Why not take a week-long trip with us to Africa or South America this holiday season?

Where are you dreaming of spending the holidays this year?

Planning your vacation for the holidays and only have a week to spare? We’ve got some inspiration for you this week. At first thought, seven days might not feel like enough time to visit a seemingly far-flung destination like Africa or South America—but let us persuade you otherwise. We pulled together these brilliant one-week holiday ideas in some of the best destinations in two of our favorite continents that are a great option for Thanksgiving or Christmas break.

In Stories: Six Week-Long Trips for the Holidays

On the blog today we’re sharing six carefully-curated itineraries that do it all in a week. Are you looking to spend some quality time in nature or with wildlife? Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands by land or by sea, a safari in Kenya or South Africa, and gorilla trekking in Rwanda are your best bet. Are you wanting a little dose of culture and beach time? Colombia’s vibrant Cartagena is just the spot. Are you needing a dose of adrenaline with a side of spirituality? A hike in Peru’s Sacred Valley and a jaunt up to Machu Picchu are musts. Bonus: most of these trips require just one direct, long-haul flight from many of America’s biggest airports (and then maybe a quick charter flight or a short drive, but we promise it’ll be worth it). Read the blog here and let us know how we can help you plan ahead for the holidays!

Colombia’s glimmering star, the seaside city Cartagena—a perfect week-long destination

Itinerary: A Week with Primates in Rwanda

An infant mountain gorilla in it’s natural habitat in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

If you’re up for an adventure of a lifetime, trekking through Rwanda’s forests to see mountain gorillas will make for an unforgettable holiday. This five-day fly-in safari takes you from the capital city of Kigali (check our city guide here) to the foothills of the Virunga Mountain range where you’ll stay at the first lodge in Rwanda to be owned by the local community in Volcanoes National Park. From here, you’ll spend two days with the gorillas (with the option of spending the second day with golden monkeys instead).

Although their number is steadily increasing thanks to Rwanda’s conservation efforts, there are still only around 1,000 of these magnificent primates left in the wild. There’s no other wildlife encounter quite as humbling as looking into the eyes of a magnificent mountain gorilla. They share 99 per cent of our DNA and even some of our mannerisms and emotions. They share families like we do, and grieve as we do. It is a totally remarkable thing to sit in their presence.

Itinerary: Five Days in Galápagos Islands By Sea

Galápagos Giant Tortoise on Santa Cruz Island

There’s nothing more spectacular than traveling the diverse, otherworldly Galápagos Islands where blue-footed boobies nest, giant tortoises roam freely, and unforgettable landscapes are surrounded by turquoise waters than by boat.

Five days at sea is enough time to see the most iconic species, experience activities from hiking to snorkeling and enjoy everything on board the ship. Traveling on a boutique ship ensures you’ll get to experience the incredible biodiversity in the Galápagos since different species and landscapes characterize each island.

During this five-day sailing, you’ll find penguins darting through crystal-clear water, and marine iguanas marching along pristine beaches. First stop, Isabela Island where you’ll see the infant and juvenile giant tortoises. Next stop, Elizabeth Bay where you’ll take a zodiac to visit the Marielas islets—home to largest penguin colony in the Galápagos. Click below for details on this trip.

Itinerary: One Week in South Africa

Cape Town’s Table Mountain Gondola. Image by Getty Images

Looking to escape to Africa for just a week? We’ve got a perfectly balanced itinerary in South Africa for you covered with three nights in the capital city of Cape Town and four nights on safari in Sabi Sands—known by many as the best place in the world for safari. You’ll experience the best of South Africa as you explore Cape Town, a vibrant and beautiful city nestled between Table Mountain and Table Bay, then, head to Greater Kruger National Park and check into your lodge at Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. This unforgettable week-long journey features one of the best game-viewing areas in South Africa along with properties renowned for exceptional service from start to finish—check the itinerary to find out more.

Have questions? Reach out to our sales team to plan your holiday adventure!

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