Step into Eritrea, a land of contrasts where art deco cities, mountain railways, island archipelagos, and vibrant markets tell a story of resilience and beauty. On our Small Group tours in Eritrea, we take you to 6 unmissable experiences that deserve a place on your bucket list adventure holiday. These journeys weave together culture, history, and natural wonders into unforgettable memories.
Located on Morocco's Atlantic coast, Casablanca is where young Moroccans go to seek their fortunes, where business and creative industries prosper - it is the best representation of a modern nation.
Visiting the Balkans you will have a chance to witness outstanding architecture, mountain peaks, flowing rivers and lakes – the ideal destination for every avid adventurous traveller.
Travelling to Greece will have you leaving the Mediterranean country with a deep love for tasty traditional cuisine. Greek culture has some of the world's most delicious food, from hearty slow-cooked meat dishes to rose-flavoured cakes for dessert.
If you love Cairo, it will love you back! Its beautiful chaos can be both infuriating yet beautiful all at the same time - the magnificence of the city will overwhelm you with its beauty and frenetic atmosphere.
From the Ionian Islands in the west to the pre-Hellenic culture of Crete to the South, and not forgetting the breathtaking scenic views of the mainland, Greece offers a wealth of mesmerizing places to visit.
With its glittering sapphire waters and world-class, palm tree-lined beaches, the Maldives is the downright obvious choice for the perfect holiday.
There are very few places in the world that can carve a deep, lasting impression on a traveller – India is one of these places.
Thinking about travelling to Africa to experience its wild beauty? Here's some inspiration just for you.
An Egypt tour offers so many memorable moments which will stay with you for a lifetime. Here are four bucket-list activities that you simply have to try.
Along with Egypt's rich ancient history, comes great traditions and festivities. Here are five of the best festivals to experience in Egypt.
Spending time at the Red Sea resort town of Hurghada is a massive highlight of our Egypt tours. This helpful guide will give you some insight into what you can do here.
During an Egypt tour, you'll have plenty of free time to shop till you drop. Here are 10 handy tips to make the most of your shopping experience in Egypt.
Wondering where to travel in 2020? Here's why Egypt should be at the top of the list.
Egypt is a country rich in history, giving travellers the opportunity to travel back in time. Here are the top 5 temples to visit in Egypt.
Thinking about travelling to Nepal? Here are 10 reasons why you should visit its capital city - Kathmandu.
Travelling to Nepal? This handy guide will give you some insight into the local cuisine.
Is swimming in the turquoise-coloured waters of the Red Sea on your travel bucketlist? Here are some of the best Egypt tours available that takes you there.
Egypt is much more than just its famous pyramids! In this article, we dissect what this beautiful country has to offer.
Do you want to explore Egypt's bustling capital city of Cairo? This handy guide will give you insight into what to do and where to go.
The Middle East is home to some of the best culinary dishes on the planet - have a look at what you can expect right here.
Planning on exploring Vietnam? Here are the top five temples to visit in this historic country.
Planning a trip to Cambodia? Here is a checklist of five temples you just cannot miss.
Every year, travellers flock to Bhutan to trek its stunning trails. If you're thinking about trekking in Bhutan, this handy guide will give you some insight into what to expect.
South African cuisine is a lot like the countries diversity and rich history - with delicacies coming from the Cape Malay to recipes deriving from the Dutch settlers.
Planning your holiday is easier when you know how to pack and plan so here's a guide on when is the best time to visit South Africa.
To help fuel your wanderlust, we tapped into 2020’s best adventure travel destinations – ranging from epic Nepal to the Rainbow Nation of South Africa, dreamy Morocco, and more.
South Africa in January is often believed to be the peak season of the summer. The activities and the places to visit aren’t short on excitement, so there’s absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t plan your trip at the start of the year in this dazzling country.
Looking for a unique travel destination for the month of February? A Cambodia tour should be at the top of your list.
If you’re thinking of travelling to Vietnam, February is your best bet - you can expect dry, bright weather throughout the whole country.
A great travel photo reveals some aspect of that place’s true character that, though it may have been hidden, seems to have always been there. So why not take a trip around the world - from the Great Pyramids of Giza to the Blue City of Morocco, and more, with our favourite travel photos of January 2020.
If an Egypt trip is on your 2020 bucket list then the Discover Egypt tour is perfect for you – from temples and tombs to pyramids, sailing down the Nile and eating mouthwatering traditional Egyptian cuisine, and so much more.
The landlocked nation is a paradise for adventurous types, although it also features an abundance of culture with beautiful palaces, temples and shrines adorning the Kathmandu Valley, gorgeous mountain vistas overlooking Pokhara, and national parks rich with wildlife.
Thinking about travelling to Nepal? Do you want to marvel at the natural beauty of Mount Everest? Then our small group tours to this beautiful country are perfect for you.
March is the start of one of Nepal's two annual peak tourist seasons and it's also when the temperatures have truly warmed up after winter – with the thawing of many high-altitude trekking trails, river levels primed for whitewater rafting, and some exciting cultural festivals.
The village itself is small, with lots of plants, trees and charming lampposts. Strangely enough, this place will remind you of Hanoi in Vietnam. There you will also find beautiful buildings in the old style. But unlike Hanoi, Bandipur is much less touristy.
Nepalese cuisine might not be as popular as it should be on an international stage, it is often overpowered by its more headstrong neighbouring countries however, don’t mistake this as complacency.
Proper packing is the first step to making a trip memorable and that’s what this article is the perfect guide of what all you need for your Nepal packing list.
Located amid rugged desert canyons and mountains in what is now the southwestern corner of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Petra was once a thriving trading centre and the capital of the Nabataean empire between 400 B.C. and A.D. 106. Here's everything you need to know before your visit.
From stunning natural landscapes to world-renowned historical and religious sites, Jordan is truly a hidden gem of the Middle East. Jordan will leave you feeling touched by the generosity and kindness of its people.
We asked a few of our Encounters travellers to share at least one of their best and most memorable travel photos from their January trip – tours ranging from Incredible India, Jordan on a Shoestring, Pharaonic Encounters, and more.
If you’re heading to the Middle East on a Jordan adventure, you’ll need to know what to pack and how to pack – we thought we’d help you out and take the guesswork out of things with our Jordan packing checklist.
April is one of the most popular months to visit Jordan - and with good reason - the weather is pleasant, and the semi-arid hills of northern Jordan burst into magnificent, knee-high bloom.
The question here though isn’t whether or not you should visit Egypt but rather is it safe to visit? The short answer: Yes, Egypt is safe! However, for the long answer, carry on reading.
Jordan is safe and hospitable, however, it suffers guilt by association due to its location in the Middle East. Travellers who take the time to discover and explore this peaceful and friendly nation are rewarded with a warm welcome from locals.
At Encounters Travel, our adventure overland tours take in many of destinations cultural, scenic and wildlife highlights - often travelling through several countries to give you a truly in-depth experience.
The big question is, are overland tours expensive? Some say overlanding is among the cheapest ways to visit Africa, and provides a great introduction to the continent for first-timers, while others strongly disagree.
It’s no secret that taking on Africa in the form of an overland safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The rewards are rich and varied; endless horizons, unspoilt bushveld, truly wild places and truly wild animals.
People often describe their first solo trip as an almost religious experience - to take in new surroundings unfiltered by the prejudices, tastes, or preferences of a travelling companion can be heady stuff.
It’s worth doing your research on the climate of the areas you are travelling to so that you know what to expect and what sort of clothing you should take.
One thing’s for sure when you travel to Africa on an overland tour, especially for first-timers, is that you need to travel with an open mind!
With Encounters Travel you can expect to travel in comfortable, fully equipped and specially designed expedition vehicles, giving you a great vantage point from which to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
Pokhara is the starting or finishing place for most treks in Nepal's Annapurna region.
Planning a Nepal tour? A visit to the city of Dhulikhel should be at the very top of your list. Here's why.
Do you know your pyramids and pharoahs? Test your knowledge about Egypt in this interesting quiz.
Are worried about travelling with a group of people you don't know? Our private tours might be the solution for you.
Wondering where to travel to in February? Here is a list of the best destinations to visit during the month of love.
Rosemary Brown has travelled with us 8 times - we find out about all her travel experiences and why she keeps coming back.
We chatted to Cynthia Covell to find out more about the seven tours she's travelled with us.
Planning on experiencing the beauty of Egypt in 2022? Add these four attractions to your itinerary!
Need some help packing your bag for your African overland adventure? This handy guide will give you some tips on what to include in your travel bag.
Planning on travelling but don't know where? Make sure these destinations are on your bucketlist.
India is a vast and extremely diverse country – from its people to their culture, and even food. You will find that each city, or a monument you visit, carries a unique charm that will leave an impression on you.
Many parents tend to think that travelling with kids until they are grown is not possible but that is far from the truth - family travel is possible. Have a look at our top five countries to visit with your kids before they grow up!
If you’re planning a trip to the Himalayas and are after a quick answer on the best treks to go on, the answer is, “it depends”!
The Grand Egyptian Museum is said to be the world's largest museum that will be solely dedicated to one civilisation.
No matter what beach you prefer, whether it's remote and rustic or lively and well-equipped, this list will show you some of the best beaches around the globe.
Travelling anywhere can get expensive, but Lebanon is no exception. Because of the high costs of goods and limited public transportation, it can be difficult to budget your expenses for a trip to Lebanon.
Authentic Middle Eastern food is more than its taste, on our Middle East holidays, its also an insight into the life and history of those who prepared it.
A Morocco tour has a lot to offer travellers - main attractions include the luxurious riad hotels and shopping, as well as the traditional hammam (traditional spa) experiences, Fez and Marrakesh. Adventure-seekers will find the Atlas Mountains Trails and Sahara desert dunes the most popular.
A Jordan tour gives you the opportunity to experience some of its ancient cities such as the bustling city of Amman and more along the way.
Packing for your Turkey holiday can be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time visiting the country. Here’s our quick guide to help you.
Budget travel isn’t as hard as it seems - no matter your location, there are plenty of places you can visit with a limited budget. If you know the right tricks, even countries we think are expensive can be very accessible.
Travelling alone can be a liberating experience for a woman - you have the freedom to go wherever you want, eat whenever you want, see and do what interests you, and avoid what doesn't. When it comes to solo female travel, negotiation, agreement, or compromise are not required.
Making a list of non-touristy things to do on a Turkey tour can be difficult because each city, and even individual neighbourhoods within cities, is unique and offers visitors a different yet unique travel experience.
The vibrant streets of Aqaba, Red Sea, for the best diving, and the central areas of Amman, the capital, for enviable nightlife and modern art, are all you need to see while touring Jordan cities.
What should I bring to Egypt? What should you bring with you when planning a trip to Egypt? What should you wear in Egypt? All of these are questions you will have as you plan your trip to Egypt. But don't worry; it's very simple.
The Black-necked crane is the only alpine crane species on the planet and is revered as a symbol of longevity in Bhutan.
If you're considering a trip to Nepal, here are a few reasons why you should go.
Discover the wonders of ancient Egypt at Luxor Temple monument, following in the footsteps of the ancient Egyptian Pharaohs Amenhotep III & Ramses II.
Discover the ancient wonders of the colossal Abu Simbel Temples near the Aswan High Dam, the final resting place of the ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II.
The Jerash Ruins in Jordan near Amman is one of the best preserved Roman ruins on the planet. If you're planning on heading to this ancient city to see the ruins of Jerash, this guide is for you.
The Dendera Temple Complex, also known as the Temple of Hathor is a middle kingdom ancient Egyptian monument situated on the west bank of the Nile River. If you're planning on visiting the Temple of Dendera, this guide is for you.
Discover hidden gems on a tour of Old Cairo, as you explore Coptic Cairo and Islamic Cairo in this ancient part of the city.
Ajloun Castle is a 12th-century Muslim castle situated in northwestern Jordan built under the rule of the sultan and military leader Saladin. The castle is set on top of Mount Auf in the Jordan Valley.
The Citadel of Qaitbay in Alexandria is located on the site of Alexandria’s famous lighthouse, once considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
The Giza Plateau is home to the Great Pyramids of Giza - Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, the Great Sphinx and a host of other ancient Egyptian tombs and monuments.
Do you want to visit Madaba, the city of mosaics in Jordan to see the oldest map of the Holy Land and a host of other mosaic maps? This article will provide you with everything you need to know.
Explore Jordan's desert castles such as Qasr Amra, Ajloun Castle, Shobak Castle and more from the bustling city of Amman.
Experience nomadic Bedouin hospitality in Jordan. Immerse yourself in local traditions, culture, and breathtaking desert landscapes.
This travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Dadès Gorge in Morocco (Dades Gorge)., which winds through the High Atlas Mountain Range.
Discover the wonders of snorkeling in the Red Sea in 2023. Explore the top snorkeling spots, find the perfect resorts, and dive into a world of vibrant marine life. Unforgettable adventures await beneath the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.
Find out everything you need to know about hot air ballooning in Luxor, from sunrise flights to floating over the Valley of the Kings, the river Nile and more.
Discover the magical beauty of Erg Chebbi, a stunning desert region in Morocco. Immerse yourself in the endless sand dunes, desert camps, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage.
Discover Ait Benhaddou, an iconic Moroccan destination steeped in history. Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover the beauty of the iconic mosque of Ibn Tulun. Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of one of the oldest mosques in Cairo.
Discover the vibrant heart of Cairo at Tahrir Square. Immerse yourself in Egyptian history, enjoy bustling markets, and witness local culture in this iconic landmark.
Explore the allure of Elephantine Island with our guide: Discover ancient ruins, the Temple of Satet, Aswan Museum, Nilometer, and the vibrant Nubian culture.
Learn about the ancient Egyptian Meidum Pyramid and its collapse. Delve into the history of the step pyramid of Meidum and the dynasty of Pharaoh & King Huni.
Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Naama Bay in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt. Explore pristine private beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, and indulge in luxurious resorts for a truly unforgettable vacation.
Explore the ancient Ben Ezra Synagogue in Cairo, a testament to Egyptian Jewish heritage. Delve into its history, including the intriguing Baby Moses legend behind the Hanging Church.
Discover Bab Zuweila Gate: Tracing Fatimid & Mamluk history. Mosque of Al-Shaykh & Bab al-Mitwalli legacy in Cairo. Bab Zuweila was an execution site during Mamluk times part of the original Fatimid fortifications, pivotal Southern Gate since 11th century.
Explore Wadi El Gemal National Park & Marsa's wonders: valley of camels, vibrant reefs, serene mangroves along the Red Sea in this 40 kilometer adventure south of Marsa Alam.
Discover the rich history of the Fatimid and Islamic eras at the Sultan Qalawun Complex in Cairo. Explore the monument, mausoleum, and legacy of Sultan Al-Mansur.
Discovering the Hurghada Grand Aquarium: A Fascinating Tourist Spot for Hurghada Aquarium Tours, Underwater Tunnels, Opening Hours, and Beyond in the Red Sea. Perfect for guests of all ages.
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt. Discover the vibrant hues of Colored Canyon in Nuweiba—a true natural gem. Join guided canyon tours for an unforgettable adventure.
Explore Egypt's rich history at the Coptic Museum near the Hanging Church, Cairo. Discover ancient artifacts, delve into history, and experience cultural treasures.
Explore the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo: An incredible collection of Islamic art. Showcasing some of the finest artifacts in the world.
Uncover the splendor of Al-Hakim Mosque in Cairo - a timeless marvel weaving history and culture. Immerse in Egypt's heritage. Join us on a journey!
Discover the beauty of Egypt's Nabq Nature Reserve / Nabq National Park in stunning Sharm El Sheikh. Explore the wonders of the Nabq protected area
Discover the stunning Abu Al-Abbas Al-Mursi Mosque in Alexandria, Egypt, a true architectural marvel renowned for its intricate design and rich historical significance.
Discover the mystique of Anba Hatre, or Saint Simeon Monastery Ruins, near Aswan. Explore ancient monk ruins & local history on Aswan day trips.
Danniell Saunders, our Marketing Director, is known as the team's nomad. When he announced that he was embarking on an overlanding adventure in Chile, we couldn't resist the opportunity to conduct a quick interview with him. Read on to discover what inspired his journey, the lessons he learned, and why it was a trip of a lifetime.
Nestled in Konya, an ancient city in Turkey with roots plunging as deep as the Bronze Age, this mosque is a symbol of the rich and textured tapestry of Turkish history and a must visit for travellers on Turkey tours.
The Royal Jewelry Museum is an enchanting place with a rich history and a must-visit destination for any jewelry enthusiast or history buff.
Explore Egypt's cultural treasures at Alexandria National Museum. Uncover the rich heritage of Alexandria through captivating exhibits, artifacts, and historical collections
Uncover the fascinating history of Ancient Egypt at the Mummification Museum. Explore exhibits that showcase the intriguing process of mummification and delve into the secrets of an ancient civilization.
Get ready for the ultimate water adventure on yout trip to Makadi Water World in Hurghada, Egypt. Experience and enjoy an array of thrilling water activities and unleash your inner water enthusiast at this fun-filled, family-friendly water park.
Discover the Amr ibn Al-A'as Mosque in old Cairo the first mosque built in Egypt, a fascinating piece of Egypt's cultural heritage as well as Islamic history. Immerse yourself in its rich history and architectural beauty.
Uncover Cairo's holiest Islamic sites at Al-Hussein Mosque, tied to Ibn Ali. Explore this iconic mosque near Khan El-Khalili Bazaar.
Discover Anitkabir, the magnificent mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal honoring Turkey's founder. Immerse yourself in this historic landmark and witness the extraordinary architecture and rich heritage it embodies.
Discover Antalya's charm! Explore its beaches and follow essential tips for a memorable visit. Uncover must-know details before your Antalya adventure.
Discover the beauty of Assos, Turkey's charming coastal town. Explore ancient ruins, enjoy a relaxing beachside getaway, and savor delicious local cuisine. Plan your unforgettable trip today!
Discover the charming seaside town of Bodrum, known for its stunning views and rich history. Immerse yourself in the ancient wonders and experience the beauty of this turquoise coastal gem.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Butterfly Valley. Immerse yourself in a natural paradise surrounded by stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and a sense of tranquility like no other located on the coast of Turkey.
Delve into Dalyan's allure with alleys, integral to boat tours and river cruises. Explore Kaunos, Dalyan Delta, and Iztuzu Beach in this Dalyan River guide.
Discover the best things to do in Fethiye. Immerse yourself in crystal clear waters, explore ancient sites, and soak up the sun on pristine beaches.
Discover Göcek and the beauty of Fethiye in our travel guide. Explore Göcek and Gocek marinas, immersing in Muğla's coastal charm. Your ultimate beach escape awaits!
Discover the unique charm of Harran Beehive Houses in Turkey - an architectural wonder dating back to the ancient Mesopotamian. Immerse yourself in a living history experience unlike any other. Explore now!
Explore the splendors of Turkey with our comprehensive Istanbul travel guide. Discover the best of this city's rich historical sites, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine for an unforgettable experience with our travel tips.
Discover the captivating allure of Kaymakli Underground City in Cappadocia. Unearth the secrets beneath, exploring Kaymaklı's unique underground marvels.
Explore Kusadasi: Ancient City, Beach Bliss, and Attractions like Ephesus, Pigeon Island, and House of Virgin Mary. A Turkish gem on the Aegean Coast.
Discover the historic Mount Ararat in Armenia, believed to be the resting place of Noah's Ark. Explore this volcanic wonder, the highest peak in Turkey, near Eastern Turkey.
Explore the beauty of Uludağ National Park in Bursa, a top-notch ski destination near Istanbul. Uncover the wonders of Uludag, pristine landscapes and thrilling ski experiences.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pamukkale and Hierapolis. A Turkish marvel featuring thermal pools, travertine terraces, and everything you need to know before your visit
Explore Pergamum (Pergamon), an Attalid city by the Aegean Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Churches, unveiling a rich Roman history in Bergama.
Explore the 10 best things to do in Hue —the ancient capital of Vietnam. Uncover the best things to see, including tombs of emperors in this historic city.
Explore the Mekong Delta and its lush landscape, vibrant culture, and unique cuisine on an unforgettable journey. Discover the beauty of Vietnam's most iconic river and its surrounding areas.
Discover the rich Vietnamese history of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the capital city.
Discover the rich history of Phnom Penh with must-see attractions like the National Museum, Silver Pagoda, and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Explore things to do in Phnom and Cambodia.
Discover the rich heritage of Cambodia at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, the official residence since 1866, showcasing Khmer grandeur along the riverfront.
Explore Kulen Mountain and Phnom Kulen National Park near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Discover 16th-century marvels, reclining Buddha, and ancient lingas.
Discover Vientiane, Laos, the capital along the Mekong River. Immerse in authentic Lao culture, visit Buddhist temples, and explore the largest city.
Explore the mystical Pak Ou Cave in Luang Prabang, Laos, nestled north along the Mekong River. Witness ancient Buddhas amidst limestone cliffs.
Explore the vibrant culture of Hanoi! From ancient temples to bustling night markets, discover the best things to do in Hanoi. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Vietnam's capital.