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Top Picks Trips & Tours

81 Top Picks trips. Tours from 89 tour companies. 12 reviews.

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18 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Unesco Discovery
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Unesco Discovery

By Audley Travel
preferred
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An

Highlights

  • Journey through the beautiful Ninh Binh region with its dramatic limestone karsts.
  • Explore some of the world's largest caves at Phong Nha National Park and camp overnight inside.
  • Unearth Vietnam's modern and ancient history in imperial Hue.
  • Stray off the beaten track and visit one of Vietnam's forgotten minority tribes.
  • Explore the charming streets of Hoi An's UNESCO recognised Old Town or simply relax on one of the many nearby beaches.

Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"It's hard to describe how lucky we are to have been able to work with Stephanie in planning our honeymoon to Japan. From the very beginning, Stephanie was friendly, flexible, and an absolute wealth of knowledge. We had several meetings with her leading up to our trip to come up with the perfect itinerary. Throughout this, Stephanie was mindful of our budget, without sacrificing anything. During our trip, Audley was available at all hours to help with anything and everything which was such a relief to know we had that resource available to us. I truly cannot imagine having planned this trip without all of Stephanie's guidance and knowledge- and cannot imagine taking another big trip like this without the help of Audley. Thank you again!"

Trip dates & details
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16 days From$4,765
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Southern Africa: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana
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Southern Africa: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana

By Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)
none
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Chobe National Park, Hwange National Park, Kruger National Park, Victoria Falls

Highlights

  • Travel to South Africa with experienced Trip Leaders and driver-guides
  • Visit Kruger National Park for wildlife viewing
  • Explore the beautiful Victoria Falls
  • Stay in cozy lodges and tents, enjoying campfire by night

Themes

Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

Trip dates & details
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17 days From$4,295
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Sourcing the perfect cup with micato: A coffee connoisseur's tour of kenya and tanzania
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Sourcing the perfect cup with micato: A coffee connoisseur's tour of kenya and tanzania

By Micato Safaris
none
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Arusha, Masai Mara National Park, Mt. Kenya, Ngorongoro Crater

Highlights

  • --Visit to local fair-trade coffee purveyor Dormans features a discussion with a buyer from the Kenyan Coffee Exchange --A drive north borders the mountainous Aberdare National Park --The extinct volcano of Mt. Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa, and coffee and pineapple plantations fill the gap between its slopes and Nairobi. --Short drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area --Drive into the crater provides excellent opportunities to view elephants, black rhinos, and flamingos, along with herds of zebra, gazelles, and wildebeest

Themes

Culinary & Wine

What travelers are saying

"Top notch safari company. This was my first time going on a safari and it was excellent. Everything went as planned. The company was very prepared to deal with the Covid situation and I felt very safe with their updated protocols. I would highly recommend"

Trip dates & details
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11 days
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Mystical West Africa - Traditions, Voodoo, and Craft
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Mystical West Africa - Traditions, Voodoo, and Craft

By GeoEx
preferred
5/5 Excellent
19 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Accra, Benin, Lome, Togo

Highlights

  • Venture far off the tourist track into Benin, Togo, and Ghana
  • Unique access to traditions, including voodoo ceremonies, mask dances, and bead making
  • Spectacular contrasts: the cosmopolitan capital Lomé, the rural stilt village of Ganvie, the beautiful beaches of Accra

Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"I have had a couple great travel experiences through GeoEx. My first trip, she helped book my travels to Ireland for my brothers wedding. She did a great job coordinating hotels with other family members and planning my entire trip including events, dinners, transportation, etc."

Trip dates & details
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13 days From$6,800
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Malawi, Zambia & Zimbabwe
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Malawi, Zambia & Zimbabwe

By ElderTreks
preferred
4.4/5 Great
14 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Hwange National Park, Lake Malawi, Lusaka, South Luangwa National Park, Victoria Falls, Zambezi River

Highlights

  • Feel the thunder of Victoria Falls (UNESCO)
  • Explore Great Zimbabwe ruins (UNESCO)
  • Enjoy game drives in Hwange, Matobo (UNESCO), Matusadona N.P, South Luangwa N.P, Lake Malawi N.P., Lower Zambezi N.P.
  • Enjoy visits to local villages and schools
  • Khami ruins, (UNESCO)

Themes

50 plus, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari

What travelers are saying

"Our family booked a tour Nov 2018 and paid the balance in full Jan 2020. Mar 2020 rec'd an email saying that the tour is cancelled-COVID. ONLY choice is a 50% refund or 100% credit towards a NEW booking until Oct 31/2022. Credit can NOT be put towards our already booked tour in Jan 2021. VERY unhappy and unsatisfied traveller."

Trip dates & details
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21 days From$11,995
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Chicago & New Orleans On Your Own – Roundtrip
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Chicago & New Orleans On Your Own – Roundtrip

By Pullman Rail Journeys
none
Private Guided
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Chicago

Highlights

  • Enjoy the Windy City
  • Enjoy the Big Easy
  • Arrive in Chicago

Themes

Train & Rail Journeys

Trip dates & details
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7 days From$839
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Mexico Surf and Yoga Adventure
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Mexico Surf and Yoga Adventure

By Access Trips
preferred
5/5 Excellent
21 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Pacific Ocean

Highlights

  • Eco-luxe ocean-front rooms or ocean-view villas
  • Gentle, easy breaks, ideal for beginners and intermediates
  • Award-winning surf instruction Boat ride to marine park for snorkelling
  • Yoga classes

Themes

High Adventure, Relaxing Retreats, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness

What travelers are saying

"My husband and I are world travelers and do not normally take tours. Our guide was phenomenal with a great sense of humor. We saw way more than we would have seen on our own. Every detail was planned perfectly. Thank you"

Trip dates & details
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7 days From$2,100
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Wilderness Walking: The Outer Hebrides and Skye
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Wilderness Walking: The Outer Hebrides and Skye

By Wilderness Scotland
none
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Eilean Donan Castle, Scottish Highlands

Highlights

  • Visit one of the most diverse and spectacular regions of Europe, indulging in the wild scenery and rich history of the islands
  • Experience the rich ornithology of Lewis, spy red deer and golden eagles on Harris, and seek out otters on Skye
  • Enjoy exceptional Highland hospitality at our carefully selected guest houses, set in magnificent locations on the coast

Themes

High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Super three days and good fun with our guide. Also, a learning experience."

Trip dates & details
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7 days From$1,655
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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18 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Top Picks Reviews

V

VMH

Nov 2017

Provided byNational Geographic Expeditions

great sights. Great local guides. Impatient unpleasant photographer leader

The local guide went above and beyond. The sights were amazing. The accommodations and meals much better than expected. Lots of driving but in good cars with good...

Tour:  Tibet and Nepal: Journey to the Highest Himalaya

W

Will Travel For Adventures

Nov 2016

Written on

Exceeded our expectations

We have been on many REI trips, mainly because of the talented local guides. Our guide on this trip, Mike (a first time REI guide) has to be right at the top of the ...

Tour:  South Africa Ultimate Adventure & Safari

A

Afton Runner

Nov 2016

Written on

Wonderful

I arrived in South Africa expecting good things. I left with a whole new view of the country. It is more than wonderful places. It filled with amazing people, flora ...

Tour:  South Africa Ultimate Adventure & Safari

S

Susan49

May 2016

Written on

We loved it!

We loved the entire itinerary, and the accommodations and food were excellent. Our stay in Sabi Sabi and the safaris there were just amazing...we saw every animal we...

Tour:  South Africa Ultimate Adventure & Safari

O

Over 50

Nov 2015

Written on

The safari was like nothing I have ever experienced

The safari was like nothing I have ever experienced. I was grinning the whole time. I am already planning my next REI trip. This is a beautiful trip, I will never fo...

Tour:  South Africa Ultimate Adventure & Safari

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