Affordable Nature
Classic Escapes introduces a new series of programs under the ‘Affordable Nature’ umbrella. We realize there are many people who dream about experiencing the marvels of our world, but are unable to afford the escalating prices. We’re here to make your dreams come true with incredible destinations and experiences – all at an ‘affordable’ price!
Affordable Nature: Alaska
A veritable bargain at only 7.2 million dollars - that is what the United States paid Russia in 1867 to acquire Alaska. Here is a chance to get your money's worth! Spectacular and massive landscapes of glaciers, icebergs, rivers, waterfalls secluded bays and mountains are home to a myriad of wildlife. Thousands of Bald Eagle, curious black and wary brown bear, noisy harbor seal, playful sea otter and the giants of the ocean, the humpback whale. Jet boats on rivers, thermal springs, observational decks just 30 feet from bear and calving icebergs hurtling towards the surface, and the historic Tlingit people - you'll know this treasured land was worth every penny and more.
Affordable Nature: Australia
Explore the land ‘down under’ without digging deep into your pockets. You will fall in love with the exhilarating beauty of Australia, from unique rainforests and majestic mountains, to Aboriginal heritage and interesting wildlife. Discover rugged landscapes formed by ancient volcanoes alive with kangaroo, koala, wallaby and colorful birds. Let the vibrancy of Sydney refuel you and the wines of Hunter Valley tantalize your tastebuds. Savor tranquil evenings in charming lodges, where the only sound comes from calling birds and restless gliders.
Affordable Nature: Botswana
Botswana is a sought after destination for denizens of wildlife enthusiasts. Exclusive luxury camps in remote locations make it a memorable safari adventure. A journey to Chobe National Park offers some of the highest wildlife concentrations in Africa, of special significance are its elephants – both the largest continuous population and body size in the world. Discover the hidden delights nestled along the winding waterways and deep within the lush landscape of the world’s largest inland water system – the Okavango Delta. Watch the setting sun while gliding through the water in a dugout canoe. In the evenings, surround yourself in an atmosphere of a bygone era at your secluded tented camp, lit only by paraffin lamps – a safari traditionalist’s dream.
Affordable Nature: Costa Rica
Surround yourself with lush rain and cloud forests, brilliantly-colored tropical birds, rare butterflies and white, sandy beaches…no, it’s not a dream! Those luxuries aren’t out of your reach on an adventure to beautiful Costa Rica. Discover one of the most rich and bio-diverse landscapes on earth as you explore Carara Biological Reserve and Manuel Antonio National Park. Be entertained by troupes of squirrel monkeys and look for the slow-moving and incredibly interesting sloths. Secrets of the rainforest will be revealed with ample time to reap the rewards of miles of beaches along the Pacific Coastline.
Affordable Nature: Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands
Discover a painter’s palate of colors splashed over a landscape of craters, cones, rock formations, lava fields and its inhabitants – iguanas, birds, sea lions, crabs and penguins. Set sail to the legendary Islands of the Galapagos, once a living laboratory for Charles Darwin, where creatures remain virtually fearless and unaffected by visitors. Explore the historic sights and exotic sounds of Ecuador’s capital city with an optional excursion to South America’s most famous Indian Fair.
Affordable Nature: Egypt
Behold the mysteries of ancient Pharaohs and pyramids on an adventure to the heart of Egypt along the Nile. Towering monuments, majestic statues and colorful art depicting life that existed centuries ago are part of the everyday landscape and will fill you with a sense of wonder and awe. Experience the romance of desert sands and brilliant sunsets while unlocking the secrets of exotic rulers, crocodile and falcon gods, and the huge paws of the Sphinx. Cruise the Nile River aboard the luxurious M/S TI-YI, named after an Egyptian Queen and filled with royal amenities. Indiana Jones should have been so lucky.
Affordable Nature: India
The vast lands of India beckon you to explore their ancient temples, exotic cultures and magnificent wild tigers. Traverse ancient alleyways by camel, dip your fingers in holy rivers and lakes, and roam the former hunting grounds of royals for the elusive and majestic tiger. Fascinating ‘Old’ and ‘New’ Delhi, ancient city of Varanasi on the holy Ganges River, Khajuraho’s erotic temples of the Chandelas, the medieval townships of Orchaa and Fatehppur Sikri, sacred town of Pushkar, royal history of Jaipur, Agra and the mighty Taj Mahal, and the famed tiger reserve, Ranthambhore National Park – experience all of this while soaking in the country’s rich heritage – affordable never sounded so alluring!
Affordable Nature: Kenya
Imagine wakening to the sounds of a trumpeting elephant and feeling the roar of a lion coursing through your body… forget to breathe while watching a leopard stalking prey…delight in the delicate treetop munching of a giraffe. You don’t have to imagine when you’re on safari – and now cost doesn’t have to stand in your way! Experience Kenya, the original safari destination and home to beautiful landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Explore the harsh terrain of the Samburu Reserve and the flamingo lined shores of Lake Nakuru. And spend three days roaming the rolling hills of the Maasai Mara in search of wildebeest, zebra, impala, ostrich, elephant and rhino. Each evening, share the day’s events while relaxing in luxurious camps underneath the starlit skies of Africa.
Affordable Nature: Namibia
Discover the magnificent landscapes and unique wildlife of Namibia, where apricot-hued desert sands swirl into razor sharp towering dunes, the largest in the world. Marvel at coastal shores spotted with charming seaside towns that map the trials and tribulations of centuries of ocean voyages. Bushwalking and drives in open 4x4 vehicles reward you with the wildlife treasures that inhabit this sometimes rough and harsh terrain. Find out about the latest research and conservation efforts of the Cheetah Conservation Fund to protect this endangered cat, of RARE to protect the Cape Griffon Vulture and of the Rhino Trust’s efforts to preserve this prehistoric creature. Luxury lodges and tented camps make almost dream-like havens for relaxing under the starry skies.
Affordable Nature: South Africa
Discover South Africa on an adventure that brings the sights, smells and sounds of the bush up-close and personal through wildlife drives in open vehicles, unique bush walks, star-gazing and animals that sometimes wander through camp. See dedicated researchers and naturalists in action on in-depth and behind-the-scenes tours. Incredible architecture, both geological and man-made, greets you in cities and canyons. Learn about indigenous and local cultures, from the kingdom of the Rain Queen, to the village of the baPedi tribe, and the town formed by the goldrush. Share the excitement of the day while relaxing around campfires under the magnificent African sky.
Affordable Nature: Tanzania
Discover quintessential African landscapes when you take a walk on the wild side in Tanzania. A relaxed attitude combined with some of the best wildlife spotting on the continent is within affordable reach. Your safari hits all of the incredible spots, from the unique eco-system of Ngorongoro Crater, the vast savannahs of the Serengeti, and the flamingo-lined shores of Lake Manyara. Along the way, enjoy lunch at eco-friendly Gibb’s Farm and see where the roots of modern man were unearthed by the Leakeys. An unforgettable adventure awaits you.
Affordable Nature: Zambia
For a one-of-a-kind adventure, nothing beats the unspoiled wilderness of Zambia. A remote locale of rich volcanic soil has given way to pristine landscapes teeming with wildlife, even some you won’t spot anywhere else in Africa, such as Thornicroft’s giraffe. Drives in open 4x4 vehicles get you up-close, but for even better views, try a walking safari to see the swish of a lion’s tail as it disappears into the bush. Your journey comes to an end at Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, where your riverboat journeys down the Zambezi River kissed by the vivid hues of sunset.
