2020 GeoEx Catalog

JON ARNOLD IMAGES LTD / ALAMY

New Trips S ince the get-go, we’ve been passionate about finding new, creative, and authentic travel experiences for our guests. Here is some of our latest work. Off the Map in Eastern Bhutan: We venture into the ultra-remote eastern half of Bhutan with Brent Olson to explore ancient Buddhist temples, bird-filled forests, and extraordinary textiles. See page 21. Bhutan’s Hidden Highlands Trek: This rarified expedition travels through pristine scenery to the base of 24,836-foot Gangkhar Puensuum, the world’s highest unclimbed mountain massif. See page 22. Legendary Nepal: Based from a favorite home of Sir Edmund Hillary in the untouristed Solu Khumbu, we hike to monasteries and revel in snowcapped summits, helicopter rides, and Sherpa culture. See page 23. Soul of Sri Lanka: We discover Hindu temples and golden beaches in the off-the-radar north before turn- ing south for archaeological gems, breathtaking tea trails, colonial forts, and elephant-filled jungle. See page 30. Vietnam Family Journey: Our explorations through enchanting towns and far-flung villages are enlivened by Vespa rides, cooking classes, market tours, bamboo rafting, and lantern-making. See page 32. Mongolia's Altai Eagle Festival: We attend the lower- profile Altai Eagle Festival for a thrilling, authentic look at Kazakh traditions and immerse ourselves in the vast, magnificent Gobi Desert. See page 42.

Oman Family Odyssey: Cultural and active jaunts engage the whole family from Muscat to the Wahabi Sands with stops for camel riding, bazaar browsing, and dips in dramatic wadis. See page 47. Saudi Arabia: Our trailblazing journey traverses this Islamic kingdom, marveling at ultra-modern cities, age-old rock art, and mud-brick villages and exploring the country’s changing way of life. See page 48. Egypt Insider: This all-women trip gets to know Egypt’s history and heart through a female lens, enjoying uncom- mon tomb openings, a private dahabeya cruise, and two exceptional leaders. See page 54. Secrets of Tanzania: Legendary adventurer Kingsley Holgate and safari savant Brad Hansen reveal Tanzania during two secret seasons, showcasing sensational wildlife and rarely seen cultures. See page 60. Solar Eclipse Argentina and Patagonia Icons: For the best viewing of the 2020 eclipse, we have exclu- sive use of a private ranch set in the path of totality, plus astronomer Dr. Ed Krupp to guide us. See page 78. Ice Bear Explorer: An ice-class ship carries us far north to the Svalbard archipelago, where we search tidewater glaciers, towering icebergs, and deep fjords for polar bears and other surprising Arctic life. See page 96. New Zealand Family Wonders: This North to South Island adventure features bubbling geysers, Maori tra­ ditions, glowworm-illuminated caves, jaw-dropping mountains, and plenty of outdoor fun. See page 99.

A border is always a temptation.

JON ARNOLD IMAGES LTD / ALAMY

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FACING  Tea harvesting at Nuwara Eliya, or Little England, central highlands, Sri Lanka.  ABOVE  Looking into the main chamber of the Temple of Ramses II, Abu Simbel, Egypt.

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