38 Days | Wonders of the World Tour | Flights & Cruise included

Johannesburg, South Africa

Arrive in Johannesburg and transfer to your hotel for your one night stay pre safari tour.

Johannesburg, South Africa's biggest city and capital of Gauteng province, began as a 19th-century gold-mining settlement. Its sprawling Soweto township was once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Mandela’s former residence is now the Mandela House museum. Other Soweto museums that recount the struggle to end segregation include the somber Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, a former prison complex.

Meals: None

Accommodation: TBA at time of Confirmation

Johannesburg  Kruger National Park

Departing from Johannesburg at 630AM, we set off on the scenic road to the north east of the country where we encounter beautiful natural scenery and many wild animals in natural parks and game reserves.

Lunch (at own expense) is enjoyed in the historic town of Haenertsburg, located on the edge of the escarpment with beautiful surrounding views. The road is filled with picturesque beauty, from mountain passes to the Acacia trees scattered across the African bushveld.

The next two nights we get cosy at our well-appointed Bush Lodge, situated in a private reserve within the greater Kruger National Park, where animals roam freely and unrestricted. This privately owned reserve allows us the freedom to explore the wilderness in search of a variety of animals in open game drive vehicles, day and night.

The tented lodge casually blends into the bush and offers crisp comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, a refreshing splash pool, and stunning views over the surrounding wilderness, including a water hole frequented by a variety of animals. Retire to bed with a symphony of sounds from the animal kingdom.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Bush Lodge

Kruger National Park

After a peaceful nights rest we start with an early riser light breakfast of fresh coffee and rusks (a traditional South African biscuit), before embarking on our morning experience within this Big 5 area.

Guided by a qualified guide/Ranger we explore the wilderness, with heightened senses, always on the lookout for an animal encounter while discovering the smaller treasures often hidden from the eye.

Before the heat of the day sets in, we return to the lodge for a scrumptious brunch, after which it’s time to relax around the lodge and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding wilderness. A nearby waterhole in front of the camp attracts a variety of wildlife that come to quench their thirst, displaying the pecking order ever so present. Unwind with a refreshing drink and game viewing from the swimming pool or from your deck.

With the heat subsiding in the late afternoon an open game drive is in order, which develops into an extensive night drive in search of nocturnal animals.

As dusk approaches we pull over and enjoy a sun-downer drink or two, while watching the magnificent sunset over the African bushveld.

Meals: Brunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Bush Lodge

Kruger National Park - Panorama Route - Hazyview

Rising with the African sun, a hearty breakfast is enjoyed, before setting off to explore the highlights of the Panorama Route, famous for many natural wonders and viewing points.

First stop will be to view the impressive Blyde River Canyon – the world’s largest “green canyon”, then on to Bourke’s Luck Potholes where abundant gold was found and finally the breath-taking God’s Window (Weather Permitting).

An own expense lunch is enjoyed giving guests the opportunity to meet the locals.

Mid-afternoon we make our way to the tranquil Greenfire Lodge Hazyview, a log cabin built spectacularly on stilts in the indigenous forest on the banks of the impressive Sabie River or “Fearful” river as dubbed by the locals.

Time permitting, guests are able to do a nature walk on the property and the adjoining coffee farm and enjoy the mysterious forest. We spend two nights here.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Greenfire Lodge Hazyview

Kruger National Park

Waking with the birds, we depart the lodge at sunrise and travel a short distance to enter a different area of the Kruger National Park for a full day of game viewing.

Driving slowly through this iconic National park the size of Israel or Wales we search for the many animals that inhabit this area.

From the high vantage point and comfort of our well-equipped vehicle, our expert guide will take time to explain the behaviour of the many animals we see in this fascinating environment.

Most of the day will be spent game viewing, while stopping at various designated sites to stretch our legs and to enjoy an own expense lunch at one of the rest camps in the park.

Late this afternoon we exit the park and return to the comfort of our Greenfire Lodge Hazyview.

Meals: Packed Breakfast, snacks and Dinner

Accommodation: Greenfire Lodge Hazyview

Hazyview - Johannesburg

After a relaxed breakfast, we depart Hazyview and make our way back to Johannesburg using the route originally pioneered by the early gold diggers. Tonight you will overnight in Johannesburg.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA at time of Confirmation

Johannesburg Cairo, Egypt

Today will be a free to explore Johannesburg before you check in for your overnight flight to Cairo.

Meals: inflight menu

Cairo

Upon your arrival at Cairo airport you will be met by our local representative, who will assist you through immigration and passport control and collecting your baggage. You will then be transferred to your hotel, where your Egyptologist tour guide, who will accompany you for the duration of the tour, will brief you about the tour package and the incredible experiences you will have over the following eight days. Overnight at your hotel in Cairo.

Meals: none

Accommodation: TBA at time of Confirmation

Cairo - Giza Pyramids - Sphinx - Sakkara - Cairo

This morning you will experience the icons of ancient Egypt! Your Egyptologist guide will accompany you to the Giza pyramid complex, where you can see the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, the Pyramid of Menkaure, and the Great Sphinx. We'll then visit Sakkara to see the unique step pyramid of Zoser (also known as Djoser), the first ever pyramid, constructed of six tombs built on top of each other.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA at time of Confirmation

Cairo Aswan Nile Cruise

Early this morning you will be transferred to the airport for a short internal flight down to Aswan. Upon arrival you will be transferred to our 5-star Nile cruise ship. After some time to freshen up we'll begin our Nile quest by visiting the High Dam of Aswan, where your guide will explain to you how the construction of the dam and subsequent creation of Lake Nasser required the relocation of the Nubian people and several important historical monuments, including Abu Simbel, which you have the opportunity to visit tomorrow. We'll then take a short boat ride to Agilkia Island to explore the Temple of Isis at Philae. Built during the Ptolemaic Kingdom (305 BC to 30 BC), the temple is dedicated to Isis, one of the oldest goddesses of ancient Egypt and worshipped as the paragon of motherly virtues. It is believed that the last Egyptian hieroglyph was written on the island of Philae in the late fourth century.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: 5* Nile cruise ship

Kom - Ombo - Edfu

This morning you will have the opportunity to join our optional excursion to the temples of Abu Simbel, two massive temples in southern Egypt. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Nubian Monuments", these iconic temples were carved out of the mountainside in the 13th century BC, during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II.

The tour then continues with a visit to the Temple of Kom-Ombo, a unique 'double' temple dedicated to both the crocodile god Sobek, and the falcon god Haroeris (Horus). After some time to explore the temple, we'll head to Edfu. Also dedicated to Horus, this temple is more than 2,000 years old but was covered by sand until it was re-discovered by a French expedition in 1798. Because it was hidden for so long it is the most well-preserved temple in Egypt. We'll then continue on to Luxor, where we'll spend the night onboard the 5-star cruise ship.

Meals: Meals whilst on board

Accommodation: 5* Nile cruise ship

Luxor - Karnak Temple

After breakfast we will arrive in Luxor and tour the East Bank of Luxor. Experience the incredible Karnak temple complex, part of the ancient city of Thebes. Dedicated to the powerful ram-headed god Amun, it offers a vast mix of temples, chapels, statues and obelisks. We'll then explore Luxor temple, an place of worship that is dedicated to three gods: Amun, his wife Mut and his son Khons. Together these temples and gods are key players in the great Opet Festival which was held each year during the flood season.

Meals: Meals whilst on board

Accommodation: 5* Nile cruise ship

Valley of the Kings - Hatshepsut Hurghada

This morning we'll start our tour of the west bank with a visit to the World famous Valley of the Kings, where you can enter some of the incredible tombs of the New Kingdom Pharaohs, such as King Tutankhamen. We'll then get to experience the Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir El Bahary), the mortuary temple of the only Pharaoh Queen that ruled Egypt. The day will finish off with a visit to the great Colossi of Memnon, the last remains of Amenophis III’s temple. We'll then take our air-conditioned private bus to Hurghada on the Red Sea coast, where we will be staying in an all-inclusive resort.

Meals: Meals whilst on board and at all-inclusive resort

Accommodation: Hurghada Resort 

Hurghada

This is a free day for you to enjoy however you wish. The resort in Hurghada offers a large swimming pool complex, long sandy beaches and all-inclusive food and drink; total relaxation awaits! Alternatively, you can choose to take part in any number of water sport activities, including full-day snorkelling and scuba diving excursions. The seas around Hurghada offer some of the best coral reef dive spots in the world, giving the opportunity to see many colorful fish species, including the Red Sea Clownfish, Emperor Angelfish, Picasso Trigger Fish and Moray Eels. Overnight at the resort in Hurghada.

Meals: All-inclusive resort

Accommodation: Hurghada Resort 

Hurghada - Cairo

This morning we'll take an air-conditioned private mini bus back to Cairo. After some time to freshen up at our hotel, we'll visit the Egyptian museum to learn more about the country's incredible ancient history, followed by the old city of Cairo where you can explore Khan El Khalili, a bazaar crammed with souvenir shops, cafés and shisha bars.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA at time of Confirmation

Cairo Rome, Italy

After breakfast at our hotel in Cairo, you will be transfered to the airport for your flight to Rome.

On arrival in Italy you will be transferred to you overnight hotel in Rome. The remainder of the day is free.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA at time of Confirmation

Rome

Today you will be transferred to the port of Civitavecchia to check in for your cruise on 'MSC Europa' (or similar) for your 7 night Mediterranean Cruise.

Meals: Meals once onboard 

Accommodation: 'MSC Europa'

 Palermo, Sicily - Italy

Sunny Palermo is Sicily's capital city and historic center. Sightseeing tours visit 12th-century churches like the Palatine Chapel, with its blend of European, Sicilian, Byzantine and Arabic influences, as well as the Capuchin Catacombs, medieval town squares and an array of palaces. Street vendors peddle Sicilian puppets and open-air markets display fresh fish, fruits and vegetables along with street eats like chickpea fritters and potato croquettes. Other excursions venture to the picturesque town of Monreale, known for its fine mosaics and Norman cathedral; Zingaro, Sicily's first nature reserve; and the seaside resort village of Cefalu.

Meals: All meals onboard 

Accommodation: 'MSC Europa'

 Valletta, Malta

The Fortress City of Valletta, Malta's capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect place to start your Malta adventure. Verdant gardens overlook an island topped with medieval castles, forts, the Grand Harbor, minarets and Baroque churches. Many tours visit the Grandmaster's Palace, home to the country's government since it was built in 1571, as well as the must-see St. John's Co-Cathedral and Museum, which displays two of Caravaggio's masterpieces. Various outings stop in the walled town of Mdina (the former capital), where you can shop and dine along quaint streets and tour a hand-blown glass factory for up-close looks into the production of the island specialty. The clear-blue Mediterranean waters welcome divers for excursions among artificial reefs, WWII military wreckage and-most famously-underwater caves.

Meals: All meals onboard 

Accommodation: 'MSC Europa'

 At Sea

Today is a day at sea. Take the opportunity to relax or enjoy the ships facilities.

Meals: All meals onboard 

Accommodation: 'MSC Europa'

 Barcelona, Spain

With mountains to the west and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea to the east, Barcelona possesses panoramic beauty. Among the most-visited sites in the Catalonia region's capital are structures designed by Antoni Gaudi, including the colorful Casa Batllo, whimsical Park Guell and Barcelona's most iconic building, the Expiatory Temple of the Holy Family, known locally as the Sagrada Familia. Walking tours are popular here, with plenty to admire in the Gothic Quarter and on La Rambla, a bustling pedestrian street lined with stalls and trees. Foodies find themselves on tours of tapas restaurants or exploring the sprawling Mercat de la Boqueria, a covered market with roots in the 13th century. For soccer fans, an excursion to Camp Nou, the home stadium for FC Barcelona, proves an exciting pilgrimage.

Meals: All meals onboard 

Accommodation: 'MSC Europa'

 Marseille, France

As France's second-largest city and home to the country's biggest commercial port, Marseille is cosmopolitan and vibrant. This Mediterranean gateway boasts the storied Old Port that dates to 600 B.C., quaint neighborhoods, top-notch shopping and world-renowned seafood. A climb up the roughly 500-foot Garde Hill yields 360-degree panoramas and a visit to the city's beloved symbol: Notre Dame de la Garde, an 1864 Byzantine-style basilica topped with a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary. Artists and authors alike have been inspired by the sparkling bay and verdant cliffs here, prompting iconic works from the likes of Paul Cezanne. The picturesque coastline beckons with beautiful beaches and opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, swimming and snorkeling.

Meals: All meals onboard 

Accommodation: 'MSC Europa'

 Genoa, Italy

As the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa played a significant role in the European Age of Exploration. Most tours visit the home where the navigator and colonist was born, along with landmarks like the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Wander the medieval alleys of the historic center, marvel at the frescoes and tapestries in the Palazzo del Principe and admire the architectural masterpieces along Via Garibaldi and Palazzi dei Rolli. For panoramic views of the area, the Art Nouveau lift transports you to the observation platform, Spianata Castelletto. One can't-miss attraction is Europe's largest aquarium, a nearly 300,000-square-foot facility that hosts dolphins, penguins, seals, sharks and more. No visit to Genoa is complete without a stop in the commercial hub of Piazza de Ferrari, which features an iconic bronze fountain. Within daytrip distance are Milan, with its designer boutiques, and Portofino, a fishing village known for its pastel-colored houses.

Meals: All meals onboard 

Accommodation: 'MSC Europa'

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Transfer to from the cruise port back to the city of Rome. Overnight on your centrally located hotel for the next 2 nights. The remainder of the day is free to explore to Roman Capital at leisure.

On Italy's Lazio coast, a 16th-century fortress welcomes cruisers to Civitavecchia, Rome's main port. This stunning Mediterranean village is 50 miles northwest of the capital city. Rome's influence on art, intellect, politics and religion helped shape the Western world, and much from its storied past still can be seen today. Can't-miss tour destinations include Vatican City's Sistine Chapel, featuring frescoes painted by Michelangelo; the Roman Forum ruins, home to impressive temples from the ancient metropolis; and the Colosseum, built in A.D. 80 as an amphitheater for gladiator battles and war games. As you stroll cobblestone streets with a slice of authentic pizza or a cone of creamy gelato, make sure to pose for a photo at the Spanish Steps and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the Eternal City. Culinary tours venture to vineyards and groves for wine sips and olive oil dips.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA at time of Confirmation

Rome

Explore all the major sights of Rome on a double-decker, hop-on hop-off bus that gives you 360-degree views of the Italian capital's ancient charms. Enjoy unlimited rides within the validity of your pass, stopping at world-famous attractions including the Colosseum, the Vatican, St Peter's Basilica, and the Trevi Fountain.

With the ultimate freedom to take in the city at your own pace, stroll through the magnificent Pantheon, taste authentic Italian spaghetti near the Spanish Steps, or just sit back and enjoy people-watching at the bustling Piazza Navona.

Take in the Colosseum's arcaded façade, do some window shopping at the chic fashion boutiques of Via Veneto, or investigate traditional cafe culture in the many piazzas. Along the way, listen to informative commentary that brings each sight within the Eternal City to life.

Meals: None

Accommodation: TBA at time of Confirmation

Rome  Delhi, India

Today you will be transfered from the hotel to Rome airport for your overnight flight to Delhi in India.

Menu: Inflight menu

Delhi

Welcome to India! Keep your eyes peeled at the airport for the Travel Talk sign as we pick you up from the airport and take you to our Delhi hotel. Meet with your guide and group at 630PM in the lobby for a quick informal meeting about your tour in India. Afterwards you’ll have free time to start exploring Delhi and get to know your fellow travellers over an optional group dinner.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Mantra Amaltas Hotel

Delhi

Get ready for a big day ahead on your first day of tour exploring the bustling city of Delhi! We’ll begin the day by visiting Old Delhi, marvelling at the impressive Red Fort, The Raj Ghat and the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Then get ready for some chaotic fun as we visit the jam-packed lanes of Chandni Chowk by rickshaw.

Experience the busiest commercial area of the city and atmosphere of an oriental bazaar. In the afternoon we will head to the modern New Delhi, where you’ll find many historic monuments such as the 12th Century Qutab Minar and Humayuns’ Tomb, and in contrast wander the colourful and modern Lakshimi Narayan Temple.

Before we end the day, we will drive past the India Gate, the President’s Residence and the Parliament House.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Mantra Amaltas Hotel

Delhi - Jaipur

Hit the road and depart Delhi in the morning to drive 6 hours to Jaipur, also known as the ‘Pink City’ due to the vibrant peachy colours of the buildings. Offering incredible architecture and raw natural beauty, Jaipur is a vibrant and bustling city spread out over the old and new, and is almost equidistant from Delhi and Agra forming part of the famed Golden Triangle. In the evening, prepare to be mesmerised by a traditional Hindu prayer ritual, Aarti at Birla Temple.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Golden Tulip Hotel

Jaipur

Begin the day with a photo stop at Hawa Mahal or ‘Palace of the Winds’ before you start exploring all Jaipur has to offer with a city tour. Check out Amber Fort where you’ll be able to explore this traditional Rajasthani Fort. In the afternoon, stop by City Palace, a huge sprawling complex which is still home to the former royal family who live in one section. Check off another UNESCO World Heritage site from your list at Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory featuring the world’s largest stone sundial.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Golden Tulip Hotel

Jaipur - Agra

After breakfast depart for Galta Temple, also known as Monkey Temple and Abhaneri Stepwell, an impressive 9th century well. Later, The Golden Triangle journey continues as we head to Agra. En-route we will visit the Ghost City of Fatehpur Sikri, including the visit to the Jama Masjid & the tomb of the sufi saint Salim Chisti.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Howard Plaza

Agra

Our day starts with a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra Fort. Then be sure to get your cameras ready! We’re heading to the iconic Taj Mahal for sunset! A trip to India isn’t complete without visiting this beautiful marble monument and learning why Emperor Shah Jahan laboured for over 22 years to build this impressive masterpiece.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Howard Plaza

or Agra - Varanasi 

Today you will take either an overnight train or flight – the choice is yours to make when booking.

Enjoy a free morning to explore the bustling city of Agra at your own pace and try the variety of tasty food the city has to offer. Freshen up before you get ready for a big travel stint as we leave Agra at 745PM to board an overnight train to Varanasi.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight Train or Hotel Amayaa

Varanasi

Wake up in Varanasi, a pilgrim-drawing spiritual capital of India and one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. Full of shrines and temples, it’s the ultimate destination to experience India’s spirituality. In the morning you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in.Later, we will tour the sites of Varanasi, including the Bharat Mata Temple & Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple and the Bhu, the biggest residential university in Asia. In the evening you’re in for a treat, as you witness Aarti, a highly choreographed ritual prayer ceremony honouring the Ganges River.

Meals: Breakfast if chosing the flight option and staying overnight

Accommodation: Hotel Amayaa

or  Varanasi - Delhi

Early bird catches the worm as we embark before sunrise to Daswamedh Ghat.

Take in a memorable sunrise as you journey via boat along the sacred river Ganges to see the cremation Ghats and witness the living traditions of one of the world’s oldest religions. Return for a walk through the cobblestone streets along the banks of “Ganga” and take in the bustling atmosphere as it becomes a beehive of activity.

Check out Kashi Vishwanath Temple and return to the hotel for breakfast.

Afterwards, discover Sarnath, the premier centre for Buddhism with a rich collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques. The afternoon is yours to enjoy before we get ready to embark an overnight train to Delhi late in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight Train or TBA at time of Confirmation

Delhi Australia

What a trip! Enjoy your last breakfast and start seeing off your new-found friends before checkout at 11AM. Luckily it’s not a final goodbye, but only until next time!

Don’t forget to arrange your departure transfer to the airport with your guide. Time to start counting down the days until your next adventure.

Meals: Breakfast if chosing the flight option and staying overnight and Inflight Menu

Australia

Arrive Home. We hope you have had a memorable Round World Tour with us!