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NEPAL

You’ll need to be somewhat fit to tackle the magnificent treks in Nepal, but the reward for all that effort is a front-row view of the world’s highest mountains. Back where the oxygen is less thin are fascinating cities and incredible wildlife-spotting opportunities Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your Nepal travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel The Dwarika’s (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	✈Kathmandu to Pokhara (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨The Pavilions Himalayas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You have a little more time this morning to see any sights you missed out on yesterday before the breathtaking flight to Pokhara. Once you’ve arrived, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hotel for help.
5	🚕Pokhara to Nayapul 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			These trekking times allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Birethanti 🚕Birethanti to Pokhara	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 17:00	🏨The Pavilions Himalayas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Birethanti and stopping off at Ghandrung village. Back in Pokhara treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚗Pokhara to Bandipur (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Depche Hotel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Meet your guide and enjoy the drive to Bandipur. This well-preserved medieval town boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Be wary of the signs of altitude sickness.
10	🚗Bandipur to Andrauli	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 11:00	🏨Barahi Jungle Lodge(Book >)	See all hotels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Take a power bank with you on treks and safaris.
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚗Andrauli to Kathmandu	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Hotel The Dwarika’s (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	What did you think of this Nepal itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Tibet International (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	✈Kathmandu to Pokhara (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You have a little more time this morning to see any sights you missed out on yesterday before the breathtaking flight to Pokhara. Once you’ve arrived, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hotel for help.
5	🚕Pokhara to Nayapul 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			These trekking times allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Naya Pul 🚌Naya Pul to Pokhara	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:15	Arr: 14:45 Arr: 17:15	🏨Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Naya Pul and stopping off at Ghandrung village. At the end of the trek you’ll need to wait for a passing bus back to Pokhara. Back in the city treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚌Pokhara to Dumre Bazaar 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Bandipur	Dep: 10:30 Dep: 13:30	Arr: 13:00 Arr: 14:30	🏨Gaun Ghar (Book >)	See all hotels >
	The well-preserved medieval town of Bandipur boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Ask your hotel about transport from Dumre and to book your bus ticket to Sauraha.
10	🚌Bandipur to Dumre Bazaar 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Sauraha	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 09:30 Arr: 13:30	🏨Green Park Chitwan (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Ask your hotel to collect you from the bus stop.
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚌Sauraha to Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Tibet International (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	What did you think of this Nepal itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨WanderThirst Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	🚌Kathmandu to Pokhara (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 15:00	🏨The Mountain House (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Pokhara, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hostel for help.
5	🚌Pokhara to Nayapul 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 09:00 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			These trekking times allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Naya Pul 🚌Syauli Bazaar to Naya Pul	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:15	Arr: 14:45 Arr: 17:15	🏨The Mountain House (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Naya Pul and stopping off at Ghandrung village. At the end of the trek you’ll need to wait for a passing bus back to Pokhara. Back in Pokhara treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚌Pokhara to Dumre Bazaar 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Bandipur	Dep: 10:30 Dep: 13:30	Arr: 13:00 Arr: 14:30	🏨Hotel The North Face (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Meet your guide and enjoy the drive to Bandipur. This well-preserved medieval town boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Ask your hotel about transport from Dumre and to book your bus ticket to Sauraha.
10	🚌Bandipur to Dumre Bazaar 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Sauraha	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 09:30 Arr: 13:30	🏨Hotel Rhino Land (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Ask your hostel to collect you from the bus stop.
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚌Sauraha to Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨WanderThirst Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	What did you think of this Nepal itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Ask your hostel for help flagging a meter taxi to the airport.

INDONESIA

This busy 18-day itinerary gives travellers an amazing journey through the islands of Java, Bali and Lombok. Got some spare days? Spend longer at the beach in Lombok and Bali. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your Indonesia travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax by the pool in your hotel, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon then visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨Hotel Majapahit (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Built in 1910, your hotel is a part of the history of this city. But make time to get out and see the out-of-place submarine monument.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets (I recommend paying a little more for first class AC).
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo (Book >) 🚕Probolinggo to Cemoro Lawang	Dep: 15:27 Dep: 18:15	Arr: 18:14 Arr: 19:15	🏨Bromo Terrace (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna before travelling to Cemoro Lawang.			Keep small denominations of cash on you for food, taxis, drinks etc.
6	Awake before dawn to witness sunrise over the incredible Mount Bromo landscape. Then go on a guided hike over this barren terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to pack for the cold – it’s freezing before sunrise!
7	🚕Bromo to Probolinggo 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk (Book >) 🚕Gilimanuk to Pemuteran	Dep: 10:00 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 11:00 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 17:30	🏨Matahari Beach (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang.			Be prepared for departure times to be unreliable.
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚐Pemuteran to Gunung Batur (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Volcano Terrace Bali (Book >)	See all hotels >
	After a relaxing morning in your hotel, meet your guide who will drive you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚐Gunung Batur to Ubud	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before driving on to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar 🚐Lembar to Mataram (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 11:45	🏨Hotel Oberoi Lombok (Book >)	See all hotels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok. Arrive in time for sunset at the beach.			You may want to get a taxi to Denpasar and fly to Lombok, which could be faster but much less enjoyable.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, take a horse and cart to Tanjung Village and enjoy the exquisite beach.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚕Mataram to airport (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar (Book >)	Dep: 13:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 15:00 Arr: Evening	🏨The Samaya Seminyak Bali (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Indonesia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Soak up the sun before returning home.
Mid-range
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax by the pool in your hotel, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon then visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨Hotel Majapahit (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Built in 1910, your hotel is a part of the history of this city. Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets (I recommend paying a little more for first class AC).
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo (Book >) 🚌Probolinggo bus station to Cemoro Lawang	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 10:56 Arr: 13:30	🏨Bromo Terrace (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Go on a guided hike over the barren Mount Bromo terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to take a bemo to Probolinggo bus station (Banyuangga).
7	🚌Bromo to Probolinggo bus station 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk (Book >) 🚕Gilimanuk to Pemuteran	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 10:30 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 17:30	🏨Amertha Bali Villas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Rise early for sunset, then descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang.			You’ll need to pack for the cold – it’s freezing before sunrise!.
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚌Pemuteran to Gunung Batur (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨Volcano Terrace Bali (Book >)	See all hotels >
	After a relaxing morning in your hotel, wait for a passing bemo to take you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚌Gunung Batur to Ubud	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before taking a bemo to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar 🚐Lembar to Senggigi (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 12:00	🏨Puri Mas Boutique(Book >)	See all hotels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok. Arrive in time for sunset at the beach.			You may want to get a taxi to Denpasar and fly to Lombok, which could be faster but much less enjoyable.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, take a horse and cart to Tanjung Village and enjoy the exquisite beach.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚐Sengiggi to airport (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar (Book >)	Dep: 10:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Villa Bali Asri Batubelig (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Indonesia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Soak up the sun before returning home.
Budget
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Snooze Guesthouse (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax in your hostel and, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon, visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨Krowi Inn (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets (I recommend paying a little more for first class AC).
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo (Book >) 🚌Probolinggo bus station to Cemoro Lawang	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 10:56 Arr: 13:30	🏨Cafe Lava Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Go on a guided hike over the barren Mount Bromo terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to take a bemo to Probolinggo bus station (Banyuangga).
7	🚌Bromo to Probolinggo bus station 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk (Book >) 🚌Gilimanuk to Pemuteran	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 10:30 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 18:30	🏨Bananaleaf (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Rise early for sunset, then descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang. In Gilimanuk wait for a bemo going to Pemuteran.			You’ll need to pack for the cold – it’s freezing before sunrise!.
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚌Pemuteran to Gunung Batur (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨BlackLava Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Wait for a passing bemo to take you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚌Gunung Batur to Ubud	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨Green Paddy Hostel Villa (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before taking a bemo to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai (Book >) ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar (Book >) 🚌Lembar to Kuta Lombok	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 13:00	🏨Pipes Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok.			You’ll need to wait for a bemo in Lembar port and negotiate the price to Kuta Lombok.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, go surfing and enjoy the exquisite nearby beaches.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚐Kuta Lombok to airport (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar (Book >)	Dep: 10:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Pudak Sari Unizou Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Indonesia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Soak up the sun before returning home.

COSTA RICA

Bursting with wildlife, volcanoes and gorgeous beaches, Costa Rica’s size makes it easy to get around and full of incredible sights. As with many itineraries, so as to optimise the journey the Mid-range version borrows some of the better hotels from the Luxury version and makes savings elsewhere to bring the cost down. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your Costa Rica travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈To San Jose (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Barceló San José (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from many countries do not require a visa for entry.
2	The Museo del Oro Precolombino contains many fascinating Pre-Colombian gold exhibits. Stop by the Catedral Metropolitana and admire the ornate interior. You’ll find plenty of things to buy in the Mercado Centrale.			‘Sodas’ are family-run restaurants that serve local food.
3	✈San Jose to Tortuguero (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Manatus Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once in Tortuguero National Park enjoy a boat tours along the waterways and then, in the evening, go on a guided tour through the hotel grounds.			You’ll need to pay a fee before entering the park.
4	Visit Tortuguero Village for a taste of Afro-Caribbean culture, take to the water in a kayak. A canopy tour is a must for thrill seekers and a night-time turtle hatching tour is a must for everyone.			Tap water is safe in Costa Rica, but if you’re really worried about stomach problems buy a filter water bottle and top up from taps.
5	⛴️🚐Tortuguero to Arenal (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Hotel Nayara Spa & Gardens (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Use your last few hours in Tortuguero to see anything you may have missed out on days 3 and 4. From your beautiful hotel in La Fortuna you can often see the lava flows from Arenal volcano.			Roads in Costa Rica can be unpaved – be prepared for bumpy rides
6	Go on hikes long or short in Volcano Arenal National Park. When you’ve exhausted yourself visit one of the many thermal spas in the area (I recommend Tabacon Hot Springs)			Do you need a guide for hiking here? Not really – park rangers will close trails if they’re unsafe.
7	🚕⛴️🚕Arenal to Monteverde (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨Hotel Belmar (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Spend the afternoon relaxing after the journey from La Fortuna. In the evening go on a guided night walk to meet the areas many nocturnal critters.			It can rain even in dry season here – bring good waterproofs. It can also get cold at night.
8	Experience the tree tops via zipline or canopy walk, visit the cloud forest, ride on a very sedate aerial tramway, or see the wildlife from the ground on a guided walk.			The Certificate of Sustainable Tourism ranks businesses from 1 to 5 based on their commitment to carbon neutrality.
9	🚐Monteverde to Playa Panama (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Hotel Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Playa Panama is one of the best beaches in the region and is perfect for swimming.			Many businesses close down for the month of October.
10-12	See sea turtles at Playa Grande, visit nearby national parks, go sea kayaking, diving or snorkelling, have a surfing lesson or white water rafting experience…or just do nothing at all on the beach.			Protect the environment and buy an eco-friendly sunscreen.
13-14	🚕Playa Panama to Liberia (Book >) ✈Liberia to San Jose (Book >) ✈San Jose to Home (Book >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: Morning Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 08:45 Morning Arr: Afternoon (next day)	What did you think of this Costa Rica itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Ensure you leave a few hours between the time your flight from Libera lands and your flight home departs.
Mid-range
1	✈To San Jose (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Terrazas De Golf (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from many countries do not require a visa for entry.
2	The Museo del Oro Precolombino contains many fascinating Pre-Colombian gold exhibits. Stop by the Catedral Metropolitana and admire the ornate interior. You’ll find plenty of things to buy in the Mercado Centrale.			‘Sodas’ are family-run restaurants that serve local food.
3	✈San Jose to Tortuguero (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Manatus Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once in Tortuguero National Park enjoy a boat tours along the waterways and then, in the evening, go on a guided tour through the hotel grounds.			You’ll need to pay a fee before entering the park.
4	Visit Tortuguero Village for a taste of Afro-Caribbean culture, take to the water in a kayak. A canopy tour is a must for thrill seekers and a night-time turtle hatching tour is a must for everyone.			Tap water is safe in Costa Rica, but if you’re really worried about stomach problems buy a filter water bottle and top up from taps.
5	⛴️🚐Tortuguero to Arenal (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Hotel El Silencio del Campo (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Use your last few hours in Tortuguero to see anything you may have missed out on days 3 and 4. From your hotel you can often see the glow of lava from Arenal volcano.			Roads in Costa Rica can be unpaved – be prepared for bumpy rides
6	Go on hikes long or short in Volcano Arenal National Park. When you’ve exhausted yourself visit one of the many thermal spas in the area (I recommend Tabacon Hot Springs)			Do you need a guide for hiking here? Not really – park rangers will close trails if they’re unsafe.
7	🚕⛴️🚕Arenal to Monteverde (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨Casa Batsu (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Spend the afternoon relaxing after the journey from La Fortuna. In the evening go on a guided night walk to meet the areas many nocturnal critters.			It can rain even in dry season here – bring good waterproofs. It can also get cold at night.
8	Experience the tree tops via zipline or canopy walk, visit the cloud forest, ride on a very sedate aerial tramway, or see the wildlife from the ground on a guided walk.			The Certificate of Sustainable Tourism ranks businesses from 1 to 5 based on their commitment to carbon neutrality.
9	🚐Monteverde to Playa Tamarindo(Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:30	🏨Tamarindo Bay Boutique (Book >)	See all hotels >
	As well as having a beautiful beach, Tamarindo is also a pretty town with excellent resaurants.			Many businesses close down for the month of October.
10-12	See sea turtles at Playa Grande, visit nearby national parks, go sea kayaking, diving or snorkelling, have a surfing lesson or white water rafting experience…or just do nothing at all on the beach.			Protect the environment and buy an eco-friendly sunscreen.
13-14	🚕Playa Tamarindo to Liberia (Book >) ✈Liberia to San Jose (Book >) ✈San Jose to Home (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: Morning Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 09:00 Morning Arr: Afternoon (next day)	What did you think of this Costa Rica itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Ensure you leave a few hours between the time your flight from Libera lands and your flight home departs.
Budget
1	✈To San Jose (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Hostel Urbano (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from many countries do not require a visa for entry.
2	The Museo del Oro Precolombino contains many fascinating Pre-Colombian gold exhibits. Stop by the Catedral Metropolitana and admire the ornate interior. You’ll find plenty of things to buy in the Mercado Centrale.			‘Sodas’ are family-run restaurants that serve great value local food.
3	🚌San Jose to Cariari 🚌Cariari to La Pavona ⛴️La Pavona to Toruguero	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 15:00 Dep: 16:30	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 16:15 Arr: 17:45	🏨Aracari Garden Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	This bus schedule assumes that you’ll miss the 11:30 Cariara to La Pavona departure (although that bus should wait), but if not then boats to Tortuguero will be waiting at earlier times. Once in Tortuguero National Park go on a guided night tour to see the wildlife.			Tap water is safe in Costa Rica, but if you’re really worried about stomach problems buy a filter water bottle and top up from taps.
4	Visit Tortuguero Village for a taste of Afro-Caribbean culture, take to the water in a kayak. A canopy tour is a must for thrill seekers and a night-time turtle hatching tour is a must for everyone.			You’ll need to pay a fee before entering the park.
5	⛴️🚐Tortuguero to La Fortuna (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Howler Monkey Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Use your last few hours in Tortuguero to see anything you may have missed out on days 3 and 4. At night in La Fortuna you can often see the lava glow from Arenal volcano.			Roads in Costa Rica can be unpaved – be prepared for bumpy rides (especially between
6	Go on hikes long or short in Volcano Arenal National Park. Exhausted? Treat yourself to one of the many thermal spas in the area (I recommend Tabacon Hot Springs)			Do you need a guide for hiking here? Not really – park rangers will close trails if they’re unsafe.
7	🚌La Fortuna to Tilarán 🚌Tilarán to Santa Elena (Info >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 12:30	Arr: 11:00 Arr: 15:00	🏨OutBox Inn (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing after the journey from La Fortuna. In the evening go on a guided night walk to meet the areas many nocturnal critters.			For several dollars more you can shave 5 hrs off your journey with a shuttle-boat-shuttle combination.
8	Experience the tree tops via zipline or canopy walk, visit the cloud forest, ride on a very sedate aerial tramway, or see the wildlife from the ground on a guided walk.			It can rain even in dry season here – bring good waterproofs. It can also get cold at night.
9	🚌Monteverde to Puntarenas (Info >) ⛴️Puntarenas to Paquera (Info >) 🚌Paquera to Montezuma (Info >)	Dep: 06:00 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 09:30 Arr: 12:10 Arr: 16:00	🏨Proyecto Montezuma Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Situated right on the beach and with plenty of hammocks, the hostel is the perfect place to chill out after that journey.			It’s cheaper to bring snorkel equipment from home than to join a tour.
10-12	Visit the nearby waterfall, go sea kayaking, diving or snorkelling, have a surfing lesson…or just do nothing at all on the beach.			Protect the environment and buy an eco-friendly sunscreen.
13	🚌Montezuma to Paquera (Info >) ⛴️Paquera to Puntarenas (Info >) 🚌Puntarenas to San Jose (Info >)	Dep: 12:00 Dep: 14:00 Dep: 16:00	Arr: 14:00 Arr: 15:15 Arr: 17:30	🏨Hostel Urbano (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Make the most of your last morning on the beach before returning to the capital.			Many businesses close down for the month of October.
14-15	✈San Jose to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon (next day)	What did you think of this Costa Rica itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	An exit tax is applied to many airline tickets (check the list here).

NAMIBIA

Sparsely populated, but crammed with incredible sights, Namibia offers intrepid travellers huge rewards for challenging travel. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your Namibia travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈Windhoek (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Hilton Windhoek (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Arrive into Windhoek with time to visit the Namibia Craft Centre.
3	🚗Windhoek to Fish River Canyon (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 16:00	🏨Canyon Roadhouse (Book >)	See all hotels >
	This is your longest drive, but you’ll end it at one of the most spectacular, under-rated places in Africa. Driver the 25 minutes to the canyon viewpoint for sunset.			You will need to hire a 4×4 vehicle as parts of this journey are on rough tracks.
4	🚗Fish River Canyon to Sossusvlei	Dep: 12:30	Arr: 18:45	🏨Le Mirage Resort & Spa (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Take a morning hike with a hotel guide into Gondwana Canyon Park before the drive to Sesriem. Marvel at the desert sunset in Sossusvlei.			Tap water is safe here – bring re-usable bottles and make sure you keep topped up.
5	Wake up early for a magical hot air balloon ride at sunrise. Then go on a drive to Dune 45, Dead Vlei and Sesriem Canyon.			Visiting from South Africa? The Namibian Dollar is kept at parity with the South African Rand.
6	🚗Sossusvlei to Walvis Bay	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 12:30	🏨Bay View Resort Namibia (Book >)	See all hotels >
	In Walvis Bay book on to the 13:00 tour to Sandwich Harbour, on which you’ll see flamingoes, the Kuiseb River Delta and the Sandwich Harbour Lagoon.			Be prepared for expensive fuel prices and remember to fill up before setting out into remote areas.
7	Today you’ll go on an unforgettable flight over the Skeleton Coast from nearby Swakopmund.			Vegetarians may struggle here, but the excellent Happy Cow site lists good vegan restaurants.
8	🚗Walvis Bay to Damaraland	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨Damaraland Camp (Book >)	See all hotels >
	One of Namibia’s least populated areas, Damaraland offers wild scenery, rock art and wildlife.			It gets cold here when the sun goes down – pack layers.
9	Take a guided walk through the amazing scenery of Damaraland, go on guided drives during the day or at night, or visit the local Nama-Damara, Herero and Ovambo communities.			I once wrecked a camera here due to the constant dust. Be sure to protect your technology!
10	🚗Damaraland to Etosha	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 19:30	🏨Emanya@etosha (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Time in the morning to take part in any activities you missed out on during days 8 and 9. In afternoon drive through Etosha National Park to your luxurious hotel.			Any drive through Etosha will involve wildlife spotting, so give yourself plenty of time to take pics.
11	More time today to meet the wildlife of Etosha National Park.			Accommodation is limited, book as far in advance as you can.
10	🚗Etosha to Windhoek	Dep: 13:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Hotel Hilton Windhoek (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Take one last game drive, then return to Windhoek and drop off your car.			Windhoek has a number of excellent beer houses, due to it once being a German colony.
11	✈Windhoek to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Namibia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Botswana is just across the border if you wish to continue your adventure.
Mid-range
1	✈Windhoek (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Hilton Windhoek (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Arrive into Windhoek with time to visit the Namibia Craft Centre.
3	🚗Windhoek to Fish River Canyon (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 16:00	🏨Canyon Roadhouse (Book >)	See all hotels >
	This is your longest drive, but you’ll end it at one of the most spectacular, under-rated places in Africa. Drive the 25 minutes to the canyon viewpoint for sunset.			You will need to hire a 4×4 vehicle as parts of this journey are on rough tracks.
4	🚗Fish River Canyon to Sossusvlei	Dep: 12:30	Arr: 18:45	🏨Desert Camp (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Take a morning hike with a hotel guide into Gondwana Canyon Park before the drive to Sesriem. Marvel at the desert sunset in Sossusvlei.			Tap water is safe here – bring re-usable bottles and make sure you keep topped up.
5	Wake up early and head up Dune 45 for sunrise, then visit Dead Vlei and Sesriem Canyon.			Visiting from South Africa? The Namibian Dollar is kept at parity with the South African Rand.
6	🚗Sossusvlei to Walvis Bay	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 12:30	🏨Bay View Resort Namibia (Book >)	See all hotels >
	In Walvis Bay book on to the 13:00 tour to Sandwich Harbour, on which you’ll see flamingoes, the Kuiseb River Delta and the Sandwich Harbour Lagoon.			Be prepared for expensive fuel prices and remember to fill up before setting out into remote areas.
7	Today take an unforgettable flight over the Skeleton Coast from nearby Swakopmund.			Vegetarians may struggle here, but the excellent Happy Cow site lists good vegan restaurants.
8	🚗Walvis Bay to Damaraland	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 15:00	🏨Grootberg Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	One of Namibia’s least populated areas, Damaraland offers wild scenery, rock art and wildlife.			It gets cold here when the sun goes down – pack layers.
9	Take a guided walk through the amazing scenery of Damaraland, go on guided drives during the day or at night, or visit the local Nama-Damara, Herero and Ovambo communities.			I once wrecked a camera here due to the constant dust. Be sure to protect your technology!
10	🚗Damaraland to Etosha	Dep: 11:30	Arr: 19:30	🏨Emanya@etosha (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Time in the morning to take part in any activities you missed out on during days 8 and 9. In afternoon drive through Etosha National Park to your luxurious hotel.			Any drive through Etosha will involve wildlife spotting, so give yourself plenty of time to take pics.
11	More time today to meet the wildlife of Etosha National Park.			Accommodation is limited, book as far in advance as you can.
10	🚗Etosha to Windhoek	Dep: 13:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Hotel Hilton Windhoek (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Take one last game drive, then return to Windhoek and drop off your car.			Windhoek has a number of excellent beer houses, due to it once being a German colony.
11	✈Windhoek to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Namibia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Botswana is just across the border if you wish to continue your adventure.
Budget
1	✈Windhoek (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Chameleon Backpackers (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Arrive into Windhoek with time to visit the Namibia Craft Centre.
3	🚌Windhoek to Walvis Bay (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 15:10	🏨Loubser’s B&B Self Catering (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you arrive into Walvis Bay take a walk to the lagoon or head to Owambo Beach.			Please note that buses do not depart daily.
4	Go dune boarding, enjoy a nature drive, or go kayaking to Pelican Point.			Save money by bringing your own tent and sleeping bag.
5	🚗Walvis Bay to Sesriem (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:00	⛺Sesriem Campsite (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Drive to Sossussvlei, visit Dead Vlei and Sesriem Canyon then marvel at the desert sunset.			You will need to hire a 4×4 vehicle as parts of this journey are on rough tracks.
6	🚗Sesriem to Hobas	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 15:00	⛺Hobas Camp (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Wake early and head up Dune 45 for sunrise. Your longest drive of the trip will take you to the spectacular Fish River Canyon			Be prepared for expensive fuel prices and remember to fill up before setting out into remote areas.
7	🚗Hobas to Windhoek 🚌Windhoek to Tsumeb (Book >)	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 18:00	Arr: 15:30 Arr: 23:40	🏨Tsumeb Backpackers (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Another early start to see another incredible sunrise, then drive to Windhoek to drop off the car before catching the bus to Tsumeb, next to Etosha National Park			Vegetarians may struggle here, but the excellent Happy Cow site lists good vegan restaurants.
8-10	Contact Tsumeb Bckpackers in advance and ask them to arrange a guided tour to Damaraland and Etosha National Park.			Accommodation is limited, book as far in advance as you can.
11	🚌Tsumeb to Windhoek (Book >)	Dep: 23:59		🏨Chameleon Backpackers (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Another early start to see another incredible sunrise, then drive to Windhoek to drop off the car before catching the bus to Tsumeb, next to Etosha National Park			Vegetarians may struggle here, but the excellent Happy Cow site lists good vegan restaurants.
11	🚌Tsumeb to Windhoek ✈Windhoek to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 05:40 Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Namibia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Botswana is just across the border if you wish to continue your adventure.

FIJI & SAMOA

Paradise? Oh yes. Here are those too-good-to-be-true beaches, but here also is a fascinating, welcoming culture and lush island interiors. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget (due to the cost of flights to Samoa the Budget version doesn’t include this option). Here’s your Fiji & Samoa travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈To Nadi (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island (Book >)	See all hotels >
	After a verrrrry long journey take it easy in your luxurious hotel.
4	Another day on which to chill out by the pool or on the beach. Feeling energetic? Take an excursion to Viseisei Village.			Visitors from most countries won’t need a visa, but will need to meet a few simple conditions.
5	🚗Nadi to Natadola Bay (Hire car >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Collect your car then take a short drive to idyllic Natadola Bay.			Make sure your insurance covers you for driving on dirt roads
6-7	Located on Fiji’s Coral Coast, your resort is well-placed for diving and snorkelling, as well as kayaking or, of course, doing nothing on the beach. For something a bit different go rafting on the Upper Navua River.			Save the environment by using a f ilter water bottle.
8	🚗Natadola Bay to Pacific Harbour	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 11:00	🏨Nanuku Resort & Spa (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Pacific Harbour has both gorgeous beaches and close proximity to the Pacific Harbour Arts Village and Suva, where you can wander around downtown and visit the Fiji Museum.			Fiji is a very relaxed country where punctuality isn’t particularly important.
9	🚗Pacific Harbour to Nadi ✈Nadi to Apia (Book >)	Dep: 09:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Seabreeze Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Leave the car at the airport and take the two-hour flight to Samoa, where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset at the beach.			Fiji is GMT +12 and Samoa is GMT +13.
10-14	Over the next few days you can choose to relax on picture-perfect beaches, or hire a car to see Robert Louis Stephenson’s former home at Villa Vailima, the historic Bahai Temple, Upola’s northern coast. You could drive to Mulifanua and take the ferry to Savai’i for the day to enjoy the island’s waterfalls.			Ask permission before taking photos in a village.
15	✈Apia to Nadi (Book >) 🚁Nadi to Mamanuca Islands (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening Arr: 10 mins later	🏨Likuliku Lagoon Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Enjoy another couple of hours in Samoa before the journey to your Fiji island resort.			It’s also possible to get to the resort by catamaran, private speedboat or seaplane.
16-18	Time to truly relax on some of the best beaches in the world, set in the volcanic Mamanuca Islands.			Buy an eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the delicate reefs.
19-20	🚁Mamanuca Islands to Nadi (Book >) ✈Nadi to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10 mins later Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Fiji & Samoa itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Pay to enter the well-rated Fiji Airways Premier Lounge.
Mid-range
1	✈To Nadi (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Ramada Suites Wailoaloa Beach (Book >)	See all hotels >
	After a verrrrry long journey take it easy in your conveniently-located hotel.
4	Another day on which to chill out by the pool or on the beach. Feeling energetic? Take an excursion to Viseisei Village.			Visitors from most countries won’t need a visa, but will need to meet a few simple conditions.
5	🚌Nadi to Korotogo (Info >)	Dep: 13:00	Arr: 14:45	🏨Hotel Bedarra Beach Inn (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Take the bus and then a taxi to the beautiful Coral Coast.			Ask the driver to drop you off at Korotogo roundabout (after Sigatoka)
6-7	Go snorkelling, as well as kayaking or, of course, doing nothing on the beach. For something a bit different take a tour and go rafting on the Upper Navua River.			Save the environment by using a f ilter water bottle.
8	🚌Korotogo to Suva (Info >)	Dep: 10:45	Arr: 13:00	🏨Grand Pacific (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Suva, the capital of Fiji, is a lovely place to wander around. Visit the Fiji Museum and the Municipal Market and Municipal Handicraft Centre.			Fiji is a very relaxed country where punctuality isn’t particularly important.
9	🚌Suva to Nadi (Info >) ✈Nadi to Apia (Book >)	Dep: 06:45 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:05 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Aga Reef Resort And Spa (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Take the early bus to get catch the two-hour flight to Samoa, where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset at the beach.			Taxi fares to your beach resort are listed here (the journey from the airport should be around 1.5 hrs).
10-14	Over the next few days you can choose to relax on picture-perfect beaches, or hire a car to see Robert Louis Stephenson’s former home at Villa Vailima, the historic Bahai Temple, Upola’s northern coast. You could drive to Mulifanua and take the ferry to Savai’i for the day to enjoy the island’s waterfalls.			Fiji is GMT +12 and Samoa is GMT +13.
15	✈Apia to Nadi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Ramada Suites Wailoaloa Beach (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Enjoy another couple of hours in Samoa before the journey back to Fiji.			Contact your hotel and take advantage of their airport shuttle.
16	⛴️Nadi to Tokoriki Island (Book >)	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 16:00	🏨Sheraton Resort & Spa Tokoriki Island (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Enjoy another couple of hours in Samoa before the journey to your Fiji island resort.			It’s also possible to get to the resort by catamaran, private speedboat or seaplane.
17-19	Time to truly relax on some of the best beaches in the world, set in the volcanic Mamanuca Islands.			Buy an eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the delicate reefs.
20-21	⛴️Tokoriki Island to Nadi (Book >) ✈Nadi to Home (Book >)	Dep: 10:15 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 12:00 Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Fiji & Samoa itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Pay to enter the well-rated Fiji Airways Premier Lounge.
Budget (Fiji only)
1	✈To Nadi (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Travellers Beach Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	After a verrrrry long journey take a short taxi ride to the hostel.
4	Another day on which to chill out by the pool or on the beach. Feeling energetic? Take an excursion to Viseisei Village.			Visitors from most countries won’t need a visa, but will need to meet a few simple conditions.
5	🚌Nadi to Korolevu (Info >)	Dep: 10:25	Arr: 13:15	🏨The Beachhouse (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Take the bus from Nadi to the beautiful Coral Coast.			Pay for your bus journey with cash on board.
6-7	Go diving, snorkelling, kayaking, or just do nothing on the beach. For something a bit different go rafting on the Upper Navua River.			Save the environment by using a f ilter water bottle.
8	🚌Korolevu to Suva 🚌Suva to Pacific Harbour (Info >)	Dep: 10:05 Dep: 16:30	Arr: 11:20 Arr: 17:50	🏨Uprising Beach Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Pacific Harbour has both gorgeous beaches and close proximity to Suva, where you can spend a few hours wandering around downtown and visit the Fiji Museum.			Fancy an adventure? Goundar Shipping offers overnight passage to Savusavu on the island of Vanua Levu from Suva on Mon, Wed and Fri, returning Tue, Thu and Sun. Email goundarshipping@kidanet.net.fj for details.
9	🚌Pacific Harbour to Nadi (Info >)	Dep: 16:05	Arr: 19:15	🏨Travellers Beach Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	See any sights you missed out on yesterday before returning to Nadi.			Learn a few basic Fijian words and phrases, (especially Bula – pronounced Boo-lah)
10	⛴️Nadi to Waya Island (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 11:00	🏨Octopus Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Check in for the ferry to the Yasawas Islands and arrive in plenty of time for an afternoon at the beach.			You may want to take motion sickness tablets for the ferry journey.
11-16	Over the next few days you can choose to explore the island on a guided hike, go snorkelling or diving, visit a local village or just do nothing.			Ask permission before taking photos in a village.
17	⛴️Waya Island to Nadi (Book >)	Dep: 15:15	Arr: 17:45	🏨Travellers Beach Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Enjoy a your last day on the beach before returning to Nadi.			Take part in a traditional kava ceremony (although the taste of kava isn’t great!)
18-19	✈Nadi to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Fiji itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	You can also fly low-cost to Australia.

SWITZERLAND

If you like mountains, picturesque valleys, cute Alpine scenes, beautiful lakes and excellent public transport, you’re going to love Switzerland. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your Switzerland itinerary:

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Luxury
1	To Zurich (✈ Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Widder Hotel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you’ve checked in to your hotel in the lovely Lindenhof district, go for an evening stroll along Niederdorfstrasse.			Buy a Swiss Travel Pass in advance as this will include the train journey from the airport.
2	Visit historic Grossmünster church and then the Swiss National Museum. Indulge in some shopping along Bahnhofstrasse and then go to the fascinating horology museum Uhrenmuseum Beyer. In the evening go for a drink at the famous Cabaret Voltaire.			Public bicycles are free to use in Zurich – put down a small deposit at the Swiss National Museum and remember to bring ID.
3	🚄Zurich to Lucerne (Book >)	Dep: 10:04	Arr: 10:49	🏨Hotel des Balances (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Explore the Old Town then take a trip up Mount Pilatus which, between May and October, can be visited as part of the Golden Round Trip. Back in town a walk across the famous Chapel Bridge is a must, as are the city defences of Musegg Wall.			Consider downloading the SBB rail app, for quick and easy reference to the rail system timetable.
4	🚄Lucerne to Interlaken Ost 🚄Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald (Book >)	Dep: 12:06 Dep: 14:05	Arr: 13:55 Arr: 14:38	🏨Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, then enjoy the beautiful train ride to Grindelwald. Here you can take the gondola up to First and enjoy hikes long or short in tremendous mountain scenery (my favourites include to Grosse Scheidegg or Bachalpsee).			Pack layers – it can be warm in the valleys but cold up the mountains.
5	Today you’ll embark on one of the most incredible journeys on this planet; two steep train journeys to the mountain-top Jungfraujoch. Later in the afternoon visit the dramatic Gletscherschlucht.			Go for a short walk to Mönchsjoch Hut when you reach Jungfraujoch
6	🚄Grindelwald to Zweilütschinen 🚄Zweilütschinen to Lauterbrunnen (Book >) 🚡Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp 🚄Grütschalp to Mürren (Book >)	Dep: 09:49 Dep: 10:16 Dep: 10:38 Dep: 10:44	Arr: 10:09 Arr: 10:25 Arr: 10:42 Arr: 10:58	🏨Hotel Eiger (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A true test of the perfectly punctual Swiss transport system, this is a journey which you’ll be glued to the window throughout. When you arrive you can enjoy the peaceful alpine village of Mürren before heading on up the remarkable Schilthorn.			The Schilthorn restaurant may not have the most refined cuisine, but it does revolve and is the best place to see the views.
7	🚄Mürren to Grütschalp 🚡Grütschalp to Lauterbrunnen (Book >) 🚄Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken Ost 🚄Interlaken Ost to Spiez 🚄Spiez to Visp 🚄Visp to Zermatt (Book >)	Dep: 09:58 Dep: 10:13 Dep: 10:32 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 11:36 Dep: 12:08	Arr: 10:11 Arr: 10:17 Arr: 10:53 Arr: 11:21 Arr: 12:02 Arr: 13:14	🏨Hotel The Omnia (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Another day of picturesque journeys and another day where you end up in glorious mountain scenery. Zermatt is where you come for views of the famous Matterhorn, best seen from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.			Miss a connection? Not a problem. Trains in Switzerland are frequent.
8	🚄Zermatt to Visp 🚄Visp to Montreux (Book >)	Dep: 14:13 Dep: 15:35	Arr: 15:22 Arr: 16:46	🏨Hotel Victoria (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Ride on the Gornergrat Bahn for your last mountain journey and hike, then depart for Montreux where you can stroll along the lake to Chillon Castle.			You are now in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.
9	🚄Montreux to Geneva (Book >)	Dep: 11:47	Arr: 12:48	🏨Hotel D’Angleterre (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Time for more promenade strolling before departing to Geneva. In Geneva you can walk down to the waterfront to look at the huge fountain, go to St. Pierre Cathedral and climb the towers, see the muddy and clear rivers meet at La Pointe de la Jonction and visit the United Nations building.			Get a free Geneva Transport Card from your hotel.
10	Geneva to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	What did you think of this Switzerland itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Enjoy any sights you missed yesterday before heading to the airport.
Mid-range
1	To Zurich (✈ Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel Plattenhof (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you’ve checked in to your hotel in the lovely Lindenhof district, go for an evening stroll along Niederdorfstrasse.			Buy a Swiss Travel Pass in advance as this will include the train journey from the airport.
2	Visit historic Grossmünster church and then the Swiss National Museum. Indulge in some shopping along Bahnhofstrasse and then go to the fascinating horology museum Uhrenmuseum Beyer. In the evening go for a drink at the famous Cabaret Voltaire.			Public bicycles are free to use in Zurich – put down a small deposit at the Swiss National Museum and remember to bring ID.
3	🚄Zurich to Lucerne (Book >)	Dep: 10:04	Arr: 10:49	🏨Keyforge City Apartments Waldstätter 8 (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Explore the Old Town then take a trip up Mount Pilatus which, between May and October, can be visited as part of the Golden Round Trip. Back in town a walk across the famous Chapel Bridge is a must, as are the city defences of Musegg Wall.			Consider downloading the SBB rail app, for quick and easy reference to the rail system timetable.
4	🚄Lucerne to Interlaken Ost 🚄Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald (Book >)	Dep: 12:06 Dep: 14:05	Arr: 13:55 Arr: 14:38	🏨Hotel Alpina (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, then enjoy the beautiful train ride to Grindelwald. Here you can take the gondola up to First and enjoy hikes long or short in tremendous mountain scenery (my favourites include to Grosse Scheidegg or Bachalpsee).			Pack layers – it can be warm in the valleys but cold up the mountains.
5	Today you’ll embark on one of the most incredible journeys on this planet; two steep train journeys to the mountain-top Jungfraujoch. Later in the afternoon visit the dramatic Gletscherschlucht.			Go for a short walk to Mönchsjoch Hut when you reach Jungfraujoch
6	🚄Grindelwald to Zweilütschinen 🚄Zweilütschinen to Lauterbrunnen (Book >) 🚡Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp 🚄Grütschalp to Mürren (Book >)	Dep: 09:49 Dep: 10:16 Dep: 10:38 Dep: 10:44	Arr: 10:09 Arr: 10:25 Arr: 10:42 Arr: 10:58	🏨Eiger Guesthouse(Book >)	See all hotels >
	A true test of the perfectly punctual Swiss transport system, this is a journey which you’ll be glued to the window throughout. When you arrive you can enjoy the peaceful alpine village of Mürren before heading on up the remarkable Schilthorn.			The Schilthorn restaurant may not have the most refined cuisine, but it does revolve and is the best place to see the views.
7	🚄Mürren to Grütschalp 🚡Grütschalp to Lauterbrunnen (Book >) 🚄Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken Ost 🚄Interlaken Ost to Spiez 🚄Spiez to Visp 🚄Visp to Zermatt (Book >)	Dep: 09:58 Dep: 10:13 Dep: 10:32 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 11:36 Dep: 12:08	Arr: 10:11 Arr: 10:17 Arr: 10:53 Arr: 11:21 Arr: 12:02 Arr: 13:14	🏨Hotel Bella Vista (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Another day of picturesque journeys and another day where you end up in glorious mountain scenery. Zermatt is where you come for views of the famous Matterhorn, best seen from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.			Miss a connection? Not a problem. Trains in Switzerland are frequent.
8	🚄Zermatt to Visp 🚄Visp to Montreux (Book >)	Dep: 14:13 Dep: 15:35	Arr: 15:22 Arr: 16:46	🏨Golf Hotel René Capt (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Ride on the Gornergrat Bahn for your last mountain journey and hike, then depart for Montreux where you can stroll along the lake to Chillon Castle.			You are now in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.
9	🚄Montreux to Geneva (Book >)	Dep: 11:47	Arr: 12:48	🏨Starling Residence Genève (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Time for more promenade strolling before departing to Geneva. In Geneva you can walk down to the waterfront to look at the huge fountain, go to St. Pierre Cathedral and climb the towers, see the muddy and clear rivers meet at La Pointe de la Jonction and visit the United Nations building.			Get a free Geneva Transport Card from your hotel.
10	Geneva to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	What did you think of this Switzerland itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Enjoy any sights you missed yesterday before heading to the airport.
Budget
1	To Zurich (✈ Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Youthhostel Zurich (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you’ve checked in to your hotel in the lovely Lindenhof district, go for an evening stroll along Niederdorfstrasse.			Using buses for some of your journeys means you can get a Swiss Travel Pass for 4 days of train travel and then a single additional train ticket to Geneva on day 9.
2	Visit historic Grossmünster church and then the Swiss National Museum. Indulge in some shopping along Bahnhofstrasse and then go to the fascinating horology museum Uhrenmuseum Beyer. In the evening go for a drink at the famous Cabaret Voltaire.			Public bicycles are free to use in Zurich – put down a small deposit at the Swiss National Museum and remember to bring ID.
3	🚌Zurich to Lucerne (Book >)	Dep: 09:40	Arr: 10:40	🏨Barabas Luzern (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Explore the Old Town then take a trip up Mount Pilatus which, between May and October, can be visited as part of the Golden Round Trip. Back in town a walk across the famous Chapel Bridge is a must, as are the city defences of Musegg Wall.			Äss-Bar is a new concept in Switzerland and is a chain of stores that collects bread and pastries just at the end of their sell-buy dates and sells on at low prices.
4	🚄Lucerne to Interlaken Ost 🚄Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald (Book >)	Dep: 12:06 Dep: 14:05	Arr: 13:55 Arr: 14:38	🏨Youthhostel Grindelwald (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, then enjoy the beautiful train ride to Grindelwald. Here you can take the gondola up to First and enjoy hikes long or short in tremendous mountain scenery (my favourites include to Grosse Scheidegg or Bachalpsee).			Pack layers – it can be warm in the valleys but cold up the mountains.
5	Today you’ll embark on one of the most incredible journeys on this planet; two steep train journeys to the mountain-top Jungfraujoch. Later in the take the 122 bus to the dramatic Gletscherschlucht.			Go for a short walk to Mönchsjoch Hut when you reach Jungfraujoch
6	🚄Grindelwald to Zweilütschinen 🚄Zweilütschinen to Lauterbrunnen (Book >)	Dep: 09:49 Dep: 10:16	Arr: 10:09 Arr: 10:25	🏨Valley Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	After a beautiful journey hike to Trümmelbach Falls. If you can afford the fare, take the cable car to the lovely village of Mürren and on to the remarkable Schilthorn.			Your hostel has a kitchen – save money by buying food in the Coop supermarket in town.
7	🚄Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken Ost 🚄Interlaken Ost to Spiez 🚄Spiez to Visp 🚄Visp to Zermatt (Book >)	Dep: 10:32 Dep: 11:00 Dep: 11:36 Dep: 12:08	Arr: 10:53 Arr: 11:21 Arr: 12:02 Arr: 13:14	🏨Youthhostel Zermatt (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Another day of picturesque journeys and another day where you end up in glorious mountain scenery. Zermatt is where you come for views of the famous Matterhorn, best seen from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.			If you’re staying a few nights with Swiss Youth Hostels then consider membership which can save you money.
8	🚄Zermatt to Visp 🚄Visp to Montreux (Book >)	Dep: 14:13 Dep: 15:35	Arr: 15:22 Arr: 16:46	🏨Youthhostel Montreux (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Ride on the Gornergrat Bahn for your last mountain journey and hike, then depart for Montreux where you can stroll along the lake to Chillon Castle.			You are now in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.
9	🚄Montreux to Geneva (Book >)	Dep: 11:47	Arr: 12:48	🏨City Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Time for more promenade strolling before departing to Geneva. In Geneva you can walk down to the waterfront to look at the huge fountain, go to St. Pierre Cathedral and climb the towers, see the muddy and clear rivers meet at La Pointe de la Jonction and visit the United Nations building.			Get a free Geneva Transport Card from your hotel.
10	Geneva to Home (✈Book >) (🚄 Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening Arr: Afternoon	What did you think of this Switzerland itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Enjoy any sights you missed yesterday before heading to the airport.

KENYA

Kenya is a classic safari destination. This itinerary takes in two of the best national parks, and ends in idyllic Diani Beach on the Indian Ocean. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your Kenya travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈To Nairobi (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Villa Rosa Kempinski (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from most countries can apply for an eVisa.
2	Enjoy a relaxing day in Nairobi, visiting the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum (author of Out of Africa), the nearby the Kazuri Beads Factory and the collections in the National Archives.			Don’t haggle too much when buying souvenirs – it can be seen as rude if you’re too persistent.
3	Take a day trip to Lake Nakuru, located in Africa’s immense Rift Valley.			Check out which immunisations you may need.
4	🚁Nairobi to Masai Mara (Book >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 10:00	Arr: 09:00 Arr: 13:45	🏨Mara Explorer Tented Camp (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Transfer to Nairobi airport from where you’ll be flown by helicopter over the savannah to the luxurious Mara Explorer camp. This is your base camp for safaris in the Masai Mara.			Single-use plastic are banned in Kenya from 2020 – save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
5-6	Two more days in which to go on safari and see the incredible wildlife of Kenya. Your accommodation includes three free guided drives a day.			Take a look at these wildlife photography tips.
7	🚁Masai Mara to Nairobi (Book >) ✈Nairobi to Amboseli (Book >)	Dep: 10:30 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 11:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Ol Tukai Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Enjoy another helicopter safari back to Nairobi, then fly on to Amboseli National Park where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset.			Helicopter safaris can be bumpy – you may want to take motion sickness tablets.
8	Today you’ll embark on a safari with the magnificent Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.			Avoid rainy season (Mar-May) as clouds can obscure the view of Kilimanjaro.
9	✈Amboseli to Mombasa (Book >) 🚕Mombasa to Diani Beach (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: 17:00	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 19:00	🏨The Maji Beach Boutique (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Chill out in your beautiful hotel and on the stunning Diani Beach.			Learn some basic Swahili.
10-13	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			Homosexuality is, sadly, against the law in Kenya – be safe and be discreet.
14-15	🚕Diani Beach to Mombasa (Book >) ✈Mombasa to Nairobi (Book >) ✈Nairobi to home (Book >)	Dep: 11:00 Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: 13:00 Arr: Afternoon Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Kenya itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	You can also fly low cost, direct to Zanzibar from Mombasa.
Mid-range
1	✈To Nairobi (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Acacia Tree Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from most countries can apply for an eVisa.
2	Enjoy a relaxing day in Nairobi, visiting the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum (author of Out of Africa), the nearby the Kazuri Beads Factory and the collections in the National Archives.			Check out which immunisations you may need.
3	🚐Nairobi to Lake Nakuru (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 10:30	🏨Ziwa Bush Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Meet your guide and start your safari with a trip to Lake Nakuru in the Rift Valley.			Ask your safari operator to provide transport and guide only – it’s cheaper to book your own accommodation.
4	🚐Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨Keekorok Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A long drive (with some wildlife spotting along the way) to Keekorok Lodge. This is your base camp for safaris in the Masai Mara			Single-use plastic are banned in Kenya from 2020 – save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
5	Another day on which to go on safari and see the incredible wildlife of Kenya.			Take a look at these wildlife photography tips.
6	🚐Masai Mara to Amboseli	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Kibo Safari Camp (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A long drive (and some safari time) back to Nairobi and on to Amboseli National Park where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset.			Roads here can be bumpy – you may want to take motion sickness tablets.
7	Today you’ll embark on a safari with the magnificent Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.			Avoid rainy season (Mar-May) as clouds can obscure the view of Kilimanjaro.
8	✈Amboseli to Mombasa (Book >) 🚕Mombasa to Diani Beach (Info >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: 17:00	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 19:00	🏨Hotel The Sands at Chale Island (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Chill out in your beautiful hotel and on the stunning Diani Beach.			Learn some basic Swahili.
9-12	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			Homosexuality is, sadly, against the law in Kenya – be safe and be discreet.
13-14	🚕Diani Beach to Mombasa (Book >) ✈Mombasa to Nairobi (Book >) ✈Nairobi to home (Book >)	Dep: 11:00 Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: 13:00 Arr: Afternoon Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Kenya itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	You can also fly low cost, direct to Zanzibar from Mombasa.
Budget
1	✈To Nairobi (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Wildebeest Eco Camp(Book >)	See all hotels >
	Settle in to your hotel and rest after your journey.			Visitors from most countries can apply for an eVisa.
2	🚐Nairobi to Masai Mara (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Mara Explorers Camp
	Meet your guide and drive to the camp. This is your base camp for safaris in the Masai Mara (this safari company has scheduled departures and can arrange cheap accommodation for you – request Mara Explorers Camp).			Single-use plastic are banned in Kenya from 2020 – save the environment (and money) by using a filter water bottle and topping up from taps.
3-4	Two more days in which to go on safari and see the incredible wildlife of Kenya.			Check out which immunisations you may need.
5	🚐Masai Mara to Nairobi	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 15:30	🏨Wildebeest Eco Camp(Book >)	See all hotels >
	Enjoy your last safari in Masai Mara on the way back to Nairobi.			You can take a mutatu to and from Nairobi city centre – take a look at the route map here.
6	🚐Nairobi to Amboseli (Book >)	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Amboseli Eco Camp (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Meet your guide and relax on the drive through the Athi Plains to Amboseli National Park where you’ll arrive in plenty of time for sunset.			When booking your safari, ask to be dropped off at Emali train station at the end.
7	Today you’ll embark on a safari with the magnificent Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.			Avoid rainy season (Mar-May) as clouds can obscure the view of Kilimanjaro.
8	🚐Amboseli to Emali 🚄Emali to Mombasa (Book >) 🚕Mombasa to Diani Beach (Book >)	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 09:51 Dep: 14:30	Arr: 09:45 Arr: 14:18 Arr: 15:50	🏨Diani Backpackers (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Chill out on the stunning Diani Beach.			Book your transfer to and from Diani Beach directly with the hostel.
9-12	Spend a couple more days on the beach, or use this opportunity to visit the magnificent marine wildlife on a diving or snorkelling trip.			Homosexuality is, sadly, against the law in Kenya – be safe and be discreet.
13	🚕Mombasa to Diani Beach (Book >) 🚄Mombasa to Nairobi (Book >)	Dep: 06:15 Dep: 08:00	Arr: 07:35 Arr: 13:42	🏨Wildebeest Eco Camp(Book >)	See all hotels >
	In the afternoon visit the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum (author of Out of Africa), the nearby the Kazuri Beads Factory and the collections in the National Archives.			Tempted by Tanzania? Catch the bus from Mombasa to Dar-es-Salaam.
14-15	✈Nairobi to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this Kenya itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	You can also travel on to Kampala in Uganda, book the bus here.

PERU

Yes, Machu Picchu is incredible. Yes, Lake Titicaca is breathtaking. Yes, you absolutely should visit Peru. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your Peru travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈To Lima (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Swissôtel Lima (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Book your transfer from Lima airport here.
2	✈Lima to Cusco (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Garden of San Blas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Much to see in Lima, but don’t worry – if you don’t get to it all today you have more time at the end of your trip. You’ll be in the historic centre so stroll through Plaza de Armas, checking out the Palacio de Gobierno, San Francisco Monastery, the cathedral and nearby Santo Domingo convent and Desamparados Station. Transfer to the airport for your evening flight.			Most visitors to Peru don’t need a tourist visa.
3-4	Enjoy a couple of days seeing the sights in and around Cusco, starting with the beautiful Plaza de Armas. San Pedro Market is a great place to meet locals and buy souvenirs, as is the artisan district of San Blas. On the second day walk (slowly!) up to the impressive Sacsayhuaman ruins and get acquainted with the Incan empire at the Inca Museum.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
5	🚄Cusco to Aguas Calientes (Book >)	Dep: 08:25	Arr: 12:11	🏨Hotel Sumaq Machu Picchu (Book >)	See all hotels >
	The train journey to Aguas Calientes is spectacular – you’ll travel along the Sacred Valley, besides the mighty Urubamba river. Arrive in time for a first visit to the famous Machu Picchu.			Being so high up and close to the equator, a high SPF sunscreen is a must.
6	🚄Aguas Calientes Ollantaytambo 🚐Ollantaytambo to Cusco (Book >)	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 19:05	🏨Garden of San Blas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	More time today to see Machu Picchu, making sure you walk beyond the site to the Sun Gate and, in the other direction, to the Inca Bridge.			Try to get a seat on the left-hand side of the train from Cusco (and on the right back to Cusco).
7	🚄Cusco to Puno (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 23:30	🏨On train (Book >)
	Your luxury Peru Rail train (which only departs on Thursdays) will whisk you to ruins and high passes on the way to Puno.			The train package includes meals and drinks.
8	🚄Puno to Sarachocha	Dep: 06:00	Arr: 19:30	🏨On train
	Today you’ll visit Lake Titicaca, including the amazing man-made floating reed islands.			The islanders make lovely crafts – perfect souvenirs.
9	🚄Sarachocha to KM93 🚕KM93 to Colca Canyon	Dep: 06:45 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:30 Arr:	🏨Hotel Belmond Las Casitas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	On the way south you’ll stop off at the prehistoric Sumbay Caves. When you arrive at Colca Canyon take a trip to see the condor soaring over this impressive landscape.			Didn’t see any condor? Try again tomorrow at 7am from the Cruz Del Condor lookout.
10	🚕Colca Canyon to Arequipa (Book >) ✈Arequipa to Lima (Book >)	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 19:00	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 21:30	🏨Swissôtel Lima (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Enjoy an afternoon in the lovely city of Arequipa. The Plaza de Armas is perhaps the most impressive you’ll see. Along one flank of the square is the huge cathedral. Smaller, but intricately decorated, the Iglesia de la Compania is also worth a visit, as is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. If you’ve time visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to visit the preserved remains of the Ice Lady.			“Queso Helado” translates as “Frozen cheese” – but it tastes much better than it sounds and is well worth a try.
11-12	✈Lima to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon (next day)	What did you think of this Peru itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Time today to see those sights in Lima that you missed on day 2 (consider adding an extra day)
Mid-range
1	✈To Lima (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Tierra Viva Miraflores Mendiburu (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Book your transfer from Lima airport here.
2	✈Lima to Cusco (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Garden of San Blas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Much to see in Lima, but don’t worry – if you don’t get to it all today you have more time at the end of your trip. You’ll be in the historic centre so stroll through Plaza de Armas, checking out the Palacio de Gobierno, San Francisco Monastery, the cathedral and nearby Santo Domingo convent and Desamparados Station. Transfer to the airport for your evening flight.			Most visitors to Peru don’t need a tourist visa.
3-4	Enjoy a couple of days seeing the sights in and around Cusco, starting with the beautiful Plaza de Armas. San Pedro Market is a great place to meet locals and buy souvenirs, as is the artisan district of San Blas. On the second day walk (slowly!) up to the impressive Sacsayhuaman ruins and get acquainted with the Incan empire at the Inca Museum.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
5	🚐Cusco to KM 82	Dep: 05:30	Arr: 08:30	🏨Camping
	Book your Inca Trail hike a long time in advance (I recommend Inca Trail Reservations). An early start to commence your walk on which, before long, you’ll be passing breathtaking views of incredible Incan ruins.			Being so high up and close to the equator, a high SPF sunscreen is a must.
6-7	Day two of the hike begins with the arduous climb up to Dead Woman’s Pass. The campsite on the other side is both remote and spectacular. Day three starts with another short climb, but then passes ruins and has incredible views across to mountains and forested valleys. The highlight of today is the Wiñay Wayna ruin.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here (day two of the Inca Trail is particularly challenging) – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
8	🚄Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo 🚐Ollantaytambo to Cusco	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 19:05	🏨Garden of San Blas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Awake before sunrise and finish the Inca Trail hike at the Sun Gate. Summon a but more energy to continue on to the Inca Bridge and then enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu. The train journey to Ollantaytambo is a highlight and will be included in your tour.			Try to get a seat on the right-hand side of the train from Cusco for the best views.
9	🚄Cusco to Puno (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 17:50	🏨Hotel Tierra Vivo Puno Plaza (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Your luxury Peru Rail train (which only departs on three times a week) will whisk you through captivating landscapes on the way to Puno.			The train price includes meals and drinks.
10	Today visit Lake Titicaca, including the amazing man-made floating reed islands (arrange your tour in advance).			The islanders make lovely crafts – perfect souvenirs.
11	🚌Puno to Chivay (Book >)	Dep: 06:30	Arr: 12:15	🏨Casa Andina Standard Colca (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Today’s journey stops at the lakes of Lagunillas, the national reserve of Aguada Blanca and the 4,900 metre-high Andes Viewpoint. Chivay is in Colca Canyon and when you arrive you can go and look for condor or relax in the La Calera hot springs			Didn’t see any condor? Try again tomorrow at 7am from the Cruz Del Condor lookout.
12	🚌Chivay to Arequipa (Book >)	Dep: 13:15	Arr: 16:30	🏨Hotel Katari At Plaza De Armas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	More time to spot condor, go horse riding or enjoy a hike in Colca Canyon before driving on to Arequipa.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
13	🚌Arequipa to Nazca (Book >)	Dep: 15:30	Arr: 23:30	🏨Casa Hacienda Nasca Oasis (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas is perhaps the most impressive you’ll see. Along one flank of the square is the huge cathedral. Smaller, but intricately decorated, the Iglesia de la Compania is also worth a visit, as is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. If you’ve time visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to visit the preserved remains of the Ice Lady.			“Queso Helado” translates as “Frozen cheese” – but it tastes much better than it sounds and is well worth a try.
14	🚌Nazca to Lima (Book >)	Dep: 15:40	Arr: 22:21	🏨Tierra Viva Miraflores Mendiburu (Book >)	See all hotels >
	There’s one main reason you’re here: to see the mysterious Nazca Lines. Reserve your flight here.			The flights can cause upset stomachs – take motion sickness tablets if you need.
15-16	✈Lima to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon (next day)	What did you think of this Peru itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Time today to see those sights in Lima that you missed on day 2 (consider adding an extra day)
Budget
1	✈To Lima (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	🏨Orchid Hostels (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Book your transfer from Lima airport here.
2	✈Lima to Cusco (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Cusco Packers Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Much to see in Lima, but don’t worry – if you don’t get to it all today you have more time at the end of your trip. You’ll be in the historic centre so stroll through Plaza de Armas, checking out the Palacio de Gobierno, San Francisco Monastery, the cathedral and nearby Santo Domingo convent and Desamparados Station. Transfer to the airport for your evening flight.			Most visitors to Peru don’t need a tourist visa.
3-4	Enjoy a couple of days seeing the sights in and around Cusco, starting with the beautiful Plaza de Armas. San Pedro Market is a great place to meet locals and buy souvenirs, as is the artisan district of San Blas. On the second day walk (slowly!) up to the impressive Sacsayhuaman ruins and get acquainted with the Incan empire at the Inca Museum.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
5	🚐Cusco to KM 82	Dep: 05:30	Arr: 08:30	🏨Camping
	Book your Inca Trail hike a long time in advance (I recommend Inca Trail Reservations). An early start to commence your walk on which, before long, you’ll be passing breathtaking views of incredible Incan ruins.			Being so high up and close to the equator, a high SPF sunscreen is a must.
6-7	Day two of the hike begins with the arduous climb up to Dead Woman’s Pass. The campsite on the other side is both remote and spectacular. Day three starts with another short climb, but then passes ruins and has incredible views across to mountains and forested valleys. The highlight of today is the Wiñay Wayna ruin.			Altitude sickness is a real risk here (day two of the Inca Trail is particularly challenging) – take it slow and recognise the symptoms.
8	🚄Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo 🚐Ollantaytambo to Cusco	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 19:05	🏨Cusco Packers Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Awake before sunrise and finish the Inca Trail hike at the Sun Gate. Summon a but more energy to continue on to the Inca Bridge and then enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu. The train journey to Ollantaytambo is a highlight and will be included in your tour.			Try to get a seat on the right-hand side of the train from Cusco for the best views.
9	🚌Cusco to Puno (Book >)	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 15:30	🏨Cozy Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Enjoy the captivating landscapes on the way to Puno.			Take a look at these useful Peru bus travel tips.
10	Today visit Lake Titicaca, including the amazing man-made floating reed islands (arrange your tour in advance).			The islanders make lovely crafts – perfect souvenirs.
11	🚌Puno to Chivay (Book >)	Dep: 06:30	Arr: 12:15	🏨Colca River (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Today’s journey stops at the lakes of Lagunillas, the national reserve of Aguada Blanca and the 4,900 metre-high Andes Viewpoint. Chivay is in Colca Canyon and when you arrive you can go and look for condor or relax in the La Calera hot springs			Didn’t see any condor? Try again tomorrow at 7am from the Cruz Del Condor lookout.
12	🚌Chivay to Arequipa (Book >)	Dep: 13:15	Arr: 16:30	🏨Wild Rover Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	More time to spot condor, go horse riding or enjoy a hike in Colca Canyon before driving on to Arequipa.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
13	🚌Arequipa to Nazca (Book >)	Dep: 15:30	Arr: 23:30	🏨Nasca Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas is perhaps the most impressive you’ll see. Along one flank of the square is the huge cathedral. Smaller, but intricately decorated, the Iglesia de la Compania is also worth a visit, as is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. If you’ve time visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to visit the preserved remains of the Ice Lady.			“Queso Helado” translates as “Frozen cheese” – but it tastes much better than it sounds and is well worth a try.
14	🚌Nazca to Lima (Book >)	Dep: 15:40	Arr: 22:21	🏨Pariwana Hostel Lima(Book >)	See all hotels >
	There’s one main reason you’re here: to see the mysterious Nazca Lines. Reserve your flight here.			The flights can cause upset stomachs – take motion sickness tablets if you need.
15-16	✈Lima to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon (next day)	What did you think of this Peru itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Time today to see those sights in Lima that you missed on day 2 (your hostel is located in a different area to day 1).

NEW ZEALAND NORTH

Picture-perfect volcanoes, boiling geysers, pristine beaches, magical caves and much more awaits you in New Zealand’s awesome North Island. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your New Zealand North travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈To Auckland (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel DeBrett (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you’ve left your luggage at the hotel, head to the docks and take the ferry to Waiheke Island for a vineyard visit, or Rangitoto island for some excellent hiking or sea kayaking. When you get back head up the Sky Tower.			If you’re from a visa waiver country you don’t need to apply until you arrive in New Zealand
4	🚗Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 12:00	🏨Driving Creek Villas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Set off after rush hour and, once you arrive in Coromandel, continue on to Hot Water Beach where you can dig a pool in the sand and luxuriate in the hot water. Nearby is the picturesque Cathedral Cove. Back at the villa, leave the car and walk up the road to embark on the Driving Creek Railway.			You must park in the direction of the traffic flow in New Zealand, otherwise you’ll get a fine.
5	🚗Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua 🚗Rotorua to Taupo	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 19:30	🏨Tauhara Sunrise Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Head south to steaming, sulphurous Rotorua. Here you can see geysers and hot mud pools, as well as start getting to know Māori culture. On the drive down to Taupo, stop off at Kerosene Creek where you can bathe in a naturally-heated stream.			Get changed into swimming things in one of the Rotorua bathrooms – there aren’t any facilities at Kerosene Creek (which is free to enter).
6	🚗Taupo to Napier	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 12:15	🏨Mangapapa (Book >)	See all hotels >
	In the morning visit dramatic Huka Falls, then journey to the wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. You’ll arrive in time to enjoy a tour of the vineyards.			Give yourself plenty of time to get between destinations – you’ll want to stop frequently for beautiful views.
7	🚗Napier to Wellington	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Edgewater Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Te Papa is worth the drive to Wellington alone. Once you’ve enjoyed a couple of hours at this museum, you have plenty more to see, including a walk along the charming waterfront to Oriental Bay, a Weta Studios tour, a ride on the cable from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn. Cuba Street comes alive at night and is a good place to hunt down a restaurant.			Fuel stations are few between towns and cities – fill up before setting off.
8	🚗Wellington to New Plymouth	Dep: 14:00	Arr: 19:00	🏨Ahu Ahu Beach Villas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	No doubt you ran out of time to see the sights yesterday, so there’s more time to see more of Wellington today before the long drive to the Ahu Ahu Beach Villas near New Plymouth.			The Department of Conversation provides a wealth of info on hiking.
9	🚗New Plymouth to Tongariro	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 19:00	🏨Chateau Tongariro (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Get up early and head for the hiking trails around the breathtaking Mt Taranaki volcano. In the afternoon take Highway 3 to Midhirst, then the Highway 43 through the gorgeous scenery to Tongariro.			The Tongariro Visitor Centre can store your luggage for a small fee.
10	Book your shuttle bus from Whakapapa Village to and from the Tongariro Crossing in advance. Considered one of the best hikes in the world, the Tongariro Crossing requires a full day and a decent level of fitness.			Keep an eye on the weather before setting out and time your walk accordingly.
11	🚗Tongariro to Waitomo	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Waitomo Boutique Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You are in for a real treat today. Black Water Rafting isn’t as scary as it sounds, in fact it involves a sedate float on tubes through caves adorned with constellations of glow worms.			Invest in a dry bag or waterproof camera to try and capture images of the incredible glow worm caves.
12	🚗Waitomo to Piha 🚗Piha to Paihia	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 18:00	🏨Chalet Romantica (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Break up the long drive to Kerikeri with a stop at amazing Piha Beach, setting of the film The Piano and a favourite for surfers.			You’re likely to encounter some Māori language. Learn a few basic words here.
13	Take to the water in the magnificent Bay of Islands on a kayak tour (where you also have the option of staying overnight, camping by the beach).			Make sure that your insurance covers you for the various adventures sports on offer here.
14	🚗Paihia to Cape Reinga 🚗Cape Reinga to Waipoua Lodge	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 18:00	🏨Waipoua Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua is at the northernmost tip of New Zealand and is where Maori spirits begin their final journey. It offers incredible views of the crashing sea from the lighthouse. On your way to/from here you may want to have a go at sandboarding at the Te Paki dunes.			You can hire boards at the Te Paki dunes, but be sure to shop around for the best price and best condition equipment.
15	🚗Waipoua Lodge to Auckland	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Hotel DeBrett (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Back to where your adventure began and plenty of time today to see anything you missed on days 2-3.			The red city circuit bus offers a free hop on hop off service around Auckland city centre every 10 minutes.
16-17	✈Auckland to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this New Zealand North itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Book your shuttle to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Auckland (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Haka Hotel Suites (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you’ve left your luggage at the hotel, head to the docks and take the ferry to Waiheke Island for a vineyard visit, or Rangitoto island for some excellent hiking or sea kayaking. When you get back head up the Sky Tower.			If you’re from a visa waiver country you don’t need to apply until you arrive in New Zealand
4	🚗Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula (Hire car >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 12:00	🏨Andrea’s (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Set off after rush hour and, once you arrive in Coromandel, continue on to Hot Water Beach where you can dig a pool in the sand and luxuriate in the hot water. Nearby is the picturesque Cathedral Cove. Drive on to Driving Creek for the Driving Creek Railway.			You must park in the direction of the traffic flow in New Zealand, otherwise you’ll get a fine.
5	🚗Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua 🚗Rotorua to Taupo	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 19:30	🏨The Reef Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Head south to steaming, sulphurous Rotorua. Here you can see geysers and hot mud pools, as well as start getting to know Māori culture. On the drive down to Taupo, stop off at Kerosene Creek where you can bathe in a naturally-heated stream.			Get changed into swimming things in one of the Rotorua bathrooms – there aren’t any facilities at Kerosene Creek (which is free to enter).
6	🚗Taupo to Napier	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 12:15	🏨The Crown Hotel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	In the morning visit dramatic Huka Falls, then journey to the wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. You’ll arrive in time to enjoy a tour of the vineyards.			Give yourself plenty of time to get between destinations – you’ll want to stop frequently for beautiful views.
7	🚗Napier to Wellington	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨U Residence Hotel Wellington (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Te Papa is worth the drive to Wellington alone. Once you’ve enjoyed a couple of hours at this museum, you have plenty more to see, including a walk along the charming waterfront to Oriental Bay, a Weta Studios tour, a ride on the cable from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn. Cuba Street comes alive at night and is a good place to hunt down a restaurant.			Fuel stations are few between towns and cities – fill up before setting off.
8	🚗Wellington to New Plymouth	Dep: 14:00	Arr: 19:00	🏨One Burgess Hill (Book >)	See all hotels >
	No doubt you ran out of time to see the sights yesterday, so there’s more time to see more of Wellington today before the long drive to the Ahu Ahu Beach Villas near New Plymouth.			The Department of Conversation provides a wealth of info on hiking.
9	🚗New Plymouth to Tongariro	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 18:30	🏨Chateau Tongariro (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Get up early and head for the hiking trails around the breathtaking Mt Taranaki volcano. In the afternoon take Highway 3 to Midhirst, then the Highway 43 through the gorgeous scenery to Tongariro.			The Tongariro Visitor Centre can store your luggage for a small fee.
10	Book your shuttle bus from Whakapapa Village to and from the Tongariro Crossing in advance. Considered one of the best hikes in the world, the Tongariro Crossing requires a full day and a decent level of fitness.			Keep an eye on the weather before setting out and time your walk accordingly.
11	🚗Tongariro to Waitomo	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You are in for a real treat today. Black Water Rafting isn’t as scary as it sounds, in fact it involves a sedate float on tubes through caves adorned with constellations of glow worms.			Invest in a dry bag or waterproof camera to try and capture images of the incredible glow worm caves.
12	🚗Waitomo to Piha 🚗Piha to Paihia	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:30 Arr: 18:00	🏨Abri Apartments (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Break up the long drive to Kerikeri with a stop at amazing Piha Beach, setting of the film The Piano and a favourite for surfers.			You’re likely to encounter some Māori language. Learn a few basic words here.
13	Take to the water in the magnificent Bay of Islands on a kayak tour (where you also have the option of staying overnight, camping by the beach).			Make sure that your insurance covers you for the various adventures sports on offer here.
14	🚗Paihia to Cape Reinga 🚗Cape Reinga to Whangarei	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 12:00 Arr: 18:00	🏨Lupton Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua is at the northernmost tip of New Zealand and is where Maori spirits begin their final journey. It offers incredible views of the crashing sea from the lighthouse. On your way to/from here you may want to have a go at sandboarding at the Te Paki dunes.			You can hire boards at the Te Paki dunes, but be sure to shop around for the best price and best condition equipment.
15	🚗Waipoua Lodge to Auckland	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Haka Hotel Suites (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Back to where your adventure began and plenty of time today to see anything you missed on days 2-3.			The red city circuit bus offers a free hop on hop off service around Auckland city centre every 10 minutes.
16-17	✈Auckland to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this New Zealand North itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Book your shuttle to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Auckland (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2-3			Arr: Morning	🏨Haka Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you’ve left your luggage at the hotel, head to the docks and take the ferry to Waiheke Island for a vineyard visit, or Rangitoto island for some excellent hiking or sea kayaking. When you get back head up the Sky Tower.			If you’re from a visa waiver country you don’t need to apply until you arrive in New Zealand
4	🚌Auckland to Thames 🚌Thames to Whitianga (Book >)	Dep: 07:50 Dep: 09:55	Arr: 09:40 Arr: 12:10	🏨Turtle Cove (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Once you arrive in Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula, take the shuttle to Hot Water Beach where you can dig a pool in the sand and luxuriate in the hot water. Continue on to the picturesque Cathedral Cove.			The shuttle service is a small company, so be sure to book in advance (it’s also cheaper when you travel with more people).
5	🚌Whitianga to Thames 🚌Thames to Tauranga (Book >)	Dep: 12:25 Dep: 14:20	Arr: 14:00 Arr: 16:10	🏨ArtHouse Accommodation(Book >)	See all hotels >
	Journey to the lovely seaside town of Tauranga.			There is a bus to Rotorua today at 17:10 if you don’t fancy an early start tomorrow.
6	🚌Tauranga to Rotorua (Book >) 🚌Rotorua to Taupo (Book >)	Dep: 07:10 Dep: 13:00	Arr: 08:35 Arr: 14:00	🏨Finlay Jacks Backpackers (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Head south to steaming, sulphurous Rotorua. Here you can see geysers and hot mud pools, as well as start getting to know Māori culture. In the afternoon visit dramatic Huka Falls near Taupo.			If you don’t want to pay to see the Te Puia hot springs and geysers, there are plenty to see around town for free.
7	🚌Taupo to Napier (Book >)	Dep: 13:05	Arr: 15:10	🏨Toad Hall Backpackers (Book >)	See all hotels >
	On arrival into Napier hire a bicycle and visit some Hawke’s Bay vineyards.			Church Road and Mission Estate wineries are just 16km away.
8	🚌Napier to Wellington (Book >)	Dep: 07:45	Arr: 13:30	🏨YHA Wellington City (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Te Papa is worth the journey to Wellington alone. Once you’ve enjoyed a couple of hours at this museum, you have plenty more to see, including a walk along the charming waterfront to Oriental Bay, a Weta Studios tour, a ride on the cable from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn. Cuba Street comes alive at night and is a good place to hunt down a restaurant.			If you’re in Wellington at the weekend then the food market off of Cuba Street offers great food on a budget.
9	🚌Wellington to National Park (Book >) 🚐National Park to Whakapapa Village (Book >)	Dep: 07:45 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 13:19 Arr: 14:15	🏨Mangatepopo Hut (Book >)
	Once you arrive into National Park leave the bulk of your luggage with your hostel for night 11, then take the shuttle to Whakapapa Village and begin the Tongrariro Crossing, starting with a walk to Mangatepopo.			The Tongariro Visitor Centre can store your luggage for a small fee.
11	🚐Ketetahi to National Park (Book >)	Dep: 14:30	Arr: 15:00	🏨Plateau Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Today you’ll continue on the famous Tongariro Crossing. Book your return shuttle in advance.			Wear plenty of sunscreen – the sun is strong in NZ.
12	🚌National Park to Waitomo Township (Book >)	Dep: 13:20	Arr: 15:50	🏨YHA Waitomo Juno Hall (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You are in for a real treat today. Black Water Rafting isn’t as scary as it sounds, in fact it involves a sedate float on tubes through caves adorned with constellations of glow worms. The last tour leaves at 16:00.			Consider becoming a YHA member to save 10% on each YHA stay.
13	🚌Waitomo to Auckland (Book >) 🚌Auckland to Paihia (Book >)	Dep: 11:47 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 14:45 Arr: 21:29	🏨Haka Lodge (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Leave your luggage at the bus station and take in another of Auckland’s sights.			You’re likely to encounter some Māori language. Learn a few basic words here.
14	Take to the water in the magnificent Bay of Islands on a kayak tour (where you also have the option of staying overnight, camping by the beach).			Make sure that your insurance covers you for the various adventures sports on offer here.
15	Book a day trip to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua at the northernmost tip of New Zealand and where Maori spirits begin their final journey. On the way you’ll stop off at Ninety Mile Beach.			You can hire boards at the Te Paki dunes, but be sure to shop around for the best price and best condition equipment.
16-17	🚌Paihia to Auckland (Book >) ✈Auckland to home (Book >)	Dep: 10:15 Dep: Evening	Arr: 14:40 Arr: Morning (next day)	What did you think of this New Zealand North itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Book your shuttle to the airport.

CAMBODIA

A lot of people visit Cambodia as part of a longer trip, but there’s so many phenomenal sights here that it justifies its own two-week holiday . Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget. Here’s your Cambodia travel plan:

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Luxury
1	✈To Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨La Rose Suites (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll arrive in the evening, so take some time to relax after the long flight.
3	Ease in to life in Cambodia with a gentle day of sightseeing in the capital. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are peaceful and magnificent buildings worthy of a couple of hours of your time. Next door is the National Museum of Cambodia, full of ancient Angkorian artefacts. End the day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.			Get your eVisa for Cambodia online here.
4	🚌Phnom Penh to Kratie (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 16:30	🏨Rajabori Villas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll arrive into Kratie in plenty of time to see the sun set over the Mekong on Koh Trong Island – the perfect start to a visit of this relaxing location.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
5	Kayak or cruise along the river to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. In the afternoon admire the Kratie’s French-era architecture and tour the temples in and around town.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
6	🚌Kratie to Phnom Penh (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Kep (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 18:30	🏨Knai Bang Chatt Resort (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A looong day of travel, rewarded with ending at the spectacular beaches of gorgeous Kep.			Try to book your bus in advance during busy periods.
7-8	Spend a couple of days (or more) on the beach. Take the 20-minute boat ride to tranquil Rabbit Island and, if you get bored of the sand, visit a pepper farm or the nearby Bokor Hill Station.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
9	🚌Kep to Phnom Penh (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (Book >)	Dep: 07:30Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:15Arr: 17:30	🏨Shinta Mani Angkor (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Say goodbye to the beach and hello to another day of bus travel. But at the end of it you’ll be in bustling Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor Wat. Buy your multi-day ticket after 5pm and it will only count from the next day.			Miss the connection to Siem Reap? No problem, buses depart until 18:00.
10-11	The Angkor Archaeological Park covers 400 square kilometres, so hire a car and driver to explore the site. Must-sees include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom. Other places for your list are the Terrace of the Leper King, Baphuon, Srah Srang, Preah Ko (Sacred Bull), Baksei Chamkrong, Elephant Terrace, Pre Rup, East Mebon and Preah Khan. At the end of the day go to Phnom Bakheng for sunset.			Ask your hotel to help arrange a car and driver.
12	✈Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨La Rose Suites (Book >)	See all hotels >
	More time to see more temples, or any that you may have missed out on during days 10-11.			Continuing to Laos? Book your bus from Siem Reap to Don Det (4000 Islands) here (bus departs at 08:00).
13-14	✈Phnom Penh to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening (next day)	What did you think of this Cambodia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Take some culinary inspiration home with you on a food tour.
Mid-range
1	✈To Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨IRoHa Garden (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll arrive in the evening, so take some time to relax after the long flight.
3	Ease in to life in Cambodia with a gentle day of sightseeing in the capital. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are peaceful and magnificent buildings worthy of a couple of hours of your time. Next door is the National Museum of Cambodia, full of ancient Angkorian artefacts. End the day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.			Get your eVisa for Cambodia online here.
4	🚌Phnom Penh to Kratie (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 16:30	🏨Rajabori Villas (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll arrive into Kratie in plenty of time to see the sun set over the Mekong on Koh Trong Island – the perfect start to a visit of this relaxing location.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
5	Kayak or cruise along the river to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. In the afternoon admire the Kratie’s French-era architecture and tour the temples in and around town.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
6	🚌Kratie to Phnom Penh (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Kep (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 18:30	🏨Samanea Beach (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A looong day of travel, rewarded with ending at the spectacular beaches of gorgeous Kep.			Try to book your bus in advance during busy periods.
7-8	Spend a couple of days (or more) on the beach. Take the 20-minute boat ride to tranquil Rabbit Island and, if you get bored of the sand, visit a pepper farm or the nearby Bokor Hill Station.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
9	🚌Kep to Phnom Penh (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (Book >)	Dep: 07:30Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:15Arr: 17:30	🏨Golden Temple (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Say goodbye to the beach and hello to another day of bus travel. But at the end of it you’ll be in bustling Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor Wat. Buy your multi-day ticket after 5pm and it will only count from the next day.			Miss the connection to Siem Reap? No problem, buses depart until 18:00.
10-11	The Angkor Archaeological Park covers 400 square kilometres, so hire a car and driver to explore the site. Must-sees include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom. Other places for your list are the Terrace of the Leper King, Baphuon, Srah Srang, Preah Ko (Sacred Bull), Baksei Chamkrong, Elephant Terrace, Pre Rup, East Mebon and Preah Khan. At the end of the day go to Phnom Bakheng for sunset.			Ask your hotel to help arrange a car and driver.
12	✈Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨IRoHa Garden (Book >)	See all hotels >
	More time to see more temples, or any that you may have missed out on during days 10-11.			Continuing to Laos? Book your bus from Siem Reap to Don Det (4000 Islands) here (bus departs at 08:00).
13-14	✈Phnom Penh to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening (next day)	What did you think of this Cambodia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Take some culinary inspiration home with you on a food tour.
Budget
1	✈To Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨Envoy Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll arrive in the evening, so take some time to relax after the long flight.
3	Ease in to life in Cambodia with a gentle day of sightseeing in the capital. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are peaceful and magnificent buildings worthy of a couple of hours of your time. Next door is the National Museum of Cambodia, full of ancient Angkorian artefacts. End the day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.			Get your eVisa for Cambodia online here.
4	🚌Phnom Penh to Kratie (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 16:30	🏨Hotel River Dolphin (Book >)	See all hotels >
	You’ll arrive into Kratie in plenty of time to see the sun set over the Mekong on Koh Trong Island – the perfect start to a visit of this relaxing location.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
5	Kayak or cruise along the river to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. In the afternoon admire the Kratie’s French-era architecture and tour the temples in and around town.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
6	🚌Kratie to Phnom Penh (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Kep (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 18:30	🏨Khmer Hands Bungalows (Book >)	See all hotels >
	A looong day of travel, rewarded with ending at the spectacular beaches of gorgeous Kep.			Try to book your bus in advance during busy periods.
7-8	Spend a couple of days (or more) on the beach. Take the 20-minute boat ride to tranquil Rabbit Island and, if you get bored of the sand, visit a pepper farm or the nearby Bokor Hill Station.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
9	🚌Kep to Phnom Penh (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (Book >)	Dep: 07:30Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:15Arr: 17:30	🏨Lub d(Book >)	See all hotels >
	Say goodbye to the beach and hello to another day of bus travel. But at the end of it you’ll be in bustling Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor Wat. Buy your multi-day ticket after 5pm and it will only count from the next day.			Miss the connection to Siem Reap? No problem, buses depart until 18:00.
10-11	Must-sees here include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom. Other places for your list are the Terrace of the Leper King, Baphuon, Srah Srang, Preah Ko (Sacred Bull), Baksei Chamkrong, Elephant Terrace, Pre Rup, East Mebon and Preah Khan. At the end of the day go to Phnom Bakheng for sunset.			Hire a bicycle, take your time and enjoy sedate, peaceful journeys around the site. If you want to go further then a tuk-tuk can be good value (ask the hostel for advice).
12	✈Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Envoy Hostel (Book >)	See all hotels >
	More time to see more temples, or any that you may have missed out on during days 10-11.			Continuing to Laos? Book your bus from Siem Reap to Don Det (4000 Islands) here (bus departs at 08:00).
13-14	✈Phnom Penh to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening (next day)	What did you think of this Cambodia itinerary? Leave your feedback below
	Take some culinary inspiration home with you on a food tour.