Exotic lands of deserts, majestic lakes, and breathtakingly beautiful islands where Komodo dragons dwell are on the horizon. We’re daydreaming of escaping to untouched places far from the madding crowds, where we can immerse ourselves in Mother Nature’s greatest handiwork, the moment it’s safe to do so, of course.
Imagine exploring unique destinations filled with history, nature, and culture as you’re led by some of the most experienced and knowledgeable guides on the planet. Our adventures don’t just steer you to the tourist hotspots, they take you deep into the pulsating heart of each destination and teach you about ancient traditions and well-kept secrets.
So, what are you waiting for? Sit back, relax and dream away as we list some of our favourite adventures where you can truly get away from it all.
Primates & Dragons of Indonesia
Comprising more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia is a kaleidoscopic country bursting with diversity. From the idyllic beaches and simmering volcanoes to its exotic species of wildlife, Indonesia is one place we really can’t wait to visit again. But, without a doubt, Indonesia is mostly synonymous with the beastly Komodo dragon.
As well as trekking through the rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park in search of orang-utans, and sampling the local food at the village of Bukit Lawang, you’ll explore the remote savannas of Rinca and Komodo islands to track Komodo dragons. The expert guides on this Primates & Dragons of Indonesia trip lead you to the most likely spots for spying the dragons before you head to Manta Point to snorkel among giant manta rays.
Langtang and Gosainkund Lakes
Tucked away among the dramatic peaks of Nepal’s Langtang National Park, Gosainkund is a sacred, alpine lake. Thanks to its more secluded location, you’ll meet fewer trekkers so you can truly wallow in the silence and magnificence of this spectacular region.
It’s no wonder that Gosainkund Lake has become an important place of pilgrimage. Enveloped by the imposing mountains of the Annapurnas, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Himalchuli, you’ll be dumbfounded not only by the staggering views but also the total sense of calm and escapism as you explore Langtang and Gosainkund lakes. En route, you’ll stop at a traditional teahouse to sample Nepalese dishes before spending the night close to a shrine at the edge of the lake, where you can watch the golden reflection of the sunset glistening on the water’s surface.
Walk the North Highland Way
You don’t have to travel to the ends of the earth to experience utter remoteness and ancient sites. As you Walk the North Highland Way, you’ll be introduced to some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery and awesome wildlife.
One of the many things we love about this trip is unravelling the folklore and Viking heritage of the lesser-known villages you’ll visit along the way, which is imparted by our expert guides. You’ll sail across the waters to the Orkney Islands to visit some of the best-preserved Neolithic UNESCO sites in Europe where you’ll be exposed to Scapa Flow, The Churchill Barriers, and Skara Brae.
Following a walk to Dunnet Head Lighthouse, the most northerly point of the British mainland, you’ll have an uninterrupted clifftop view of the Orkney Islands with the chance to spot puffins in their colonies.
Arctic Express Canada
Journey to the heart of the Northwest Passage on our Arctic Express Canada voyage and embark on a Polar expedition like no other. Search for endemic wildlife such as polar bears and musk ox as you sail among some of the wildest locations on Earth. Our experts share their knowledge with fascinating tales of the region’s history and geography whilst following in the wake of famous Arctic explorers and visiting ancient sites and Inuit communities surrounding Lancaster Sound.
National Parks and Lodges (USA)
The USA’s national parks are renowned for their iconic sights but it’s those unsung spots that we’re really itching to explore again. The National Parks and Lodges (USA) tour takes you off the tourist trails and onto the backroads as you follow a more inaccessible route to the sacred Monument Valley of Navajo Nation in Arizona. Tours of the six most impressive national parks include Death Valley and the lesser-known Zion and Arches where you’ll have the opportunity to witness monumental landscapes as you hike to some of the best viewpoints in the USA.
Japan’s Kumano Kodo
Packed with more culture and history than you can shake a stick at, this immersive Japan’s Kumano Kodo trip takes you on a mind-boggling walking tour of Japan’s pilgrimage routes. Along the way, you’ll explore Kyoto’s ancient shrines and stay in authentic ryokans where you can experience the traditional Japanese way of life away from the hustle and bustle of the usual honeypots. One of the most iconic pilgrimage routes you’ll walk is the Kumano Kodo, a designated World Heritage Site which dates back more than 1,000 years and meanders through the mountains of Wakayama.
Walking in Bosnia & Herzegovina
We’re so excited to don our walking boots and get back to nature on this Walking in Bosnia & Herzegovina trip as soon as we’re given the green flag to travel. This is a country of undeniable beauty and significant history, and you’ll be immersed in its fascinating culture. One of the highlights of the trip is a trek up Bosnia’s tallest mountain, Mt Maglic. As you climb higher into the mountains, through deep forest and along glacial lakes, there’s plenty of time to reflect on the country’s turbulent past. There’s also the opportunity to go rafting along Herzegovina’s Neretva River, which flows through spectacular canyons and gorges.
Cycle Namibia
Hit remote sand dunes on a fat bike and explore prolific national parks when you embark on this Cycle Namibia trip. From Namib Naukluft Desert to Swakopmund, you might be fortunate enough to spot some of the country’s greatest wildlife such as zebras, springbok, ostrich, and gemsbok. Fat bikes, so named because of the width of the tyres, are designed for desert cycling and provide a thrilling experience among some of the more challenging terrains.
If this blog has inspired you to plan an adventure that’s truly off-the-beaten-track, why not book ahead to get away from it all, and view our full collection of trips by clicking here.
