2013 Tanzania Park Fees Increase

Posted on August 21, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

This past July, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) released a communique outlining a range of new park fees that will take effect starting on July 1, 2013. The increases affect a wide-range of segments within Tanzania’s tourism industry including conservation fees, tour operator vehicles, air transfers, and walking and camping permits. For anyone interested, the changes are highlighted in this TANAPA PDF document:

What the Tanzania park fee increases mean for our travelers at Adventures Within Reach depends on the nature of your trip. For Kilimanjaro treks, 2-person private trek prices will increase by just $50 per person on the 6-day Machame route; those trekkers on an 8-day Lemosho trek will be facing a larger price increase of $150 per person on a private 2-person trek.  Kilimanjaro hikers looking to climb the mountain via the Lemosho route in 2013 will benefit if they consider moving plans up to before July 1. Travelers with flexibility are encouraged to trek by June to avoid these price increases.

Similarly, safari rates will go up slightly beginning on July 1, 2013 . For example, our private 5-day northern Tanzania safari rates will increase by $75 per person, while the 5-day scheduled group safari will rise by $60 per person. Value-minded travelers may consider this significant enough to consider booking their safari for dates before July 1.

Travelers considering our great value 5-day group safari will save money if they reserve a Tanzania safari by September 30, 2012. If you make your deposit before October for  any of our 2013 scheduled 5-day safaris, we will honor the 2012 rate. It is an exceptional value at only $1495 per person for a small group safari. The safari includes 3 nights in wonderful mid-range properties like the fantastic Halisi Tented Camp. Please contact us if you have any questions or if you would to like to explore your Tanzania hiking and safari options in greater detail.

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Machu Picchu Charity Trek With MAD

Posted on August 16, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

In September 2013, Make A Difference (MAD) will host a charity trek to Machu Picchu in Peru. This Inca Trail trek goes through stunning landscapes in the Peruvian Andes along stone paths created over 500 year ago! Adventures Within Reach is delighted to have been chosen to organize this great adventure for an even greater cause!

MAD is a non-profit organization helping orphaned children through education and economic development at orphanages and schools. They  successfully run education and volunteer programs in Tanzania and India. Since its inception in 2008, MAD has developed a unique model of care, which is enabling vulnerable children in developing nations get the chance to not only rise out of poverty, but also become leaders within their nations.

The Inca Trail trek is a wonderful hiking challenge. Hikers also experience the wonderful ruins that culminate with a visit to Machu Picchu, certainly one of the most magical ancient sites on the planet. In addition to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, travelers visit the colonial city of Cusco and the Scared Valley. The cost for the trek and tour is $1,250 USD, with the hope that each participant will raise an additional $1000 USD for MAD’s wonderful programs. To learn about this trek and fundraising effort visit MAD’s website:

This Peruvian adventure is scheduled for September 1-8, 2013. This is an excellent opportunity to help MAD and to experience an awesome trek! Options are available to extend your visit. You may contact AWR or MAD directly.

Machu Picchu charity climb

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Facts about Kilimanjaro Climb Costs: Choosing Your Kilimanjaro Tour Company

Posted on August 16, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

Recently, while browsing through the impassioned website of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), of which Adventures Within Reach is a proud partner, I recalled a recent exchange with a traveler about the cost of our Kilimanjaro treks and why they are slightly higher than a budget Kilimanjaro tour operator. While we are far from the most expensive Kilimanjaro outfitter (some tour companies charge in excess of $4000 per person), we are also not the cheapest tour operator on Kilimanjaro.  Our 2-person 6-day Marangu route climbs, for example, are priced at US$1620 per person. What is vital to know is that our rates allow us to pay our mountain staff a fair wage and provide high-quality, reliable equipment for our clients and staff alike.

It is an unfortunate fact that many budget Kilimanjaro companies do not take fair salary and proper working conditions for their mountain crews into consideration. Budget operators are often accused of not paying their porters, or paying them very little. Such an operation leaves guides and porters to work solely for tips, which is unfair to staff and an unsavory experience for the traveler. In addition, while a party of 4 travelers on one of our treks will have a crew of about 16, travelers on budget treks using “street” companies will probably get a crew of closer to 11, which means the crew is overworked and overloaded. In this example, the porters working for a budget trekking company might carry more than the Park Service’s maximum of 25 kg per person. As a result, the crews are grossly underpaid and severely overworked as they haul gear up the steep slopes of Kilimanjaro.

If they are not being paid a fair wage, then the travelers will be expected to tip more. Then the client, in turn, will be pestered and pressured for tips. Furthermore, poor paying companies attract poorly qualified guides. In our experience, we have found that a good guide can make or break your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to climb Kilimanjaro. Choosing a reputable company that partners with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) increases the overall quality of your trek, making it more enjoyable and safer for everyone involved.

When asking “why climb Kilimanjaro,” we encourage you to consider the welfare of the workers that support your efforts to reach the top of the mountain. You will have the best chance to reach the top, enjoy the experience, and contribute to the local Tanzania economy by supporting sustainable and responsible tourism.

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Whale Season in Peninsula Valdes, Argentina

Posted on July 23, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach
Southern Right Whales cresting just off the coast!

The whales are back! The Southern Right Whales just arrived to the coast of the Peninsula Valdes in Argentina, as they do every year to give birth and mate. Now through November is the ideal time to visit.

Campsites are normally in places were you can observe the Right whales from the shore

We can arrange for active and easy wildlife tours on the Peninsula, but what we love the most are the amazing kayak trips! Imagine camping out on a pristine beach with whales just off shore… on a kayak expedition you and your group of no more than 8 people will have this area practically to yourselves! You’ll also kayak in close proximity to whales and sea lions.

Sofia and Pablo

We are proud to partner with amazing local guides, Sofia Benegas and Pablo Passera! Whether you are interested in one day of kayaking, the 7-day Peninsula Valdes trip or their incredible 15-Day Kayak Adventure from Bariloche to the Peninsula Valdes, Sofia and Pablo will give you an unforgettable experience! They love their region and are excellent kayak guides, offering a great camping experience, top equipment, and the assurance of quality with top certifications including Wilderness First Responder medical training. In addition their trips are eco-friendly, a natural result of their passion for their wonderful region.

Here are the dates for the 7-day Peninsula Valdes Sea Kayak trip, with all departures guaranteed with at least 2 participants:

2012 Departures (whale season): Aug. 22 to Aug. 28 / Sept. 03 to Sept. 09 / Sept. 17 to Sept. 23 / Oct. 10 to Oct. 16 / Oct. 24 to Oct. 30 / Nov. 07 to Nov. 13 / Nov. 21 to Nov. 27

A typical paddling experience… AWR clients on a trip in 2011!

This trip is a wilderness adventure for recreational sea kayakers, ideal for experienced kayakers but also fine for beginners with a sense of adventure and comfort on open water. The itinerary features days on pristine waters and nights under the Southern Cross. As you paddle, huge mammals rise out in the Gulf of San Jose and playful seals bark and slide into the water. Whether focusing the day on bird watching, visiting archeological sites along the coast, enjoying spectacular sunsets or listening to the sounds of the Southern Right Whale, kayaking at Peninsula Valdes is all about fun and adventure.

To view all the options for Peninsula Valdes trips on our website, click here.

Or contact us to learn about the different dates and trip options around the Peninsula Valdes.

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Galapagos Specials!

Posted on July 19, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

Our Galapagos Island experts are always keeping track of great specials to these enchanting islands! Below are some superb specials, ideal for travelers with flexible travel dates.

The Athala Luxury Catamaran

Eclipse/ Athala Luxury Boats
These are our favorite luxury boats, offering the intimate experience of the 16 passenger Athala and the more spacious luxury experience aboard the 48 passenger Eclipse. Their specials include:

  • SAVE UP TO $960 for 7 night cruises and $820 for 5 night cruises on board the Eclipse! Dates JULY 28-AUGUST 04, AUGUST 11-18, OCTOBER 13-20, NOVEMBER 3-10, NOVEMBER 10-17     NOVEMBER 24-DEC 1, DECEMBER 8-15 , DECEMBER 15-22
  • SAVE UP TO $740 for 7 night cruises and $630 for 5 night cruises on board the Athala! Dates: JULY 28-AUGUST 04, AUGUST 11-18, AUGUST 25-SEPT 01, SEPTEMBER 01-08, SEPTEMBER 08-15, SEPTEMBER 15-22, SEPTEMBER 22-29, OCTOBER 27-NOV 3, DECEMBER 1-8, DECEMBER 8-15, DECEMBER 15-22  
  • Limited spaces available. Above discounts are per person and apply according to the selected cabin category on board the M.V. Eclipse and to any double cabin on board the M.C. Athala II. Not included: International flights and items of a personal nature, domestic flights from the continental Ecuador to Galapagos, entrance fees, fuel surcharge, alcoholic beverages and gratuities. Other arrangements and services not indicated above may be added at an additional charge.

The First-Class Coral II

The Legend or Coral I & II
These are some of our favorite boats and one of the best values for high quality in the Galapagos, offering the 100 passenger Legend and the 20 and 36 passenger Coral boats. They offer several excellent special promotions including:

  • Free Quito Hotels and free Quito-Galapagos flights for junior and suite cabins – a savings of $600 per person! GALAPAGOS LEGEND DATES, departing Mondays and Thursdays: August 27, September 06, September 10, Octobter 04, December 10, & December 13 / CORAL I & II DATES, departing Sundays & Wednesdays: September 09 & December 16.
  • In standard plus cabins you can choose between a free Ecuador highlands 2-day tour to Otavalo, a free cabin upgrade and 10% off your cruise price. GALAPAGOS LEGEND DATES, departing Mondays and Thursdays: July 30, August 20, August 30, September 13, November 15 & December 03 / CORAL I & II DATES, departing Sundays & Wednesdays: September 02, September 16, October 28, December 05, December 09, & December 12.

The Mid-Range Galaven

The Galaven
This 20 passenger boat is one of the best mid-range boats in the Galapagos and they offer amazing discounts. On select dates, they offer $500 off per person and 2-for-1 specials. The 2-for-1 specials are one of the best deals in the Galapagos!

  • $500 OFF: 4-day cruises: July 31-August 3, August 14-17, December 18-21 (only $1045 per person!) / 5-day cruises: December 7-11 (only $1645 per person!) / 8-day cruises: July 31-August 7, August 7-14, August 21-28, December 11-18 (only $2495 per person!) /
  • 2-for-1: None available at this time, but contact us to learn about future 2-for-1 special dates.

The First-Class Eric

Eric, Flamingo & Letty
These 16 passenger boats only offer 8-day cruises of the highest standard. They are offering 10% off many dates through December for any cruise booked by August 31. Contact us for a list of departures.

The Agressor II, A Live-Aboard Dive Boat

Aggressor I & II
The Aggressor live-aboard dive boats offer diving-only cruises to the northern islands. For bookings made by the end of July you save $1000! Cruises start at $5195 on a cabin sharing basis, so cruises will be only $4195 per person, all diving included. Act fast for this special offer on cruises through October, 2012.

Contact us today to plan your Galapagos vacation! Also consider adding a mainland Ecuador tour to a hacienda on the flanks of the Cotopaxi volcano, to the Amazon or elsewhere! We can also combine the Galapagos with Peru and Machu Picchu for travelers with at least 2 weeks travel time.

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5-day Scheduled Group Safaris

Posted on July 17, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

Zebra and Wildebeest in the Serengeti

Not long ago, we launched one of the most exciting trips in our company’s history: a high value, low cost, small group Tanzania safari with fixed departures that is ideal for single travelers and small groups.

This budget Tanzania safari features 3 nights in unique, comfortable mid-range Tanzania safari camps along with one night in a budget lodge near the Ngorongoro Crater, with the option to upgrade at nominal cost to a mid-range lodge on the Crater rim. We tailor the safari itinerary to coincide with peak wildlife movements.  From December through March, we visit beautiful Lake Manyara while the luxury mobile camp, Serengeti Halisi Camp, will be located in the Ndutu area to be close to the Serengeti migration’s biggest herds. From June to October, we visit Tarangire National Park to take in the amazing elephant migration – East Africa’s largest – while the Serengeti Halisi Camp will be situated in a more central area of the Serengeti to more freely roam the grasslands in search of Africa’s top predator viewing.

One of our favorite features is the fine sampling of distinctively African safari accommodations, with travelers experiencing a luxury mobile camp, a permanent tented luxury camp, and a typical African safari lodge.  The properties are located in great locations to see the game, and since we only offer departures during the very best times, excellent wildlife opportunities abound. Given the small group sizes, with no more than 7 travelers in the group, you are also assured of excellent photography chances and personalized service from your experienced English-speaking guide.

Comfortable Lodging in the Bush at the Serengeti Halisi Camp

Our 2 nights we spend in Halisi Camp, in particular, will truly stand out. The Serengeti (Swahili for “endless grasslands”) is a must-see for any traveler on safari. If you go in the calving months, January and February, you can see huge herds that stretch over the horizon at times. In the summer months, given the Serengeti’s vastness, it never seems crowded with tourists, unlike some other parks in Africa.  No matter when you go, you can expect a wonderful experience, with nothing between you and nature other than the canvass walls of the tent, allowing all the best sounds of the night to easily enter through, adding to the overall experience. The high class of personalized staff service, private facilities, full beds, the daily campfires, the starry nights… it all sums up the world-class travel experience of what it truly means to be on safari.

We still have space on a number of departures from August to October, along with space through the new 2013 season, which starts in December. Dates are all set and available either on line or by contacting us. Rates in 2013 will still be unbelievably low, at just US$1595 per person (with a single supplement available upon request of $150). For travelers wanting a more expansive holiday in Tanzania, we can help arrange safaris in more remote Southern Tanzania, Kilimanjaro climbs, Zanzibar extensions, Rwanda gorilla safaris ranging from 3 to 5 days, and safari add-ons to visit more wildlife areas or scenic spots, such as Lake Natron, or cultural areas, like Lake Eyasi. Feel free to contact us for more information and availability!

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Discovering India’s Amazing and Exotic Golden Triangle

Posted on June 26, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

Fort Agra in India's Golden Triangle

Before a traveler ventures off to exotic India, I like asking the question: “So, what do you think you’ll like the most on your trip?” Then upon return, asking the same question and finding out that the two answers are as wildly apart as the extremes within India itself.  More than other destinations, our idea of India compels us to test it out, to find out for ourselves, to discover the real India, or at least, how we really feel about it. What you may learn about the people, the place, and yourself may surprise you!

I’ve traveled through India twice. We based our Golden Triangle tour (Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra) partly on my own experiences and on highlights that most Western travelers like to focus on (India’s history and major sites in the central region) when visiting on a short trip.  The Golden Triangle tour is short enough to easily add on to any Nepal or Bhutan itinerary and just long enough to do by itself if all you have is a week for vacation, making it a perfect extension or a stand alone trip, especially if you can add an extra day in Rajasthan or 2 nights in Varanasi.

The Taj Mahal Entrance Gate

The goal of our tour is tri-fold:

  1. to introduce you to the wondrous diversity of a small corner of India;
  2. to share with you the amazing spectacle of the Taj Mahal at sunrise and other “essential” experiences for the savvy international traveler;
  3. to allow for a truly fresh, first-hand and enlightening perspective of some of India’s grandest moments and empires. Your private English-speaking guides join you at every site to share their fascinating knowledge of pivotal moments within a site’s history, while reciting the greater back story from which each event had its origin.

You stay in your choice of accommodations, from 3-star to 5-star hotels, however everyone gets to be a King or Queen for a day with the final night’s stay being at the evocative 15th century Neemrana Fort-Palace. India is a top-10 travel destination for all the right reasons – it is safe, stable, affordable, and rich with striking experiences waiting to be had. We hope you agree and can find the time to join us for what will be one of the most unforgettable trips of your life!

– Dan Crandall, AWR Travel Specialist

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Treks and Cultural Tours in India!

Posted on June 19, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

The Taj Mahal in India's Golden Triangle

We are pleased to announce amazing trekking itineraries and cultural tours in northern India! During a trip to India, AWR’s Dan Crandall met Manoj Sharma, who has been organizing treks in remote areas of the Indian Himalaya for over twenty years – he has personally led more than 200 trips in India, Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet!

 

Manoj out in the mountains

Manoj loves hidden cultures in remote destinations, and he is able to share this passion with us through the amazing trips we offer.

While Himalayan peaks present some of the most challenging climbs, it is the villages and religious temples and monasteries near the mountains which present some great interesting hikes.

From Ladakh to Garwhal, Sikkim to Arunachal Pradesh and the newly opened valleys of Merak and Sakten (Manoj was the first to lead a trek there) in Bhutan, our trips showcase what is possible for climbers as well as hikers and include exposure to the local cultures of these regions. We are focusing our efforts on two amazing treks: the Ladakh region with an ascent of Stok Kangri (20,075 feet) and a trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp in Sikkim.

Trekking in the Ladakh to Stok Kangri

The Ladakh is a land that is arguably more ‘Tibet’ than Tibet itself; a land where ancient Tibetan traditions and vital religious shrines have been carefully protected and honored. Our signature trek takes you to several remote and picturesque villages to the high Nimaling Plain below the magnificent peak of Kang Yatze. Finally you’ll have a chance to summit Stok Kangri at 20,075 feet above sea level.

Sikkim and Kanchenjunga

Kanchenjunga is the world’s third highest mountain, a sacred mountain in Sikkim easily seen from Darjeeling. While not nearly as well-known as Everest or K2, it is just as worthy for spectacular beauty and great hiking and it doesn’t have the crowds of the more popular (but wonderful!) Everest Base Camp Trek. Similar to the trek in the Ladakh, you’ll experience amazing mountain scenery and local culture.

We also offer tours in India’s Golden Triangle. Visits to forts and to the Taj Mahal introduce you to some of India’s most treasured sites. A Golden Triangle tour is a perfect addition to a trek in India or to a trip in Nepal or Bhutan.

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The Glacier Express Train: St. Mortiz to Zermatt

Posted on June 6, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

The Glacier Express is Switzerland’s classic Alpine Train Tour!

The Glacier Express - Europe's Most Scenic Railway!

After a trek in the Alps many travelers wish to extend their journey to take in more of the Alps’ amazing scenery.

We highly recommend the Glacier Express that runs from St. Moritz to Zermatt. You’ll discover Eastern and Central Switzerland in comfort and style.

While a standard itinerary includes 1 night in St. Moritz and 1 night in Zermatt, we recommend an extra night in Zermatt so you can enjoy a leisurely hike beneath the Matterhorn!

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arrival in St. Moritz by train 2nd class (up to 3 transfers) from the Swiss border or any Swiss airport. Overnight in St. Moritz.
DAY 2: Today you board the Glacier Express which is one of the greatest train journeys in the world. You travel from St.Moritz to Zermatt. A 71⁄2 hour railway journey across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels and across the Oberalp Pass at 2’033 metres in altitude. Travel in comfort through the unspoilt natural beauty of a landscape rich in ancient, fragrant mountain forests, peaceful Alpine meadows,
rushing mountain streams and mountain valleys, soaked in tradition and centuries- old culture. Optional lunch – if required, please indicate on the booking request. Overnight in Zermatt.
DAY 3: Return to Swiss border or airport or continue your stay in Switzerland at your own request.

PRICE: from $525/person*
* For an 3-day itinerary including 2 hotel nights and train travel to and from the start of the Glacier Express! Pricing is based upon the low season rate in 3-star hotels: 499 CHF (Swiss Francs). We can also arrange for 4-star hotels.

Ask us about other train and hotel packages!

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New Trips to Iceland!

Posted on May 29, 2012 by Adventures Within Reach

Iceland Trekking Adventure

Adventures Within Reach is pleased to announce new trips to Iceland!

The country boasts some of the world’s best scenery and wonderful hiking among mountains, volcanoes, glaciers and the sea coast. In addition Iceland is easy to reach from both Europe and the United States. For American and Canadian travelers new direct non-stops with Iceland Air from cities such as Denver make the country even easier to reach!

We are offering a variety of trekking and backpacking trips along with glacier walks. Trekking trips allow hikers to travel lightly and stay in huts or rural inns. Backpacking trips allow hikers to travel to more remote areas, but often require the carrying of more gear.

Iceland Glacier Trekking

Our basic itineraries are 8 days from arrival to departure, so perfect for a week of vacation! They include 2 nights in Reykjavik and a glacier walking tour. We can also arrange for other tours and extensions upon request, including winter and spring tours with skiing. Average group sizes are 6 to 16, with departures guaranteed with 6 participants.

We had the pleasure of hosting Arnar Olafson, a co-owner of our Icelandic partners, during a trip he made to Colorado. Tilden and Dan had a wonderful afternoon hiking with Arnar in our splendid Rocky Mountain National Park, and we are sure that you will have a wonderful time with Arnar and his colleagues on your adventure in Iceland!

Consider an adventure in Iceland and contact us today to help plan a trip!

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