National Geographic Expeditions
OFFER ID 1583492
Travel the world by a luxurious private jet as you visit iconic sights from Easter Island to the Taj Mahal to the Serengeti Plain, immersing yourself in the people and cultures of these magnificent destinations. You’ll also learn about every location from an engaging team of experts who will share their knowledge and insights with you throughout your journey.
23 nights from $104,995 per person
The scenic, terraced town of Paro sits in the shadow of 24,000-ft/7,320-m Mount Chomolhari (divine mountain). Paro has Bhutan's only airport, so most travelers arrive there. Though it's really only a large village, three nights are recommended to get used to the altitude, as well as to see the many sights related to Paro's days as capital of the western region.
Among those sights are the 350-year-old Ta Dzong (now the National Museum), the Rinchen Pung or Paro Dzong (sacred scrolls, icons, and the like), where scenes from Bertolucci's Little Buddha were shot, the restored seventh-century Kyichu Lhakhang (holy temple) and the Dungtse Lhakhang (temple). Also worth seeing is the Drugyel Dzong, named after a famous victory of the Bhutanese over Tibetan invaders (about 9 mi/14 km northwest of town).
If you're in Paro on a Sunday morning, be sure to visit the colorful market, where grains, chilies, oranges, bananas and a host of other items are sold. The Paro Tsechu festival is held late March-April.
On a full-day trip, it's possible to visit the Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), built on a rock ledge overlooking a sheer 2,600 ft/800 m drop to the Paro Valley. It is accessible only on foot or by pony as far as the viewpoint. According to legend, the monastery was founded by Guru Rimpoche, who landed there on the back of a flying tiger.
Just 20 minutes north of Port Douglas, Daintree is just waiting to be explored.
People come from far and wide to journey through Daintree's ever-changing tropical
landscape. White sandy beaches lined with palms, waving cane fields and jungle
clad misty mountains are all at your fingertips. The forests of Daintree are
home to an amazing array of plants, animals and insects. Keep your eyes peeled
for wildlife lurking at every turn, birds flying above, butterflies floating
in the air. The rainforest was added to the World Heritage List in1988 due in
part because it contains such significant habitats for conservation of biological
diversity.
Activities include hiking trails, scenic look outs, camping, picnic tables
and swimming. It is possible to take a privately owned vessel up the Daintree
river, but the river is infested with crocodiles.
Accommodations in Daintree range from rural cabins, farmstays, bed and breakfasts
and world renown spa resorts.
In the Daintree Village, you can catch a glimpse into Australia's colorful
past and experience the laid back atmosphere.
Huacas and Shrines on a bike (Lima - 4 hours)
Lima is a big and modern city, it has been in continuous occupation for almost 2,000 years. Scholars have found more than 30 archaeological sites at different locations within the city limits. “HUACAS” are pyramidal constructions with superimposed platforms ending on a flat top, they were used for religious and administrative purposes by prehispanic civilizations along the Peruvian coast.
Our specialized Guide and his assistant will pick you up at the hotel with the bikes and the necessary equipment for the activity. After the briefing you will ride along one of the principal avenues of Lima towards the heart of Miraflores while enjoying the architecture and everyday life of the city folks. The first stop is at Huaca Pucllana, built 1,300 years ago, this visit is a great introduction to the history of Lima, traditions, cuisine and economic activities of ancient inhabitants. Then, we continue to the commercial and financial district, San Isidro, to visit Huaca Huallamarca, which has been through a magnificent restoration by the City Hall, you´ll appreciate the contrast between history and modern life. Finally, we return to the hotel completing a 12 km circuit on the bike. This activity is offered for mornings and afternoons. It lasts for 4 hours. The advantage of being at sea level and our moderate weather is that we can provide it all year round. We include a vehicle as support in case someone in the group decides to stop biking during the tour.
Highlights:
Historical and Natural Sanctuaries (Lima - 6 hours)
Highlights:
The south limits of Lima house two important sanctuaries for the visitor: Villa Wetlands, a natural reserve holding a great variety of flora and fauna, its bodies of water attract a good array of biodiversity, they have identified more than 200 species of resident and migratory birds. And Pachacamac, historical sanctuary and important ceremonial center of the central coast in Perú, it was occupied by 4 consecutive civilizations before the arrival of the Spanish.
Our specialized guide and the vehicle will pick you up at the hotel. It´s necessary to reach Villa Wetlands early in the morning to enjoy the ecosystem. You walk for 2 km. around a lagoon facing the ocean with good opportunities for pictures and a clear understanding of the migratory patterns. The next stop is Pachacamac, the highlights of this massive archaeological site are visited. You will also enter the Site Museum displaying important pieces found during excavations, one of them is the wooden idol of Pachacamac, the most important prehispanic god in this area, carved in local wood more than a thousand years ago.
Return to the hotel is after noon, the activity takes almost 6 hours and you walk almost 5 km during the visits.
Tour Duration: 6 hours
Tour can operate: daily (excepts Monday)
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Walking the history center of Lima (4 hours)
WHAT YOU'LL VISIT
Depart the pier to Lima's main square where the Spanish conqueror, Francisco Pizarro, founded the "City of Kings" in 1535. The Government Palace, Lima City Hall, Archbishop's Palace, and the Lima Cathedral surround the square.
Lima was founded to be the capital and most important town of the Spanish domain in South America until the 18th century. The Historical Center represents the model of architecture and urban planning of Spanish colonial cities with high political, economic and cultural importance, as devised by Charles V in 1542.
Our expert Guide will take you to the colonial section of Lima, you will walk among historical monuments, religious and political buildings located within the perimeter declared Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 1988. This learning experience will allow you to appreciate typical examples of Hispanic American baroque style as well as some other different styles like Art Nouveau.
Besides the stops for great pictures of Limenian architecture, you will have the opportunity to visit Casa de Aliaga, a mansion still inhabited by the same family since the foundation of the city, an extraordinary experience that will take you back in time. To finish the experience, we will visit the Dominican Convent, which was the first catholic order to arrive in Perú with Francisco Pizarro and they have a lot of history, traditions, and sainthood to impress our travelers.
Highlights:
The Amano Textile Museum (4 hours)
WHAT YOU'LL VISIT
This excursion brings us to the Amano Textile Museum, renowned globally for its extensive collection of archaeological artifacts from pre-Columbian Peruvian civilizations, as well as the significant efforts of Mr. Yoshitaro Amano in safeguarding the world's global textile heritage. The museum's inception followed Mr. Amano's decision to settle in Peru, leveraging his success as a Japanese entrepreneur.
During his journeys across Peru, Mr. Amano encountered relics abandoned by grave robbers. Recognizing their cultural importance, he dedicated a substantial portion of his time to recovering and preserving these artifacts scattered throughout Peru's coastal deserts. These treasures were then exhibited in his residence in Miraflores.
The Amano family remains deeply committed to advancing conservation and research initiatives centered on Peru's textile legacy, in accordance with the vision of the museum's founder, while also paying homage to his memory.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate level of activity (easy walking for short distances/stairs)
DURATION: 4 Hours
(Suggested) Departure Time(s) 10:30 and/or 14:30
Note: Filming and photography are not permitted in the Amano Textile Museum, we suggest leaving your cameras in the bus.
WHAT YOU'LL VISIT
This excursion brings Larco Museum, founded by Rafael Larco Hoyle in 1926, to showcase ancient Peruvian history through its extensive collection of artifacts spanning 5000 years. Housed in an 18th-century viceroyalty mansion built atop a pre-Columbian pyramid, the museum is renowned for its erotic pottery, accessible archives, and beautiful gardens. Andres Alvarez Calderon, actual owner of the collection, emphasizes the importance of museums in preserving humanity's heritage and engaging the public through immersive experiences.
Since it was established in 1926, the Museo Larco has been acknowledged as a pioneer in terms of public access to its collections. It was one of the first museums in the world to open its storerooms to the public, and to provide online access to its entire collection, encouraging in this way the multidisciplinary research first promoted by its founder.
Larco Museum in focused on storytelling, allowing visitors to connect with Peru's ancient civilizations and their profound relationship with nature and the cosmos.
After this stop reboard the motor-coach to return to the pier.
WHAT YOU'LL SEE ALONG THE WAY
Museo Larco´s collections
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate level of activity (easy walking for short distances)
DURATION: 4 Hours
(Suggested) Departure Time(s) 09:00 and/or 14:00
Flash photography is not permitted in the Museum.
Includes:
Washington DC: Deluxe Private DC Monuments & Memorials Pedicab Tour - 3 Hours
Washington DC: Washington DC by Land & Sea Private Experience
Washington DC: Timeless Essentials DC Classic Package - 2 Days
Highlights:
Picture this...you just touched down in the nation's capital. You bypass the taxi queue & head to the luxury car that awaits to whisk you away on an amazing DC adventure. And what an adventure it is! You'll find yourself standing in awe of the iconic monuments, majestic memorials, historic landmarks & stately buildings that DC is known for on a private guided walking tour of your choice. You'll explore one of four completely unique museums, uncovering the wonders it holds & the tales it tells. All this & more awaits. Let us plan your stress-free visit to DC curated to your unique interests!
Your Ride Awaits: Your luxury experience starts when you’re met inside the airport with a smile by your friendly driver – who’ll be holding a sign with your name on it.
Driver gratuity included.
Let’s Customize: From there you get to choose the rest of your adventures – in no particular order! (Don’t worry – our Experience Designers will help you create the perfect itinerary based on your interests.)
Time To Explore: Enjoy a 4-hour private walking tour complete with an expert tour guide who’ll enlighten you with historical facts, entertain you with fun antidotes, share little-known secrets and point out hidden gems. Check out your choices below – or – we can customize a tour based on your interests and passions.
Gratuity for the tour guide is not included.
A Museum Is A Must: Your experience also includes general admission to one of four of DC’s most unique museums – which you can stroll through at your leisure. Choose from the mesmerizing Museum of Illusions, the innovative Artechouse, the interactive International Spy Museum or the transformative Museum of the Bible.
Until We Meet Again: When your unforgettable experience in our nation’s capital comes to an end, you’ll be met at your hotel by your driver for your private transfer back to the airport via luxury vehicle.
Tour Duration: Multiday
Tour Can Operate:
The starting time and date of the package is customizable to fit your schedule.
This package is offered all year round, 7 days a week.
Restrictions may apply depending on the date and time of the tour.
Additional charges may apply for food and specialty tours.
We can customize the tour and stops to fit your needs upon request.
Wheelchair Accessible: Please inquire with your sales representative.
Physical Activity Level: Easy
Inclusions:
Roundtrip Airport Transfers (from DCA or IAD) to metropolitan DC via luxury vehicle including bottled water, driver gratuity and inside meet & greet upon arrival**
Choice of a 4-hour Private Walking Tour that can include our National Archives Tour, Treasures of America or Walking the National Mall or you can even create your own!
Choice of General Admission to either the Museum of Illusions, Artechouse, International Spy Museum of the Museum of the Bible
24-hour support phone number
Special Welcome Gift
Exclusions:
*Gratuity for the tour guide is not included.
*4-Hour Walking Tour does not include indoor admissions but can be added for additional cost.
**Airport transfers from BWI available for additional cost. Airport Meet and Greet available with sedans and SUVs only.
Washington DC: Washington DC Enchanting Holiday Lights Experience - 5 Hours
Highlights:
Discover the holiday charm of DC with our Enchanting Holiday Lights Experience. Your night begins with a cozy pedicab ride - complete with a blanket and a hot chocolate stop to keep you warm. Marvel at the capital's festive decor like the National Christmas Tree, along with its luminous monuments that shine year-round. Afterward, head to the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze and Holiday Market - Enchant DC. Here you'll enjoy VIP access to an exclusive lounge with complimentary refreshments and skip-the-line access as you wander through a maze lit by millions of lights and more - making this a magical night to remember!
Itinerary: (This is a suggested itinerary – we can customize based on your preferences.)
Your Private Pedicab Awaits: Your nighttime adventure begins when you are picked up at your hotel – or another pre-determined location of your choice – by your expert tour guide/pedicab driver. Your pedicab comes complete with a blanket and a canopy to keep you toasty warm! And just to ensure you stay warm there will also be a pit stop for some tasty hot chocolate during your night on the town.
Dashing Through The Nation's Capital: From there you’re off to take in some of the city’s most beautiful holiday décor. What might you see? Those festive sites could include the National Christmas Tree, the National Menorah, the State Trees at the White House, the Capitol Christmas Tree, the Canadian Embassy Display and the City Center Holiday Tree and Display. It will also include the monuments and memorials that light up our nation’s capital year round and perhaps a shopping stop at the downtown Bazaar Market!
You'll Be A-Mazed: After your pedicab escapade comes to an end your driver will drop you off at your final stop for the evening - Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park. Here you’ll enjoy VIP status as you bypass the line to head into this seasonal site to be seen where you’ll have express entry to all its attractions. Once inside you can make your way through the world's largest Christmas light maze (with over 4 million lights!), glide across the ice (additional cost) or shop at the holiday market. You’ll also enjoy access to the VIP lounge where you’ll enjoy a complimentary welcome beverage along with unlimited coffee and soft drinks as you sit back and relax while soaking up the holiday spirit that surrounds you.
Tour Duration: 5+ Hours
Tour Can Operate:
The starting time and date of the tour are customizable to fit your schedule.
Enchant DC is open from November 24th through December 30th.
November 24th through December 13th: Open Thursday through Sunday
December 14th through December 30th: Open Daily
Restrictions may apply depending on the date and time of the tour.
Wheelchair Accessible: Please inquire with your sales representative.
Physical Activity Level: Easy
Inclusions:
*3 to 4 hour pedicab tour (pedicab comes complete with blankets and canopy with protective covering)
*Pit stop for Hot chocolate
*VIP Admission to Enchant Christmas
*Pedicab Holiday Lights Tour (Between 3 and 4 hours)
*Special Edition DC Guidebook (not available to the public)*
Exclusions:
*Gratuity for the pedicab driver is not included.
Washington DC: Iconic Essentials DC Premium Experience - 12 Hours
Highlights:
Imagine…you've landed in the nation's capital, bypassing taxis for a private luxury car ready to take you on a thrilling DC adventure. An adventure where you’ll embark on a tour via luxury vehicle where your private guide will delve deeper into the majestic monuments, iconic memorials and historic landmarks you see along the way. One where you'll visit a museum of your choice - offering unique wonders and stories - to explore at your leisure. Our Timeless Essentials Premium Experience is more than an introduction to this prestigious city - it's an immersion into it that you'll never forget.
Itinerary: (This is a suggested itinerary – we can customize based on your preferences.)
Your Ride Awaits: Your luxury experience starts when you’re met inside the airport with a smile by your friendly driver – who’ll be holding a sign with your name on it.
Driver gratuity included.
Let’s Customize: From there you get to choose the rest of your adventures – in no particular order! (Don’t worry – our Experience Designers will help you create the perfect itinerary based on your interests.)
Time To Explore: Enjoy a 4-hour private tour with an expert guide in the comfort of a private luxury vehicle. Your guide will enlighten you with historical facts, entertain you with fun antidotes, share little-known secrets and point out hidden gems. Check out your choices below – or – we can customize a tour based on your interests and passions.
Gratuity for the tour guide is not included.
*African American Heritage Tour
*Arlington National Cemetery Georgetown
*Embassy Row
*DC Highlights
*Circle of Power
*DC Essentials
A Museum Is A Must: Your experience also includes general admission to one of four of DC’s most unique museums – which you can stroll through at your leisure. Choose from the mesmerizing Museum of Illusions, the innovative Artechouse, the interactive International Spy Museum or the transformative Museum of the Bible.
Until We Meet Again: When your unforgettable experience in our nation’s capital comes to an end, you’ll be met at your hotel by your driver for your private transfer back to the airport via luxury vehicle.
Tour Duration: Multiday
Tour Can Operate:
The starting time and date of the experience is customizable to fit your schedule.
This experience is offered all year round, 7 days a week.
Restrictions may apply depending on the date and time of the tour.
Wheelchair Accessible: Please inquire with your sales representative.
Physical Activity Level: Easy
Inclusions:
Roundtrip Airport Transfers (from DCA or IAD) to metropolitan DC via luxury vehicle, driver gratuity and inside meet & greet upon arrival**
Choice of a 4-hour Private with Guide and vehicle that can include any of the following:
*African American Heritage Tour
*Arlington National Cemetery
*Georgetown
*Embassy Row
*DC Highlights
*Circle of Power
*DC Essentials
Choice of General Admission to either the Museum of Illusions, Artechouse, International Spy Museum of the Museum of the Bible
Exclusions:
*Gratuity for the tour guide is not included.
*The 4-Hour Tour does not include indoor admissions but can be added for additional cost.
**Airport transfers from BWI are available for additional cost. Airport Meet and Greet is available with sedans and SUVs only
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.