Highlights: 

• With included wildlife viewing experiences like game drives, tracking walks and safaris, you are guaranteed to encounter a diverse array of Africa’s iconic wildlife.
• Wake up before dawn and scramble to the top of a massive Sesriem dune for a dramatic sunrise view across a vast sea of undulating sand.
• Glide down Botswana's Okavango Delta on a mokoro, with a local at the helm using a pole to guide your journey through the rich waterways.
• Discover the largest ruins in sub-Saharan Africa – Great Zimbabwe. This World Heritage-listed site dates back to the 11th century.
• Chill out on the white sands of Zanzibar’s northern beaches and spend a night exploring the ornate alleyways of Stone Town

This trip is right for you IF: 

• This is an overland trip. That means you’ll be travelling with a group in a purpose-built vehicle, visiting remote communities, setting up your own tent and occasionally roughing it in the bush with no facilities – but unrivalled access to the wilderness. 
• We use mokoros (small dugout canoes) to pass through the shallow waterways of the Okavango Delta to get to our campsite for the night.
• At Usambara Mountains the group will do an easy hike to the beautiful Irente viewpoint.
• Camp in the Serengeti National Park itself without fences between you and the animals. Your leader will brief you on the safety measures the group will need to take for the two nights spent in the park.
• There are many optional activities on this trip. Please take this into consideration when budgeting.
• As the early bird catches the worm, the early camper sights the animals. There will be many early starts either to make use of the better safari time or to beat the morning traffic on long travel days.

Important notes

•  A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 7,8,9 (Chalet) and Day 17(Camping) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.

• An optional sunrise balloon ride in the Serengeti National Park is possible on this itinerary. As the balloon only holds 16 people, places are limited and we recommend you book in advance. Please inquire when booking your trip to secure a place for this optional activity.
• This trip is a combination  of our most popular itineraries. As such the make up of your group and your leader may change on Days 22, 38 and 41.
• The Zanzibar portion of your itinerary may have a few more passengers than 22 as we have a a couple of tours that overlap in Zanzibar.
• This trip starts in Cape Town on Day 1 at 6pm. This allows time after the welcome meeting to explore Cape Town. This trip finishes upon arrival in Nairobi on Day 49. Please do not book any flights until 10 pm on this evening.

Highlights:

• Enjoy daily Zodiac excursions to iconic landing sites, abundant with birdlife and busy penguins, and witness icebergs in a thousand different shades of blue.
• Experience almost endless daylight in high summer once you are inside the Antarctic Circle. Then, push further south than most Antarctic expeditions venture, exploring the remoteness of this less-visited part of the Antarctic Peninsula.
• Customize your trip with a wide range of optional activities on top of regular Zodiac excursions. Explore the water by kayak, sign up for a photography masterclass, rejuvenate with onboard yoga and massages or take a refreshing polar plunge.
• While most polar expeditions of this kind have a crew-to-passenger ratio of ten, fifteen or twenty to one, Intrepid expeditions on the Ocean Endeavour have an expedition crew member for every eight passengers for a greater personal touch.
• Our experienced leaders have made hundreds of polar voyages between them. They’re experts in marine biology, glaciology and Antarctic history, and they’ll share their knowledge throughout the journey during a comprehensive lecture program.

This trip is right for you IF: 

• The Ocean Endeavour is an ice-strengthened ship – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas however, we do have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix.  
• Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but it also can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll provide you with waterproof boots on loan that are sturdy and warm, as well as an inner jacket that is yours to keep. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to pack. 
• Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. The Ocean Endeavour has a lift, but you’ll need to take the stairs to get to the gangway and some other parts of the ship that the lift does not provide access to. 
• The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area like the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations – which are just as interesting and beautiful! We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty on onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the wellness spa, saunas, gym and yoga classes will keep you fresh for when the weather clears. 

Important notes:

International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.

SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONS

You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of USD 1,000  person per trip for your booking to be confirmed. Full payment is required 95 days prior to departure. Please refer to our “Booking and Conditions” section on our website including the special conditions that apply to Antarctica

Voyages.

ADVENTURE OPTIONS

• Approaching a looming glacier in a sea kayak, strapping on snowshoes to reach the best icy viewpoints, capturing the perfect photo of a seal hunting its prey or camping under an Antarctic perpetual twilight – these are just some of the ways you can enrich your exploration of the great White Continent with our additional activities. A range of Paid Adventure Options is available on the Ocean Endeavour, on selected voyages, subject to availability. Your booking agent can assist with availability and pricing.
• • Kayaking or Photography program - Voyage-duration program available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent.
• • Day Paddle or Stand Up Paddleboarding - One-off excursion available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent. Additional spaces may be available to book on board via the Expedition Team

Highlights: 

• Spend four nights aboard the Solaris with a knowledgeable naturalist guide
• Experience incredible wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities with near-tame animals
• Enjoy a high chance of spotting waved albatrosses, blue- and red-footed boobies, giant tortoises, sea lions and marine iguanas

Is this trip right for you?

• Perfect for wildlife lovers, photographers, and those interested in history or geology.
• Some walking on rough terrain; ability to swim and tolerate heat enhances the experience.
• Landings are regulated with limited flexibility in poor weather.
• Wet and dry landings from small dinghies, sometimes wading through shallow water.
• Opportunities to swim with sea lions, rays, and turtles. Strong currents at times, but safety measures in place. Wetsuits recommended.
  

Important notes:

•  Mixed international group, occasionally younger than Mad expeditions minimum age.

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.

• A total deposit of $1400 is required at booking to secure your spot. If the trip is canceled, you will receive a full refund. Cancellation terms are slightly different from the standard Exodus Booking Conditions due to the nature of this trip: 

1. 90–65 days before departure: loss of deposit (20%
2. 64 days or less (or failure to join): 100% of the trip cost

Venture past the Blue Mountains to the forested and artisanal heart of New South Wales on this five-day Warrumbungles adventure. From Sydney, jump on the road with a group of like-minded travellers bound for regional delights, including produce tastings, wilderness walks through verdant national parks, visits to The Dish observatory and the Three Sisters lookout, and local insight into First Nations cultures in the area. Passing by Katoomba, Orange, Mudgee and a whole host of local outposts, you’ll get a true sense of what regional Australia is all about – keeping it local and nothing but laidback.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Sydney – Blue Mountains – Orange
Welcome to Sydney! Your adventure begins this morning at a centrally located point – check the ‘Joining Point Instructions’ of your Essential Trip Information for further details. Once you’ve introduced yourself to your group leader and travel group, it’s time to hit the road! Leave the city behind, take a coffee stop en route and begin breathing in the fresh air of the Blue Mountains. Your first stop is one of Australia’s most renowned vistas – the Three Sisters and Echo Point Lookout. Stretch your legs and have your camera handy for some awesome shots. Continue your journey west hugging the range, keeping your eyes peeled for kangaroos, emus and wedge-tailed eagles in and above the plains. Grab yourself some lunch as you continue your drive towards Orange, arriving in the mid-afternoon. After a reasonable amount of driving today, it’s time to relax. Join the group as your friendly hosts provide a spread of local wines and produce to welcome you to regional NSW. Afterwards, freshen up then keep the festivities going for an included welcome dinner and drink. Today is all about introductions, so after dinner perhaps head with a couple of your newfound mates for a shot of pool and a couple of drinks.

Accommodation

• Hotel (1 Night)

Included Activities

• Orange - Welcome dinner
• Orange - Wine flight & tasting platter
• Blue Mountains - Three Sisters & Echo Point

Optional Activities

Meals

• Dinner

Day 2: Parkes – Warrumbungle National Park
Thinking that just because you’ve left Sydney, the brunch scene won’t follow you? Think again. Treat yourself to a gourmet breakfast at an Orange cafe with your group, with sweet and savoury options, plus some great coffee. Continue towards Parkes – home of the mighty CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope. The Dish, made famous by the 2000 Australian film of the same name, has been crucial in receiving data from space exploration, including during the Apollo 11 mission. After exploring the site, continue to Warrumbungle National Park. Formed over millions of years, the Warrumbungle region is a bushwalker, birdwatcher and stargazer’s dream. This afternoon, hear from a local ranger the First Nations history of this area – the wildlife, nature, geography and cultural significance of this land. Take the time to ask questions and understand the importance of this region to traditional owners. Afterwards, retire to your nearby accommodation, nestled in a valley and flanked by the Castlereagh River. Tonight, head to Peter Starr’s Warrumbungle Observatory and experience an eye-opening 90-minute astronomy and stargazing presentation. Learn about how to navigate the night sky, see up to four telescopes in action, and get the chance to snap some incredible shots of the Milky Way. This area is home to Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, so no pollution or light will impede your view of constellations on full display.

Accommodation

• Motel (1 Night)

Included Activities

• Parkes - CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope ("The Dish")
• Warrumbungle NP - Spirey View Track walk
• Warrumbungle NP - Whitegum Lookout

Optional Activities

Meals

• Breakfast

Day 3: Warrumbungle NP
Enjoy a hearty included breakfast, then head back to visit the Warrumbungle National Park another time on a leader-led walk. Depending on your group’s desires and fitness level, there is a range of walks in the national park that you can discuss at the visitor centre, including the Spirey View Track (approximately 2 hours) or to Whitegum Lookout (30 minutes). There may even be some better trails if you are all interested in a spot of birdwatching this morning. Later in the afternoon, you have plenty of time to explore the area at your own pace, or instead simply chill out back at your accommodation. Here, there’s a pool and a three-hole golf course, so take your pick at how you’ll relax!

Accommodation

• Motel (1 Night)

Included Activities

• Warrumbungle NP - Warrumbungle Observatory night sky experience
• Warrumbungle NP - Guided walk

Optional Activities

Meals

• Breakfast

Day 4: Warrumbungle NP – Mudgee
Have some breakfast with your group surrounded by the mountains before setting off on a drive towards the historical, cultural and epicurean highlights of the region. Make your way to the regional town of Gulgong, home to the Henry Lawson Museum – the revered Australian writer and bush poet. After soaking up some stanzas and Gulgong’s small-town feel, continue to Mudgee, where you’ll head to a couple wine and produce tastings at local haunts. If you haven’t realised by now, regional NSW is renowned for its high quality and locally sourced produce, and especially wines. And while on holiday, it’s all the more reason to get a true taste of a place, so indulge yourself! Tonight, celebrate your regional NSW adventure with your group, perhaps with dinner and some drinks in town. There are plenty of places within walking distance of your comfortable accommodation tonight, so ask your leader their recommendations.

Accommodation

• Motel (1 Night)

Included Activities

• Warrumbungle NP - Morning guided walk
• Mudgee - Wine & produce tasting

Optional Activities

Meals

• Breakfast

Day 5: Hunter Valley – Sydney
Continue to be impressed by regional NSW’s food scene with some breakfast at a local cafe, before joining the travel group in your private vehicle for a road trip back to Sydney via the back roads through Broke, Woollobi and the renowned Hunter Valley. Today is a relaxed day with plenty of stops along the way to stretch your legs, buy some food and appreciate the scenery at viewpoints. Plus in the afternoon, you’ll stop by a boutique winery in the Hunter Valley for a tasting, further reinforcing how good the region’s drop is. Arrive back in Sydney in the late afternoon, bound for the central Mcleay Hotel, where the tour finishes on arrival.

Included Activities

• Hunter Valley - Wine Tasting

Optional Activities

Meals

• Breakfast