Day 01: Arrive Lima
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Lima, Peru’s capital, and one of South America’s most beautiful cities. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at airport. Meet-assist and transfer to hotel.
Enjoy free time. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Lima / Cusco
Catch an early flight to Cusco. Spend a little time acclimatising to the high altitude (3450 metres/11,320 feet) and then get acquainted with this charming town on a walking tour with your leader. Check out Cusco’s vibrant main square (Plaza de Armas). Witness the flurry of activity that characterises the San Pedro market. Stroll past the slew of quaint restaurants and artisans found in San Blas Square. See Qoricancha (an Inca Sun Temple) and the famous 12 Angle Stone, then end your tour at the chocolate museum, where you’ll get a chance to sample hot chocolate made from local cacao beans. This might be a good opportunity to purchase some gifts or souvenirs. There’s a small store where you’ll find various handicrafts and a variety of artisanal chocolate products.

Day 03: Cusco / Aguas Calientes
Travel by private car through the Sacred Valley (approximately 2 hours) on the outskirts of Cusco. This lush valley was known as Wilcamayo to the Incas and has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces carved high into the valley walls. You will visit a community in the valley to learn about local lifestyle and activities. If your visit coincides with market day you can browse the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos, and perhaps practice your newfound language, Quechua. Later in the afternoon, board a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, which is nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu. This extra journey ensures that we can travel to Machu Picchu as early as possible tomorrow morning.

Day 04: Machu Picchu / Cusco
Take a bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu (approximately 30 minutes). This is your chance to decide for yourself whether Machu Picchu was built around 1440 as a country retreat for Incan nobility or is an ancient astronomical observatory. Enjoy a guided visit of the incredible site (1.5–2 hours) taking in the many temples, palaces and living quarters. After taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities, return to Cusco.

Note: Due to Intrepid’s internal safety policy, our leaders are specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting with booking climbs of Wayna Picchu.

Visiting Machu Picchu:
According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only and once the guided visit commences exiting and re-entering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.

Day 05: Cusco
Enjoy free time to relax, shop and explore more of Cusco’s sights, or simply rest your legs at a cafe on Plaza de Armas. For those who can’t get Denough active adventure, a mountain bike adventure into the surrounding hills is recommended.

Day 06: Puno
Travel by local bus across the spectacular Altiplano to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca (approximately 7 hours). Mingle with the locals in this melting pot of Aymara and Quechuan cultures and see how traditional Andean customs are still strongly represented here. If you’re lucky your visit might coincide with one of the colourful evening parades, which see the streets fill with costumed dancers and musicians.

Day 07: Lake Titicaca (Homestay)
Take a tour of the lake by slow motorboat, stopping off to visit the Uros floating islands. Using the versatile totora reeds found in the shallows of the lake, the Uros originally built their islands to isolate themselves from rival tribes. To get a closer look at daily life in the Lake Titicaca region, you’ll be welcomed into the home of a local community and stay the night. Make the most of your visit by helping your host family with their daily activities, communicating with them in Quechua, or perhaps trying your luck with them at soccer.

Day 08: Lima
Depart your homestay this morning and take a bus to Juliaca airport (approximately 2 hours). In the afternoon take an included flight back to Lima (approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes). Enjoy a last night out with your fellow travellers in Lima.

Day 09: Depart Lima
Final departure transfer to airport for flight back to home.

Day 01: Arrive Bishkek; afternoon city tour
The tour starts in Bishkek. The group flights are scheduled to arrive into Bishkek in the morning; those on the group flights will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel (approx. 40km/1hr drive). We have requested early check-in for all clients so the rooms should be ready for when you arrive. Land only clients who have booked their own flights should join at the start hotel no later than midday as we have a city tour in the afternoon. Bishkek is Kyrgyzstan’s modern capital city and industrial centre and this afternoon we’ll have a guided tour to explore its wide avenues and Soviet heritage. We visit the Frunze Museum and Museum of Fine Arts (please note that the National History Museum is closed for maintenance at the time of writing) as well as the city’s main sites (on foot and using transfers where necessary), taking in Manas Monument, Lenin Statue, Ala-Too Square (where we witness the ceremonial changing of the guard), Kurmanzhan Datka Monument, and the Government buildings. We end the tour.

Day 02: Full day excursion and warm-up walk in Ala-Archa N.P.
Today we take an excursion to Ala-Archa National Park, located about 40-60 minutes (40km) north of Bishkek and go for a gentle warm-up walk, usually to a waterfall which takes approx. 4-5hrs for a round trip / 3.75km each way.

Day 03: Drive via Burana Tower to Tosor Village on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul;0 overnight in a yurt camp
We begin our journey towards the Tian Shan, or more specifically, the Terskey Ala-Too Range. Our destination is Tosor on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul (the drive is approximately 310km/6-7 hours). We break up the journey with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site – Burana Tower, an 11th century minaret and the first of its kind in Central Asia and an important point along the Great Silk Road. Issyk-Kul is the second largest salt lake in the world, after the Caspian Sea (and fast becoming the largest as the Caspian Sea recedes), it measures 70km by 180km and is almost 700m at its deepest point. Its name translates as ‘Hot Lake’ and was given as, even in the depths of winter and despite being just above 1,600m, it never freezes. The area around the lake is a mixture of forest and meadow with a backdrop of towering mountains. Tonight, we usually sleep in a yurt camp but as space is limited, occasionally we may have to stay in a guesthouse in Tamga village.

Day 04: Free morning by the lake; transfer to Juukuchak Gorge
We have a free morning to take in the scenery, perhaps swim in the lake or sunbathe on its shores. After lunch at the yurt camp, we drive for around 1.5hrs (70km) to Juuku Gorge and onwards into a smaller branch of the canyon – Juukuchak Gorge. Upon arrival, our tents will be ready and waiting for us. We’ll meet our trekking guides and camp staff, stretch our legs around the camp, and this evening there will be a full trek briefing. Full-service wild camping

Day 05: Trek over Orto-Bulak Pass (2,540m) to Kichi-Kyzyl-Suu Gorge
Afte0r breakfast we set off walking along a trail from the foot of the mountains up and over Orto Bulak Pass (2,540m) in the Kichi-Kyzyl-Suu Gorge. The scenery is pristine which adds to the beauty. Full-service wild camping

Day 6: Hike through nomad pastures to Djili-Suu; option to visit nearby hot springs by jeep
This morning we begin following the trail to Chon Kyzyl-Suu Gorge. Chon Kyzyl-Suu Gorge is popular with Kyrgyz nomads, as there are many green pastures and mountain rivers. We will usually see several nomadic families along the way, together with their livestock and yurt settlements. We’ll reach our campsite at Djili-Suu in the early afternoon. After reaching our camp there is an opportunity to take our jeep to the nearby hot springs. There are several small pools with hot springs and the waters are believed to have good health properties. Full-service wild camping

Day 07: Trek to Jety-Oguz Canyon via Kok-Jaiyk Pass (2750m)
We continue our hike to the Jety-Oguz Gorge, one of the most beautiful and famous canyons in Kyrgyzstan. To reach this gorge, we have to cross the river and cross the Kok-Jaiyk Pass (2750m). It’s quite a climb but the view from the top of the pass will give us a new appreciation of these so called ‘celestial mountains’ as we’re rewarded with an unforgettable mountain panorama. During today’s walk, we will also get magnificent views of Lake Issyk-Kul. At the end of the day, we reach the camp – a chance to grab a shower. 

Day 08: Ascend via a narrow, wooded river gorge to the base of Telety Pass
This morning we meet our team of porters who will carry our main luggage for the remainde r of the trek. We follow a path along the bank of the West Telety River, through a very narrow wooded gorge (Bay Tor), and eventually emerge in alpine meadows. We usually stop for a picnic lunch in the meadows, which are awash with colour in spring as the wild flowers bloom. After a rest, we continue the trek to our tented camp (approx. 3000m) at the foot of Telety Pass. After settling into our tents there is the option to take a short 1km walk to the nearby waterfall.Full-service camping (fixed tented camp)

Day 09: Cross Telety Pass (3800m); descend through alpine meadows to Karakol
Today is a challenging day with a reasonable amount of ascent and descent and some tricky terrain. The route over Telety Pass follows a narrow path which ascends gradually for the most part. There are however, two steep slopes, which require considerable effort. From the top of the pass (3,800m) the views are spectacular. The descent is along a wide slope covered with talus, which gives way to alpine meadows and then follows the East Telety River. One of the latter sections of the trail passes through woodland, where you will need to concentrate on your footing to avoid the overgrown tree roots. Tonight’s camp is situated at about 2,500m elevation.Full-service camping (fixed tented camp)

Day 10: Daywalk to the foot of Karakol Peak, the highest in the Terskey Ala-Too Range
Today we go on a return daywalk up and along Uyun Tor River to the foot of Karakol Peak. We have a chance to see Tien Shan blue spruce forest, underwood (dog rose, honeysuckle, black barberries, mountain ash, black currents, etc.) and wild mushrooms. In the summer flowers are in bloom in the meadows, such as snowdrops, tulips, primroses, and edelweiss. We trek to a point from where we can see Karakol Peak, the highest of the Terskey Ala-Too Range.Full-service camping (fixed tented camp)

Day 11: Ascend through forest to a waterfall by Lake Ala-Kul (3600m)
Although the distance today is not great, this is a tough walk due to the amount of ascent, especially if it is hot. We firstly descend along the gorge for about a kilometre, and then cross the river by bridge to follow the trail into a forest. A long ascent brings us to a grassy slope, from where the path snakes its way onwards, passing by a river overflow, to finally arrive at a log hut, known locally as Sirota mountain hut. There’s a table, benches and a fireplace inside – the perfect spot for a rest and a snack. There are some sculptures of animals and idols carved in wood in the area surrounding the hut, like something out of a fairy-tale. From here, the trail climbs up higher, and leaving the forest behind, we hike along the river and reach a beautiful waterfall, flowing down from Ala-Kul Lake. Tonight’s camp is situated at approx. 3,600m elevation.Full-service camping (fixed tented camp)

Day 12: Long descent with fine mountain views to Altyn Arashan; option to take a dip in the thermal baths
As we ascend we enjoy wonderful views of the lake – in the Kyrgyz language Ala-Kul means “colourful Lake”, and its water can appear in different colours depending on the light. As we get closer to its shores, we see the main Terskey Ala-Too Range, including Aksu, Djigit, Karakol and Oguz Bashi Peaks. From the lake edge, it will take us another hour and a half to the pass. The initial descent from the pass is on a steep scree slope, and then through the picturesque Keldike Valley, where we’ll encounter herds of cattle and flocks of sheep grazing. Later the trail brings us into a forest again and descends into Arashan Valley. At the tent camp in Altyn Arashan, there’s the option to relax in the hot springs (there are thermal baths of up to +50degC).Full-service camping (fixed tented camp)

Day 13: Military truck to Karakol for sightseeing; traditional home-cooked ‘lagman’ noodle dinner
This morning we spend some time admiring Altyn Arashan and the surrounding area, especially the fir forest in contrast with the snowy mountain backdrop. We then descend to Karakol town by military truck (approx. 1 hour). Depending on the ‘road’ conditions we may walk along the river as far as the national park gates before continuing by truck. We’ll have a short sightseeing tour of the town, visiting Dungan Mosque, the Russian Orthodox Cathedral and Prjevalskii Memorial Complex.Tonight’s dinner will be taken in a Dungan family home in Karakol town, where we can see traditional cooking methods and learn how to make lagman noodles, before sitting down to eat together.

Day 14: Drive to Bishkek visiting Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs en route; optional Kyrgyz folklore show
In and around Cholpon-Ata
We drive back to Bishkek, stopping to visit the Cholpon Ata Petroglyphs along the north shore of Lake Issyk-Kul en route. The drive is approximately 250km and takes 5-6 hours – we’ll stop for lunch at a road cafe on the way. Close to Cholpon Ata are Scythian burial mounds, as well as the ‘stone forest’ or petroglyphs which are between 4,000 and 1,400 years old. They are located at the foot of Kungei Alatau Ridge at a scenic spot overlooking the lake.A farewell dinner is included in Bishkek and if you wish, there is the option to arrange a Kyrgyz folklore show. The talented musicians and singers wear traditional Kyrgyz costumes and play a wide range of national musical instruments – including a Komuz (a three-stringed wooden musical instrument) to Chopo Choi (wind instrument made of mountain reed).

Day 15: End Bishkek
The tour ends in Bishkek after breakfast. Final departure transfer to the airport in time for the flight back to home.

Day 01: Arrive Bishkek
Arrival to the aiport Manas and meeting Kyrgyz team. Transfer to Bishkek – the capital. Overnight in Bishkek.

Day 02: Bishkek – Burana – Chon-Kemin
Start of the Bishkek city tour: Сentral Square Ala-Too, Monument of the National Hero Manas, Statue of Lenin, Old Square with Parliament House, Victory Square, Oak Park, Opera House, Philharmonic Theatre. Overnight in Bishkek

Day 03: Chon-Kemin – Skazka – Djety-Oguz – Karakol
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Chon-Kemin. On the way visit to Burana Tower – middle age minaret, built in Balasagun town – the capital of Karakhanid State (IX-XI AD). Explore ruins of that important trading point at the Great Silk Road and visit a little local museum and a collection of Balbals, Turkic ancient stone sculptures. Continuing driving to Chon-Kemin. Upon arrival lunch and short rest. In the afternoon horseback riding (extra fee) in the mountains or light hiking. Overnight in Karakol.

Day 04: Karakol – Cholpon-Ata – Karakol
After breakfast drive to Karakol – administrative center of Issyk-Kul region. The road goes along the south shore of the Issykul lake. Issykul is the second largest alpine lake in the world. Possible to see a yurt (ancient nomadic house) installation at the house of local family (extra pay). where the nomadic yurt installation will take place, showing the entire process engaging participants. On the way visit of the Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon with its colorful sandy formations. It provides one of the best views of the Issyk-Kul Lake. Next stop is Djety Oguz, a scenic mountain valley, which is famous for its red rocks called «Seven Bulls» and «Broken Heart». Upon arrival walk around the area and taking some pictures. Drive to Karakol. Overnight in Karakol.

Day 05: Karakol – Cholpon-Ata 
Breakfast at the hotel. Start of the Karakol sightseeing tour: Visit of the Dungan Mosque (XIX century), a unique building in Chinese style with no nails used. Also, visit of the wooden Russian Orthodox Church of The Holy Trinity built at the end of the XIX century. Walk around the central bazaar (market) to feel the real life of the city. Next destination is Cholpon-Ata. On the way visit to the museum of a famous Russian explorer of XIX century N.M. Przhevalsky, who was the first European to explore and describe Central Asia as well as to draw the map of it. Continue driving to Cholpon-Ata. Upon arrival visit of the open-air museum of prehistoric monumental structures (rock engravings, stone circles, tombs, the remains of a boundary stone wall,) and petroglyphs (V BC – VI AD) of Scythians and Hungsuns civilizations. Also visit to Historical Museum of the Issy-Kul region in Cholpon-Ata. Overnight in Cholpon-Ata

Day 06: Cholpon-Ata – Tamchy – Bishkek – Airport
After breakfast drive to Bishkek. On the way visit of the Tamchy village, where local craftswomen can demonstrate traditional felt carpet making. Continue drive to the Bishkek’s airport to catch an evening flight to next destination.

Day 01: Arrive Pristina
Our professional office representative will meet at airport & transfer to hotel.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Pristina – Decan – Peja
Our tour guide will come and pick you up at your hotel in Pristina at 9:00 am. Our first destination will be the Monastery of Decan. This one stands out for its white colour, but even more remarkable is the fact that Orthodox monks still inhabit the monastery and make fresh organic food there, such as cheeses. The monastery became part of UNESCO in 2004 because of its frescoes, which portray the lives of people during the 14th century as well as the Palaeologan renaissance that changed the way of Byzantine painting.
Our second destination for today is Peja. The city has one cultural UNESCO heritage site, the Patriarchate of Peja, located near the entrance of the Rugova Valley. This medieval Orthodox Monastery was built in the 13th century, having four churches in a beautiful red colour. You will get some free time around 12:30 on all three days of the tour to enjoy a delicious lunch and wander around by yourself till 14:00. After visiting the monastery, we will wander through the characteristic Old Bazaar of the city. Overnight in Peja.

Day 03: Peja – Gjakova – Prizren
In the morning, we will head towards Gjakova. The city has the oldest and largest bazaar of Kosovo. Even though, it got destroyed during the first Balkan wars, the second world war and the Kosovo war, the bazaar got rebuilt again to its old state and is a nice place to enjoy a meal or to take a look at the stores that sell traditional clothing and items. We will also visit the clock tower and the Hadum mosque. The latter was built in the 16th century and somehow managed to survive the wars. Nowadays it shows the beginning of Islamic architecture in the Balkans, covered in stunning arabesque decorations.

After Gjakova, we continue our tour towards Prizren. The city is considered to be the cultural capital of Kosovo, mixing its rich history, incredible nature, religious tolerance and gastronomic delights. Prizren has played an important role in the region as an Illyrian settlement and as a crossroad for the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, contributing to the unique architecture of the city. Don’t miss the unique experience of shopping in one of the many filigree shops of the town, where you are welcomed to also see the metalsmithing magic happen. The river flows through the heart of the old town and under the many bridges that crisscross the city. The best way to explore the town is by wandering through the streets passing by elegant medieval houses that fight for your attention. The view from the fortress on the hill above the town offers a great panorama of this astonishing town. Overnight in Prizren.

Day 04: Prizren – Pristina
Our last destination of this tour will be the capital of Kosovo, Pristina. Here we will make a city tour. Not to be missed is the Newborn monument, symbol of their independence and being a young new country. We will also visit the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa with its own clock tower. The National Library of Kosovo is a building that definitely stands out from the rest, consisting out of 73 white domes. The main boulevard in the capital, Sheshi Nena Tereza, is a nice street to stroll through and enjoy a delicious meal or coffee at one of the restaurants. Here we will also pass the Skanderberg square with the statue of Skanderberg himself, the national Albanian hero. We will visit the Old Bazaar in Pristina with nearby the ethnographic museum that shows the traditional Kosovar life. In the late afternoon, our tour of Kosovo will come to an end. Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Depart Pristina
Departure transfer to airport for flight back to home.

Day 01: Arrive Pristina
Our professional office representative will meet at airport & transfer to hotel.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Pristina – Gracanica monastery– Ulpiana – Prizren
Our professional tour guide will come and pick you up at your hotel in Pristina at 9:00 am. The first destination of today is the Gracanica monastery. This monastery is seen as one of the most attractive ones in Kosovo. Inside of the church, you have to cover your knees and shoulders and women must wear a head scarf. You first enter the large chapel that has many medieval paintings. The smaller chapel is even more impressive with murals in bright colours. It is not allowed to take pictures inside, luckily the outside is just as picture-worthy.

After the monastery, our tour will continue to Ulpiana. You would probably not expect this in Kosovo, but the country has its own Roman Empire ruins. The ancient city of Ulpiana was an important centre of activity politically, economically and culturally. Many objects have been found on the site as well, such as sculptures of a woman’s head, a man’s head and a theatrical mask. You can still see the divisions between the different rooms and even a few stones are engraved with scriptures dating back to the Roman era.

Our final destination is Prizren. The city is considered to be the cultural capital of Kosovo, mixing its rich history, incredible nature, religious tolerance and gastronomic delights. You will get some free time around 12:30 on every day of the tour to enjoy a delicious lunch and wander around by yourself till 14:00. Prizren has played an important role in the region as an Illyrian settlement and as a crossroad for the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, contributing to the unique architecture of the city. The river flows through the heart of the old town and under the many bridges that crisscross the city. The best way to explore the town is by wandering through the streets passing by elegant medieval houses that fight for your attention. Overnight in Prizren.

Day 03: Prizren – Prevalla National Park – Prizren
After breakfast, we will move towards Prevalla National Park. The first thing we will see are the Sharr mountains that are getting more and more impressive as we get closer. The Lepenci River also begins in this mountainous terrain. The National Park is a popular ski location but also a beautiful place for a hike through amazing landscapes. This is what we will do, we will go for a hike once we arrive at the Prevalla village. After a day surrounded by the stunning Kosovar nature, we will return back to Prizren. Overnight in Prizren.

Day 04: Prizren – Rahovec – Mirusha waterfalls – Place near the waterfalls
Today we will drive towards the west of Kosovo. Here we will bring a visit to a winery inside of a castle and the vineyards that stretch out to the horizon. They offer various wines to taste. The town of Rahovec is known for being important in Kosovo’s wine industry. They proudly display the tombstone of an Illyrian soldier, dating back to 28 B.C. The tombstone is covered with carvings in the shape of grapes, which would indicate the long history of wine in the region.

We will continue our tour to another natural wonder, the Mirusha waterfalls, standing out from all the other waterfalls in the Balkans. It is a famous site in the country consisting out of two separate waterfalls. The water has created canyons around the waterfalls, making the site even more impressive. When you visit the waterfalls in the winter, they might be frozen, which gives a spectacular look. During the summer, you can take a dive in the inviting waters! Overnight near the waterfalls.

Day 05: Place near the waterfalls – Decan – Gjakova
Our destination for today is the city of Gjakova. On our way, we will make a stop at the Monastery of Decan. This one stands out for its white colour, but even more remarkable is the fact that Orthodox monks still inhabit the monastery and make fresh organic food there, such as cheeses. The monastery became part of UNESCO in 2004 because of its frescoes, which portray the lives of people during the 14th century as well as the Palaeologan renaissance that changed the way of Byzantine painting.
After this, we will arrive in Gjakova. The city has the oldest and largest bazaar of Kosovo. Even though, it got destroyed during the first Balkan wars, the second world war and the Kosovo war, the bazaar got rebuilt again to its old state and is a nice place to enjoy a meal or to take a look at the stores that sell traditional clothing and items. We will also visit the clock tower and the Hadum mosque. The latter was built in the 16th century and somehow managed to survive the wars. Nowadays it shows the beginning of Islamic architecture in the Balkans, covered in stunning arabesque decorations. Overnight in Gjakova.

Day 06: Gjakova – Peja – Rugova Valley
Our journey continues towards Peja. The city has one cultural UNESCO heritage site, the Patriarchate of Peja, located near the entrance of the Rugova Valley. This medieval Orthodox Monastery was built in the 13th century, having four churches in a beautiful red colour. After visiting the monastery, we will wander through the characteristic Old Bazaar of the city.
From Peja, we will go to Rugova Valley. No matter what season it is, Rugova Valley looks beautiful during all of them. Waterfalls, rocks, small villages, lakes, caves and numerous mountains with high peaks is what makes this national park a must-see destination in Kosovo. We will go for a hike through the valley and drive through the Accursed Mountains. Overnight in Rugova Valley.

Day 07: Rugova Valley – Prekaz – Mitrovica
Today we will dive into some quite recent history of Kosovo, first by visiting the village of Prekaz. The Prekaz village memorial of the Jashari family includes a memorial ground, a museum and the house of the Adem Jashari family. You can still see the bullet holes in the original house and Adem Jashari is buried nearby. In 1998, the Serbian police force launched an attack that caused the lives of Adem Jashari and 50 family members. The deaths of the Jashari family sparked protests all around Kosovo. Nowadays, Adem Jashari is seen as the national hero and you will find his name and image throughout the country.
Our next destination is the city of Mitrovica in the north of Kosovo. This city is divided in two halves, one having an Albanian population and the other a Serbian population. When crossing the New Bridge, that divides the two parts, it looks as if you are arriving in a completely different city. We will bring a visit to the Xhamia e Zallit mosque, built in the Ottoman style, and the Saint Demetrius church, built in Orthodox style. In the distance, on top of a mountain, the Miner’s monument is visible, which was designed in 1973 in honour of the workers that died during the Second World War. Overnight in Mitrovica.

Day 08: Mitrovica – Pristina
Our last destination of this tour will be the capital of Kosovo, Pristina. Here we will make a city tour. Not to be missed is the Newborn monument, symbol of their independence and being a young new country. We will also visit the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa with its own clock tower. The National Library of Kosovo is a building that definitely stands out from the rest, consisting out of 73 white domes. The main boulevard in the capital, Sheshi Nena Tereza, is a nice street to stroll through and enjoy a delicious meal or coffee at one of the restaurants. Here we will also pass the Skanderberg square with the statue of Skanderberg himself, the national Albanian hero. We will visit the Old Bazaar in Pristina with nearby the ethnographic museum that shows the traditional Kosovar life. In the late afternoon, our tour of Kosovo will come to an end.

Day 09: Depart Pristina
Departure transfer to airport for flight back to home.

Day 01: Nairobi
Jambo! Welcome to Kenya, your Lonely Planet Experience begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive with time to spare before the meeting, consider getting to know the city on an Urban Adventure like the ‘Nairobi Experience’. This optional 4-hour tour is a great way to get a feel for Nairobi, After the welcome meeting, perhaps join your new travel companions for an optional group dinner.

Day 02: Lake Nakuru National Park
Drive north-west past splendid views of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha and Elementaita to Lake Nakuru National Park (approximately 3–4 hours). Situated in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park is a great location for spotting wildlife, which you will do in an early morning game drive tomorrow. For now, head to a nearby village with your leader. This is a fantastic opportunity to interact with the local folk and get a feel for everyday life here. Enjoy a cooking class and return later in the evening to share the results for dinner.

Day 03: Lake Naivasha
Wake early for breakfast and head into the Lake Nakuru National Park for a game drive in the overland vehicle. Along with the other members of the Big Five, Lake Nakuru is home to rhinos, and there will be a good chance of spotting and photographing one of these magnificent beasts. Driving to your camp near Lake Naivasha (approximately 3 hours). One of the few freshwater lakes in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha has floating islands of papyrus reeds and a border of flat-topped acacias. It’s also home to a healthy population of hippos and a tremendous variety of birds.

Day 04: Lake Naivasha
Enjoy a free day to choose from a variety of optional activities available around Lake Naivasha. Perhaps venture to Hell’s Gate National Park, which boasts beautiful cliffs, gorges, rock towers, volcanoes and a range of geothermal phenomena. Another great choice is to take a boat trip across Lake Naivasha – perhaps the best way to take in the atmosphere of this lush area. If you’re looking for something active, why not hire a bike for the day and make some of your own discoveries, venturing beyond the cacti and olive trees.

Day 05: Loita Hills Maasai Village
Depart Lake Naivasha, making a short stop in Narok to do a spot of food shopping. Continue to Loita Hills (approximately 5–6 hours), home of the Maasai people, We’ll be camping at Tepesua Village, which is known for championing Maasai women’s health and education. Arrive and be welcomed by traditional Maasai warrior song and dance, then your host will explain the details of Maasai warrior training. Take a walk to the community village which was founded to alleviate the poverty of Maasai widows, who traditionally are not allowed to inherit property. The village offers support, safety and economic growth through the ‘Tepesua Widows Income Project’. Spend the evening around a campfire and learn more about their age-old culture and traditions as you share stories with Maasai warriors into the night.

Day 06: Masai Mara National Reserve
Today you’ll travel from Loita Hills to Masai Mara (approximately 1–2 hours). The road is dusty when dry, and could be slippery and muddy when wet, so the going may be slow. The Masai Mara is the quintessential African experience, with sparse open plains, dramatic skies and some of the world’s most tremendous animals. Then it’s time to jump in 4WDs and go for a game drive through the wilderness of the Mara.

Day 07: Masai Mara National Reserve
Venture into the Masai Mara National Reserve for a full day’s game drive in 4WDs. You’ll explore this diverse environment and most likely see a multitude of wildlife. An optional balloon ride over the Mara at sunrise is available today. If you have pre-booked this activity you will be picked up before dawn and driven to the launch site for a safety briefing from your pilot. Then you will glide through the dawn, sometimes at tree height, to get some amazing photo opportunities. Sometimes you will ascend, getting an overview of the enormity of the plains and of the early morning movements of the teeming herds. After landing, you’ll be treated to a bush breakfast, then be returned to your campsite.

Day 8: Nairobi
Say goodbye to the open expanses of the African bush and return to the bustling metropolis of Nairobi (approximately 5–6 hours). End of the tour.

Day 01: Nairobi / Amboseli 
Arrive Nairobi and travel to Amboseli (5 hours), a fantastic park that borders Tanzania where you’ll have fantastic views of the imposing Mount Kilimanjaro. The park has abundant wildlife including herds of elephants, big cats and many birds – it’s a park not to be missed! You’ll arrive in time for lunch at Sopa Lodge, situated in 200 acres of private conservancy just outside Amboseli National Park. Sopa Amboseli has 83 rooms, decorated with Masai themed murals and nicely spaced out in the mature gardens. Afternoon you will head out into Amboseli National Park for a game drive, after which you’ll return to camp for overnight.

Day 02: Amboseli
Game drives in Amboseli National Park, all meals at the lodge.

Day 03: Amboseli / Tsavo West
Wake up early to see the sunrise over the imposing Kilimanjaro, then after breakfast continue your safari onto Tsavo West, which is about a two-hour drive through wilderness. Afternoon game drive and a visit to the Mzima Springs where you may see hippos and Nile crocodiles and many different species of bird. You’ll then return to Kilaguni for dinner and spend your evening relaxing and watching the wildlife arrive at the watering hole overlooked by the lodge’s restaurant, lounge and bar.

Day 04: Tsavo West
Morning and afternoon game drives in Tsavo West National park, with all meals at the lodge.

Day 05: Tsavo West / Nairobi
After breakfast and a short game drive through Tsavo park, you’ll head back to Nairobi. Arrive in time for dinner & overnight in Camp.

Day 06: Nairobi
After a leisurely breakfast the next day, you’ll leave camp and spend the day sightseeing in Nairobi, starting with a visit to the David Sheldrick elephant orphanage in the morning, with lunch at the Karen Blixen Coffee House, followed by a trip to the Giraffe Centre and the Karen Blixen Museum. Alternatively, you could head over to the Nairobi National Park and take a nature walk before returning to camp for dinner & overnight.

Day 07: Nairobi / Lake Nakuru
After breakfast your guide will take you to the Premium Lake Nakuru (3 hours) where you could see over 400 different species of birds, large numbers of white rhinos, the rare Rothschild giraffe and other plains mammals such as lion, zebra and buffalo. On entering the park you will take a game drive on route to your accommodation at Sopa Lodge that has great views over the lake and park; all the rooms are very spacious and are located at the top of a ridge, all with views over the lake. After lunch you’ll head out into the park for a game drive before returning to the lodge for dinner.

Day 08: Lake Nakuru / Lake Naivasha
After a leisurely breakfast, your guide will take you out on a morning game drive through Nakuru National Park. You’ll leave the park late morning and head down the Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha and the Sopa Resort (1.5 hours), where you’ll arrive in time for lunch. The lodge is located close to the lake shore and has beautiful gardens and there is often wildlife wandering around such as bushbuck, zebra and giraffe – and in the evening you may also see hippos grazing on the lawns. The rooms are spacious, Swahili style chalets either with a balcony or a glass fronted lounge area for relaxing and wildlife viewing. After lunch you’ll take a boat safari across the lake where you may see hippos and many species of birds including fish eagles, pelicans and sometimes flamingoes, there will also be a stop along the way at Crescent Island for a short nature walk. After your boat safari, you’ll retire to the lodge for the evening, have dinner and watch the hippos come up from the Lake to graze in Sopa’s grounds.

Day 09: Lake Naivasha / Masai Mara 
After an early breakfast your driver will take you to the open grassland of the Masai Mara (4.5 hours), rich in biodiversity and home to a large variety of bird species and wildlife the Masai Mara offers great game viewing and bird-watching opportunities. Afternoon you’ll head out for a game drive and then spend the next two days exploring the Mara reserve and tracking down all the Big Five.

Day 10: Masai Mara 
Full day game drive in the Masai Mara National Reserve.

Day 11: Masai Mara
Early morning and late afternoon game drives in the reserve with all meals at the lodge.

Day 12: Masai Mara / Nairobi
After breakfast and an early morning game drive, you’ll head back to Nairobi. Arrive Nairobi & tranfser to airport for flight back to home.

Day 01: Welcome to Malta
Welcome to picturesque Malta. A striking Island abundant in character, youll delve further into its 7,000-year history over the next few days. Transfers to your hotel are available at any time.

Day 02: Southern Delights
Venture south to Valletta, Maltas striking capital, with a Local Expert. Once here youll visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens and visit the impressive St. John’s Cathedral, designed in a baroque fashion. Find yourself captivated by the abundance of history as you walk through the elegant streets to see why it is named The Fortress City with its restored golden-stone buildings that mould the cityscape. Continue to the pretty fishing village of Marsaxlokk and wander along its waterfront. Look out at the Mediterannean Ocean and feel completely relaxed as you watch colourful luzzu, traditional Maltese fishing boats, waft in the crystal blue water. For lunch, dine at Capo Mulini and feast on delicious seafood that has been freshly plucked from the ocean. After lunch, there’s time to browse the local area. Perhaps head back to Valetta to wander on the pretty waterfront or to the National Museum of Archaeology. Objects here date back to Maltas Neolithic period and include the iconic carved figurine of the Sleeping Lady. The evening is yours at leisure. Why not ask your Travel Director for some restaurant recommendations or make the most of your hotels amenities?

Day 03: Free time in Sliema
Today is free for you to laze on the rooftop terrace and enjoy the marvellous seascapes from the seafront hotel. Perhaps take a relaxing stroll along the promenade filled with many restaurants and bars. If youre feeling more active, why not take an Optional Experience with lunch on Gozo Island? Calypso Cave, found on the island, is said to be the one Homer wrote about in his acclaimed epic poem, The Odyssey.

Day 04: Free Day in Malta
Your day is at leisure. (Breakfast)

Day 05: Mdina the Silent City
Head to Mdina with a Local Expert in the late afternoon to explore this golden city. Known as the Silent City for its shady streets and peaceful atmosphere.Enjoy a Celebration Dinner at a wonderful local restaurant where youll toast to your trip with your fellow travellers. (Breakfast / Dinner with Wine)

Day 06: Depart Malta
Its time to say goodbye to this beautiful island and your fellow travellers, as a transfer takes you to Malta International Airport for your onward journey.

Day 01: St Julian’s
We’ll meet at airport & transfer to hotel. Welcome to Malta! Accommodation:

Day 02: St Julian’s – Valletta – Birgu – St Julian’s
Our first day of exploration will begin with a locally guided walking tour of Valletta. We’ll stroll by the New Parliament Building, Upper Barrakka Gardens, Grand Harbour and Grandmaster’s Palace, uncovering the tiny capital’s rich history as we go. Then, we’ll enjoy free time to wander the stunning Baroque architecture of St John’s Co-Cathedral. For lunch, unleash your inner chef at a Maltese pizza-making class before sitting down to enjoy your creation. Continuing on, we’ll visit the oldest area in Malta: Birgu – commonly referred to as Città Vittoriosa (Victorious City). We’ll enjoy a walking tour through the city’s ancient narrow streets with a local guide – visiting the likes of the Inquisitor’s Palace and panoramic Gardjola Gardens. After a full day, enjoy an evening spent at your leisure back in St Julian’s. Accommodation:

Day 03: St Julian’s – Mosta – Mdina – St Julian’s
We’ll begin our third day together with a visit to the stunning Mosta Church, before we move on to the beautiful wilderness of the Buskett Gardens. Enjoy some free time wandering the only woodland area in Malta before we continue to the island’s old capital: Mdina, also known as the ‘silent city’. Here we’ll explore the extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque architecture with a local guide and have some free time to enjoy lunch at our leisure. On this afternoon’s agenda: an indulgent wine tasting at a local winery. You’ll find it difficult to find a bottle of Maltese wine back home, so we recommend purchasing a bottle before we return to St Julian’s for an evening spent relaxing at our hotel or exploring the array of restaurants and waterfront bars. Accommodation:

Day 04: St Julian’s
Today is yours to spend entirely at your leisure. You may want to explore on a harbour cruise around the ports of Valletta – a natural treasure trove for photographers. Alternatively, you could spend the day enjoying the stunning views from our hotel’s rooftop terrace or relaxing by the swimming pool. This evening, we recommend venturing out in search of a waterfront alfresco restaurant for some delicious local seafood. Accommodation:

Day 05: St Julian’s – Qrendi – Cirkewwa – Xaghra
Today’s agenda begins with a stop at the Hagar Qim temples, where we’ll have the opportunity to explore this remarkable site with a local guide. Then, we’ll journey onwards the mesmerising Blue Grotto. Enjoy a locally guided boat trip around the phosphorescent coloured bays and complex of limestone caves – before continuing on to the ferry point at Cirkewwa, with a photo stop at Popeye’s Village along the way. After a short speedboat transfer to Gozo, we’ll round off a busy day with a visit to the Dreams of Horses Farm, where we’ll be guided around the equestrian therapy centre by a member of the team. In Xaghra, the evening will be ours to spend exploring at our own pace. Accommodation:

Day 06: Xaghra – Victoria – Xaghra
Today we’ll visit the spectacular megalithic temple complex of Ggantija – the most ancient temples in Malta and boasting an ancient history that’s older than the pyramids of Egypt. After moving on to the imposing Old Citadel in Victoria – the ancient fortified city that can be seen from almost anywhere on Gozo, we’ll roll up our sleeves for a hands-on cheesemaking experience at a local restaurant and enjoy a delectable Maltese lunch. An evening of leisure time is in store for us back at the hotel – but not before we’ve stopped off for a photo or two at the peaceful village of Sannat. Accommodation

Day 07: Xaghra – San Lawrenz – Marsalforn – Xaghra
We may be nearing the end of our journey, but there’s still plenty to explore! First, we’ll stop to visit Fungus Rock – an islet off the coast of San Lawrenz that holds a peculiar history. After hearing the stories from our local guide, we’ll move on to the unusual Xwejni Salt Pans. A 350-year-old checkerboard of rock-cut salt pans, the production of sea salt here has been passed from generation to generation and is a fascinating sight to behold. Before returning to Xaghra, we’ll make a refreshing stop at Xwejni Bay for a dip in the crystal-clear water. Later, we’ll come together for one last dinner together, sharing stories of the week’s adventures. Accommodation:

Day 08: Xaghra – St Julian’s
After a final breakfast and leisurely morning, we’ll catch the ferry back to St Julians’s – where our tour will end later this afternoon.

Day 01: Arrive Antananarivo
Reception at Ivato Antananarivo airport and transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 02: Antananarivo – Antsirabe (3h45 – 171 km)
Departure for the road towards the South, the RN7. Stop at Ambatolampy, 73km from Antananarivo, to discover the workshops of pots and aluminum kitchen utensils manufacturers. Continuation to Antsirabe. We can admire the beautiful landscapes of the Highlands all along the road : sumptuous valleys, small villages, and rice paddies will fascinate you. Arrival in Antsirabe, the spa town, and the first industrial center of Madagascar. It produces two of the most famous brands of beer in the Island. In the afternoon, visit of the mythical Lake Tritriva, one of the most mysterious places in Madagascar. This ancient crater is a site in which two lovers would have drowned themselves because of forbidden marriage, and then they reincarnate as branches intertwined with two neighboring trees coming out of a bank rock. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Antsirabe – Ranomafana (6h – 230 km)
Departure towards Ranomafana. All along the road, we will appreciate the beautiful traditional houses, typical of the highlands. Arrival in Ambositra after 2 hours, workshops visit of the most famous Malagasy artisans; their know-how in marquetry and woodcarving better known as “art zafimaniry”, are so sublime that one can leave the city of Ambositra only after buying their product as a souvenir. After the lunch, continuation to Ranomafana. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 04: Ranomafana – Fianarantsoa (1h30 – 60km)
In the morning, visit of Ranomafana National Park which is part of the Atsinanana humid forests and therefore, registered in the World Heritage Sites of UNESCO. This tourist site is crossed by 25 rivers and is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora, some of which is the rare golden hapalemur, an endangered species. In the afternoon, continuation to Fianarantsoa. Visit of this city and its monuments, among which about fifty religious édifices. It also gained wide reputation thanks to its vineyards, it is the only producer of wine (white, red, rosé and gray wines) in Madagascar. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 05: Fianarantsoa – Ranohira (6h – 285km)
Continuation of the road towards Ranohira. After 60 km, stop at Ambalavao to visit an Antemoro papermaking workshop which is a local handicraft specialty based on avoha, a fibrous bark. 15km further south, visit of the Anja village reserve which is a park created by the inhabitants of this place rich in biodiversity. We can observe the particular makis catta lemur. Continuation to Ranohira with a fascinating crossing of a new type of landscape, that of the Far West of Madagascar. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 06: Ranohira
Day dedicated to the visit of Isalo national park. This ruiniform massif is a 80 000 ha protected area. It is above all the habitat of numerous species of fauna and flora scattered throughout the reserve. Apart from reptiles and lemurs, 77 species of birds live there, which 70% are endemic. Hiking in the canyons, and swimming in natural pools will also be in the program. For the more athletic, possibility to visit the reserve by bike (optional). Towards the end of the afternoon, admiration of the sunset through the Isalo Window, an opportunity to take some pictures postcard landscape. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 07: Ranohira – Ifaty (6h – 265km)
Departure to Ifaty. Crossing of the Mahafaly plateau and its many tombs surmounted by Aloalo (carved wooden posts). The Mahafaly tomb is a funerary art with representative drawings of the deceased’s life. Appreciation of baobabs in the beautiful scenery of the Great South spectacular landscape, then stop for a visit of Antsokay arboretum which is the perfect place for flora lovers since there are about 900 plant species, which 90% are endemic. Arrival in Ifaty in the afternoon, it is the quintessence of the trip to Madagascar for seaside tourism enthusiasts: sun throughout the year, marvellous beach, quad bike ride by the sea, canoe trip, water sports, Overnight at the hotel.

Day 08: Ifaty
Free stay. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 09: Ifaty
Free stay. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 10: Return flight from Tuléar to Antananarivo
Transfer to the airport and return flight to Antananarivo. Reception and transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 11: Antananarivo – International return Flight
Visit of the dike craft market. Transfer to the airport for International Return flight.