Very hard, very demanding, very cold, VERY REWARDING. The first view of a snow leopard, like my first encounter with a tiger, was highly emotional and, unashamedly, induced tears !
This 8-day adventure through Bhutan is a captivating journey through a land where ancient traditions meet modern aspirations. From the moment you arrive at Paro International Airport, often hailed as the world's most beautiful, you'll be immersed in a realm of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.
Explore historic fortresses like Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong, now a museum housing exquisite artifacts. Discover the art of incense making, hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery perched on a cliff, and witness the unique Takin, Bhutan's national animal. Journey over high mountain passes, visit sacred temples, and wander through bustling markets in the capital city of Thimphu.
But this tour offers more than just sightseeing. You'll experience authentic Bhutanese life with a homestay in the Phobjikha Valley, sharing meals and stories with a local family. You'll witness the resilience of Bhutanese architecture at the ruined Wangdue Phodrang Dzong and perhaps even catch the excitement of an archery tournament.
This is a journey that will awaken your senses, challenge your body, and nourish your soul. It's an opportunity to connect with a culture that values happiness and harmony, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
We've carefully selected some of our departure dates to coincide with Bhutan's vibrant tsechus – religious festivals that bring the dzongs (fortresses) to life with colorful masked dances, lively processions, and unique cultural performances. These festivals offer a rare glimpse into Bhutan's spiritual heart and are a truly unforgettable experience.
To ensure you fully immerse yourself in these captivating celebrations, we may adjust the itinerary slightly on these special departure dates. This allows us to maximize your time at the festivals and also takes into account the limited accommodation availability during these popular events.
Flights to Bhutan are available with Druk Air, the national airline, with convenient connections from Singapore, Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kathmandu.
Want to extend your adventure beyond Bhutan? We offer a range of options to combine this tour with time in Nepal and/or India:
- Temples, Dzongs and Taj - This tour combines our Bhutan Encounters tour with an exploration of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal and time visiting Delhi and Agra (including the Taj Mahal) in India.
- Himalayan Kingdoms - This tour add times in Nepal before and after our Bhutan Encounters Tour
Also called Celebes, Sulawesi is one of the largest and most populated islands in Indonesia. Not very touristy because of its poor road network and hotel infrastructures, this region is nonetheless very interesting on many levels.
Like other Indonesian islands, trekkers and culture enthusiasts are attracted by the mountains of the Toraja country as well as its people, whose funeral rites, unique in the world, are full of grand ceremonies and unique rituals.
Discover Toraja country, a blurred boundary between the living and the dead. This superb trek between mountains and rice fields allows you to discover a little-known but incredibly rich culture. Accompanied by a local guide, this animist culture will no longer have any secrets for you.
Please scroll down to the itinerary section for more details.
Do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of the most endangered animal species. Book this trip with us and travel to the UNESCO-listed Chitwan National Park, located some 146km away from Kathmandu. Participate on a guided, 3-day tour of the national park and see an amazing diversity of flora and fauna.
Enjoy our pickup service from Kathmandu or Pokhara and travel to Chitwan in an air-conditioned tourist bus. Covering an area of 932 square kilometres, the national park is home to a variety of endangered species, including 500 one-horned rhinos, around 120 Bengal tigers and a large number of lumbering elephants, crocodiles, pythons, deer and brilliantly colored birds.
Visit a traditional Tharu village on the first day of the trip. The Tharu people have been living in the jungles of the southern plains of Nepal and northern parts of India since time immemorial. Go out on an elephant safari, ride a canoe and visit an elephant breeding centre on the second day of the trip.
The third day of the trip involves birdwatching in the morning before you prepare for the departure. We will drive you to Pokhara or Kathmandu in a tourist bus after the trip is over.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan, where timeless traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. Your adventure begins in Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis where ancient culture and modern life coexist. Explore the peaceful grounds of the Meiji Jingu Shrine, stroll through the lively Tsukiji Fish Market, and admire the historic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple. Next, escape the city to witness the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji. Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi, soar above the scenery on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, and visit the serene Arakurayama Sengen Park and traditional Oshino Hakkai Village. Unwind for the night in Hakone, known for its relaxing hot springs and scenic views. Continue to the charming town of Takayama, where you'll explore the vibrant Morning Market and the historic Kusakabe Folk Museum, showcasing traditional architecture and craftsmanship. From there, travel to the storybook village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its iconic thatched-roof houses at the Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum before arriving in Kanazawa. In Kyoto, immerse yourself in Japan’s cultural heart. Wander through the enchanting bamboo groves of Arashiyama, marvel at the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and climb the iconic paths lined with vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine. Before your journey ends, stop in Osaka to visit the magnificent Osaka Castle, a symbol of Japan’s feudal history. As your tour concludes, depart from Osaka with a heart full of unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Japan’s cultural and natural wonders.
Heaven is a place on earth. And it’s right here in the Philippines. Get ready for the ultimate 18-day love affair with the best beaches, cities and seaside gems in all of Asia. You’ll sample local eats, snorkel & swim in the sparkling sea, chase waterfalls and soak in the most beautiful island sunsets you’ll ever see, all with included flights & Special Stays.
With the arrival of cool autumn, Japan transforms into a kaleidoscope of hues. For this 14-day journey, you will witness the breathtaking spectacle of golden ginkgo leaves lining the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue in Tokyo. You will also be captivated by the Chureito Pagoda, set against a stunning backdrop of vibrant red foliage in Kawaguchiko. The charm of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-Dera and the serene beauty of Jojakko-Ji Temple in Arashiyama are further enhanced by the vivid red leaves that frame them. You will also have the opportunity to traverse the historic Kumano Kodo, a pilgrimage route where the autumn scenery unfolds along mountain trails, punctuated by visits to sacred shrines and temples. This journey promises not only visual delights but also a deeper connection with the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan.
Explore paradise with a visit to the remote, spectacular Raja Ampat archipelago in Indonesia. Visit the iconic Wayag, take a speedboat tour, snorkel and search for manta rays, and learn more about the local people and culture on this 4-day tour.
Most people know Raja Ampat from the famous photograph of the beautiful atoll of Wayag, an uninhabited island northwest of Waigeo Island. Getting to this Raja Ampat icon is not easy but definitely well worth the effort! Visiting Wayag is incomplete without climbing the steep and rocky hill to get to the viewpoint, which takes about 30 – 40 minutes (depending on fitness level), where you can enjoy the 360-degree view of the stunning panorama of unique karts formation beautifully scattered across the clear blue water.
Book now for a once-in-a-lifetime visit. Please read the detailed itinerary for more on the transportation, activities, meals and more.
Start your day with an 8:30 AM pickup from your hotel lobby. From there, head to Aik Berik Village, home to two beautiful waterfalls. The first is just a 15-minute easy hike from the gate, where a 30-meter cascade plunges through the lush forest. Afterward, enjoy a one-hour walk deeper into the forest to reach the second waterfall. Here, you can rejuvenate in the natural pool formed by cascading waters and admire the three tiers—30 meters, 10 meters, and 5 meters—resembling delicate threads of a valance. This unique appearance gives the falls their name, Benang Kelambu (“valance thread”).
After exploring the waterfalls, visit Rambitan traditional village to experience local traditions and architecture. Continue to Kuta Mandalika Square for lunch, then relax by the serene blue waters of Mawun Beach (or Mandalika/Seger Beach).
Conclude your day with a breathtaking sunset from Merese Hill at Tanjung Aan before returning to your hotel.
Discover the best of Lombok on this fully guided 4-day private tour, designed to immerse you in the island’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. Explore pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, majestic mountains, lush green landscapes, and traditional villages, experiencing the rich heritage and warm hospitality of the locals. With knowledgeable guides and personalized service, you can explore at your own pace while enjoying unforgettable activities, breathtaking scenery, and cultural encounters. This tour promises a journey filled with awe-inspiring moments and memories that will last a lifetime.
