Ireland for ever!

Ireland is steeped in history and can trace its heritage to almost 5,000 thousand years ago with archaeological sites like Newgrange, near Dublin and the Ceide Fields in County Mayo. Ireland is also famous for its warm welcome – its 'Cead Mile Failte' or '“One Hundred Thousand Welcomes'. How better to experience Ireland than with our Georgian Farmhouse tour, where history and the warm Irish welcome can be combined! The Georgian Period was from the late 1700’s through to the end of the 1800’s and coincided with the rule of the various King Georges throughout that period. Our programme is based on bed and full Irish breakfast ccommodation in en-suite bedrooms in stylish Georgian or other period/historic farmhouses. The accommodations we use are generally those whose basic structures would have been built from the late 1700’s to the late 1800’s and have been occupied by the same families since then; many of them are still full working farms.

Georgian Farmhouse tour
DAY 1: Dublin Airport and Transfer to Wicklow (85km)
Arrive at Dublin Airport and drive to Wicklow area – depending on time of arrival, there may be some time for local touring or perhaps a visit to the 6th century monastic settlement at Glendalough or Powerscourt House and Gardens.
Overnight in Wicklow.
DAY 2: Dublin’s Fair City (145km)
Travel to Dublin city where you can trace the history of this colourful city from early Viking origins, through the mediaeval magnificence of St. Patrick’s Cathedral – visits to Dublinia, Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery, Trinity College and much, much more. Return to Wicklow for overnight.
DAY 3: Medieval Kilkenny (90km)
Travel to Kilkenny area. En-route you can visit the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens in Kildare. Continue on to the medieval city of Kilkenny where perhaps you could enjoy a walking tour of the city, which commences at Shee Alms House, now the tourist office, but formerly offering shelter for the poor of Kilkenny during the middle ages and continue through the narrow streets and slip ways where you can see many of the historic sites Kilkenny is famous for. You can also visit Kilkenny Castle which stands on a majestic site beside the river Nore. This magnificent castle, dating from 1172, lies in a beautiful 50-acre park. The Gobelin tapestries and Great Hall have been restored to reveal their former splendour.
Overnight in the Kilkenny area.
DAY 4: Cork & West Cork or Kerry (175km)
This morning leave Kilkenny and travel south towards Cork, Ireland’s second largest city. En-route, why not visit the Old Midleton Distillery and learn how Irish whiskey is made or kiss the world famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and acquire the gift of eloquence? Continue on into the spectacular west Cork region where many fishing towns and villages dot the southwest coastline. Overnight in either west Cork or Kerry region.
DAY 5: Ring of Kerry (235km)
Today tour one of Ireland’s loveliest districts, the Ring of Kerry. Poets, painters, writers and musicians have all tried to convey the beauty of this area. Mountains, valleys and lakes blend into a palette of scenic splendour. A delightful day includes a drive along the broad, dramatic coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula and through the charming villages and towns of Killorglin, Cahirciveen, Waterville and Irishspeaking Sneem. Why not visit Muckross House, a magnificent
Victorian mansion and one of Ireland’s leading stately homes? The gardens at Muckross House are renowned world-wide for their beauty; in particular they are noted for their fine collections of azaleas and rhododendrons.
Overnight in either west Cork or Kerry region.
DAY 6: Limerick/Tipperary Region (140km)
Today travel towards the Limerick/Tipperary area; perhaps visiting Tralee and the Dingle Peninsula en-route. In Tralee why not visit the Kerry Museum, which traces the history of Kerry from 5,000BC to the present day? Continue on to Limerick and the Shannon Region. In Limerick why not visit King John’s Castle or the Hunt Museum or continue to the nearby village of Bunratty and visit Bunratty Castle & Folk Park where you can see Irish village life around the 1900’s created in the Folk Park.

Overnight in Limerick/Tipperary area

DAY 7: Kildare/Meath Area (165km)
Returning to the Dublin region today, why not visit Birr Castle Demesne where you can visit the gardens or see one of the world’s largest telescopes? Time permitting, why not visit Dublin again for some last minute shopping or sightseeing. Overnight in Kildare/Meath area
DAY 8: Depart from Dublin Airport (85km)

Tempting Turkey

Turkey is a land of glorious beaches, colourful history, hospitable people and fascinating cultural contrasts that reflect its unique situation. Bordered by six countries and four different seas, it has one foot firmly in Europe and the other in the Middle East. The country has a magnificent past with a rich heritage, from thirteen successive civilizations, spanning 10,000 years. Istanbul, former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, juxtaposes history and oriental splendour with contemporary style. Domes and minarets form a sparkling skyline alongside smart hotels, glamorous nightspots and trendy galleries. Turkey’s 8,000 km of sandy coastline is dotted with ruins from ancient civilizations. Ephesus is the best-preserved classical city on the Mediterranean. The mountainous interior offers hiking, skiing and surreal volcanic landscapes.Come and allow us to help you discover tempting Turkey.

Simply Turkey is a suggested holiday itinerary to Turkey. You can combine this vacation with a holiday to Egypt and/or Greece. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays Turkey and other heritage destinations. Come and experience the cradle of civilization the way you want to. Be sure to experience a holiday like never before.

SIMPLY TURKEY
ISTANBUL/CAPPADOCIA (4 nights/5 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Istanbul
Welcome to Istanbul, the capital of Turkey. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax for a while. Later in the evening, you are escorted for an evening cruise along the spectacular Bosphorus, the winding strait separating Europe & Asia. The Bosphorus coastline is a delightful mix of the past and the present, with the grand splendour of the marble palaces and fortresses along with the quaint beauty of the ancient wooden mansions and small fishing villages. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2 – Istanbul/Kayseri/Cappadocia
The day is earmarked for a city tour that covers the must-see sights. Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque built in the 16th century by Sinan, the famous Ottoman architect of all times. Then onward to the Byzantine Hippodrome which houses the Obelisk brought from Egypt by Theodosius and the Serpent Column taken from Delphi by Constantine. Visit the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and 109 feet high dome. The last stop is the Grand Covered Bazaar, dating back to 15th century, which houses over 4,000 shops under one roof. In the early evening, you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Kayseri. On arrival, you are met and escorted to the cave city of Cappadocia. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 3 – Cappadocia
This morning is set aside for your visit to the Dervent Valley, Pasabagi Fairy Chimneys and Avanos Village. For millions of years, the mighty volcanoes of the Central Anatolian Plateau erupted and spewed their contents creating interesting rock formations, known as ‘fairy chimneys’, formed as the result of the erosion due to the flood waters and winds. Enjoy lunch at a typical local restaurant before visiting the Pigeon Valley, the natural citadel of Uchisar followed by the Goreme Open Air Museum with its pink, rose and white tapering stone columns. Visit some caves on the cliffs to see Byzantine frescoes decorating early Christian churches. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 4 – Cappadocia/Kayseri/Istanbul
Post breakfast continue your the tour by visiting Kaymakli or Derinkuyu Underground City; carved out of rock and completely self contained. More than 200 people lived on each of seven floors with the last one 250 feet underground. Then see the citadel of Ortahisar and the old Cavusin Village and its cave houses. Lunch followed by a walking tour of Red Valley and a visit to Urgup Wine House.
At around 18:00 hrs you are driven to Kayseri airport for your flight to Istanbul, where you are met and are transferred to your hotel for the night. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 5 – Depart Istanbul
Following breakfast at hotel, you are transferred to the airport for your flight back home.

New Zealand: Adventure in the islands

New Zealand’s spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords, gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests and fascinating animal and plant life. It is a haven for those seeking rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. Its temperate climate makes it an ideal year-round holiday destination.

This is a great country for self drive holidays. You do not need an International Driving Permit, as your Indian Driving Licence is recognized by the authorities. The vehicles have right-hand drive and you can choose from mid–size 1.5L cars to high-end 4-wheel-drive vehicles. The light traffic, well-maintained roads and the passing scenery makes driving a pleasure. So get ready for an exciting motoring holiday down the vast landscape of New Zealand.

New Zealand Self Drive is a suggested self drive itinerary. You can extend your holiday with a short holiday at Australia or Tahiti. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to New Zealand and other captivating destinations. Come and see New Zealand the way you want you to!

New Zealand Self Drive
North & South Island (17 nights/18 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, the City of Sails. You are met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you at leisure. Overnight in Auckland.
Day 2 – Auckland/Bay of Islands
Following breakfast, your chosen rental car will be delivered to you at your hotel. Drive north, for around 4 hours, over Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, along the Hibiscus Coast and through Whangarei – Northland’s only major city and port, to reach the fabulous Bay of Islands. Upon arrival, check in and relax. We recommend you drive down to the historic Treaty Grounds where the Waitangi Treaty was signed, giving birth to the country of New Zealand. Overnight in Bay of Islands.
Day 3 – Bay of Islands
The Kings Coach Company will pick you up from your hotel and take you on a full day trip to Cape Reinga and the 90 Mile Beach. Learn about the Bay and the history of the Maoris. Return to the hotel later this evening. Overnight in Bay of Islands.
Day 4 – Bay of Islands/Auckland
Make your way to the pier at around 0800 hours to board the Kings Ferry for a cruise into the waters and to the Hole in the Rock - the icon of the area. You can choose to get off and spend some time midway at the island of Russell with its quaint landscape and great restaurants. On your return, drive back to Auckland. Overnight in Auckland.
Day 5 – Auckland/Coromandel
Drive down the scenic south route to the Coromandel Peninsula. Stop over at the historic township of Thames, famous for its gold mining in the 1990s. Continue down the Pacific Coastal Highway to the township of Coromandel. A highly recommended optional here is the Driving Creek Train which takes you amidst the lush Kauri trees up the mountains for the most spectacular views of the Bay. Continue eastwards, over the semi tropical bush clad mountains to Mercury Bay. Check in and the rest of the evening is for you to relax and unwind. Overnight in Coromandel.
Day 6 – Coromandel
Post breakfast, indulge yourself either at the sandy Hahei Beach or visit the world famous Hot Water Beach with warm water bubbling out of the sand. The spectacular coastline of sandy beaches, coves and harbours provide boundless opportunities for fishing, boating and swimming. We recommend that you the take a gentle farmland walk to visit the beautiful and romantic Cathedral Cove for a walk or a swim. At an added cost, you can arrange for boat transfers into the cove. Do stop for lunch at the Waves Café, located next to the Hot Water Beach. Overnight in Coromandel.
Day 7 – Coromandel/Rotorua
Its time for a long drive south through Pauanui, to the Bay of Plenty and onwards to Rotorua. There is a scent of sulphur in the air, and the spouting geysers, bubbling mudpools and warm geothermal pools create a keleidoscope of colour. Check into the hotel and relax. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 8 – Rotorua
Post breakfast, drive back up north for a full day excursion to Whakatane from where you head off to the White Island. This is the country’s only active marine volcano and is located just off the main coast. It is an unforgettable experience but totally weather permitting. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 9 – Rotorua
Start your day with a drive to the Agrodome for an entertaining show on sheep farming. Follow this up with a visit to Rainbow Springs to see the local flora and the breeding of kiwis. Then head off to the thermal geysers and mudpools at Waiotapo to soak in the world famous Champagne pool, coloured springs, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters and sinter terrace formations. Visit the village of Mitai for an authentic introduction to Maori culture - their homes, cuisine, attire, crafts and arts like the poi dance and spine tingling haka finale. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 10 – Rotorua
Today is free for you enjoy at leisure. In the evening, drive to Hells Gate for a well deserved mudpool soak and some authentic spa treatments. A very strong recommendation is the unparalleled experience of a skydrive that you can take en route. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 11 – Rotorua/Queenstown
Drive to the airport and drop off your rental car before flying to Queenstown - the adventure capital of New Zealand. Pick up a rental car from the airport counter and drive to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 12 – Queenstown
The day is at leisure for you to indulge in any of the endless activities - from bungy jumping to jetboating, from white water rafting to four wheel driving, from cruising on lake Wakatipu to riding a gondola to the summit of Bob’s Peak, or simply enjoy the excellent shopping and dining available. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 13 – Queenstown
Spend the day at leisure. We strongly recommend you enjoy the world famous Doubtful Sound experience with a cruise down the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri to experience some of Fiordland’s densest rainforest and the colourful alpine moss gardens, while keeping a lookout for the bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and rare penguins. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 14 – Queenstown/Mt Cook
Drive past Lake Wakatipu through the central Otago Region to the small town of Twizel. Continue north along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Mt Cook, or as known in Maori Aorangi - the cloud piercer. Mt Cook boasts of some spectacular scenery and you can spend a relaxed day here. Overnight in Mt Cook.
Day 15 – Mt Cook/Farm Stay
Drive to the Church of the Good Shepherd and Lake Tekapo before travelling across the Cantebury plains to arrive at a typical New Zealand farm in Ashburton or Geraldine. Spend a memorable day experiencing life on a working farm by getting involved with the daily chores. Overnight on the farm.
Day 16 – Farm Stay/Christchurch
Wake up to hot scones and some great home made breakfast after which its time to bid farewell to your hosts and drive your way up to the Garden City of Christchurch. Check in and unwind for the rest of the day. Overnight in Christchurch.
Day 17 – Christchurch
Take a ride in the restored heritage Christchurch Tram for a view of the attractions of the inner city, including the Anglican Cathedral, Arts Centre, Art Gallery, Botanic Gardens, the Avon River and Cathedral Junction. A must do is the Snow and Ice Experience and the Antarctic storm at the outstanding Antarctic Centre. A recommended optional is the Skyline Gondola ride and an early morning Up Up Away hot air balloon flight. Overnight in Christchurch.
Day 18 – Depart Christchurch
Its time to bid farewell to New Zealand today. Catch up on some last minute shopping before driving to the airport to return your car to the car rental company, in time for your onward flight.

Stunning South Africa

South Africa is several countries rolled in one. Cape Town intrigues visitors with its glorious beaches, enchanting vineyards, striking Table Mountain and rugged landscapes. Sip wine at Spier and watch the sun set as you’ve never seen it before. Not to forget the mesmerizing wilderness of Kruger National Park, teeming with exotic game and the natural beauty of Knysna. This is an exhilarating land, that will reward your senses and your soul to an unimaginable degree. South Africa with its diverse experiences, promises a wholesome holiday experience.

The South Africa itinerary is a suggested holiday itinerary. You can extend your stay with the suggested extension holidays at Sun City Resort or at Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to South Africa and other captivating destinations. Come and see Africa the way you want you to.

SOUTH AFRICA
Johannesburg/Cape Town/Spier/Cape Town/Oudtshoorn/Knysna/Kruger/Johannesburg (11 nights/12 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Johannesburg/Cape Town
Arrive into Johannesburg and take a connecting flight to Cape Town. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 2 – Cape Town
Wake up to a leisurely breakfast. Set off on a half day Mother City Tour that includes visits to the Houses of Parliament, the Castle, the South African Museum and other historical sights. The cable car ride takes you to the Table Mountain for a breathtaking view of the city. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is the last stop before you make your own way to the hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 3 – Cape Town
Set off on a full day Peninsula Tour that introduces you to spectacular Cape Peninsula, also called the Fairest Cape. Take a leisurely walk in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Travel past Sea Point and Camps Bay, past the famous beaches of Clifton and Llandudno, towards Hout Bay. Drive along the Atlantic Seaboard. Pass through Noordhoek and Scarborough. Visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Seal Island. Drive along the Indian Ocean coastline, where you can visit the beautiful Boulders Beach, and perhaps sit among the famous colony of Jackass Penguins. Thereafter, enjoy a short stop at the naval port of Simon’s Town before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 4 – Cape Town/Spier
This morning, you head out into the wine growing area of Spier. This is a great place to enjoy nature and unwind. Check into your resort and spend the rest of the day soaking in the ambience. Overnight in Spier.
Day 5 – Spier
After a lazy breakfast, you can indulge in any of the variety of leisure options including visiting the Wine Centre, the open-air theatre, the swimming pools, the spa, craft exhibitions, wildlife encounters or even wine tasting on horseback! Overnight in Spier.
Day 6 – Spier/Oudtshoorn
Set out from Spier and drive down to the Mossel Bay via the Robinson Pass to Oudtshoorn. Oudtshoorn is also known as the Feather Capital of the World, thanks to its huge ostrich industry. Overnight in Oudtshoorn.
Day 7 – Oudtshoorn/Knysna
Visit the Crocodile and Cheetah Park and take pictures of yourself with the cheetah. Check out the Cango Caves, regarded one of South Africa’s most spectacular natural wonders, to marvel at the icy formations underground and then head off to the ostrich farm. You then proceed onward to Knysna. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of evening at leisure. Overnight in Knysna.
Day 8 – Knysna
Take a cruise on the Knysna Lagoon. Guarding the lagoon are the Heads, imposing sandstone cliffs that provide powerful protection against the Indian Ocean. Knysna’s forests, marshes and pristine beaches are home to a variety of rare animals and birds. Proceed to the Tsitsikamma National Park and spend the rest of the day discovering the joys of the town’s many art galleries, craft shops and coffee bars. Overnight in Knysna.
Day 9 – Knysna/Kruger
Catch your flight from George Airport to Kruger. The fabulous National Park of Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Upon arrival, you are met and are driven into the interiors of Kruger, to your private game reserve lodge. Post lunch, its time to experience the game drive you have been waiting for. Overnight in Kruger.
Day 10 – Kruger
Wake up at dawn and leave for a game drive into the jungle, prior to sunrise. Return to your lodge for some sumptuous breakfast. Enjoy two more game drives during the day. Overnight in Kruger.
Day 11 – Kruger/Johannesburg
Catch a flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival you are met and escorted to your hotel. Overnight in Johannesburg.
Day 12 – Depart Johannesburg
Your holiday comes to an end today. You are escorted to the Johannesburg Airport for your flight back home or you could opt to extend your stay with additional holiday options.

SOUTH AFRICA EXTENSIONS
Sun City Break (2 nights/3 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Sun City
This morning, on arrival into Johannesburg, you met and transferred by road to the fabulous Sun City complex. The drive to the Sun City complex, which borders the Pilanesberg National Park, takes about two hours. On arrival into Sun City, check into your hotel and relax for the rest of the day. Loads of evening entertainment awaits you here. Overnight in Sun City.
Day 2 – Sun City
Sun City offers myriad entertainment and relaxation opportunities, as well
as enough attractions and activities to keep you busy. From slots to safaris; theatre extravaganza to a games arcade for children; horseriding to golf; The Valley of Waves to The Lost City... the resort facilities are endless. The Palace of the Lost City Casino has over 850 slot machines and 38 gaming tables with a huge array of gaming choices. Check out the Gary Player Country Club and the Lost City Golf Course - both international-standard 18-hole golf courses. The Lost City Golf courses is noted for the crocodiles in the water feature of the 13th hole. Overnight in Sun City.
Day 3 – Depart Sun City
Post breakfast, its time to depart for Johannesburg to catch your flight
back home.

ZIMBABWE’S VICTORIA FALLS (2 nights/3 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Victoria Falls
Welcome to Zimbabwe, the land of the fabulous Victoria Falls. Your flight from Johannesburg arrives this morning into Victoria Falls. Upon arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax. Later in the evening, enjoy a stunning sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Overnight at Victoria Falls.
Day 2 – Victoria Falls
This morning you set out to see the Falls up close. The Victoria Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. At 1,708 meters wide, it is the largest curtain of water in the world. It drops between 90 meters to 107 meters into the Zambezi Gorge. The local people call it Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means 'the smoke that thunders'. The sheer marvel of the towering column of spray, the thunder of the falling water, the terrifying abyss and the tranquil lagoons upstream in which hippos and deadly crocodiles lurk, leaves you speechless and wanting for more. Return to the hotel later in the afternoon. The evening is free for rest and leisure. Overnight at Victoria Falls.
Day 3 – Depart Victoria Falls
Wake up to breakfast this morning and its time for you to be escorted to the airport to catch your flight back to Johannesburg.

Tantalizing Tahiti

Tahiti is a land of timeless beauty and ancient culture. Intoxicating scents, azure lagoons, palm-shaded beaches, Polynesian beauties... Tahiti and her islands are indeed a place beyond the ordinary. Moorea charms with her emerald mountains and sandy shores. Bora Bora captivates with her gentle lagoons of an unimaginable palette of blues and turquoises. Huahine, Raiatea and Taha’a offer lush vanilla plantations and ancient maraes. Rangiroa and the Tuamotus beckon divers with their untouched coral reefs and schools of marine life. The remote Marquesas enchant adventurers with its rugged cliffs and soaring mountain peaks. Tahiti is truly tantalizing - a world apart from all other tropical island vacations!

Tempting Tahiti is a suggested itinerary for a short holiday. This can be an extension to your holiday in Australia or New Zealand. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Tahiti and other tantalizing destinations. Come and see Tahiti the way you want you to.

TEMPTING TAHITI
Papeete/Moorea (4 nights/5 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Papeete
Maeva! Upon arrival at Papeete airport, you are met and transferred to the hotel in Papeete. Overnight in Papeete.
Day 2 – Papeete/Moorea
Wake up to a lazy breakfast followed by a city tour of Papeete by coach. Later in the day, take a half hour catamaran ride to Moorea. On arrival, you are transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax at the beach or the pool. You could also spend time snorkelling and admiring the fabulous undersea life this reef has to offer you! Overnight in Moorea.
Day 3 – Moorea
You are taken by coach on a Circle Island Tour to see the gorgeous sights of Moorea including Cook’s Bay, Opunohu Bay and the Belvédère lookout. Spend the rest of the day on the white sands or in the pool. Overnight in Moorea.
Day 4 – Moorea
You have the whole day to pamper yourself with the various amenities available at your resort. Swim, snorkel or simply relax by the sea and soak in the ambience! Overnight in Moorea.
Day 5 – Moorea/Depart Papeete
After breakfast, you will be escorted back to the dock for a catamaran ride to Papeete, where you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight back home.

Wild wonders

Jambo! Welcome to the wild! Kenya and Tanzania are where you see nature unfold right before your eyes. A mecca for wildlife enthusiasts, when you visit there you can get up close and personal with the king of the jungle and feel his mane brush past your hand. From game parks to wildlife sanctuaries, from the depths of a coral reef to the top of snow capped mountains, from one of the world’s most endangered owls to a herd of wildebeest more than a million strong, the wilderness here is a wonder to behold...
Breathtaking Kenya & Tanzania is a suggested itinerary for a holiday in exotic Africa. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Kenya, Tanzania and other fabulously exciting destinations. Come and see Africa the way you want you to.


BREATHTAKING KENYA & TANZANIA
Nairobi/ Lake Nakuru National Park/ Masai Mara Game Reserve/Speke Bay/
Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro Crater/Lake Manyara National Park/Nairobi
(10 nights/11 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Nairobi
Welcome to Nairobi, a thriving young city spawned during the construction of the railroad to the Indian Ocean. You are met and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy an informative presentation about East Africa’s National Parks, reserves and wildlife. Enjoy dinner at the Anghan Restaurant. Overnight in Nairobi.
Day 2 – Nairobi/Lake Nakuru National Park
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive to the dramatic Rift Valley, making a brief stop at the Rift Valley View Point and proceed to the pink Lake Nakuru for lunch at the lodge. Enjoy an afternoon game drive inside the beautiful Park to view thousands of pink flamingos and numerous wild game, including the rhinos. Dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru Lodge.
Day 3 – Lake Nakuru/Masai Mara Game Reserve
After breakfast at the lodge, depart the Lake Nakuru National Park with
en route game viewing. Cross the Loita Plains as you head for Kenya’s most scenic Masai Mara and arrive in time for lunch at your lodge. An afternoon of game drives inside the Park, followed by dinner and overnight at Mara Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 4 – Masai Mara Game Reserve
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge. Leave with picnic lunches for a full day of game viewing inside the Park. Extend your drive to the hippo point. Between meals you can choose to take an optional visit to the Masai villages for an insight into the local culture. Dinner and overnight at Mara Serena Lodge or a similar place.
Day 5 – Masai Mara Game Reserve/Speke Bay
Drive down to the Kenyan Tanzanian border town of Isebania for lunch and then onward to the Speke Bay Lodge on Lake Victoria. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at Speke Bay Lodge.
Day 6 – Speke Bay/Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, drive to Serengeti National Park. Have a relaxed lunch at the exclusive Serengeti Serena Lodge. Enjoy an afternoon of game drive. Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Serena Lodge or somewhere similar.
Day 7 – Serengeti National Park
The Masai translation of Serengeti is ‘endless plains’. The Park spreads over 23,000 square miles and is home to thousands of animals. One of the highlights is the annual migration of the wildebeest and the zebra. The migration varies from month to month but the herds are usually in southern Serengeti during December to May. The animals migrate in pursuit of food and water and to bear their young. Early morning and afternoon game drives give you an opportunity to watch the life and death drama unfold before you, as the ever-searching predators follow the masses of migrating animals. Overnight at the Serengeti Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 8 – Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro Crater
Drive across the Serengeti plains, viewing game en route and arrive at Olduvai Gorge, the famous archaeological site where two million year old humanoid fossils of Australopithecus, Homo Habilis and Homo Erectus have been discovered. This steep-sided gorge is about 50 km long and as deep as 90 meters in some places. You will have time to walk through the little museum.
Continue your drive and reach the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, set high on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater - a dormant and collapsed volcano. The first glimpse of the Ngorongoro Crater is an unforgettable experience. Over 20 kms wide and 600 mts deep, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unbroken, un-flooded caldera in the world. The volcano and surrounding landscape are part of a vast conservation area inhabited by the Masai tribe, as well as an extraordinary variety of big game and bird life. At Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, visitors co-exist in perfect harmony with the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it. After lunch at the lodge, take a gentle nature walk with a lodge naturalist. Overnight at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or somewhere like it.
Day 9 – Ngorongoro Crater
After an early breakfast, descend into the crater in a 4x4 vehicle for a full day of game viewing. Over 25,000 wild animals occupy the crater floor. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the crater floor before driving back, later in the afternoon, to your lodge perched on the rim. Overnight at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or similar lodges.
Day 10 – Ngorongoro Crater/Lake Manyara National Park
Drive down to Lake Manyara National Park, which is tucked into the base of the Rift Valley escarpment. After lunch, a game drive is planned in the Park. Overnight at the spectacularly located Lake Manyara Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 11 – Lake Manyara National Park/Nairobi
Set off after breakfast to Arusha for lunch. Drive via Namanga border to clear customs and immigration, then onward into Jomo Kenyatta airport for your international departure flight.

In the abode of Ravana

The beauty of the island nation of Sri Lanka has to be seen to be believed. Once considered to be the abode of Ravana - often seen as the good and pious but misguided man commonly villified by mythology - the small land mass just off the southernmost tip of India is well worth a visit. Food, nature, legend, crafts, gems, textiles and, of course, the people - all go into making Sri Lanka a true paradise of sight, sound and experience.

Mercury Travels has packages that will help you explore the beautiful island.

COLOMBO, KANDY, NUWARAELIYA, BENTOTA & COLOMBO.
05 Nights / 06 Days
Day 01 - Airport / Colombo
On arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will get your first taste of warm Sri Lankan hospitality. The representative from Nkar Travels & Tours (Pvt) Limited will welcome you and help you transfer to Colombo. Overnight in Colombo.
Day 02 – Colombo / Kandy
After breakfast, transfer to Kandy. En route visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This centre is set up especially for abandoned or injured baby elephants. They are reared here and trained to become working animals. Feeding and bathing in the river provide the best opportunities to see the animals close up.
Check into the hotel in Kandy. In the evening, join the city tour of Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Holy Tooth, the relic of Lord Buddha, the Gem Museum and a traditional batik-making factory. A stroll in the market place would also be interesting. Late in the evening experience a colourful cultural show where you can really get a taste of Sri Lankan culture. Overnight in Kandy.
Day 03 – Kandy/ Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, visit the Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy. Thereafter continue your journey to Nuwara Eliya. Stop at the Ramboda waterfall; en route you can stop and enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea while enjoying the spectacular scenery. Spend the evening relaxing in the cool climate. Nuwara Eliya is known as the 'Little England' of Sri Lanka. It is set against beautiful backdrop of mountains, valleys, waterfalls and tea plantations. It is supposed to be one of the coldest places on the island, but is really just like being in England on a spring day; be warned the temperature does drop at night. All around Nuwara Eliya you will see evidence of the former British presence. Houses are like country cottages or Queen Ann-style mansions. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 04 – Nuwara Eliya / Bentota
After breakfast proceed to Wadduwa via Kitulgala. Witness the world famous St. Clair’s and Devon waterfalls. Spend the evening at leisure on the beach. Overnight in Bentota.
Day 05 – Bentota / Colombo
After breakfast proceed to Colombo. In the evening, go on a site seeing and shopping trip around the busy. You’ll see the famous Bandaranaike International Memorial Hall, the Valukarama temple and the municipal council. among other sights. You can enjoy fair bargains by shopping at some of the reputed shopping malls, but pay a visit to the Pettah Bazaar.
Overnight in Colombo.
Day 06 – Colombo / Airport
After breakfast proceed to the airport for your flight back.