The Royal Geographical Society Partnership

 

Delve into the stories from the archives

 The Royal Geographical Society and Travelsphere partnership is underpinned by a shared commitment to purposeful travel, inspiring insight in travellers and a dedication to work with and in support of those communities and environments visited by our tours.

The Royal Geographical Society have selected some of our itineraries which have significance to the Society and its near 200-year history. Each chosen itinerary visits areas, regions or countries represented within their archives. Join us and travel in the footsteps of some of the world's pre-eminent scientists, geographers and travellers.

Epic Wonders of the National Parks

Cameras at the ready! Encounter the most spectacular sights and scenery the USA has to offer.

Your adventure starts in Denver, Colorado and takes you through seven different states to the bright lights of Las Vegas. Throughout your journey, you will discover stunning historic sites and landmarks dedicated to those who defined the country’s history and step into the world of the ‘Wild West’.

This meticulously planned itinerary travels through no less than nine of America’s national parks. Wonder at the diversity of wildlife and see spouting geysers in Yellowstone, then take in the breath-taking grandeur of the Rocky Mountains in Grand Teton. Immerse yourself in the countries vast, rugged landscapes shaped by the dramatic power of nature over millions of years, visiting ancient cave dwellings and geological wonders.

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Japan - Land of the Rising Sun

There are few places on Earth where the contrast between traditional and modern is quite so marked as in Japan and on this adventure you'll discover many of its incredible highlights. Your journey begins in dazzling Tokyo, you’ll then pause to to take-in spell binding Mount Fuji, see the beautiful Matsumoto Castle and then visit the traditional city of Takayama. You’ll ride the famous Bullet Train to Kyoto, and spend three nights exploring this charming city before heading to Hiroshima and uncover its important history. Your journey ends in bustling Osaka, where you’ll visit Osaka Castle and have time for shopping, relaxation or to gently take in Japan’s wonderful culture.

Grand Tour of Canada & the Rocky Mountaineer

If you want to see the sweeping grandeur of Canada in one incredible, all encompassing trip, this is the adventure for you! Travelling across the country from East to West,  you’ll stop at many of its most wonderful cities,  wonder at its spectacular scenery and learn about the nation’s fascinating cultural history.

Your journey will pause in Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver, and  then venture out to see the thundering waters of Niagara Falls. Feast your eyes on the wonderful wildlife, including bears, as you tour sensational Banff National Park, before setting our to see the turquoise-coloured water and jaw-dropping beauty of Lake Louise. Sit back, relax, and admire the view as you travel aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train. Before taking a ferry to Vancouver Island, where you can get up close to nature on an optional whale-watching adventure.

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Grand Tour of Italy

Our signature Italian itinerary takes you on an incredible journey from Venice in the north to Sicily in the south. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to discover the best of Italy in one all-encompassing adventure.

The perfectly paced itinerary takes in everything from the fascinating cities of Pisa, Florence, and Rome. Bask in the history of Pompeii, the spectacular scenery of the Sorrento Peninsula and brooding Mount Etna. You’ll stay in four-star hotels, all carefully selected so that you have a comfortable and well-located place to relax at the end of every day.

The trip includes a carefully curated mixture of guided tours, enabling you to visit and learn about the most famous and important sights, balanced with free time so that you can create the perfect adventure for you. You might choose to watch the world go by from a café, explore a museum or visit a cathedral, it really is up to you. If you prefer the convenience of having everything planned, simply ask your Holiday Director for recommendations, or join one of our exciting optional excursions.

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Latin Wonders of the World

Feeling adventurous then this is the itinerary for you. Over 18 action packed days you’ll experience many thrilling highlights as you journey to Peru, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil.

You will tour Lima, the ‘City of King’s, and Cuzco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, and discover the iconic ‘Lost City’ of Machu Picchu, nestled on a mist shrouded mountain. Marvel at the snow – capped Andes and Lake Titicaca, before heading into Bolivia, to visit the important cultural centre, La  Paz. Step next into Argentina and its capital, Buenos Aires, and tour the Plaza de Mayo and Recoleta cemetery before visiting the stunning Iguacu Fall from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides.. Travel then to Brazil and the exciting city of Rio de Janeiro, relax in this vibrant city and wonder at the statue of Christ the Redeemer and luxuriate in your hotel, located on Copacabana Beach.

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Silk Road Adventure: The Five Stans

Part of the Royal Geographical Society Collection, embark on an unforgettable 21-day adventure across the legendary Five Stans of Central Asia—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. This captivating journey weaves its way through ancient Silk Road cities, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and remote desert wonders.
Travel to UNESCO World Heritage sites in Samarkand and Bukhara, watch demonstrations of eagle hunting in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, and experience the surreal 'Door to Hell' natural gas crater in Turkmenistan's desert. Along the way, connect with local cultures—you'll dine with Dungan families, learn about the art of Uzbek plov and taste traditional bread.
From soaring canyons to historic madrassahs, bustling bazaars to serene hill villages, this tour offers unparalleled glimpses into one of the most fascinating but off-the-beaten-track regions of the world—where ancient traditions thrive alongside modern Central Asian life

Incredible India & Nepal: Culture, Wildlife & Ancient Wonders

This 18-day journey weaves through India and Nepal's most significant landscapes and cultural treasures. Begin in Delhi's contrasting old and new quarters before witnessing the Taj Mahal at dawn. Experience spiritual Varanasi, where ancient rituals unfold along the sacred Ganges. In Nepal, explore Kathmandu's ornate temples and stupas before discovering Pokhara's mountain panoramas. In Chitwan National Park, look out for rhinoceros and tigers, and conclude at Nagarkot with breathtaking Himalayan views - a perfect finale to this adventure spanning bustling cities, sacred sites, and wilderness sanctuaries.

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Spirit of Indonesia - Java, Komodo & Bali

Discover the beauty of Indonesia's captivating islands on this amazing adventure. Start in Jakarta's busy streets and travel to Bali's peaceful temples. Explore the cultural centre of Java in Yogyakarta, where you’ll visit the stunning Borobudur Temple and learn how to make traditional batik. Watch the breath-taking sunrise over Mount Bromo's volcanic landscape then, head to Flores for an unforgettable experience with the famous Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Finish your trip in Bali - an island paradise.

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Wonders of Peru: Machu Picchu and Amazon Adventure

Follow in the footsteps of intrepid adventurers as you explore Peru, an intriguing country like nowhere you have been before. Discover the colonial past of its capital, Lima, followed by a deep exploration of the Amazon Jungle in the Tambopata Area. Pristine rainforest hides all kinds of nature and your hotel looks out onto one of the biggest tributaries of the mighty Amazon River. Next up is another highlight of Peru - the world famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, perched high on a mountain above a lush river valley. Following this we will make our way from the Sacred Valley to the City of Cuzco and then onwards across the Altiplano to Puno and another natural wonder - Lake Titicaca. Return to Lima after a wonderful holiday full of nature and stunning scenery.

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Wonders of India & The Tiger Trail

Discover India's diverse landscapes, from historic temples built by ancient dynasties to the forests where Bengal tigers roam freely. This journey takes you from Mumbai's vibrant streets to the iconic Taj Mahal at sunrise, combining wildlife encounters across three renowned national parks with cultural experiences. Explore India's wilderness through exciting safaris while learning about the traditions and communities that have shaped this fascinating country for centuries.

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Istanbul to Athens - Turkish Delights and Greek Treasures

Discover where East meets West on this captivating journey through Türkiye and Greece. From Istanbul's Byzantine splendours to the cliff-top monasteries of Meteora, you'll walk in the footsteps of emperors, philosophers, and pilgrims. Explore legendary Troy, marvel at Ephesus's marble streets, and stand beneath the Parthenon's imposing columns. With carefully paced days, hand-picked hotels, and time to savour local flavours—from Turkish gözleme to Samos wine—this tour blends iconic sites with authentic moments. Ideal for curious travellers seeking history, culture, and exploration in equal measure.

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Jordan's Ancient Wonders

Discover Jordan's ancient treasures and biblical sites on this unforgettable holiday. Explore the capital city, Amman before heading to Jerash, one of the largest and best-preserved Roman cities in existence. As your journey continues, you'll visit Mount Nebo, where you can take in views of the Holy Land and the valley of the River Jordan, and the ancient fortress of Shobak. Carved into sandstone, the extraordinary city of Petra is sure to be one of the highlights of your holiday and you'll explore this UNESCO-listed site on a guided walking tour. From here, the sand dunes and desert landscapes of Wadi Rum are yours to discover as you spend a night in a Bedouin-style tent. Finally, your holiday comes to an end at the Dead Sea, where you can relax and float in the therapeutic salty water.

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Livingstone's Africa — Victoria Falls, Botswana & Zimbabwe

Few journeys in Africa offer such a range of experiences in such a short space of time, blending iconic wildlife, vibrant culture, and one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles. Your adventure begins on the banks of the mighty Chobe River, where open-vehicle game drives bring you face-to-face with some of the continent's most impressive wildlife. Cross into Zimbabwe for four nights close to the world-famous Victoria Falls – known to the local Makololo people as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning 'The Smoke That Thunders' – where a guided tour, a vintage tram ride through Zambezi National Park, and a sunset river cruise reveal the falls from every angle. The journey concludes in the teak forests of Hwange, home to vast savannahs and exceptional game viewing . From dawn safaris to evening gatherings around the fire boma, this is Africa at its best.

The Partnership Tours

All historical images (photos, artwork, maps) ©RGS-IBG