The Discovery Journeys
Classic Escapes is proud to offer a series of specifically designed itineraries to meet the needs of our travelers. Let us help you discover the beauty of the world on journeys to the best wildlife destinations on Earth. These mostly 10-12 day programs also offer unique extensions allowing for a more extensive exploration of this marvelous planet.
The Discovery Journey to AmazonDiscover the thrill of ancient civilizations and amazing natural history. Explore the world's second longest river, the Amazon, on a 6-Night cruise aboard a vessel. As you journey along the majestic Amazon, an ever-changing panorama of incredibly abundant life greets you. Small villages dot the shoreline and channels weaving through small islands provide glimpses of an astounding variety of wildlife and vast assortment of birds.
The Discovery Journey to Australia
Discover the superlative
nature of Australia where in one awesome journey you will see the
oldest, biggest, brightest and bluest. Experience the exhilarating
beauty of the "land down under" from a river boat cruise
through Daintree - the oldest living rainforest in the world, to snorkeling
along the Great Barrier Reef - the world's largest living organism,
to the kaleidoscope of color in Lamington National Park, to spectacular
views of Sydney's Blue Mountains.
The Discovery Journey to Borneo
Journey to Southeast Asia and discover the hidden delights of Borneo on hikes and river cruises. Explore Kinabalu Park, renowned for its huge range of exotic plants and birdlife. On Selingan Island, swim and snorkel in the South China Sea and observe green and hawksbill turtles nest and hatch. Search for wild orang utans at Danum Valley and proboscis monkeys at Sukau River. Discover an incredible diversity of flora and fauna and a culture that is so unlike our own, and yet so endearing.
The Discovery Journey to Botswana
Adventure is wrapped in luxury in Botswana, where you wing your way from camp to camp on small planes. No lines, no check-in – just the cheerful hello of the pilot as he tosses your duffle in the back of your “taxi in the sky.” The view over the Okavango is spectacular. You fly low enough to witness elephant, giraffe and red lechwe cross the Delta. Explore this natural paradise in open 4x4 vehicles, on foot and in mokoros (dug-out canoe) before returning to your exclusive, luxury camps.
The Discovery Journey to Botswana & Victoria Falls
Experience the euphoria of a southern-African safari to Botswana and Zambia. Begin in Botswana’s Okavango Delta – the earth’s largest inland water system. A wetland wilderness of looping channels, islands forested with palms and wide grassy floodplains, the Delta is home to a magnificent array of exceptional birds and animals. On exhilarating drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles and interpretive bush walks, your professional guides share the wonder of this wetland experience. Then, discover the beauty of Zambia and majesty of Victoria Falls - one of the wonders of the world.
The Discovery Journey to Costa Rica
With its abundance of reefs
and rainforests, concern for conservation, and truly incredible birdlife
and amphibians, Costa Rica is fast becoming the favored destination
for those travelers with less time, but a love for nature. Discover
the secrets of the rainforest from a bird's point of view on the Rainforest
Aerial Tram and by boat as you glide along the natural inland waterways
and canals in Tortuguero National Park. Witness as thousands of turtles
lumber ashore, lay their eggs and return to sea. Watch the spectacular
display of Arenal Volcano's eruptions in the distance as you sip your
drink and enjoy the hot springs. Your head and heart will literally
be in the clouds as you explore Monteverde Cloud Forest, home to over
320 species of birds, including the Resplendent Quetzal.
The Discovery Journey to East Africa: Kenya & Tanzania
Safari is that wonderful Swahili word that means 'journey' but implies - Africa. Experience the magic of East Africa as you journey across some of its most beautiful regions - the Serengeti, Olduvai Gorge, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tsavo West and the Maasai Mara. Discover a kaleidoscope of colors, wildlife and people that have changed little throughout the centuries. What has changed is the ease and comfort of how you see them, staying in luxury lodges and tented camps every step of the way. Encounter the great migration of zebra and wildebeest, and the predators that follow them, either in the Serengeti or the Maasai Mara.
The Discovery Journey to Egypt
Is there any place on earth that reveals the wonder of past centuries quite like Egypt? Discover the monuments and people while cruising down the Nile River aboard the M/S TI-YI passing picturesque villages and fields that have changed little since Pharaonic times. Visit temples dedicated to animal-headed gods dating from the dawn of man, and such famous sites as the Giza pyramids, the temple complex of Karnak, legendary Edfu, and Abu Simbel on the shores of Lake Nasser. Relax each evening in beautiful palace hotels that reflect the majesty of pharaohs, kings and queens.
The Discovery Journey to Egypt & Kenya
Savor some of man and nature’s greatest creations on a cultural and wildlife safari to Egypt and Kenya. Beginning in Cairo, discover the majesty of the Sphinx, Pyramids and treasures of the Pharaohs. Then it’s on to Kenya to experience exciting wildlife viewing at such incredible locations - Samburu, Sweetwaters and the legendary Maasai Mara. Return to Cairo with a chance to discover the lifeblood of Egypt on an optional Nile cruise.
The Discovery Journey to Ecuador & The Islands Of The Galapagos
Aboard the 20-passenger M/Y LETTY
Discover the colorful culture
of Ecuador and experience close encounters with animals found nowhere
else on Earth. Six hundred miles off the coast of Ecuador, Charles
Darwin used the Galapagos Islands as his living laboratory to gather
evidence for his theory of Natural Selection. You can use it to swim
and snorkel with sea lions, come within mere inches of Blue-footed
Boobies and iguanas as mysterious as the volcanic islands they inhabit.
The Discovery Journey to Ecuador & The Islands of The Galapagos
Aboard the 90-passenger M/V SANTA CRUZ
Experience landscapes sculpted throughout the centuries by tumultuous volcanic upheaval and get up-close views of unique wildlife during an adventure to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Ride the Chiva Express through the Andes and become enveloped by the spectacular countryside of extinct volcanoes, indigenous villages and patchwork fields. Explore the highest active volcano in the world - Cotopaxi. Follow in Charles Darwin's footsteps as you investigate his 'living laboratory' and decide if his theory of Natural Selection holds true today. Swim and snorkel among fur seals and penguins, watch Sally Lightfoot Crabs and iguanas scamper across the sand, and witness huge colonies of Blue-footed Boobies, Magnificent Frigatebirds and Waved Albatrosses.
The Discovery Journey to India
The pages of Rudyard Kipling's 'Jungle Book' come alive as you travel through India's ancient civilizations, architectural wonders and lush nature reserves. Thrill to the excitement of watching a magnificent wild tiger stroll through native habitat, explore bamboo thickets and sal forest by elephant back and gaze in wonder at the legendary Taj Mahal. An exotic landscape of rich colors, textures and unique wildlife brimming with cultural wonders, you'll be inspired to pen your own 'Jungle Book.'
The Discovery Journey to Kenya
"All I wanted to do was get back to Kenya," said Ernest Hemingway. You will feel the same way too! Join the vibrant club of those intoxicated with Africa's magic, from its beautiful landscapes and sunsets, to animals and people whose lives have changed little over the centuries. "Do lunch" at Mount Kenya Safari Club before setting off for exciting wildlife viewing in Samburu, Sweetwaters, Lake Nakuru and the Maasai Mara. After sundown, return to luxury lodges and tents pampered by all the modern amenities, yet still immersed in the magic of your natural surroundings.
The Discovery Journey to Kenya
Experience the circle of life where it all began – Africa. As you journey across some of its most beautiful regions – Samburu, Lake Nakuru, and the legendary Maasai Mara, indulge in the magic simplicity of life on safari. Reset your biological clock to the rise and set of the sun. Discover a kaleidoscope of colors, wildlife and people that have changed little throughout the centuries, and at night return to comfortable lodges and tented camps where entertainment is created around the fire much as it has since the beginning of time – telling stories of the past, present and future that seems as infinite as the endless plains of the Mara.
The Discovery Journey to Kenya & Rwanda
Discover the safari life that you've only heard about through books and movies. Roam the African bush where much of the film 'Out of Africa' was set and trek for mountain gorillas in the volcanic hills of Rwanda in the footsteps of Dian Fossey. Nothing will prepare you for your first glimpse of a rare black rhino or a face-to-face meeting with the giant, but gentle, mountain gorilla. Relive the treasured moments of each day while relaxing in luxurious lodges, private cottages and intimate tented camps, some lit only by kerosene lamp or candlelight.
The Discovery Journey to Madagascar
Leapin’ Lemurs! How can you say no to a journey to Madagascar! Lemurs are found only in Madagascar and the neighboring Comoro Islands. A unique blend of French traditionalism and enchanting Malagasy hospitality awaits you as you explore this diverse land – from the stark, rugged beauty of the exotic south and Berenty Reserve, to the unique rock formations in Isalo National Park, to the rice fields along the way and lush rainforest of Perinet Reserve. Round it off with the untamed rainforests of the Masoala, and you have one of the most extraordinary journeys awaiting you with unique creatures surrounding you all the time – from lemurs, to chameleons, to a plethora of endemic birds!
The Discovery Journey to Morocco
Discover the ancient lands and historic cultures of exotic Morocco. Explore the legendary Imperial Cities of Rabat, Fez and Marrakech. Walk in the footsteps of the Berbers, Romans, Jews, Carthaginians and Greeks as you enter ancient Kasbahs and mosques. Experience the environmental wonders of the Atlas Mountains, Dades and Todra Gorges, Jebel Sargho lunarscape, Erg Chebbi sand dunes and the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass. Set foot onto lush, verdant oases filled with the scents of roses and spices. Fall asleep in a Bedouin tent in the desert and a 17th-century Kasbah. Explore the refuge of the endangered Bald Ibis and re-introduced populations of Sahelo-Saharan antelope - Souss-Massa National Park. Get to know the residents of these fabled places while dining and visiting private homes and museums.
The Discovery Journey to Namibia
For a safari experience unique in all the world, journey to Namibia. Be a part of ecotourism in action as you witness the valuable work being done by Save the Rhino Trust, the Cheetah Conservation Fund and the Rare & Endangered Species Trust. Discover the seemingly desolate beauty of its rugged landscape from wildlife drives in the Etosha pan, to trekking for rare desert elephant and rhino in Palmwag. Drive along the legendary Skeleton Coast, and see thousands of seals at Cape Cross. Throughout, your accommodations will be as diverse as the landscape – from castles, to lodges, to tents.
The Discovery Journey to New Zealand
Discover the magical islands of New Zealand and its rich heritage of cultures, from Auckland's Polynesian, Rotorua's Maori, Dunedin's Scottish and to the English charm of Christchurch - this country is a melting pot of traditions and waterways. Cruises along fjords and lakes created from volcanoes and glaciers expose the hidden delights of unspoiled wilderness teeming with native plants, trees and wildlife. Majestic mountains tower overhead while geysers spew water towards the skies. It's no wonder that the 'Lord of the Rings; film trilogy was filmed in this mystical land.
The Discovery Journey to Panama
Discover the lush rainforests, vibrant highlands and prisitne beaches of Panama! Soar through the rainforest canopy at Soberania National Park. Be dazzled by birds along the famous Pipeline Road. Meet the Embera and Kuna tribes and learn about their traditions. Travel by dugout canoe up the Chagres River. Snorkel in the clear waters off San Blas Islands. Cross the legendary Panama Canal. Within a short amount of time, you will experience incredibly diverse environments home to amazing varieties of unique wildlife!
The Discovery Journey to Patagonia
Discover the raw and rugged beauty of Patagonia, Argentina. Enjoy cultured Buenos Aires before exploring Patagonia, a vast land that has been shaped by wind and glacial movements. Highlights include seeing colonies of elephant seals, migrating whales and guanacos at Valdes Peninsula, Magellanic penguins at Punta Tombo, and magnificent glaciers of glimmering ice at Los Glaciares National Park. Optional extensions are available to Iguazu Falls and Torres del Paine in Chile.
The Discovery Journey to Southern Africa
Discover Southern Africa’s cultural and natural treasures on a safari like no other. Begin in Cape Town, with four days to explore South Africa’s ‘Mother City.’ Go to the top of Table Mountain, the tip of the Cape of Good Hope and toast your good fortune at wineries nestled below the Boland Mountains. Experience the thrill of wildlife viewing from open vehicles and even on foot in Kruger National Park, home to an unparallel diversity of wildlife. See the wonders of Blyde River Canyon and the charm of Pretoria before flying to Victoria Falls - one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
The Discovery Journey to the Three Kingdoms of South Africa
Discover the thrill of the safari and timeless lands replete with gorgeous landscapes, untamed wilderness and fascinating cultures. Travel through the three kingdoms of South Africa for an intimate look at life without boundaries, from the top of the highest mountain pass in Africa, to battlefields heavy with the spirits of warriors and armies, and wildlife reserves filled with incredible creatures. Gather around roaring fires for engaging stories from people who have traversed the land for generations and others who have made it their dream. Secluded lodges and camps bring the romance of the safari alive as expert rangers and trackers share their insights and enthusiasm.
The Discovery Journey to Tanzania
Tanzania shares the endless plains of the Serengeti and Maasai culture that existed long before man-made boundaries. Journey into the dawn of time as you pass the stark red-robed Maasai boy herding his cattle and descend 2,000 feet by Land Rover beneath the cloud cover into Ngorongoro Crater, Africa's "Garden of Eden." The amazing wildlife viewing you see as you cross the varied terrain is only enhanced by a visit to Olduvai Gorge where Mary Leakey discovered Zinjanthropus, one of the earliest fossils of man, in 1959. Experience the drama of the
annual migration of zebra and wildebeest in the endless plains of the Serengeti.
The Discovery Journey to Thailand
Experience some of Southeast Asia’s greatest birding and biological riches in Thailand. Beginning in Bangkok discover a country of contrasts – from sleeping Buddhas, floating markets and 14-carat gold temples that glitter in the sun, to the wildlife of Khao Yai, Thailand’s best-known national park, to traditional villages and elephant transportation in Chiang Mai. See this magnificent country’s riches through Udorn ‘Nang’ Jantboworn’s eyes, a premier naturalist guide who has shown hundreds of travelers the beautiful forests, birds, historical ruins and culture of her native land. In Doi Inthanon, you will be accompanied by expert birder Pinit Saeng Kaew, the first birder to ever spot the Ratchet-tailed Treepie in Thailand.
The Discovery Journey to Uganda
Join us on a fascinating journey to Uganda, a sanctuary for more than half the world's mountain gorillas and a haven for primate enthusiasts. With lush grasslands, mountains, impenetrable forests and unusual wildlife, it's an incredible safari experience. Visit friendly chimpanzees and eleven other primates in Kibale Forest. Along the way, stay in luxury lodges and tented camps designed to integrate and emulate the beauty of their natural surroundings while providing modern amenities.
The Discovery Journey to Zambia
Discover Zambia – a huge and untamed wilderness, sparingly inhabited by local tribesmen, rich in animal and bird life. Your daily wildlife-viewing will be by all venues possible – 4x4 open land rover, boat, canoe and by foot. Experience the unparalleled excitement of tracking leopards and lions on foot in South Luangwa National Park and discover the wealth of wildlife that inhabit the banks and islands of the Lower Zambezi National Park. At night, return to the safari chic comfort of chalet and tented camps for more wildlife viewing from your private verandah and thatched dining rooms, where the fine cuisine is only upstaged by the view – herds of elephant and antelope drinking at the river.
