Smithsonian Expeditions launches active new itineraries
For some travelers, vacation means uninterrupted time spent on a beach chair with frozen drinks. But if hiking glaciers and visiting volcanoes is more your speed, Smithsonian Expeditions will help.
The Smithsonian Institution’s travel program will introduce a new lineup of trips in 2024, offering guided outdoor trips in destinations around the world. Travelers can choose from 10 active Smithsonian itineraries, each with three to five departures next year and a maximum of 18 guests.
“Our dedication to lifelong learning and passion for exploring the world drives us to continually develop authentic and enriching experiences for our travelers,” said Lynn Cater, senior vice president of Smithsonian Travel, in a press release. “These active excursions will provide an intimate and meaningful way to connect with a destination and its people – and immerse themselves in the wonders of nature.”
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What can travelers expect from Smithsonian Active Tours?
According to the release, the excursions will be led by local guides and will be of “a range of speed and activity level”. The first flight path will begin in February 2024.
► Treetops and Trails in Costa Rica: An active excursion, guests can explore the base of Arenal Volcano, see beaches and wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park and more, with hikes and walks led by naturalists. They can also go ziplining and canoeing and have lunch at a local farm.
► Glaciers & Waterfalls: An active trip to Iceland will take travelers on foot across a glacier and see them descend into a lava tube while learning about the local geology. Guests will also meet Icelandic farmers, stop at the Viking Museum and enjoy black sand beaches and icebergs.
► Other trekking itineraries include the chance to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda in their natural habitat, bike in Chile’s Maipo wine region and more.
How Much Do Smithsonian Active Tours Cost?
Most itineraries cost between $3,300 and $5,600 per person based on double occupancy. Excursions include excursions, daily activities, most meals and gratuities, domestic flights where served, and more.
Travelers can book through the Smithsonian’s cruise website.
Nathan Diller is USA TODAY’s consumer travel reporter based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].
