Choose the less frequented path to Machu Picchu and be rewarded with authentic, immersive, and exclusive experiences. Take in the ancient history and living culture of Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit the archeological site of Chinchero and the market at Pisaq. Take a Peruvian cooking class. Stay in deluxe mountain lodges along the Lares Trail and tailor your experience with adventure activities and cultural encounters. Explore the remarkable complex of Machu Picchu. This trip is designed to rejuvenate the soul.

Journey into one of the world’s most remote regions on an 11-day Peruvian expedition that includes one night in the capital city of Lima, a three-night Amazon River cruise, two nights in the lush Sacred Valley, two nights in colonial Cuzco and one unforgettable night at the majestic “lost city of the Incas” — Machu Picchu. Experience the natural beauty of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve and explore ancient Inca history on this incomparable itinerary.

Discover the incredible wildlife and wonders of South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. From colorful Cape Town to Victoria Falls, historic Soweto to Robben Island, every moment of this 12-night journey will inspire. Experience famous safari destinations: Chobe National Park, Hwange National Park and Kapama Private Game Reserve. Plus, enjoy three nights aboard the opulent Rovos Rail.  

Journey from Barbados in the Caribbean to Belém, the old city of Brazil situated at the mouth of the mighty Amazon River. Experience the beautiful scenery in Trinidad, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Brazil’s lower Amazon River. Take an air excursion to see the impressive Kaieteur Falls, the world’s largest single-drop waterfall. In the riverine Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, learn about the largest Dutch territory in the Western world. Spend three days exploring the lower Amazon River region, an amazing system of tributaries that harbors abundant species of wildlife, and remote communities. An optional extension from Belem to Salvador, Brazil is available.

Mystical and spiritual, chaotic and confounding, India overflows with riches.  Experience Old Delhi and New Delhi. Continue to Jaipur, the “pink city” and enjoy dinner in a Rajasthan family’s home.  At Ranthambore National Park search for the elusive Bengal tigers on game drives.  Marvel at the sublime Taj Mahal in Agra. In Varanasi, cruise along the Ganges and discover nearby Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s holiest sites.  Optional 6-day/4-night post-tour extension to Nepal.

From Provence to Lyon, Burgundy to Paris, bask in the history and art, culture and cuisine that marks these cherished spots. Begin in Aix-en-Provence, “City of Fountains,” then continue on to Arles and Roman-influenced Nimes. In Avignon enjoy a Provençal cooking class. Visit Les Beaux to see Carrieres de Lumiere, a multimedia art exhibit.  In Lyon, explore the ruins of the Gallo-Roman theater and view jaw-dropping street art. Embark on a cruise over pristine Lake Annecy, before making your way to the Burgundy wine region. Travel to historic Dijon, known for its rich history and culture. Lastly, spend two wonderful nights exploring Paris, the city of love.

Journey into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and join a carefully curated program. Meet developers in the old city of Jeddah, visit the UNESCO site of Riad Aljima, and the well-preserved Nabataean tombs, considered more extensive than Petra. Marvel at the open-air library of Jabal Ikmah where thousands of pre-Islamic inscriptions line the cliffs.  With special permission we experience Medina, the Kingdom’s second holiest city considered the cradle of Islamic culture and civilization. In Riyadh see the UNESCO-listed site of At-Turaif in Diriyah. In Dammam (the headquarters of the country’s oil company ARAMCO) visit the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, an arts center developed by Saudi Aramco incorporating a museum, library, cinema, auditorium, and lecture halls. Join an optional post-trip extension to Bahrain.

Experience the vibrant contrasts of South Korea, where ancient traditions blend with modern innovation. Stroll through peaceful hanok villages surrounded by the colors of autumn and explore the dynamic streets of Seoul. Delve into the nation’s rich history with visits to royal palaces, traditional neighborhoods, and the Demilitarized Zone, where the story of North and South Korea unfolds. Journey to Jeju Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, to admire its volcanic landscapes and coastal beauty. Meet the Haenyeo, the remarkable women free-divers. Enjoy authentic cultural experiences—sip tea with a Buddhist monk, try your hand at Korean cooking, and share tea in a village home.

The romantic Douro River winds through northern Portugal, creating a landscape of sculpted hills and terraced vineyards. Begin your journey exploring the Spanish cities of Madrid and Salamanca. Then embark on a 7-night cruise aboard the Ama Vida from picturesque, medieval Barca d’Alva to Porto, a delightful mosaic of scarlet and gold architecture. Taste locally produced olives, almonds, breads and cheeses, and of course, port–the famous sweet, fortified wine the area is known for. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Alto Douro’s winemaking history, witness beautiful Portuguese tile artwork and explore charming villages . Madrid and Lisbon extensions are available.

Venturing to Antarctica is an expedition like no other–a chance to explore wonderlands of sculpted snow and ice where whales swim, penguins flock and albatross soar. Cruise the Drake Passage one way, and then bypass the Drake on the way back on a 2-hour flight. Travel with a team of experts aboard the National Geographic Explorer, the definitive expedition ship. Venture into channels and coves framed by towering peaks. Watch for whales off the bow; Zodiac cruise around enormous icebergs; and hike or kayak. Plus, get top shots with the help of a National Geographic Photography Expert.