Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice
A Spectacular Escape to the Land of Fire and Ice!
Check off one of your ultimate bucket list destinations this year with our fabulous tour to mother nature’s land of fire and ice! Iceland is an awe-inspiring country with pristine nature, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant culture with deep roots in ancient heritage. You will be pleasantly surprised by its sparsely populated yet epic landscapes, known for their incredible glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, and active volcanic systems.
You will stay at the 4-star Fosshótel in the capital city of Reykjavik, where you can learn about and experience Iceland’s storied history of the Norseman. Our tour will illuminate many of the ancient sagas from the country’s history that make up not only part of the cultural fabric of Iceland, but that of North America as well. We will visit Iceland’s top attractions on this tour including the famous thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, where you can enjoy the views of its otherworldly vistas!
In your free time you could choose to ride an Icelandic pony, snorkel the waters between the tectonic plates, ride a helicopter and land on a volcano, or simply enjoy the local cuisine and spirited culture of Reykjavik. The options are endless- join us this October as we explore all this fabled island nation has to offer!
This tour is limited to 26 persons.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Departure from Ottawa
This evening you will depart Ottawa for your flights to Iceland (via Toronto).
Day 2
Arrival in Iceland and Tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula
Upon your arrival in Iceland you be met by our local guide and taken for breakfast. After breakfast you will go on a sightseeing tour around the Reykjanes Peninsula where you will discover several dormant volcanoes and extensive lava fields. You will also visit the Krýsuvík geothermal area and “the bridge between continents”. Later in the day you will check into your hotel in Reykjavik for your stay – Fosshótel Reykjavik.
Fosshotel, Reykjavík
Day 3
City Tour via private motor coach and local guide
Reykjavík is the world’s most northerly capital, and home to 60% of Iceland’s population. Today Reykjavík is a modern city with a variety of restaurants, museums, galleries, and theatres. On our tour we cover all the cities highlights, with a bit of walking in the downtown core. We will see the old town centre, Parliament, the Cathedral, the Harbour, the National Museum, the Pearl and Höfði house (site of the Iceland summit of 1986). We will drive past the city’s salmon river and the Árbæjarsafn outdoor folk museum, which offers an interesting contrast to the modern buildings. Our drive continues past Reykjavik’s largest outdoor swimming pool in Laugardalur which is heated with water from natural hot springs under the city, the Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum and Hallgrímskirkja Church (whose steeple is a Reykjavík landmark). The tour ends at the hotel or the National Museum (your choice). The balance of your day will be at your leisure.
Reykjavík
Day 4
Golden Circle & Fontana Steam Bath
Today you will enjoy a perfect combination of the hugely popular “Golden Circle Tour” and finish off with a visit to the newly opened Fontana Steam Bath in the quaint little town of Laugarvatn with a local guide. You will also visit the high temperature geyser geothermal area, the Gullfoss (Golden Falls) waterfall and the historical and geological wonder that is Thingvellir National Park. The icing on the cake today is a relaxing visit to Fontana Steam Bath, a natural sauna.
Note: Please bring a swimsuit (towels are provided).
Gullfoss Waterfall
Day 5
Free Day
Today you are completely free to enjoy Reykjavík. It will be your chance to visit some of the museums that make up the fabric of this wonderful city. (B)
Optional tours are also available. ($)
Day 6
Today is another free day. There will also be various optional excursions available to you at an additional cost. (B)
Arial view of Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik
Day 7
Return to Ottawa
This afternoon you will bid a fond farewell to Iceland. You will be making one final stop at the famous Blue Lagoon before heading to the airport for your return flights back to Ottawa. Arrival into Ottawa early morning of October 30th. (B)
Itinerary subject to change.
*Please note that a visit to Iceland entails a fair amount of walking to fully enjoy your holiday experience. You should feel comfortable being able to walk for extended periods of time. Many of the avenues and walkways are uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa
Washington Cherry Blossom Festival
March 20-24, 2025
The cherry blossom season is without a doubt the most idyllic time to visit Washington. Bursting with over 3700 cherry trees, America’s capital comes alive in a magnificent pink splendor, accenting the area’s abundant historical sites with the arrival of spring. Join Travac as we take you to all the very best of Washington during this incredible season: visit the capital’s most famous attractions including Capitol Hill, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, FDR Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Embassy Row and the Canadian Embassy; take in any number of renowned exhibitions within the Smithsonian Institute; and explore the city under its blanket of ethereal beauty.
Your home in Washington is The Hamilton Crowne Plaza on 14th Street. This hotel offers a truly unmatched location, offering you easy walking access to the National Mall, all of the Smithsonian Museums, and many of the area’s monuments. The hotel is also located close to a Metro (subway) line giving you affordable travel options to other destinations in the DC area.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning you will depart by private motorcoach from Westgate Shopping Centre (no parking) on your journey to Washington. Two washroom stops and one lunch stop will be made en route. At approximately 6:00pm you will arrive at your hotel in downtown Washington. You will have the evening free to enjoy dinner and relax.
Day 2
At 8:30am, a local guide will take you on a guided half-day tour of the city. You will have a chance to see all the capital’s famous attractions including Capitol Hill, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, FDR Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Embassy Row and the Canadian Embassy. This tour will also familiarize you with the city and its neighbourhoods to make your stay more enjoyable. After the city tour, you will have time to explore and enjoy Washington on your own. (B)
Optional tours will also be available ($)
Day 3
Today is a free day. You will have the opportunity to visit the prestigious Smithsonian Institution. This collection of museums and galleries, scattered along the beautiful National Mall, is home to some of the world’s most intriguing exhibits and impressive collections. You can explore the American History Museum, the National Air and Space Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, and many more institutions along the one mile stretch of the Mall. Best of all, admission to all the Smithsonian’s museums is free!
A shuttle service to the Smithsonian will be offered. Please note that most museums open at 10:00am. (B)
Optional tours will also be available ($)
Day 4
Today you will have a free day to explore Washington on your own. You may wish to return to the Smithsonian, visit some of the various monuments or explore some of Washington’s neighbourhoods.
Again, we will offer a shuttle service to the Smithsonian. Please note that most museums open at 10:00am. (B)
Optional tours will also be available ($)
Day 5
This we will depart Washington for Ottawa. A lunch stop and 2 washroom stops will be made on route. Expect to arrive at the Westgate Shopping Centre at 7:00pm. (B)
Itinerary subject to change.
Hotel Information
The Hamilton Hotel
Hotel Address
1001 14th Street NW.Washington, DC
20005
(202) 682-0111
Ontario- Christmas Season in St. Jacobs and Niagara (November 13 departure)
November 13-17, 2026
5 days, 4 nights
For our November 24-28 tour, please click here.
A magical and enchanting experience for the Christmas season!
Join Travac as we embark on an unforgettable adventure to southern Ontario to celebrate the holiday season! Your adventure will begin in St. Jacobs to experience “St Jacobs Sparkles”, an event where you will be immersed in a village enveloped in holiday spirit. Shop into the night amidst thousands of twinkling lights, indulge in delicious cuisine, and enjoy the old-fashioned charm of St Jacobs and all that Sparkles has to offer. You will also have the opportunity to visit the St Jacobs Market. You will then travel to Niagara Falls where you will experience the magic of Niagara’s winter while taking a coach tour through the Festival of Lights at night. Enjoy a free day in Niagara-on-the-Lake to explore and shop on your own. While in Niagara-on-the-Lake you will also see a Shaw Festival performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Festival Theatre.
This fabulous holiday includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, 2 nights’ accommodation at the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs, 2 nights accommodation at the Hilton Niagara Falls, breakfast daily, a visit to “St Jacobs Sparkles”, a Shaw Festival performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, evening sightseeing of the Festival of Lights, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we’ll depart from Ottawa and begin our journey to St. Jacobs. Along the way, we’ll make stops for lunch and rest breaks before arriving in the late afternoon. After checking into the hotel, the evening is yours to relax, enjoy dinner, or experience the festive Sparkles holiday event in the village of St. Jacobs, evening shuttle service will be available.
Hotel for the next 2 nights – Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs or similar
Day 2
Start your day with an included breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a full day at leisure in Waterloo and St. Jacobs. Your Travac Tours Director will be happy to offer suggested activities. The famous St. Jacobs Market is within walking distance of the hotel, allowing you to browse its many vendors and local specialties. Today also brings another opportunity to experience the enchanting “Sparkles” holiday event with shuttle service.
(B)
Day 3
After an included breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and travel to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to discover the picturesque town known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and historic streets. This afternoon, you’ll attend a matinee performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Shaw Festival.
A listening device is offered at no additional cost; please request should you require one.
1:00pm – Performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella.
Following the performance, we’ll travel to Niagara Falls and check in to our hotel. Enjoy leisure time before rejoining the group for a scenic evening drive to experience the spectacular Niagara Festival of Lights.
Hotel for the next 2 nights – Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview or similar
(B)
Day 4
Following breakfast, enjoy another day at leisure to explore Niagara Falls or return to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Your Travac Tours Director will be available with recommendations and will advise the group of the shuttle schedule between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake.
(B)
Day 5
After breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and begin our journey home to Ottawa. We’ll make comfort and lunch stops along the way before arriving back in the evening.
(B)
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs or similar
Hotel Address
55 Benjamin RdWaterloo, ON
N2V 0C6
(519) 514-0090
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel or similar
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, ON
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Québec City German Christmas Market
November 18-20, 2026
November 25-27, 2026
December 2-4, 2026
December 9-11, 2026
Québec City comes alive in the winter with the very best the holiday season has to offer. Travac would love to take you to Québec City to celebrate and enjoy its famous German Christmas Market, nestled right in the heart of the walled city. The market is designed to recreate as closely as possible the atmosphere of the big European Christmas markets. With its festive atmosphere, one-of-a-kind décor, and vibrant holiday spirit, the Québec City German Christmas Market is truly an exceptional multi-sensory experience you don’t want to miss!
Your Québec holiday includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, accommodation in the heart of Old Quebec, a city tour, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Our packages to the Québec City German Christmas Market sold out fast last winter- early booking is your best guarantee of joining this fabulous escape!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we will depart for Québec. Upon our arrival, we will embark on a tour of this beautiful and historic city. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy Old Québec at your leisure. Your Travac Tours Director will have plenty of suggestions on how to make the most of your time in the city.
Day 2
The Québec City German Christmas Market is one of the highest regarded festivals of its type in North America. The city comes alive alongside the market, with its historic streets beautifully decorated and its shops and restaurants offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Your day will be free to enjoy the Québec City German Christmas Market at your leisure, located just steps from your hotel.
Day 3
You will have the early morning to again amble through the streets of Old Québec before departing for your drive back home to Ottawa in the late morning. Your Travac Tours Director will advise you of your departure time.
Itinerary and hotel are subject to change.
Québec City and the Shores of the St. Lawrence
Enjoy a Taste of Europe in Your Own Backyard
4 days 3 nights
Québec City, built on the banks of the St. Lawrence River at Cap Diamant, is one of the most historic and beautiful cities in North America. It is the continent’s only walled city, a fact that aided UNESCO’s 1985 decision to classify it as a prestigious world heritage site.
Let Travac Tours transport you on a four-day, three-night holiday to this breathtaking capital of the province and enjoy a taste of Europe in your own backyard.
You will spend three nights at the fabulous Hotel Clarendon. Located within the gates of Old Québec, this 4 star hotel is an ideal base for exploring all the old city has to offer. A wonderful city, with a taste of Europe, that can be enjoyed by foot.
Travac’s Québec expedition provides you with a fully narrated glimpse of the city. With the help of a knowledgeable tour guide, we’ll take you on a half day excursion where you’ll see the Plains of Abraham, Artists’ Alley, Montmorency Falls, and much more.
Your Québec City holiday includes round-trip transportation in a comfortable chartered coach, three nights’ accommodation as well as a guided tour of Old Québec and a visit to Ile d’Orleans.
Coming soon- check back soon for dates and pricing!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning your private motorcoach departs Westgate Shopping Centre for Quebec City.
You will arrive in Quebec City in time for lunch on your own. After lunch you will start you tour with a walking portion of Old Quebec, followed by a coach tour of the Plains of Abraham and the Parliament Buildings.
We will then proceed to check you into your hotel, the Hotel Clarendon, located inside the gates of Old Quebec. From this famous hotel, you will easily be able to enjoy the cobblestone streets and their seventeenth and eighteenth century stone houses and churches. From your location in the centre of the old city you will be free to come and go at your leisure, perhaps stopping for a croissant and steaming bowl of coffee in a Parisian-style café. Your evening is free to do as you wish.
Day 2
This morning we will drive along the Beaupré coast to visit Montmorency Falls and the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica. We will return to Quebec City early afternoon you will again be free to stroll through the streets of old Quebec. You may also wish to visit the Musée de la Civilisation, which skillfully presents tourists with a display of French-Canadian culture.
Day 3
This morning we will be making our way to Île d’Orléans. We will visit a number of shops along the Taste Trail.
Expect to arrive back in Quebec City for a late lunch. The remainder of the day will be at your leisure.
Day 4
Your morning will be free to shop and enjoy this magnificent city. Expect to arrive in Ottawa in the early evening.
Itinerary subject to change.
Malta with Paris
Extraordinary 3 week holidays:
February 9- March 3, 2027
March 2-24, 2027
A lovely year-round climate, 7000 years of history, and a Mediterranean lifestyle that is second to none. Discover Malta, the hidden gem of the Mediterranean!
Malta is a small island in the middle of the Mediterranean with a rich history and tranquil ambience that summons tourists from around the world. Its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, unique heritage, and warm hospitality make Malta the true gem of the Mediterranean and an unforgettable bucket list destination.
History lovers will be in their element in Malta, discovering ancient temples, underground necropolises, and other man-made structures older than the Egyptian pyramids, some of which date back 7000 years. Due to Malta’s geographical position, it has been of great strategic significance over the centuries and is dotted with fortified cities, defensive walls and towers, as well as an excellent National War Museum. The Canadian Air Force played a significant role in Malta in World War II, during the island’s darkest days.
Malta’s historic 17th century capital, Valletta, is known for its stunning Baroque architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has over 300 monuments each with special significance. Further north, the breathtaking golden vistas and calm turquoise waters of Golden Bay provide a serene, relaxing escape to city life. Mdina, the “Silent City”, with its medieval fortress and astonishing views allows you to step back in time while exploring its charming alleys and archeological sites, while the caverns of the Blue Grotto and the historic fishing village of Marsaxlokk provide the opportunity to discover the diverse maritime culture that exists on this extraordinary island.
Travac wants you to enjoy all of these attractions and many more while basking in Malta’s gorgeous balmy weather on this fabulous holiday!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart from Ottawa to Paris
This afternoon you will meet at the Ottawa airport in preparation for your flight to Paris. Our office staff will be happy to give you flight details.
Day 2
Arrival in Paris
Upon arrival in Paris, you will be transferred to your hotel. Your Travac Tours Director will assist you with hotel check-in. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy the city of lights.
Hotel for the next 3 nights: Novotel Paris Les Halles (or similar)
Day 3 & 4
Paris
Your time in Paris is at your leisure. Your Tour Director will have ideas to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Day 5
Depart from Paris to Malta
This morning you will be transferred from the hotel to the airport for your flight to Malta. Upon arrival in Malta, you will be transferred to your hotel in St Paul’s Bay. Your Travac Tours Director will assist you with hotel check-in and advise you of the meeting time for your information session on optional tours. Breakfast daily is included with your hotel stay.
Hotel during your stay in Malta: AX Odycy Hotel (or similar)
Day 6 - 21
St. Paul’s Bay, Malta
Malta is a very diverse country where their history is still evident today and dates back as far as the Neolithic period. Many temples are scattered around the island and “Ggantija” is said to be one of the oldest surviving, free-standing monuments in the world, predating Stonehenge by around 1,000 years! With their strategic position in the Med, the Maltese islands have played a crucial role historically and have set the scenes for the wars between Rome and Carthage, the Second World War, the Cold War, and the period of the Crusades which left the biggest impression. When the Knights Hospitaller of St John were driven out of Rhodes and handed Malta by Charles V, they bequeathed palaces, forts, cathedrals, an abundance of art and, of course, the Maltese Cross. Malta is also a very exciting destination where you can enjoy boat rentals and plenty of beach activities. For the movie buffs, “The Da Vinci Code” and “Troy” along with many other movies were filmed here. It was also the location for the series “Game of Thrones”. Although your time is free to discover Malta on your own, your Travac Tours Director will assist you with booking optional tours and activities throughout your stay.
Day 22
Depart from Malta to Paris
This morning you will be transferred to the Malta airport for your flight to Paris. Upon arrival in Paris, you will walk with your luggage to your hotel.
Hotel for 1 night: Ibis Styles Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (or similar)
Day 23
Return to Canada
Your Travac Tours Director will assist with hotel check-out, and you will walk with your luggage to the terminal for your return flight to Ottawa. Our office staff will be happy to give you flight details.
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
AX Odycy or similar
Hotel Address
Dawret Il - Qawra, San Pawl il-Baħar SPB 1902, Malta
+356 2354 3000
Novotel Paris Les Halles or similar
Hotel Address
8 Pl. Marguerite de Navarre, 75001Paris, France
01 42 21 31 31
Ibis Styles Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (return night)
Hotel Address
Paris Charles de Gaulle Arpt, 1 Bis Rue De La Haye Accès Gps / Tremblay-En-France, Roissypole, Cs 20009, 93290Roissy-en-France, France
01 70 03 14 00
Spain- Ocean House Suites- Breakfast & Dinner Included
The Costa del Sol region of southern Spain is remarkable for its diverse landscapes, fabulous beaches and coastal sites as well as a wealth of small villages that dot the shore line. This Mediterranean coastline is one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations, hosting millions of tourists on an annual basis. Villages have grown into robust towns with great restaurants, shopping and nightlife. The area’s history dates back thousands of years and it has developed a unique and warm culture that defines the region.
Travac is pleased to be offering exceptional new 3 week packages to the Costa del Sol region of Spain that include 2 meals per day, perfectly located deluxe accommodations in Torremolinos, and the services of a local guide while at your destination.
Attractively priced, space is sure to sell out quickly- early booking is your best guarantee of enjoying this fabulous holiday.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart from Canada
Your flight departs with Air Transat from Montreal direct to Malaga, Spain. Our office staff will be happy to give you flight details
Day 2
Arrival in Malaga
Upon arrival, you will be met by your Travac Tours Director and transferred to your hotel in Torremolinos by private chartered coach. Your Travac Tours Director will assist with check in and advise you of meeting time for your information session on optional tours.
Day 3-23
Costa del Sol, Torremolinos
The Hotel Sol House is a four-star resort hotel located beachfront in the popular holiday destination of Torremolinos on the Costa del Sol, in southern Spain. Accommodations consist entirely of rooms all with their own terrace, as well as breakfast and dinner daily, making it an ideal choice for a delightful vacation. Your Travac Tours Director will assist you with optional tours and outings ($) during your stay. The optional tours are paid locally in Euros and once paid are non-refundable. A listing of these tours along with costs are only available locally once in Spain. The towns of Benalmádena, Málaga, Fuengirola, Mijas and Marbella are all close by and can be easily reached by public transportation. You will also have the opportunity to visit some of the cities in the region including Seville, Malaga, Granada and the jewel of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar ($). Shopping opportunities are extensive. There are also local markets in each village that operate on different days of the week.
Day 23
Return to Canada
Your Tour Director will assist with check out and he/she will travel with you on your transfer from the hotel to the airport via private coach. He/she will assist you with your check in. Your flight is direct from Malaga to Montreal with Air Transat.
Itinerary/flights are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Ocean House Suites
Hotel Address
Salvador Allende, 45Torremolinos, Spain
(34)952387066
Spain- Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol region of southern Spain is remarkable for its diverse landscapes, fabulous beaches and coastal sites as well as a wealth of small villages that dot the shore line. This Mediterranean coastline is one of Europe’s most beautiful holiday destinations! Villages have grown into robust towns with great restaurants, shopping and nightlife. The area’s history dates back thousands of years and it has developed a unique and warm culture that defines the region.
Travac is pleased to be offering exceptional new packages to the Costa del Sol region of Spain for 2027 that include perfectly located deluxe accommodations in Benalmádena and the services of an exceptional Travac Tours Director while at your destination.
Attractively priced, space is sure to sell out quickly- early booking is your best guarantee of enjoying this fabulous holiday!
Dates and pricing for 2027:
Hotel Information
Sunset Beach Club
Hotel Address
Av. del Sol, 5Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain
29630
+34 952 57 94 00
British Columbia- Beautiful Kelowna and the Okanagan Wine Valley- June departure
June 3 – 9, 2026
Join Travac on this incredible escape to explore the beautiful Okanagan Valley Wine region and Kelowna! An eclectic mix of spectacular mountains, sunny laid-back city life, lakeshore parks with incredible waterfronts, and lush vistas of rolling hills, orchards, and vineyards make spending time in Kelowna’s surroundings an ideal vacation.
Travac’s Okanagan adventure will take you deep into the heart of wine country. You’ll be accommodated at the downtown Royal Anne Hotel, enjoy a continental breakfast each day, visit 4 wineries that will include tastings at some of the most acclaimed wineries that the Okanagan Valley has to offer.
The Okanagan Valley Wine region is Canada’s second largest wine producing area and it accounts for more than 80% of BC’s wine production. Your days will be filled with local attractions and wine tastings, even a lunch at a local winery. The beauty and taste of this area will leave you wanting to return – join us this spring to experience one of Canada’s regional crown jewels!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Today we will Depart Ottawa for our flights to Kelowna.
Upon arrival in Kelowna, we will board our private coach and make our way to our hotel in Osoyoos. Along the way, we will stop in Oliver, also known as “The Wine District,” for lunch and optional wine tastings ($). This region is home to multiple wineries and a variety of restaurants to choose from.
We will then continue on to the hotel, where check-in will be facilitated by your Travac Tours Director.
Hotel for the next 4 nights: Watermark Beach Hotel, Osoyoos
Day 2
After breakfast, we will visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos for a guided tour, offering insight into the unique ecology and Indigenous heritage of the area. Following lunch (on your own), we’ll visit a local winery for our first tasting of the day. Later, we’ll return to Osoyoos for another winery visit featuring tastings and a selection of appetizers. (B)
Day 3
This morning is at your leisure to explore Osoyoos. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to a local winery for tastings and to soak in the lovely scenery. Lunch is included today. (B, L)
Day 4
Day 5
This morning we will depart Osoyoos and travel north to Summerland, notable for its breathtaking scenery. We’ll visit the Ornamental Gardens, a 6-hectare botanical garden site established by Agriculture Canada in 1916. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a ride on the historic Kettle Valley Steam Railway, followed by an included lunch. Enjoy stunning views of Okanagan Lake, Giant’s Head Mountain, and the Trout Creek Trestle bridge. The evening will be at your leisure to explore the area. (B, L)
Hotel for the next 2 nights: Royal Anne Hotel, Kelowna.
Day 6
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a 2-hour walking tour of Kelowna with a knowledgeable local guide. You’ll have free time for lunch on your own ($) and to explore downtown Kelowna at your leisure in the afternoon. Your Travac Tours Director will offer optional afternoon activities ($). (B)
Day 7
Early this morning we will return to Ottawa. Your Travac Tours director will keep you informed of your flight details.
Itinerary and hotels subject to change.
Hotel Information
Watermark Beach Hotel
Hotel Address
15 Park PlOsoyoos, BC
V0H 1V0
(250) 495-5500
Royal Anne Hotel
Hotel Address
348 Bernard AveKelowna, BC
V1Y 6N5
(250) 763-2277
Egypt with Viking Cruises
Statues in the Karnak Temple, Luxor
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Cairo, Egypt:
Arrive in Cairo, Egypt’s exhilarating capital. This pulsating, historic city was made prosperous over millennia as a stopover for Sahara caravans on trade routes to Byzantium. Transfer to the First-Class Ritz Carlton Nile (or similar) for a 3-night stay.
Day 2
Cairo, Egypt:
This morning we take an excursion to the necropolis at Sakkara to see the world’s oldest step pyramid. After lunch, continue to the Giza Plateau to behold the only Wonder of the Ancient World still standing: the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. There, you can experience them as the ancients did—from astride the “ships of the desert”—during a brief camel ride. Nearby, see the Great Sphinx, forever facing due east. Return to your hotel for dinner and a free evening to relax or explore on your own. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3
Cairo, Egypt:
Today the fascinating sights of Cairo unfold before you. Marvel at the sprawling Citadel of the Mountain and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Then tour the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities and admire its huge collection of artifacts, and visit the famous gallery displaying the riches of King Tutankhamen. After lunch on your own at or near your hotel, use your free time in the afternoon to follow your own interests. Later, you might join an optional visit to Khan el-Khalili, Cairo’s most famous outdoor souk (bazaar). After an orientation from your guide, you can shop for all manner of Egyptian goods, from brassware to spices, and admire the Al-Azhar Mosque. Conclude your outing with a traditional Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast)
Day 4
Luxor, Egypt:
Early this morning, fly to Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes beautifully set on the Nile River, where history will be brought to life by your expert Egyptologist. At the Temples of Luxor and Karnak, long buried beneath desert sands, walk among monumental peristyles and obelisks, and learn how ancient hieroglyphics hint at the beliefs and lifestyle of ancient Egyptians. Proceed to your Nile cruise ship for check-in and a welcome lunch. Join an excursion to the Luxor Library and Heritage Center, where the city’s past is preserved and shared in engaging exhibits. Enjoy an onboard dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5
Luxor, Egypt:
Relax over breakfast, or (weather permitting) join an optional early-morning hot air balloon ride over Luxor’s temples and monuments. Marvel at breathtaking views of an ancient city, the surrounding desert sands and the magnificent Nile. Later, head to the Nile’s west bank to visit the Valley of the Kings, where ancient pharaohs were entombed deep in the hillsides, and the Valley of the Queens, resting place of pharaohs’ wives. Here you enjoy Privileged Access to the tomb of Queen Nefertari, an exquisitely preserved tomb only a few visitors get to see. Among the sites is the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female rulers and most successful pharaohs. Return to your ship as we set sail for Qena; lunch and dinner are served on board as we cruise along the spectacular Nile. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6
Qena, Egypt:
This morning’s excursion takes you to the sprawling complex of Dendera. Remarkably, its fascinating Temple of Hathor was built not by the ancient Egyptians, but by Ptolemies and Romans in classic Egyptian style. During your tour, walk through its towering stone gate to view the columns and hieroglyphics of some of Egypt’s best preserved structures. Return to your ship after a guided visit. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7
Esna, Egypt:
Disembark at Esna today to explore the red sandstone Temple of Khnum. In the 1st-century Hypostyle Hall, admire its 24 columns, 6 across and 4 deep, each topped by a differently designed, intricately carved floral capital. As you explore, be sure to examine the hieroglyphics depicting Roman emperors making offerings to the gods. After a guided tour, use your free time to take in more of this fascinating site on your own. Alternatively, head to Esna Village on foot for a full tour of the town and its lively market scene. View the temple remains and stroll the covered street market, where you can witness an array of colorful fabrics. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8
Aswan, Egypt:
Awake in Aswan this morning, Egypt’s bustling market city. Today, you can choose to visit the Aswan High Dam, visit a local market and take a scenic Nile cruise on a felucca, a traditional Egyptian wooden sailboat. Or join an optional excursion to Abu Simbel to admire the Great Temple of Ramses II, Egypt’s longest-ruling pharaoh. It is dominated by 4 colossal statues, 60 feet high and directly facing the rising sun. The statues are all of Ramses, with his queen and daughters at his feet. Moved from its original location near Aswan to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, it was built as a tribute to the deities and Ramses II’s favorite wife, Nefertari. Make the most of your overnight stay with an optional sound and light show at Philae Temple, and discover the legend of Goddess Isis and God Osiris. Afterward, return to your ship for dinner on board and spend the night in Aswan. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9
Aswan, Egypt:
After breakfast, receive a warm welcome at a Nubian village, where you visit the elementary school and are invited into a local home to get a glimpse of day-to-day life. Then, visit Philae Temple—the small, elegant Temple of Isis, rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser that submerged Philae Island. This temple is one of the Nubian monuments that comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Have lunch on board as you enjoy scenic cruising along the Nile. Disembark later to explore Kom Ombo. Here, enjoy a guided tour of the unusual double temple dedicated to the sky god Haroeris and the crocodile god Sobek, a protective deity thought to have created the world. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10
Edfu, Egypt:
This morning, ride in a horse-drawn calèche, or carriage, to the Temple of Horus. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god of light, it was built in Edfu during the Ptolemaic Dynasty. This is another of Egypt’s best preserved temples, fronted by a massive wall whose entrance is flanked by 2 falcon statues. Or, you can choose to visit Edfu market with our resident chef and hear him explain this evening’s planned tasting menu. Enjoy more Nile cruising today, marveling at the lush green riverbanks backed by hills of desert sands. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11
Luxor, Egypt:
Early this morning, disembark in Luxor and head for the airport for your flight back to Cairo. Check in to the first-class Cairo Citystars Hotel (or similar) for 1 night and enjoy a buffet-style lunch, followed by free time, or take an optional tour to the Coptic Quarter and Jewish Synagogue. Return to your hotel and later enjoy dinner and an evening at leisure. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12
Cairo, Egypt:
After breakfast, proceed to the airport for your return flight. Or, extend your journey for 4 nights in Jordan to see the ‟lost city” of Petra. (Breakfast)