AFRICA

MADAGASCAR EXPERIENCE - july 6 to july 26/2019

Photo by Martin Callum

The country of Madagascar or Mada as the locals fondly call it, is the fourth largest island in the world. It has been separated from mainland Africa for millions of years and encompasses an ecosystem found nowhere else on earth; the sheer quantity of endemic flora and fauna is staggering.  Mada has diverse forests, white sandy beaches, emerald oceans, bizarre limestone formations, but most importantly, an abundance of welcoming, friendly locals throughout the country.  We will search for some of the 100+ species of lemur throughout the national parks protecting their natural habitats, attempt to find strange insects like the long, articulated-neck giraffe weevil, walk night safaris in hopes of spotting well camouflaged chameleons, and view ancient baobab trees that age back 1000 years and almost appear to be growing upside-down.  Unfortunately, times are changing in Madagascar and the environment is suffering.  Forests are being cut back at an alarming rate as the population continues to rise, and the survival of Madagascar’s diverse species is threatened by the human race. Now is the time to visit Madagascar before more of its beauty, habitat and endemic species are lost forever.  With excessively long town names like Ambatofinandrahana and Ambohimahamasina, Mada is a country like no other.  Your experience here will be a rewarding adventure, one you will crave again.

$4900 CAD or $3800 USD plus applicable taxes

Based on double occupancy.   Single supplement also available for additional cost.

Maximum group size 16.

21 DAY ITINERARY:

Day 1 – ANTANANARIVO – If you arrive early, experience a few highlights of the capital on your own.  Suggestions include the Rova (the Queen's Palace), Andafiavaratra Palace (the Prime Minister's Palace) or even Ambohimanga on the outskirts of the city - a Unesco World Heritage listed royal settlement on a hill.  At our first planned activity, get to know your fellow travelers at an introductory meeting followed by an optional dinner.   Accommodation - Hotel Sakamanga or similar

Day 2 – ANDASIBE – A morning departure heading East of the capital to Andasibe National park.  Enjoy scenic stops along the drive and get your first taste of the Malagasy people and landscape.  Enjoy and photograph some interesting creatures at Pereyras exotic park.  Participate in an optional guided night walk for your first chance to see lemurs.   Accommodation - Feon'ny Ala or similar

Day 3 – ANDASIBE – Begin the day with breakfast while listening to the sounds of the rainforest.  Explore Andasibe National park on foot with a guided day walk, searching for the largest of all lemurs - the indri.  You can hear the indri's call from miles away, but finding them will take a bit of effort.  In addition to the indri, the park is home to 10 other lemur species and many chameleons and reptiles.  Get up close and personal with some lemurs at the Vakona Forest Lodge that are rescued and nursed back to health on an island.  Finish the day with a walk through the local town of Perinet, meeting some of the friendly locals.  Accommodation - Feon'ny Ala or similar

Day 4 – ANTSIRABE – Today we depart Andasibe and head back towards Antananarivo before continuing on to the colonial town of Antsirabe.  Enjoy the scenery of local villages and rice paddies along the route.  There are plenty of opportunities for photographs and visits to some local artisans along the way.  An afternoon stop in the town of Ambatolampy will give an insight into some of the local manufacturing techniques.  Antsirabe is known for its cooler climate and volcanic crater lakes, and this is our destination for the evening.  Accommodation - Hotel H1 Antsirabe or similar

Day 5 – RANOMAFANA - Enjoy some free time in the morning to see some of the sights of Antsirabe.  In the late morning, we begin our drive towards Ranomafana National Park.  Along the journey, we will stop for lunch in the well known artisanal town of Ambositra.  We will get a chance to see the artisans at work, and check out their creations.  A curvy, scenic drive awaits to Ranomafana where we will arrive for dinner.  There is a chance to do an optional night walk, looking for chameleons, geckos and maybe the smallest of lemurs - the mouse lemur.  Accommodation - Chez Gaspard or similar

Day 6 – AMBALAVAO – Explore the forest in Ranomafana National Park on a guided walk.  Ranomafana, meaning 'hot water' is also one of the six parks that comprise the 'Rainforests of Antsinanana' which is Unesco World Heritage listed. Search for bamboo lemurs, sifakas, dwarf lemurs and sportive lemurs - all found in this park.  After lunch we depart on a short journey to Fianarantsoa where we find some scenic views high on the hillside in the old city.  Take a stroll through the historic old centre before driving to rural Ambalavao, a town known for it’s paper making, and our destination for the next two nights.    Accommodation - Aux Bougainvillees or similar

Day 7 – AMBALAVAO – Take a day trip to explore the amazing mountains around Ambalavao.  The stunning Andringitra National park has been described as 'Yosemite' without the crowds.  These beautiful mountains are home to sport climbers and hikers in search of adventure.  Andringitra is also one of the six 'Rainforests of Antsinanana' and home to the famous ringtail lemur.   Accommodation - Aux Bougainvillees or similar

Day 8 – ISALO – After breakfast in town, our first stop is at Anja Community Reserve.  This Reserve is operated and by the local community and local guides are required.  Anja has the highest population of Maki (ringtail lemurs) in the country and the walk through the reserve forest takes us through huge boulders and interesting rock formations.  You can usually get up close and personal with the maki, as they are quite playful wild animals.  The drive towards Ranohira takes us through some interesting mountain scenery and savannah.  We arrive in Ranohira, the gateway to Isalo National Park, late in the afternoon and prepare for our hike the next morning.  Time permitting, we will visit 'La Fenetre' - a window of rock that creates a beautiful border around the sunset.   Accommodation - Hotel H1 Ranohira Isalo or similar

Day 9 – ISALO – Today, you have the choice of optional hikes in the park.  Depending on your energy level, you can choose to do a more difficult hike, or opt for an easier walk.   Either of these outings will give you a great taste of the Isalo National Park and hiking in the massif.  During the walk, you can take a swim in turquoise water pools in the valleys between the massif, and you might even have some lemurs for company.  These beautiful pools are fed by waterfalls which you can swim under and behind.  Accommodation - Hotel H1 Ranohira Isalo or similar

Day 10 – IFATY – We drive through the South-Western section of Isalo National Park on our way to the coast.  Our first stop is in Ilakaka, a town that has exploded from 40 residents to over 60,000 after a 1998 large discovery of sapphires in the region.  Take a tour of these mines to see the hard labour processes involved in finding these precious stones.  We'll stop for lunch along the drive while continuing on through the desert landscape before arriving on the beach in Ifaty, our destination for the next few nights.  Accommodation - Bamboo Club or similar

Day 11 – IFATY – Today is a free day and there are many optional activities for you to enjoy.  Take a boat out into the Mozambique Channel for some whale watching, fishing, or snorkelling.  Opt for a dugout canoe trip, or quad biking around the region.  See the amazing flora on a guided tour through the Reniala Spiny Forest Reserve, another community run park.  Or just enjoy some relaxing time chilling on the beach.  Accommodation - Bamboo Club or similar

Day 12 – IFATY – Another free day on the white sand beaches of Ifaty.  Choose different options from the previous day, or even take a trip to the bigger town of Toliara.  Accommodation - Bamboo Club or similar

Day 13 – MORONDAVA – Mainly a travel day today where we will drive to Toliara and take a morning flight to Morondava via Antananarivo.  This usually arrives in the afternoon but the Air Madagascar flight schedule can change randomly and without much notice.  You may have some free time to explore the beach town of Morondava upon arrival.   Accommodation - Les Lagon Bleu or similar

Day 14 – TSINGY DE BEMARAHA – Today we leave early in our 4x4 and get to experience sunrise the Avenue of the Baobabs.  This scene can be a surreal sight, as the floral giants come to life with different colours.   We continue along a rather dusty and bumpy road to the River Tsiribihina where we take an interesting ferry ride downriver.   Lunch is taken in the busy little town of Belo-sur Tsiribihina before continuing our drive to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park at Bekopaka.  The drive takes us through some dry regions dotted with huge baobab trees and interesting locals before another ferry across the Manambolo River.  Relax by the pool after a long day, and prepare for our adventures in the park tomorrow.  Accommodation - L'Orchidee de Bemaraha or similar

Day 15 – TSINGY DE BEMARAHA – On our first of two days in the park, we take a dugout canoe trip along the Manambolo River.  There are interesting flora along the steep canyon walls, and we tour through some caves.  You might even catch a glimpse of a crocodile.  We hop out of the canoe on our outgoing journey and climb up the canyon to visit the Little Tsingy.  This is a great introduction into the rock formations in the area, and an interesting and easier walk than the Greater Tsingy.  It's nice to have your pack lunch in the midst of these crazy rocks, and we should get glimpses of different lemurs in the area.  Return to the dugout and we float back to Bekopaka, where you can enjoy some relaxing time by the pool or take a walk into the little village and meet some of the colourful local people.   Accommodation - L'Orchidee de Bemaraha or similar

Day 16 – TSINGY DE BEMARAHA – You have options for walks today in the Greater Tsingy of this Unesco World Heritage listed park.  The longer 6-hour walk is quite strenuous but takes you to all parts of the Tsingy.  You will walk through caves, climb up steep walls, cross suspension bridges and enjoy views over top of the craggy tsingy formations.  The lesser walk still gives you a good taste of the landscape, but is much less strenuous.  Again, we will see some amazing plants and animals along the length of the hike.  Clean up and enjoy a drink by the pool at the end of the day.  Accommodation - L'Orchidee de Bemaraha or similar

Day 17 – MORONDAVA – We take a return trip from Bekopaka to Morondava in the 4x4, on the same route.  You will be well practiced at ferry crossings after two more today and a boat trip down the river.  More views of the baobab forest and a stop at the 'love' baobab during the journey.  Sunset at the surreal Avenue of the Baobabs before arriving in Morondava for two nights.  Accommodation - Les Lagon Bleu or similar

Day 18 – MORONDAVA – You have a free day to enjoy the beach town and coast of Morondava.  Enjoy meals at a beachfront restaurant and beach activities.  Accommodation - Les Lagon Bleu or similar

Day 19 – ANTSIRABE - Journey from the coast back to the highlands and Antisirabe passing baobab trees and taxi brousse. We pass through hilly scenery and follow the Tsiribihina River at times.  We stop in Miandrivazo for lunch before continuing through small towns before arriving in the cooler climate of Antsirabe.  Accommodation - Hotel H1 Antsirabe or similar

Day 20 - ANTSIRABE – A free day to explore the charming colonial town.  Tour some of the colonial buildings like the Hotel Des Thermes, Gare d'Antsirabe and the cathedral.  Visit the market, or rent a bike and explore the local countryside.  There are some interesting volcanic lakes to visit between some of the local villages including Lac Tritriva and Lac Andraikiba.  You will be sure to have some great local interactions throughout the day.  Celebrate with a group dinner on our last evening together.  Accommodation - Hotel H1 Antsirabe or similar

Day 21 - ANTANANARIVO – We will depart in the morning on our journey back to Antananarivo in time for afternoon flights.  Or those with extra time can tour around the capital.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• VIEW THE AVENUE OF THE BAOBABS AT SUNRISE AND SUNSET

• HIKE AMONGST RING TAIL LEMURS

• LISTEN FOR THE DISTINCTIVE CALL OF THE INDRI, THE LARGEST OF THE MANY SPECIES OF LEMUR

• EXPLORE THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LISTED GREATER TSINGY FORMATIONS OF BEMARAHA

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• 20 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION AT HOTELS/GUESTHOUSES (UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED)

• SOME MEALS ARE INCLUDED BUT GENERALLY MEAL CHOICES AND LOCATIONS ARE OPTIONAL. THIS ALLOWS YOU THE GREATEST FLEXIBILITY FOR PREFERENCE AND BUDGET

• TRANSPORTATION BETWEEN DESTINATIONS ON TRIP AND TO/FROM INCLUDED ACTIVITIES BY:

  • PRIVATE VEHICLE WITH DRIVER

  • LOCAL TAXI - TAXI BROUSSE

  • POUSSE POUSSE

  • BOAT

  • CANOE

  • INTERNAL FLIGHT FROM TOLIARA TO MORONDAVA

• ENGLISH SPEAKING (WESTERN) GUIDE FOR THE DURATION OF THE TRIP

• PARK FEES AND LOCAL GUIDES

• ACTIVITIES

  • PEYREIRAS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

  • ANDASIBE NATIONAL PARK GUIDED WALK

  • VAKONA PRIVATE RESERVE

  • ANTSIRABE ARTISAN WORKSHOP

  • ANTSIRABE POUSSE POUSSE CITY TOUR

  • SUNRISE AT THE AVENUE OF THE BAOBABS

  • CANOE TRIP ON THE MANAMBOLA RIVER

  • TSINGY DE BEMARAHA - LITTLE TSINGY WALK

  • TSINGY DE BEMARAHA - GREATER TSINGY GUIDED WALK

  • SUNSET AT AVENUE OF THE BAOBABS

  • AMBALAVAO PAPER FACTORY

  • ANJA RESERVE WALK

  • ISALO PARK TOUR

  • ILAKAKA SAPPHIRE MINE

NOT INCLUDED:

• FLIGHTS TO/FROM MADAGASCAR FROM YOUR LOCATION

• TRAVEL INSURANCE(REQUIRED)

• ENTRY VISA (IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO DETERMINE IF YOU NEED A VISA AND WHAT TYPE YOU REQUIRE TO ENTER THE COUNTRY)

• TIPS FOR GUIDES

• ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

ITINERARY DISCLAIMER:

• WHILE IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO MODIFY THE ITINERARY, THERE ARE MANY FACTORS INVOLVED BEYOND OUR CONTROL.  SINCE OUR TRIP WILL BE VISITING AN AREA WHERE THERE IS UNPREDICTABILITY, WE REQUIRE THE TRIP TO BE A LITTLE FLEXIBLE TO CATER TO NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE CHANGES.  ALSO, WE MAY DISCOVER NEW ADVENTURES OR EXPERIENCES THAT WE FEEL ARE BETTER THAN ORIGINALLY PLANNED, SO WE CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE ADDITIONS.  THE ITINERARY IS KEPT BRIEF TO ALLOW SOME FLEXIBILITY IN OUR TRIP.  WE FEEL THIS IS THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL AND A GREAT WAY TO SHARE EXPERIENCES WITH OUR CLIENTS

VACCINATIONS:

• IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL MEDICAL CLINIC OR LOCAL HEALTH EXPERT PRIOR TO THE TRIP TO DISCUSS WHICH VACCINATIONS YOU NEED FOR YOUR ADVENTURE IN MADAGASCAR (IT MAY BE REQUIRED TO SHOW A YELLOW FEVER CERTIFICATE UPON ENTRY INTO THE COUNTRY)

INDONESIA

BALI EXPERIENCE - oct 26 to nov 9/2019

Welcome to paradise.  Two idyllic islands in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali and Lombok. Although they sit side-by-side, they are very different in culture and experience. Bali is the well-known big brother, with a busy tourism network and popular destinations.  Lombok is it’s laid back, relatively unknown neighbour who is ripe for off-the-beaten-path experiences.

They both offer amazing diverse experiences packed into the relatively small islands.  Towering volcanoes, lush forests and jungle, spectacular rice terraces, and stunning beaches complete with some otherworldly underwater activities.  The small size of both islands allows us to venture into all areas on this tour.  Temples and mosques adorn both islands and the different cultures on each island are very evident in their day-to-day life.  Soak up all the local traditions and interact with the Balinese and Sasak people.  You’ll be glad you did, as those experiences will enrich your journey!

$2450 CAD or $1950 USD plus applicable taxes

Based on double occupancy.   Single supplement also available for additional cost.

Maximum group size 16.

15 DAY ITINERARY:

Day 1 – ULUWATU - If you arrive early, make your way to the Uluwatu area. Find yourself one of the many beautiful beaches and soak up some Balinese rays prior to the start of the trip. Our first planned activity will be a welcome meeting to discuss the details of the trip and for you to meet your fellow travellers. An optional dinner will be planned after the meeting. Accommodation Bukal Sari Villas or similar

Day 2 - ULUWATU - Our first full day involves some time at the beach. Enjoy some sunshine on Melasti beach, surf at Suluban beach, or take a walk on Padang Padang beach. Have lunch at a cafe with amazing views above the beaches and wave breaks. An cultural afternoon visit to the picturesque Uluwatu Temple and then relax with sunset drinks at the famous Rock Bar. A full day of sun and sand. Accommodation Bukal Sari Villas or similar

Day 3 - UBUD – Today we leave Uluwatu and drive to the wellness centre of Bali - Ubud. Ever seen ‘Eat, Pray, Love’? Well, the Bali portion was based on Ubud, and this town doesn’t disappoint. Visit the local market, tour the Ubud palace, peruse art galleries and shops, and have some fun with the primates at the Monkey Forest. Plenty of dinner options and how about an evening massage or spa treatment? Accommodation Tegal Sari or similar

Day 4 – UBUD – You can choose to visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in the morning, followed by an up close and personal interactive visit with the elephants at the Mason Elephant Park. Attend a cultural kecak fire dance in the evening before a night cap in one of the many bars in town. Accommodation Tegal Sari or similar

Day 5 – UBUD - Learn to cook Balinese style at an interactive local cooking class. Or visit Mt Batur volcano and hop on a mountain bike, pedalling your way back down the slopes towards Ubud - a wonderful way to see the countryside, villages and rice terraces. Have dinner amongst the rice paddies. Accommodation Tegal Sari or similar

Day 6 - MUNDUK – On our journey to Munduk we stop for a walk through the Unesco World Heritage Site - Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. A picturesque and colourful hike through Bali’s very impressive terraced rice paddies. Have lunch in a volcano and tour the iconic Lake Danu Bratan Temple -Bali’s iconic picture postcard view. Continue on the calderra and drive down the Northern slopes to Munduk, with views out to the ocean. Accommodation Yoga Homestay or similar

Day 7 - MUNDUK - Wake up in the beautiful hillside scenery of Munduk. Trek through the terraced fields and visit a waterfall, taste some coffee at one of Munduk’s plantations, or visit the local clove farms. Take a drive down the hills to the Northern coast at Lovina. Most of all, enjoy the amazing scenery that Munduk has to offer. Accommodation Yoga Homestay or similar

Day 8 – SIDEMAN – Journey back past Tamblingan Lake and take a trek to, and a swim under Banyumala Twin Falls. Have lunch in the Crater of Mt Batur. Tour Bali’s largest, holiest and most important temple on the slopes of Mount Agung - Besakih Temple. Spend the evening in the sleepy little village of Sideman. Accommodation Sawah Indah Villa or similar

Day 9 – SIDEMAN - Visit the local Pelangi Traditional Weaving factory and the Sadus Tile Factory. We’ll take a drive down to the Blue Lagoon at Padang Bai and visit the old law courts of Kertha Gosa in Semarapura. Watch the sun setting upon the slopes of Mt Agung. Accommodation Sawah Indah Villa or similar

Day 10 – NUSA PENIDA - Travel by fast boat to the beautiful island of Nusa Penida. We’ll take a trip to the stunning Kelingking beach (nicknamed T-Rex) for cliff-top views. Explore the Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong. Accommodation La Roja Budget or similar

Day 11 – NUSA PENIDA – A journey Southwards along the East coast of this idyllic island brings us to Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, and the Molengteng Tree Houses located with the Thousand Island View. On our way back, enter the Goa Giri Putra Cave Temple for an spiritual experience deep inside a cave. Accommodation La Roja Budget or similar

Day 12 – NUSA LEMBONGAN – travel by vehicle to Toya Pacek harbour where we take a local boat on a short trip to Nusa Lembongan. When on Lembongan, we can explore the seaweed harvesting and have a seafood dinner on the beach. Enjoy sunset by the Devil’s Tears. Accommodation Cubang Huts or similar

Day 13 – NUSA LEMBONGAN – Free day to enjoy an optional snorkelling trip around Nusa Lembongan and search for Manta Rays off Nusa Penida. With your free time, you can relax and enjoy the serenity of the island paradise or take a trip over the yellow bridge to the Blue Lagoon on Nusa Ceningan. As always, a beautiful sunset will await. Accommodation Cubang Huts or similar

Day 14 – SANUR – After spenDing your final day enjoying island life, we take a fast boat trip in the afternoon back to Bali mainland for a final nights dinner and celebration in Sanur. Accommodation Puri Kesari Guest House or similar

Day 15 – SANUR – finish the trip at a group breakfast in Sanur and make your way to the airport for your flight home.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• TOUR THE STUNNING COASTLINE OF NUSA PENIDA

• ELEPHANTS, MONKEYS, TURTLES, MANTA RAYS AND MORE WILDLIFE

• EXPLORE THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LISTED JATILUWAH RICE TERRACES

• DISCOVER BALI'S WELLNESS CENTRE IN UBUD AND TREAT YOURSELF TO A MASSAGE

• SNORKELLING AROUND NUSA LEMBONGAN AND NUSA PENIDA

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• 14 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION AT HOTELS/GUESTHOUSES (UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED)

• SOME MEALS ARE INCLUDED BUT GENERALLY MEAL CHOICES AND LOCATIONS ARE OPTIONAL. THIS ALLOWS YOU THE GREATEST FLEXIBILITY FOR PREFERENCE AND BUDGET

• TRANSPORTATION BETWEEN DESTINATIONS ON TRIP AND TO/FROM INCLUDED ACTIVITIES BY:

  • PRIVATE VEHICLE WITH DRIVER

  • PUBLIC BUS

  • LOCAL TAXI

  • FERRY BOAT

• WESTERN GUIDE FOR DURATION OF THE TRIP

• PARK FEES AND LOCAL GUIDES

• ACTIVITIES

  • UBUD CITY TOUR AND MONKEY FOREST

  • GUIDED WALK THROUGH THE JATILUWAH RICE TERRACES

  • KECAK DANCE PERFORMANCE

  • MUNDUK TWIN WATERFALL VISIT

  • TOUR TO KELINGKING BEACH, ANGEL’S BILLABONG AND BROKEN BEACH

  • SIDEMAN GUIDED TOUR

  • VISIT TO ATUH BEACH, DIAMOND BEACH AND MOLENGTENG TREE HOUSES

  • NUSA LEMBONGAN/NUSA CENINGAN TOUR

NOT INCLUDED:

• FLIGHTS TO/FROM BALI FROM YOUR LOCATION

• TRAVEL INSURANCE(REQUIRED)

• ENTRY VISA (IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO DETERMINE IF YOU NEED A VISA AND WHAT TYPE YOU REQUIRE TO ENTER THE COUNTRY)

• ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

• MOST LUNCHES AND DINNERS

• TIPS FOR GUIDES

ITINERARY DISCLAIMER:

• WHILE IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO MODIFY THE ITINERARY, THERE ARE MANY FACTORS INVOLVED BEYOND OUR CONTROL.  SINCE OUR TRIP WILL BE VISITING AN AREA WHERE THERE IS UNPREDICTABILITY, WE REQUIRE THE TRIP TO BE A LITTLE FLEXIBLE TO CATER TO NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE CHANGES.  ALSO, WE MAY DISCOVER NEW ADVENTURES OR EXPERIENCES THAT WE FEEL ARE BETTER THAN ORIGINALLY PLANNED, SO WE CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE ADDITIONS.  THE ITINERARY IS KEPT BRIEF TO ALLOW SOME FLEXIBILITY IN OUR TRIP.  WE FEEL THIS IS THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL AND A GREAT WAY TO SHARE EXPERIENCES WITH OUR CLIENTS

VACCINATIONS:

• IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL MEDICAL CLINIC OR LOCAL HEALTH EXPERT PRIOR TO THE TRIP TO DISCUSS WHICH VACCINATIONS YOU NEED FOR YOUR ADVENTURE IN INDONESIA

SOUTHEAST ASIA

VIETNAM EXPERIENCE - jan/2020

Photo by Martin Callum

Travel the length of Vietnam from the northernmost rice terraces of Sapa, to the southern hustle and bustle of city life in Ho Chi Minh City where just crossing the street can be considered a sport.  The journey finishes with some much deserved beach time on the white sand of Phu Quoc Island.  Vietnam is a long country, and travel isn’t always efficient.  It takes time to properly tour this interesting country, so this 19-day itinerary will allow you to savour your journey. Absorb all the sights and smells, immerse in the culture, explore the history, and see the natural beauty that is Vietnam.   This country is thriving, but you can still see and explore remnants from the difficult war time and see what it was like from the Vietnamese perspective.  Attempt to crawl through the tiny Cu Chi tunnels to get a taste of what it was like.  On the flip side, we will tour through huge caves in the stunning limestone scenery of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh.  And last but not least, did we mention the food?

$2900 CAD or $2300 USD plus applicable taxes

Based on double occupancy.   Single supplement also available for additional cost.

Maximum group size 16.

19 DAY ITINERARY:

Day 1 – HANOI – experience the capital on your first evening and an introductory dinner

Day 2 – HANOI – a walking tour of Hanoi including Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Hanoi Citadel

Day 3 – SAPA – transport to Sapa and take in the stunning scenery below Mt Fansipan

Day 4 – SAPA – trek through the terraced rice paddies, visiting local villages and meeting local hilltribes along the way

Day 5 – HANOI – a morning among the terraces before a journey back to Hanoi.  Then attempt to get lost in the streets of the old quarter

Day 6 – HANOI – free time to enjoy the sights and smells of Hanoi

Day 7 – HALONG BAY – a morning bus ride to Halong City where you board an overnight boat to tour Halong Bay

Day 8 – NINH BINH – a chance to kayak around the pinnacles from your boat, then return to shore and drive to Ninh Binh for the evening

Day 9 – NINH BINH – experience 'Halong Bay on Land' karst formations with a tour along the local river

Day 10 – NINH BINH – explore the Unesco World Heritage listed Trang An Grottoes and choose to bike around the local villages

Day 11 – HOI AN – bus back to Hanoi for a flight to Danang, then a short drive to the atmospheric Unesco Heritage listed town of Hoi An

Day 12 – HOI AN - free time to enjoy Hoi An. Get some sun on An Bang beach, join a bike tour around town or visit a local tailor for some custom made clothes

Day 13 – HOI AN – take a local cooking class, visit the local markets, rappel into caves on Marble Mountain, or just chill along the river

Day 14 – HO CHI MINH CITY – a flight to Ho Chi Minh city where you can immerse yourself in the crazy bustle of the big city

Day 15 – HO CHI MINH CITY – try to crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels and take in a ceremony at the Cao Dai temple

Day 16 – PHU QUOC – a quick flight over to Phu Quoc island where you have some relaxation time on the white sand beaches

Day 17 – PHU QUOC – take a boat trip and go snorkelling or scuba diving in the pristine waters

Day 18 – PHU QUOC – free time to tour the island by motorbike and find some remote beaches. Finish the day with a seafood feast on the beach

Day 19 – PHU QUOC – the tour ends on Phu Quoc after breakfast. You may need to travel back to Ho Chi Minh City for a flight, or continue relaxing on the beach

HIGHLIGHTS:

• TREKKING THE TERRACED RICE PADDIES OF SAPA IN THE NORTH NEAR THE CHINESE BORDER

• BOATING AROUND THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LISTED HALONG BAY LIMESTONE KARST SCENERY

• SIGHTSEEING AND SHOPPING IN THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LISTED CITY OF HOI AN

• RELAX ON THE WHITE SAND BEACHES OF THE ISLAND OF PHU QUOC

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• 18 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION AT HOTELS/GUESTHOUSES (UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED)

• SOME MEALS ARE INCLUDED BUT GENERALLY MEAL CHOICES AND LOCATIONS ARE OPTIONAL. THIS ALLOWS YOU THE GREATEST FLEXIBILITY FOR PREFERENCE AND BUDGET

• TRANSPORTATION BETWEEN DESTINATIONS ON TRIP AND TO/FROM INCLUDED ACTIVITIES BY:

  • PRIVATE VEHICLE WITH DRIVER

  • BOAT

  • TRAIN

  • LOCAL TAXI

  • SHUTTLE BUS

  • INTERNAL DOMESTIC FLIGHT FROM HANOI TO HOI AN (DANANG)

  • INTERNAL DOMESTIC FLIGHT FROM HOI AN (DANANG) TO HO CHI MINH CITY

  • INTERNAL DOMESTIC FLIGHT FROM HO CHI MINH CITY TO PHU QUOC

• WESTERN GUIDE FOR DURATION OF THE TRIP

• PARK FEES AND LOCAL GUIDES

• ACTIVITIES

  • TREKKING AROUND THE SAPA RICE TERRACES WITH LOCAL GUIDE

  • HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM

  • HANOI CITADEL

  • TEMPLE OF LITERATURE

  • WATER PUPPET THEATRE ENTRY TICKET

  • HALONG BAY 2 DAY/1 NIGHT BOAT TRIP

  • BOAT TRIP THROUGH THE LIMESTONE KARST SCENERY IN NINH BINH

  • TRANG AN GROTTOES ENTRY

  • CU CHI TUNNELS TOUR COMPLETE WITH CAO DAI TEMPLE

NOT INCLUDED:

• FLIGHTS TO/FROM VIETNAM FROM YOUR LOCATION

• TRAVEL INSURANCE (REQUIRED)

• ENTRY VISA (IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO DETERMINE IF YOU NEED A VISA AND WHAT TYPE YOU REQUIRE TO ENTER THE COUNTRY)

• TIPS FOR GUIDES

• ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

ITINERARY DISCLAIMER:

• WHILE IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO MODIFY THE ITINERARY, THERE ARE MANY FACTORS INVOLVED BEYOND OUR CONTROL.  SINCE OUR TRIP WILL BE VISITING AN AREA WHERE THERE IS UNPREDICTABILITY, WE REQUIRE THE TRIP TO BE A LITTLE FLEXIBLE TO CATER TO NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE CHANGES.  ALSO, WE MAY DISCOVER NEW ADVENTURES OR EXPERIENCES THAT WE FEEL ARE BETTER THAN ORIGINALLY PLANNED, SO WE CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE ADDITIONS.  THE ITINERARY IS KEPT BRIEF TO ALLOW SOME FLEXIBILITY IN OUR TRIP.  WE FEEL THIS IS THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL AND A GREAT WAY TO SHARE EXPERIENCES WITH OUR CLIENTS

VACCINATIONS:

• IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL MEDICAL CLINIC OR LOCAL HEALTH EXPERT PRIOR TO THE TRIP TO DISCUSS WHICH VACCINATIONS YOU NEED FOR YOUR ADVENTURE IN VIETNAM

PHILIPPINES

LUZON~PALAWAN EXPERIENCE - apr/2020

The Philippines have yet to fall deeply onto the tourist trail, but it’s definitely not for lack of beauty.  The 7000 plus islands that make up the Philippine Archipelago are some of the most stunning in the world, so it won’t be long until more tourists venture here.  Beat the rush to this underexplored beauty, and discover white sand beaches, limestone karst towers, and an underwater feast for the eyes. You’ll visit Unesco heritage listed sites: hike through Banaue rice terraces (called by some the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’) and float the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River on Palawan.  Travel on the local Jeepneys that transport thousands of Filipinos each day, and visit some ancient remote tribes along the way.  Adventure looms both above ground and underground, not to mention in and under the water on the thousands of Philippine islands. This is a journey overflowing with modern cities, laid-back hill towns, traditional friendly Filipino culture, and above all, some real out of the way exploration.

$3500 CAD or $2750 USD plus applicable taxes

Based on double occupancy.   Single supplement also available for additional cost.

Maximum group size 16.

15 DAY ITINERARY:

Day 1 – MANILA – welcome day and chance to experience old town Intramuros

Day 2 – BAGUIO – journey by land to this laid back mountain town

Day 3 – SAGADA – some of the most spectacular scenery in the Philippines on this drive to Sagada

Day 4 – SAGADA – hike to the bizarre hanging coffins in Echo Valley

Day 5 – BANAUE/BATAD – experience the Eighth wonder of the world – the rice terraces of Banaue – hike to a local Ifugao village for an overnight stay

Day 6 – BANAUE – return hike from the village and hop on a Jeepney to Banaue for the night

Day 7 – MANILA – OR OVERNIGHT BUS - free time to trek around the rice terraces or just relax before an overnight bus back to Manila

Day 8 – PUERTO PRINCESA – fly to Puerto Princesa and enjoy a tour around town and Bakers Hill

Day 9 – SABANG/SAN RAFAEL – boat through the Puerto Princesa underground river and cave system

Day 10 – SABANG/SAN RAFAEL – hike to visit the local Batak tribe

Day 11 – EL NIDO – travel by land to El Nido, famous for limestone cliffs, white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters

Day 12 – EL NIDO – snorkeling or diving around El Nido and how about dinner on the beach

Day 13 – EL NIDO – a free day to enjoy the stunning El Nido scenery

Day 14 – PUERTO PRINCESA – a morning of relaxing on the beach before returning to Puerto Princesa

Day 15 – PUERTO PRINCESA – finish the trip over breakfast in Puerto Princesa, and fabulous memories

HIGHLIGHTS:

• EXPLORE THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LISTED BANAUE RICE TERRACES

• TREK TO THE HANGING COFFINS NEAR SAGADA

• FLOAT THE UNESCO LISTED PUERTO PRINCESA SUBTERRANEAN RIVER

• DISCOVER WHITE SAND BEACHES, TURQUOISE WATERS AND LIMESTONE KARSTS OF EL NIDO

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• 14 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION AT HOTELS/GUESTHOUSES (UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED)

• SOME MEALS ARE INCLUDED BUT GENERALLY MEAL CHOICES AND LOCATIONS ARE OPTIONAL. THIS ALLOWS YOU THE GREATEST FLEXIBILITY FOR PREFERENCE AND BUDGET

• TRANSPORTATION BETWEEN DESTINATIONS ON TRIP AND TO/FROM INCLUDED ACTIVITIES BY:

  • JEEPNEY

  • PRIVATE VEHICLE WITH DRIVER

  • PUBLIC BUS

  • LOCAL TAXI

  • BOAT

  • INTERNAL DOMESTIC FLIGHT (MANILA TO PUERTO PRINCESA)

• WESTERN GUIDE FOR DURATION OF THE TRIP

• PARK FEES AND LOCAL GUIDES

• ACTIVITIES

  • GUIDED HIKE THROUGH THE BANAUE RICE TERRACES

  • BONTOC MUSEUM ENTRY

  • GUIDED WALK TO THE HANGING COFFINS

  • BAGUIO ORIENTATION WALK

  • PUERTO PRINCESA CITY TOUR INCLUDING BAKER HILL

  • PUERTO PRINCESA SUBTERRANEAN RIVER NATIONAL PARK VISIT

  • GUIDED WALK TO THE SABANG TRIBE

  • ISLAND HOPPING BOAT TRIP INCLUDING SNORKELING IN EL NIDO

NOT INCLUDED:

• FLIGHTS TO/FROM THE PHILIPPINES FROM YOUR LOCATION

• TRAVEL INSURANCE(REQUIRED)

• ENTRY VISA (IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO DETERMINE IF YOU NEED A VISA AND WHAT TYPE YOU REQUIRE TO ENTER THE COUNTRY)

• TIPS FOR GUIDES

• ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

ITINERARY DISCLAIMER:

• WHILE IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO MODIFY THE ITINERARY, THERE ARE MANY FACTORS INVOLVED BEYOND OUR CONTROL.  SINCE OUR TRIP WILL BE VISITING AN AREA WHERE THERE IS UNPREDICTABILITY, WE REQUIRE THE TRIP TO BE A LITTLE FLEXIBLE TO CATER TO NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE CHANGES.  ALSO, WE MAY DISCOVER NEW ADVENTURES OR EXPERIENCES THAT WE FEEL ARE BETTER THAN ORIGINALLY PLANNED, SO WE CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE ADDITIONS.  THE ITINERARY IS KEPT BRIEF TO ALLOW SOME FLEXIBILITY IN OUR TRIP.  WE FEEL THIS IS THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL AND A GREAT WAY TO SHARE EXPERIENCES WITH OUR CLIENTS

VACCINATIONS:

• IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL MEDICAL CLINIC OR LOCAL HEALTH EXPERT PRIOR TO THE TRIP TO DISCUSS WHICH VACCINATIONS YOU NEED FOR YOUR ADVENTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES