Landscape & Scenery Travel Articles

Riddled with atmospheric waterways and dotted with exotic isles, Southeast Asia is perhaps best seen by boat. These cruises help reveal the authentic Orient.

The areas either side of the US and Canada border are home to a multitude of fantastic spots. Our specialists share their favourite trips, which allow you to see the best of both countries.

Whether you're on honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary or just want an extra special moment, our specialists pick 10 unique experiences that can make your trip unforgettable.

Ride the rails across Russia, China and Mongolia: the longest - and most epic - train journey in the world.

Angkor Wat, Luang Prabang, Halong Bay – all names that spring to mind at the mention of Indochina, and rightly so. But Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam have so much more to offer the visitor, as four of our Southeast Asia specialists were lucky enough to discover on their recent research trips to these countries.

This is one of the most spectacular places for wildlife, says Tanzania specialist Tim Parry

Australia's Grampians provide travel columnist Lindsay Hawdon and her family with extraordinary landscapes and adventure… but will there be 'roos?

A century after the gold rush, Canada specialist Elizabeth Beeson discovers plenty of riches and adventure left in the Yukon's vast, tranquil landscapes.

The 'forgotten kingdom' of Yunnan gives Audley China specialist, Graham Usher a taste of authentic, traditional South China.

Eleanor and Michael Wasley travelled with Audley to Tunisia, to take in its Roman sites and other highlights.

From buzzing cities to dramatic national parks, USA specialist Matthew Lynch showcases the country's diversity.

Estancias, gauchos and the epic, empty road. A self-drive through Patagonia is a great way to get a sense of rural Argentina, says Jonathan Goldsmith.

Colombia specialist Sarah Powell discovers how a vibrant lifestyle and textured scenery of many hues are perfect ingredients for an album of eye-catching images.

New Zealand is famous for its epic, mythical landscapes and outdoor activities. But it's also renowned for great wines and fascinating Maori culture. Here's our guide to the 'Land of the Long White Cloud'.

Pam and David Rogers travelled to Jordan, Israel and Egypt with Audley.

Kim and Judith Peto travelled to Sri Lanka with Audley.

From treetop dining to occupying an entire island, some Southeast Asian resorts are extra special, perfect for relaxing or luxuriating – our specialists pick their favourites.

Egypt specialist Alex Grose guides you through 4,000 years of history on the Giza Plateau.

Wanting to get the most out of their new camera, Bryan & Jackie Leighton began their Canadian experience in Vancouver.

Times are changing in Burma, and for the better. Jack Tydeman and Jake Green are seduced by its unspoilt landscape and the remarkably welcoming locals.

Mightily big, sometimes brash but certainly never boring, the USA is a country of striking contrasts and exhilarating experiences.

You'll find wolves and grizzlies but no TV or Twitter. Chocolat author, Joanne Harris and her daughter travelled with Audley in 2011 and fell in love with the Alaskan frontier.

Read about Peter and Gabrielle Mollett's experiences when they travelled to Egypt with Audley in February 2012.

Karan works in Kanha National Park - home to deer, tiger and Indian bison - in the state of Madhya Pradesh in India as a naturalist and safari lodge owner.

Brazil specialist Debbie Mitchell creates her ideal two-week trip taking in Rio, Iguaçu Falls and, of course, the beach...

As David Lean's classic film 'Lawrence of Arabia' turns 50 this year, John Gimlette (author of 'Wild Coast: Travels on South America's Untamed Edge') and family set out for the fabulous Jordanian desert.

Dave and Ann Brierley travelled to Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos.

Angus and Dougal Hutchison travelled to India with Audley.

This exotic region offers the perfect mix of wildlife, temples, cuisine and sunshine. But which country should you head for? Use our handy guide to help you choose the one that suits you

Head to Alberta for a lesser-known travel icon, suggests Fiona Clark, Canada, Alaska & New Zealand specialist. One of Canada's best kept secrets, Moraine Lake offers fresh air, adventures and breathtaking views.

Taking in the wilderness, wildlife and wine that South Australia and Tasmania have to offer, Australia specialists Jenny Bouquet and Chris Wilson suggest how to combine the best bits of the great outdoors Down Under.

North and Central Asia specialist Alex Shaw shares three of his favourite shots from a recent visit to China.

Shake off those winter blues with a look at destinations from around the world famous for their spring blooms.

It can be hard taking time out of our busy lives to wind down and relax. Quality time spent enjoying the simple pleasures in life can rejuvenate us and help us get back in touch with who we are.

The allure of train journeys is undeniable. There is something intoxicating about speeding through landscapes as life unfolds outside the window. Whether notable for their dramatic views, luxurious surroundings or sheer speed, we’ve highlighted what we consider to be seven of the most exciting train journeys in the world.

There is so much to see in this beautiful country, from glittering temples and colonial buildings to colourful tribal people and lush mountain scenery; anyone who travels here will be sure to want to return.

For many travellers, going on safari is a lifelong dream but with such an array of options it can be hard to know where to go, what to do and what you can expect once you arrive. Our Africa team have put together a guide to some of our most popular destinations and activities to help you plan the ideal trip.

For Polar specialist Jonathan Goldsmith it is often the story behind a photo that makes it a treasured memory. These are his favourite pictures from his recent trip to Spitsbergen in the Norwegian Arctic.

All our specialists regularly revisit their chosen regions, meticulously inspect hotels and keep up-to-date with all travel-related issues. Here, Angela, one of our Southeast Asia specialists, kept a diary while on a recent trip.

A trip to the Galapagos Islands is a once in a lifetime experience. Their incredible biodiversity, arresting scenery, remote location and historic importance make them an inspiring and highly memorable destination.

China is a vast and incredibly diverse country. From the towering peaks and sapphire blue lakes of Xinjiang in the northwest to the fluttering prayer flags and grazing yaks of Tibet and Yunnan, the idyllic fields and rice paddies of the south and the soaring buildings of China’s swiftly developing cities, it is hard to know where to begin, let alone how to get around, in this enormous country.

Western Canada is well known for such iconic attractions as Lake Louise, Banff National Park and the cities of Vancouver and Calgary. However, well off the beaten track, the country’s western-most province, British Columbia, is a treasure trove of secluded islands, historic settlements, lush rainforest and spectacular parks. Here James Butler, Canada and Alaska Programme Manager, shares his favourite undiscovered places.

Choosing to travel in the low season has a number of great benefits. In addition to lower prices, you’ll find the space and time to wander the most popular sights without the crowds, as well as spot wildlife at its most prolific.

From Indonesia to Vietnam, we examine our top five off the beaten track destinations you can visit on an Audley trip to Southeast Asia.

New Zealand’s dramatic scenery draws visitors from across the globe but, for many, Kiwi hospitality leaves an equally lasting impression. By sharing their passions with guests, many locals have created a business for themselves and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for their visitors. Whether you’re a rugby fan, history buff, wildlife enthusiast or lover of fine foods, our favourite properties offer the chance to combine your interests with an expert guide to New Zealand life.

There is nothing better than getting on the open road and exploring a country from the comfort of your own, air conditioned car, whether on a self-drive or with your own driver. Combine this with beautiful coastal scenery and you have the makings of a spectacular holiday.

We work with some of the best guides in Africa, many of them award winners. Here we introduce you to just a handful of the guides who have made Audley travellers’ trips more memorable over the years.

A highly skilled tribe, they herd cattle and live in one of the world’s harshest environments. Distinctive for the ochre they put on their skin and traditional leather clothing - many people want to meet the Himba.

Safari operator, guide, cook, mechanic, raconteur and adventurer Thomas Holden has been smitten by Africa since childhood when his grandfather first ignited his passion for the continent. Thomas now runs a safari company in Tanzania and shares with us his enthusiasm, experiences and top tips for his adopted homeland.

We take a look at the best coral reefs around the world, for sheer number of species as well as colour and quality of coral. If you love diving or snorkelling be inspired by our list below.

From endless sunlight to lightning shows, the world is full of spectacular natural phenomena. Here are just a few of the more unusual examples, and some of our favourites, from around the world.

Audley client, Kate Jones travelled to Borneo in July 2011.

Southeast Asia is inhabited by many different peoples and unique wildlife, and offers the traveller a wide range of experiences. We list out top five reasons why you should visit.

Wedged between the arid plateau of Tibet and the hot fertile plains and jungles of India, Nepal offers a plethora of opportunities to travellers despite its small size. The Himalaya Range forms the backbone of Nepal and provides arguably the best mountain scenery in the world. However, there’s far more to Nepal than mountains and the country’s national parks and unique architecture provide a wonderful contrast to the wild landscapes.

A year ago, the Sacred Valley of the Incas experienced devastating amounts of rain that damaged villages and cut off the ancient citadel from the outside world. Machu Picchu was closed for two months and visitor numbers to Peru plummeted. However, many used this downtime to take stock and make much needed improvements. Here our specialists take a look at the new developments.

The enormous sand dunes of the Namib are a place of spectacular, timeless beauty. The other-worldly Dead Vlei is a photographer’s dream - especially at sunrise or sunset.

Uruguay is a little-known country that rarely hits the headlines and has somehow managed to keep its delights under wraps. A quick poll in the non-Latin American sections of our office came up with Fray Bentos corned beef and the footballer Diego Forlán as its most famous exports, neither of which are really reason to visit. However, there is much more to this tiny South American country.

Audley's Costa Rica specialist Oonagh Mallinder explains why travelling to Costa Rica during the ‘green season’ can be a very rewarding experience.

North Africa and Arabia specialist Harry Ring explains why the fascinating history of Jordan and Jerusalem makes his photos even more powerful.

Planning a wedding can be pretty stressful but your honeymoon however, should be an opportunity to relax, celebrate and explore. At Audley we aim to take the stress out of the planning and can arrange a unique combination of destinations, activities and romantic hideaways.

Gardens and gardening seem part of the DNA of the British so it's not surprising that when we are abroad we are often drawn to them. With this in mind we have scoured the world to find our top ten horticultural oases.

Despite its small size Sri Lanka is an incredibly diverse island covered in tropical forests and lush tea plantations, home to some top-notch cuisine and blessed with a fascinating history and culture. But its the profusion of different habitats and altitudes which means that wildlife enthusiasts can spot a great variety of flora and fauna without having to travel long distances.

Audley clients, Valerie and Raymond Gatward, travelled to Hong Kong and Cambodia with Audley in November 2010.

We asked our country specialists to create a special collection of unique honeymoon ideas.

Audley client, Nick Steidl, travelled to Cambodia with Audley in November 2010.

Audley's Costa Rica specialist Oonagh Mallinder explains why travelling to Costa Rica during the ‘green season’ can be a very rewarding experience.

Audley clients, Les and Lorraine Forrester, travelled to northern Vietnam with Audley in October 2010.

One of Audley's South Africa country specialists, Rob Philips, travels down Route 62 from Franschhoek to Oudtshoorn.

Audley clients, Amanda and Steve Rencontre, spent three days at the beautiful Borneo Rainforest Lodge. Read their diary account of those few unforgettable days.

From the glorious jungle-tangled temples at Angkor to the lush mountain-fringed white sand beaches of the south and the little-visited villages of the north, Cambodia has our Southeast Asia team hooked.

The Northern Territory is the wildest and most diverse of Australia’s eight states and territories. We asked some of our Australia specialists for their favourite experience of the Territory and this is what they chose.

Perhaps the greatest natural icon of North America, Niagara Falls, which straddle the Canadian-American border, attracts over 12 million visitors each year.

Author and journalist John Gimlette heads for Java, to discover an island of awesome beauty

David Peckett, John Driskell and Les Sims travelled with Audley on their return visit to Nepal.

In an age when most are now acutely aware of the impact we're having on the planet and its resources, Responsible Travel is coming to the fore as a major consideration when choosing accommodation.

As the approaching winter begins to make its mark on the British landscape, we've taken a look at some other destinations around the globe that boast spectacular autumn scenery.

We organise trips all over the world and, we will admit, sometimes concentrate a little too much on the more ‘A-list’ destinations. To redress the balance we look at one of the more off-the-beaten-track destinations but which would still be of interest to the more intrepid Audley traveller. With this in mind we look at Bolivia.

A late Easter weekend in 2011, followed by the May Bank Holiday means that you can take just four days out of the office to enjoy an 11-day-long break. Take a look at our Easter trip ideas for a little inspiration.

Waterfalls always hold a special fascination as you watch millions of gallons of water crash over some rocky precipice. We've scoured the globe to find 10 of the most spectacular and which you could see as part of an individual tailor-made itinerary.

A melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European culture, Malaysia is a fascinating place to explore with a rich tapestry of colonial architecture, a vibrant, multi-cultural society and some of the best food on the planet. Patrick Chase gives his insider tips on what to see and where to go for that perfect trip.

In 2009 Costa Rica topped the Happy Planet Index, reporting the highest life satisfaction in the world, and, once you’ve visited this beautiful and diverse land, it’s easy to understand why.

Located around 2,450 metres above sea level and nestled on a small plateau in the centre of the Andes, the majestic city of Machu Picchu is easily the most iconic of all Incan ruins in Latin America.

The verdant slopes of China’s mountainous southwest have for centuries boasted some of the country’s most productive tea growing areas. We explore some of the main trading routes of this region.

The Canadian Rockies offer undoubtedly some of the world’s most breathtaking natural scenery as well as some of the best wildlife spotting in Canada.

Lonely Planet author and sometime Audley Tour Leader Nick Ray looks back on 15 years of travelling in the kingdom of Cambodia.

Volcanoes can be surprisingly accessible, some even offering the possibility of reaching the crater rim and looking inside to the tumult below. Others are less so, but all are in locations which normally offer sublime views. We showcase 10 of the best and which you could see as part of an individual tailor-made itinerary.

From rooftop hot tubs overlooking bustling cityscapes to a sparkling infinity pool pouring into an emerald lagoon, some of the best hotel pools are made so by the breathtaking views that they command.

If you've explored a destination on land, why not spend a few days exploring the underwater part of it? A whole new world is waiting to be discovered just beneath the waves.

Just off the coast of Queensland in Australia are the islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Some are tiny specks, others little more than sandy cay swirls, crowded with seabirds, but all are spectacular and worthy of their UNESCO World Heritage status.

While hotel bathrooms may not top the list of priorities for most people when planning a trip, there are some that offer much more than a place to freshen up before dinner. The following bathrooms combine style with unsurpassed views, so much so that you may never want to get out of the tub!

Whether you’re a serious wine buff, teetotal, or simply enjoy the odd tipple, winegrowing regions are always fascinating places to visit.

Some of the world’s most beautiful, ancient and iconic destinations are well known for good reason, but this popularity usually means that crowds of tourists and sightseers vying for space are a common sight.

A night spent under canvas or open to the night sky with the stars for company is the stuff of dreams. Here we choose our top 10 experiences from across the Audley programmes.

Harbours, a place of haven for boats in stormy weather, can also provide some wonderful vistas. Here are our top ten Harbour views.

One of the greatest building feats of all time and quite rightly a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we take a closer look at the Great Wall of China.

Vancouver Island is located off the West Coast of mainland Canada. At 290 miles in length and 50 miles wide, it is the world’s 43rd largest island and a place that manages to condense most of the highlights of Canada. Audley's Canada team pick out their own personal highlights of the island.

Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world and one of the most diverse, with a huge array of landscapes, people and culture. Discover our top tips for the best places to go on a first-time visit to this magnificent country.

Evolution has thrown up some odd but also some impressive looking plants and trees over time. Here's a small selection which you might consider making a detour to see during your Audley trip.

A hot air balloon ride can be the highlight of any trip as you drift silently over stunning landscapes and scenery. Here is a list of our favourite hot air balloon journeys that can be experienced on a trip with Audley.

Aoraki, or Mount Cook, stands at an impressive 3,754 metres tall and lies in the Southern Alps the mountain range that breaks through the length of the South Island. It is here that many visitors to the country have caught their first glimpse of the dramatic peaks that the South Island has become so renowned for.

Sometimes, trips are remembered for experiencing something a little out of the ordinary. Urban landscapes and buzzing metropolises offer an interesting insight into a country's way of life, but delve a little deeper and you may just discover a side of the country seen by very few.

The small, leaf shaped island of Taiwan is an ideal choice for those who are looking for a largely undiscovered destination packed with culture and sensational scenery. Chris Moore, one of Audley's Taiwan Specialists explains why Taiwan is Asia's best-kept secret.

With many clients choosing to travel for two weeks, due to work constraints or other reasons, we have created a breakdown of the perfect 14 days to spend in some of our favourite destinations. Marc Dolman discusses his perfect 14 days in Japan.

Some of the most exhilarating walks take place along stretches of the world's coastline. This list includes some of our favourite coastal walks that are just waiting to be explored.

Hear the early morning chanting ritual of Monks in Thailand, or visit Lang Cave or Deer Cave at dusk to witness the bats emerging in their shadowy hordes. There are many ways in which you can awaken the senses on a trip with Audley.

Scoured out by water erosion, gorges come in all ages, shapes and sizes but they all have one thing in common - they never fail to impress. We showcase 10 of the world's lesser known gorges.

Terry Sullivan has been leading Audley group tours for over 16 years. After returning from his final tour for Audley, he shares with us a few passages from his tour diary.

Rebecca, Mexico Specialist, discovers the magnificant Copper Canyon in the north of Mexico.

James, our Canada and Alaska Programme Manager, invites you to join him on a gastronomic journey of discovery to Canada’s "belle province", Québec.

Audley client, Clive Harber, describes his trip to Papua New Guinea.

Audley's Chile experts break down the attractions and share a few of their own personal highlights from their travels to the region.

Country specialist, Fiona explains why Alaska is one of the most rewarding destinations to visit.

Lucy Harrison talks about why the shoulder season is an ideal time to experience New Zealand at its most tranquil and beautiful.

Kirsty, our Botswana Specialist, gives a first hand account of the recently reopened Caprivi Strip in Namibia.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise on a traditional rice boat on the Backwaters and admire the beautiful scenery.

Discover more about Australia's varied landscapes through the first-hand experience of an Audley Australia specialist.

In July 2009, a total solar eclipse will occur across parts of India, Nepal and Bhutan, crossing well known cities such as Maheshwar and Varanasi. Book now to combine your trip with one of nature's most awe-inspiring sights.

In July 2009, a total solar eclipse will occur across parts of China. Book now to combine your trip with one of nature's most awe-inspiring sights.

Bhutan is a fascinating country with a unique culture and people, as well as stunning scenery which can all be seen in our 'Visions of Bhutan' slideshow.

To be able to experience genuine settler life away from the bright lights is rare indeed, but joining the Great Australian Outback Cattle Drive for a few days allows you to do exactly that.

Follow an Audley itinerary which includes some of the highlights of comedian Billy Connolly's new TV series which sees him journey through Canada's Northwest Passage.

With the pound so strong against the rand there has been no better time to visit South Africa and experience everything this wonderful country has to offer.

Dan Snow travelled with Audley to New Zealand in January 2009 – find out more about his experiences of this culturally fascinating and scenically beautiful destination.

This six-part series on BBC 2 documented explorer Bruce Parry's epic journey down the mighty Amazon river and the fascinating people he met on his way.

This three-part series on BBC 1 brought an international team of scientists, climbers and wildlife film-makers to Guyana to document its wealth of natural scenery and wildlife.

Combine exhilarating helicopter flights and walking in otherwise inaccessible parts of Canada's beautiful Columbia mountains.

This six-part series from the makers of 'Planet Earth' documents China and Tibet's wealth of natural scenery and wildlife on BBC 2.

As part of our commitment to charity, we invited a group of clients to join a fundraising trek to the summit of Morocco’s Mount Toubkal.

Our favourite national parks have been chosen because they are particularly special; either for their abundance of wildlife, stunning natural scenery or simple 'wow' factor. Take a look at our selection below and see if you agree.