Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Destinations
Continents
Start & End Location
Price
USD 470USD 8,023
Showing 1 - 10 of 134 results
Page 9 of 134 Trips offered by Encounters Travel with 7 Reviews
Explore Tamil Nadu's rich heritage! Visit Chennai, coastal Pondicherry, ancient Mahabalipuram, marvel at temples in Tanjore & Madurai, and experience a journey on the iconic Indian railway.
Your adventure begins in vibrant Chennai, where you'll be warmly welcomed and briefed on the exciting itinerary ahead. An optional city tour introduces you to Chennai's highlights. Afterward, you'll embark on a scenic coastal journey southward, stopping at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the artistry of the Shore Temple and other ancient rock-carved structures before arriving in charming Pondicherry, where you'll have free time to explore.
Pondicherry's unique blend of French and Tamil heritage takes centre stage. Stroll through the French Quarter, experience the tranquility of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and admire the vibrant Manakula Vinayagar Temple. A stroll along Promenade Beach ends a fulfilling day. Next, you'll delve into the heart of Tamil Nadu's rural culture at the Mohanam Cultural Center. Witness traditional dance and music, create your own Kolam artwork, and enjoy a Tamil-style lunch, knowing your visit supports the community's preservation of heritage arts. Your journey then continues to the historical city of Tanjore.
Tanjore unveils its architectural gem - the awe-inspiring Brihadeeswarar Temple, a testament to the Chola dynasty's grandeur. Afterward, you'll head south to the ancient city of Madurai. Experience the vibrant spirit of this spiritual hub, explore the old town's bustling bazaars, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Meenakshi Amman Temple. A scenic train ride back to Chennai allows you to reflect on your Indian adventure before catching your flight home the following day.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This 14-day small group tour begins in Johannesburg, South Africa, and immediately heads east to the Greater Kruger National Park area for two nights. Guests will experience a full day 4x4 game drive within Kruger National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife including the "Big-5". The itinerary also includes a scenic drive along the Panorama Route, featuring highlights such as Bourke's Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, and God's Window.
The journey continues into Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) for two nights, a landlocked kingdom surrounded by South Africa. Here, guests can explore the local culture and natural beauty, with optional activities like game drives, hiking, or mountain biking available. Following Eswatini, the tour re-enters South Africa, venturing into Zululand and spending two nights in St Lucia. Here, highlights include a game drive in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, a critical rhinoceros stronghold, and an afternoon boat cruise on the scenic St Lucia estuary.
The tour then proceeds to the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO recognised World Heritage site, for two nights. This section includes visits to the Howick Falls and the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, along with a guided hike in the Drakensberg mountains. Next, the group heads to Lesotho, often referred to as the 'Kingdom in the Sky', for two nights. Here, guests will explore its unique mountain landscape on foot and experience a Waterfall and Bushman Paintings activity. The return to South Africa involves a stop in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet in the Great Karoo. The penultimate day features an optional sunrise excursion to the Valley of Desolation and an afternoon game drive in Addo Elephant National Park. The tour concludes in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) after breakfast on Day 14
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Camping, Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
8-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Eastern Cape, Johannesburg, Krug
Eastern Cape, Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, Lesotho, Graaf Reinet, Addo, Gqeberha, Eswatini, Saint Lucia, Hluhluwe, UKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park
Dive into the real Maldives on the "Maldives Uncovered" tour, an eight-day beach adventure starting and ending in Male. This guided tour reveals vibrant island life as you travel through Gulhi and Maafushi, staying in locally owned guesthouses for authentic comfort. The itinerary is packed with experiences: stroll the bustling streets of Male, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and join beach barbeques with new friends. Take part in cultural shows, savor traditional Maldivian snacks, and even enjoy meals with local families, all while surrounded by the turquoise Indian Ocean. Optional scuba-diving excursions are available, as well as the chance to extend your stay on a luxurious island resort for an extra touch of indulgence. The unique selling point of this trip is its genuine cultural immersion—offering not just breathtaking scenery, but real connections with Maldivian people and traditions. Perfect for explorers seeking a balance of relaxation, adventure, and local insight, this tour promises to uncover a side of the Maldives far beyond the typical resort experience.
BeachChill out
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This extraordinary eleven-day journey through Southern Africa offers a captivating blend of wildlife encounters, ancient history, and dramatic landscapes. Designed for an intimate experience, this small-group tour, with a maximum of 12 participants, ensures a personalised adventure from start to finish. Beginning at the majestic Victoria Falls, the itinerary quickly delves into the heart of Zimbabwe's premier wildlife reserves. Days are filled with thrilling game drives in Hwange National Park, home to vast elephant herds and diverse species, complemented by an insightful visit to the Painted Dog Conservation Centre, highlighting vital conservation efforts. The tour then shifts to the mystical Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique granite formations, ancient San rock art, and the chance to track rhinos on foot, offering a truly unique perspective on the wild.
The historical thread continues with a visit to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, an ancient capital showcasing remarkable dry-stone architecture and a rich past. As the journey progresses south, the landscape transforms, leading to the Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area. Here, travellers explore the Kaoxa Rock Art Shelter, witnessing millennia-old human expression, before embarking on a guided tracking experience in Mapesu Private Game Reserve, learning to read the subtle signs of the wild. The small group size enhances these experiences, allowing for more in-depth interaction with guides and a greater sense of immersion.
The final leg of the trip plunges into the renowned South African wilderness, with multiple safari experiences in and around Kruger National Park, including full-day drives and sunset excursions aimed at spotting the iconic Big Five. The intimate nature of a small group means more flexibility and better viewing opportunities on these drives. Interspersed with the wildlife adventures is a breathtaking drive along the Panorama Route, revealing stunning vistas, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls. The tour concludes in Johannesburg, ensuring guests leave with a profound collection of memories, from close encounters with Africa's magnificent wildlife to a deep appreciation for the region's rich history and diverse natural beauty, all shared within the camaraderie of a small group
Wildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Eco Lodge, Resort
Age Range
8-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Johannesburg, Kalahari, Hwange N
Johannesburg, Kalahari, Hwange National Park, Ghanzi, Maun, Okavango Delta, Moremi, Nata, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, Cape Town
This comprehensive 3 week tour is designed to reveal some of the secrets lying in South America. The tour begins in Lima; you then head south for an incredible Ballestas Islands boat trip where you will see exotic birds and sea mammals. You then travel inland to the desert and the palm trees and sand dunes of the Oasis of Huacachina where we make camp under the stars. You will then visit the mysterious Nazca lines whose true meaning is still up for debate. The tour then starts it's ascent into the Andes to the town of Arequipa and the Colca Canyon, the deepest in the world. The tour then takes us to Cuzco where we prepare for the unforgettable Inca Trail, after reaching Machu Picchu we head back to Cuzco for some relaxing time in this beautiful Andean city. We continue our journey to Lake Titicaca where we spend time learning of the traditions of the local Uros Indians, with free time to laze the day away on the shores of this deep blue lake. The tour makes it's final stop in La Paz, giving you free time to explore the Bolivian capital.
Mountains
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Camping, Guest House, Home-stay
Age Range
16-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lima, La Paz, Inca Trail, Machu
Lima, La Paz, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Puno, Copacabana, Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, Huacachina, Nazca Lines, Arequipa
Discover the lost land of the Incas and visit Machu Picchu on this 15 day tour of Peru. Starting in Lima we head south to the Ballestas Islands in the Paracas National Reserve. We get to see a huge array of birds and marine mammals on a boat ride through the islands. The next day we head through the Ica Desert on our way to Peru's wine regoin where we visit a winery before travelling to the Oasis of Huacachina where we have a chance to get our hearts pumping on an exhilarating dune buggy ride before settling down for a relaxing evening of camping under the stars. The next morning we are off to see the mysterious Nazca lines before heading to Arequipa for the night. We spend the next 4 days exploring Colca Canyon, we can select from additional activities like white water rafting, cycling, horse riding and trekking. We then travel to Cuzco where we visit some nearby sites before heading back to our hotel to prepare for our next adventure. We head out early the next morning from Cuzco to the Urubamba Valley from where we begin our 4 day trek along the Inca Trail to the unforgettable Machu Picchu. At the end of our trek we head back to Cuzco by train. The next day is free to explore Cuzco at your leisure, the next day you will be transferred to the airport for your departing flight.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Camping, Guest House
Age Range
16-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Machu Picchu, Lima, Inca Trail
Machu Picchu, Lima, Inca Trail, Cusco, Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, Huacachina, Arequipa
Nepal’s diverse landscapes and vibrant traditions come alive for all ages on the 'Nepal Family Adventure'—a 14-day guided trekking and cultural journey from Kathmandu. Crafted specifically for families, this tour blends temple visits, gentle mountain hikes, wildlife safaris, and fun local experiences, ensuring everyone from kids to adults has a memorable time.
Begin in Kathmandu with a rickshaw ride and temple explorations, then fly to Pokhara for serene lakeside moments and a momo-cooking workshop. Embark on a four-day Annapurna lodge trek, with cozy stays and spectacular Himalayan views, including an optional climb up Panchase Hill. Return to Pokhara for a splashy white-water rafting trip on the Seti River—camping under the stars—or opt for a night in town if rafting’s not your thing.
Head to Chitwan National Park for thrilling jungle safaris and a visit to a Tharu village, where you’ll learn about local culture and search for rhinos and tigers. Wrap up with pottery making in Bhaktapur and visits to Nepal’s most sacred Hindu and Buddhist sites.
The unique selling point is the tour’s balance of adventure and comfort, with experienced guides and flexible options for less-active travelers. This family trip delivers culture, nature, and fun in equal measure—a perfect introduction to Nepal for adventurous families.
Trekking and HikingRafting
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Camping, Home-stay, Lodge
Age Range
5-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara, Bhumdi, Panchase Bhanjyang, Bandipur
Vast savannahs, shimmering lakes, and the vibrant heart of Africa—"Gorillas & Plains" is an epic 15-day wildlife tour spanning Kenya and Uganda, designed for travelers seeking the ultimate safari and primate trekking adventure. Starting and ending in Nairobi, this guided journey immerses you in renowned game parks and up-close encounters with some of the continent’s most iconic species.
Kick off with classic game drives in the legendary Masai Mara, where lions, elephants, and wildebeest roam freely. Continue to Lake Nakuru for more wildlife viewing before crossing into Uganda, with a stop in Jinja—the source of the Nile—where optional activities like white-water rafting await the adventurous.
Your journey intensifies in Murchison Falls National Park, home to the thunderous falls and a rich array of wildlife. Then, venture into Budongo Forest Reserve for a guided trek in search of chimpanzees, getting a firsthand look at their fascinating behavior. The true highlight follows: a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat—a transformative wildlife experience.
On the return to Nairobi, optional rhino trekking and scenic drives through the Great Rift Valley add further depth. Accommodation options range from classic camping (with provided tents and camp beds) to comfortable lodge upgrades, ensuring flexibility to suit your preferred comfort level.
What sets this tour apart is its unique blend of exhilarating safari, immersive primate trekking, and authentic local encounters. For those who crave meaningful wildlife experiences beyond the ordinary, "Gorillas & Plains" delivers Africa’s raw beauty and unforgettable moments.
Wildlife safaris and game drives
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Camping, Tent, Resort, Guest House
Age Range
8-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Bunyon
Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Bunyonyi , Lake Mburo National Park, Jinja, Masai Mara National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest, Kikorongo
This comprehensive 11-day journey offers a captivating experience from the bustling capital of Delhi to the serene and breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh. The tour is meticulously planned to provide a rich cultural experience while ensuring a comfortable pace, particularly for acclimatisation to the high altitude of the Himalayas.
The experience begins in Delhi, where you are introduced to a dynamic blend of historical grandeur and modern life. The adventure features key landmarks like India Gate and Humayun's Tomb, and immerses you in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Delhi's markets with a guided rickshaw and street food tour. This initial phase sets the stage for the diverse experiences to come, contrasting the urban vibrancy of Delhi with the tranquil, mountainous region that follows.
A significant part of the journey focuses on Ladakh, a region of immense natural beauty and spiritual significance. From the moment you land in Leh, the focus shifts to acclimatisation, a crucial element for a comfortable experience at high altitude. The route thoughtfully balances travel with rest, including a day dedicated to exploring key cultural sites like Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa while allowing your body to adjust. As the journey progresses, you venture out to the stunning Sham Valley, crossing some of the world's highest motorable passes and visiting iconic monasteries such as Likir and Ridzong. This portion of the adventure is filled with unique geological wonders like the Magnetic Hill and the "Moon Landscapes," showcasing the otherworldly terrain of the region.
The journey culminates with visits to the remote Nubra Valley and the stunning Pangong Tso Lake. The drive to Nubra takes you over the dramatic Khardung La, offering spectacular views. In the valley, you'll experience a unique desert environment, complete with Bactrian camels and a visit to the historic village of Turtuk, which holds a poignant place in Indo-Pakistani history. The adventure then leads to the brilliant blue waters of Pangong Tso, a highlight for many. The experience concludes with a return to Leh and then to Delhi, leaving you with lasting memories of India's diverse landscapes, from the busy city streets to the peaceful Himalayan peaks
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Step into the mystical kingdom of Bhutan with "Bhutan Encounters," an 8-day walking tour that marries ancient tradition and modern charm. This immersive journey, starting and ending in Paro, takes you through fortified dzongs, mountain monasteries, and vibrant villages—offering a rare window into the soul of the last great Himalayan kingdom.
Explore Paro’s iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside, and discover centuries-old artifacts at Ta Dzong Museum. In Thimphu, Bhutan’s bustling capital, wander local markets, learn about incense-making, and encounter the national animal, the Takin. Travel over dramatic high passes to sacred temples and the scenic Phobjikha Valley, where a homestay with a local family offers genuine cultural immersion—sharing meals, stories, and daily life.
Depending on your travel dates, you may witness a vibrant tsechu festival, with masked dances and lively processions illuminating Bhutan’s spiritual heart. Flexible itineraries are available to maximize festival experiences.
For those seeking more, extension options connect this trip with Nepal or India for a broader Himalayan adventure. The unique selling point? Authentic cultural connection through homestays and festival participation—making this walking tour a soulful journey for the curious and adventurous traveler.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers