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25 Days
Date: 16 Sep to 14 Oct 2019
At the crossroads of Asia and Eastern Europe, between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus is a unique travel destination. Few tourists visit this fascinating region, which includes Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, but those who do are struck by its beauty, culture and history. Guests on our small group tours will pass snow-capped mountains, glaciers and gorges; dine with local families and explore rock-hewn villages, mosques, UNESCO World Heritage-listed monasteries and churches.
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15 Days
Date: 14 Nov to 29 Nov 2020
There are so many reasons to visit this country – there is so much to see and do. Even though it is relatively small, it packs a lot of punch for the travellers. The indigenous and colonial history is fascinating. The food is fabulous and the scenery is spectacular. Plus, the abundance of wildlife is one of the draw cards for travellers and will take you by surprise. It’s no wonder that in 2013, Lonely Planet rated it the “hottest travel destination on the planet”, and they didn’t mean the weather!
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13 Days
Date: 1 to 14 November 2020
Ladakh, the land of high passes, is a region in the northernmost stretches of India with blurred boundaries of culture and traditions between neighbouring countries like Tibet and China. Ladakh’s tranquil, turquoise lakes, river rafting and trekking, and the numerous Buddhist monasteries, high altitude wildlife, make it among the most unique destinations in India. This itinerary takes you to the wilderness of Ulley and Chuu valley, excellent Ibex country. This area has only recently been developed for Snow Leopard tracking and has quickly gained a reputation not just for the high numbers of snow leopards but as one of the best areas to see Ibex, Urial, Wolf, Himalayan fox, Himalayan griffon vultures and golden eagles.
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26 Days
Date: 7 September – 4 October 2019
Central Asia or “The Stans” is a vast landlocked region of Asia, increasing in popularity amongst travellers who want to experience one of the world’s last great frontier lands. The Silk Road gave rise to unprecedented trade, but its true brilliance and unique place in human history were the results of the interchange of ideas, innovations and philosophies that occurred amongst the very different peoples that used it. Our tour encompasses many of these historic places along with many other “story-book” destinations.
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25 Days
Date: 11 May to 5 June 2020
At the crossroads of Asia and Eastern Europe, between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus is a unique travel destination. Few tourists visit this fascinating region, which includes Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, but those who do are struck by its beauty, culture and history. Guests on our small group tours will pass snow-capped mountains, glaciers and gorges; dine with local families and explore rock-hewn villages, mosques, UNESCO World Heritage-listed monasteries and churches.
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26 Days
Date: 25 May to 19 June 2020
The term ‘Silk Road’ was first coined by the German explorer Ferdinand von Richthofen in the late 1800s to describe the 7,000 km of desert caravans that carried trade between the Hidden Kingdom of China and the outside world. Our China Silk Road itinerary has been designed for those who wish to experience the glory of ancient China’s far western border region. We start our tour in Lanzhou, an important Yellow River crossing and a major Silk Road trading hub for merchants from Mongolia, Sichuan and Tibet. Chinese, Huns, Bactrians, Sogdians, Turkmen, Mongols, Uyghurs and Tajiks all played historic roles in this fascinating region.
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26 Days
Date: 15 January to 11 February 2020
With its fabulous 3,000-year history, diverse peoples, vibrant culture, varied wildlife and fauna, and magnificent scenery embracing every land-form from high mountain plateaus to parched deserts, Ethiopia is a unique destination without peer. Add to this one of the finest climates in Africa – “thirteen months of sunshine!” – and you have so many reasons to visit this incredible country. Interact with the ancient tribes of the Omo Valley, wind your way through cobblestoned streets in Harar, see the rock-hewn churches of the Lalibela. Ethiopia provides a serious cultural hit.
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26 Days
Date: 21 September to 17 October 2020
Three Mediterranean Islands to include on your European Tour – all very different– Malta, an independent nation, was once a British colony, Corsica is governed by France and Sardinia is part of Italy. They are a traveller’s dream because they are relatively small and easy to get around, have a reputation for wonderful food and wine and offer ancient history, medieval villages, stunning landscapes and a lifestyle second to none. Our three guides will show you the best of their islands plus some of the lesser-known parts. You may find it very hard to leave.
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22 Days
Date: 01 February to 23 February 2020
Our Mexico Guatemala Honduras tour starts in Mexico City and then moves south-east taking in the UNESCO heritage sites of Monte Alban, the greatest of the Zapotec cities, Teotihuacan, the most sacred of the Aztec sites and the Mayan sites of Palenque, Uxmal and Chichen Itza. We will savour some wonderful Mexican food and music, visit a mezcal distillery, travel by boat down the Sumidero canyon and end up in. the Yucatan Peninsula on the Caribbean coast before we fly on to Guatemala.
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20 Days
Date: October 2020
Ghana, Togo, Benin and Gabon are amongst the most developed nations of the West African region. They vary greatly in what’s offered for those interested in visiting lesser-travelled destinations. Mainly an agricultural region, interaction with many different tribes, amazing coastlines, colonial history, bustling cities, busy markets and unique wildlife is all on offer. One thing is certain, they are all very interesting in different ways and most certainly worth visiting.
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24 Days
Date: 1 to 27 May 2020
While there is much to see and do in Seoul, you need to leave the capital to understand Korea. Here you’ll find beautiful traditional villages, UNESCO temples and Buddha’s, countryside with hills full of native trees and rice paddies. The Taiwanese do not feel a connection to China but the Chinese government’s views differ. There are often tensions between the two, but politics aside, you must join us if you like mountains, lakes, peaceful walks in scenic forests and exploring quaint villages and towns.
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14 Days
Date: 23 June to 6 July 2020
Optional 16 Day Greenland expedition cruise
Iceland is often called the Land of Ice and Fire. Its spectacular natural landscapes showcase the ancient geothermal forces which have been at work for thousands of years. Iceland is known for its volcanoes, glaciers, fjords, mountains, waterfalls, and hot springs. The island’s interior is a cold and uninhabitable combination of sand, mountains, and lava fields. From humble Nordic origins, Iceland has become Europe’s leading eco-paradise, boasting the largest national park in the European Union – Vatnajökull where you’ll discover pristine streams full of salmon, trails through glaciers, five-gaited Icelandic horses running wild, and bubbling pools of mud and sulphur. Many things in Iceland remain exactly as the Vikings found them around 1,100 years ago, especially the raw and dramatic glacial fjords.
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21 Days
Date: 6 -28 April 2020
When we think of Brazil, we conjure images of happy, smiling faces, dancing and singing in the street, vibrant colours and a soccer ball on just about every street. Well, we can confirm, this is Brazil. Her best-known destination is Rio and Copacabana Beach with its beautiful bodies in skimpy swimming costumes. However, there is so much more to this diverse and culturally vibrant country. Brush up on your Portuguese and travel through a country with an amazing influence of cultures from local, indigenous peoples, slaves from Africa and Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese colonials.
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22 Days
Date: 21 September – 13 O October 2020
A land of seemingly endless sand dunes, colourful mosaics and bustling souks filled with the fragrant aroma of spices and oils, Morocco is many a traveller’s dream destination. Ride a camel to a luxury tented camp in the middle of the desert, watch the sunrise over the Sahara, see Sultan’s tombs and explore traditional villages, forts and ancient walled cities before channelling your inner Ingrid Bergman or Humphrey Bogart at Rick’s Café in Casablanca.
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22 Days
Date: 28th September – 20 October 2020
If history and Greek culture are of interest, these three larger Greek Islands are a must visit. Every direction you look will reveal another place if historical significance. In fact, much of the ancient world evolved around this region. Many great powers came, conquered and were replaced with other powers over thousands of years. Many UNESCO-listed remains are still visible today. Visit Crete, Cyprus & Rhodes for the history, but also for the food & wine, scenery, friendly locals and slow-paced lifestyle.
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20 Days
Date: 16 November to 7 December 2020
If it’s history, food and unique culture you’re after, these two destinations are a must-see. The Jewish State is a stand out success story with its high tech industry. A comparison of ancient Jerusalem with modern Tel Aviv may leave you scratching your head. Wadi Rum and Petra are Jordan’s two best-known attractions but Jordan has far more to offer. The people are amongst the friendliest you will meet. Join this tour certainly for the history, but also for the ancient and modern architecture, the natural beauty, the wonderful cuisine and vastly different cultures.
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20 Days
Date: March 2020 Dates TBA
These three counties – Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana – sit on the Atlantic coastline of South America between Venezuela and Brazil. They are all highly multicultural having fairly recent colonial pasts. With around 80% of the entire region forming part of the Amazon basin, each has a plethora of wildlife with a giant anteater, giant otters, jaguars, caimans plus hundreds of other reptile and bird species commonly spotted. The rarest species of all in this region, however, is the tourist!
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7 Days
Date: To be taken before or after a Blue Dot Travel small group tour
Blue Dot Travel’s Best of Oman tour, is a snap-shot and good introduction. It includes the capital Muscat, wadis, coastal and mountains regions and traditional style villages over six nights.
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5 Days
Date: Designed to be taken before or after a Blue Dot Travel small group tour
Ukraine is a country made up of fertile plains and natural resources making it the target of many invaders over the years. Most recently it was part of the Soviet Union and to this day has a strong Russian influence, even if both governments don’t see eye to eye. There are many interesting places for the traveller from Lvov’s UNESCO-listed old town to Kiev and the country’s Black Sea shores. Traveller’s come for the food, history and natural beauty.
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20 Days
Date: 4 July to 24 July 2020
Welcome to Mongolia – A land of nomadic horsemen and arid steppes that stretch from pristine glacial lakes to the massive Gobi. Even today Mongolian culture revolves around a nomadic heritage with the family ger at the centre of a tough and resilient people. Ulaanbaatar, the capital is an eclectic mix of Russian, Chinese and Tibetan influences with Tibetan Buddhist monasteries infused with Mongolian Shamanism. The Naadam festival is a true highlight where thousands flock to compete in the ancient sports of wrestling, archery and cross-country horse racing.
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24 Days
Date: 27 May to 21 June 2019
At the crossroads of Asia and Eastern Europe, between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus is a unique travel destination. Few tourists visit this fascinating region, which includes Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, but those who do are struck by its beauty, culture and history. Guests on our small group tours will pass snow-capped mountains, glaciers and gorges; dine with local families and explore rock-hewn villages, mosques, UNESCO World Heritage-listed monasteries and churches.
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23 Days
Date: 1 to 24 March 2020
Experience the Tigers of Central India. India is a study in contrasts; bustling cities that bear the legacies of once-glorious empires, a patchwork of farmlands and hamlets fringing lush forests, destinations steeped in history making their inexorable way towards modernity. A land that is more than history, diverse in geography, a land of peace and plenty that brought empires and colonies to its shores, a nation that throbs with the stories of the past paving the way to a bright future.
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14 DaysDate: To suit your group
Ever dreamt of taking the family on an African family safari? Chances are the answer is “Yes!” Blue Dot Travel has developed a comprehensive itinerary taking in the best these destinations have to offer, timed to coincide with our local April and September school holidays. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with wildlife, local culture, amazing scenery and diverse activities. Visit Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls (better known to the locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya, the smoke that thunders), the magnificent Chobe National Park in Botswana where you’ll stay in both luxury camps and a safari lodge, and Cape Town which is without a doubt, South Africa’s most beautiful and exciting city.
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15 DaysDate: To suit your group
David Attenborough referred to the island as “natures design laboratory”, because of the many unique creatures and vegetation, some of quite a primitive nature, which are found here. The terrain varies from tropical rainforest to desert, from high stony plateaus to lush green islands with many amazing geological and geographical formations throughout. Madagascar has a whole range of unique animals and plants, which have evolved here separated from the rest of the world. The most notable are the Lemurs of which around 120 species and sub species are described.
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24 DaysDate: To suit your group
The Republic of Argentina is a large country – the world’s 9th largest – with a population of around 40 million people, mainly of Spanish and Italian decent. The Spanish conquistadores arrived in the 16th century and virtually wiped out all of the indigenous people through violence, disease and disposition. Slaves from Africa were brought over in the 18th century mainly to work in the fields. The resulting culture is an eclectic mix of indigenous traditions, European influences and African rhythms including art, literature, dance and song.
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19 DaysDate: To suit your group
Uganda is a traveller’s dream because it has so much to offer in a relatively small place. If wildlife is your thing, Uganda offers the ultimate African experience because you’ll see both savannah and jungle species within a days drive. The gorillas are surely a highlight but certainly not the only reason to visit. The scenery is stunning, the safari style accommodation comfortable, there’s good food and wonderful locals. What’s not to love.
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14 DaysDate: To suit your group
There are so many reasons to visit this country –there is so much to see and do. Even though it is a relatively small it packs a lot of punch for the travellers. The indigenous and colonial history is fascinating. The food is fabulous. The scenery is spectacular. Plus, the abundance of wildlife one of the draw cards for travellers will take you by surprise. It’s no wonder that in 2013, Lonely Planet rated it the ”hottest travel destination on the planet”, and they didn’t mean the weather!
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21 DaysDate: To suit your group
When we think of Brazil, we conjure images of happy, smiling faces, dancing and singing in the street, vibrant colours and a soccer ball on just about every street. Well, we can confirm, this is Brazil. Her best-known destination is Rio and Copacabana Beach with its beautiful bodies in skimpy swimming costumes. However, there is so much more to this diverse and culturally vibrant country. Brush up on your Portuguese and travel through a country with an amazing influence of cultures from local, indigenous peoples, slaves from Africa and Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese colonials.
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22 DaysDate: To suit your group
If history and Greek culture are of interest, these three larger Greek Islands are a must visit. Every direction you look will reveal another place if historical significance. In fact, much of the ancient world evolved around this region. Many great powers came, conquered and were replaced with other powers over thousands of years. Many UNESCO-listed remains are still visible today. Visit Crete, Cyprus & Rhodes for the history, but also for the food & wine, scenery, friendly locals and slow-paced lifestyle.
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21 DaysDate: To suit your group
A land of seemingly endless sand dunes, colourful mosaics and bustling souks filled with the fragrant aroma of spices and oils, Morocco is many a traveller’s dream destination. Ride a camel to a luxury tented camp in the middle of the desert, watch the sunrise over the Sahara, see Sultan’s tombs and explore traditional villages, forts and ancient walled cities before channelling your inner Ingrid Bergman or Humphrey Bogart at Rick’s Café in Casablanca.
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20 DaysDate: To suit your group
Japan’s rugged peaks, rocky coastlines, gorges, lakes, waterfalls and dense forests are breath taking. The country’s population of about 125,000,000, live in an area roughly the size of Tasmania when you take in to account the land usable for cultivation. March is a wonderful time to visit. The delicate pink clouds of the cherry blossom transform the gardens throughout the country. The locals celebrate with a Hanami – like a picnic where they gather to appreciate the blossoms.
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15 Days
Date: 21 Dec 2019 to 5 Jan 2020
There are so many reasons to visit this country – there is so much to see and do. Even though it is relatively small, it packs a lot of punch for the travellers. The indigenous and colonial history is fascinating. The food is fabulous and the scenery is spectacular. Plus, the abundance of wildlife is one of the draw cards for travellers and will take you by surprise. It’s no wonder that in 2013, Lonely Planet rated it the “hottest travel destination on the planet”, and they didn’t mean the weather!
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24 DaysDate: To suit your group
Home to one of the world’s oldest and richest cultures, Iran has become one of the hottest emerging travel destinations on the planet in recent years. With a moderate government now in place, adventurers are increasingly being drawn to the exotic Middle Eastern country to discover its treasures. Meander through bustling bazaars, majestic palaces and mosques and see the ruins of UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples, tombs and other archaeological sites to rival those in Egypt.
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15 DaysDate: To suit your group
Kamchatka is one of Russia’s least explored, but most scenically spectacular regions. The peninsula is traversed by two active volcanic ranges with 20 or more volcanoes being amongst the world’s most volatile. Home to the largest volume of salmon on the planet, a vast array of wildlife including brown bears and pristine forests and lakes, Kamchatka is a wilderness like no other. Come and see this ultimate adventure destination before the world catches on!
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21 DaysDate: To suit your group
David Attenborough referred to the island as “natures design laboratory”, because of the many unique creatures and vegetation, some of quite a primitive nature, which are found here. The terrain varies from tropical rainforest to desert, from high stony plateaus to lush green islands with many amazing geological and geographical formations throughout. Madagascar has a whole range of unique animals and plants, which have evolved here separated from the rest of the world. The most notable are the Lemurs of which around 120 species and sub species are described.
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20 DaysDate: To suit your group
Portugal is a traveller’s dream come true. You’ll find fortified towns with cobblestoned streets, well preserved castles dating back to the medieval period, glorious beaches, food and wine to die for and magnificent coastal and inland scenery. It has no less than 15 UNESCO-listed cultural and natural sights!
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22 DaysDate: To suit your group
These three counties – Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana – sit on the Atlantic coastline of South America between Venezuela and Brazil. They are all highly multi cultural having fairly recent colonial pasts. With around 80% of the entire region forming part of the Amazon basin, each has a plethora of wildlife with giant anteater, giant otters, jaguars, caimans plus hundreds of other reptile and bird species commonly spotted!The rarest species of all in this region however, is the tourist!
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28 DaysDate: To suit your group
With its fabulous 3,000-year history, diverse peoples, vibrant culture, varied wildlife and fauna, and magnificent scenery embracing every land-form from high mountain plateaus to parched deserts, Ethiopia is a unique destination without peer. Add to this the one of the finest climates in Africa – “thirteen months of sunshine!” – and you have so many reasons to visit this incredible country. Interact with the ancient tribes of the Omo Valley, wind your way through cobbled stoned streets in Harar, see the rock-hewn churches of the Lalibela. Ethiopia provides a serious cultural hit.
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17 DaysDate: To suit your group
There are so many reasons to visit this country – there is so much to see and do. Even though it is a relatively small it packs a lot of punch for the travellers. The indigenous and colonial history is fascinating. The food is fabulous. The scenery is spectacular. Plus, the abundance of wildlife — one of the draw-cards for travellers — will take you by surprise. It’s no wonder that in 2013, Lonely Planet rated it the ”hottest travel destination on the planet”, and they didn’t mean the weather!
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20 DaysDate: To suit your group
If it’s history, food and unique culture you’re after, these two destinations are a must-see. The Jewish State is a stand out success story with its high tech industry. A comparison of ancient Jerusalem with modern Tel Aviv may leave you scratching your head. Wadi Rum and Petra are Jordan’s two best-known attractions but Jordan has far more to offer. The people are amongst the friendliest you will meet. Join this tour certainly for the history, but also for the ancient and modern architecture, the natural beauty, the wonderful cuisine and vastly different cultures.
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24 DaysDate: to suit your group
If you love food and wine, history and quaint villages, you cannot help but fall in love with Sicily – the Mediterranean’s largest island. Although governed by Italy, the locals are definitely Sicilian. They are passionate, talkative and laid back all at the same time. And don’t get in the way of a local and a TV screen – they are football-mad! The Aeolian Islands are also truly representative of the Mediterranean lifestyle – a slow pace of life, food & wine, sunshine and fishing villages – what is not to love.
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20 DaysDate: To suit your group
With scenery to rival Switzerland, a growing reputation for cheese and wine and a surprising number of UNESCO World Heritage sites, it’s little wonder adventurous travellers are increasingly turning to Eastern Europe. Dine in centuries-old restaurants, wander along cobblestone streets and explore medieval castles – including the one said to have inspired the gothic horror novel Dracula in Transylvania – on our small group tours to Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova without the crowds, or high cost, of Western Europe.
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20 DaysDate: To suit your group
Welcome to Mongolia – A land of nomadic horsemen and arid steppes that stretch from pristine glacial lakes to the massive Gobi. Even today Mongolian culture revolves around a nomadic heritage with the family ger at the centre of a tough and resilient people. Ulaanbaatar, the capital is an eclectic mix of Russian, Chinese and Tibetan influences with Tibetan Buddhist monasteries infused with Mongolian Shamanism. The Naadam festival is a true highlight where thousands flock to compete in the ancient sports of wrestling, archery and cross-country horse racing.
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24 DaysDate: To suit your group
At the crossroads of Asia and Eastern Europe, between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus is a unique travel destination. Few tourists visit this fascinating region, which includes Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, but those who do are struck by its beauty, culture and history. Guests on our Caucasus private tour will pass snow-capped mountains, glaciers and gorges; dine with local families and explore rock-hewn villages, mosques, UNESCO World Heritage-listed monasteries and churches.
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25 DaysDate: To suit your group
Our multi-faceted, small-group tour of Southern Africa, takes in the very best the region has to offer. You’ll experience an amazing variety of landscapes, wildlife, ancient and colonial history, plus food and culture across four countries. You’ll see the stunning Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Chobe NP and The Okavango Delta in Botswana plus, Etosha, Sossosvlei and the Fish River canyon in Namibia. Then there’s time for a little luxury in Cape Town, South Africa’s most beautiful city.
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22 DaysDate: To suit your group
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania – commonly referred to at The Baltics. Add near-by Poland and the region boast some of the best preserved medieval Old Towns anywhere in Europe. From the Hanseatic Tallinn to the Jugendstil Riga to the baroque Vilnius. Pixie hat-like red roofs top most houses. Massive soaring spires of castles and cathedrals, and domed cupolas of churches dominate the city skylines. A fairy tale come true.
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19 DaysDate: To suit your group
There are so many reasons to visit this country –there is so much to see and do. Even though it is a relatively small it packs a lot of punch for the travellers. The indigenous and colonial history is fascinating. The food is fabulous. The scenery is spectacular. Plus, the abundance of wildlife one of the draw cards for travellers will take you by surprise. It’s no wonder that in 2013, Lonely Planet rated it the ”hottest travel destination on the planet”, and they didn’t mean the weather!
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15 Days
Date: 1st July -16 July 2019
Tour Alaska – the biggest state of the US is a nature lover’s utopia. Ice-capped mountains, forests full of wildlife plus lakes and rivers full of fish. What’s not to love? You are almost guaranteed of seeing the bears. Caribou, moose and bison are also fairly common. There are hundreds of bird species to be found, including the American bald eagle. Orca’s and various species of whales can also be spotted off the coast. If light trekking, log cabins and wilderness is your thing, this trip is for you.
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11 DaysDate: To suit you
One of the key reasons to visit Japan as a family is its eclectic mix of past, present and future, all of which provide something of interest for all ages and makes for lots of things to see and do. Blue Dot Travel has carefully crafted this itinerary with adults and kids in mind for a wonderful cultural experience. You won’t see it all but you will get the right mix, moving well beyond the greatest hits to some of the hidden gems that give a real taste of Japan’s diversity, at a pace that will keep the kids engaged.
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4 DaysStart Date: Designed to be taken before or after a Blue Dot Travel small group tour
South Korea is not on the list for many travellers however, it should be. Much of the country was ruled by the Joseon dynasty which lasted for over 500 years until the late 1800’s. There’s history all around you – and great food. This extension tour is a great add on if you are travelling through Seoul.
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14 DaysDate: To suit you
India offers a stunning variety of experiences in its expanse of about 3.3 million square kms. From the chilly peaks of the Himalayas to the hot green Ganges’ plains; from the majestic Rajasthan deserts to massive mangrove forests and the famous sea and sand and spices of Goa. Southern India has something for all the family – peaceful backwaters and spice plantations, incredible wildlife in expansive parks, ancient temples, colourful bazaars and stunning scenery. And as with all our family tours, good quality hotels await at the end of each day in excellent locations with great service and oodles of delicious food. As always, several “must-do” excursions are included but many other options are also offered, leaving it to you and the family to do as much or as little as you choose.
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21 DaysDate: To suit your group
The Balkans is a sprawling mountain peninsula comprising of, mainly, the former Yugoslavia. While many of the countries have been synonymous with political turmoil in modern history (Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in Sarajevo in 1914, sparking the First World War), the current reality is a collection of cultures now relishing their own identities, and enjoying a resurgence of interaction with the outside world. Our tour includes seven countries Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Slovenia and Serbia.
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26 Days
Date: 27 May to 21 June 2019
The term ‘Silk Road’ was first coined by the German explorer Ferdinand von Richthofen in the late 1800s to describe the 7,000 km of desert caravans that carried trade between the Hidden Kingdom of China and the outside world. Our China Silk Road itinerary has been designed for those who wish to experience the glory of ancient China’s far western border region. We start our tour in Lanzhou, an important Yellow River crossing and a major Silk Road trading hub for merchants from Mongolia, Sichuan and Tibet. Chinese, Huns, Bactrians, Sogdians, Turkmen, Mongols, Uyghurs and Tajiks all played historic roles in this fascinating region.
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21 Days
Date: November 2019
Nagaland is one of the least explored states of India. At the Hornbill Festival, sixteen local tribes converge to showcase their culture and traditions. The colours, the sounds, the music and dance, and the region’s natural beauty, will blow your mind. The region of Orissa, is one of the most beautiful states in India to explore. It has a distinctive cultural heritage and is known for its architectural marvels and its unique art. You may not see another western traveller for days on end!
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24 Days
Date: 01 October to 26 October 2019
Home to one of the world’s oldest and richest cultures, Iran has become one of the hottest emerging travel destinations on the planet in recent years. With a moderate government now in place, adventurers are increasingly being drawn to the exotic Middle Eastern country to discover its treasures. Meander through bustling bazaars, majestic palaces and mosques and see the ruins of UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples, tombs and other archaeological sites to rival those in Egypt.
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20 Days
Date: 24 September to 15 October 2019
Japan’s rugged peaks, rocky coastlines, gorges, lakes, waterfalls and dense forests are breath taking. The country’s population of about 125,000,000 live in an area roughly the size of Tasmania when you take in to account the land usable for cultivation. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Japan. The changing colours of the leaves throughout the landscape can be mesmerising.
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26 Days
Date: 16 September to 12 October 2019
Three Mediterranean Islands to include on your European Tour – all very different– Malta, an independent nation, was once a British colony, Corsica is governed by France and Sardinia is part of Italy. They are a traveller’s dream because they are relatively small and easy to get around, have a reputation for wonderful food and wine and offer ancient history, medieval villages, stunning landscapes and a lifestyle second to none. Our three guides will show you the best of their islands plus some of the lesser-known parts. You may find it very hard to leave.
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15 Days
Date: 12 to 27 August 2019
Kamchatka is one of Russia’s least explored, but most scenically spectacular regions. The peninsula is traversed by two active volcanic ranges with 20 or more volcanoes being amongst the world’s most volatile. Home to the largest volume of salmon on the planet, a vast array of wildlife including brown bears and pristine forests and lakes, Kamchatka is a wilderness like no other. Come and see this ultimate adventure destination before the world catches on!
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20 Days
Date: 6 to 26 July 2019
NEW TOUR DATES: 25 June to 15 July 2019
Welcome to Mongolia – A land of nomadic horsemen and arid steppes that stretch from pristine glacial lakes to the massive Gobi. Even today Mongolian culture revolves around a nomadic heritage with the family ger at the centre of a tough and resilient people. Ulaanbaatar, the capital is an eclectic mix of Russian, Chinese and Tibetan influences with Tibetan Buddhist monasteries infused with Mongolian Shamanism.The Naadam festival is a true highlight where thousands flock to compete in the ancient sports of wrestling, archery and cross-country horse racing.
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25 Days
Date: 14 May to 8 June 2019
Our multi-faceted, small-group tour of Southern Africa, takes in the very best the region has to offer. You’ll experience an amazing variety of landscapes, wildlife, ancient and colonial history, plus food and culture across four countries. You’ll see the stunning Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Chobe NP and The Okavango Delta in Botswana plus, Etosha, Sossusvlei and the Fish River canyon in Namibia. Then there’s time for a little luxury in Cape Town, South Africa’s most beautiful city.
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24 Days
Date: 13 May to 7 June 2019
At the crossroads of Asia and Eastern Europe, between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus is a unique travel destination. Few tourists visit this fascinating region, which includes Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, but those who do are struck by its beauty, culture and history. Guests on our small group tours will pass snow-capped mountains, glaciers and gorges; dine with local families and explore rock-hewn villages, mosques, UNESCO World Heritage-listed monasteries and churches.
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27 Days
Date: 2 September to 29 September 2019
Central Asia or “The Stans” is a vast landlocked region of Asia, increasing in popularity amongst travellers who want to experience one of the world’s last great frontier lands. The Silk Road gave rise to unprecedented trade, but its true brilliance and unique place in human history were the result of the interchange of ideas, innovations and philosophies that occurred amongst the very different peoples that used it. Our tour encompasses many of these historic places along with many other “story-book” destinations.
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20 Days
Date: 15 April to 5 May 2019
Portugal is a traveller’s dream come true. You’ll find fortified towns with cobblestoned streets, well preserved castles dating back to the medieval period, glorious beaches, food and wine to die for and magnificent coastal and inland scenery. It has no less than 15 UNESCO-listed cultural and natural sights!
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22 Days
Date: 05 April to 27 April 2019
Spanish colonial-style architecture, jungle wildlife and postcard perfect beaches combine to make Colombia and Panama some of South America’s most enticing travel destinations. Look out for pink river dolphins, caiman and anacondas on an Amazon River cruise, visit Indigenous communities and swim in the clear, turquoise waters of the Rosario Islands in Colombia’s Caribbean region. Then explore the Panama Canal by boat, stay in an eco lodge and visit chocolate and coffee plantations in Panama.
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21 Days
Date: 16 Mar to 6 April 2019 TOUR FULL
These three counties – Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana – sit on the Atlantic coastline of South America between Venezuela and Brazil. They are all highly multicultural having fairly recent colonial pasts. With around 80% of the entire region forming part of the Amazon basin, each has a plethora of wildlife with giant anteaters, giant otters, jaguars, caimans plus hundreds of other reptile and bird species commonly spotted. The rarest species of all in this region however, is the tourist!
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21 Days
Date: 03 September to 25 September 2020
With scenery to rival Switzerland, a growing reputation for cheese and wine and a surprising number of UNESCO World Heritage sites, it’s little wonder adventurous travellers are increasingly turning to Eastern Europe. Dine in century-old restaurants, wander along cobblestone streets and explore medieval castles – including the one said to have inspired the gothic horror novel Dracula in Transylvania – on our small group tours to Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova without the crowds, or high cost, of Western Europe.
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21 Days
Date: 17 July to 7 August 2019
David Attenborough referred to the island as “natures design laboratory”, because of the many unique creatures and vegetation, some of quite a primitive nature, which are found here. The terrain varies from tropical rainforest to desert, from high stony plateaus to lush green islands with many amazing geological and geographical formations throughout. Madagascar has a whole range of unique animals and plants, which have evolved here separated from the rest of the world. The most notable are the Lemurs of which around 120 species and sub species are described.
