Our newest collection, Explore Upgraded, is everything you know and love about an Explore holiday – small groups, expert tour leader, unforgettable experiences with a light footprint – with upgraded stays to offer that little extra comfort at the end of a long day’s exploring.
Accommodation has been chosen using our usual protocols. Wherever possible, we stay in locally owned and run hotels for a more authentic experience that keeps tourism money in the local economy, and we always prioritise location so you’re right in the heart of the action. But tours in our Upgraded collection will typically use 4-star, rather than 3-star properties offering just that little bit more comfort when it comes to your accommodation and facilities.
There are a few exceptions to this. Where we feel the experience warrants it, there are occasions where ‘comfortable’ accommodation is still your best bet. Staying in a converted Rajasthani palace, for example, or on a houseboat on the Okavango Delta – while the stay might not be premium, we're confident that your experience will be.
In addition to Upgraded accommodation throughout your trip, these new tours also feature a special welcome meal – usually on day 2 or 3 of your trip – to welcome you to your destination and help you get to know your fellow travellers. We’ve also included (at least) one real stand-out experience or activity that brings your trip to life, or heightens your experience of this destination. This is where the memories are made.
You'll find details of the accommodation and inclusions on each individual trip page.