotic, colorful birds and if you are known travel gems - Guyana, Suriname and lucky, the elusive jaguar! French Guiana, collectively known as the Our urban and historic exploration includes Guianas. 90 percent of their territory remains Georgetown and Paramaribo (UNESCO), the as undeveloped, mostly unexplored jungle! Space Center (European satellite launch site), Be mesmerized by the pristine beauty of Camp de la Transportation (slave transit camp) Kaieteur Falls (226m or 741ft - 4 times higher and a catamaran journey to Devil’s Island than Niagara), the world’s largest single drop (overnight on Île Royale). This eclectic, exotic waterfall! Journey by motorized longboats off-the-beaten path journey is sure to enthrall to lodges deep in the jungle, meeting local and captivate even the well-seasoned adventure indigenous villagers and searching for wildlife traveler! including giant otters, giant anteaters, sea turtles, pink river dolphins, monkeys, caiman,

106 Activity Level: 2/3 Day 5: Île Royale and Île Saint-Joseph Fact File Day 6: To Suriname, • 20 land days Danpaati River • Maximum 16 travelers Day 7: Pikin Slee Village, • Start in Paramaribo, Suriname and Rainforest Walk finish in Georgetown, Guyana Day 8: Frederiksdorp • All meals included Plantation • Includes 4 internal flights Day 9: Kronenburg and /HWKHP Highlights Marienbosch Plantations • French Guiana - catamaran trip to Day 10: Peperpot the 3 Salvation Islands Plantation, Fort Nieuw • History of Frederiksdorp and sur- Amsterdam, Paramaribo rounding plantations - Suriname Day 11: Flight to Kaieteur • Overnight at Kaieteur Falls Waterfalls Departure Dates & Prices • Suspension bridges at Iwokrama Day 12: Flight to Apoteri , Rupununi Canopy Walkway River, Rewa River Community Feb 10 - Mar 01, 2021 - $9995 USD Mar 04 - Mar 23, 2021 - $9995 USD • Incredible bird and wildlife spotting Exploring Rewa River Day 13: Mar 02 - Mar 21, 2022 - $9995 USD on boat journeys Day 14: Iwokrama Canopy Walkway • Search for a myriad of exotic bird Day 15: Bird Watching and Wildlife at Comfort Level life, caiman, giant otters, giant ant- Iwokrama Canopy Walkway Some rough roads and long travel days. eaters, monkeys and even the elusive Day 16: Caiman House Field Station jaguar Day 17: Rupununi River to Karanambu Accommodations Daily Itinerary Wetlands and Savannah Mostly comfortable hotels and lodges Day 1: Arrival in Suriname Day 18: Exploring Karanambu Birds and with private facilities, 1 night very basic Day 2: To French Guiana, Saint Wildlife accommodation and 3 nights with shared Laurent Du Maroni Day 19: Karanambu to Georgetown facilities. Day 3: Guiana Space Center Day 20: Depart Georgetown Day 4: Salvation Islands

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This natural history sailing trip explores the Gwaii spectacular adventure you will have the opportunity to Haanas National Park Reserve, in the southern islands visit sacred sites, feel the solitude of the wilderness, and of Haida Gwaii. These islands form a unique archipelago experience the wildlife and Haida culture. situated (50 miles/80 kilometers) west of Prince Rupert on British Columbia’s northwest coast. Often referred to as The SV Island Solitude Canada’s own ‘Galapagos’, the islands of Haida Gwaii have The SV Island Solitude is a brand new, custom 82-foot a unique vegetation, wildlife and cultural history that has ketch, launched in 2017. evolved in relative isolation over the last several thousand years. The boat’s design, safety and comfort make it Evidence suggests that parts of the islands remained particularly well-suited for providing wildlife and wilderness unglaciated during the last 10,000 years, offering refuge trips for 12-14 guests. It features 8 private cabins (double for animals and plants. The area is geologically active and occupancy), 6 larger upper cabins and 2 lower berths - each has seen massive fluctuations in sea level. The islands are with their own ensuite bathroom - a large comfortable the epicenter of Haida culture and SGang Gwaay has been lounge with an extensive library, and a well-equipped galley. honored with a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During this

108 Exploring the Islands of Haida Gwaii by sailboat

Activity Level: 2 Day 9: Bischoff Islands, Darwin Sound Day 10: Return to Sandspit Fact File Skidegate • 9 or 10 days (8 sailing days) Departure Dates & moresby • Maximum 12 travelers Prices camp • Start & finish in Sandspit * May 15 - May 24, 2021 * May 23 - Jun 01, 2021 • All meals on board included * May 31 - Jun 09, 2021 burnaby * Jun 08 - Jun 17, 2021 narrows * Jun 16 - Jun 25, 2021 Highlights † Jun 25 - Jul 03, 2021 † Jul 02 - Jul 10, 2021 • Visit SGang Gwaay - world’s best † Jul 09 - Jul 17, 2021 standing collection of original totem † Jul 16 - Jul 24, 2021 burnaby † Jul 24 - Aug 01, 2021 narrows poles † Jul 31 - Aug 08, 2021 † Aug 7 - Aug 15, 2021 • Visit Hotspring Island- relax in the warm pools † Aug 14 - Aug 22, 2021 • Discover Haida culture and history * 10 day itinerary - $8250 CAD Totems of • Go whale watching and wildlife † 9 day itinerary - $7450 CAD viewing SGang Gwaay Please call for USD price. (Ninstints) Daily Itinerary Based on twin share accommodation. Plus $100 CAD Sustainability Fee. Day 1: Arrive in Sandspit Accommodations Plus 13% HST (Sales Tax). Price Day 2: Haida Heritage Center, Board Aboard the SV Island Solitude. Cabins are small the Yacht includes the park entry fee. but comfortable, with ensuite bathroom facilities Day 3: Depart Moresby Camp Not exclusive to ElderTreks, other The first night is spent in Sandspit. Day 4: Sailing in the Queen Charlotte international passengers may be Islands - Tanu, Lyell Island onboard. Day 5: Juan Perez Sound Day 6: Burnaby Narrows Comfort Level Day 7: Ninstints, a UNESCO World Sea can be rough. Zodiac landings Heritage Site required. Day 8: Ikeda Cove, Hotspring Island

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View from the lodge

Imagine hiking in a pristine area surrounded by stunning and encounter no one else, as you are simply that remote, making it almost surreal landscapes in the Canadian Rockies. Your accommodation is in impossible for anyone to get to the places our helicopter takes us to. comfortable lodges. Your guides are fully certified, professional mountain A typical day of heli-hiking: After a great sleep and hearty breakfast, guides with years of training and experience. YOU choose how rigorous our helicopter delivers us to one of several possible starting points. We set or how relaxing your day will be. And the final touch...you are delivered out hiking and exploring, always at a comfortable pace, with long or short, and picked up from this magical wilderness by helicopter. The scenery, the strenuous or leisurely hikes to choose from. Our guests, not our guides, service, the experience does not get any better. Welcome to heli-hiking. set the pace. Our guides are in constant communication with the lodge’s We are offering a superb 7-day heli-hiking journey in the Columbia helicopter, so we may take two or three different hikes during the day. Our Mountain Range. Located on the western side of the great swash of golden rule is flexibility and adaptability. the Rocky Mountain Trench, the Columbia’s are technically not part of Each day we immerse ourselves into different terrains, which could the Rockies, but run parallel to it and are a stunning and little-known include being dropped in a meadow beneath a stupendous glacial cirque for collection of peaks and ranges. a morning hike followed by a picnic lunch. With the help of our helicopter, Older than the Rockies by a couple of hundred million years, we begin our traverse around a cobalt lake, all the time soaking in the comparable to them in height and fully their equal in majesty, the mountain beauty and solitude. In the late afternoon, we fly back to the Columbia Range attracts only a tiny fraction of the Rockies visitors. lodge for a massage, an outdoor hot tub soak or a sauna, a well earned, Why? A simple reason: it’s very hard to get to. Only the most inspired, beautifully prepared dinner, and some story swapping while sipping wine experienced and stubborn backpackers are able to bushwhack their way to by the fireplace in our comfortable lodge. the dazzling heights, which we attain with ease, thanks to our helicopters. We hope you can join us and enjoy the magic that is heli-hiking. No trails, no campgrounds, no pre-packaged view spots. Expect to

110 JHUHKH Choose the hikes which match your ability, from easy to challenging.

Activity Level: 1 - 5 YVJR` Flexible. You choose your activity level. TV\U[HPUZ HSILY[H SHRL Facts & Highlights JVS\TIPH IVIIPL SV\PZL TV\U[HPUZ I\YUZ • 7 land days SVKNL IHUMM • Start and finish in Banff, Alberta • All meals included IVIIPLI\YUZ • Includes shuttle from Banff to YHUNL JHSNHY` helipad and helicopter flight to/from I\NHIVV lodges SVKNL • Hike in pristine, remote wilderness IYP[PZO I\NHIVV • Helicopter flights to/from lodges to JVS\TIPH YHUNL hiking areas • Tailor your own hikes - easy or hard, long or short Departure Dates & Prices Dates are not exclusive to ElderTreks. Jun 30 - Jul 06, 2021^HZOPUN[VU Based on twin share accommodation. Daily Itinerary Jul 03 - Jul 09, 2021 Please call for USD pricing. Plus 13% sales tax (HST) Day 1: Depart from Banff by bus Jul 06 - Jul 12, 2021 to helipad; helicopter flight to your Jul 09 - Jul 15, 2021 Mandatory pre-night in Banff. Please lodge in the Bobbie Burns range; Jul 12 - Jul 18, 2021 consult a trip specialist to book. afternoon helicopter and hike Jul 15 - Jul 21, 2021 Comfort Level Jul 18 - Jul 24, 2021 Days 2-3: Full days of heli-hiking; Terrain varies depending on hikes Jul 24 - Jul 30, 2021 exploring the Bobbie Burns range chosen by you. Day 4: Fly to Grizzly Ridge and Trek Jul 30 - Aug 05, 2021 to the Bugaboo Lodge Aug 05 - Aug 11, 2021 Accommodations Aug 11 - Aug 17, 2021 Days 5-6: Heli-hiking; Exploring 2 comfortable lodges in the mountains, all Aug 17 - Aug 23, 2021 the Bugaboos rooms with private bathrooms. Day 7: Depart by helicopter to the helipad; bus to Banff or Calgary airport 2020 Price: $7155 CAD

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labrador l’anse aux meadows Daily Itinerary This summer sailing is ideally timed for viewing Day 1: St. John’s, Newfoundland red conche whales, icebergs, and breeding seabirds. At Gros bay Days 2-3: Northeast Coast Morne, the planet’s mantle frames fjords that Day 4: L’Anse Aux Meadows would be at home in Norway; on the Avalon Penin- trinity bay Day 5: Red Bay sula, a chunk of what was once Africa meets rem- gros newfoundland nants of the Appalachian Mountains. We will visit morne Day 6: Woody Point / Gros Morne NP st. john’s Red Bay UNESCO World Heritage Site, learn about miawpukek National Park the Viking history in North America at L’Anse aux Days 7-8: South Coast Meadows, and enjoy a taste of the Mi’kmaq culture Day 9: Miawpukek (Conne River) in Conne River. south st. pierre, Saint-Pierre, FR coast Day 10: Day 11: St. John’s, Newfoundland Starting and ending in historic St. John’s, we expe- Activity Level: 1 Departure Dates & prices rience Newfoundland’s lively culture and dramatic Ocean Endeavour scenery in daily expedition stops. A visit to the Fact File French island of Saint-Pierre completes the adven- Oct 1 - Oct 11, 2021 • 11 Days ture. The welcome we receive in Newfoundland’s Triple Cabin from - $5595 USD • Start and finish in St. John’s outport communities is warm and genuine; the Interior Twin from - $6995 USD • All meals on board included music and stories unforgettable. Experience the Exterior Twin from - $8295 USD • Travel aboard the Ocean Endeavour province’s legendary music, food, and hospitality Main Twin from - $9595 USD the way it was meant to be experienced—by sea. Highlights Comfort Twin from - $10895 USD • Explore the phenomenal landscapes of Call for complete prices. Gros Morne National Park COMFORT LEVEL Seas can be • Share the warmth of a classic rough. Wet and dry zodiac landings Newfoundland ‘kitchen party’ required. • Hear traditional stories and songs from Accommodations our talented leaders Refer to pg. 141 for ship amenities. • Learn about Mi’kmaq culture in Miawpukek • Get a taste of Europe on the island of Saint-Pierre, France

Puffin

Gros Morne

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Breathe the fresh air of coniferous woods in the Dracula’s Castle. After exploring the magnificent painted country of Count Dracula, hike in the Carpathian monasteries of Bucovina, we are heading to the remote Mountains, sample the famous wines of Hungary and of Western Romania to discover gaze upon magnificent frescoes. Our trip to Hungary local traditions, cuisine and medieval castles. and Romania is an artful blend of culture, exquisite scenery, history and activity. We continue to Czernowitz, the former capital of Ukraine, before making our way into Hungary to see the Our adventure in Transylvania begins in , Puszta in Hortobagy National Park, a UNESCO World the capital of Romania. Onward through Transylvania, Heritage Site and conclude our adventure in the famed into the , we encounter ancient city of Budapest and the Danube Bend, the Pearl of the pockets of European culture and sample the region’s Danube. Widely regarded as one of the world’s most cuisine while sipping local wines in the ambience of beautiful cities, Budapest is a city of spas, 2,000 year-old a medieval castle. See the magnificent fortress-town Roman amphitheaters, 400-year-old Turkish baths and of Sighisoara and walk through the grand square of 23 museums and galleries, all situated on the graceful Brasov. A true highlight is Bran Castle, a fortress atop a Danube. dramatic rock outcrop and more commonly known as

114 Includes Bran’s ‘Dracula’ Castle

Activity Level 3 Daily u k r a i n e chernivtsi Fact File Itinerary budapest hortobagy painted • 20 land days Day 1: Arrive Bucharest monasteries • Maximum 14 travelers Day 2: Bucharest godollo oradea Exploring • Start in Bucharest, Romania, finish torda mt. Day 3: To Brasov via hungary gorge hargita in Budapest, Hungary Sinaia and Bran Castle • All meals included coltesti odorheiu Day 4: Brasov sighisoara secuiesc Sightseeing, Risnov viscri prejmer Highlights bran brasov Day 5: Prejmar, Viscri, castle • Explore Bucharest highlights Stork Village r o m a n i a sinaia • Visit the painted monasteries of Day 6: Biertan, Bucovina Sighisoara bucharest • See ancient fortified Saxon towns Day 7: Mt. Hargita • Visit Moc and Secler villages Hikes, Secler Gates and • Hike through one of the last great Enlaka Village Departure Dates & Prices wilderness of Europe Day 8: Charcoal Makers, Praid Salt May 17 - Jun 05, 2021 - $5495 USD Black • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites Mine, to Bucovina via Gorge and May 23 - Jun 11, 2022 - $5495 USD Sea • Visit Budapest’s Parliament, Buda Lacu Rosu Castle (UNESCO) and the Royal Pal- Day 9: Painted Monasteries of ace of Visegrad Bucovina: Gura Humorului, Sucevita, Comfort Level • Visit the former capital of Ukraine, Moldovita, Egg Museum Some long drives. Czernowitz Day 10: Ukraine - Czernowitz (Chernivtsi) Accommodations Day 11: Painted Monasteries of Bucovina: Voronet, Arbore, Suceava Comfortable accommodations with private Day 12: To Torockoszentgyorgy bathrooms. Through the Eastern Carpathians (Borgo Pass) and the Transylvanian Basin Day 13: Rimetea Village Museum, Torockoszentgyorgy Castle Hike Day 14: Torda Gorge Hike, Tara Motilor (Posaga de Sus) Day 15: Sincrau Village, Oradea, Arrival in Hungary Day 16: Hortobagy N.P., Godollo Royal Palace, to Budapest Day 17: Budapest Sightseeing - Buda Highlights Day 18: Budapest Sightseeing - Pest Highlights Day 19: Danube Bend: Visegrad, Szentendre Day 20: Depart Budapest

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Prague

Eastern Europe is a fascinating place with great history Take a guided visit in a world-renowned Renaissance and culture, lovely little medieval towns, picturesque palace in Litomysl, admire a set of public fountains and the landscapes and hospitable people. On our adventure, we see huge Trinity Column in Olomouc, wander among ancient the best of three old European countries: the Czech Republic, picturesque houses with thatched roofs in the open-air- Slovakia and Poland; including 8 prominent UNESCO Sites museum in Roznov, and hike in the grandeur of the Slovak boasting riches of cultural heritage and well-preserved mountain scenery architectural monuments. There are, however, many hidden gems in this region yet to be discovered by crowds of The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Krakow is Poland’s tourists, and it is this variety that makes our adventure so historical capital. Walk through the Old Town and the special. famous Royal Wawel Castle, the home of Poland’s monarchy for centuries. Explore an optional day trip to the fascinating Immerse yourself in Prague and Krakow, two jewels Wielizka Salt Mines, and the profound experience of among cities, and indulge in the captivating beauty of rock Auschwitz. formations and deep gorges in Prachov. Climb to the ruins of the impressive Trosky Castle, proudly perched atop a Highlights of our Prague to Krakow adventure are volcanic monolith, and inspect ingenious historical military impressively blended with a series of nine hikes through structures in Dobrosov. stunning, undulating landscapes rich in floral scenery and rural villages. Our active adventure ends in Krakow.

116 germany Spissky Castle

Activity Level 2 jicin poland Fact File nove mesto rychnov krakow • 15 land days prague auschwitz litomysl wieliczka • Maximum 16 travelers salt mines • Start in Prague, Czech Republic and finish in Krakow, Poland czech olomouc • All meals included republic roznov pieniny terchova n.p. Highlights slovakia levoca • Explore the countries of the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland Day 6: Eagle Mountains Hike, WWII • Visit 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Daily Itinerary austria Military Stronghold in Dobrosov • 9 nature hikes, including Bohemian Day 1: Arrive in Prague, Czech Republic Day 7: UNESCO Towns of Litomysl and Paradise, the Giant Mountains, Eagle Day 2: Prague - Castle, Charles Bridge, Olomouc Mountains (Czech Republic); Orava Astronomical Clock, Old Town hungary and High Tatra Mountains (Slovakia) Day 3: St. Nicolas Church, Jewish Day 8: Wallachian Open-Air Museum, Hike to Radhost, to Slovakia • See Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance, Art Quarter, Lunch Cruise, to Jicin Nouveau and folk architecture Day 4: Bohemian Paradise - Prachov Day 9: Hiking in the Orava Mountains, Rocks and Trosky Castle Orava Castle Day 5: Foothills of Giant Mountains, Day 10: The High Tatras Mountains, Allegorical Statues of Kuks UNESCO Town of Levoca Day 11: Zehra to Spissky Castle Krakow Day 12: Dunajec River Ride, to Krakow, Poland Day 13: Auschwitz Day 14: Krakow Sightseeing, Royal Wawel Castle and Wieliczka Salt Mine Day 15: Depart Krakow Departure Dates & Prices May 24 - Jun 07, 2021 - $5995 USD

Comfort Level There are 9 hikes, some inclines but no significant elevation gain. Trail surfaces can be uneven and rocky. Accommodations Comfortable hotels with private bathroom facilities.

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Journey to remote villages and mountains in a Mines (UNESCO), a Carpathian horse farm, nature classic hiking trip, starting in the old Polish capital parks, castles, war memorials, opera house/ballet, of Krakow. Ancient capitals, rural villages, stunning schools and the world’s largest Jewish cemetery mountain ranges, lakes and rivers, museums, and much more UNESCO churches and monasteries are some of We have the opportunity to visit Chernobyl, the highlights you will encounter on this 17 day where we can learn more about the events of 1986 adventure to Poland, Slovakia and Ukraine. in a safe and informative setting. One of the highlights of your journey will be Our Carpathian’s experience includes a fast train the welcoming smiles of villagers as we stop in for from (UNESCO) with its medieval town, to lunch at a local home on one of our walks. Our Kiev, Ukraine’s capital, steeped in 1,500 years of hikes and travels take us off the beaten path where history. our local encounters are genuine and spontaneous. We visit Oskar Schindler’s factory, Wieliczka Salt

118 germanyActivity Level: 3/4 Fact File chernobyl • 17 land days kiev • Maximum 16 travelers poland lviv • Start in Krakow, Poland and finish krakow in Kiev, Ukraine ukraine

Highlights wysowa dukla • Visit medieval Krakow, Lviv Bardejoy bardejov uzok (all UNESCO) and Kiev slovakia pylipets • Encounter friendly villagers & remote uzghorod mizheria wilderness on 7 hikes in the remote austria Carpathian mountains • Find remnants of the Soviet Era Day 8: Ukrainian Carpathian Scenic including the architecture, cars & a Hike & Villages Soviet ‘scenic train’ journey. Day 9: Synevyr Pass • Visit Chernobyl’s abandoned villages/ Day 10: Synevyr Polana Hike to cities overgrown with forests, reactor Kolochava Village & Farm House Visit #4 (meltdown site), to top secret Day 11: Synevyr Pass Hike, Soviet radar sites, the pinnacle of Soviet Spy City of Mizhiria technology and defence. Day 12: To Lviv, Opera or Symphony Day 13: Lviv (UNESCO) • Explore Dukla Pass with WWII tanks Day 14: Train to Kiev scattered over rural farms. Day 15: Chernobyl • Visit Oskar Schindler’s factory Day 16: Explore Kiev • Wieliczka Salt Mines (UNESCO) Day 17: Depart Kiev Daily Itinerary Departure Dates & Prices Day 1: Arrive in Krakow, Poland Sep 08 - Sep 24, 2021 - $6695 USD Day 2: Krakow Sightseeing Comfort Level Day 3: Salt Mines of Wieliczka, WW1 Cemetery, Rural Hike Several long walks. Day 4: Hucul Horses, Carriage Accommodations Ride, Forest Hike into Slovakia, Comfortable hotels with private Medieval Bardejov (UNESCO), washrooms. Please note: some remote Return to Poland hotels/lodges in Western Ukraine/ Day 5: To Uzok, Ukraine via Carpthians are not accustomed to Slovakia’s Dukla Pass Westerners. They speak limited Day 6: Uzgorod English but accommodations are clean, Day 7: Uzhok Pass Hike, Scenic comfortable and charming. Soviet Train Ride

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 119 St. Petersburg & The Baltics Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia & Russia

Three neighboring countries - Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia capital Riga (UNESCO) - once the trading center of the Hanseatic - known as the Baltics, share a common history and seacoast League - filled with medieval buildings and Art Nouveau but are all unique. All three Baltic capitals have UNESCO architecture; to the medieval castles of Turaida and Sigulda in designations. We also explore Russia’s most impressive and Gauja National Park; to small historic villages. In southern Latvia, historic city, St. Petersburg. we visit Rundale Palace to see one of the most beautiful examples Baltic highlights include Lithuania’s castle on an island, of Baroque architecture in the Baltics - the palace was built in the Latvia’s guild houses, Estonia’s well-preserved medieval Old 18th century as a summer residence for a Duke of Courland and Town, sand dunes on the Curonian Spit, national parks, and has a beautiful French garden. Estonian islands in the Baltic Sea are just a sample of what to In Estonia, we visit the Islands of Saaremaa and Muhu, with expect on our Baltic adventure. their medieval villages and coastal towns. We visit the capital of In the 14th century, Lithuania was the largest country in Tallinn (UNESCO) with its well-preserved medieval Old Town as Europe. Medieval castles are evidence of its glorious yet turbulent well as many medieval castles throughout the country. We visit past. We begin our adventure in its capital and largest city, Narva castle, situated directly across the river to the Russian Vilnius (UNESCO). Other stops include the old capitals of Trakai fortress at Ivangorod. and Kaunas. We visit the unique and sacred Hill of Crosses before We continue our tour with 4 nights in beautiful St. exploring the Curonian Spit (UNESCO), a site full of picturesque Petersburg, Russia where we will take in the history of the Peter sand dunes, fishermen’s villages and long beaches. and Paul Fortress, visit both the famed Hermitage and Faberge Latvia is a country of many contrasts; from the 13th century Museums, and enjoy the opulence of both the Peterhof and Catherine Palaces.

120 Activity Level: 2 Day 8: To Riga Z[WL[LYZI\YN (Latvia) via Liepaja SHOLTHHUW Fact File and Kuldiga [HSSPUU • 21 land days Day 9: Baroque UHY]H • Maximum 16 travelers Rundale Palace LZ[VUPH Y\ZZPH *VSVTIPH OHHWZHS\ • Start in Vilnius, Lithuania and Day 10: Exploring ]PY[Z\ finish in St. Petersburg, Russia7VWH`HU the Old Town of WpYU\ Riga • All meals included R\YLZZHHYL Highlights Day 11: Gauja National Park, • The Old Town of Vilnius Medieval Cesis (UNESCO) JLZPZ Day 12: To Saaremaa • Grand Duchy of Lithuania R\SKPNH Island (Estonia), YPNH residence and capital Trakai Muhu Island IH\ZRH • Kernave archeological site SPLWHQH SH[]PH Day 13: Sites of (UNESCO) WHSHUNH Saaremaa Island • Soviet history in Grūtas Park RSHPWLKH SP[O\HUPH Day 14: To Tallinn • Hill of Crosses & Curonian UPKH Day 15: Tallinn Lagoon RLYUH]L • Boat ride in the Curonian Lagoon Sites and Midsummer’s Eve RH\UHZ • Art nouveau architecture of Riga ]PSUP\Z (UNESCO) Day 16: Lahemaa KY\ZRPUPURHP • Sigulda, Turaida and Cesis Castles National Park in Gauja National Park Day 17: Narva • Medieval market in Tallinn’s Old Castle, to St. Town (UNESCO) Petersburg • Peterhof (UNESCO), Catherine Day 18: Peterhof Palace, Catherine Palace Palace, Peter & Paul Fortress of St. Day 19: Peter and Paul Fortress, Faberge Petersburg Museum • St. Petersburg’s Hermitage and Day 20: Hermitage Museum, afternoon at Faberge Museums leisure Daily Itinerary Day 21: Depart St. Petersburg Day 1: Arrive in Vilnius, Lithuania Departure Dates & Price Day 2: Old Town of Vilnius, Uzupis Jun 09 - Jun 29, 2021 - $7995 USD Art District and Trakai Jul 03 - Jul 23, 2021 - $7995 USD Day 3: Ancient Capital of Kernave, Jun 09 - Jun 29, 2022 - $7995 USD KGB Museum Day 4: Soviet Statues of Grūtas Comfort Level Park Some long drives. Day 5: To Klaipėda via Rumšiškes, Kaunas & Hill of Crosses Accommodations Day 6: Klaipėda and Palanga Comfortable hotels with private bathroom Day 7: To Curonian Spit, Hill of facilities. Witches, Nida, Juodkrantė

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Exploratory Trip

Explore one of Europe’s least visited countries, Enjoy Sparrow Hills with a view over , Leo Belarus! Enjoy the wide boulevards lined with classic Tolstoy’s estate, Tretyakov Gallery (which houses the Stalinist architecture. Visit traditional villages, stopping best collection of Russian art), and a Moskva River at a babushka’s home. We visit the medieval castles of cruise. Visit the Russian Space Program, even chatting Nesvizh and Mir (overnight), as well as Brest Fortress with cosmonauts. Enjoy the Bolshoi Ballet, including a (UNESCO), Khatyn Memorial, and Strochitsy Museum. backstage experience! We will enjoy the local flavors at the famous Azyartso We depart for our Golden Ring excursion, stopping Cuisine restaurant, and visit the Great War and Stalin Line at Sergiev Posad, whose monastery is one of the most Museums, where you can even enjoy a tank ride! beautiful in Russia, and one of the principle spiritual Flying to St. Petersburg, Russia, we explore one of the centers of the Russian Church. We continue to Vladimir world’s most beautiful cities by foot, bus and canal. Enjoy before our final stop in Suzdal, with its countless Peter & Paul Fortress, the Faberge Museum, Catherine monasteries, cathedrals, well-preserved historic wooden Palace, Peterhof Palace with its superb gardens and homes and its undeniable charm. This is truly a beautiful, fountains, and the world-renowned Hermitage Museum. traditional part of old Russia! We take a fast train to Moscow, a city steeped in political We return to Moscow for our farewell dinner and mystery and intrigue! Visit Red Square, the Kremlin and overnight in the beautiful, fully-renovated, Ukraine hotel Armoury, Stalin’s bunker, a nuclear bunker, as well as New - one of Stalin’s architectural gems known as the “Seven Maiden Convent and Cemetery. Sisters”. Enjoy the views over Moscow, one of the world’s most colorful and vibrant cities!

122 Activity Level: 2 WL[LYOVMWHSHJL Z[WL[LYZI\YN Day 13: Moscow Sites Fact File LZ[VUPH Continued - Tolstoy • 19 land days Museum, Convent, • Maximum 16 travelers Sparrow Hills, Tretyakov • Start in Minsk, Belarus and finish in Gallery ZLYNPL]WVZHK SH[]PH Z\aKHS Moscow, Russia Day 14: Cold War Nuclear Bunker & • All meals included SP[O\HUPH ]SHKPTPY Moskva River Cruise TVZJV^ • Includes 1 internal flight Y\ZZPH Day 15: Russian Space Z[HSPUSPUL ROH[`U Highlights Program & Bolshoi • Visit an open-air military Ballet With Backstage TPUZR WVSHUK TPY museum in Minsk Experience ILSHY\Z ULZ]PaO • Enjoy Nesvizh (UNESCO) and Brest Day 16: The Golden IYLZ[ Fortress (UNESCO) Ring, Sergiev Posad, • Overnight in Mir Castle Vladimir, to Suzdal • St. Petersburg - Visit Peter & Paul Day 17: Vladimir Fortress, Catherine Palace, and Day 18: Return to Moscow, Farewell Peterhof Palace Dinner • Hermitage and Faberge Museums Day 19: Depart Moscow • Moscow - Red Square, Kremlin, Armoury and Moskva River cruise, Departure Dates & Price Stalin’s bunker, Cold War bunker • Russian Space Program, Bolshoi Ballet Sep 14 - Oct 02, 2021 - $8695 USD & Backstage Experience Comfort Level • Enjoy medieval towns, monasteries, Some long drives. and cathedrals of the Gold Ring Daily Itinerary Accommodations Day 1: Arrive Minsk, Belarus Comfortable hotels with private bathroom Day 2: Minsk City Tour, Stalin Line facilities. (opportunity to ride a WWII tank) Day 3: Khatyn Memorial, Azyartso Cuisine & Strochitsy Museum Day 4: To Nesvizh Castle Day 5: Brest Fortress (UNESCO), Traditional Village, to Mir Castle Day 6: Mir Castle, Fly to St. Petersburg Day 7: Peter & Paul Fortress, Faberge Museum Day 8: Peterhof Palace Day 9: Catherine Palace Day 10: Hermitage Museum and Canal Tour Day 11: Train to Moscow Day 12: Moscow Sites - Kremlin, Red Square, Cathedral, Armoury, Cooking Lesson

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 123 Adriatic Adventure Slovenia, Croatia, Italy, Bosnia & Montenegro

Journey to one of the most diverse regions of Europe If you are a nature lover the diversity of the parks we - Croatia and Slovenia. Our adventure begins in Dubrovnik, visit will surely fascinate you, including the world-famous Croatia. We will visit seaside towns with roots from the Middle Plitvice and Krka National Parks, with their impressive falls. Ages, and even as far back as Roman times. Relive history Breathe the fresh mountain air of the Slovenian Alps and take during the walk along the medieval walls of Dubrovnik, a in the unforgettable blue color of the Adriatic Sea. fascinating and fabled city also known as the “Pearl of the Explore three fantastic caves, Knizna, Postojna, and Adriatic”, and enjoy the culture, cuisine and hospitality of the Skocjan (UNESCO), with fascinating animals, stalactites, locals. stalagmites, including unique and giant underground rivers Our trip to the Adriatic Coast, Bosnia and Montenegro and lakes. is a relaxing blend of walks and hikes to natural wonders Across the top of the Adriatic we sample two of Italy’s and historic sites. Journey with us to the least crowded, and gems - Trieste and Venice. perhaps the most impressive, seacoasts of Europe.

124 Day 4: Hike on Lokrum Island, julian Activity Level: 3/4 alps slovenia bohinj Trsteno Plane Trees, Ston Italy lake Fact File Day 5: Sarajevo ljubljana postojna • 21 land days Day 6: Bosnia: Mostar Sightseeing, Trieste skocjan Blagaj Monastery cave • Maximum 14 travelers Venice istria peninsula lovran croatia • Start in Dubrovnik, Croatia and Day 7: Croatia: Imotski Sinkholes, rovinj plitvice Split Sightseeing, Free Time in Trogir n. p. finish in Ljubljana, Slovenia pula • All meals included Day 8: Boat Cruise to Visovac Island, velebit Krka Falls, Torak Spring Mt. bosnia- herzegovina Highlights Day 9: Sibenik, Zadar zadar paklenica Day 10: Paklenica Gorges National gorges • Visit 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites krka • Explore 9 national parks Park Sarajevo Day 11: Plitvice Lakes National Park, sibenik trogir • Explore the fabled city of Dubrovnik split • Mostar Bridge and Kotor Bay Otocac Mills imotski • Sarajevo, Bosnia’s Capital City Day 12: Mt. Ucka Panorama, adriatic sea mostar Moscenice Village and Oil Mills • Enjoy a boat cruise on the Krka River ston • Visit the Roman Amphitheater in Pula Day 13: Istria Peninsula: Pula, Rovinj, Porec dubrovnik • St. Marks Square, Venice Day 14: Hum, Slovenia Border • Savor Italy’s Trieste & Venice kotor Crossing, Hrastovlje Church, Socerb • Explore Krizna, Postojna and Skocjan Caves montenegro Viewpoint to Trieste, Italy • Hike in Slovenian Alps Day 15: Venice, Italy Day 20: Lake Bled, Ljubljana Sightseeing Daily Itinerary Day 16: Trieste Sightseeing, Lipica Stud Farm Day 21: Departure Day 1: Arrive in Dubrovnik, Croatia Day 17: Skocjan Cave, Dormouse Museum, Day 2: Dubrovnik Sightseeing Sneznik Castle, Knizna Cave Departure Dates & Prices Day 3: Panoramic Drive Through Day 18: Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle Sep 28 - Oct 18, 2021 - $7295 USD Montenegro: Kotor, Kotor Fjord, Day 19: Hike Around Lake Bohinj, Mt.Vogel Oct 19 - Nov 08, 2021 - $7295 USD Cable Car and Savica Falls Budva Oct 04 - Oct 24, 2022 - $7295 USD

Comfort Level 4 days with long drives.

Accommodations Comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 125 Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria, kosovo & corfu

Welcome to Old Europe - remote, unexploited and century BC. In Ohrid, we visit its beautiful lake and unspoiled. With cobblestone streets, Roman ruins, famous monastery on its shores. cosmopolitan cities, quaint towns, medieval monasteries and castles, UNESCO sites and pristine nature. In Kosovo we visit Prizren, one of the loveliest towns in the Balkans dating back to the Turkish era. We then Bulgaria, Macedonia and Albania are easily some of continue to Albania, where we enjoy scenic drives to Europe’s last, mostly unexplored gems. We also visit magnificent Roman ruins, including the ancient cities of Kosovo, the youngest country of Europe, and Corfu Berat and Butrint. (Greece). Relax and savor the atmosphere on the beautiful Greek After exploring the 5,000 year old cosmopolitan capital island of Corfu on the Ionian Sea. city , with its wide boulevards and grand churches, we travel to the city of Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest Bulgaria, Macedonia, Kosovo and Albania offer the cities. Visit Asenovgrad Castle, a medieval fortress in the perfect off-the-beaten track adventure in seldom traveled Bulgarian Rhodope Mountains. Eastern Europe. In Macedonia, visit Heraclea, founded in the 4th

126 127 Activity Level: 2 ]HSIVUH :VMPH 7SV]KP] :ORVKYH RVZV]V Fact File WLQH YPSH • 22 land days WYPaYLU TVUHZ[LY` • Maximum 14 travelers ZRVWQL (ZLUV]NYHK • Start in Sofia, Bulgaria and finish THJLKVUPH I\SNHYPH in , Albania [PYHUH • All meals included K\YYLZ VOYPK IP[VSH Highlights (SIHUPH • Historic cities of Plovdiv, Ohrid, ILYH[ Berat and Shkodra HWVSSVUPH NYLLJL • Apolonia archaeological sites, NQPYVRHZ[YH Rozafa and Kruja Castles • Tirana including Mt. by cable car, and Mother Teresa’s Memorial JVYM\ ZHYHUKL NYLLJL I\[YPU[ statue of Skhodra ;<92,@ • Ottoman towns of Prizren and Day 10: Peja, Gjakova, Prizren Accommodations Gjirokastra Day 11: Prizren Sightseeing, to Albania Comfortable hotels with private • Corfu, Greece Day 12: Valbona National Park bathrooms. • Ancient cities of Heraclea and Day 13: Boating on Drini River, Shkodra Butrint (UNESCO) Sightseeing, Rozafa Castle • Lakes of Ohrid and Prespa Day 14: Memorial of Skanderbeg, Kruja, to [PUVZ • Gorgeous clear blue water of Blue Tirana PZSHUK Eye Springs Day 15: Tirana Sightseeing Day 16: Ardenica Monastery, Apollonia T`RVUVZ Daily Itinerary Ruinfields, Drive Along Llogara NP’s Coast to PZSHUK Day 1: Arrival in Sofia, Bulgaria Sarande 63@470( Day 2: Sofia Sightseeing Day 17: Ferry to Corfu (Greece), KLSVZ Paleokastritsa and Achellieon :(9650* PZSHUK Day 3: Rila Monastery 4@:;9(: :7(9;( .<3- Day 4: Plovdiv and Asenovgrad Day 18: Day in Corfu (Kerkyra) Castle Day 19: Butrint Ruinfields, Blue Eye Springs,2(9+(4@30 .@;/06 to Gjirokastra (UNESCO) UH_VZ Day 5: To Skopje, Macedonia Day 20: Ottoman Town of Gjirokastra, to THUP *(7,;(05(96 PZSHUK To Bitola, Ancient City of WLUPUZ\SH Day 6: Berat Heracles, to Ohrid Day 21: Berat Sightseeing, Durres, to Tirana Day 7: Kalista Cave Monastery, Day 22: Depart Tirana, Albania Vevcani Springs, Old Ohrid Sightseeing (Upper Town) Departure Dates & Prices Day 8: Old Ohrid Sightseeing (Lower Sep 04 – Sep 25, 2021 - $7395 USD Town), Galicia National Park and Sep 10 – Oct 01, 2022 - $7395 USD Lake Prespa Comfort Level Day 9: Mavrovo Monastery, Tetovo, Some long drives. Sar Planina National Park, to Prizren, Kosovo Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 127 Malta and Sicily

The largest island in the Mediterranean, years of history. Located in the heart of the Sicily’s incredible natural wonders, mild climate Mediterranean, the islands have three UNESCO and rich culture offers an unparalleled feast for World Heritage Sites, including the Baroque city the senses. The island beckons travelers with of Valletta, Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, and several lush mountains, simmering volcanoes, picture prehistoric Megalithic Temples. perfect seaside villages, and crystal colored Experience the untouched and rugged life on waters. Settled by diverse ancient civilizations the islands of Malta, where time seems to stand for over 3,000 years, this history is reflected still. The history, architecture, landscape, and in its architecture, cuisine, and treasured people connect past and present, making Malta archaeological sites. a rich cultural and historic destination for all Malta is truly one of Southern Europe’s who step foot on this magical Mediterranean travel gems, boasting an impressive 7,000 nation.

128 WHSLYTV gozo LYPJL inland ggigantija JOVX\LJHUJOH sea temples 7,9< JLMHS\ victoria */0*3(@6 TVUYLHSL T[L[UH comino SHYLZ :0*03@ JH[HUPH cirkewwa O\HJHO\HZP HNYPNLU[V THJO\ WPJJO\ ZPYHJ\ZH ZJPJSP TVKPJH VSSHU[H`[HTIVmalta sliema mosta valletta mdina SHTH` 30)@( hal saflieni HWVSSVUPH rabat THYHZ hypogeum hagar marsaxlokkWPZHX qim JOPUJOLYV blue 4(3;( grotto J\ZJV

Activity Level: 2/3 • Visit Valley of the Temples and Siracusa Day 5: Agrigento and Siracusa archaeological sites Day 6: Ortigia and Catania Fact File • Explore Mt Etna volcano Day 7: Mt Etna, Wine Tasting and • 14 days • Full day tour to the island of Gozo Taormina • Maximum 16 travelers • Walking tour of Mdina & Three Cities Day 8: Scicli, Modica, and Transfer to • Visit Marsaxlokk & Blue Grotto • Start in Palermo, Sicily and finish Malta in Valletta, Malta Day 9: Valletta, Three Cities • All meals included Daily Itinerary Day 10: Hagar Qim, Marsaxlokk, Blue Day 1: Welcome to Sicily Highlights Grotto Day 2: Walking Tour of Palermo Day 11: Mosta, Mdina, to Rabat • Explore colorful old towns of Day 3: Monreale Cathedral, Cefalu Day 12: Gozo Tour Valletta, Catania, and Ortigia Day 4: Erice, Selinunte, and Agrigento Day 13: Hal Saflieni Hypogeum Day 14: Depart Valletta Mt. Etna Departure Dates & Prices Apr 19 - May 02, 2021 - $5695 USD Oct 07 - Oct 20, 2021 - $5695 USD Apr 18 - May 01, 2022 - $5695 USD Sep 29 - Oct 12, 2022 - $5695 USD Comfort Level Uneven cobblestone streets and unpaved terrain at archaeological sites. Accommodations Comfortable hotels with private bathrooms.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 129 Ancient Greece

Journey into the realm of the gods - Athena, Apollo, oracle in exchange for great treasures. Drive through Hercules, Poseidon and the mighty Zeus. Bring the rural picturesque villages enroute to the impressive mythology and legends of ancient Greece to life in an 14th-century Meteora Monasteries, set in the canyons epic journey taking you from the impressive Parthenon of the Eastern Pindus Mountains. Ample opportunities in ’ Acropolis, to Olympia, the birthplace of the exist to meet many of the locals during our countryside Olympic games, to the stunning Greek islands. explorations. We visit a myriad of ancient sites including the No journey to Greece would be complete without a Parthenon, the Panathenaic Stadium and the Temple of visit to the Greek Isles with their relaxed atmosphere and Poseidon. Drive through the central Peloponnese, before turquoise waters. Exploration is on foot, truly the best way arriving in Olympia, where the games began in 776 BC. to connect with the land, the people and their history. The impressive Temple of Zeus was built here to honor the great god. Our epic journey to Greece concludes in Athens, as we bid farewell to a land of beautiful islands, ancient temples, Continue on to Delphi, the heart of the ancient friendly faces and a mythology that would even make the world, just as kings and warriors did, to consult with the gods smile.

130 4(*,+650(

(3)(50(

Activity Level: 3 TL[LVYH .9,,*, RHSHTIHRH ;<92,@ Fact File 705+\: • 17 land days 46<5;(05: • Maximum 16 travelers • Start and finish in Athens SHTPH • All meals included KLSWOP HYHJOV]H

Highlights .<3-6- *6905;/ H[OLUZ [PUVZPZ • 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites WH[YHZ • The Parthenon JVYPU[O T`RVUVZ • Journey to Cape Sounion PZ • The rugged beauty of the VS`TWPH KLSVZ Peloponnese PZ • Visit Olympia - the birthplace of :(9650* T`Z[YHZ .<3- the Olympic Games ZWHY[H • Explore the Byzantine RHYKHT`SP N`[OPV monasteries of the Eastern Pindus Mountains THUP JHWL[HPUHYV • Explore Tinos, Mykonos and WLUPUZ\SH Delos Day 13: Ferry to Mykonos Comfort Level • Athens Archaeological Museum Day 14: The Sacred Island of Delos - the For hiking enthusiasts. Terrain at ruin sites Daily Itinerary Temple of Apollo may be uneven and loose and slopes can Day 1: Arrive in Athens Day 15: Return Ferry to Athens be steep. Footing can be unstable on ferry crossings. Day 2: The Parthenon and Cape Day 16: Exploring Athens Sounion Day 17: Depart Athens Accommodations Day 3: The Byzantine City of Mystras Departure Dates & Prices Comfortable, well-located accommodations Day 4: Cape Tainaro - Entrance to Sep 10 - Sep 26, 2021 - $6695 USD with private bathrooms throughout. the Underworld Sep 08 - Sep 24, 2022 - $6695 USD Day 5: Diros Caves, Kardamyli Day 6: Travel to Olympia - Birthplace of the Olympic Games Day 7: The Handmade Textiles, Olives and Vineyards of Arahova Day 8: Delphi - The Center of the Ancient World Day 9: Meteora Day 10: To Athens, Ferry (Catamaran) From Rafina to the Island of Tinos Day 11: Tinos, Chora Day 12: Tinos, Pyrgos Village Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 131 Hiking in the British Isles Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England

This incredible 14 day journey has been designed In the English Lake District, enjoy a traditional to offer the history, heritage, landscapes and cultures of cream tea, a local market, and a creamery where we the British Isles. By spending a few days in four different watch their famous cheese being made. A steamship countries, we will understand the distinct characteristics takes us to the starting point of one of our scenic hikes. of each nation, while enjoying the outdoor-themed The Scottish Highlands offers wildlife, tasty treats and a highlights along the way. hike to the summit of Ben Vrackie, where the 360 degree views over Pitlochry and the countryside are simply stunning. We end our trip in Edinburgh with a walking In Ireland, we have the opportunity to explore tour and a bit of storytelling. Dublin by foot visiting the Book of Kells, enjoying a pint of Guinness, as well as experiencing the impressive beauty of Powerscourt House & Glendalough. A ferry takes us to Wales where we will enjoy more fantastic hikes, medieval castles and learn about Welsh history and their language.

132 Activity Level: 3/4 Daily Itinerary Fact File Day 1: Arrive in Dublin Day 2: Powerscourt House & scotland • 14 days Glendalough pitlochry • Maximum 16 travelers • Start in Dublin, Ireland and finish Day 3: Explore Dublin edinburgh in Edinburgh, Scotland Day 4: Across The Sea To Wales • All meals included Day 5: The Llyn Peninsula Highlights Day 6: Hiking Wales and North to the Yorkshire Dales yorkshire • Enjoy and active, offbeat adventure Day 7: Hiking Swaledale dales n.p to Ireland, Wales, England and Day 8: The English Lake District dublin Scotland caernarfon • Enjoy Dublin and the surrounding Day 9: North to Scotland ireland Irish countryside Day 10: Up the Mountain england • Visit Snowdonia National Park, Day 11: Dukes, Jacobites and wales castles and Welsh culture a White Castle • Explore Yorkshire Dales and Lake Day 12: The Highlands to District National Parks in England Edinburgh • Hike the scenic hills and explore the Day 13: Exploring Edinburgh Day 14: Depart Edinburgh sites of Edinburgh Departure Dates & Prices Jun 03 - Jun 16, 2021 - $6995 USD Jun 02 - Jun 15, 2022 - $6995 USD Comfort Level Hikes are on uneven terrain and you must be prepared for rain. One hike is Activity level 4. Accommodations Comfortable hotels with private bathrooms.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 133 Now includes the Western Fjords

Explore the rugged beauty of this North Atlantic island time visiting fishing villages, viewing the mystical Godafoss nation. For most people, the name Iceland conjures up little waterfall, walking through lava labyrinths, and visiting more than snow and ice. But it is much more than ice - in steaming sulphur pits of Hverarond. We visit the East Fjords its sagas, puffins, glaciers, fjords, active volcanoes, lava fields - 18 million-year-old geological wonders that were carved and hot springs, you’ll find the perfect blend of nature, out by glaciers during the last ice age. At Vatnajukoll ice culture and history. cap to the southeast, we visit Skaftafell National Park and a We begin in the capital city of Reykjavik and continue glacier lagoon. Accompanied by Icelandic mountain guides, south along the scenic coast, taking in lava fields, hot explore the park’s surrounding glaciers and be introduced to springs and bird cliffs enroute. See the remarkable Geysir, the “world of ice” that few people have seen. the geyser from which all geysers derive their name, and Enroute to Reykjavik, stop to view Dyrholaey - a natural Hveravellir Hot Springs - an oasis of warmth amidst two 400-foot high rock arch over the Atlantic Ocean that serves interior glaciers. Experience the hospitality of Icelanders in as a nesting point for thousands of puffins, guillemots and the quaint coastal towns of Akureyri and Höfn, and enjoy an kittiwakes. Finally, spend a day exploring the fascinating exciting whale watching trip from Husavik. capital city of Reykjavik. Join ElderTreks’ adventure to the In Lake Myvatn - world famous for its bird life - we spend land of the midnight sun and learn about European life in the Arctic Circle.

134 Activity Level: 2 Daily Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Keflavik, iceland Fact File Reykjavik City Sightseeing • 13 land days Golden Circle With Blonduos Husavik Day 2: Strandir • Maximum 16 travelers a Taste of Iceland and • Start and finish in Reykjavik Akureyri Lake Friðheimar Visit Latrabjarg Myvatn Egilsstadir • All meals included Day 3: Historic Stykkisholmur Borgarfjörður & Waterfalls Vatnajokull Highlights Reykholt Icecap With Ice Cave Gullfoss • Visit the remote and seldom ex- Thingvellir plored Western Fjords Adventure Geysir Höfn Day 4: The Wonders of Reykjavik • Enjoy a culinary workshop at a Skaftafell N.P. charming guesthouse Snæfellsnes Peninsula Vik • Visit Thingvellir National Park - a Day 5: Breiðafjörður Bay, UNESCO World Heritage Site Látrabjarg, Patreksfjörður • Explore Lake Myvatn Day 6: The West Fjords & Dynjandi Waterfall • Watch geysers erupt Departure Dates & Prices Day 7: Horse Farm Visit and Culinary • Visit an Icelandic horse farm Jun 20 - Jul 02, 2021 - $8580 USD Workshop at Brimslóð Guesthouse • Soak in hot springs and geother- Jul 05 - Jul 17, 2021 - $8580 USD Day 8: Akureyri and the Marvels of Lake mal pools at Blue Lagoon • Travel Jun 15 - Jun 27, 2022 - $8580 USD Mývatn by monster trucks to the ice cave at Day 9: Húsavík, Whale Watching, Langjökull glacier Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon, Egilsstaðir Comfort Level Some long and bumpy drives • Enjoy an amphibian boat tour on Day 10: East Fjords, Höfn Area

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Day 11: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Skaftafell National Park, Vík Area Accommodations Comfortable accommodation with private Day 12: South Coast With Lava Show, Blue bathrooms. 1 night at a charming guest- Lagoon, Reykjavík house where 2 rooms may share a bath- Day 13: Depart Reykjavík room depending on the group size.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 135 Arctic Polar Expedition Ship

Ocean Endeavour

Ocean Endeavour is a comfortable, well-appointed small expedition ship expertly engineered to explore the Polar Regions. The ship has an ice-strengthened hull, Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings, generous deck space and advanced navigation equipment. The ship offers a superb guest experience. Maximum: 198 passengers.

- Chef-prepared meals with complimentary - Lecture Theatre wine with dinner - Polar Boutique - Bar - Sundeck and plenty of deck space for - Multiple lounges observation - Polar library - Heated salt-water pool & hot tub - 24hr Gym - Laundry facilities (additional cost) - Newly built saunas and spa facilities and - Medical clinic wellness program - Complimentary expedition jacket included.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 137 INto the Northwest Passage east to west

A journey from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland to Meet the Inuit who call the Arctic home. Kugluktuk, Nunavut. Travel aboard the Ocean Travel with scientists, artists, musicians, local Endeavour in comfort. Our fleet of Zodiacs culturalists, and historians—all of whom are will take us where the action is—the heart of drawn magnetically north. Sail the great sea- history. route at the top of the world. The Northwest Passage calls you, too! Our voyage begins in Greenland, home to mighty icebergs, dramatic fjords, and calving This is not an ElderTreks operated tour. As glaciers! Colourful villages offer rich culture. such, participants on this tour are not exclusive Crossing the Davis Strait, we’ll explore the ElderTreks clients and it may not adhere to Baffin Island coast. We’re on the watch for ElderTreks’ maximum size restrictions of our whales, birds and bears. Zodiacs stand by for tours. excursions; visit Franklin expedition graves at Beechey Island. Follow in the wakes of Franklin, Rae, Amundsen and many more polar explorers.

138 bathurst Is.

beechey Island baffin bay devon Is. banks prince Is. Regent inlet ilulissat mittimatalik kanger- bellot lussuaq victoria Is. strait baffin Is. davis strait queen maud sisimuit gulf coast kugluktuk foxe basin Uqsuqtuuq (Gjoa haven)

Activity Level: 1 Qikiqtarjuaq (Broughton Island) Day 7: Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet), Nunavut • Watch for marine mammals and Days 8-10: Tallurutiup Imanga (Lancaster Fact File wildlife in Tallurutiup Imanga Sound) & Devon Island • 17 days (Lancaster Sound), a Marine Day 11: Beechey Island • Start in Kangerlussuaq, Protected Area Days 12-13: Prince Regent Inlet Greenland and finish in Kugluktuk • Explore Nunavut’s rarely visited Day 14-16: Kitikmeot Region (Coppermine), Canada national parks Day 17: Kugluktuk (Coppermine) • All meals on board included • Pass continental North America’s • Travel aboard the Ocean Endeavour northernmost point at Bellot Strait Departure Dates & ship • Seek polar bears, seabirds, and other Ocean Endeavour Highlights Arctic wildlife in pristine natural Aug 16 – Sep 01, 2021 • Cross the Arctic Circle as you sail the environments Triple from - $12995 USD length of Sondre Stromfjord Daily Itinerary Interior Twin from - $14895 USD • Cruise among icebergs at Ilulissat Exterior Twin from - $16395 USD Kangerlussuaq, Greenland Icefjord (UNESCO) Day 1: Call for complete prices. Sisimiut Coast • Visit Queen Maud Gulf, home to the Day 2: Prices exclude charter flights from Ilulissat wrecks of the Franklin ships, HMS Days 3: Toronto to Kangerlussuaq and Kugluktuk to Western Greenland Erebus and Terror Days 4-5: Yellowknife - $2695 USD. At Sea - Davis Strait • Enjoy an Inuit cultural welcome in Day 6: Call for further flight details. Comfort Level Seas can be rough. Zodiac landings required. Accommodations All travel aboard the Ocean Endeavour.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 139 OUt of the Northwest Passage west to east

The Northwest Passage is one of the Exploring archaeology and spotting bears. world’s greatest voyages. Our fleet of Zodiacs Visiting villages perched on mighty mountains. guarantees excitement with every excursion. Learning with our experts. Meeting the people who call the Arctic home. And sailing the The Arctic is calling. Pristine fjords. Looming passage at the top of the world! glaciers. Jagged icebergs. Grand vistas, historic sites, graves, and abandoned outposts. Marine This is not an ElderTreks operated tour. As mammals, bears and birds… wonders await. such, participants on this tour are not exclusive You will find a warm welcome in Nunavut’s ElderTreks clients and it may not adhere to communities, and Greenland offers geology, ElderTreks’ maximum size restrictions of our geography, and culture with a European flair. tours. Every day is a new adventure when sailing the Northwest Passage; hiking, photography, birding.

140 ellesmere Is. grice fiord melville bay

beechey is. bylot is. baffin bay prince of ilulissat wales island baffin Is. kanger- victoria Is. davis strait lussuaq itilleq fjord kugluktuk queen foxe basin maud gulf Uqsuqtuuq (Gjoa haven)

Activity Level: 1 Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Call for further flight details. Heritage Site Fact File Daily Itinerary Comfort Level • 17 days Seas can be rough. Zodiac landings Day 1: Kugluktuk (Coppermine) • Start in Kugluktuk (Coppermine), required. Day 2-4: Kitikmeot Region Canada and finish in Kangerlussuaq, Accommodations Greenland Day 5: Prince Regent Inlet • All meals on board included Day 6: Beechey Island All travel aboard the Ocean Endeavour. • Travel aboard the Ocean Endeavour Days 7-8: Tallurutiup Imanga Highlights (Lancaster Sound) Day 9: Aujuittuq (Grise Fiord) • Voyage the length of Sondre Days 10-11: Smith Sound Stromfjord • Seek polar bears, walrus, seabirds, Day 12: At Sea and other Arctic wildlife in pristine Days 13-14: Northwest Greenland natural environments Day 15: Ilulissat • Experience the majesty of the Day 16: Itilleq Fjord Northern Lights Day 17: Kangerlussuaq, Greenland • See the Franklin Expedition graves at Beechey Island Departure Dates & ship • Watch for marine mammals and Ocean Endeavour wildlife in Tallurutiup Imanga (Lancaster Sound) Marine Protected Sep 01 - Sep 17, 2021 Triple from - $12995 USD Area Interior Twin from - $14895 USD • Visit Aujuittuq (Grise Fiord), Exterior Twin from - $16395 USD Canada’s northernmost community Call for complete prices. • Seek your ‘furthest north’ in Smith Sound Prices exclude charter flight from • Zodiac cruise among icebergs at Yellowknife to Kugluktuk and Kangerlussuaq to Toronto - $2695 USD. Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 141 Greenland and wild Labrador

Follow the route of Leif Erickson. From and exploring the deep fjords with Inuit hosts. Our Kangerlussuaq, Greenland to St. John’s, NL, via coastal southerly journey will follow the rugged Labrador Labrador—stopping at incredible Canadian National coast. Parks along the way! Across the Strait of Belle Isle in Newfoundland, Sailing south over the Arctic Circle, we are we’ll roam North America’s only authenticated Norse surrounded by mountains and glaciers. Greenland’s site before sailing the picturesque coast of northeast coast is sublime! Nuuk, one of the world’s Newfoundland. northernmost capitals, offers shopping, dining, and This is not an ElderTreks operated tour. As such, handicrafts. participants on this tour are not exclusive ElderTreks Crossing the Davis Strait to Canada, we visit clients and it may not adhere to ElderTreks’ maximum Torngat Mountains National Park. This jewel in the size restrictions of our tours. Canadian park system is the first and only national park in Canada to be staffed completely by Inuit. We’ll honour this monumental achievement while hiking

142 Activity Level: 1 Departure Dates & Prices Fact File Ocean Endeavour Sep17 - Oct 01, 2021 • 15 days Triple - $8395 USD • Start in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland Interior Twin - $9795 USD and finish in St. John’s, Canada Exterior Twin - $11095 USD • All meals on board included Main Twin - $11995 USD • Travel aboard the Ocean Endeavour Comfort Twin - $13295 USD Call for complete prices. Highlights Prices exclude charter flights from • Zodiac along the face of a Toronto to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. Greenlandic glacier - $1295 USD. • Cross the Arctic Circle by ship via glorious Sondre Stromfjord Comfort Level • Meet elders and share Seas can be rough. Zodiac landings in a community event in required. Kangiqsualujjuaq, Nunavik • Hike and Zodiac among the fall Accommodations colours of Torngat Mountains All travel aboard the Ocean National Park, a model of Inuit Endeavour. leadership • Enjoy a warm welcome in Nain, the administrative capital of Nunatsiavut • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of L’Anse-aux- Meadows L’Anse-aux-Meadows - • Sail into St. John’s historic harbour first viking settlement for a spectacular finale in the New World Daily Itinerary Day 1: Kangerlussuaq, Greenland Day 2: Kangerlussuatsiaq Fjord Day 3: Nuuk Day 4: At Sea - Davis Strait Days 5-7: Torngat Mountains National Park Day 8: Hebron Day 9: Nain Days 10 -12: Labrador Coast Day 13: L’Anse aux Meadows Day 14: Eastern Newfoundland Day 15: St. John’s, NL

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 143 Polar Bears Of Churchill

Our Polar Bear Adventure starts and finishes launch where they will board a Buggy and begin in Winnipeg, Manitoba and includes return their search for wildlife. The Buggy meanders airfare to Churchill, a northern community with over a system of established trails, stopping at lots of character. Our hotel-based adventures leisure to enjoy the scenery, search for wildlife, offer a well rounded program combining polar and take photos. When daylight begins to fade, bear viewing with activities in and around we’ll head back to the launch and be transferred the community of Churchill. This program is back to our hotel in town. designed for those who wish to learn about the This is not an ElderTreks operated tour. As history and culture of Churchill and region, as such, participants on this tour are not exclusive well as experience incredible polar bears. ElderTreks clients and it may not adhere to On days that have a Tundra Buggy ElderTreks’ maximum size restrictions of our Adventure scheduled, participants will be tours. transferred from town to the Tundra Buggy

144 Activity Level: 1 Departure Dates & prices Sep 25 – Sep 30, 2021 - $6949 hudson Fact File Oct 03 – Oct 08, 2021 - $6949 bay • 6 days with charter flights Oct 08 – Oct 13, 2021 - $6949 churchill • Includes all meals in Churchill Oct 11 – Oct 16, 2021 - $6949 • Maximum 22 passengers Oct 14 – Oct 19, 2021 - $6949 Oct 17 – Oct 22, 2021 - $6949 Highlights Oct 20 – Oct 25, 2021 - $6949 Oct 23 – Oct 28, 2021 - $6949 • Visit the premier location in the Oct 26 – Oct 31, 2021 - $6949 world for getting up close and Oct 29 – Nov 03, 2021 - $6949 manitoba personal to polar bears Nov 01 – Nov 06, 2021 - $6949 • Well-rounded experience on Tundra Nov 04 – Nov 09, 2021 - $6949 Buggy® and activities such as dog Nov 07 – Nov 12, 2021 - $6949 sledding, museum visits, cultural Nov 10 – Nov 15, 2021 - $6949 programs and a slide show of the Nov 13 – Nov 18, 2021 - $6949 seasons in Churchill PRICES IN CAD - Per person based on • One year membership to Polar Bears double occupancy International Prices do not include 13% sales tax. Mandatory single supp: $1150 CDN. winnipeg Daily Itinerary Day 1: Arrive and Overnight in Winnipeg, Manitoba Day 2: Early Morning Flight to Churchill, Town Tour and Parks Canada Visitor Center Days 3: Tundra Buggy Adventures Days 4: Dog SleddingArgentina and Itsanitaq Museum Ushuaia Falkland Day 5: Final TundraIslands Buggy Adventure Day 6: Winnipeg

King George ComfortIsl. Level Comfortable hotels and lodges throughout. TrainAnt ridearct departuresic South include Shetland sleeper cabins. Peninsula islands snow hill Accommodationsisland weddell sea 2 nights in Winnipeg, 3 nights in Churchill Lodge. Call us for VIA Rail departures: 2 nights on train, 3 nights in Churchill Lodge and 2 nights in Winnipeg.

Call for our detailed itinerary: North America 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • www.eldertreks.com 145 TERMS AND CONDITIONS BOOKING PROCEDURE: Participants shall not be entitled to a refund for any trip, or portion affect any trip or the health or safety of any Participant, the Company thereof, that the Participant does not use or attend for any reason reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to cancel, 1. Read all Booking Procedures and all Terms and Conditions carefully. whatsoever, including but not limited to no-show, illness, accident, postpone or change itinerary of any trip; and 2. Contact ElderTreks™ by telephone: 1-800-741-7956 (toll-free or neglect of any person. Despite any provision to the contrary, ap- iii) Force Majeure: In the event that any circumstance arises that may number in North America) or 0808-234-1714 (toll-free in the U.K.) or plicable Cancellation Fees shall be non-refundable and shall apply affect any trip or the health, safety or security of any Participant, or in 416-588-5000 (locally), or 001-416-588-5000 (internationally) in addition to any other non-refundable, or unrecoverable amounts the event that circumstances otherwise prevent the Company from paid by or on behalf of the Participant (including non-refundable air providing, either in whole or in part, its goods or services to Partici- 3. DEPOSITS: to hold and secure your place on a land or ship-based arrangements). departure. A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of pants in a safe manner or at all, the Company reserves the right, in its booking. If anyone would like to transfer their deposit to another ElderTreks™ and the ship operators reserve the right to cancel or sole and absolute discretion, to cancel, postpone or change itinerary trip, please see the TRANSFER section or call our office. Deposit amend the price of any trip at any time up to the date of departure. of any trip. amounts vary depending on the trip, as follows: In the event that the tour price increases by more than 7% of the Any monies, deposits or payments of any kind paid to any air con- price at the time of booking, the Participant may cancel the trip and For land trips: Most trips require a $500 USD non-refundable deposit solidator, airline, Contractor or third party by, or on behalf of, any Par- request a full refund of payment made to ElderTreks™ by providing ticipant, for any goods or services in respect to any trip cancelled or per person. If booking your trip within one hundred twenty (120) days written notice to ElderTreks™ prior to the date of departure and of departure, full payment is due at time of booking. postponed by the Company are non-refundable except to the extent within seven (7) days of being notified of such price increase. Re- that the Company has recovered such monies, deposits or payments The following trips require a larger non-refundable deposit: funds will not be provided where tour price increases are the result of from the air consolidator, airline, Contractor, or third party. government taxation or fuel surcharges. Uganda & Rwanda: $1000 min / $2400 max USD depending on In the event that the Company cancels or postpones any trip, and/ permits Transfers or fails to provide any goods or services connected thereto, the For land trips: Participants booked on any land program may be Polar Bears of Churchill: $1050 CAD Participant shall have no right to make a claim against the Company permitted to transfer to any other trip offered by ElderTreks™ (with a for any damages or loss whatsoever including, but not limited to, Heli-hiking Canadian Rockies: $2000 CAD minimum $150 administrative fee), provided that the Participant provides non-refundable advance purchase air tickets, visa fees, prescription ElderTreks™ with a written request no less than one hundred twenty Peru - Cultural Journey: $750 USD drugs, vaccinations, equipment or any other expenses incurred by (120) days prior to the departure date. Participants are only permitted to the Participant in preparation for any trip. Galapagos: $1250 USD transfer once. The new trip must be booked no later than six (6) months subsequent to the date of departure of the trip transferred from. Notwithstanding the forgoing, in the event that the Company is For any land extension: a $100 USD (or more depending on the liable to any Participant for any amount(s), the aggregate liability of extension) non-refundable deposit per person is required. Transfer requests made less than the minimum one hundred twenty the Company shall be limited to the actual amount(s) paid by that For ship-based trips, the following deposits are required: (120) day notice requirement, outlined above, shall be governed in Participant to the Company. accordance with the Cancellation Policy outlined above. Uganda & Canadian Arctic: $1500 USD. Haida Gwaii: $1500 CAD. Galapagos: All Terms and Conditions Shall Apply to all Participants. $1250 USD. All other ship based trips require 30% deposit at time Rwanda the transfer fee is $1000/$2400 USD per person to cover the cost of all permits pre purchased. Upon providing any payment or deposit to the Company, the of booking. If booking a ship-based program within 150 days of the Participant represents to the Company that he/she has read and departure date, full payment is due at time of booking. Land-based For Extensions: Once arrangements have been made, the $100 understood the Booking Procedure and Terms and Conditions tours which have a small ship or cruise portion of the itinerary, follow deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. contained herein and has agreed to be bound by same. These Terms the above Land trip conditions for deposits. Ship-based trips: Transfers will be considered on a request basis and Conditions form a Contract which shall be binding upon the 4. Notwithstanding the above, ElderTreks™ reserves the right to only, cannot be guaranteed and are subject to the cancellation policy. Participant. modify or amend the amount of any deposit for any trip. Liability Where a Participant has provided payment to the Company on behalf 5. On receipt of your deposit (or full payment if booked within 150 Passages Exotic Expeditions Ltd. (operating as “ElderTreks™” and of any other Participant(s), the Participant who has provided payment days of the departure date), we will send you a confirmation letter­ hereinafter referred to as the “Company”, where such term shall in- to the Company shall, upon providing payment to the Company, be together with a Trip Kit pre-departure booklet, a registration form, clude its owners, affiliates, employees, outfitters, successors assigns deemed to represent, confirm and covenant to the Company that he/ and required medical forms. and agents), shall not be responsible or liable to any “Participant” she acts as an agent for the other Participant(s), that he/she is acting with the full knowledge and consent of such other Participant(s), 6. It is your responsibility to determine and obtain all necessary travel (where such term shall include any customer, and/or client of the Company and/or any person who otherwise receives any goods or that he/she has the full authorization and consent of such other documents (including passport and visas), medical and other Participant(s) to contract with the Company on their behalf, and to ­insurance coverage prior to your departure. services provided by the Company, their heirs, dependents, execu- tors, administrators, successors, agents, assigns, and personal and bind them to the Terms and Conditions contained herein, that he/ she has advised such other Participant(s) of the Booking Procedures 7. FINAL PAYMENTS legal representatives) for any injury, damage, accident, loss, claim, delay, and/or irregularity, howsoever caused, that arises from, is con- and the Terms and Conditions contained herein, and that such other i) For land trips: Your final payment, signed registration form and nected to, or is in any way related to any goods and/or services sold Participant(s) has read, understood and agreed to be bound by the executed medical forms must be received by ElderTreks™ no later or otherwise provided by the Company. Booking Procedures and the Terms and Conditions contained herein. than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to departure. Upon receipt, Where a Participant has provided payment to the Company on behalf we will send final documents to you approximately thirty (30) days The Participant understands that during the course of any trip, certain of any other Participant(s) under the age of 18 (hereinafter referred prior to your date of departure. risks and dangers may occur, including but not limited to the hazards of traveling in mountainous terrain, jungles, rivers; and/or accident to as the “Minor”), the Participant who has provided payment to the ii) For ship-based trips: Your final payment, signed release and or illness in remote places with or without medical facilities; and Company shall be deemed to represent, confirm and covenant to the executed medical forms must be received by ElderTreks™ no less subject to forces of nature. By taking part in any trip, the Participant than 150 days prior to your date of departure for all ship-based trips. acknowledges having been advised of the risks associated therein Company that he/she is not a Minor, that he/she has fully advised the ElderTreks™ will issue final documents approximately 21 days prior and assumes the sole and exclusive responsibility for such risks. Minor of each and every Booking Procedure and Term and Condition to your date of departure. The Company shall not be responsible or liable to any Participant contained herein, that the Minor agrees to be bound by the Booking Cancellation Policy for any injury, damage, accident, loss, delay and/or irregularity, Procedure and the Terms and Conditions contained herein, that he/ Participants seeking to cancel or revise any trip must provide howsoever caused, that arises from, is connected to, or is in any way she shall at all material times supervise the Minor and assume all ElderTreks™ with a written request in accordance with these Terms related to any goods and/or services sold or otherwise provided by obligations of the Minor, that he/she is the Minor’s lawful guardian, that and Conditions. Requests for revisions and/or cancellations shall be the Company’s Contractors where such term includes any third party, he/she has advised the Minor that the Company bears no liability or determined in the sole and absolute discretion of ElderTreks™. Name including but not limited to any transportation company retained by responsibility in favor of the Minor, and that the Minor has agreed to changes are considered to be a cancellation of one traveler and a new the Company to provide goods or services to any Participant. same. booking of another, assuming space available. Each Participant further agrees not to make any claim or take any The Company reserves the right to withdraw, alter or otherwise Participants booked on all land-based adventures may receive a proceedings against any other person, corporation or entity who modify any trips, itineraries, specific programs, activities, Booking refund for a cancelled trip, subject to a cancellation fee, as follows: might claim contribution, indemnity or other relief against the Com- Procedures, and/or Terms and Conditions at any time, without notice. Cancellation made Cancellation Fee pany under the provisions of any applicable law or equity in relation Health and Fitness (days before departure) to any cause, matter or thing released hereunder. ElderTreks™ expeditions are available to anyone in good health More than 120 days deposit amount* Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, the Company reserves and in good shape. Participants do not have to be athletes, but 31 – 119 days 50% of tour price the right to cancel any trip at any time in its sole and absolute ElderTreks™ programs require some reasonable physical effort. Par- 0 – 30 days 100% of tour price discretion without liability to any Participant, for any amount or claim, ticipants should refer to the specifics of each program to determine Please note cancellations for Heli-Hiking in the Canadian Rockies including but not limited to any monies, deposits or payments of any suitability. Peru Cultural Journey/Peru Inca Trail, and Polar Bears of Churchill kind that have already been paid by, or on behalf of, the Participant It is the responsibility of each Participant to ensure that ElderTreks™ between 0-150 days is 100% of tour price. to the Company or any other person, including, but not limited to, is advised, at the time of booking, of any and all material medical circumstances involving the following: Participants booked on all ship-based adventures may receive a problems or issues related to the Participant. The Company reserves refund for a cancelled trip, subject to a cancellation fee, as follows: i) War/Terrorism/Political Unrest: In the event that any act of war, the right to remove any Participant from any act or activity, or from any terrorism or political unrest may affect any trip or the health, safety trip, at any time during the trip if, in the sole and exclusive judgment Cancellation made Cancellation Fee or security of any Participant, the Company reserves the right, in its of the Company,­ the Participant’s participation in such act, activity or (days before departure) sole and absolute discretion, to cancel, postpone or change itinerary trip poses a material risk to the health and safety of any Participant or More than 150 days deposit amount of any trip; the Company. 0 – 149 days 100% of tour price ii) Infectious Diseases: In the event that any infectious disease may ElderTreks™ trips may involve travel to foreign countries where living standards, practices and the provision of utilities, services day trips and all guide services in the tour price. Transportation shall Consequently, it is strongly recommended that all Participants obtain full and accommodation­ are different than that available in Ontario or not include internal flights unless specified, and shall not include insurance coverage, including travel, cancellation, medical, evacuation elsewhere in North America. Participants are exclusively responsible international travel or international air arrangements. Gratuities for and other emergency coverage, prior to departure. hotel staff, restaurants, national guides and drivers are not included; for choosing a trip that best suits their interests, abilities, fitness level Insurance coverage is not included in the tour price. Insurance coverage they are at the sole discretion of the Participant. and health. ElderTreks™­ requires a doctor’s signature on our medical is the sole and exclusive responsibility of the Participant. Please note form if participant is 80 years of age or older. All tour prices do not include any items of a personal nature (includ- that some programs require mandatory evacuation insurance coverage. Foreign Law ing but not limited to visa fees), international departure taxes for The Company shall not be responsible for any sickness, accident, loss All goods and services provided during the course of any trip may flights, which are not a part of the tour price, or catch-up charges in or expense of any kind sustained by any Participant arising from, or be subject to the laws of the country or jurisdiction in which they are the event of a Participant’s late arrival. related to, any goods or services provided by the Company. provided. It is the exclusive obligation of the Participant to familiarize Air Travel If any participant, after the start of a trip, cannot complete all or any por- itself with said laws and ensure compliance thereof. ElderTreks™, tours are based on “land-only” or “ship-only” costs, tion of the remainder of the trip, it is the responsibility of the participant Passports/Visas and do not include international airfare. However, ElderTreks™ may to contact the insurance company (whether or not the insurance was All Participants are required to have a valid passport for all trips. arrange international flights if requested by the Participant. Prices will purchased through ElderTreks™). ElderTreks™ acts only as an agent Passports are often required to be valid for at least six (6) months be- be provided in response to individual requests as they occur. and is not the insurance provider. yond the completion date of the trip, depending on the country, and Airfares quoted are not guaranteed until the airfare is paid in full and Photographic Records must have sufficient blank pages for all necessary travel visas and ap- the tickets are issued. All tickets issued by ElderTreks™ are subject The Company reserves the right to make photographic, film and other propriate entry / exit stamps. When traveling the globe, it is frequently to the rules and regulations of the airline and consolidator providing records of any of its trips, and to use such records for any promotional necessary to obtain visas to enter certain countries. ElderTreks™ will the issued tickets as well as an ElderTreks™ $85 USD/CAD admin- and/or commercial purposes throughout the world in perpetuity. By supply information on what visas are required, however it is the travel- istration fee (subject to change). All air tickets are non-refundable & booking a trip with the Company, the Participant shall be deemed ers responsibility to obtain the required documents to travel. non-changeable and valid only for the flights indicated. to consent to the making and use of such records (including voice, appearance, likeness and image) and the Participant acknowledges Documentation If international flights are not purchased from ElderTreks™, it is the that any such photographic or other records shall remain the sole and All Participants shall provide ElderTreks™ with a signed registration Participant’s responsibility to ensure that a flight itinerary, including exclusive property of the Company. form, a copy of the passport and completed registration and medical arrival and departure flight information and times, is provided to El- forms before final payment (120/150 days prior to departure). The derTreks™ as soon as it is available and, in any event, no later when Published Material Company reserves the right to refuse any goods or services to any your final payment is due. All material published by ElderTreks™ including but not limited to all Participant at any time prior to, or during any trip without liability to material published on the ElderTreks™ website, all brochures, catalogues, Names as per passport, date of birth, passport number, date and provide the Participant with any refund, financial or other compensa- pamphlets and any other document published for the use of any Partici- place of issue, and expiration date are required at time of booking for tion if the Participant fails to provide ElderTreks™ with any of the pant, remains the sole and exclusive property of ElderTreks™ and shall each guest(s). Changes to flight itineraries and names changes and/ registration form, completed medical forms or payments required not be used for any other purpose, be reproduced or distributed to any or corrections may either not be permitted by the airline or may result in accordance with these Terms and Conditions and/or Booking other person except with the express written permission of ElderTreks™. Procedures. in penalties charge by the airline. All airline fees are the responsibility of the guest. Claims Conduct A Participant who has any claims arising from, or relating to, any trip Air routings are solely controlled by the airline and are subject to All Participants are required to respect the interests of others and shall notify ElderTreks™ of such claims, on pain of nullity, in writing and change at any time. ElderTreks™ reserves the right to offer alterna- shall not interfere with the enjoyment of any other Participant. The within thirty (30) days of the scheduled return date for that trip. Company reserves the right to remove any Participant from any act tive air schedules for itineraries affected by airline schedule changes or activity, or from any trip or portion thereof, at any time without and/or equipment changes. Flight delays, cancellations and sched- Any legal proceeding which may be subject to the jurisdiction of Canada liability to provide the Participant with any refund, financial or other ule changes are the responsibility of the airlines. ElderTreks™ will not arising from, or relating to, any trip must be instituted, on pain of nullity, compensation if, in the sole and exclusive judgment of the Company, be held responsible or liable for such delays or rescheduling. Airline in the judicial district of the City of Toronto, exclusively, within ninety (90) the Participant’s behavior may compromise the safety, interests or fuel surcharges, and airline related taxes, fees, & fare restrictions days of the scheduled return date for that trip. are provided at time of booking and based on a roundtrip purchase. enjoyment of any other Participant or person. Jurisdiction Any additional fees such as baggage, seat selection and/or other These Terms and Conditions shall be governed in accordance with the Airline Responsibility Clause airline services are at the sole responsibility of the guest. Seat/Meal The Terms and Conditions contained herein do not bind any third laws of the province of Ontario. The Company and the Participant attorn requests may be made at time of booking; however, the assignment to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of Ontario. party except as specifically stated herein. The Company does not is subject to the airline rules and ElderTreks™ assumes no responsi- commit or make any representations for, or on behalf of, any third bility that requests will be confirmed and/or granted. No Waiver party, including but not limited to any airline, whose services may be No action or failure to act on the part of ElderTreks™ in respect of any used in ­connection with any trip. Confirmed flight itineraries, confirmation numbers, including final breach or non-compliance, whether continuing or otherwise, by any arrival and departure information and confirmed flight times are Tour Price Participant of any term or condition contained or referred to herein, shall provided to ElderTreks™ as soon as it is available, in any event, no constitute a waiver by ElderTreks™. ElderTreks™ shall remain free to Tour prices are based on airfares, currency rates and land costs cur- later than when your final payment is due. rent as of Nov. 1, 2019 and may remain in effect until Oct 31, 2020. All enforce each and every term and condition contained or referred to herein prices are in U.S. dollars unless clearly noted. The tour price includes Frequent flyer membership numbers may be provided at time of at any time, despite any representation to the contrary. No forbearance all applicable fees, levies, charges, service charges, surcharges and booking for accrual of miles only. ElderTreks™ cannot upgrade of or failure to seek remedy on the part of ElderTreks™ in respect of any taxes, save and except with respect to destinations and travel within purchase any air tickets using frequent flyer mileage. Many airlines breach or non-compliance of any term or condition contained or referred Canada which may be subject to the Harmonized Sales Tax (“HST”) do not automatically add guest membership numbers to the air tick- to herein by any Participant shall constitute a waiver by ElderTreks™ of and those items specifically stated to the contrary. Tour prices may be ets issued by ElderTreks™ it is the guest’s responsibility to request any rights or remedies otherwise available to ElderTreks™. mileage credit from the airlines directly. ElderTreks™ shall not be subject to change at any time, up to and including the date of depar- Severability ture. The tour price does not include any items of a personal nature, held liable for matters concerning frequent flyer mileage. Should any term or condition, or portion thereof, be found by a court including but not limited to visa fees, international departure taxes, or Tour Operator of competent jurisdiction to be void, invalid or otherwise unenforce- catch-up charges in the event of a Participant’s late arrival. The Company may contract with other tour operators and other third able, such term or condition shall be severable from the balance of What is and what is not included parties to provide goods and services in respect of any trip. Each these terms and conditions and shall not adversely affect the validity or ElderTreks™, land based itineraries include all accommodations, all participant shall be bound to the terms and conditions of such ap- enforceability of the remaining terms and conditions. plicable tour operators and third parties. transportation (air, train, bus, auto, boats, elephants, camels, boats Operator etc., except as specifically excluded), all meals, all planned day trips, Sharing and Single Supplement All goods and services that are provided by the Company are provided all departure taxes for flights included in the tour price and all guide For land trips: (excluding extensions, Heli-hiking, Peru Cultural by the tour operator, more particularly described as follows: services in the tour price. Transportation shall not include internal Journey, Peru Hiking the Inca Trail, Polar Bears of Churchill). All Passages Exotic Expeditions Ltd. flights where specified, and shall not include international travel or prices are based on double occupancy. Single travelers will not be international air arrangements. All gratuities for hotel staff, restau- 23 Clinton St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M6J 2N9 subject to a mandatory single supplement payment for ElderTreks™, Tel: (416) 588-5000 rants, drivers, spot guides and national guides are included, with the main itineraries, provided the Participant is accommodated on a exception of gratuities to your tour leaders. Gratuities are at the sole shared occupancy basis. ElderTreks™ will endeavor to group single Ontario Registration Retail #04116059 / Wholesale #04161212 discretion of the Participant. Participants together, to the extent possible, based on the same Passages Exotic Expeditions Ltd. is a retail and wholesale registrant in ElderTreks™, ship-based itineraries include cabin accommodations gender. This policy does not apply to single travelers taking exten- good standing with the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (“TICO”) as as per category booked, pre-cruise accommodation on a shared sions. Single occupancy, where specifically requested or otherwise required under the Travel Industry Act. basis as indicated in the itinerary, all meals throughout the voyage required, may be available at an extra charge. aboard the ship, all shore excursions and activities throughout the ElderTreks™ is a registered trademark of Passages Exotic For ship-based trips: All prices are based on a per- person cost Expeditions Ltd. voyage as indicated in the itinerary. Transportation shall not include depending on cabin chosen. Single occupancy, where specifi- internal flights unless specified and shall not include international cally requested or otherwise required, may be available at an extra Passages Exotic Expeditions Ltd. is the registered owner in the U.S. and travel or international air arrangements. Gratuities are not included; charge. For some ships, some categories, a single supplement Canada of the trade name ElderTreks™. they are at the sole discretion of the Participant. charge is mandatory. ElderTreks™, extension itineraries include all accommodations, all Insurance transportation (train, bus, auto, boats, elephants, camels, boats etc., While ElderTreks™ may make every effort to ensure the health, except as specifically excluded), meals as per itinerary, all planned safety and enjoyment of all Participants, accidents can happen. 23 Clinton Street Toronto, ON M6J 2N9, Canada

Canada & USA 1-800-741-7956 • UK 0808-234-1714 • Worldwide 001-416-588-5000 Website www.eldertreks.com