What makes National Geographic Expeditions different from other tour operators?
National Geographic Expeditions embodies the 130-year-old legacy of National Geographic’s scientists, storytellers and adventurers who have journeyed across all seven continents around the world. When you travel with us, you’ll be joined by a National Geographic Expert who will share their deep knowledge, cultural expertise and personal stories to help you deeply connect with the incredible destinations you’ll visit on your journey. Additionally, each expedition helps to fund ongoing initiatives of our explorers and researchers, so not only do our travelers receive one-of-a-kind experiences, they also support global initiatives of protection, preservation and education. That is the National Geographic difference..
What does it mean to travel alongside a dedicated expedition team? What role do they play?
One of the things that differentiates National Geographic Expeditions from other tour operators is that travelers get to share the experience with one of our National Geographic Experts — true experts in their fields with fascinating firsthand accounts and deep knowledge of the destination. Whether its exploring archeological ruins in Machu Picchu with an archaeologist, whale watching in Alaska with a conservationist or photographing the Northern Lights with a National Geographic photographer, our travelers are immersed in cultures and experiences guided by experts in their fields. With our experts along by your side, you become a true explorer yourself — enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime experience and connecting deeply with some of the most incredible destinations on earth.
Which itineraries are you most excited about right now?
Having grown up in Spain, and until recently living in France, I have a particular fondness for the Human History: Northern Spain and Southwest France Signature Land itinerary. This spectacular expedition currently features National Geographic Grantee Dr. Ana Cristina Pinto Llona, an archaeologist who has done incredible work in this region. Ana joins the group on an expedition through Atapuerca, where Europe’s oldest known hominin fossils were found. Other incredible destinations include the Lascaux cave, the National Museum of Prehistory and Castel Merle, a complex of prehistoric stone shelters. All of these incredible destinations are really brought to life by our experts, who share their deep knowledge and fascinating history of the human race — what we know and what we’re still learning.
I also love to talk about our Danube River Cruise: Budapest to Vilshofen. The accommodations and service onboard are top-notch, and you’ll have the chance to experience five different countries with two National Geographic Experts who are with you throughout the journey. I especially love the opportunity we offer guests to work alongside a National Geographic Photographer, who will join you at sunrise at the Wachau Valley and share tips and techniques to help you capture amazing photos. You’ll also enjoy a specially arranged tour of the Museum of Natural History in Vienna, food and wine tastings, yodeling, folklore and even a waltz lesson.
Many people may not realize that you can experience National Geographic Expeditions by land, air and water. From our Signature Land trips, to our River and Expedition Cruises, to our Private Jet trips and even Private and Custom Expeditions, we have so many incredible ways to deeply immerse yourself in the most awe-inspiring places on this planet.
