Encounters Travel is offering 130+ trips and tours with a total of 5+ customer reviews. Tour durations range from 2 to 25 days and offering discounts up to 25%.
On this two-week African family adventure through Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia, you'll get to explore some of the most varied and exciting landscapes in Africa. Starting in Victoria Falls on the border of Zimbabwe, we travel into Botswana before exploring Namibia and finishing in the capital, Windhoek.
Your starting point is the stunning Victoria Falls and the numerous activities available here. Leaving Zimbabwe we cross the border into Botswana and take you to Chobe National Park, famous for its thriving elephant population.
Heading into Namibia, our first stop is along the banks of the Okavango River, teaming with plant, bird and animal life and an area that is often known as the 'pan handle' of the Okavango Delta. There are several optional safaris from our camp both in traditional mokoro dugout canoes, and with open 4x4 safari vehicles. Moving on, Etosha National Park is one of the best places in the world to see wildlife and we have several game drives in our truck, especially looking out for the famous desert elephants there and enjoying time in the evenings at floodlit waterholes. Back on the road, we journey south to Ozohere Himba Village and Cape Cross Seal Colony. After passing shipwrecks sitting on the desert sands of the Skeleton Coast, we’ll visit Swakopmund, known as the adventure capital of Namibia where thrilling activities, such as skydiving, sandboarding and scenic flights above the stark landscape of the mountainous dunes are available. Coming towards the end of our trip, our next highlight is Namib-Naukluft National Park and Sossusvlei where we'll climb up the famous Dune 45 in the Namib Desert and see the ancient scorched black trees in the Deadvlei clay-pan. Finally we travel to Windhoek, Namibia’s capital and journey’s end.
This overland family adventure safari holiday allows you to experience the diversity and uniqueness of the different regional cultures, discover the abundance of wildlife, and get your adrenaline flowing with exciting optional activities. Accommodation is a mix of hotels/lodges, permanent camps, and in simple tents next to our truck. Travel is on one of our specialist overland expedition vehicles with an experienced tour leader and driver on board.
This family tour has a minimum age requirement of 5 years, with discounted prices available for children aged from 5 to 15. Our trucks have 24 seats on the back, and the group will be a minimum of 8 people and maximum of 18 (plus crew).
Note: If you would like to enjoy a longer family adventure in Africa with us, then our Tanzania Family Overland trip from Nairobi to Zanzibar runs immediately before this trip starts and the two are designed to be combined together if you wish.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Camping, Hotel, Tent, Hut, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
1-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Nairobi, Victoria Falls, Cape Cr
Nairobi, Victoria Falls, Cape Cross Seal Reserve, Swakopmund, Namib Naukluft National Park, Windhoek, Chobe National Park, Okavango River, Rundu, Etosha National Park, Otjikandero Himba Orphanage Village
Join us on a Greek adventure, exploring Zante and its neighbouring islands. We'll take you to beautiful bays, visit sea caves and local villages all whilst enjoying Greek hospitality onboard our traditional gulet.
We'll start our voyage from the Old Town of Zante, before sailing along the coast to the fishing village of Agios Nikolaos, which is located around a small harbour, dotted with small shops and tavernas. Leaving the island of Zakynthos behind, our next stops are Ithaca and its port townn of Vathi and the often overlooked island of Meganisi, where we'll take full advantage of the secluded beaches. Next, is the picturesque island of Kefalonia, known for having some of the very best beaches in Europe. On Kefalonia we'll make a number of stops in Fiskardo, Agia Efimia and Poros. Our final stop is the famous Shipwreck beach on the north coast of Zante, before we return to Zante Old Town where our voyage comes to an end
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Ecuador, starting with a day of acclimatization and exploration in the charming city of Quito. From there, fly to the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands, where you'll witness the unique biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.
Discover the volcanic wonders of Isabela Island, snorkeling through lava tunnels teeming with marine life and kayaking alongside penguins and sea lions. Hike to the second-largest lava dome in the world, Sierra Negra Volcano, and savor a farm-to-table lunch amidst breathtaking scenery.
Continue your adventure on Santa Cruz Island, home to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the "Primicias" reserve, where you can observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in the local culture of Puerto Ayora before returning to Quito, where your journey began.
Departing with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for Ecuador's natural wonders, you'll be left yearning to return and explore more of this captivating country.
In the Galapagos we offer a selection of tours of varying lengths and activity levels:
7 Day - Galapagos Essentials - Our lead-in product, ideal for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the Galapagos without being too active. This tour visits the Islands of Santa Cruz and San Cristobel.
7 Day - Best of the Galapagos - For those looking for an activity based trip to the Galapagos, our Best of the Galapagos tour has a more active itinerary, including a hike on the Sierra Negra Volcano. This tour visits the Islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz.
10 Day - Galapagos Uncovered - For passengers with more time available, our Galapagos Uncovered tour is a great option, this tour includes a good mix of activities and includes visits to three islands; San Cristobel, Isabela and Santa Cruz.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This 8-day tour, focuses on ANZAC Day commemorations while also exploring diverse regions of Turkey, including Troy and the newly opened museum, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Kusadasi.
This eight-day tour begins in Istanbul, immersing you in the city's rich history and culture through guided visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. You'll then embark on a poignant journey to Gallipoli, where you'll pay homage to fallen soldiers at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service and explore the historic battlefields.
The adventure continues with a visit to the legendary city of Troy and its award-winning museum, followed by explorations of ancient Ephesus, the charming village of Sirince, and the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale. Along the way, you'll witness traditional carpet weaving, learn about the therapeutic hot springs of Hierapolis, and savor the flavors of Turkish cuisine. The tour concludes back in Istanbul, leaving you with cherished memories of a diverse and enriching experience.
This 5-day tour departs from and returns to Istanbul. It includes a visit to the Gallipoli Peninsula to attend the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, followed by either the Australian or New Zealand memorial service, before heading back to Istanbul where you'll explore the city on an included city tour.
This five-day tour begins with your arrival in Istanbul and a warm welcome at the airport. After settling into your hotel, you'll meet your fellow travelers and guide, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. The heart of the tour lies in the solemn remembrance of ANZAC Day at Gallipoli, where you'll visit poignant sites like Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, ANZAC Cove, and The Nek, tracing the footsteps of history amidst the original trenches and tunnels.
The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, a deeply moving tribute to the fallen soldiers. You'll then have the opportunity to attend either the Australian or New Zealand Memorial service before returning to Istanbul. The final full day of hte tour offers a glimpse into Istanbul's rich past and vibrant present with a guided tour of iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar. As the tour concludes, you'll bid farewell to newfound friends and the enchanting city of Istanbul.
This 11-day tour of Turkey begins and concludes in Istanbul, with the ANZAC Day ceremonies as its focal point. The itinerary also encompasses captivating destinations such as Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Kusadasi, including five UNESCO World Heritage sites.
This tour offers a unique blend of historical exploration and cultural immersion, centered around the ANZAC Day commemorations at Gallipoli. The journey begins in Istanbul, where participants delve into the city's rich past with visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
The tour then ventures to Gallipoli, where the solemn ANZAC Day Dawn Service and memorial services pay tribute to the fallen soldiers. The itinerary also encompasses destinations such as Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia, showcasing Turkey's diverse landscapes and ancient ruins. Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to engage with local traditions, such as witnessing carpet weaving demonstrations and attending an optional Turkish folklore evenings.
This 2-day tour departs from and returns to Istanbul. It includes a visit to the Gallipoli Peninsula to attend the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, followed by either the Australian or New Zealand memorial service, before heading back to Istanbul.
Embark on a journey to the historic battlefields of Gallipoli. Day one begins with a morning departure from Istanbul, allowing time to gather necessary supplies en route. Upon reaching the Gallipoli Peninsula, secure a prime location at Anzac Cove in preparation for the solemn overnight vigil.
Awaken before dawn on the second day to experience the profoundly moving ANZAC Day Dawn Service. Immerse yourself in the poignant atmosphere as you pay respects to fallen soldiers. Afterward, choose to attend either the Australian or New Zealand Memorial service, honoring their contributions and sacrifices. A late afternoon drive back to Istanbul concludes the tour, bidding farewell to newfound companions and the echoes of history.
It's ancient Medinas and Kasbahs and famous cities like Marrakech, Fez and Casablanca as well as the Roman city of Volubilis provides a never ending trail of excitement and places to explore.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Explore a little travelled part of Pakistan with a tour that journeys from Karachi to Lahore.
Here you will be able to take in the sights, sounds and importantly tastes of Karachi and its bazaars, find yourself immersed in the 5000-year-old history of the Indus Valley, taking in the sights of the striking Derewar Fort in the Cholistan Desert, before having the opportunity to watch the flag lowering ceremony carried out on the Indian border.
Our journey begins in Karachi where we'll have time to take in the sights, sounds and most importantly, the tastes of the city and its bazaars. As we head towards Hyderabad, we'll make time to visit Thatta and Makli Hills, which is perhaps the worlds largest necropolis. Once we reach Hyderabad, we'll have the opportunity to learn about some of the industries which the city is famous for, we'll see coloured pottery being made, woodwork, weaving and Ajrak production, a block printed cloth which this region is famous for.
Moving on, we visit the sufi shrine of saint Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and witness a sufi ceremony in Sehwan and join the Mohanas tribe for a boating experience on Lake Manchar.
After stopping in Larkana, our next visit is to Mohenjo-Daro, located on the banks of the Indus River. The 5000 year old city was the centre of the Indus Civilisation and one of the largest in the world at its peak and we'll have time to explore the incredible ruins. As our journey takes us in the direction of Bahawalpur, we'll stop in Sukkur and the Cholistan Desert to visit Derawar Fort.
As we pass through the former independant state of Bahawalpur, we'll visit the Nur Mahal and Bahawalpur mosques, along with the city museum and bazaar, before heading to Multan where we'll stay for 2 nights. Multan is known as the city of saints and our tour here will include the shrines of the great mystics, with their shimmering blue glazed tiles. We'll also visit the old walled city and the bustling bazaar, where we may spot local artisans at work.
For our final stop we head to Pakistans 2nd largest city, Lahore, stopping along the way in Harappa, which dates back to 3000 BC. Our time in Lahore will include a city tour, taking in some of the highlights of the city, such as the worlds largest mosque (the Badshahi Mosque), the Wagah Border with India and of course, 'food street' in the old town where you can try many different flavours and dishes.
Travelling in small air-conditioned vehicles with local guides, this journey gives you a unique experience of Pakistan which will last a lifetime.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
The sights, sounds and smells make Morocco a fantastic family destination. Explore the ancient labyrinthine medina of Marrakech, astonishing landscape of the Atlas Mountains and extraordinary Sahara Desert. This tour has been planned to be suitable for the younger members of your family. It includes shorter drive times, and opportunities to both explore or relax by the pool!
After arriving into Marrakech you'll have some free time to settle in, before beginning our Moroccan family adventure. Leaving behind Marrakech we begin our journey, heading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ain Benhaddou. Our route to Ait Behaddou will take us through the Valley of the Roses and over the scenic Atlas Mountains. Once we reach Ait Benhaddou we'll have a guided tour of one of the oldest fortified towns in the south of Morocco, which has also been featured in numerous movies and TV series including Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia and even Game of Thrones.
Our route towards the Sahara continues through the N'Kob Berber Oasis where we'll have a chance to learn about the Ait Atta Nomads and their way of life. During the day we'll have a walking tour of the palmerie and have the option of partaking in a cooking class. Our journey from N'Kob continues, passing through the Anti-Atlas and Draa Valley, making a stop to try some local dates. Our destination today will be the Erg Chebbi Sand Dunes where we'll take a camel ride through the desert and spend the night at a traditional berber camp.
As we begin our journey back towards Marrakech, we'll make a stop to visit the Todra Gorge, the Grand Canyon of Morocco, and the movie studios of Ouarzazate. Once we reach Marrakech you'll have time to explore the Medina and have the option of joining our Marrakech city tour.
This tour has been arranged specifically for those travelling with children aged from 5 to 16 years (minimum age 5) - child discounts are available.
For those passengers who would like some time by the coast, you may also consider our Souks, Sand Dunes & Surf Tour which includes additional time in the coastal town of Essaouira.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Explore a little travelled part of Pakistan with a tour that journeys from Karachi to Islamabad.
Here you will be able to take in the sights, sounds and importantly tastes of Karachi and its bazaars, find yourself immersed in the 5000-year-old history of the Indus Valley, taking in the sights of the striking Derewar Fort in the Cholistan Desert, before having the opportunity to watch the flag lowering ceremony carried out on the Indian border.
Our journey begins in Karachi where we'll have time to take in the sights, sounds and most importantly, the tastes of the city and its bazaars. As we head towards Hyderabad, we'll make time to visit Thatta and Makli Hills, which is perhaps the worlds largest necropolis. Once we reach Hyderabad, we'll have the opportunity to learn about some of the industries which the city is famous for, we'll see coloured pottery being made, woodwork, weaving and Ajrak production, a block printed cloth which this region is famous for.
Moving on, we visit the sufi shrine of saint Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and witness a sufi ceremony in Sehwan and join the Mohanas tribe for a boating experience on Lake Manchar.
After stopping in Larkana, our next visit is to Mohenjo-Daro, located on the banks of the Indus River. The 5000 year old city was the centre of the Indus Civilisation and one of the largest in the world at its peak and we'll have time to explore the incredible ruins. As our journey takes us in the direction of Bahawalpur, we'll stop in Sukkur and the Cholistan Desert to visit Derawar Fort.
As we pass through the former independant state of Bahawalpur, we'll visit the Nur Mahal and Bahawalpur mosques, along with the city museum and bazaar, before heading to Multan where we'll stay for 2 nights. Multan is known as the city of saints and our tour here will include the shrines of the great mystics, with their shimmering blue glazed tiles. We'll also visit the old walled city and the bustling bazaar, where we may spot local artisans at work.
Next we'll head to Pakistans 2nd largest city, Lahore, stopping along the way in Harappa, which dates back to 3000 BC. Our time in Lahore will include a city tour, taking in some of the highlights of the city, such as the worlds largest mosque (the Badshahi Mosque), the Wagah Border with India and of course, 'food street' in the old town where you can try many different flavours and dishes.
We visit Rohtas Fort en-route to Islamabad. Whilst in Islamabad we'll take time to explore the city along with the old city of Rawalpindi and nearby Taxila.
Travelling in small air-conditioned vehicles with local guides, this journey gives you a unique experience of Pakistan which will last a lifetime.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This comprehensive 20-day Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek is a remarkable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge. The journey commences with a scenic flight to Lukla, followed by a trek through charming Sherpa villages, including Phakding and the vibrant Namche Bazaar, allowing you to acclimatize to the high altitude and experience the local way of life.
As you venture deeper into the Everest region, the trek leads you through lush rhododendron forests, across suspension bridges, and past cascading waterfalls. Highlights include reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp, standing in awe of the world's highest peak, and ascending Kala Pattar for unparalleled panoramic views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and the sprawling Khumbu Glacier. The trek also challenges you with the crossing of the Cho La Pass, a high-altitude pass that rewards your efforts with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Himalayan giants.
The journey then takes a scenic turn towards the tranquil Gokyo Lakes, where you can marvel at the turquoise waters and the majestic Cho Oyu peak. You'll have the opportunity to hike to Gokyo Ri for even more spectacular views and explore the serene beauty of this high-altitude region. As you make your way back, you'll pass through picturesque villages like Machermo and Dole, enjoying the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people and immersing yourself in their rich culture.
The trek concludes with a final descent to Lukla, where you'll catch a flight back to Kathmandu
As flights between Lukla and Kathmandu can at times be delayed or cancelled due to weather conditions, we recommend adding at least 1 extra night post-tour in Kathmandu.
All those joining our Everest & Gokyo Lakes Trek will receive free trekking pack hire (normally costs $45), containing a down jacket and sleeping bag; suitable for the season in which you are travelling.
If you prefer a shorter trek, you may wish to consider our 15-day Everest Base Camp Trek.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
As one of our longer Gulet sailing tours, this package starts and ends in the Harbour side town of Fethiye, from where you'll be able to fly into/out of the nearby airport in Dalaman. You'll sail along one of Turkeys most beautiful stretches of coastline, making stops in secluded bays and visiting quiet islands. Onboard the gulet you'll have a private en-suite cabin and the onboard crew will cooked and serve all meals during your voyage.
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Age Range
1-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Fethiye, Tersane Island, Bedri R
Fethiye, Tersane Island, Bedri Rahmi Bay, Gocek Island, Boynuz Bükü, Red Island
This is a world-class trek that takes you through beautiful wooded valleys, along cold, clear mountain rivers, and into the soaring, snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The trek culminates in a climb to the high mountain glacial region of Everest Base Camp. The trek is justifiably famous for being both challenging and rewarding, and yet remains open to most who have the stamina and determination to make it.
You start this tour in Kathmandu where you meet your trekking guide to travel by road to Salleri where your trek to Everest Base Camp begins. Starting in Salleri means you avoid the flight into Lukla and instead add 3 beautiful days of trekking through the foothills of the Himalays in areas with few other tourists. This is a lodge-based trek, which gives you the chance to spend time meeting and talking with other trekkers and guides in the evenings, as well as enjoying a little more comfort at the end of each day and ensures you contribute to the local economy.
From Salleri the trek spends the first few days climbing gradually through the Himalayan foothills, crossing several deep, wooded river valleys before following the Dudh Khosi up to Namche Bazaar, an historical Sherpa trading centre of the Khumbu Region. From here you enter into the Sagarmatha National Park area, and tremendous mountain scenery surrounds your trail as you make your way towards the high mountain glacial region of the Everest Base Camp. Several acclimatisation days are built in en-route to ensure you ascend safely.
Beyond Lobuche, snow-capped mountains close around as you follow the Khumbu Glacier up to Gorak Shep (5,288m), and ascend Kala Pattar (5,545m). The view of Nuptse, Ama Dablam and Everest, from the summit of Kala Pattar, is truly breathtaking. The following morning, you trek up to the Everest Base Camp area, from where so many expeditions have begun. From Base Camp you retrace your steps back to Lukla, along the way appreciating spectacular views of peaks from angles you may have missed on the way up.
From Lukla you catch the morning flight back to Kathmandu where you have a little free time to do some last minute shopping or a little more sightseeing around the city and surrounding valley.
All those joining our Classic Everest Trek will receive free trekking pack hire (normally costs $45), containing a down jacket and sleeping bag; suitable for the season in which you are travelling.
If you prefer a slightly shorter trek, you may consider our 15 day Everest Base Camp Trek, which starts with a flight to Lukla.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers