VBT Bicycling Vacations and Country Walkers have introduced the Discovery collection, an exciting range of small-group walking tours curated for those seeking cultural immersion at a leisurely pace.
Explore Diverse Destinations with Discovery Tours
Launching in 2027, the Discovery collection will offer five unique itineraries across remarkable locations such as Egypt, Australia, India, Patagonia, and Colombia. Each itinerary emphasizes a slower travel pace, allowing guests to enjoy ample free time and engage in local experiences with knowledgeable tour leaders.
Cultural Experiences Like Never Before
According to VBT trip designer Kevin Wilks, “Discovery tours are designed to go deeper.” These tours provide guests with the opportunity to explore and connect with local cultures authentically. “Interacting with local communities allows guests to experience a culture firsthand,” Wilks emphasizes, highlighting that authentic travel happens when individuals engage with daily life, rather than observing from a distance.
Egypt: A Journey Through Time
The 11-day Egypt tour includes a luxurious three-night Nile river cruise aboard a private dahabiya boat, a unique cooking class in Cairo, and a sunrise visit to the majestic Karnak Temples. Travelers will also have the chance to share tea with a local family along the Nile. Prices for this remarkable experience start at $7,595.
Australia: Nature’s Splendor Meets Cultural Richness
The Australia tour offers an unforgettable 10-day adventure that showcases the country’s stunning rainforests, coral reefs, and rugged outback. Starting at $8,995, the trip features indigenous guides, snorkeling opportunities in the Outer Great Barrier Reef, and exquisite wine tasting experiences in the Blue Mountains. This tour is advertised as a “rare gem” for those seeking an enriching journey.
India: Enchantment in Every Step
Travelers can embark on a captivating 14-day itinerary in India that includes a scenic cruise on Lake Pichola, camel cart rides through the Thar Desert, and explorations of Jaipur. Highlights also include a visit to Moonlit Square, one of Delhi’s oldest markets; an encounter with the Bhil tribe; and a thrilling leopard safari. Prices begin at $6,095.
Colombia: A Celebration of Nature and Culture
The eight-day tour in Colombia takes visitors through MedellĂn and the breathtaking Cocora Valley, allowing them to experience the country’s rich coffee culture and stunning coast. Starting at $4,995, the itinerary includes visits to Bogotá and Cartagena, activities like planting palm trees in endangered cloud forests, savoring local dishes such as ajiaco (chicken and potato soup), and supporting community initiatives like the nonprofit Pescador de Letras.
Patagonia: A Dreamlike Expedition
Lastly, the Patagonia tour spans 11 days between Argentina and Chile, beginning in Buenos Aires and concluding in Santiago. Highlights include a picturesque boat ride through the Tigre Delta, horseback riding alongside a gaucho, and awe-inspiring views of the Perito Moreno Glacier. This thrilling adventure starts at $7,695.
Conclusion
The Discovery collection by VBT and Country Walkers promises travelers an intimate and immersive experience in some of the world’s most stunning locales. With an emphasis on cultural connections, each tour offers a unique opportunity to step beyond typical tourist experiences. For those ready to embark on a meaningful journey, these small-group tours provide the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
