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DISCOVERY

For active minds, a whole new way to explore

Never Stop Exploring

Pictured Here: Kyoto, Japan

Fill Your Life with Discovery

For over five decades, VBT | Country Walkers has led guests to explore the world through active adventures and meaningful cultural connections. Today, we’re thrilled to see our newest travel style—Discovery—already resonating with curious travelers like you.

Designed for people with active minds, Discovery invites you to engage more deeply through hands-on experiences that bring each destination to life. Built on everything we’ve learned—our award-winning expertise, trusted local Trip Leaders, and seamless Tour + Travel Packages—these journeys are low impact yet richly immersive, opening doors to experiencing places and cultures in entirely different ways.

If Discovery has sparked your imagination, now is the perfect time to reserve your spot—many departures are already filling quickly. We look forward to welcoming you on one of these remarkable journeys.

Warmly,

Timo Shaw, President VBT | Country Walkers

Small-Group Cultural Experiences for Active Minds

Discovery is our newest style of travel—immersive, hands-on, locally led, and low-impact by design. It opens doors to destinations we could never reach with biking or walking routes alone, from the Amazon to the outback. Now, nothing is off the map.

→ More Hands-On Experiences. Culture isn’t something you see—it’s something you do. From cooking with locals to exploring vibrant markets, every moment is immersive.

→ More Local Insight. Each itinerary is shaped by the people who live there, ensuring you experience their culture as they want it shared.

→ More Opportunities to Make It Yours. Built-in unscheduled time gives you freedom to follow your own path, with expert suggestions always close at hand.

→ Low Impact, High Immersion. Stimulate your heart and mind without pushing your physical limits— travel that’s engaging, authentic, and welcoming.

→ Everything You Expect from VBT | Country Walkers. We crafted these itineraries with all the hallmarks that have led guests to trust us for over 50 years—from seamless Tour + Travel Packages to unforgettable included meals.

The Thrill of Discovery— Every Day.

Everywhere you go, moments unfold that are authentic, low-impact, and unforgettable— crafted by locals, enriched by tradition, and shaped by VBT | Country Walkers’ years of expertise. Discovery isn’t sightseeing. It’s living the culture.

Walk beside the shimmering blue expanse of the Perito Moreno Glacier, where Patagonia’s vast landscapes unfold in every direction.

Swim alongside gentle sea turtles immersed in the clear, turquoise waters of Tahiti during a visit to a local rescue.

Kayak across the crater lake of an extinct volcano, surrounded by the dramatic natural beauty of Indonesia

Stroll beneath countless vermillion torii gates at Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, where each step reveals the quiet beauty of Japan’s enduring traditions.

Go Further. Stay Longer.

Extend your journey with Extra Experiences—thoughtfully designed extensions before and after your tour to deepen your connection to each destination. With the same care, local insight, and seamless planning you expect, these curated Pre-Tour and Post-Tour journeys include handpicked accommodations, guided experiences, and memorable meals that invite you to explore even more.

A Sampling of Extra Experiences

In Australia, venture beyond the mainland for a 4-night Pre-Tour to Tasmania, where a coastal wildlife excursion, and an outing to the World Heritage site of Port Arthur reveal a wilder side of the country. Or continue on a 7-night Post-Tour to New Zealand, where alpine landscapes, city walks, scenic cruises, winery visits, and farm-to-table meals bring the South Pacific vividly to life on a fully guided exploration.

In India, begin with a 5-night Pre-Tour from Mumbai to Kerala, including a full-day city exploration, flights to Kochi and Delhi, guided cultural visits, and an unforgettable overnight stay aboard a luxury houseboat with all meals included. Or extend your journey with a 3-night Post-Tour to Varanasi, featuring a guided exploration of this sacred city, an evening Ganges ceremony, a sunrise boat ride, and special cultural performances.

In Patagonia, a 3-night Pre-Tour to Iguazú Falls includes guided visits to both the Argentine and Brazilian sides, forest walks, included flights, and curated meals. Or continue on a 5-night PostTour to Easter Island, where expertguided excursions reveal the island’s iconic moai, ancient sites, and Polynesian heritage in one of the world’s most remote settings.

Japan Discovery Tour from Tokyo to Kyoto

$8,545 − $10,303*

Tour only: 9 days/8 nights

$12,695*

Tour + Travel: 12 days/11 nights

Departure Months

Mar, April, May, June, Sep, Oct, Nov

On this remarkable Japan Discovery adventure, the sights of Tokyo and Kyoto are juxtaposed with the Japanese countryside most travelers never see. In the spa town of Awara Onsen, you’ll experience traditional Japanese hot spring baths, travel through rice paddy fields to visit a local chef who shows you how to make soba noodles, and venture into the mountains to discover the ancient Eiheiji Temple. In the company of your Japanese Trip Leader, you’ll learn the subtle art of calligraphy in Tokyo, visit the minka village at Shirakawa-mura, and explore the Nomura-ke samurai house in Kanazawa. Stroll through countless vermillion torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, marvel at the life-sized statues in Sanjūsangendō Temple, and revel in the aesthetic beauty of the timeless Japanese tea ceremony.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Tokyo Independent+ from $1,345 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Hiroshima Guided from $845

Australia Discovery Tour with Uluru & the Great Barrier Reef

$8,995*

Tour only: 10 days/9 nights

$10,895 − $11,445*

Tour + Travel: 14 days/13 nights

Departure Months

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov, Dec

Few Australia vacations focus on cross-cultural discovery with an eco-friendly twist, making this VBT | Country Walkers adventure a rare gem. Cruise the Great Barrier Reef on a sailing catamaran—preserving the fragile ecosystem as a local marine biologist guides your discovery. Visit a First Nations artist enclave, where you’ll learn the fine art of traditional dot painting—then journey to Uluru where you’ll experience a stunning sunset dinner. Explore the Daintree rainforest with a local First Nation’s guide and enjoy a traditional bush tucker lunch. In sophisticated Sydney, you’ll visit the Opera House, and explore Bondi Beach and its century-old surf lifesaver’s culture. An optional guided Post-Trip Extra Experience to New Zealand’s South Island brings you Māori culture, glacier experiences, and a cruise on Milford Sound.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Tasmania Independent+ from $2,745 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: New Zealand Guided from $5,295

Patagonia Discovery Tour with Torres del Paine

$7,695 − $7,945*

Tour only: 11 days/10 nights

$8,695 − $9,295*

Tour + Travel: 13 days/12 nights

Departure Months

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov, Dec

This adventure contrasts sophisticated cities with the wild, untamed beauty of Patagonia. Starting in Buenos Aires, you’ll find vibrant art, exquisite Michelin-starred restaurants, and lively milongas where you can tango the night away. Then, strike out for the splendor of Patagonia’s soaring peaks and turquoise lakes, where you may choose to walk along the Perito Moreno Glacier in all its icy blue majesty. Among Argentina’s windswept steppes, you’ll meet local gauchos and enjoy an authentic lunch at their estancia. Explore the prehistoric Midolon Caves, and marvel at the stunning granite peaks of Torres del Paine during a walk and picnic lunch. Discover the superlative vintages of the Maipo Valley and enjoy a hands-on pottery workshop at the studio of a local artisan before exploring fascinating Santiago.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Iguazu Falls Independent+ from $1,695 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Easter Island Independent+ from $ 3,395

Colombia Discovery Tour to Medellín & the Cocora Valley

$4,995*

Tour only: 8 days/7 nights

$5,745*

Tour + Travel: 11 days/10 nights

Departure Months

Jan, Feb, Mar, Oct, Nov, Dec

Explore Colombian agriculture and traditions with your local Trip Leader. Visit a cacao plantation where you’ll discover the aromatic beans used in fine quality chocolate. In the heart of the Cocora Valley, marvel at the towering height of the wax palm and help plant one with local farmers. Journey to a coffee plantation and take part in a coffee cupping workshop. Visit an orchid farm, where you’ll see a vibrant array of spectacular blooms, and explore Medellín, known for its sustainable “green corridor” network of gardens that keeps the city cool. During a hands-on cooking class in Cartagena, you’ll learn how to prepare iconic Colombian dishes—then visit a small fishing village where you’ll meet a nonprofit organization that provides education and nutrition to local children.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Bogotá Independent+ from $295 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Amazon Independent+ from $ 1,445

Tahiti Discovery Tour Cruise with Bora Bora & Moorea

$7,045 − $7,645*

Tour only: 8 days/7 nights

$9,495 − $9,895*

Tour + Travel: 12 days/11 nights

Departure Months

Apr, May, Jun, July, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

You won’t find another small-ship cruise to Tahiti with included Discovery excursions! Our partnership with Windstar Cruises brings you seven nights on a nimble sailing yacht which glides into smaller harbors the larger cruise ships can’t reach. Join your Tahitian Trip Leader on the island of Mo’orea where a local friend hosts a cooking class in her tropical garden. Snorkel with sharks and manta rays—and visit a pearl farm where you’ll have the opportunity to dive for your own pearl. Learn about local conservation efforts during a visit to a coral garden—and visit a local sea turtle rescue where you can swim with these gentle giants. Along the way, you’ll savor the tropical flavors of French Polynesian cuisine as you enjoy the many delights of your luxurious yacht.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Tahiti Island Independent from $345 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Tuamotu Islands Independent from $ 2,745

India Discovery Tour to Jaipur, Udaipur & Agra

$6,095 − $6,745*

Tour only: 14 days/13 nights

$7,345 − $8,045*

Tour + Travel: 17 days/16 nights

Departure Months

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov, Dec

While most tours of India focus on the main attractions, on this unique adventure, your local Indian Trip Leader takes you off the beaten track. Ride through the golden sands of the Thar desert—returning to your delightful oasis for an evening of traditional music and dance beneath the stars. Explore the brilliant blue city of Jodhpur, and practice yoga with an Indian yogi. In Ranthambore National Park, you’ll search for the thrilling orange streak of tigers against the lush green of the forest—and visit a non-profit organization helping protect them. Revel in the magnificence of the Taj Mahal—and visit the pink city of Jaipur where you’ll meet a local businesswoman and ride in her tuk-tuk.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Mumbai & Kochi Independent+ from $2,145 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Varanasi Guided from $ 945

Indonesia Discovery Tour with Bali & Komodo Cruise

$11,495 − $11,695*

Tour only: 12 days/11 nights

$12,795 − $12,995*

Tour + Travel: 16 days/15 nights

Departure Months

Jan, Feb, Mar, Oct, Nov, Dec

Can’t choose between an Indonesian beach vacation and a cruise? With this unique Discovery adventure, you get both! Relax and be enchanted at a luxurious Bali resort upon arrival, then venture inland to discover the temples of Ubud before boarding your charming wooden pinisi ship for a fascinating eight-night cruise. Our adventure is timed to enjoy Indonesia’s dry season—so you can soak up the sun as you snorkel through vibrant coral reefs, swim with gentle whale sharks, and kayak in the crater lake of an extinct volcano. Your Indonesian Trip Leader brings you to seaside villages where you’ll meet the locals, spot Komodo dragons, and explore pink sand beaches. An optional guided Extra Experience in Java is the perfect way to linger longer in this delightful island getaway.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Singapore Independent from $1,595 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Bromo & Java Guided from $1,845

Morocco Discovery Tour with Fès, Marrakech & the Sahara

$6,895 − $7,911*

Tour only: 11 days/10 nights

$8,795*

Tour + Travel: 14 days/13 nights

Departure Months

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Take a deep dive into the many facets of Moroccan culture as you explore the medinas and mosaics of four imperial cities with your Moroccan Trip Leader. Join a local family for a traditional tea ceremony in their home and visit a neighborhood women’s collective where you learn to prepare traditional Berber dishes. Explore the stunning sands of the Sahara Desert during a stay in a luxurious tent oasis and where the haunting notes of traditional Berber music set the mood for a starlit alfresco dinner. Discover the magic of Moroccan carpet weaving—learning about ancient techniques and symbols during a visit to a woman-owned carpet collective. Throughout your adventure, you’ll relax in luxurious accommodations offering traditional hammam retreats, vibrant gardens, and fragrant farm-to-table cuisine.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Tangier Independent+ from $1,345 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Essaouira Independent+ from $545

Discovery

Türkiye Discovery Tour with the Turquoise Coast & Cappadocia

$9,095 − $9,795*

Tour only: 14 days/13 nights

$10,745 − $11,695*

Tour + Travel: 17 days/16 nights

Departure Months

Apr, May, Sept, Oct

You won’t find many vacations on Türkiye’s famous Turquoise Coast that feature the fascinating coastal city of Izmir. Perched perfectly on the crystal-clear Aegean Sea, Izmir is the perfect spot to discover the ancient site of Ephesus, the historic archeologic site at Troy, and the fascinating village of Urla, where we’ll enjoy a rare glassblowing workshop with a local artisan. Stay at private boutique hotels that showcase the true character of the region—including a remarkable 5-star hotel in Cappadocia that is built right into the caves overlooking the region’s magnificent fairy chimneys. Here, you can enjoy relaxing in the hotel’s elite subterranean sauna, savor fine dining and exquisite wines, and marvel at the sight of hot air balloons rising over Cappadocia as you sip your morning coffee.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Istanbul Guided from $1,045 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Ankara Guided from $345

Discovery

Egypt Discovery Tour to Cairo, Luxor & the Nile

$7,595 − $8,295*

Tour only: 11 days/10 nights

$8,895 − $9,495*

Tour + Travel: 13 days/12 nights

Departure Months

Mar, Apr, Sep, Oct, Nov

Experience the architectural wonders of Egypt the way they’re meant to be seen: without the crowds. We’ve designed this unique Nile River adventure to include a traditional Egyptian dahabiya rather than a cruise ship. This small, private vessel has a flexible timetable—so you’ll explore fascinating archeological sites at sunrise and sunset when the crowds are at their thinnest—and other marvels the crowds never even reach. Meet a camel merchant and his animal companions, visit a family’s home where you’ll enjoy fresh bread baked in their wood-fired oven, and ride a tuk-tuk to an outdoor market known only to locals. As your nimble dahabiya glides into small island ports along the way, your local Trip Leader, a trained Egyptologist, introduces you to authentic daily life on the Nile.

Pre-Tour Extra Experience: Cairo Independent+ from $645 | Post-Tour Extra Experience: Jordan Guided from $1,795

FROM INFINITE TRAILS TO UNCHARTED HORIZONS

When it comes to exploring the world, VBT Bicycling Vacations offers a unique way to experience the beauty of new destinations. As part of the Xanterra Travel Collection®, we’ve spent over 150 years curating exceptional adventures. And as a past guest of VBT, those adventures come with exclusive perks and savings just for you.

When it comes to exploring the world, VBT | Country Walkers offer a unique way to experience the beauty of new destinations. As part of the Xanterra Travel Collection®, we’ve spent over 150 years curating exceptional adventures. And as a past guest of VBT | Country Walkers, those adventures come with exclusive perks and savings just for you.

Whether you’re dreaming of cycling through Italy’s vineyards, cruising Caribbean shores, or watching a geyser erupt in Yellowstone, we’ll take you there with expert planning and care.

Whether you’re dreaming of cycling through Italy’s vineyards, cruising Caribbean shores, or watcing a geyser erupt in Yellowstone, we’ll take you there with expert planning and care.

Book Now at Xanterra.com/Exclusives

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