Adventure trAvel for women of All Ages Hiking Sea kayaking

Adventure trAvel for women of All Ages Hiking, Sea kayaking, HorSeback riding, dogSledding, canoeing, backpacking, cultural explorationS, rock climbing, multiactivity tripS 2009 winter “I’m sure you get lots of letters back gushing about all the women bonding so I’ll try not to; it really was an excellent time with great women in a beautiful place so all the ingredients were there, that’s for sure.” —LA, MExICO BEAChES Rainforest, Cloudforest, and Volcanoes: Exploring Costa Rica Mt Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari Marangu, Tanzania / February 3 –1 6 What kind of shape do you need to be in? We’ll be glad to help you pick a trip that is suitable for your level of conditioning and consistent with your desire for physical activity. Suitable for any active woman in good health. You should be able to walk 4 miles and have good balance and mobility. In addition these trips offer the ability to easily opt out of some activities. These trips require the same conditioning as R trips but will have at least some days where opting out is not possible. Requires aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for at least 30-40 minutes 4-5 times a week. You should be able to sustain physical activity over an entire day These trips require a very high degree of fitness and most women who exercise regularly will need to add some specific conditioning San Jose, Costa Rica / December 27, 2008 – January 5, 2009 Celebrate the New Year in one of the most beautiful countries in Central America, a country of rainforest and beaches, mountains and jungles, and incredibly rich flora and fauna. In this land of jewels, we have picked out the four very best, places that showcase Costa Rica’s beauty and diversity. $2483–$2660 Join us for a journey up Mt Kilimanjaro, making the final ascent by full moon. A non-technical climb, it is both challenging and doable by any woman in excellent physical condition. Then relax on a five-day safari where the variety of wild animals will simply blow you away. $4705–$4950 including the safari Beaches, Castles, and Caves of Mexico Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico / February 7 – 14 Explore Mayan ruins, Mexican culture, and abundant marine life! The Yucatan peninsula is known for diverse flora and fauna, excellent sea kayaking, superb snorkeling, tropical jungles, and fascinating cenotes. This winter vacation is the perfect combination of activity, fun, relaxation, and learning. $1785–$1890 Howling with Wolves, Running with Dogs Ely, Minnesota / December 28, 2008 – January 3, 2009 Is your life going to the dogs? Then start the New Year in Minnesota’s Northwoods. Spend three days x-country skiing, snowshoeing, and learning about timber wolves from the Wolf Center, and then become a dogsledding diva with three full days of mushing in pristine winter wilderness. $1959–$2070 Exploring Panama Dogsledding and Winter Fun Tofte, Minnesota / January 10 – 14 Delight in five action-packed days of dog sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, then pamper yourself with a sauna, hot tub, or perhaps even a massage. You’ll love the condo on the shores of Lake Superior at an awardwinning resort. All rooms are singles. $1285–$1375 San Blas to Boquete, Panama / February 21 – March 2 Panama is rapidly emerging as a popular Central American destination, and yet it is still possible to feel that you have gotten off the beaten track here. We’ll spend ten days exploring this beautiful country from one end to the other, as we sea kayak in San Blas and hike in the Chiriqui highlands. $2561–$2740 Trip Accommodations: Camping Indoor Lodging Sea Kayaking the Caribbean Death Valley Delights British Virgin Islands / January 24 – 31 Kayak through crystal clear water, sleep beneath star-filled skies on beautiful beaches, don your snorkeling gear to explore the abundant marine life of the coral reefs, and relax on the white sands. BVI is indeed a paradise for those looking for a warm water winter vacation. $1964–$2075 Death Valley National Park CA / March 1 – 5 Dogsledding in the Northwoods Ely, Minnesota / March 14 – 18 Death Valley has a mythic status for many of us, particularly those who grew up watching Death Valley Days and wondered what 20 mule-team borax really meant. But how many of us actually know anything about this National Park? On this trip we hike through its fascinating geology and learn about its human history. $1198–$1285 Nothing surpasses the exhilaration of mushing with dogs through pristine winter wilderness. Learn to drive the sled, harness the dogs, and share their joy in traveling through this beautiful wilderness. Do you worry that the dogs don’t like it? You won’t after your first run with them. $1251–$1340 spring “This was my first time with a tour group and I was extremely pleased. It was wonderful not having to worry about transportation, where to stay/ eat, what outfitter/safari group to hire. It was nice to sit back, roll with the day and not have to worry. You’ve sold me on tour group adventure traveling!” —RZ, KILIMANJARO Exploring Utah’s Canyons Southern Utah / April 12 – 19 Amazing Amalfi Southern Utah is home to four national parks, each with its own special magic and unique attractions: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Capitol Reef. Day hikes are a great way to explore this stunning area and on our “tour du parks” you will gain a new appreciation of the diversity and beauty of this land. $1620–$1720 Amalfi Coast, Italy / May 8 – 16 Trekking in Nepal The Amalfi Coast is simply stunning: rugged mountains, craggy sea shore, azure blue ocean serve as a backdrop to tiny villages perched on steep hills. Delightful hiking, exquisite cuisine, and friendly people make this a perfect vacation spot. In addition we’ll spend time exploring Capri and visiting the ruins of Pompeii. $2995-$3190 Khumbu, Nepal / April 19 – May 10 Rock Climbing and Yoga Joshua Tree National Park / March 21 – 28 Joshua Tree is a climber’s paradise! Whether you are a completely new to this amazing sport or an intermediate climber, a week of immersion in the fun and challenging world of climbing will bring out your inner spiderwoman. Climb all day, eat great food and enjoy (optional) yoga at the campground. $1237–$1325 On this three-week trek through the Khumbu to Everest Basecamp, we combine strenuous and invigorating hiking in one of the most beautiful places in the world with a chance to learn about Sherpa culture. While challenging, our trek through the himalaya to the Everest region is guaranteed to be the trip of a lifetime! $2541–$2720 Treasures of Tuscany Tuscany, Italy / May 17 – 27 Tuscany is a feast for the senses. Combining travel off the beaten path with visits to Tuscany’s best known destinations, we’ll hike through timeless landscapes past ancient farmhouses, savor local specialties, relax in outdoor cafes, and explore the art and architecture of Florence and Siena. $3390–$3595 Wildflowers and Waterfalls: Exploring the Great Smokies Enchanted Spring: Exploring New Mexico Santa Fe and Chaco Canyon, New Mexico / May 17 – 24 New Mexico is known for its fascinating history, stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts and culture, and great cuisine. On this trip, we sample the best: we’ll hike in the mountains, go whitewater rafting, explore Anasazi ruins in Bandolier and Chaco Canyon, and browse the galleries and museums of Santa Fe. $1824–$1930 Great Smoky Mountain National Park, TN/ April 26 – May 2 Havasu Hike Havasu Canyon, Arizona / April 5 – 11 havasu Canyon is a desert paradise, blessed by abundant water, soaring red rock canyon walls, and spectacular waterfalls. With our gear carried to base camp by mule, this trip is ideal for women who want to combine exciting day hikes, swimming, and relaxing in a stunning desert environment $1324 -1415 April is peak wildflower season in the Great Smokies and hiking is the best way to explore this magnificent area. Join our naturalist guide on trails with the best wildflowers and the most spectacular views. home is a gorgeous vacation house where everyone has her own bedroom. $1474–$1570 summer “I wanted to say thank you again for what was, short of my daughter’s birth, the single most spectacular time of my life! This trip was everything I had hoped it would be, and so much more.” —CC, GRAND ALASKA ROAD TRIP Grand Alaska Road Trip Anchorage, Alaska / June 13 – 27 While Alaska is too big for just one visit, we’ve chosen some of the best—Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords, WrangellSt. Elias, Prince William Sound—for a 15 day road trip that combines hiking, kayaking, rafting, glacier walking, wildlife viewing and gazing in awe at gorgeous scenery. $3914–$4085 traditional Muslim villages; and learn about the difficult transition this country is going through as the newest EU member. $1547–$1695 Canadian Rockies Hiking Holiday Banff and Yoho National Parks, Alberta, Canada / July 19 - 26 Backpacking the Appalachian Trail: An Intro to Lightweight Backpacking Damascus, VA / June 14 – 21 Backpack through rhododendron and azaleas on one of the Appalachian Trail’s most spectacular sections. A perfect trip for beginners, our moderate mileage leaves time for you to learn everything you need to know about backpacking. Our lightweight approach should keep your pack under 30 lbs. $985–$1065 Join us for some of the most spectacular alpine hiking in the world. Glacially sculpted peaks, wildflower-filled alpine meadows, aquamarine lakes, deep green forests, and brilliant white glaciers present a never-ending visual feast. You will leave completely enchanted by this magic land. $1838–$1946 Introduction to Mountain Hiking White Mountains, NH / July 26 – 30 Sea Kayaking Croatia Zadar and Kornati Islands, Croatia / June 26 – July 4 Croatia’s hundreds of islands and stunning Adriatic Coast are just beginning to draw the attention of sea kayakers. Join us on this exploratory trip as we base camp in one spot and spend our days exploring the beauty and history of the fascinating Kornati Islands archipelago with its 89 islands. $1892–$2050 If you long to hike in the mountains but lack experience, this trip is for you. During these five days we combine mountain hiking with instruction in everything you need to know: basic technique, clothing and equipment, conditioning and nutrition, safety considerations, trip planning, weather and navigation $892–$970 Hut to Hut on the Appalachian Trail White Mountains, National Park / July 30 – August 2 Bulgaria’s Mountains And Monasteries Sofia, Bulgaria / July 5 – 13 Bulgaria is a fascinating mix of old and new. We will visit longstanding monasteries; hike in the Rila, Pirin and Rhodope mountains; meet the local residents of This three-day traverse from Crawford Notch to Mt Washington is the perfect graduation from the previous trip, but can also be taken separately by experienced hikers, $669–$740 Magical Maine Bar Harbor, ME / August 1 – 8 Acadia National Park and Bar harbor have long been a magnet for tourists, particularly in the delightful month of August. We will explore this area thoroughly, by bike, hike and kayak. With all this activity, that Maine lobster will taste particularly delightful. $1940–2050 (share a room and deduct $300 each) of rolling ridges, beautiful lakes and deep gorges, the scenery is gorgeous and the hiking is excellent. $771–$845 fall “The trip went beyond my expectations. I liked the range of ages in the group and what everyone brought to the table. None of my female friends at home are active in this way and it was great meeting women who liked the outdoors as much as I do. –Sh, ALMOST hEAVEN, WEST VIRGINIA Sea Kayaking Pictured Rocks Picture Rocks National Lakeshore, MI / August 20 – 23 Paddle through emerald water beneath brilliantly colored 200-foot cliffs, under a 50-foot hanging waterfall, through huge rock arches, and inside caves to remote sand beaches. This three- day sea kayak trip in one of the premiere paddling places in the Midwest is suitable for both novice and experienced kayakers. $917–$995 Hiking the Northern Cascades North Cascades National Park, WA / August 8 – 15 The jagged peaks, deep valleys, numerous glaciers and cascading waterfalls of North Cascades National Park have long lured hikers and mountaineers looking for challenging hiking in a spectacular alpine environment. We’ll hike some of the classic day hikes in the area by day and enjoy warm beds and great meals in the evenings. $1722–$1825 Backpacking Isle Royale Isle Royale National Park, MI / August 23 – 31 Summertime in Door County Door County, WI / August 16 – 22 Door County is the Midwest’s answer to Cape Cod: a peninsula of outstanding natural beauty that beckons you to hike, bike, and kayak, interspersed with charming towns full of art galleries, great shopping, and top restaurants. The challenge is simply deciding how to spend your time. Fish boil, anyone? $1591–$1690 Isle Royale National Park is one of the least-used National Parks. And no wonder! Located in the middle of Lake Superior, access is quite limited and there are more moose than people. Our challenging backpacking trip will take us from one end to the other as we traverse the main ridge. Backpacking experience suggested. $1135–$1220 White Mountain High White Mountain National Forest, NH / August 30 – September 3 Hiking the Porkies Porcupine Mountains, MI / August 15 – 19 This beautiful state park, situated right on the shore of Lake Michigan, offers both wilderness hiking and rustic cabins for those who prefer not to camp. A series New hampshire’s White Mountains offer challenging hiking and spectacular views. We’ll hike through hardwood forest, along windswept ridges, and past waterfalls. Every day we’ll offer a choice of two hikes of differing lengths, and every evening we’ll enjoy our comfortable lodge. All rooms are singles. $999–$1080 contrasting with the deep blue sea and bays with powdery white sandy beaches: if this is your image of Greece, it is exactly what you’ll find on our island hopping hiking trip in the Cyclades Islands. $3123–$3320 Trekking in Bhutan Paro, Bhutan / October 2 – 28 The Snowman Trek in the himalaya of Bhutan is long (24 days), cold, and very, very challenging with 7 passes over 17,000 feet. This is the hardest trip we’ve ever offered and it will probably be the only time we offer it, If that sounds like just what you’re looking for, please give us a call. $5995–$6280 Slackpacking Georgia Living the Cowgirl Life Gunnison, CO / September 6 – 12 Autumn in the Adirondacks Appalachian Trail, GA / October 18 – 25 You’ve been dying to hike a section of the Appalachian Trail but you just can’t see carrying a heavy pack and sleeping in shelters without a hot shower? We have the perfect solution—slackpacking! hike a new section every day and get picked up at the end for a hot meal, shower, and a comfortable bed in a gorgeous hostel. $999–$1080 This year we take over a ranch high in the Colorado Rockies for a week of riding, fly fishing, hiking and laughing. The ranch is very private and secluded, with a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, so relaxing is also high on the agenda. Reconnect with your inner cowgirl! price tba Adirondacks State Park, NY / September 20 – 27 Trekking to Machu Picchu hike, bike, and kayak at the height of the fall foliage in the largest state park in the US, This is one of our favorite places and definitely our favorite season! This year we’re joining with WomanTours to combine two excellent itineraries into one truly unique adventure. $1875 Cusco, Peru / September 5 – 16 Magical and mysterious Machu Picchu has long lured western travelers. On this trip we travel off the beaten path, along little known routes that once were main arteries of the Incan Empire. Our sturdy mountain horses allow us to climb over high passes that take us into seldomtraveled areas. price tba Backpacking the Appalachian Trail, Section by Section Northern Vermont / September 27 – October 3 We continue our section hiking of the Appalachian Trail, this year tackling a portion of the trail in the northeastern state of Vermont. here the Appalachian Trail passes through high, rugged country with woods and overgrown farmlands and follows part of the famed “Long Trail” along the rugged crest of the Green Mountains $965–$1045 Guatemala Antigua, Guatemala / November 7 – 16 home of the ancient Mayan culture, Guatemala is rapidly gaining recognition as a prime destination for those who want to combine active exploration with cultural immersion. Antigua, Lake Atitlan and the ruins of Tikal are all included on our 10-day itinerary that will leave you wanting to return often. $2280–$2450 Autumn Paddling Ely, MN / September 13 – 19 Hiking Bryce and Zion National Parks Zion and Bryce National Parks / November 6 – 9 Sometimes you just want to fit in as much hiking in a short period as you possibly can, and that is what we’ve planned for this four-day getaway. We’ll spend three nights in Zion with a day trip over to Bryce for one of its premiere hikes. The cool weather and quiet of late fall are delightful for hiking. $985–$1065 Fall is our favorite time to spend in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The summer crowds and mosquitoes are gone, and the leaves are just starting to turn. Whether new to paddling or already experienced, you’ll delight in the pristine lakes, quiet campsites, and the serenity offered by wilderness. $989–$1070 Backpacking the Grand Canyon Grand Canyon National Park, AZ / October 3 – 10 Lodge-to-Lodge on the Superior Hiking Trail Tofte, MN / September 20 – 24 On this hiking trip at the height of fall colors, we sample different accommodations as we explore various sections of the trail. With the option of two hikes of different lengths each day, this is a perfect getaway vacation for women who enjoy fall hiking and hospitable lodging. $1179–$1265 The Grand Canyon is truly one of the wonders of the world, and its exploration is not to be taken lightly. Once away from the crowded rim, we travel primitive paths, gather water from infrequent springs, sleep under the stars, and understand our own insignificance. Backpacking experience required. $974–$1075 Island Hopping in Greece Cyclades Islands, Greece / October 3 – 11 Fishing villages with whitewashed flat roofed houses and narrow streets, hundreds of chapels, rocky landscape General information the trip fee: There is an early bird discount of $50 for registration on domestic* trips four months in advance, and $100 on international trips six months in advance. You will also receive a 3% discount off the entire trip fee if you pay the balance by check, regardless of how you pay the deposit. Your trip fee generally includes guides, lodging, permit fees, group equipment necessary for the activity, transportation while on the trip, and meals as indicated on the itinerary. Transportation to the trip starting point is not included. How to register: To register for a deposit and cancellation policies: For domestic* trips, the deposit is $300. For international trips, the deposit is $400. In the unfortunate event that you must cancel your trip, please give us written notice of your cancellation by mail, e-mail or fax. Your refund will be determined according to the following formula: days prior to departure: international domestic* 120+ days 120 - 91 days 91 to 46 days 45 days or less 90+ days refund: All but $50 90 to 61 days 50% of your deposit 60 to 30 days 50% of trip fee 29 days or less No refund trip, you can either mail the registration form with your deposit, call to register by phone with a credit card, or register on our web site. Deposits may be paid either by check ,Visa, or Mastercard. The balance of the trip fee is due 60 days prior to the start of your trip for domestic* trips and 90 days for international trips. * including trips to Canada and Mexico After you register: When you register for the trip we will send you a trip confirmation letter or email. Additional information, including an invoice, detailed packing list, and other general information specific to the trip will be sent or emailed four months prior to the trip start for international trips and three months prior for domestic* trips. This information is also available on our web site. If we have a waiting list and can fill your spot, all but $50 of your payment will be transferred to a trip of your choosing in the next 365 days. Adventures in Good Company reserves the right to cancel or alter a trip due to unforeseen weather, unsafe conditions, low registrations or other circumstances. On the rare occasion when Adventures in Good Company must cancel a trip, all payments received to date will be refunded, including the nonrefundable portion of your deposit. We are not responsible for any costs incurred in preparation for the trip. We strongly recommend buying trip cancellation insurance and will send you the necessary forms after registration. r e g i S t r at i o n f o r m Cut on dotted line and mail to: adventures in good company, 5913 Brackenridge Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21212 Name: Address: City: Phone: Trip: Trip Dates: Deposit Amount: Visa/Mastercard No.: Signature: the deposit and cancellation policy are described above, please make sure you understand them. i understand the cancellation policy. (Please check) Expiration Date: State: Email: Adventures in good Company 5913 Brackenridge Avenue Baltimore, MD 21212 Adventure Travel for Women of All Ages visit our website at: www.AdventuresInGoodCompany.com phone: toll free: fax: email: website: 410-435-1965 1-877-439-4042 410-435-3084 trips@adventuresingoodcompany.com www.adventuresingoodcompany.com check our web site for detailed information on all of our trips, as well as trips that have been added to the lineup. and sign up for our e-newsletter, the very best way to stay on top of the latest changes and additions, learn about new books and websites, and hear things that you might miss otherwise!