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We hope you’ll help us celebrate AdventureWomen’s 29th year by joining us for one of these exciting adventures in 2011!
When you find your “must do” adventure, just click on the link at the end of the trip description for full details. If the trip isn’t available on our website yet, send us your name and email address. We’ll make sure you’re one of the first to receive the itinerary and full details when they’re available.
1. January 30 – February 5, 2011
WOMEN'S DOWNHILL SKI WEEK IN MONTANA
Our week of delightful Montana skiing begins with sunshine, blue sky, and plenty of incredible snow, called the “cold smoke” because it is so light and fluffy. This is what a women’s only ski vacation and downhill ski clinic in Montana was meant to be! Come discover, OR rediscover, the pure joy of a downhill ski adventure – Montana style – at the most all-inclusive women’s ski clinic in the country. With expert women ski instructors and small groups with individual attention, women of any ability level (from those who have never skied before, to beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers), will improve not only their skiing skills, but their confidence and comfort zones. The camaraderie of skiing together with other women and your instructors is what women from our past clinics have valued as the most important aspect of the week—it provides an emotionally safe environment where each participant can learn to develop their skiing abilities and develop at her own level. Come see why so many of our past clients return year after year! Price $2,495 ($600 deposit) All Ability Levels.
> Click here for more details.
2. February 16 – 22, 2011
WINTER WONDERLAND IN YELLOWSTONE
What could be more dramatic than Yellowstone in winter—the BEST time to be in the Park due to the fewest number of visitors during this prime wildlife viewing season. Billowing geysers, frosted landscapes, frozen waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and surreal snowscapes are the magical world of winter in Yellowstone.
We begin in Big Sky, Montana, based at our favorite guest ranch. Sleighrides and dogsledding kick off our week, with the excitement and thrill of driving a dog team of well-trained athletes. Ziplining at Big Sky Ski Resort is an option! Then enter the Park on a snowcoach tour to Old Faithful and experience a natural display of unique splendors like no place else on earth! Our Big Sky-based naturalist-guide, Leslie Stoltz, will amaze you with her knowledge of the ecology and wildlife in this white-on-white wonderland. Then travel to Mammoth Hot Springs with a stopover soak in the mineral hot pools at Chico Hot Springs. Experience viewing wildlife through the beautiful landscapes of the Lamar Valley, getting a rare glimpse of the natural habitat and ecology that is home to Yellowstone’s famous wolves, bison, elk, and other animals. Snowshoe into the spectacular backcountry at Indian Creek, and enjoy a world-class dinner in the landmark dining room of Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Custom-designed by AdventureWomen, you won’t find a trip like this on anyone else’s schedule. It is a one-of-a-kind, very special itinerary, with space for only 11 participants. $2,895 ($600 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here for more details.
3. March 6 - 12, 2011
CARIBBEAN SAILING, SNORKELING, AND SCUBA DIVING IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
It’s no wonder that one of our longest-running, most popular winter getaways is our British Virgin Islands Caribbean Sail, Snorkel, and Scuba adventure. In the middle of winter, who wouldn’t want to be onboard the world’s largest luxury trimaran sailboat, enjoying a fabulous warm-weather escape with an activity level for everyone. There are water sports galore, decadent food, an incredible crew, and wonderful accommodations in 10 deluxe double staterooms—an experience rated as “one of the top five vacations in the world” by travel writers! Our days are filled with sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea kayaking in addition to eating, relaxing, and island excursions! Take your pick of activities, or just sit on the deck and read a book! Be pampered in paradise in the warm, turquoise Caribbean waters. Price $2,995 ($800 deposit) Easy to Moderate.
> Click here for more details.
4. March 7 – 19, 2011
THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS (LAND-BASED) AND THE HACIENDAS OF ECUADOR
This adventure combines it ALL: 2 nights in the capital city of Quito; 6 days in Ecuador’s spectacular Andean highlands; and a NEW 6 day/5 night, LAND-BASED Galapagos Islands exploration in Darwin’s “Enchanted Isles.” This alternative to being on a boat is the epitome of land-based programs, and has flexible options for more activities (snorkeling, kayaking, hiking) and incomparable, up-close wildlife viewing, while offering more benefits to the local population and taking less of a toll on the environment than a cruise. The Galapagos portion of the adventure is based in 3 spectacular lodges, on 3 glorious islands, with 3 incredible meals a day.
The second part of our trip takes us through vibrant green-terraced highlands, colorful Indian markets, snow-capped volcanoes, turquoise crater lakes, and the Andean charm of its elegant 16th century haciendas, where we stay for 6 nights. Ecuador—unequalled for its variety of environments and incomparable wildlife—is a microcosm of the great diversity found in South America. This is the BEST of Ecuador. Price $6,895 all inclusive (land and air) from USA to Quito, Ecuador, plus internal flight to the Galapagos Islands ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here for more details.
5. May 15 - 28, 2011
MAGICAL, MYSTICAL MOROCCO
Morocco is a land of make-believe and magic carpet rides, the kingdom where once-upon-a-time was not very long ago. Instinctively, you know that any country where office buildings have windows shaped like keyholes is no ordinary place! For the Adventure Woman who desires an in-depth view of North Africa’s most exciting destination, this inclusive and exciting adventure combines an exploration of the four Imperial Cities (Rabat, Meknes, Fes, Marrakesh) and their colorful and exotic souks; sightseeing in remote southern Morocco, with its fortified kasbahs of the high country and the “Trail of 1000 Kasbahs”; the Middle Atlas Mountains, known for their Berber villages and handicraft cooperatives; the mysterious oases of the vast Sahara Desert, a camel ride, and an overnight in the dunes; and a stay in the old Portuguese port city of Essaouira, where we enjoy a beach dinner of newly-caught fresh fish. Visits and meals with local Moroccans, exquisite accommodations, a special Moroccan cooking class at a private Riyadh, carriage rides, and shopping in a country that is a paradise of artisans and unparalleled craftsmanship, are just a few of the surprises that await us on this escape to a country that has intoxicated travelers for centuries. Price $6,295 all inclusive (land and air) from USA to Casablanca, Morocco ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here for more details.
6. June 2 - 15, 2011
THE BEST OF KENYA – A WILDLIFE AND HUMANITARIAN SAFARI
Africa is changing rapidly, and each day the continent retreats further from the “wild Africa” that we want to sustain. So come now to savor a very special safari, a unique wildlife and humanitarian experience with AdventureWomen through the rich landscapes and abundant wildlife of Kenya. Get to know the people whose cultures and traditions have existed for centuries, while giving support and aid to help them overcome multiple barriers so they may flourish long after we have returned home. Be part of educating young African children about wildlife conservation, visit the Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary, stay in an ecotourism camp that is part of a Maasai community project, and more!
Vast herds of buffalo, wildebeest, antelope, zebra, and elephant bring the bush alive with exciting drama of predator and prey. From the hustle and bustle of Nairobi to the flamingo-lined shores of Lake Nakuru, and witnessing the incredible community and wildlife of the Maasai Mara in the Northern Serengeti, you will be inspired by the bountiful spirit of the people and the country. Stay in exquisitely appointed tented camps. Be part of this very special AdventureWomen safari. East Africa doesn’t get any better than this! Price $7,995 all inclusive (land and air) from USA to Nairobi, Kenya, plus 1 internal flight ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here for more details.
7. June 3 - 11, 2011
FRANCE: BURGUNDY WINE COUNTRY HIKING
A land of long and memorable meals made from the best ingredients and accompanied by the finest of wines, the history of Burgundy is inextricably linked with wine (made here even before the arrival of Christianity), cuisine, and heritage—Bourgogne’s most treasured assets! However, although the grape may rule in this wine-lover’s paradise, scenic walks through the “land of great art and good living” are also what brought us here! A relatively flat region with just a few climbs, our walks are easy to moderate, through vineyards, timeless villages rich in tradition, historic winding streets of medieval settlements, and across rolling hills with forests of beech and oak. Our trails pass through three of France’s world-renowned vineyards: the famous Cote de Beaune and Cote de Nuits, which make up the Cote D’Or; and farther south, the Maconais, home of Pouilly Fuisse. Charming accommodations are in historic villages along the way, and our European-based guide will coach us through wine tasting and gastronomy and lead us on some of the most beautiful walking paths in rural France. Price $3,895 from Paris, France ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here and we will send you “earlybird” details as soon as they’re available. Please make sure you give us your name and email address.
8. June 26 - July 3, 2011
WHITEWATER RAFTING ON THE COLORADO RIVER THROUGH CATARACT CANYON, UTAH
After a day exploring the wonders of Utah’s Canyonlands National Park, we’re off on a whitewater rafting expedition in luxury, experiencing the rugged nature of the Colorado River’s Cataract Canyon, while wrapped in the comforts of a moving hotel and gourmet restaurant. Raft all day; hike side canyons to rock art, cliff dwellings, and hidden pools and waterfalls; then pull up to a pristine beach to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and chilled drinks. Camp staff set up our tents while a trained chef prepares a fabulous dinner served on linen covered tables with spectacular views. Whitewater rafters consider this to be among the best white water rafting in the country—112 miles of breathtaking rafting, excitement, and the gorgeous geology of the earth’s history. A MUST–DO raft trip for all adventurous women! Price $2,995 ($600 deposit) Easy to Moderate.
> Click here for more details.
9. July 23 - 29, 2011
HIKING BIG SKY COUNTRY, MONTANA
The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in Southwestern Montana is the richest wildlife preserve in the lower 48 states. Millions of acres of pristine forests, meadow land, craggy mountain peaks, and river bottoms provide a rich habitat for the abundant wildlife and premium backcountry hiking in spectacular surroundings. From any rocky ridge the 360 degree panorama is of massive mountain ranges… as far as the eye can see! With our Montana based, naturalist-guide, this trip is for women who LOVE to hike! Lovely guest ranch accommodations at night and exciting hikes during the day, combine to make this adventure Montana hiking at its finest! Price $2,695 ($600 deposit) Moderate/High Energy.
> Click here and we will send you “earlybird” details as soon as they’re available. Please make sure you give us your name and email address.
10. August 14 - 22, 2011
HORSEBACK RIDING IN ICELAND
An exciting country full of surprises and close to home, Iceland is a “hot” and exotic destination of majestic landscapes, deep fiords, thundering waterfalls, steaming hot springs, huge glaciers, ancient Viking history, and free-roaming horses. And what HORSES! Brought by the Vikings over 1,000 years ago, these legendary equines are considered to be truly unique by horse enthusiasts from around the world. With wondrously flowing manes and tails, these sure-footed and affectionate horses are known for their smooth gaits, especially their tolt, or running walk. Ideal for days of long overland travel, the tolt is what brings horseback riders back to Iceland again and again. While Europeans have long admired and respected the diverse qualities of the Icelandic horse, American riders are just beginning to recognize these wonderful animals.
Come join AdventureWomen as we ride through lovely countryside, from the hot springs area of Geyser and the famous waterfall, Gullfoss, through spectacular scenery as we ascend through beautiful birch forests and continue to a highland plateau with stunning views of Iceland’s mountains and glaciers. We herd our spare horses with us, and cross the highland moor of Hrunaheiði before completing our circle ride. An afternoon at the famous Blue Lagoon Hot Pools wraps up our Iceland riding adventure. Price $3,895 from Reykjavik, Iceland ($800 deposit) Moderate/High Energy. Intermediate riders only (you need to be very comfortable and confident on a horse outside of an arena and in open fields at a trot and a gallop).
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11. September 2 - 10, 2011
HIKING SWITZERLAND’S BERNESE OBERLAND
Ah, the Bernese Oberland, considered the center of Europe, and situated in the heart of Switzerland: deep blue lakes, lush green mountain ranges, and ice covered 13,000-foot glistening peaks with names such as Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch. We stay in the picture-postcard, car-free village of Wengen (at only 4,200 feet), at the foot of the magnificent Jungfrau mountain range, and reached only via the Wengernalp railway. We then move to our second car-free village of Bettmeralp (at 6,400 feet), accessible only by a large cable car, located near the impressive Aletsch Glacier, and the first UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Alps. Bettmeralp boasts almost 300 sunny days a year, and sits on a sun terrace high above the Rhone Valley with a view of the 4,000 meter peaks of the Valais, including the Weisshorn, Dom, and Matterhorn.
This region is a paradise for walking. Each of our days include riding a portion of the Swiss Railway System - train, cable car, or cog railway - either to or from our gorgeous planned walks. The Swiss Railway System is one of the finest in the world, and riding the trains brings us closer to the people AND the scenery. Our hikes are varied - some uphill, and some downhill, depending on what portion of the Railway System we use. We eat breakfasts and dinners at our hotels, and have picnic lunches along the trails. This hiking trip is a unique combination of natural wonders, small village charm, gorgeous Alpine scenery, and unbelievable hiking with our favorite Swiss naturalist/guide. By combining all the BESTS, we’ve come up with a hiking adventure that will enchant and delight you! Price TBA ($800 deposit) Moderate with some High Energy.
> Click here and we will send you “earlybird” details as soon as they’re available. Please make sure you give us your name and email address.
12. September 2011
THE TREASURES OF TURKEY
Beginning in Istanbul—legendary Constantinople—a masterpiece of the past two millennium, we walk timeless streets, eat at exotic restaurants, and visit splendid relics, bazaars, and roman ruins. A short flight to central Turkey takes us to Cappadoccia, home to some of the world's strangest scenery, surreal landscapes, and volcanic chimneys excavated for use as houses by early Christians. Travel through spectacular gorges, beautiful vineyards, elaborately carved and frescoed rock churches, and entire underground cities. Fly back to Istanbul and drive to the magnificent city of Ephesus, once the commercial center of the ancient world and a pilgrimage destination today. Our trip ends at a boutique beach hotel on the Bodrum Peninsula, the Turkish Aegean Sea, sailing, relaxing, and exploring. Date and Price TBA ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here and we will send you “earlybird” details as soon as they’re available. Please make sure you give us your name and email address.
13. October 1 – 11, 2011
COSTA RICA AND NICARAGUA
You will not find this adventure anywhere else. It’s an AdventureWomen exclusive, designed JUST FOR US! In Costa Rica we whitewater raft the Pacuare River and stay in the award-winning Pacuare Lodge, zip-line over the rainforest on an “Aerial Canopy Tour,” plus hike on the Arenal Volcano and then relax our bodies and souls in the hot springs at a luxurious resort at the foot of the volcano.
Next we travel back in time to El Castillo, Nicaragua, explore the San Juan del Norte region, visiting historic Greytown with Rama Indian guides, kayak, hike, and stay at a jungle lodge in the biggest expanse of rain forest north of the Amazon basin. The adrenalin flows with each new adventure. Traveling north along the Mosquito Coast (or Miskito Coast) by boat will make you feel like you are staring in a National Geographic exploration film. We fly to Big Corn Island and its pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of the Caribbean, explore a 400 year old sunken Spanish Galleon at Big Corn Island reefs, then fly to the oldest colonial city of the Americas, Granada Nicaragua. Don’t be left out of this amazing adventure. Space is limited! Price $3,995 from SanJose, Costa Rica ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here and we will send you “earlybird” details as soon as they’re available. Please make sure you give us your name and email address.
14. September 30 - October 15, 2011
DISCOVER AUSTRALIA
One of the world’s most unique and intriguing destinations, Australia’s range and diversity of experiences are boundless. For this AdventureWomen custom-designed vacation, we have chosen 4 diverse regions that represent the cultural and natural landscapes of Australia.
Tasmania—part of Australia and the world’s smallest continent—it’s like no other place in the world. Nearly one third of the island is dedicated wilderness: mountains with hanging lakes, wild rivers and deep gorges, button grass tussock plains and jagged peaks carved by glacial forces, and spectacular beaches and harbors. It is also one of the last great temperate rainforests related to Southern Chile and fossilized remnants in Antarctica— a precious heritage area. We explore the many features of this wilderness on hikes, by sea kayak, luxury cruiser, and zip line. Then fly to Cairns and the magical Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling, sunning, and discovering the great diversity of marine life on the reef and the beach. Next, we explore the World Heritage ‘Wet Tropics’ Daintree Rainforest of Far North Queensland and the amazing landscapes of the Cape Tribulation wilderness area, where the rainforest Aboriginal peoples appropriately named this place “healing of the spirit.” Last, we can't miss the stunning cosmopolitan melting pot of Sydney, where for two centuries settlers came from all parts of the globe. Today, the town of Sydney is able to charm all travelers, even those who prefer the wilderness. The heart of the city's downtown and classic residential precincts are built around a vast meandering harbor, alive with old boats and new yachts, spectacular architecture, and sea planes ready to whisk you away to a secluded hideaway or waterfront restaurant in the bush. We sail the harbor, sightsee in the city, and celebrate the end of our amazing time together at the top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge—on a guided climb—an achievement that you will remember forever. Price TBA. All inclusive from USA to Tasmania, 2 internal flights, and from Sydney to the USA ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here and we will send you “earlybird” details as soon as they’re available. Please make sure you give us your name and email address.
15. October 16 - 27, 2011
EXPLORE PATAGONIA
Come with us to explore classic Patagonia—the southernmost portions of Argentina and Chile—South America’s unspoiled last frontier. Travel to the breathtaking mountain environs of Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina and Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, both showcases of Patagonia’s sumptuous wilderness. Visit and hike in El Chalten, Mount Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and the Perito Moreno Glacier at Calafate in Argentina. View glaciers that have been forgotten by the last ice age. In Chile’s Torres del Paine, view soaring pink and white granite towers of the Andes, sparkling lakes, and golden grasslands sprawled beneath the big sky. Hike, cruise, glacier walk, observe wildlife, horseback ride, bicycle, and design some of your own excursions along the way. Stay in superb accommodations and the best hotels in town, eat delicious and innovative food, and be inspired by the beauty of this vast wilderness.
We’ll also discover the culture and food of elegant Buenos Aires, Argentina and cosmopolitan Santiago, Chile, fascinating gateway cities for our arrival and departure. Be serenaded by a Bandoneon as we stroll through an intriguing labyrinth of tunnels in Buenos Aires, and celebrate with tapas and cocktails at our beautiful hotel. Just outside Santiago, be a winemaker for a day by creating your own wine assemblage, while a vineyard jury selects who prepares the best blend. This is a true hands-on, unforgettable, and highly original experience.
Price $7,995 all inclusive (land and air) from USA to Buenos Aires, 2 internal flights, and from Santiago to the USA ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here for more details.
16. October 24 – November 8, 2011
NEPAL ANNAPURNA LODGE TREK IN THE HIMALAYAS
Back by popular demand! Experience exotic splendor in Nepal’s Himalayas on a low altitude lodge trek in the incredibly spectacular Annapurna foothills. Stay in comfortable private lodges with solar hot water showers! Then switch to rafts for a relaxing two-day trip on the Seti River, followed by a safari on elephant-back in Chitwan National Park to find rhinoceros and the elusive tiger. This Nepal trekking adventure is a unique combination of hiking, cultural interaction, rafting, and getting to know Nepal’s southern Terai country. You can have it all on this 16 day odyssey on foot through the highlights of this fascinating destination in Asia! All this in one, exciting trip! Price $4,595. All inclusive from Kathmandu ($800 deposit) Moderate/ 2 days High Energy.
> Click here and we will send you “earlybird” details as soon as they’re available. Please make sure you give us your name and email address.
17. October – November, 2011
HALLOWEEN SEA KAYAKING IN BAJA AND MEXICAN COOKING CLASS
Baja’s Sea of Cortez is the perfect warm water sea kayak escape from pre-holiday mania. Great guides and a comfortable safari-style beach camp, with a special Mexican cooking class to celebrate our last night together. Date and Price TBA. All-inclusive land and air from Los Angeles ($800 deposit) Moderate.
> Click here and we will send you “earlybird” details as soon as they’re available. Please make sure you give us your name and email address.
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