Ethiopia is an Untravelled Path just waiting to be explored, and it’s the perfect destination for any adventurous traveller. With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife, Ethiopia offers a truly unique experience. From the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the stunning landscapes of the Simien Mountains, there is something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tribal markets of the Omo Valley, sit amongst the Gelada Monkey’s of the Simien Mountains, or trek through the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places on Earth. And let’s not forget about the hyena men of the medieval town of Harar where you’ll have the opportunity to be his assistant as he continues the almost century old tradition of feeding them. Ethiopia is an intrepid country that truly will leave you in awe time after time.
Here we take you on a virtual tour of all the incredible highlights you would see if you joined us on The Extreme Ethiopia Experience.
Dallol sulphur fields in the Danakil Depression which is renowned as be the hottest place on earth.The active lava lake at Erta Ale in the Danakil Depression.The Gheralta mountains of Tigray known for it’s hiking and 120 mountain rock-strewn churches.The obelisk in Axum. Axum allegedly houses the original Ark of the Covenant.A male Gelada monkey in the Ethiopian Highlands on the Simien Mountains.Stunning panoramic view of the vast Simien Mountain range.The Fasil Ghebbi castle, also known as the Royal Enclosure in Gondar.Lalibela is known for its distinctive rock-cut churches dating from the 12th century.Old world meets new as two women check their phone by one of Lalibela’s most famous churches.Dorze tribal village, note their houses are shaped like elephants heads.Women from the Hamer Tribe look on as a Bull Jumping ceremony gets underway in the Omo Valley.Hamer tribesmen prepare the herd for the Bull Jumping.Hamer tribeswomen chant and dance as part of the ceremony.Village in the Omo Valley.Hamer tribeswoman at the Turmi Market in Turmi, Southern Ethiopia.A striking Hamer lady holding her hat/bowl. Note her neckrings which represent the number of wives her husband has with her being the most recent. Multiple wives are common practice in the Omo Valley.Camel market outside of Harar near the eastern border of Ethiopia.Entrance to the medieval medina of Harar.The colourful Harar market which feels like it’s not changed in centuries.Hyena-man of Harar feeding one spotted hyena which was originally documented in the early 1950s.An injera sharing plate, the staple diet of Ethiopia.The home of Ethiopia, no trip to Ethiopia is complete with out an Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
So if you really like to get under the skin of a country and enjoy a truly authentic intrepid adventure then Ethiopia is definitely the country for you. Have a look at all our Ethiopian Experiences here and hopefully, you’ll join us on an adventure of discovery in Ethiopia. If you want to find out more please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Spring is often one of the best periods to travel in Europe. Avoiding the peak season crowds, stifling hot weather is replaced by the spring blossom and crucially you don’t have to pay the increasingly expensive summer airfares. So we used our favourite tool for sourcing some of the best value flights in Europe this spring – the sky scanner “Everywhere” function which is a dream for those of us you are inflicted with severe wanderlust!
Now we used London as the departure city as that’s where most of our guests fly from but you can replace this with the airport that suits you, then in the destination you simply put “Everywhere”. Finally, for the best prices flexibility is key so in the Departure and Return Date boxes you select “Flexible dates”, the month you are looking to travel and then search….. then like magic you’ll find all the places you can travel starting with the cheapest! So we picked out our favourite 10 destinations you could fly to this spring for under £40.
Spain – £22 return
Spain is an enchanting destination that truly shines in the spring. With its diverse landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and delightful weather, Spain offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. In spring, the country comes to life with blooming flowers, sunny days, and pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring. From the stunning beaches of Costa del Sol to the breathtaking architecture of Barcelona and the romantic streets of Seville, Spain is a visual feast for the senses. Indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, immerse yourself in colourful festivals, and witness the passion of flamenco dancing. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast, Spain in spring will capture your heart and leave you longing for more.
Norway – £25 return
Norway is a captivating country that truly comes alive in the springtime. With its picturesque landscapes, majestic fjords, and vibrant cities, Norway offers a unique and unforgettable experience for guests. In spring, the country is transformed into a wonderland of blooming flowers, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls. Explore the iconic Geirangerfjord, hike through the breathtaking Norwegian countryside, or embark on a thrilling dog sledding adventure. Witness the mesmerising Northern Lights, visit charming coastal towns like Bergen, and indulge in delicious seafood delicacies. Norway in spring promises awe-inspiring natural beauty, thrilling outdoor activities, and a rich cultural heritage that will leave you spellbound.
Portugal – £26 return
Portugal is a captivating destination that truly shines in the springtime. With its stunning coastline, historic cities, and warm hospitality, Portugal offers a delightful experience for travellers. In spring, the country bursts with vibrant colours as flowers bloom and the sun shines bright. Explore the charming streets of Lisbon, visit the enchanting castles of Sintra, or relax on the golden beaches of the Algarve. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture, indulge in delicious seafood, and savour the world-renowned wines of the Douro Valley. With pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, Portugal in spring is the perfect time to discover the country’s beauty and charm.
Denmark – £26 return
Denmark is a delightful destination that offers a unique charm in the springtime. With its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, Denmark is a must-visit for visitors. In spring, the country comes alive with blooming flowers, lush greenery, and longer days. Explore the colourful streets of Copenhagen, visit the historic castles of North Zealand, or cycle along the stunning coastal routes. Experience the Danish concept of “hygge” as you cozy up in charming cafes and enjoy delicious pastries. From the iconic Nyhavn to the fairy-tale-like town of Odense, Denmark in spring promises beauty, tranquility, and a warm welcome from its friendly locals.
Poland – £27 return
Poland is a captivating destination that truly shines in the springtime. With its rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes, Poland offers a delightful experience for tourists. In spring, the country blossoms with colorful flowers, and the weather becomes mild and pleasant. Explore the charming streets of Krakow, visit the historic sites of Warsaw, or wander through the picturesque countryside of Zakopane. Immerse yourself in Polish culture by attending traditional festivals and enjoying the local cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the medieval architecture of Wroclaw or discovering the tranquility of the Masurian Lakes, Poland in spring offers a perfect blend of beauty, history, and adventure.
Italy – £28 return
Italy is an enchanting destination that truly comes alive in the springtime. With its iconic landmarks, world-renowned cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, Italy offers a magical experience for travellers. In spring, the country blooms with vibrant flowers, and the weather becomes pleasantly warm. Explore the historic streets of Rome, marvel at the art in Florence, or cruise along the picturesque Amalfi Coast. Indulge in the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine, from gelato to pasta, and sip on fine wines in charming vineyards. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii or strolling through the romantic canals of Venice, Italy in spring is a sensory delight that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Romania – £30 return
Romania is a hidden gem that truly shines in the springtime. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Romania offers a truly memorable holiday. In spring, the country bursts with colourful blooms, and the weather becomes mild and inviting. Explore the charming streets of Bucharest, visit the medieval castles of Transylvania, or hike through the picturesque Carpathian Mountains. Immerse yourself in Romanian folklore and traditions, and indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting villages of Maramures or discovering the beauty of the Danube Delta, Romania in spring offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic experiences.
Montenegro – £35 return
Montenegro is a hidden paradise that is a must-visit destination in the springtime. With its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich history, Montenegro offers a captivating adventure for those that visit. In spring, the country comes alive with blooming flowers, and the weather is pleasantly mild. Explore the charming coastal towns of Kotor and Budva, marvel at the magnificent fjords, or hike through the majestic Durmitor National Park. Immerse yourself in the local culture, visit historic sites like the Ostrog Monastery, and savour the delectable Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re relaxing on the sandy beaches of the Adriatic Sea or exploring the stunning Lovcen National Park, Montenegro in spring is a true paradise waiting to be discovered.
Croatia – £37 return
Croatia is a dream destination that truly comes alive in the springtime. With its stunning coastline, historic cities, and natural beauty, Croatia offers an enchanting trips for all that visit. In spring, the country blooms with vibrant flowers, and the weather is perfect for outdoor exploration. Discover the captivating old town of Dubrovnik, stroll along the picturesque streets of Split, or relax on the pristine beaches of the Dalmatian coast. Explore the stunning national parks like Plitvice Lakes and Krka, hike through the breathtaking mountains, and indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re sailing the Adriatic Sea or visiting the charming islands of Hvar and Korcula, Croatia in spring is a paradise waiting to be explored. You can also easily combine it with Bosnia and Montenegro.
Turkey – £39 return
Turkey is a captivating destination that is best experienced in the springtime. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, Turkey offers an unforgettable adventure. In spring, the country bursts with blooming tulips and mild temperatures, making it the perfect time to explore. Immerse yourself in the vibrant streets of Istanbul, marvel at the ancient ruins of Ephesus, or relax on the breathtaking beaches of Antalya. Indulge in the mouthwatering Turkish cuisine, visit the awe-inspiring Cappadocia with its unique rock formations, or embark on a hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites of Troy or pampering yourself in a luxurious hammam, Turkey in spring is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
If you’re interested in travelling last minute then have a look at our spring adventures and maybe you can combine them with one of the great value flights listed. Remember we can always tailor trips which can be particularly good value for private groups. If you have any questions or would like to book then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Montenegro is truly one of Europe’s most picturesque countries where you can experience the mountains and the sea within a couple of hours of each other. It’s a real nugget of a country that simply has to be visited and explored so we thought we take you on a visual journey of discovery to show exactly why you should join this summer.
The beautiful landscape of Tara Canyon. You would see this on the Mini Montenegro, White Water Rafting & Montenegro experiences.The serene setting of the Black Lake in Durmitor National Park. You would see this on the Mini Montenegro, White Water Rafting & Montenegro experiences.The exhilarating thrill of White Water Rafting on the Tara on our White Water Rafting Experience.The UNESCO-protected Lake Skadar, near Rijeka Crnojevica. You would see this on all our Montenegro experiences.The Mausoleum panoramic viewpoint in Lovcen National Park. You would see this on all our Montenegro experiences.Cathedral of St Tryphon in Kotor’s magnificent Venetian Old Town. You would see this on all our Montenegro experiences.Climb the unique Kotor Old Town walls for breathtaking views of the bay. You would see this on all our Montenegro experiences.Perast and the legendary Lady of The Rock which you would visit on our Perast Sunset Cruise on all our Montenegro Experiences.Sunset at Tivat’s stylish Yacht Club, an optional visit is possible on all of our Montenegro Experiences for those wanting some sun.Budva’s Old Town which you visit on our Montenegro Experience.Crystal clear waters of the Adriatic which you can enjoy on our Montenegro Experience.Sveti Stefan Island is now a stylish luxury hotel where you can have lunch where you can stay or just have lunch. You get to take in this view on all our Montenegro Experiences.
Pictures always give you a good idea of what you can expect from a destination but videos give you a real feel of a destination so we thought we’d add a couple for those really contemplating joining us this summer.
This Bird’s Eye View shows you exactly what to expect from our Mini Montenegro, White Water Rafting & Montenegro experiences.For those who love nature and the outdoors our Mountains to Sea Experience is ideal. This video shows you what you can expect from the Albanian leg of the trip before your last 3 nights travelling by Lake Skadar, through Lovcen National park to Kotor Bay.
So if we’ve managed to tempt on a Montenegro adventure then have a browse through our awesome experiences and if you see one that fits then don’t hesitate to get in contact with us. We have some great deals on at the moment.
Nestled deep within the lush rainforests of Colombia, Calanoa Lodge stands as a hidden gem, offering an extraordinary escape into the heart of the Amazon. This eco-lodge seamlessly blends sustainable practices with authentic cultural experiences, creating a truly magical retreat for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Join me as I recount my unforgettable stay at Calanoa Lodge, where every moment was filled with awe-inspiring beauty and immersion in the wonders of the Colombian Amazon.
Arriving at Calanoa Lodge felt like stepping into another world. Surrounded by towering trees, vibrant flora, and the symphony of exotic birds, I was instantly captivated by the lodge’s tranquil ambiance. The staff welcomed me with warm smiles and genuine hospitality, making me feel right at home. The lodge’s commitment to sustainability was evident from the beginning, with solar-powered electricity, rainwater harvesting systems, and a focus on preserving the surrounding environment.
Accommodation at Calanoa Lodge was a unique experience in itself as the rooms are actually “wall-less” with only very sturdy, mosquito and insect-proof firm netting to keep you safe. They are each positioned to ensure your privacy is never compromised. At the same time, they allow you to truly hear the nighttime spine-tingling sounds of the jungle. Alternatively if you’re really brave you can even spend a night in an open-air hammock! I opted for a “private “wall-less” cabin with rustic charm, complete with comfortable bedding and a private terrace overlooking the rainforest. Falling asleep to the soothing sounds of nature and waking up to the melodies of tropical birds was a true delight. In spite of reading late into the night with the light on, to my astonishment I never got bitten once to my knowledge while in my room.
One of the highlights of my stay at Calanoa Lodge was the array of activities and excursions available. Guided hikes through the rainforest introduced me to the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon, as knowledgeable guides shared their expertise about the flora and fauna that call this place home. Canoe trips along the nearby rivers allowed me to witness the magic of the jungle from a different perspective, while night walks revealed the enchanting nocturnal creatures that come to life after sunset.
Calanoa Lodge also provides a unique opportunity to engage with the local indigenous communities. Through cultural exchanges and visits to nearby villages, I gained a deeper understanding of their rich traditions and way of life. From learning about traditional medicinal plants to participating in local craft workshops, these interactions left an indelible mark on my journey, fostering a sense of respect and appreciation for the region’s cultural heritage.
Mealtimes at Calanoa Lodge were a culinary adventure, featuring delicious and locally sourced ingredients. The lodge’s talented chefs showcased traditional Amazonian flavors, preparing mouthwatering dishes that tantalized my taste buds. Dining amidst the natural beauty of the rainforest, with the sounds of nature as my backdrop, was an experience that awakened all my senses.
Calanoa Lodge exceeded my expectations in every way, offering a remarkable experience that combined sustainable practices, cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural beauty. It provided a rare opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of the modern world and reconnect with nature on a profound level. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Calanoa Lodge is an exceptional destination that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
If you’re interested in a truly immersive adventure in Colombia and the Amazon then why not have a look at our 14-night Colombia Adventure. For any questions or to book then please don’t hesitate to contact us.
