Cultural Tours & Trips 2020
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DEPARTURE DATES
Style
Style
Small Group Tour Small groups are usually defined as between 10 and 24 travelers, often less. If you're the kind of person who enjoys more intimate experiences and personal service this is a good choice. All else being equal you will pay a premium for this style vs a larger group tour.
Private Guided Private tours give you the undivided attention of a guide, and often involve special access to sites and unique experiences not available to larger groups. This is a great option for families, couples, and small friend groups. Expect to pay a bit more for the extra service.
Self Guided Tour A travel company plans your itinerary and arranges all the logistics including lodging, local activities, and transportantion. You have the flexibility of a solo trip while still getting the convience and time savings of expert planning. Get 90% of the benefits of a tour, without a guide.
Group Tour Groups are between 25-60 people, typically ~30-40. Usually there will be many opportunities to split off and enjoy meals and excursions in smaller groups. This is the most economical way to travel, saving up to 40% versus booking the same itinerary yourself.
River Cruise These vessels are smaller than most ocean cruisers, limiting which amenties are available. Passenger counts can vary. One of the biggest advantages of a river cruise is the ability to dock at smaller ports and local villages.
Small Ship Cruise Small ship cruises usually have a max passenger count of 500. The primary purpose of these trips is to spend time off the vessel in local ports (e.g. Mediterranean) or experiencing nature (e.g Galapagos or Antarctica). Cabins can vary from budget to luxury.
Large Ship Cruise This is the "floating city" experience, with multiple ways to enjoy your vacation aboard the ship as much as on land. Ships are multiple floors, provide several activities, culinary, and shopping options. They often make fewer stops and have less time available for shore excursions.
Retreats Similar to a self guided tour but staying in one location only with activities and day outings included as a part of the stay.
Price
Duration Dropdown
Travelers Age
Lodging Level
Lodging Level
Camping Typically involves most nights sleeping in tents (sometimes permanent tented sites) or in rustic cabins and lodges.
Basic - 2 star You'll stay in no-frills, but clean and comfortable, hotels or guesthouses. A 'Basic' trip might also involve a few nights of camping.
Value - 3 star Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Premium - 4 star 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Luxury - 5 star The highest level of comfort and service. All accomodations are in four or five star hotels, boutique lodges or high-end homestays.
Physical Level
Physical Level
Very Easy Minimal walking - motor vehicles available for all major parts of trip.
Easy Normal generally flat walking in urban or suburban environments.
Moderate Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment.
Strenuous All or most of day hiking or biking, hills included.
Extreme Very challenging all day hiking and backpacking carrying significant equipment.
Theme
Attractions & Cities Visited
Activities & Interests
Travel Style
Travel Style
Flexible schedule A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Full schedule For those looking to maximize their sight seeing time. You thrive on a packed day’s schedule from 8 am to 6pm, with some (but limited) free time. Most activities and meals included.
Balanced schedule You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Flight & Transport Inclusions
Solo Friendly
Solo Friendly
Good for Singles Trips that specifically cater to travelers looking to meet other singles.
No Single Supplement Trips where single supplement is usually not required for solo travelers.
Supplier (Company)
Countries Visited
Continents Visited
Rivers & Seas Visitied
Stride Gives Back Stride Gives Back This trip visits a destination impacted by climate change. When you opt in to the Travelstride Gives Back program, we will donate 10% of our net revenue to organizations that help mitigate climate change in these destinations and across the globe. Learn more
Five Epic National Parks
- Pocatello: Take a tour of Swore Farms and learn where and how crops are grown followed by a lunch in the greenhouse.
- Jackson: Take a scenic float trip on Snake River, taking in a new perspective of the famed Grand Tetons.
- Grand Teton National Park: See Grand Teton National park with the shimmering peaks of the Teton range rising up above alpine forests and lakes. The park is famous for it's 40-mile long Teton Mountain Range including the major peaks of that particular range.
- Yellowstone National Park: Without a doubt a bucket list destination for many travelers - welcome to Yellowstone National Park. Established as America's first National Park by President Grant in 1872 Yellowstone is famous for it's hot springs, bubbling mud pots, vast canyons and lush forests as far as the eye can see.
- Salt Lake City: Your Tour Director will point out key features and areas of interest on arrival to Salt Lake City.
- Bryce Canyon National Park: Pink, orange and rusty-red limestone spires, known as hoodoos, rise up from the desert floor at Bryce Canyon, home to the largest collection of these spires in the world.
- Zion National Park: Connect to history as you wander paths and trails, following in the footsteps of Native Americans and the earliest pioneers. Lush vegetation, wild rivers, roaring waterfalls and towering cliffs characterise the natural beauty of this park.
- Zion National Park: Take a private 90-minute tram tour exploring the valley floor of Zion National Park.
- Grand Canyon National Park: Explore Grand Canyon Railway and view Kaibab National Forest on your way to The Grand Canyon.
- Grand Canyon National Park: Arrive at one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the second most visited national park in the United States, the Grand Canyon. Encompassing 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands, Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world and offers unmatched vistas along its rim.
- Las Vegas: Stop at Kingman and Seligman - historic towns on Route 66.
- Grand Canyon: Travel to Desert View and bask in the views of the Grand Canyon and the iconic watchtower decorated with its Hopi artist murals. Make your way to an Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage site where members share their stories, family histories and provide cultural demonstrations such as carpet weaving and traditional song and dance performances. Our visit and donation provide a continuous source of seed funding for the heritage site while allowing guests to engage directly with Indigenous community members.
- Visit Jackson, Grand Teton National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Williams, Cameron Trading Post
- Visit a farm in Idaho for a tour and hosted lunch
- Explore the many facets of Yellowstone National Park with its geysers, hot springs, deep canyon and wildlife
- Discover Grand Canyon National Park including Desert View Point
- Scenic Cruise down the Snake River on a float trip
British Royale (Edinburgh, Royal Scotsman, Small ...

- London: Your passionate Local Expert will lead you from Westminster to Piccadilly Circus as they recount fascinating tales of London and its famous landmarks. Pass by the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and Trafalgar Square as you explore the English capital.
- London: Step through history at Horse Guards Parade, the ceremonial grounds of St James Park in the shadow of Buckingham Palace. Discover the secrets of a cavalryman’s uniform in the Household Cavalry Museum before trying on the royal clothes yourself.
- Stonehenge: Visit the mysterious circle of upright stones, the best known prehistoric site in Europe. Experience the lives led by Neolithic builders 3,500 years ago and admire the selection of archaeological treasures that have been unearthed in this place.
- Bath: Be taken through the grand historic sights of Bath with a private orientation tour. See the majestic Royal Terrace, the inspiring architecture of Bath Abbey, and, the stately Pulteney Bridge, completed in 1774.
- Bath: Join a Local Expert for an insightful tour revealing the town's history.
- Cotswolds: Journey through the Cotswolds, one of the most quintessential and unspoiled regions of England, famous for gentle, rolling hillsides known as ‘wolds’, green river valleys and historic market towns, where time has stood still for over 300 years.
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Fans of the famous playwright, William Shakespeare, will love exploring this vibrant town where he was born. This cultural centre still has many rows of attractive half-timbered houses that date back to the 16th century.
- Ullswater: Enjoy a scenic cruise on one of England's most beautiful lakes.
- Alnwick Castle: Join a Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of the 11th century castle, with its striking medieval architecture and see why it was featured in the Harry Potter films.
- Edinburgh: A Local Expert guides you around magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched on a black basalt outcrop. Discover the site’s 900-year history and take in the spectacular panoramic views over the city’s most famous landmarks.
- Edinburgh: Wander along Princes Street with your Local Expert, past the Gothic Sir Walter Scott Monument, and continue down the old-world Royal Mile to the gates of Holyrood Palace, the principal residence of Scottish royalty since the 16th century, and the Queen’s official Edinburgh lodgings.
- Edinburgh: In true Gaelic style, meet a fabulously entertaining bagpiper, playing pipes passed down since 1888. Hear fascinating tales from the time he played for the Queen Mother, to riotous nights at Edinburgh Castle.
- Plockton: Take a boat trip on Loch Carron and see its iconic colony of wild seals. Bask in the magnificent views of the Applecross Mountains, followed by a leisurely woodland walk.
- Glamis: Visit Glamis Castle, childhood home of the late HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
- Optional - Bath: Visit the historic Roman Baths, which draw from Britain’s only natural mineral springs and gave the Georgian city its name. This remarkably preserved historic site was once a gathering spot for Romans to bathe and socialise over 2,000 years ago.
- Optional - Bath: Visit the immersive Jane Austen Centre dedicated to the writer who lived here in the early 1800s and used the city as a setting for two of her novels. Learn about her life, her works and the Regency period from entertaining actors.
- Optional - York: Embark on a leisurely guided tour to the grand York Minster, an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
- Optional - York: Get active and follow a Local Expert as you walk on the 13th century city walls and you soak up the spectacular views of River Ouse and the Old Town.
- Optional - Edinburgh: Visit the 17th century Mary King's Close with a Local Expert, walk in the footsteps of former residents and unlock fascinating stories from Edinburgh's sometimes dark past.
- Optional - Edinburgh: Try a wee dram of whisky as you embark on a tasting experience of this Scottish staple.
- Optional - Isle of Skye: Go for an invigorating early-morning walk over the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye.
- Optional - Eilean Donan Castle: Take a short drive to marvel at Eilean Donan Castle.
- Optional - Ballindalloch: Enjoy a private castle tour at Ballindaloch.
- Optional - Carrbridge: Take an exclusive look at what is Scotland's only single estate distillery.
- Optional - Aviemore: Enjoy one of the outdoor activities at Rothiemurchus Estate like clay pigeon shooting or fishing
- Optional - Aviemore: Join a tour of Rothiemurchus Estate.
- London: You’re invited to the Tower of London to experience the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military ceremony in the world. At your special after-hours visit you’ll get an inside look at the 700-year-old tradition that stood the tests of even the most tumultuous times.
- York: Feeling like the star of a period drama, you’ll enter the 18th century mansion for a private tour of the house.
Mexico Unplugged

- Practice your bargaining skills, snap some photos and pick up traditional handicrafts at the markets in Mexico City and Puebla.
- Visit the community of San Pedro Tlahuac, home to Nahuatl descendants who practice traditions like chinampa farming, fiestas and ancient ceremonies.
- Escape the Mexican heat in the highlands of San Cristobal de las Casas and explore surrounding villages where traditional customs and roots are thriving.
- Explore the stunning Mayan temples of Palenque dating back to AD600 and stroll through Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
- Finish off your epic journey and recharge with a little beach time in the beachside hub of Playa del Carmen
Wonders of Italy
- Florence: Eight generations of history with plenty of stories to tell. Enjoy a traditional Be My Guest lunch with the Landi family at their home near Florence, set within a garden of oak trees against the backdrop of Tuscan vineyards and olive groves.
- Rome: Be inspired by the magnificence of Michelangelo and da Vinci at the Vatican Museums and enjoy an exclusive visit up the spiral staircase designed by the famous architect Donato Bramante in a part of the Vatican not open to the public.
- Rome: During an orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches scattered throughout the city.
- Rome: Experience Rome through the eyes of a local, as a passionate Roman guides you past the city's most iconic sites.
- Rome: Discover ancient treasures of Rome with a passionate local. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, and stand beside the Colosseum, which bears witness to the limitless courage of the gladiators.
- Lucca: Your orientation with your Travel Director will show you the churches, squares and palaces within the medieval ramparts.
- Cinque Terre: Led by your Local Specialist, visit this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked away on the mountainous Italian Riviera coastline. Admire the charming fishing villages and perhaps snap some memorable pictures.
- Pisa: During an orientation, your Travel Director will show you the baptistery, cathedral and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
- San Gimignano: Visit the medieval Manhattan of Italy as you explore the UNESCO-listed centre of San Gimignano and admire the city's distinctive towers.
- Florence: Join a Local Specialist to view the multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square.
- Verona: During an exploration of Verona, see Juliet's balcony in the courtyard of a Renaissance villa.
- Bologna: View Bologna's famed Kissing Towers and enjoy some time at leisure in this historic university city.
- Assisi: With a Local Specialist, find out why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered to be one of the crowning artisitic achievements of 13th-century Europe.
- Tivoli: Join a Local Specialist on a sightseeing tour of Tivoli and the gardens of Villa d'Este.
- Venice: Learn about the history and ancient skill of Venetian glassblowing, playing your role in ensuring the survival of this traditional craft through your visit.
- VIP Admission to the Vatican Museums
- Explore Rome, Lucca, Cinque Terre, Florence and Assisi with a Local Specialist
- Discover Pisa, San Gimignano, Verona and Venice
- Visit St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, a glassblowing factory in Venice, the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi and Villa d'Este Gardens in Tivoli
- View the ancient sites of Rome, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Santa Croce Basilica and Duomo in Florence, Juliet's Balcony in Verona, St. Mark's Basilica in Venice and the Kissing Towers of Bologna
- See the marble quarries of Carrara
- Scenic Cruise to Cinque Terre and by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice
- Assisi: Built to welcome pilgrims visiting Assisi, Hotel Cenacolo is a fully renovated old Franciscan monastery in nearby Santa Maria degli Angeli.
Best of Alaska

- Experience the rugged scenery of Alaska by land from the most populous city of Anchorage, through quaint towns like Palmer, all the way to the untouched back country.
- Head on an Alaskan safari for a unique chance to see moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves in their natural habitat in Denali National Park.
- Witness the land mammals of Denali before getting up close to sea otters, puffins and humpback whales on a boat trip among glaciers in Valdez.
- Discover Seward, one of Alaska's oldest and most scenic communities, which offers a bustling harbour, quaint shops and galleries, and is a great base from which to explore Kenai Fjords National Park.
- Sit back and take in stunning views along the dramatic coastlines of the Turnagain Arm from Seward to Anchorage, while someone else does the driving.
America's Great Desert National Parks (Phoenix)
- Palm Springs: Visit the Naked Dates Organic Date Farm in the Bard Valley. On arrival, guests will be treated to a date farm tour. The farm tour give guests a first-hand and in-depth look at what it takes to grow and harvest this delicious fruit. Our guests will receive not only an education on date farming, but a much better appreciation for the dedication and hard work it takes to get the dates from the farm to our customer's kitchen tables. Guests will be hosted by owners Kase Limmeroth and Misty Mastin, and special guest Leslie McClendon from Visit Yuma tourism board.
- Las Vegas: Get a glimpse of Las Vegas from the sky as you hop on the High Roller, North America's tallest observation wheel standing 550 feet tall. The 30-minute ride offers breathtaking, 360-degree views of the glittering lights and neon of the Strip below.
- Red Rock Canyon: Admire the towering red cliffs and sandstone peaks of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
- Death Valley: You’ll truly feel the solitude and vastness of Death Valley today as you head out on a guided tour of the park’s most famous sites. You’ll discover the unique geological features of Death Valley, a land of sand dunes and volcanic craters, intriguing weather-patterns, and the highest-recorded temperatures in the United States.
- Los Angeles: Calico is an old West mining town that has been around since 1881 and was abandoned in the mid-1890s after silver lost its value. The town that once gave miners a good living lost its hustle and became a “ghost town.” Walter Knott purchased Calico in the 1950’s architecturally restoring all but the five original buildings to look as they did in the 1880’s. Calico received State Historical Landmark 782 and in 2005 was proclaimed by then Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to be California’s Silver Rush Ghost Town.
- Palm Springs: Enjoy a celebrity and lifestyle tour of Palm Springs shedding light on the city's unique mid-century architecture, featuring an amazing collection of custom homes.
- Palm Springs: Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway along cliffs of Chino Canyon right to the top of the mountain. Pause to enjoy the fantastic views of the valley below.
- Palm Springs: Welcome to the first operating wind farm in Southern California! The Palm Springs Windmill Tours take you on a journey in which you will learn about wind energy, how wind turbines work and the history of the wind farm. Your expert guide describes the inner workings of wind turbines and their contributions to our energy grid. From the novice participant to engineer-types, everyone will leave the tour with a better understanding of how this renewable energy is fast becoming part of our energy solution.
- Joshua Tree National Park: Visit Joshua Tree National Park, which shares the name of the iconic desert plant. The twisted branches and jagged leaves of the Joshua Tree is like something out of a fairy tale. Learn how two distinct ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado deserts come together in Joshua Tree. Many animals, such as the desert tortoise, the jackrabbit and the desert bighorn sheep, call this vast wilderness home. With a keen eye, perhaps spot some yourself.
- Yuma: Visit The Yuma Territorial Prison, a living museum of the Old West with structures over a century old, you will be transported to the past. Now one of the territory’s most recognizable historic landmarks.
- Saguaro National Park: Celebrate the symbol of America’s west at Saguaro National Park. Learn how this national park strives to protect the giant saguaro, America's largest species of cacti.
- Tucson: Take a walking tour of Mission Garden, a living agricultural museum of Sonoran Desert-adapted heritage fruit trees, traditional local heirloom crops and edible native plants. Mission Garden is the birthplace of Tucson, where archaeologists have documented 4,100 years of continuous cultivation. You'll discover some of the over a dozen distinct multi-cultural, ethno-agricultural heritage plots, each representing one of the many ethnic groups that farmed the Tucson Basin over the last four millennia as you learn about Tucson’s history and gardening in the Sonoran Desert. End at the Garden Shop where you’ll be treated to a tasting of seasonal fruit (or edible plant, or vegetable).
- Visit Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Coachella Valley Yuma Territorial Prison and Calico Ghost Town and Palm Springs Windmill Energy Farm
- Explore Palm Springs and Tucson
- Discover some of the desert National Parks of the US including Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree National Park and Saguaro National Park
- See Las Vegas from above from the Highroller
Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords
- Bergen: Enjoy a Be My Guest dinner with the fifth-generation Øvre-Eide family on their livestock farm in Norway, which has been a working farm since the 1500s.
- Lom: In Lom you'll have an opportunity to visit Lomskyrkja, one of the biggest and most beautiful stave churches in Norway, dating back to the 12th century.
- Flam: Take a ride on one of the most exciting train journeys in the world, past mountains and waterfalls through the scenic Norwegian countryside to Flåm.
- Stockholm: With your Local Specialist, visit Gamla Stan to see the cathedral where Swedish kings have been coronated and wander the narrow streets of the Old Town.
- Oslo: With your Local Specialist, see Akershus Castle, Oslo Harbour and the Royal Palace.
- Lillehammer: Travel through the legendary Gudbrandsdalen and admire the dramatic geography of the valley.
- Geiranger: Fjords, lakes and forests create a picturesque setting for your travels to Geiranger.
- Bergen: Explore this Wooden City led by your Travel Director and hear about the seafaring traditions of this beautiful harbourside town.
- Stavanger: Admire the raw Norwegian landscape as your travels continue from the port of Kristiansand to Stavanger, one of the country's oldest settlements.
- Odense: Admire the fairytale charm of historic Odense, birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen.
- Copenhagen: With your Local Specialist, view Christiansborg Palace and the cathedral where the Crown Prince of Denmark married Princess Mary. You'll also see Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, the Renaissance Stock Exchange and the unusual Rundertaarn, which is the oldest functioning Observatory in Europe.
- Copenhagen: Join an exclusive experience at Amager Faelled, a small neighbourhood in Copenhagen, led by a community member. Take a stroll through the small nature reserve threatened by urban development, hear stories of life in the neighbourhood and enjoy unparalleled views over the city. This experience advances United Nations Global Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. The organisation is actively working to protect access to green spaces in an area threatened by urbanisation and new building sites. The construction plans on this nature reserve are threatening the breeding sites of over nine vulnerable bird species.
- Explore Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm with a Local Specialist
- Discover Odense, Stavanger, Bergen, Sognefjord, Geirangerfjord and Lillehammer
- Visit the Stave Church in Lom, Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo and Stockholm's City Hall
- View the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen and Haakon's Hall in Bergen
- See Hamar Olympic ice arena and Oslo's Royal Palace
- Scenic Train Ride through the Norwegian countryside to Flåm
- Geiranger: Stay right at the edge of Geirangerfjord at the Havila Geiranger hotel, the spectacular jewel in the crown of the Norwegian fjords and one of the most beautifully located hotels in the world.
- Sognefjord: Step into nature at Sognefjord Hotel, located on a peninsula stretching out into the magnificent Sognefjord, and soak up the breath-taking lake water views.
- Randers: Hotel Randers is one of the oldest hotels in the area, with its original artwork and VIP-rich guestbook.
Best of the Canyonlands
- Grand Canyon National Park: Meet a geologist at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to learn about how this natural marvel was formed and all the different layers that make up the Colorado Plateau.
- Monument Valley: Journey through the barren beauty of the desert to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park where you will board off-road open-air vehicles to explore the famous 17-mile loop of Monument Valley with your Navajo guide. View many of the famous monuments including The East and West Mittens viewpoint, John Ford’s Point & Three Sisters viewpoint, the Totem Pole viewpoint, Artist’s Point, and the North Window viewpoints - the backdrop for many western Hollywood hits, including Stagecoach and Fort Apache.
- Vail: Vail is one of Colorado's great playgrounds. While the winter attracts the ski crows, the summer draws in guests to the European-style Vail Village. Surrounded by towering peaks the pedestrian village offers a unique mix of shops, restaurants, pubs, and cafes. The locals take pride in their friendliness and making sure that Vail has a cosmopolitan feel while at the same time remaining unprentious.
- Moab: Enjoy small town hospitality with incredible red rock landscapes with a visit to Moab.
- Arches National Park: Visit Arches National Park, housing the greatest concentration of natural arches in the world. Some 6,000 natural sandstone arches can be found within the boundaries of the national park.
- Canyonlands National Park: It's on to Canyonlands National Park for a drive onto the Island in the Sky - a mesa resting 1,000 feet (305 meters) above the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views over the dramatic sandstone formations.
- Mesa Verde National Park: Admire the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people, carved out of the sandstone of the canyon walls, at the UNESCO-listed Mesa Verde National Park. Several hundred of these dwellings, in addition to thousands of known archaeological sites, are preserved in this protected area and you'll have an opportunity to see several during your visit to the park, as you ride along the Mesa Top Loop, and Cliff Palace Loop, where you can see the magnificent Cliff Palace.
- Cameron: Explore the historic Cameron Trading Post, founded over one hundred years ago. Our visit helps support the Navajo who live in the area and sell their goods, such as Navajo jewelry, baskets, rugs, kachinas, pottery and artwork.
- Las Vegas: Go sightseeing in the largest city in Nevada and one of the world's greatest resort cities, Las Vegas.
- Monument Valley: Travel to Monument Valley for a highly enjoyable cookout lunch with members of the Navajo Nation. You’ll take off-road vehicles to the cookout site where you’ll enjoy a delicious steak and chicken dinner with a chance to try traditional Navajo tacos and fry-bread.
- Grand Canyon: Travel to Desert View and bask in the views of the Grand Canyon and the iconic watchtower decorated with its Hopi artist murals. Make your way to an Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage site where members share their stories, family histories and provide cultural demonstrations such as carpet weaving and traditional song and dance performances. Our visit and donation provide a continuous source of seed funding for the heritage site while allowing guests to engage directly with Indigenous community members.
- Discover the Grand Canyon with Tim, a Local Specialist and Geologist
- Visit Vail, Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab, the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon National Park, Las Vegas
- See Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
- Scenic Drive along Desert View Drive and Route 66
California's Great National Parks
- Fresno: Visit McKellar Farm for an insider experience with farmer Bob McKellar. Bob will take you on a private, tractor pulled wagon tour of the farm followed by a fascinating Q and A session. Cap off your visit with a farm-to-table lunch, where you will learn how the farm was started by Bob’s family members in 1927 and has grown a variety of produce, including Thompson grapes, olives, oranges, and mandarins.
- Sequoia National Park: Immerse yourself in the pioneer history of the Old West, joining a living-history reenactor and Local Specialist for a barbecue lunch and stories of early life in the mountains.
- Las Vegas: Get a glimpse of Las Vegas from the sky as you hop on the High Roller, North America's tallest observation wheel standing 550 feet tall. The 30-minute ride offers breathtaking, 360-degree views of the glittering lights and neon of the Strip below.
- Death Valley: You’ll truly feel the solitude and vastness of Death Valley today as you head out on a guided tour of the park’s most famous sites. You’ll discover the unique geological features of Death Valley, a land of sand dunes and volcanic craters, intriguing weather-patterns, and the highest-recorded temperatures in the United States.
- Mammoth Lakes: Ascend Mammoth Mountain by gondola and enjoy the stunning views over a tasty breakfast.
- Yosemite National Park: Meet a climber and naturalist that will delve into the dynamic history of climbing in Yosemite. Enjoy storytelling, photographs, see the old and new climbing gear, as well as ask questions about how they help improve trails, restore habitat, protect wildlife, and inspire the next generation of nature-lovers, and more.
- Sequoia National Park: Meet your Local Specialist and enjoy stories and the latest astronomical news under one of California's most brilliant skies. The Milky Way galaxy spills out across the broad Sequoia sky, an explosion of stars, planets and infinite questions. Spend the hour touring constellations, galaxies, planets, and the history of human space and exploration.
- Visit Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Mammoth Lakes, Death Valley National Park, Giant Forest Museum, McKellar Family Farms
- View Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park, General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon National Park, General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park
- See El Capitain, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls
- Scenic Drive Along Tioga Pass
- Tickets Included Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola
- Yosemite National Park: Stay at the Yosemite Valley Lodge located close to Yosemite Falls in the middle of the national park.
- Sequoia National Park: The Wuksachi Lodge in the heart of Sequoia National Park surrounded by forest and soaring Sierra peaks.
Classic South America (Small Groups)

- Santiago: Meet a Local Expert for an in-depth city exploration. Start out at the heart of the city, seeing the Chilean University, San Francisco Church and the Santa Lucia Hill. Then visit the Plaza de Armas and the cathedral. Cross the Mapocho river to the bohemian Bellavista district on the way to San Cristobal Hill, where you will have the best views of Santiago and the Andes Mountains.
- Santiago: Visit Kingston Family Winery, a small boutique winery located in Casablanca Valley for an introduction to and tasting of their exquisite wines.
- Valparaiso: From Santiago, head west towards Valparaíso. Pass by the main square where you can see the monument honoring the 1879 Naval Battle of Iquique. Declared a World Heritage by UNESCO, Valparaíso offers unique ocean landscapes with colorful neighborhoods, picturesque cobblestone streets, and old cable cars.
- Buenos Aires: Take a tour of this historical and prestigious opera house and explore the Main Hall, Foyer, Bustos Gallery and the Golden Hall.
- Iguassu Falls: Head to the Argentinean side of Iguassu Falls and view the unfathomable Devil's Throat.
- Iguassu Falls: Join a local expert for a spectacular walk past thundering curtains of water and misty rainbows on the Brazilian side of the falls. Explore the base of the falls and see the impressive panoramic view of San Martin Island.
- Iguassu Falls: See several native birds in their natural habitat. One of the largest bird parks in Latin America, The Bird Park is an integrated conservation center for birds of the Atlantic Forest and his home to 120 species of birds.
- Rio de Janeiro: Experience sightseeing with a Local Expert and a cable car journey to the lofty heights of Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Rio de Janeiro: Visit this beautiful library that was built in the heart of Rio by the Portuguese monarchy.
- Rio de Janeiro: Visit the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, one of the most important cultural centers in the country. Admire the Art Deco design by Francisco Joaquim Bethencourt da Silva.
- Rio de Janeiro: Take a train ride up Corcovado Hill through the Tijuca National Forest to the open arms of Christ the Redeemer and magnificent views over the legendary bay.
- Optional - Buenos Aires: Meet the local gauchos and learn about the traditions of these South American Cowboys on a horseback ride.
- Optional - Buenos Aires: Explore the beautiful ranch on a leisurely walk, learning all about the gaucho lifestyle.
- Ipanema: Meet Local Expert Cecelo, a local guitarist, music aficionado, and studio owner from Ipanema. Join him on a walking tour of Ipanema, the birthplace of Bossa Nova in the 1950s. Enjoy the sounds and sights of the place that inspired this new genre of samba music. After your tour, head back to your hotel where Cecelo will play you some Bossa Nova classics over a caipirinha cocktail.
National Park Wonders (Black Hills Pow Wow, Jackson)
- Sheridan: Learn about the early 20th-century history of the old town of Sheridan with an exclusive dinner at PO News and Flagstaff Café.
- Black Hills: Contribute to the preservation of the heritage of Native Americans during a visit to the Crazy Horse Memorial. This iconic monument represents the Oglala Lakota warrior 'Crazy Horse' on land considered sacred, in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
- Sheridan: Admire Devils Tower, a geological monolith that seems to rise up out of the prairie. You’ll be able to see why Devils Tower is considered sacred to local Native American tribes, as it is totally unique and contrasts with the plains around it. The first National Monument in the USA (1906) the tower stands some 867-feet from summit to base. Native American's often refer to the monument as Bear Lodge Butte.
- Cody: You'll get a glimpse into the "Spirit of the West" at the Buffalo Bill Center for the West museum complex. As you wonder through this huge set of exhibits you'll feel like you've been transported back to a time of cowboys and cowgirls, gun-toting lawmen and brave Native American warriors.
- Yellowstone National Park: Without a doubt a bucket list destination for many travelers - welcome to Yellowstone National Park. Established as America's first National Park by President Grant in 1872 Yellowstone is famous for it's hot springs, bubbling mud pots, vast canyons and lush forests as far as the eye can see.
- Grand Teton National Park: See Grand Teton National park with the shimmering peaks of the Teton range rising up above alpine forests and lakes. The park is famous for it's 40-mile long Teton Mountain Range including the major peaks of that particular range.
- Jackson: The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram in Teton Village is the gateway to your national park experience. Located one mile from the entrance to Grand Teton National Park, the tram takes passengers from the valley to the mountain summits and provides the easiest way to stand at the top of the Teton Range. The Aerial Tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort rises 4,139 vertical feet to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain. Take in 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole, the Snake River Valley, Grand Teton National Park and the staggering summit of the Grand.
- Black Hills: Enjoy an evening at the Black Hills Pow Wow, one of the premier American Indian cultural events in the United States, attracting hundreds of dancers, singers, artisans and several thousand spectators.
- Discover Jackson
- Visit the towering peaks of Grand Teton National Park, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Devils Tower National Monument, the Black Hills of South Dakota
- View Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore
- Explore Yellowstone National Park
Spectacular Canadian Rockies (Goldleaf)
- Vancouver: Visit Maan Farms for an immersive and delicious peek at local farming. Learn how Maan Farms began producing cole crops, but soon shifted to growing the strawberries, raspberries and blueberries for which they became famous. From one small berry stand, Maan Farms has grown into a place with something for everyone. Enjoy a local Indian lunch with an experience on the farm (seasonal) ranging from U-pick during berry season, behind the scenes winery tour or fall pumpkin patch exploration.
- Vancouver: Embark on a morning tour of Vancouver's historic neighbourhoods with your Travel Director. Savour the smells of freshly steamed Siopao in Chinatown and admire the Victorian Facades of Gastown as you make your way to the leafy sanctuary of Stanley Park to view First Nations totem poles.
- Victoria: Enjoy some sightseeing around Victoria and bask in some of its wonderful sights. Take a leisurely stroll along the Inner Harbour where you will have the chance to watch street buskers perform. Take a look at the Parliament Buildings erected in 1897 with its beautiful orderly gardens. Or venture to Victoria's unique shopping areas in Market Square.
- Victoria: This lush and expansive garden is a must-see oasis, which has been growing in Victoria, BC for over 100 years.
- Mount Robson: Take a visit to one of the world's crown jewels at Mount Robson and admire one of the finest views in the Rocky Mountains.
- Jasper: Take time to enjoy the wonders of Jasper National Park. Hop on mountain bikes and travel along the park's network of trails or embark on a hike through river-cut canyons. You could also try out white water rafting along routes taken by early explorers.
- Jasper: Enjoy a guided walk around Maligne Canyon. Admire this incredible natural landmark as you cross six bridges built across various points of this breath-taking canyon.
- Maligne Lake: Enjoy a scenic cruise around Maligne Lake where you'll discover world-famous Spirit Island and get great photo opportunities with beautiful mountain views.
- Icefields Parkway: Drive on one of the most scenic drives in North America through mountains, glaciers and lakes on the Icefields Parkway.
- Athabasca Glacier: Enjoy the picturesque waterfall on your visit to Athabasca Falls.
- Columbia Icefield: Explore nature on the Columbia Icefield Adventure. Travel on a massive Ice Explorer and view one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world, the Athabathsca Glacier.
- Lake Louise: See the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier with its scenic mountain backdrop.
- Banff: Take a guided tour around Banff and discover the big sites as well as a few local spots.
- Vancouver: Discover the diverse living cultures of the Northwest Coast at The Bill Reid Gallery, the only public Gallery in Canada dedicated to contemporary Indigenous Northwest Coast Art. Established by the Bill Reid Foundation in 2008 to celebrate the Haida master artist, Bill Reid (1920 - 1998), the Gallery honors him with an in-house collection, special exhibitions and programs that build bridges between Indigenous and settler populations. Learn about Reid’s work as an acclaimed master goldsmith, carver, sculptor, writer, broadcaster, mentor and community activist while viewing his art.
- Explore Vancouver, Victoria, Jasper National Park, Banff National Park, Columbia Icefield Adventure
- Visit Mt Robson Visitor Center, Maligne Canyon during a guided walk
- View Lake Louise, Stanley Park Totem Poles, Athabasca Falls, Mount Robson, Bow Falls & Surprise Corner
- Scenic Drive along Icefields Parkway
- Kamloops: In Kamloops, enjoy a Stays With Stories experience at The South Thompson Inn. Once home to a thoroughbred racing stable, this riverfront property still has the original brick manor and carriage houses.
European Whirl (Paris, Base)
- Florence: Eight generations of history with plenty of stories to tell. Enjoy a traditional Be My Guest lunch with the Landi family at their home near Florence, set within a garden of oak trees against the backdrop of Tuscan vineyards and olive groves.
- Amsterdam: Led by your Travel Director, wander the city to see the floating flower market, Dam Square and the Royal Palace.
- Rhineland: Cruise beneath the semi-ruined castles and terraced vineyards. Sleepy villages slip by as you saunter upstream to the Lorelei Rock where the enchantress lured sailors to their doom.
- Heidelberg: Explore one of Germany's most enchanting cities during an orientation with your Travel Director.
- Munich: During your orientation of the city with your Travel Director, see Feldherrnhalle in the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, the English Garden, the Hofbräuhaus, St. Peter's Church and the famous Marienplatz.
- Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town and learn about its history with your Travel Director.
- Vatican: Visit Vatican City and tour St. Peter's Basilica with a Local Specialist. Witness the early genius of Michelangelo as you take in the Pietà.
- Tuscany: View the stunning landscape of Tuscany on your drive today.
- Florence: Join a Local Specialist to view the multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square.
- Switzerland: Marvel at the Alpine landscape as you drive past breathtakingly beautiful mountains and valleys.
- Lucerne: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Lion Monument, Old Town Hall and Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe.
- Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.
- Venice: Learn about the history and ancient skill of Venetian glassblowing, playing your role in ensuring the survival of this traditional craft through your visit.
- Explore London, Rome, Florence and Paris with a Local Specialist
- Discover Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Munich, Innsbruck, Venice and Lucerne
- Visit a glassblowing factory in Venice and St. Peter's Basilica in Rome
- View the canals in Amsterdam, the Golden Roof in Innsbruck, St. Mark's Square in Venice, the ancient sites in Rome, the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne and the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris
- See the Lorelei Rock and the vineyards of Burgundy
- Scenic Cruise along the canals of Amsterdam, the Rhine River and by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice
Best of Germany and Austria
- Rhineland: In a medieval castle high above the Rhine River Valley, you'll enjoy an exclusive Be My Guest lunch and be transported back to a time of kings and knights.
- Frankfurt: Spend the day exploring the sights of Frankfurt.
- Rhineland: Cruise beneath the semi-ruined castles and terraced vineyards. Sleepy villages slip by as you saunter upstream to the Lorelei Rock where the enchantress lured sailors to their doom.
- Cologne Cathedral: The towering Cathedral of Cologne is an impressive introduction to this riverside city.
- Berlin: During a sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist, admire Berlin landmarks like the Tiergarten and the neo- Renaissance Reichstag.
- Berlin: Take in panoramic views of the city from the observation platform of the Berlin TV Tower.
- Wurzburg: See the Residenz Palace as you explore the old town with your Travel Director. Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Visit the medieval center of Rothenburg.
- Munich: During your orientation of the city with your Travel Director, see Feldherrnhalle in the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, the English Garden, the Hofbräuhaus, St. Peter's Church and the famous Marienplatz.
- Munich: Admire the magical countryside at the Neuschwanstein Castle.
- Salzburg: Join your Local Specialist to visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and Residence Square - both locations used in 'The Sound of Music.' See the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.
- Melk: Take in the beautiful landscapes of Wachau Valley.
- Vienna: Walk through the first district, Inner Stadt, as your Local Specialist reveals the historic core of the city. Tour the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
- Explore Berlin, Salzburg and Vienna with a Local Specialist
- Discover Frankfurt, Cologne, Rothenburg, Munich and Innsbruck
- Visit the Berlin TV Tower, Neuschwanstein Castle and Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Innsbruck
- View Cologne Cathedral, the Golden Roof in Innsbruck, Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg, Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna
- See the Lorelei Rock, the Marienberg Fortress and the Prince-Bishops' residence in Würzburg and Melk Abbey
- Scenic Cruise along the Rhine River
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Step into 15th-century Germany at the Prinzhotel, built in the traditional half-timbered style and ideally located within the city's famous fortified town walls.
- Munich: The Arabella Sheraton Munich once saw Led Zeppelin, Iggy Pop, Freddie Mercury and other musical legends belt out record breaking tunes in the then-hotel basement recording studio.
- Vienna: Step into this unique establishment on the banks of the Danube and discover a building that has undergone a makeover from its previous life as a grain silo since the early 1900s.
Ultimate Italy (Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Sm ...

- Tuscany: If you are travelling on a Founder's Collection departure, on Day 6 you are invited to an exclusive lunch and wine tasting with Marchese Mazzei at his centuries-old Tuscan estate. This experience will replace the lunch and wine tasting at the Guardastelle Estate.
- Rome: Stroll around the Roman Forum, learning more about the ancient ruins of government buildings while enjoying the panoramic views over the Eternal City. Then, skip the queues to view the iconic Colosseum and hear the remarkable history of the largest amphitheater in the ancient world.
- Rome: Every side street has something to offer, as you’ll see on a guided exploration of the hidden sites of Rome with your knowledgeable Local Expert. Get away from the crowds and discover more culture and art in this living masterpiece.
- Pompeii: Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the 1st century, when a volcanic eruption engulfed the streets. Hear more about the lavish lives the locals lived and visit well-preserved ruins of baths and local shops.
- Capri: Arrive in style for your overnight stay as the jet-set do, travelling to your luxurious Capri hotel by open-top taxi. Don’t forget your headscarf or hat and sunglasses so passersby can speculate about the visiting VIP.
- Capri: Embark on a private cruise that takes you around the dramatic coast of Capri to seek out hidden coves and grottos that few get to see. The White Grotto is a dazzling sight with the stalactites that dangle over its entrance.
- Perugia: Meet Marta, fourth-generation weaver and recipient of a TreadRight Foundation grant at Laboratorio Giuditta Brozzetti. Discover how she and her weavers are preserving the medieval Umbrian tradition of loom-weaving at their artisanal workshop and sharing their own piece of a colourful history. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience Marta and her students help to safeguard the unique patterns while contributing to the protection of Umbria’s cultural heritage. The workshop is owned by women and actively empowers women and girls through its education and training programs.
- San Gimignano: Visit this small hillside city and find out why it's called the 'medieval Manhattan of Italy'. Enter the exquisite Porto San Giovanni, the main city gate, that's stood the test of time since the 13th century. Explore well-preserved streets and beautiful ceramic stores.
- Pisa: Accompanied by your Local Expert, marvel at the gravity-defying Leaning Tower of Pisa and see the Duomo and baptistery.
- Cinque Terre: Experience some of the most awe-inspiring coastal scenery on earth at the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre. Join your Local Expert and discover charming Manarola, a picturesque fishing village, before travelling by train to the historic and colourful resort town of Rapallo.
- Venice: Take a private water taxi along the Grand Canal to make an elegant arrival at your luxurious hotel, which sits right by the water’s edge. Soak up the romance of this enchanting city as you experience a relaxing journey on the water.
- Venice: Join your Local Expert for an enriching exploration of the many wondrous sights of Venice. Admire St. Mark’s Basilica, a brilliant example of Italo-Byzantine architecture, and feel the whispers from the Bridge of Sighs, a historic passageway to the Doge's Palace.
- Venice: The bygone glamour of luxury travels breathes within the vintage carriages of the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. It is, quite simply, the most storied set of carriages in the world transporting you to another world entirely. From the art deco flourishes to the masterful marquetry the train epitomises the opulence and elegance of the Golden Age of travel.
- Optional - Assisi: Join a Local Expert for a guided visit to the imposing Basilica of St. Francis.
- Optional - Assisi: Treat your palate as you sample Umbrian specialities at a tasting experience.
- Optional - Florence: Join an art historian to immerse yourself in Renaissance Florence. Visit the Accademia Museum and marvel at the statue of David, a Michelangelo masterpiece. See the impressive trio of the Duomo, Bell Tower and Baptistery before arriving to Piazza della Signoria, traditionally the political heart of the city.
- Optional - Florence: Join a local foodie and get to know Florence one bite at a time on your walking tour. Learn about Florentine speciliaties, visit the lively Mercato Centrale and sample a selection of gourmet highlights.
- Vatican: Enter the Vatican Museums and visit the Sistine Chapel on a tour with your Local Expert. Be awed by the frescoes that adorn the walls and roof, painted by masters such as Michelangelo, Botticelli and Ghirlandaio.
- Venice: Triumphantly enter the Doge's Palace as a guardian permits only you and your travelling companions to enter for an after-hours tour. Discover the art, culture and history of the Venetian Republic in a small, intimate group.
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Top Cultural Attractions & Experiences
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