Orient Explorer Tour

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be met by our company representative and transferred to your hotel.


Overnight in Istanbul

After breakfast in your hotel, there is a full day guided tour which includes St. Sophia (Closed on monday), the cathedral built by Emperor Justinian in 537 which was the largest church in Christendom for a thousand years, the Byzantine Hippodrome with its various monuments including a 3500-year-old red granite obelisk brought from Egypt and erected here in 390 AD. The Ottoman Empire produced marvelous architecture and you'll see two of its finest works: Topkapi Palace(closed on tuesday), home of the sultans, and the famed Blue Mosque of Sultan Ahmet I. After all these visits, you'll venture into the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar. Transfer back to your hotel.


Overnight in Istanbul

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.  After that, your tour starts with a visit to the Spice Bazaar, the center for the spice trade in Istanbul. Continue the Bosphorus Cruise, a magical journey covering the European and Asian shores. You see the marvelous monuments and districts like Maiden Tower (Kiz Kulesi), Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortakoy, Fethi Ahmet Pasa Mansion, Ortakoy Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Kuleli Military School, Arnavutkoy, Bebek and more highlights of Istanbul located on both sides of the Bosporus. In the afternoon, cross over the Bosphorus Bridge to Asia and visit Beylerbeyi Palace, which was the summer residence of the Ottoman Sultans. We end our day with a visit to Camlica Hill, one of the highest points of the Bosphorus and Istanbul. The Camlica Hill has a wonderful panorama including the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus, the Historical Peninsula, and the Princess Islands.




Overnight in Istanbul

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Nairobi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.


Overnight in Nairobi

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After that, you'll be transferred to Wilson Airport for a scheduled flight to Masai Mara. The flight departs Nairobi at 1030hrs and arrives approximately at 1120hrs. Masai Mara is a wildlife reserve located in southwestern Kenya, which is famous for its incredible diversity of wildlife and stunning landscapes. It is named after the Maasai people who are the traditional inhabitants of the area and Mara means \"spotted\" in their language, which refers to the dots of trees, shrubs, and animals that dot the savannah landscape. Upon arrival, you will be met by a representative and transferred to the lodge. After lunch, there will be an afternoon game drive returning to the lodge as the sun sets.




Overnight at Masai Mara National Reserve

Rising at dawn with tea and coffee, depart for an early morning game drive before breakfast, catching the animals before the heat of the day sets in. The Masai Mara is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the famous Big Five - elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalos. It is also a popular destination for witnessing the great wildebeest migration that takes place from July to October every year, as over a million wildebeest and other grazing herbivores migrate in search of fresh grazing pastures. Enjoy the rest of the morning at leisure, followed by an afternoon game drive, returning to the lodge as the sun sets.




Overnight at Masai Mara National Reserve

Following an early morning game drive and breakfast, guests will be transferred to the nearest airstrip for a scheduled flight to Nairobi. The flight departs Mara at 1145hrs and arrives in Nairobi at approximately 1245hrs followed by a flight to Dubai. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.


Overnight in Dubai

This morning, enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of the cosmopolitan city of Dubai. Even with its modern buildings, Dubai has maintained its Islamic architecture through monuments such as the Jumeirah Mosque. You will get a chance to make various photo stops as the still of the moment guides you towards the oldest part of the city. Batakia remains nestled within the bustling city where one can admire the serenity of the old wind-tower houses built by wealthy merchants at the beginning of the century. \"Al Fahidi Fort' nearly 200 years old houses the Dubai Museum and reveals the history of this city. Walkthrough the vibrant colors of the textile market to the 'abra' station. Then drift across the creek in water-taxis to experience the warmth of the city and a drive to Burj Al Arab, the iconic hotel that has established unmatched standards of luxury. On the other side, we will proceed across the busy alleys where the aroma of the 'spice souk' filters through the air to the dazzling glitter of the famous Gold Souk to round off the tour.


Overnight in Dubai

Today you will be transferred back to Dubai International Airport for your flight to Delhi, a monumental city with a vibrant mix of old and new teeming bazaars, stately British boulevards, powerful Mughal palaces and forts, and intricate, ethereal towers, temples and tombs. Upon arrival at Delhi International airport, you will be met by our welcome ambassador and escorted to your hotel where you will be assisted with check-in formalities. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.


Overnight in Delhi

After breakfast proceed for half day sightseeing of Delhi. Start the visit at Raj Ghat on the banks of the river Yamuna is Mahatma Gandhi's Memorial, where he was cremated following his assassination in January 1948. The memorial lies amid landscaped gardens and is made of a simple square platform of black marble inscribed with his last words \"Hey Ram\". An eternal flame burns for 24 hours. Drive past Red Fort, the 17th-century-imposing fortress built in red sandstone is surrounded by a huge 33m high boundary wall. Inside are exquisite palaces and beautiful gardens. Continue your tour to Jama Masjid (Friday Mosque), made of red sandstone and white marble. It is India's largest mosque where more than 20.000 people can kneel in prayer at one time. The interior of the prayer hall is divided into aisles by arches. The walls and floors are of marble inlay panels. This tour will provide an opportunity to enjoy a rickshaw ride & enthral yourself in this amazing ride which will give you an experience that is unlike you have had before! Rest of the day at leisure.


Overnight in Delhi

Early morning pickup from your hotel, and transfer to the New Delhi railway station to board the deluxe fast train to Agra. Breakfast is served during the journey. Upon arrival in Agra, look for your driver who waits at the main exit gate with a sign with your name. Transfer to a hotel where you have time to freshen up before your guide arrives. Head out in a private air- conditioned vehicle to see the World Heritage-listed Taj Mahal, which is considered the best example of Mughal architecture in India. After ample time at the Taj Mahal, continue to the Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The red sandstone fort dates to 1565 and contains courtyards, mosques, and private chambers. Stop for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant after your visit to Agra Fort, then you have the option, at your own expense, to visit the Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) for another view of the Taj Mahal. Next, there is time to go shopping for handicrafts such as brassware, carpets, jewelry, embroidery, leather goods, and clothing. At the end of the tour, transfer to Agra's train station to catch your train back to Delhi. Upon arrival in New Delhi railway station, your driver transfers you to your Delhi hotel.




Overnight in Delhi

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok. Once you arrive at the international airport in Bangkok, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Bangkok. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Bangkok is a fascinating, exciting, and incredible city to visit. The bustling city is a combination of weird and wonderful sights, sounds and smells.


Overnight in Bangkok

After breakfast, start the day with a half day city tour visiting three of the most unusual Buddhist temples in Bangkok: Wat Traimit with its invaluable Golden Buddha (5 ½ tons of solid gold), Wat Po, the most extensive temple in Bangkok, with its colossal Reclining Buddha and the Chedis of the Kings – Wat Benjamaborpitr, the White Marble Temple, one of the finest examples of Thai architecture. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure or you can pre-book one of the following optional tours.


Overnight in Bangkok

Start your day with breakfast before heading out on a half-day tour. The Grand Palace was not only the seat of the king and his court but contained within its crenulated walls, the entire government administration. While architecture is vibrantly Thai, visitors may see some European designs as well. Brilliantly colored and decorated with intricate detail, the overall effect this magnificent palace has is dazzling. The palace served as the official residence of the kings of Thailand from the 18th to the mid-20th century. The most famous building on the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in Thailand. The construction of the temple began when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other Thai temples, it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it only features richly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas. The main temple building is the central booth, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Though green in color, the Buddha is carved from a single piece of jade, and while it is only 17 inches tall, it is the most revered object in Thailand. Also, within the grounds lie several palaces that are used for various occasions: The Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall, and the Royal Guest House. While most halls and palaces may be seen from outside only, the exteriors are breathtaking enough to please the eyes of travelers.




Overnights in Bangkok

This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival at the Siem Reap International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. You will have dinner with Apsara, the traditional Khmer dance - drama performance, which are not merely dance but also telling a story.


Overnight in Siem Reap

After breakfast, gear up the exploration of Angkor complex temples, the UNESCO World Heritage by first visiting the ancient capital of Angkor Thom starting with the South Gate of Angkor Thom which is famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone. Bayon Temple - unique with its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces, Baphuon temple located in the North of Bayon represented of holy Mount Meru the residence of the gods in Hindu tradition. Continue visiting the jungle covered temple of Ta Prohm. There are enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers which embrace themselves in the stone foundations of the structure giving the impression of mans creation being reclaimed by the powerful forces of nature. This temple is famous by being chosen for major activities of Tomb Raider acted by Celebrity Angelina Jolie. Afternoon, visit Angkor Wat, highlighted by the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, carved on the walls and tell the stories of Hindu legends. This architectural masterpiece was constructed in the 12th century and covers an area of about 210 hectares. Strolling around this massive edifice, seeing many galleries with Columns, libraries, pavilions, courtyards and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple.

* The upper level of the Bayon temple is closed for renovations. The land parts remain open as usual. Visitors will still be able to visit the Bayon temple on the lower level as well as all other Angkor temples as per schedule.

* During the visit to the Bakan tower of the Angkor Wat temple, visitors must wear appropriate attire, covering the shoulders and knees, as this temple is still considered a holy place (shorts or miniskirts are not allowed) . Children under the age of twelve are not allowed to climb this tower. It will be closed on Buddhist Sabbaths, Buddhist religious days, four days a month according to the lunar calendar. (**To climb the Bakan tower, now only 100 people are allowed to enter at a time, so visitors have to queue).


Overnight in Siem Reap

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to catch you flight to Hong Kong. Upon arriva, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Hong Kong has huge number of attractions to enjoy, from charming markets to colonial sites.


Overnight in Hong Kong

This morning after breakfast, enjoy a half day tour of Hong Kong.  Spend a morning discovering some of the top sights of Hong Kong Island on this private guided tour around Central and Sheung Wan. Highlights include the Mid-levels Escalator, Hollywood Road, Tai Kwun, PMQ, Man Mo Temple, and Western Market. You will visit places such as Mid-levels Escalator, the longest in the world, followed by Tai Kwun, the Centre for Heritage and Arts Colony Heritage. It is the newest spotlight of Hong . Continue to  Hollywood Road Bar and restaurants center. Our next stop will be Man Mo Temple, one of the most popular temples in Hong Kong, built between 1847 and 1862. It remains the largest Man Mo temple in Hong Kong. Next we will learn about Hong Kong colony history and explore local market surrounding the Western Market. You will hear interesting stories about Hong Kong from your guide and enjoy a local snack (included).


Overnight in Hong Kong

Breakfast at hotel. Today you will immerse yourself in Hong Kongs culinary culture during a food tour with your knowledgeable guide. Mainly Cantonese, Hong Kong cuisine features small differences that reflect the citys mixture of Chinese and British heritage. During five stops, sample dim sum, wonton noodle soup, milk tea, roasted meat, and an egg tart. As you eat, learn about the history of food in Hong Kong, from traditional Guangzhou to Western influences from the 1950s.




Overnight in Hong Kong

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Later, transfer to the airport to catch your flight to Kyoto. Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the night at leisure.


Overnight in Kyoto

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the erstwhile capital of Japan and home to the Imperial Court. During World War II, it was the only major Japanese city to escape the bombardments, thus preserving its ancient heritage. Start your day with the journey to the outskirts to Arshiyama, crossing over the Togetsukyo Bridge (“bridge over the moon”) offering breathtaking views. Visit the Tenryu-Ji Temple which was built in 1339 to revere Gautama Buddha. This 14- century Zen Garden, with its backdrop of mountains, is a place to visit during a japan trip, followed by a walk through its mystic Bamboo forest. It is a trail through canopying bamboo trees which is so serene and peaceful that it could be a favourite part of the tour. Then its time for Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine which is made famous for its 1000 painted tori gates that stand on the paths and trails behind the main buildings. Fushimi Inari is the most important of several thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. Next up is the visit to Imperial Palace – the former ruling palace of Emperor of Japan. Last but not the least we explore the Kinkakuji Temple (Temple of Golden Pavilion) which is one of the best-known sights in Japan for gold leaves that cover the insides of the main hall. Return to the hotel. Later in the evening, if you desire so, a complimentary transfer will be arranged to GION, a busy traditional quarter famous for its Geisha – the female entertainers trained in the traditional style of performing arts. The return will be on own to the hotel.


Overnight at Kyoto.

After breakfast, immerse yourself in Japanese history and culture. Explore the temples, shrines, and attractions found in the countrys former capital city of Nara. Spend a few hours discovering this historically significant capital, first established in the 8th century, as you admire its wealth of important religious sites and a one-of-a-kind deer park nearby. Start your Nara trip in the afternoon with a pickup at Kyoto Handicraft Center or Avanti Tour Desk near Kyoto Station. After your pickup, proceed by a vehicle on your Nara excursion. The city of Nara was founded in 710 when it was designated as the countrys first permanent capital. Nara, or Heijo as it was then known, was home to many of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the then-nascent Japanese empire, which made it a key center of political and religious power. As Naras power and influence grew, the city became a threat to the government, leading the countrys rulers to move the capital to Nagaoka in 784. Despite this shift in fortunes, Nara retains a wealth of important historical sites, including some of Japans most important Buddhist temples. Stop by Naras Todaji Temple to start your trip. This magnificent edifice, constructed in the 8th century, is among the countrys most important religious buildings. Explore the temples Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), one of the largest wooden buildings in the world, along with its immense bronze Buddha statue, which is just some of the treasures to be found in this incredible attraction. Continue your Nara trip with a visit to its famous deer park, a unique 1,250-acre preserve where more than 1,000 deer freely roam. Admire these gentle creatures as they graze and wander the park, and stop to purchase special deer food, which the animals will gladly eat from your hand if you wish. Finish your discovery of Nara at the Shinto shrine of Kasuga, a serene site that features a collection of more than 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns. After leaving Kasuga, return by vehicle for a drop-off at select hotels in Kyoto.




Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, transfer to Osaka Airport for your flight back home