Experience the grandeur of the American West as you explore five fantastic national parks on this exciting journey. In Arizona, contemplate the vast beauty of the Grand Canyon, and in Yellowstone, relish iconic sights like Old Faithful and Yellowstone Lake. Marvel at the magnitude and color of Zion’s cliffs and the hoodoos and spires at Bryce Canyon. Enjoy 2-night stays in Springdale, Utah (Zion) and Jackson Hole. Drive through the incredible Bighorn Mountains and the great Sioux Nations Territory before seeing Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monument. Meet a local Lakota Native American at dinner and learn about their fascinating way of life, past and present. Gain new appreciation of the great outdoors on this journey that takes you from the Grand Canyon to Mount Rushmore National Memorial and everywhere in between.

Calendar? Astronomy? Alien artwork? None of the above. But the discovery of Peru’s Nazca Lines gave a whole new meaning to drawing a line in the sand. Flightseeing is the best way to see these massive geoglyphs etched into the desert— where the ancient Nazca people likely performed spiritual ceremonies. From the Lost City of the Incas surrounded by the peaks of the Andes to the floating Uros Islands on the highest lake in the world, this vacation to Peru leads you to great heights while also going to greater depths to illuminate its archaeological, historical, and cultural wonders. In addition to two days of exploration at the mysterious and magical ruins of Machu Picchu, you’ll also visit the Sillustani pre-Incan burial ground, cruise to the wildlife paradise of the Ballestas Islands, and frolic through the wonders of colonial and culinary Lima as well as the Inca capital, Cusco.

From mountains to majestic creatures, everything is bigger in Alaska. In the 20+ hours of summer sunlight a day, even the produce grows to fair-winning proportions. Of course, the 70-pound Matanuska Valley cabbage is just the beginning of the big sights this sun-soaked tour of Alaska has to offer. Just wait until you cruise along the three-mile face of the Columbia Glacier, sail by the calving tidewater glaciers of Kenai Fjords National Park and ascend into Denali National Park – home of North America’s highest peak – by way of the world-famous Alaska Railroad. Other big moments include panning for gold at Fairbanks’ Gold Dredge #8, seeing a mushing demonstration at the home of an Iditarod champion, and witnessing the grandest of wildlife from Alaska’s majestic coasts to its monumental crests. While spotting a giant whale, caribou, moose, or grizzly might be “no biggie” to the locals, we think you’ll agree, this Alaska vacation is huge.

Journey through Japan on this fascinating Globus Independent tour. A “prefecture” and capital of Japan, Tokyo is the world’s most populous metro area and home to unlimited choices—shopping, dining, entertainment, historic temples and sites, peaceful gardens, and excellent museums. Your full day private guided sightseeing tour includes Meiji Shrine, a 20th-century Shinto monument built within a man-made forest, and a visit to one of the city’s most dazzling temples, the Asakusa Kannon Temple. Browse the bustling Nakamise Shopping Arcade and then visit the Samurai & Ninja Museum, where you can learn about Japanese history and see authentic swords and armor. You’ll also ascend the Tokyo Skytree for spectacular views over the city. During your free day, you may choose a trip to Mount Fuji. A highlight of the vacation is the shinkansen (bullet train) ride from Tokyo to Kyoto. Reaching nearly 200 miles per hour, this is by far the most entertaining way to travel between cities. The “cradle” of Japan’s cultural heritage, Kyoto, was the country’s capital and residence of the emperor from the 8th until the 19th centuries. Your private guided sightseeing tour includes visits to Sanjusangendo Temple and the beautiful Temple of the Gold Pavilion. Built on a lake and surrounded by a thick forest, the image of the temple’s reflection in the water is a can’t-miss photo opportunity and memorable scenic view. You’ll also walk through Gion and explore the thousands of Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine. Take some free time for a visit to nearby Nara or to explore Nishiki Market. End your exploration of Japan in Osaka with visits to Osaka Castle and Minami, the famous entertainment district and where the locals go for fun.

Encounter a world of untamed beauty as you discover Iceland’s adventurous landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Travel the stunning Golden Circle and visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir thermal field, and the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall. Interact with friendly Icelandic horses. Go whale watching in Skjálfandi Bay aboard specialized RIB Zodiac boats. Savor Icelandic delicacies during a visit to a local goat farm. Ascend the Langjökull glacier in a super truck surrounded by uninterrupted mountain scenery. In Reykjavík, choose between taking a dip in the famous Sky Lagoon or a thrilling virtual experience ride. From ethereal lava fields to thundering waterfalls and coastal villages, this tour reveals the island’s dramatic contrasts.

Bask in the warm Celtic culture and majestic scenery of two remarkable lands. Come to know the regal city of Edinburgh on a panoramic tour by coach and by foot. Cruise the famed Loch Ness and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Enjoy a traditional evening of Scottish food and entertainment. Visit the Titanic Experience Museum in Belfast and remember the century-old tragedy that shook the world, or visit the Ulster Museum, telling human stories through art and historical artifacts. Walk the Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO) and soak up incredible views of the Causeway Coast along the way. Visit Ireland’s bustling capital city of Dublin and tour historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From rugged natural beauty to vibrant and historic cities, the diverse charms of Scotland and Ireland await.

Embrace the spirit of “Aloha” on a leisurely 3-island tour of Hawaii featuring 3-night stays each in O'ahu, Big Island (Kona) and Maui. Remember Pearl Harbor and visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Take in the natural beauty of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Admire the hula dance, an ancient Polynesian art form. Visit a coffee farm in Kona and learn about the coffee bean’s journey from tree to cup. Uncover the beauty, culture and traditions of three Hawaiian Islands.

This combination of our popular faith-based vacations, “Fátima, Lourdes & Shrines of Spain” and “Spiritual Highlights of Italy,” is ideal to experience the most treasured shrines of Europe. Start your journey with the visit of the Portuguese capital, Lisbon; experience the peacefulness of the Fátima sanctuary, and the monumental stairway of the Bom Jesus du Monte Sanctuary in Braga. Continuing to Spain, take in the spiritual atmosphere of the pilgrimage destination of Santiago de Compostela and of the Burgos Cathedral. Hear the story of St. Ignacio, founder of the Jesuit Order, in Loyola and Monresa, where he lived and worked. Take advantage of the opportunity to collect in prayer at the Marian Sanctuaries of Lourdes, France and Montserrat, Catalonia, before witnessing the lively beauty of Barcelona and flying to Rome, the center of Christianity. Attend the Papal Audience (subject to availability) and see Rome’s four major basilicas, along with the Holy Steps and the Papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo. Follow in the footsteps of the most celebrated Italian saints: St. Francis in his hometown, Assisi, and St. Pio of Pietrelcina in San Giovanni Rotondo. Spend time at the Marian Sanctuary of Loreto and discover the hillside town of Cascia, St. Rita’s hometown. Mass will be celebrated at most shrines with many opportunities for reflection and prayer.

God’s Own Country…a big claim, but this is how New Zealanders—or “kiwis”—refer to their country. Why? Maybe it’s the spectacular scenery, the world’s first sunrise each morning, or the birthplace of bungee jumping. Whatever the reason, your independent spirit is right at home in New Zealand. On this 16-day Globus Independent vacation, we've arranged your hotel accommodations, daily breakfast (plus two lunches), sightseeing, land transportation, and transfers from/to your hotels to/from the airports for all intra-vacation flights. A one-of-a-kind special feature is your Local Host® who’s available to ensure you get the most out of your free time. We've arranged for you to have a Local Host in Sydney, Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown. Before starting your exploration of New Zealand, your vacation begins the moment you arrive in cosmopolitan Sydney, Australia for a three-night stay. Your visit includes a half-day city sightseeing tour including photo stops at the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge plus a visit to Bondi Beach, one of the city’s famous beaches. Your Sydney Local Host is available to help you with additional sightseeing, dining, and shopping recommendations. Then you’ll fly to Auckland, where your Local Host will greet you with a warm welcome and a set of materials to help you get settled and familiar with the city. The next day, we've arranged guided sightseeing with a local expert, including Queen Street, the city’s business district, Auckland University and the Domain, an inner-city park. From Auckland, we've arranged your transportation to Matamata, where you’ll visit the Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. In Wellington, capital of New Zealand, you'll enjoy a guided sightseeing tour that reveals the local, insider stories and takes in the must-see sights. And did we mention that in Rotorua we've included visits to Te Puia, home to 500 geothermal wonders. Then, you're off to Christchurch on New Zealand's South Island. Your Local Host will be waiting for you in Christchurch with materials to help you become acquainted with the area. We’ll take you on an excursion to Akaroa for a cruise to see native wildlife. Continue on to Queenstown, the "Adventure Capital of the World." Here, we’ll take you on what will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip: a cruise on Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Sometimes called the “Sound of Silence,” you’ll be awed by its abundant flora and fauna, as well as its raw beauty. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time to enjoy optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

Small groups translate to great experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour. Designed from the ground up for a maximum of 18 guests in Europe, this Small Group Discovery tour has everything you need to explore with up-close-and-exclusive experiences that go beyond traditional tours. With more room to roam in Rome and space to savor the pleasures and treasures of Umbria and Tuscany, you’ll never miss a sight, bite, or decadent delight from the Eternal City to the timeless traditions of culture, cuisine, and captivating romance in Venice and Florence. Share the sweet life with your small group companions while dipping into chocolate, discovering secret recipes, daydreaming by gondola, or drinking wine with a few of your closest amici. And find more amore in the avenues and venues that are perfect for small groups on this Small Group Discovery tour in Umbria and Tuscany. Che bello!

Embark on a journey through the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Kauai and Maui, where adventure meets tranquility. Drift down the serene Wailua River, explore the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, and immerse yourself in the history and heritage of the Iao Valley. Sample seasonal fresh fruit, discover the sustainable practices on a macadamia nut farm, and experience the warmth of Hawaiian hospitality at a traditional luau. Enjoy luxurious stays at premier resorts on Kauai and Maui, where you can relax on pristine beaches or embark on thrilling adventures. From the sight of the iconic Iao Needle to the lore of the hula, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural connections, and relaxation.

Embrace the spirit of “Aloha” on a leisurely 3-island tour of Hawaii featuring 3-night stays each in O'ahu, Big Island (Kona) and Maui. Remember Pearl Harbor and visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Take in the natural beauty of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Admire the hula dance, an ancient Polynesian art form. Visit a coffee farm in Kona and learn about the coffee bean’s journey from tree to cup. Uncover the beauty, culture and traditions of three Hawaiian Islands.

Laugh and the kookaburras laugh with you. Cry and the kookaburras still laugh. That’s the beauty of a journey to happy-go-lucky Australia where sunny days are accentuated by its even sunnier inhabitants. Koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats are among the many locals eager to greet you on this breezy tour of Australia. With visits to four wondrous waterfront cities, you’ll easily see why the world gushes about the land Down Under. Go behind the scenes at Brisbane’s Australia Zoo, snorkel above the dazzling coral at the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Cairns and devour the panoramic scenery and a delicious lunch at the iconic Sydney Opera House. With two days in eclectic Melbourne, you can also gobble up all the goodies this hipster city and surrounding areas have to offer. Perhaps take in the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island or chill with a nice chardonnay at a Yarra Valley winery. This 12-day tour shows you all the Great Sights of Australia!

This fast-paced Scotland and Ireland tour focuses on their rich history, with plenty of castle tours and museums to help bring the past to life. It's the perfect trip for those interested in exploring Scottish and Irish heritage.

Explore Iceland's incomparable waterfalls, geysers, glaciers and landscapes, but take in so much more as you focus on its fascinating culture and heritage. Discover life in early Viking settlements, the land of the sagas, the distinctive Icelandic horses, and the modern people of Iceland.

Explore some of the most historic cities and towns of Scotland and Ireland . Be enchanted by the Isle of Skye, St Andrews, Connemara, and the Ring of Kerry.

Designed from the ground up for a maximum of 24 guests in Africa, this Small Group Discovery tour has everything you need to explore with up-close-and-exclusive experiences that go beyond traditional tours. Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour of Africa with a lion’s share of captivating cities, private game reserves, natural wonders, and wondrous wildlife? Point your compass south for the diverse and enchanting sights of South Africa and Zimbabwe. The glorious panoramas from Cape Town’s Table Mountain and the candy-hued streets of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood set the stage for the sweet sights to come. Six open-air game drives in Kruger National Park offer a fascinating glimpse of up to 42 mammal species and 350 bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for the “Big 5”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo—before branching out in Johannesburg. Here, you’ll explore Soweto, the city’s largest township, including the former home of Nelson Mandela and the significant sites of the anti-apartheid movement. Your South Africa vacation crescendos at Victoria Falls, called Mosi-oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders) on the Zambezi River. Twice the height of Niagara Falls, this breathtaking waterfall spanning the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia offers twice the photo ops. A Small Group Discovery tour for the wild mannered!

Set your sights on the European journey of a lifetime and discover all the must-sees of England, France, Switzerland, and Italy. See the incredible sights of London, from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben. Take the Eurostar train to Paris and personalize your stay by touring the “City of Lights” on a relaxed panoramic drive or on a walking tour of the hilltop Montmartre district. Take in breathtaking views from your dinner table aboard a Parisian riverboat. Board a high-speed train bound for Lucerne, the enchanting Swiss city on a cobalt lake and one of Switzerland’s most beautiful places. In Venice, discover a floating city where iconic landmarks of centuries-old history line canals dotted with gondolas. Tour Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Finally, in Rome, bask in cultural treasures and envelop yourself in the history of the “Eternal City,” which includes a visit to the Sistine Chapel. Storied history, mouthwatering cuisine, and iconic landscapes await.

From medieval architecture to ethereal waterfalls, coast along the sparkling Adriatic Sea and experience the best of Croatia. Enjoy a memorable 7-night cruise on the Adriatic Sea along Croatia’s coast aboard a privately chartered ship. Tour the Old City of Dubrovnik and walk along the picturesque cobblestone streets. Visit the island of Biševo, home to the mystical Blue Cave. On Brac Island, take in the “Golden Cape” of Bol. Discover the ancient palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split. Stand in awe before the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park. Get to know Zagreb, the illustrious capital of Croatia. See the country’s immaculate beauty as you cruise its vibrant waters and step into its rich history.

Journey through America’s last great frontier to discover awe-inspiring beauty, inviting locals, and rich cultural heritage. Learn the art of gold panning from two local sisters in Fairbanks. Tour Fairbanks and see the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline up close. Meet mushers and the dogs of the Trail Breaker Kennel. Travel the scenic Alaska Railroad from Fairbanks to Denali in a domed railcar. Head into Denali National Park on a full-day Tundra Wilderness Tour. Experience small-town Alaskan life in Talkeetna. Meet new furry friends at Musk Ox Farm. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to delve into the region’s indigenous culture. Embark on a glacier cruise of Prince William Sound, narrated by an expert guide. This is Alaska – a land without parallel.

All aboard for a spectacular 9-day adventure through the American Southwest! Your tour through Colorado and Utah begins with an overnight stay in the ‘Mile High City’ of Denver—5,280 feet above sea level. In Colorado Springs, board the Pikes Peak cog railway to reach the summit that inspired ‘America the Beautiful.’ Explore the stunning desert landscapes of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, and the ancient indigenous dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park. Embark on a two-day scenic rail journey aboard the Canyon Spirit train from the outdoor mecca of Moab through Colorado Canyons National Conservation Area and over the Continental Divide to return to Denver. You’ll also explore the natural treasures of Great Sand Dunes National Park and the scenic Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Moab so you can plan your day your way.

Explore magnificent national parks and reserves on this exciting Kenya and Tanzania safari. Travel from Nairobi to Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s most famous game area. Here embark on morning and afternoon game drives in the “Mara”—home to lion, cheetah, leopard, hyena, wildebeest, and zebra. Next, explore Amboseli National Park—known for its spectacular views of 19,341-ft Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in search of elephants, Cape buffalo, and more. Cross the border into Tanzania and journey to Lake Manyara National Park. Explore this ecologically diverse park on a morning game drive. Your escorted African safari continues to the amazing Ngorongoro area—the astonishing crater measures 2,000 feet deep and spans 102 square miles. Revel in the fantastic game-viewing vantage point to spot lion, hippo, elephant, and flamingo. Next, you’ll enter Serengeti National Park—site of the seasonal great migration of Wildebeest, and a great game-viewing area year-round. Covering 5,700 square miles, the Serengeti will thrill you with both morning and afternoon game drives with the chance to see Nile crocodiles, big cats, giraffes, and gazelles. This escorted Africa safari through Kenya and Tanzania is a dream-come-true for the adventurous of spirit.

See the England of your dreams on this sweeping tour, discovering castles and cathedrals, scholarly Oxford and Cambridge, Bath’s Georgian splendor, the Lake District, and so much more.

Experience the beauty of Ireland’s southwest on a small-group walking and hiking tour, limited to just 16 guests. Discover the wild beauty of West Cork and Kerry on this light active tour, featuring daily guided hikes through the Beara Peninsula, Killarney National Park, and the Dingle Peninsula. Along the way, explore iconic sites like the Rock of Cashel and Muckross House, visit hidden gems such as Garnish Island, and enjoy hands-on cultural experiences like turf-cutting and breadmaking. Evenings bring time to unwind in charming towns like Glengarriff and Dingle, perfect for enjoying traditional music in a cozy pub. Ideal for active travelers, with up to 5 hours of scenic walking daily (2–6 miles) on mostly gentle paths and hill trails. Expect occasional muddy or rough sections and climbs up to 1,500 feet.

Love a good mystery? This 15-day vacation to Peru is the perfect escape to delve into the world’s most intriguing lost and found story. Featuring not one, but two days behind the misty gates of Machu Picchu, this below-the-equator tour takes you high into the Andes and deeper inside the Lost City of the Incas to unearth its centuries-old secrets. Navigating the cryptic maze of trails, temples, and terraces in the world’s most famous forgotten city is one for the memory books. Other great finds on this tantalizing tour of Peru? Up-close encounters with llamas, alpacas, and other Sacred Valley locals; vibrant, handwoven textiles in the former Inca Empire capital of Cusco; bold, multicultural cuisine in the foodie capital of Lima; and a warm welcome inside a traditional family home for an authentic taste of Peruvian hospitality. There’s more wonder to discover beneath the Andes and within the wilderness of the Peruvian Amazon. Canopy walks, canoe rides, and higher speed motorboat jaunts offer varying perspectives of the macaws, monkeys, and a myriad of other rainforest creatures you’ll discover when you start your tour of Peru in the Amazon. Craving a deeper Peruvian experience? Add the Colca Canyon and Arequipa to your Peru vacation. Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon is the second deepest canyon in the world. Enjoy the spectacular views below while the giant condor soars above. A visit to the “White City” of Arequipa, built from white volcanic rock, promises more dramatic views.