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See the very best of Greece on this 15-day guided tour that traverses land and sea

Bask in the splendors of the ancient world on this 15-day Greece tour. Explore the Acropolis and the Arch of Hadrian in Athens. See where the Olympic Games began in 776 B.C at the Temple of Zeus and in the city of Mycenae, take in the giant Cyclopean stones. Thessaloniki’s markets tempt you with regional delicacies and a local beekeeper invites you to tour his family-run honey farm. On the romantic isle of Crete, stroll medieval towns and get up close and personal with archaeological finds.

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Start Athens, Greece. End Chania, Greece.

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Tours that average 33 guests and no more than 40.

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Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

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Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNSECO sites and places of cultural significance.

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Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

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Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

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A world beyond. Hassle-free planning, regional Tour Directors & Local Guides, Handpicked hotels and inclusions, seamless transportation, VIP access, and rare Local Favourites that go beyond the guidebook. 

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Cruising Elevated. Cruise on Suite Ships with the widest stateroom views from your window-facing bed. Relaxed luxury flows throughout the ship in every detail plus personalise with Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions.

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Undiscovered Tours

Less travelled. equally loved..

Open the door to the undiscovered treasures of the world – the coasts without crowds, the towns without traffic, and the nooks without noise. Our exclusive collection of Undiscovered Tours in Europe and North America lead you off the beaten piazzas and onto the cobblestones and trails less travelled, getting you up close to the untouched, unspoiled, and unexpected discoveries that are nothing short of extraordinary.

Undiscovered Europe

Discover the tucked away towns and the roads less travelled with an Undiscovered Tour in Europe! From the hidden havens of Italy to the secluded villages of Spain, experience iconic must-see sights along with unknown gems you might otherwise miss if you didn’t know where to look.

Undiscovered Britain & Ireland

Say, "Cheerio", to typical tours for a better, brilliant way to explore the smashing sights of Britain and Ireland. From winding paths to windswept cliffs, we invite you to discover authentic hamlets and highlands you might not yet know about, or places you wouldn’t think of visiting on your own.

Undiscovered North America

Between North America’s breathtaking national parks, cool emerging cities, and tiny historic towns, there’s a surplus of sights you haven’t seen. With bucket-list holidays from Canada to Cali and Yakima to the Yukon, we invite you to discover the undiscovered in the United States and Canada.

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Discover more ways to travel., choice touring, escapes by globus, multi-country tours, view our globus 2024 & 2025 worldwide touring guide.

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About Undiscovered Destinations

We are an award-winning groundbreaking adventure travel company, offering truly authentic experiences in some of the world’s most exciting regions. We offer a unique range of travel destinations, travelling in small groups with a maximum of 12 people on each tour. Our focus is on in-depth cultural travel experiences, getting you ....more

We are an award-winning groundbreaking adventure travel company, offering truly authentic experiences in some of the world’s most exciting regions. We offer a unique range of travel destinations, travelling in small groups with a maximum of 12 people on each tour. Our focus is on in-depth cultural travel experiences, getting you off the beaten track to discover more, where only local drivers and guides are used. We are dedicated to providing unique tours which explore countries and areas not on the map of mass tourism. What’s more, there are no local payments to consider, airport transfers are always included on arrival and departure days, and we have highly experienced UK based sales advisors with firsthand knowledge of all of our tours. ....less

Reasons to tour with Undiscovered Destinations

Multiple award-winning tour operator

Expert advice and first-hand knowledge

No local payments and airport transfers included

Small Groups with a maximum of 12 people and an average of just 6

Specialists in Adventure Travel since 2004

Pioneers in travel to destinations such as Somaliland, Eritrea, Bangladesh and more...

Since 2004, Undiscovered Destinations has been taking intrepid travellers on our small group tours and tailor-made holidays. Join us as we explore the culture, history and wildlife of some of the most off the beaten track countries and regions on the planet.

Since 2004, Undiscovered Destinations has been taking intrepid travellers on our small group tours and tailor-made holidays. Join us as we explore the culture, history and wildlife of some of the most off the beaten track countries and regions on the planet. ....less

Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2014, 2016 and 2018 - Top Tour Operator British Travel Awards - Best escorted Adventure Travel Company - Silver 2014 and 2020

Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2014, 2016 and 2018 - Top Tour Operator British Travel Awards - Best escorted Adventure Travel Company - Silver 2014 and 2020 ....less

Sustainability

We limit the amount of departures for each of our itineraries. Unlike other operators who will try and sell as many groups as they can and then pull from operation after 12 months, at Undiscovered Destinations we feel a commitment to the places we visit. We understand the investment that is ....more

We limit the amount of departures for each of our itineraries. Unlike other operators who will try and sell as many groups as they can and then pull from operation after 12 months, at Undiscovered Destinations we feel a commitment to the places we visit. We understand the investment that is put in to facilities by the local business people. We know that the promotion of a destination can take years of hard work before it will to come to fruition. Our aim is to work in a sustainable way with local people. Undiscovered Destinations understand our groups visit areas where local culture can be quite fragile and easily influenced by outside factors. Our hope is to avoid as much as possible the phenomenon whereby an area changes in character due to repeated and prolonged exposure to tourism. We want to visit an area as friends, not intruders and to ensure that what we see will also be there for others to enjoy for many years to come. ....less

What We Offer

An Undiscovered Destinations group tour is not a luxury style holiday. We class our style of travelling as small group adventure tours. We also offer this style of travel as tailor-made holidays, and if luxury is your thing, then consider one of our tailor-made holidays that we can upgrade for ....more

An Undiscovered Destinations group tour is not a luxury style holiday. We class our style of travelling as small group adventure tours. We also offer this style of travel as tailor-made holidays, and if luxury is your thing, then consider one of our tailor-made holidays that we can upgrade for you. ....less

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How we're working to make you feel COVID-safe on your trip

For an Undiscovered Destinations trip to be viable during the Covid-19 pandemic, we run a full assessment taken in conjunction with our local partners to ensure we can provide your trip in a safe and an enjoyable manner. Every country is implementing its own set of guidelines and regulations (such as ....more

For an Undiscovered Destinations trip to be viable during the Covid-19 pandemic, we run a full assessment taken in conjunction with our local partners to ensure we can provide your trip in a safe and an enjoyable manner. Every country is implementing its own set of guidelines and regulations (such as standardised cleaning practices, face-mask requirements etc) to minimise risks associated with Covid-19. As a minimum we will follow and implement all such requirements. While we cannot offer a 100% guarantee that not a single client will contract Covid-19, we can assure you that we will take all reasonable steps as part of our duty of care to both you and our local team abroad. There are links on our website to the internal procedures and protocols that Undiscovered Destinations and our local suppliers will be following during the Covid-19 pandemic. These can be found here - https://www.undiscovered-destinations.com/covid-19-travel-information ....less

Undiscovered Destinations Reviews

Very many thanks to Mark Huggins at Undiscovered for helping us to arrange a private tour of the best of cape Town/ wine lands followed by an unforgettable safari in Greater Kruger Park. Having been on safari before we can say that this part of the holiday was really exceptional with regards to Marks knowledge of location whilst also very good value for money. We will certainly be back for our next big holiday!

Albania Explorer

We had a fantastic time touring the length and breadth of Albania. Despite Covid it actually felt like we were doing normal things for the first time in a long time! Amazing scenery, ancient towns and ruins, fabulous hotels and food and so cheap - we can't believe Albania isn't on more people's radar. This is the 2nd time we've travelled with Undiscovered Destinations and both times they've offered full flexibility in terms of changing dates. On this occasion we also switched to a different tour & country only a month beforehand - we were originally booked to go to Lebanon in 2020 and postponed to 2021, but we were offered full flexibility with our plans (go, postpone again, refund or book something else). Knowledgeable & helpful staff and great value for money. Highly recommend.

Oman - Desert to the Coast - Small Group Tour

7 days travelling around the north of Oman with a small group. Muscat, turtles, forts, beautiful whaddi's, dhows, deserts, souks, abandoned villages, a "Grand canyon", jaw dropping mosque, sunset cruises. I could go on - just a brilliant country if you fancy an adventurous, well organised trip - heartily recommend the country and the tour operator.

We had a fantastic tour of Madagascar with this company, really detailed itinirerary with lots of variety including animals, scenery and time to relax. The hotels they booked us into were not what we requested and all transfers private which was unnecessary. Other than that, great!

Had the most wonderful holiday in Madagascar with Undiscovered Destinations. Everything was planned very well, and to say it was stunning would be an understatement. I found it particularly relaxing knowing that all the details were taken care of. We had a detailed itinerary, with a mixture of animals, scenery, and history. Excellent and will definitely be organising another trip with this company.

Superb anthropology and ethnographic paradise found in Ivory Coast

Fantastic cultural tour with diverse experience of multiple tribes in Western Africa. Undiscovered Destinations offers a very nice package of tours to Africa and other countries

We did an Undiscovered Destinations tour to Burma and it was excellent. When looking into trips we found most of the tours offered by the larger companies to be very similar. We wanted something different. This was our 3rd trip with UD, and we're already looking at number 4!

Discovering Albania

Travelled to the lesser explored Albania. Destroyed and rebuilt be successive conquerors, Albania is a gem. Exquisitely fertile, with a long and varied history. A generous country with a comfortable pace to travel. Efficient, responding to queries quickly. Well organised.tour.

An immersive tailor made trip in lesser travelled parts of India staying in heritage hotels with superb wildlife experiences

With a car and driver we travelled through Rajasthan and Gujarat , staying at beautiful hotels and experiencing varied local life . We visited temples and with local guides explored udaipur, Mount Abu and the temples of palitana. We had a number of jeep safaris to spot leopards, lions and wild ass, each safari a magical experience. Undiscovered destinations, worked with us to tailor make our trip based on a group tour they run. We were keen not have only one night anywhere and ensure the travelling each day was restricted to half a day. We gave a budget we could afford and they came up with an amazing experience, with one driver and being joined by local guides where appropriate.

We booked through UD for our first family worldwide trip to Sri Lanka. We have always been keen travellers, and what an introduction for our 6 year old son, to the amazing world of travel. The destinations, the recommendations, the guide, the itinerary, the balance, all was faultless for a memorable trip. The sound knowledge given by the UD consultant was what made us book, and on returning from the trip, has given us the confidence to book again. WE as a family are back on the travelling circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m a single traveller – will i feel out of place.

In a word, no. We get a good mix of single travellers and couples on our group tours.

Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

We are happy to allocate a twin room to two single same-sex travellers. If there is no one else to travel

We are happy to allocate a twin room to two single same-sex travellers. If there is no one else to share with then a single supplement will be applicable.

Can I join the tour once it has departed?

No, sorry this is not possible.

What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

We offer fully transferable group tour deposits (excluding any flight payments which are always non-refundable). You can change your group tour booking up to 10 weeks before departure and not lose your deposit – we will put your deposit towards any new group booking as long as you travel within 2 years of the original departure date.

Can I alter the tour?

On our scheduled departures this isn’t possible, simply due to the fact that you’ll be travelling with other people. However, if you like the look of one of our advertised trips but want to tweak it slightly, then we can offer tailor made itineraries just for you, to accommodate your specific requirements.

Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

There are no hard and fast rules about what type of people travel on Undiscovered Destinations’ group tours – we attract people from all ages, nationalities and walks of life. What you are likely to find though is that travellers share a similar outlook about travel. We tend to attract people with a curiosity about the lesser visited corners of our planet.

How long has the tour company been trading?

We have been going since 2004.

Book With Confidence

Free date changes.

Undiscovered Destinations allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.

Transfer as credit to Future Tours

Undiscovered Destinations allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform Undiscovered Destinations, 70 days before departure.

Low Deposit

Undiscovered Destinations requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your tour, tourhub doesn't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of Undiscovered Destinations charges.

Secure payments

All payments are deposited into an externally regulated Trust account.

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A world beyond. Hassle-free planning, regional Tour Directors & Local Guides, Handpicked hotels and inclusions, seamless transportation, VIP access, and rare Local Favourites that go beyond the guidebook. 

Adventure is knocking. Turn “never thought I would” into “glad I did” with a budget-friendly tour that includes all the essentials plus a great mix of included excursions and free time. 

Cruising Elevated. Cruise on Suite Ships with the widest stateroom views from your window-facing bed. Relaxed luxury flows throughout the ship in every detail plus personalise with Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions.

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Go off-the-beaten-path in Europe and North America

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Experience some of the world's best train journeys

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The world's within reach with these value-based tours

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Adventure is Served

Airy national parks, diverse international cities, charming towns and idyllic islands... America has it all. From New York to New Orleans and the Grand Canyon to the Golden Gate Bridge, traverse one or more of the USA’s breathtaking regions on an escorted Cosmos tour. Visit the famous memorials in Washington DC, marvel at Yellowstone’s vast natural landscapes, get your kicks along Route 66, and relax on one of Hawaii’s tranquil beaches.  

USA Highlights

Yellowstone national park.

Theodore Roosevelt once described America’s first national park as a “great solemn cathedral, far vaster and more beautiful than any built by the hand of man”. Explore the park’s pristine landscapes, including the iconic “Old Faithful” geyser. In addition to superb mountain scenery, the park is one of the world’s principal wildlife preserves and a photographer’s paradise.

Iconic, laid-back Key West lies only 145 kilometres from Cuba and is the southernmost town in the continental United States. Spend two nights here and board the Key West Trolley – where local expert guides will lead you though the town’s colourful history. Highlights include the historic Old Town, bustling Duval Street, and the picturesque waterfront.

Washington DC

The nation’s capital is a sightseeing treasure trove, and your half-day tour with a Local Guide features Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, Arlington National Cemetery, National WWII Memorial, and other iconic sights. Have your camera ready for a photo stop at the White House!

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Launched in 2012,  Country Travel Discoveries  handcrafts unique, off-the-beaten-path vacation experiences across the U.S. and abroad. One of the best parts about CTD is the dedication we put into building tours. Unlike our competitors, we don’t plan our trips from behind a computer - we’re always either out traveling to a destination or speaking with local contacts on the ground. The CTD team is incredibly energetic and passionate about making sure every detail is taken care of before you ever step foot on a plane or motorcoach. All you need to do is book and enjoy!

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20 undiscovered destinations to visit before anyone else

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on March 12, 2019 |

We backpackers love discovering new places and experiences… but admit it, you love it even more when you’re the first out of your friends to experience a new place, right?! The thrilling sensation of reaching an unknown, undiscovered destination is addictive, and it only takes one look at the 20 photos below to see why.

Come with us on a journey to these 20 undiscovered holiday destinations before everyone else catches on!

1. Dominica Island

If you’re a big fan of nature and the colour green, you’re bound to fall in love with this lush, mountainous island nation. Nicknamed the ‘Nature Isle of the Caribbean’ thanks to its unspoilt beauty, it’s said that if Christopher Columbus sailed the Caribbean in 2019 the only island he’d recognise would be Dominica! Highlights include stunning tropical rainforests, the Morne Trois Piton National Park and its roaring Boiling Lake, the charming Emerald Pool waterfall and the Champagne Reef – named after its bubbling currents caused by an underwater volcano!

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2. Bazaruto Island, Mozambique

📷  Brandon Stovold

Known as ‘The Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, the island of Bazaruto feels like somewhere between heaven and earth. This amazing destination off the coast of Mozambique has stunning landscapes that have been eroded by the Limpopo River and the ocean to form a paradise of dunes, corals and hammocks suspended in the middle of the piercing blue sea!

Stay at Baobab Beach Backpackers , HOSCAR winner of the best hostel in Mozambique 2019  –  it’s just a short boat ride from Bazaruto.

3. Meteora, Greece

📷   Pixabay

Athens, Santorini and smashing plates might be the first things that spring to mind when you think of Greece. However, the UNESCO site of Meteora in Thessaly is a place that needs to be added to your bucket list IMMEDIATELY. Here you’ll find immense natural pillars with six Orthodox Christian monasteries proudly sitting on top. This unique wonder is reachable via train from Athens to Kalampaka within 5 hours.

  Find your hostel in Kalampaka

4. Kamchatka, Russia

Russia is a country with so much still undiscovered by backpackers. The immense nation of tsars and vodka is where you’ll find the volcanic Kamchatka Peninsula, located in the Far East. This scenically dramatic region offers stunning trekking routes bypassing beautiful national parks, as well as the largest active volcano in the northern hemisphere, the Klyuchevskaya Sopka. It’s an other-worldly environment that needs to be seen to be believed!

This tip is way ahead of the travel curve, so there are no hostels yet in Kamchatka! But head to the nearby cities of Khabarovsk or Vladivostok and book a tour from there.

5. Hidden Beach – Playa Del Amor, Mexico

📷  @TommyBene

There’s no doubt about it, Mexico has some of the best beaches in the world. We all know about Cancun and Baja California, but what about the Marietas Islands? This small archipelago is easily accessible from the coastal town of Puerto Vallarta. It’s home to an array of marine life, and with an ocean water depth of between 70 and 110 feet it makes for a prime diving spot. Here is where you’ll find Playa Del Amor, a hidden cove born from a huge crater in the heart of the island!

Okay, this might not be totally undiscovered… you may have already spotted it on your Instagram feed. But by Mexico standards tourist numbers are few, and it’s so cool we just had to include it.

 Find your hostel in Puerto Vallarta

6. Isfahan, Iran

Khaju Bridge  📷  @Ninara

Salam doostam! Chetori? (Hello friend! How are you?) Backpackers have begun flocking to Iran to experience the hospitality of its people and the pure tranquillity and beauty of its towns and cities. Magnificent Isfahan is the cultural centre and former capital of Iran. Its boulevards, bazaars and crowded squares centre around the Mosque of the Imam, whose enormous blue dome dominates the city. Its unique colours and intricate details are sure to enchant every traveller!

Find your hostel in Isfahán

7. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

📷  Danielle Pereira

Brazil is the nation of carnaval, samba and surreal landscapes in the form of vast jungle and white sandy beaches. Brazil’s natural beauty is on display in every mile of the country, and the state of Maranhão is no exception. It’s here you’ll find the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, where during the rainy season (from January to August) lakes of emerald green emerge between the rolling sand dunes. This contrasting scenery will take your breath away.

Find your hostel in nearby Barreirinhas

8. Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan

📷  Mashrik Faiyaz

Legend has it that in the 8th century, Guru Padmasambhava flew on the back of a winged tiger more than 3000 metres up a mountain in the valley of Paro, Bhutan. Once there, he meditated for three years, three months, three weeks, three days and three hours, before beginning the construction of the seven temples that make up Taktshang, AKA Tiger’s Nest. Due its precarious location it takes around five hours to hike there and back, surrounded by untouched scenery. It’s undoubtedly one of the most exciting places to visit in Bhutan!

To visit Tiger’s Nest, you’ll need to stay in the town of Paro, which is where the country’s only international airport is located.

9. Jaffna, Sri Lanka

📷  Louise Burton

In 2009, the end of the Sri Lankan civil war resulted in the country opening its arms to tourism, firmly cementing Sri Lanka as a backpacker favourite. However, the north remains largely unexplored by travellers due to the post-conflict reconstruction of the area. It’s an area largely influenced by India, with crystalline blue waters, delicious food and colourful temples, and nowhere is this better explored than in the vibrant city of Jaffna.

Find your hostel in Jaffna

10. Roatán, Honduras

📷   Erin Simmons

In the Honduran Caribbean are three postcard-perfect gems known as the Bay Islands, with the most beautiful being Roatán. If you love diving and hiking then you MUST make it out to its dreamy beaches, corals reefs and mystical jungles. Honduras doesn’t yet draw in as many travellers as other Central American nations, but it’s set to become a backpacking hotspot of the future. Hurry up and explore Roatán’s pristine shores before everyone else finds out!

Find your hostel in Roatán

11. Fusterlandia – Havana, Cuba

📷  Steve Rushing

Havana is one of the most vibrant cities in the world, so it’s no surprise that there are incredibly charming places to be found beyond the typical tourist circuits. One of them is located in the humble neighbourhood of Jaimanitas and is known as Fusterlandia. It’s characterised by the extensive public art installations of local artist Jose Fuster, AKA the ‘Picasso of the Caribbean’. Sculptures of magical beings intertwine through swimming pools and stairs, creating an unmissable, colourful sight to behold!

Find your hostel in Havana

12. Musandam Fjords, Oman

📷  Robert Haandrikman

Oman is a country in the Persian Gulf, of which little is known to the average traveller. But hey, we’re no average travellers! Just recently this mysterious country has begun to attract international attention thanks to its monumental cities, vast deserts and its star attraction, the Musandam Fjords. Here you can kayak along turquoise waters surrounded by ochre mountains, and even snorkel and swim with wild dolphins!

Find your hostel in Oman

13. Caño Cristales, Colombia

📷 Fotur Colombia

This river in the Colombian Serranía de la Macarena should be considered the eighth wonder of the world in our humble opinion! Walk along the river to discover beautiful waterfalls and quiet areas where rare local flora is left to bloom in its full glory. Between late July and early November, Caño Cristales takes on its iconic yellow, red, green and black hues as a result of the ‘macarenia clavigera’, an aquatic plant that transforms this magical river beyond our wildest rainbow-filled dreams.

Find your hostel in La Macarena

14. Montreal Botanical Garden, Canada

📷  Yves Ouellette

During summer the multicultural, bilingual, vibrant city of Montreal truly blossoms. If you liked the movie Edward Scissorhands, we bet you’ll be interested in the Montreal Botanical Garden, an urban jungle packed full of interesting topiary and colourful plants. Gaze in awe at the lanterns of its Chinese Garden or discover the rock creatures waiting in the Alpine Garden. It’s far too easy to lose a day just strolling around the grounds!

Find your hostel in Montreal

15. Derweze, Turkmenistán

📷  Tormod Sandtorv

Some people say hell doesn’t exist, but we may have found a gateway to it. Welcome to Derweze, the fiery attraction of the lesser travelled Middle Eastern country, Turkmenistan! It’s an underground crater filled with an unusually high percentage of natural gas that’s been burning non-stop since an engineering accident in 1971. With many scary nicknames including ‘mouth to the underworld’ (yikes), it’s no wonder travellers are becoming intrigued to see this phenomenon for themselves.

Yet again, we even beat the hostels to this spot… but watch this space 😉. It is however possible to camp in the nearby desert!

16. Island Ishigaki – Okinawa, Japan

📷  Hayato Shin

Beyond Kyoto’s temples and Tokyo’s futuristic neighbourhoods lies so much more to Japan. For starters, Okinawa’s wonderful islands are a paradise of green cliffs and turquoise blue beaches. Ishigaki’s perfect shores wouldn’t look out of place in The Caribbean, and sights like the stunning Kabira Bay are a backpacker’s delight!

Find your hostel in Okinawa

17. Boa Vista, Cape Verde

📷  Martin Widenka

Most travellers to the archipelago of Cape Verde, located off the west coast of Africa, venture no further than the island of Sal. While lovely, this more-touristy destination is a total contrast to Boa Vista, an island of sea turtles, dreamy beaches and colourful villages surrounded by the glistening Atlantic. This paradise is the perfect place to unwind for a few days and enjoy a totally chilled pace of life.

Find your hostel in Boa Vista

18. Belleville – Paris, France

📷  Jeanne Menjoulet

As Thomas Jefferson said, “a walk about Paris will provide lessons in history, beauty, and in the point of life.” True dat! Paris is one of the most visited and romanticised cities in the world, but there are more places to fall in love with than the Eiffel Tower or Montmartre. Slip under the radar and pay a visit to Belleville, a neighbourhood that’s becoming one one of the city’s most vibrant areas packed full of culture and charm. Stroll around admiring its street art and enjoy some tasty crepes at any of its hipster hang-outs. This is the other side to Paris that most tourists haven’t found out about yet!

Find your hostel in Paris

19. Matera, Italy

📷  Giulia Gasperini

Italy is full of must-see places: the awe-inspiring Rome, the artistic Florence or the latest Instagram sensation, Puglia. But we’re all about trend setting, not following, so we’re focused on the city of Matera in the ‘sole’ of the Italian boot. It’s home to the Sassi, a series of caves that are carved into the mountainsides and house museums, bars and restaurants. It’s a city quite unlike any other!

Find your hostel in Matera

  20.  Antarctica

📷  Christopher Michel

The snowy seventh continent remains an enigma to travellers. Most Antarctica adventures begin in the port of Ushuaia, Argentina’s most southern city, and continue through the land of vast whiteness, icebergs, glaciers and spectacular mountains. It’s not the easiest destination to visit, but the breathtaking views and total serenity that await at the end of the earth make this voyage worth the while. We bet not many of your mates have ticked this off their bucket lists yet?!

Have you ever been to one of these undiscovered holiday destinations? Do you know of any other incredible places yet to be touched by travellers? Let us know in the comments!

About the author

Alberto is a Spanish writer and storyteller always in search of new adventures. He loves to write about tropical, colourful and unusual places.  You can find him on Instagram at @albertopiernas.

Keep reading:

🌟  25 places to visit before you turn 25

🌟  The most remote places in the world to add to your bucket list

🌟  Unbelievable places in the world that actually exist

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Undiscovered Balkans

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Hiking & Trekking

Traveled in June 2023

• Introduction
• Day 1 Join trip in Tirana
• Day 2 Cable car up Mount Dajti and free afternoon in Tirana
• Day 3 Border crossing to North Macedonia and drive to Lake Ohrid
• Day 4 Explore Lake Ohrid and Saint Naum Monastery
• Day 5 Explore Matka Canyon, discover Skopje and drive to Pristina
• Day 6 Walking tour of Pristina, visit the splendid Monastery of Gracanica and continue to Peja
• Day 7 Explore the Peja Highlands and the church complex of Peja Patriarch
• Day 8 Visit the Decani Monastery on the way to Prizren
• Day 9 Wine tasting in Rahovec and visit to a Serbian enclave village
• Day 10 Discover Gjakova and drive to the Valbona Valley in Albania
• Day 11 Alpine hike in the scenic valley and meet a local shepherd's family
• Day 12 Scenic journey through Kosovo to Shkoder
• Day 13 Drive to Durres via Skanderbeg tomb, enjoy the evening by the Adriatic Sea
• Day 14 Trip ends in Durres

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.6
• Itinerary Excellent 4.7
• Guide Excellent 4.9
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• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Excellent 4.1
• Tour Operator Explore! 4.5
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• A Phil · 1st May 2023 Kruja - the magnificent scenery/history/bazaar. The best food on the trip was in the Panorama restaurant. Our time in Ohrid was also magificent. Trip date: April 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Aimee · 17th June 2023 Lake Ohrid and the stop off before Tirana to the village of Pellumbus and the guesthouse were my personal favourites. Trip date: June 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Michael · 20th June 2023 We really enjoyed hiking the Valbonë Valley, which was utterly magical. The Serbian Orthodox churches in Kosovo, particularly the Dečani Monastery, were fascinating and beautiful. Prizren was a beautiful city to relax in, and we enjoyed our time... Show more Trip date: June 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Bob · 20th June 2023 lots of Variety Trip date: June 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Jane · 1st July 2023 Scenery was spectacular. The swimming in Lake Ohrid was wonderful Trip date: June 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A ROBERT · 1st July 2023 So many highlights, the program varied Trip date: June 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Jill · 5th August 2023 Lake Ohrid was beautiful and gave us a chance to swim and relax. The old town was stunning. The Valbona Mountains were beautiful and the hike was lovely. Trip date: July 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Dieu · 6th August 2023 Kosovo Trip date: July 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Rich · 8th August 2023 House in the Village. Hotel Vila Dini Trip date: July 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Fiona · 16th September 2023 The hikes, walking tours, good company and a knowledgeable guide throughout. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Explore!

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Young Pioneer Tours

Undiscovered Transnistria Tour

Transnistria, officially known as the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic, is the unrecognised de facto state located between Moldova and Ukraine. Last of the true Soviet States with its own flag (which bears the hammer and sickle) – Young Pioneer Tours will take you deep into the country that doesn’t exist, to experience a genuine Soviet state within Eastern Europe. This tour has been specially created to highlight what daily life was like during the mighty Soviet Union – in terms of ideology and Soviet relics, little has changed.

Join us on an epic tour to Transnistria! 

Your adventure begins in the least visited capital in Europe – Chisinau. Here, you’ll see the impact of capitalism on a former Soviet Republic. We’ll visit and explore key sites containing hidden Soviet relics against a backdrop of brutalist architecture – Chisinau has so much to offer and is incredibly underrated. 

The journey continues into Transnistria – a real step back in time. For a state that doesn’t officially exist, you’ll be using its currency, its cafes filled with Soviet memorabilia, travelling in vehicles with its own registration plates and dancing along to retro Soviet rock music with the locals! 

What makes YPT stand out from the rest is that we don’t only explore Tiraspol (the capital of Transnistria), we’ll delve into towns and cities where foreign nationals rarely visit, including the Northern region of Grigoriopol, Dubăsari and Ribnita. We’ll delve into the South and visit Chiobruchi and Dnestrovsk. You’ll also experience travelling with locals in the Marhrutka to Bender and enjoy the night life in the Balka district. We’ll show you Soviet bus stops, mosaics and memorials from various conflicts as part of your adventure. However, the best are the Soviet era restaurants and bars frequented by the locals, who are always happy to see guests.  

Come join us on our Undiscovered Transnistria tour and experience the country living in the true Soviet Union.  

Wednesday 2nd October – Chisinau 

• Arrive at your own leisure into Chisinau – the capital city of Moldova, is well connected with many European and Middle Eastern countries and the Caucasus. Self-transfer to our centrally located Soviet hotel. Pre-tour accommodation can be arranged for your convenience (for a fee).
• Pre-tour meeting will be held at the lobby of our hotel at 7:30am to discuss tour itinerary and to meet your fellow travellers and YPT guide.
• Your journey begins with exploring an abandoned Soviet sports centre, we’ll enter the complex discreetly and head into the former nightclub and auditorium before heading to the top floor to admire the morning views. Before we leave you’ll get to see the largest and arguably the most stunning Soviet mosaics in Moldova – the complex is soon to be demolished and forgotten.
• Once we’re ready and captured some eerie photos we’ll head to a café and grab a coffee and pastries. Our local guide will be ready and waiting for us at 9:00am, with a brief introduction before we start to explore this beautiful, un-touristy and underrated European city.
• Your journey will feature historical events and vital figures in Moldavian History. We’ll enter a memorial complex dedicated to the brave soldiers who lost their lives during Great Patriotic War and the recent conflict with Transnistria – In true traditional Soviet style the memorial depicts scenes of battle to victory and a prosperous future under the red star of communism.
• The walking tour continues into the Military Museum where you’ll find scattered military hardware from various ages. This includes tanks, fighter jets from the Cold War and cannons used against the Ottomans.
• Along the way, we’ll meet Moldova’s national hero, Stephen the Great, who features on the local currency. The tour concludes outside the Presidential Palace, initially intended to be used for the Supreme Soviet of the Moldavian SSR.
• After learning much about the history of Moldova and the impact of socialism on the country, we’ll head to a restaurant which serves hearty Moldavian cuisine – we recommend trying Sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and Borscht (traditional soup) and maybe a swift glass of beer.
• We’ll continue to explore Chisinau’s Soviet history with your YPT guide, by the visiting the abandoned Chisinau Circus the Komsomol monument before heading back to the hotel to relax and freshen up. Along the way, we’ll head into the central market to see a beautiful mosaic and grab a beer with the friendly locals.
• Once everyone’s ready we’ll head up to the National Hotel, built during the peak of the Soviet era. The hotel was used by the KGB for espionage purposes to spy on guests but is now deserted and a shell of its former glory – it’s also a great spot to enjoy the views overlooking Chisinau and appreciate the brutalist architecture over the sunset.
• We’ll head out for dinner to the best steak house in the city, and for those inclined, a few refreshments at a speakeasy bar.
• Overnight stay in Chisinau.

Thursday 3rd October – Chisinau – Tiraspol 

• Breakfast at our hotel before our schedule ahead.
• Our morning begins at 9:00am where we’ll meet our Transnistria fixer for instructions and guidelines we must follow during our time in the breakaway republic of Transnistria.
• We’ll head off for a 2hour road trip where we’ll stop at a gas station to pick up supplies – please note this will be last time you’ll be able to use your bank cards until we return. Along the way we’ll stop at a Soviet bus stop dedicated to space exploration – these relics are slowly disappearing in former Soviet republics.
• Once we reach the border, we’ll disembark our vehicle for passport control, before we head into Transnistria – please remember it’s prohibited to take photos during immigration control.
• On arrival to Tiraspol, we’ll check into our hotel to quickly freshen up before our walking tour of the de facto state capital city.
• We’ll need to exchange our money for the local currency at the bank. Your guide will be happy to explain the current exchange rate and estimate of what you should exchange – although prices have gone up in recent years it’s still a relatively cheap compared to Western cities.
• Keeping to the Soviet theme, we’ll head to the CCCP café for lunch – a typical stolovka with a selection of hearty cuisine surrounded by USSR memorabilia.
• Once we’re ready we’ll walk into Tiraspol – One thing you’ll notice is how clean, friendly and structured society it is. We’ll start off by the epic statue of Russian General, Alexander Suvorov – who founded the capital in 1792. You’ll be seeing the General throughout your trip, as he features on much of the currency and is considered a national hero.
• We’ll find the numerous flags on flying – the Russian Federation and Transnistrian flags alongside the flags of each district of Transnistria. Opposite are the flags of Transnistria and the breakaway brotherhood states of Abkhazia, Nagorno-Karabakh and South Ossetia. What’s most interesting is the large national emblem – your guides will explain the meaning behind it.
• Like every town and city, we’ll visit Lenin standing outside the government building – this statue is currently the tallest outside Russia. We’ll continue down October Street, visiting the Eternal Flame Memorial complex dedicated to the Soviet-Afghan war, WW2, Transnistrian Civil War and Chernobyl nuclear accident. Opposite the Flame is the battle-damaged T-34 monument from WWII. You’re permitted to climb on it and get an awesome photo.
• On our walk along October Street, we’ll pass the Abkhazia and South Ossetia embassy. We’ll also pass by some beautiful Soviet era architecture and the impressive House of Culture, with a bust of Lenin waiting outside – we’ll take a customary group photo here.
• We’ll visit the University and see the memorial dedicated to the students and teachers who fell during the Great Patriotic War. Something that’s not so Soviet is the statue of Harry Potter and Hedwig, located opposite.
• Our walk will end up at Gagarin Boulevard. Here we’ll see a bust and a massive mural of Yuri Gagarin – pilot, cosmonaut and the first man in space. It’s easy to remember those facts but his achievements were celebrated worldwide, despite the tensions during the past (Cold War) and recent times.
• We’ll then switch it up and board an old Soviet ferry without an engine and cross the Dniester River to see how the village people live, across from Tiraspol – this is an area truly lost in the USSR!
• We’ll visit a still-functioning palace of culture with an enormous head of Lenin outside, pockmarked with Kalashnikov bullet holes after Moldovan troops symbolically executed him during the Civil War.
• Next, we’ll then visit a stunning and completely self-sufficient monastery complex that must be seen to be believed. We know many of the priests there and sometimes, they allow us to sample their incredible homemade wine. However, this is subject to whether the one priest with the key is available on the day.
• For dinner we’ll head back to Tiraspol to YPT’s favourite restaurant Back in the USSR – the owner is a personal friend of the guides and always accommodates the YPT group. The restaurant has loads of Soviet-era memorabilia and there will be music. Those inclined to a Soviet disco and beverages are welcomed to stay!
• Overnight stay in Tiraspol.

Friday 4th October – North Transnistria

• Early morning start, we’ll have breakfast before we make our way to rural towns of Transnistria before exploring the industrial capital of the North, Rîbnița.
• Once we’re ready, we’ll start our road trip to Grigoriopol – along the journey, we’ll make a stop at Toshlick to see the impressive Soviet memorial dedicated to various branches of the military in the Great Patriotic War. Locals here still maintain the memorial – some that is lost in other former Soviet Republics.
• Once we arrive in Grigoriopol, we’ll have some time to explore the various sights that the small town offers. Here, you can find a Lenin statue and various war memorials – however for those who are keen, your guide will show you an impressive mosaic, tucked away behind the markets.
• We’ll have lunch in Grigoriopol, where there are various small stores selling tasty Eastern European snacks.
• Once we’re ready we’ll start making our journey to Dubăsari. Along the road trip, we’ll stop off at a tank memorial – The Barrow of Glory. The memorial commemorates the four soldiers who lost their lives within the tank while liberating Dubăsari from the German-Romanian invaders. Ultimately the crew lost their lives within the tank, which fell into the Dniester River from a bridge during a fierce battle.
• On our arrival to Dubăsari, the third largest city in Transnistria, we’ll begin our walking which will include various key sites, including a peaceful memorial located in the park, a functioning stadium built during Soviet times and of course, an impressive Soviet mosaic!
• We’ll take you to a very isolated Soviet music college that is still actively used. It has a large and beautiful Lenin outside and a perfectly intact giant Soviet emblem.
• Next, we’ll visit the hydroelectric dam controlled by the Russian Army. The area is of strategic importance, hence why there is a heavy military and hardware presence.
• The best way to meet locals in this rural isolated town is at the local bar – we’ll be stepping back in time while we’re having a few refreshing drinks in this beautifully preserved Soviet-era establishment.
• We’ll continue to Rîbnița also commonly known as Rybnitsa, along the journey we’ll stop at a beautiful Soviet bus stop and signage for a group photo. Your guide will explain the history and art work of these Soviet relics.
• On arrival to Rîbnița we’ll head straight to the impressive cathedral before we walk around the memorial park, dedicated to the Great Patriotic War. The scenery is impressive, with Soviet memorials alongside the cathedral and communist apartment blocks in the background.
• We’ll make our way into the heart of Rîbnița to see Lenin standing just outside the city hall, before visiting the largest Soviet mosaic in Transnistria. To celebrate our adventure to the North, we’ll have a glass of Divin!
• Once we’re ready, we’ll make our way to Tiraspol, we’ll make rest stops along the way before we arrive late in the evening.
• Dinner at local restaurant followed by drinks at a Soviet disco!

Saturday 5th October – South Transnistria

• Early morning start, we’ll have breakfast before we discover the Southern region of Transnistria, Chiobruchi and Dnestrovsk.
• We’ll head out to an old Soviet Water Park and explore the complex and learn about its use during the Soviet era and how it’s perceived by locals nowadays.
• Continue to the Opera House, like many officials buildings, you’ll find a Lenin standing outside. Although it’s not permitted to enter, we’ll try our luck to enter.
• We’ll continue and explore an old Soviet Beach Resort and Fishing Village, with hundreds of old Soviet Dachas on stilts in the water. Little has changed since 1950 and it’s always great interacting with the locals here, as they’re not use to tourists.
• Nearby is one of the largest working Soviet power plants in the world, we’ll learn about the history and its significance during the Soviet era and in present times.
• We’ll have a picnic lunch enjoying the scenery, for those inclined can have a few drinks from the local store.
• Once we’re ready, we’ll start making our way back to Tiraspol, along the journey we’ll stop at a Soviet bus stop before heading to a local store to pick up some drinks for our Soviet garage party.
• On our return, located in the outskirts residential area we’ll visit a veteran’s from the 1990 war private garage. The veteran’s a long-time friend of YPT and we’re always welcomed here to see his large collection of Soviet memorabilia. These include guns, uniforms and many more!
• After a busy day we’ll head out for dinner at a local restaurant.

Sunday 6th October – Bender

• Leisurely morning start, we’ll have breakfast before we make our way to Bender, the second largest city in Transnistria and the only one located west of the Dniester River.
• Today we’ll have an authentic Soviet experience and head to Tiraspol train station. Local buses (Marshrutka) operate from here and we’ll take the next one to Bender. It’s not uncommon for locals to strike up a conversation as they’re both curious and happy to see tourists travelling alongside them.
• On our arrival, we’ll explore the city walking to the renovated and well-maintained train station. You’ll notice that there’s are no trains – it’s an empty ghost station. There are Soviet monuments and an old Soviet train from WWII, with the hammer and sickle on the front, very few locals come here which makes it great for a photo opportunity.
• We’ll continue down the street until we come across Lenin standing opposite the local cinema. It’s a great place to grab a coffee and enjoy the Soviet interior while having modern movies posters. Along the tour you’ll see the government buildings still bearing the bullet holes left from the Civil war – a reminder for those who are quick to forget.
• For lunch, we’ll head to Soviet theme café – there are many nostalgic memorabilia here including controversial pictures of Stalin. We recommend trying cuisines popular with locals including chicken liver and boiled potatoes. There are plenty of vegetarian options also.
• We’ll continue on our walking tour to the House of Culture, the stunning building has historical significance to the local community. Although it’s not permitted to enter, we’ll try our luck and check out the impressive interior of the building.
• After a busy morning we’ll grab a Marshrutka back to Tiraspol. On arrival we’ll your YPT will take you to our favourite bookshop, to pick up some Soviet and Transnistrian nationalist paraphernalia – perfect place to acquire your Transnistrian flag and fridge magnet! Your guide will take you to an official Kvint store, you can find the best collection of divin at cheaper prices. You’re guide will explain the special series of divin and relevance to Soviet history – although these collections are not cheap they’re heavily underrated and great value. A perfect gift or for you to take back home and enjoy!
• Once we’ve picked up our gifts we’ll head back to the hotel to relax and freshen up.
• For dinner, we’ll head to Balka district – 5 years ago there was only a shop here amongst the Monument to Aviators, now the district is full of life with restaurants, bars and cafes. We’ll head to local bar for great food and beer!

Sunday 7th October – Tiraspol – Chisinau

• We’ll have a relaxing morning breakfast before we depart our hotel. We’ll leave our bags in the secure storage room after we check out.
• As it’s our final morning in Transnistria, we’ll head to The Nativity Church, the largest church in Tiraspol before passing through a large open air market, it’s a great place to take photos. We’ll continue to head to the flea market, here you can purchase Soviet era memorabilia at cheap prices.
• We’ll make a stop at a hidden local bar in the market for cup of coffee or divin and reflect on our journey throughout Transnistria.
• Once we’re ready after picking up our souvenirs, we’ll head to a Sheriff store one final time, to pick up snacks for our journey back to Chisinau and to exchange our Transnistrian Rubles back to Euros/USD.
• Once we arrive to Chisinau at 15:30pm, the tour concludes – YPT can arrange additional nights in Chisinau and are more than happy to provide advice for ongoing flights or trains.

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When it comes to spending money in Transnistria, your credit card is largely useless. There are a tiny fraction of ATMs that will accept Western cards but we don’t recommend using them. In breakaway states, cash is king! Thankfully, there are plentiful …

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• Start Date : October 2nd 2024 End Date : October 7th 2024
• Price : €595
• Duration: 5 nights, 6 days

Tour Highlights

• Discover and experience Transnistria cities and towns and marvel at the beautifully preserved Soviet era relics, from bus stops to mosaics!
• Step back in time and meet genuine friendly locals during your adventure in cafes and bars, not much has changed from Soviet times!
• Discover Chisinau, the least visited European capital and explore the hidden and abandoned Soviet era buildings, soon to be lost!

Inclusions and exclusions

• Twin bed / Triple bed accommodation
• All transport discussed in itinerary
• Entrance fees (unless otherwise stated)
• Full visa support
• Local & YPT guide
• International flights
• Single supplement (€200)
• Travel insurance
• Lunches, dinners & drinks
• Personal expenses
• Tips to the drivers & local guide

We have expert guides ready to help answer any questions you may have.

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• Heart of the Cotswolds Small Group Tour
• Cotswolds Private Tour – Classic Itinerary
• Cotswolds Customized Private Tour
• Cotswolds and Blenheim Palace Private Tour
• Cotswolds Private Tour from London
• Cotswolds Private Tour from Bath
• Cotswolds & Afternoon Tea at Manor House
• 2-day Private Tour from Southampton
• Southampton Tours

The Cotswolds has some of the most stunning scenic areas in the UK and many of these are little known or visited even in the summer. Take one of our Cotswolds private tours and we will show you the best places only the locals get to see. Whether you are looking to visit the “classic” Cotswolds sights or you want to get off the beaten track and find the undiscovered gems of the area, we can take you there.

Designing your Itinerary

The beauty of a private tour is the flexibility it gives you to see the sights which interest you the most.

Our Cotswolds private tours are fully personalised tailor-made tours to suit you. So whether you would like to see the local wildlife, explore an undiscovered village or visit an old manor house we can create a trip to match.

Below are some of our favourite places to visit, but these are just for inspiration as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.

Great Tew –  Over 1000 years old and a true hidden gem of the region. This beautiful village has a fascinating history and really gives you that feeling of escaping the modern world.

Chastleton House –  Chastleton House is a fascinating Jacobean time Capsule: built (between 1607 and 1612) by a wealthy wool merchant, the house has hardly changed since then.  The same family owned the house right up until 1991 but with steadily diminishing wealth were never able to update or alter it.

Sarsden and Churchill  – A stunning setting overlooking the site of the ‘lost’ village of Churchill which was destroyed by fire in 1684. This is now the home of many famous celebrities.

Stow-on-the-Wold –  one of the prettiest towns in Gloucestershire steeped in history and built by the Normans, it combines honey-coloured buildings, cosy pubs, narrow streets, interesting shops and tiny tea rooms.

Lower Slaughter – The word Slaughter comes from the old English word for ‘miry place’.  However, don’t let the name deceive you as this village is considered to be one of the prettiest villages in the Northern Cotswolds and is set in the most amazing countryside. Lower Slaughter has also been voted as the most romantic village in the country. Cotswolds private tours can allow access into villages like this where vehicles with more than 8 passenger seats cannot enter.

Bourton-on-the-Water – Otherwise known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ is one of the most famous Cotswolds towns, and is regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England.  There is plenty to see and do with a wealth of attractions, shops, restaurants and tea rooms.

Burford –  Burford’s famous High Street sweeps downhill towards the River Windrush, with an unbroken line of ancient houses and shops, as well as a medieval bridge and an impressive church. Burford is known for its shopping – particularly antiques – and for the wide variety of restaurants, pubs and teashops.

Swinbrook –  Swinbrook is a small village on the River Windrush with the famous Cotswold stone walls, a pretty church, cricket pitch with wooden pavilion, and an old stone pub next to a bridge across the River Windrush.

Asthall –  For a small village, Asthall has a rich history. From the former Roman settlement on Akeman Street, which linked Cirencester with St Albans, to the the village church dating back to the 12th century, possibly earlier, and an Elizabethan manor house which was home to the Mitford sisters.

Minster Lovell –  This pretty village on the River Windrush boasts plenty of Cotswold stone and thatched roofs, as well as holding the title of being the region’s most haunted village. Minster Lovell is perhaps best known the ruins of its 15th century hall, owned by generations of the Lovell family.

Authentic Cotswold Farm –  Eighty percent of the Cotswolds is made up of farm land. You’ll get to visit our good friend, Michele, and be treated to an up close and personal experience at her fantastic farm, Southdown Farm.

Help the local wildlife habitat – We work closely with a local charity called the Wychwood Project and during our tours we’ll show you some of the fantastic projects we’re working on with them. You’ll even have the chance to get involved if you’d like to. We can spend a few minutes helping to preserve the local habitat. Projects include rebuilding fallen Cotswolds dry stone walls or collecting seeds, which will be planted at a later date.

Or mix things up with one of the following additions:

Blenheim Palace, Stratford, Warwick Castle, Oxford or Bath

Or if you still can’t decide:

Join us on our classic itinerary which we have developed to create the perfect mixture of destinations

Useful Information

Our Cotswolds private tours are available seven days a week, subject to availability.

For a cost of £495 a group of up to eight people get a day touring the Cotswolds starting from your hotel in Oxford or anywhere in the North Cotswolds. We would then drop you back to your hotel at the end of the day.

If you would rather be picked up up from London then £750 would be the group price. If you come from a local town or city please contact us. We are very flexible!

Any extra hours will be charged at £60 per hour.

If you decide to add Blenheim Palace, Warwick Castle or one of many other attractions requiring entrance tickets, then we can happily organise these but the ticket price will be added to the tour cost.

To book one of our Cotswolds private tours simply click below and we will be in touch very shortly to help tailor your tour.

We accept payment via Credit Card, Paypal or wire transfer.

What’s Included?

Included in our Cotswolds private tours:

• A completely tailored experience of the Cotswolds and or nearby areas
• A modern comfortable air conditioned vehicle
• Led by a local driver guide
• Complete control over the design of your day
• Tour additions like Blenheim Palace, Warwick Castle or many others can be added
• Hotel pick up/drop off from anywhere in the Cotswolds, Stratford, Oxford, Bath or London
• We are proud to support ‘One Tree Planted’. So with every booking made, we will donate to allow one tree to be planted

Not included in this tour:

• Entrance fees to attractions
• Food or refreshments
• Gratuities.

How to get here?

Our Cotswolds private tours have flexible starting times, and we can collect you from anywhere in the Cotswolds, Stratford, Oxford, Bath or London. The tour is ideal for a day trip from any of these areas.

If coming from London then the easiest and cheapest option is to take a train direct from London Paddington to Oxford. From here we can pick you up for free. From here we can pick you up for free! The website we recommend for train tickets is Trainline .

However, if you wish to make things easier and less stressful then we can pick you up and drop you off from anywhere in the region including London. Please note that pick-up and drop-off outside of the Northern Cotswolds and Oxford will incur an extra fee which are listed below.

Additional transfer costs

Stratford-upon-Avon – £60 each way

Bath –   £60 each way

London –  £125 each way

If you have any questions about transfers from outside of one of these areas then please send us an email or give us a call.

How much do our Cotswolds private tours cost?

From Oxford or nearby areas £495 for a seven hour tour. Each hour is charged at £60ph. Please see the ‘How to get here?’ tab for more information if coming from a different location. The tour can be as long as you want. The shortest tour we normal run would be 6 hours. However, we do recommend 7 hours to be ideal.

Can we design our individual tour?

Yes between us we can decide where you would like to go.

What is the minimum/maximum people on the tour?

From one to seven passengers.

Can I be picked up from London/Bath/Stratford?

We can collect from any of these areas but there is an extra fee. Please see the ‘How to get here?’ tab for more info.

Where does my tour start from?

Your tour can start from anywhere in the region of the Cotswolds or any nearby town or city including London. We can collect your from the anywhere in the North Cotswolds or Oxford for free.

If coming from further away like London then the cheapest option is the train into Oxford. Otherwise we can happily collect you ourselves for an extra cost.

Can I add in notable attractions like Blenheim Palace or Warwick Castle? Or do a tour of a local city like Oxford or Bath?

Yes that is no problem at all. In fact many of these combine ideally with a tour of the Cotswolds. However, any extra entrance fees will be added to the cost of your tour.

What are the payment arrangements for Cotswolds private tours?

We require full payment at the time of booking. We accept all major credit cards, Paypal or wire transfer.

Do you have a cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy is 100% of the cost charged for cancellations within 48 hours prior the tour. 50 % of the cost is charged for cancellations 3 – 7 days before the tour. For cancellations given 8 days and greater before the tour then we charge a 5% cancellation fee.

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Undiscovered Cotswolds Homeland St Johns Rd Oakley Basingstoke RG23 7JN

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Experience North Korea

Over 15 years of Safe and Premium Tours to North Korea

The North Korea Experience

“Seeing is believing” they say in North Korea. We invite you to gain a different perspective of the country by experiencing its people, touching its landscapes and learning about its rich culture and 4,000 years of history. Our tours show you the complexity and hidden beauty of this undiscovered country.

Featured Tours

The dprk classic – new years eve special – 5 nights.

Join us in Pyongyang for the 2024/25 countdown on this extended tour of North Korea for New Year’s Eve and beyond! This special tour will see you on Kim Il Sung Square alongside thousands of locals for New Year festivities, which [...]

The DPRK Highlights – Party Foundation Day Special – 4 Nights

In this special 4-night tour of North Korea, join the festivities of Party Foundation Day on October 10 including a mass dance, and discover the highlights of this fascinating country! We’ll tour the major political sites in Pyongyang and take a [...]

Ski and Snowboard North Korea – Kim Jong Il Birthday Special – 7 Nights

This is your chance to ski the fresh-power slopes of North Korea! See the grand monuments of Pyongyang, visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), spend time at the Masikryong Ski Resort, and be in the capital for the major festivities [...]

Why Book With Us?

15 years of experience.

Our tours are authentic and cultural with a sense of adventure. We promote education and understanding, providing a platform for people-to-people engagement. We have brought thousands of people to experience the uncharted territory of North Korea with us.

Premium Accommodations

A tour to North Korea is certain to be packed with activities and the importance of a good nights rest and reliable facilities and amenities cannot be overstated. Our packages include prestigious accommodations at standard tour rates, not second-class lodging and basic guest houses in remote areas.

All-Inclusive Packages

There is no add-on pricing. Our published package price is what you pay. Our tours are an all-inclusive experience of return flights between Pyongyang, DPRK visa, premium accommodations, vetted meals, air-conditioned transport and driver, English-speaking Korean guides, entrance fees and unparalleled service!

Small Group Size

Our group size cap is smaller than our competitors to maximize your engagement with our local guides. Unless otherwise stated, our group tours are capped at a maximum of just 12 while maintaining standard tour rates.

Expert Local Guides

Our tours are led by some of the best local guides in the country. They are native North Koreans with a passion for showing visitors the beauty of their nation. All guides speak fluent English. We can even arrange local guides that speak Chinese, Spanish, Russian, French and German!

Unprecedented Access

We offer some of the most unique tours available. We offer family visits, cycling, skiing, marathons, surfing, and golf, all designed to maximize interactions with locals. We want you to experience the culture, the people, the landscapes and the history of North Korea.

Pyongyang is North Korea’s capital and largest city. An ideological stronghold of imposing architecture and grand monuments, Pyongyang is the beating heart of politics, economy, culture, and tourism in North Korea.

The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a buffer zone separating the Korean Peninsula, acting as the de-facto border between North Korea and South Korea.

Mt. Myohyang

Mt. Myohyang is one of North Korea’s most beautiful nature reserves, weaved with rewarding hikes and dotted with ancient relics.

Kaesong, the ancient capital of the Koryo dynasty, is abundant with well-preserved UNESCO sites and cultural treasures. Situated near the South Korean border, Kaesong has played a crucial role in inter-Korean relations.

Wonsan is a charming seaside town on North Korea’s east coast famous for its immaculate yellow-sand beaches and fresh seafood.

Nampo is an industrial port city and key trade gateway to Pyongyang located at the estuary of the Taedong River on the west coast.

Pyongsong is a satellite city of Pyongyang and a developing hub of science and technology often referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley’ of North Korea.

Hayden Peters from Australia

One of the best customer experiences of my life, superb, safe and easy.

Coen Scott from Australia

To put it simply, my experience with Uri Tours was the best money I’ve ever spent on recreation. The larger part of every day was spent seeing new and unique locations, my personal favorite was the ‘Palace of the Sun’. (I mean, how many people outside of the DPRK can say they’ve seen Kim Jong Il’s mummy.. right!?) The hotel where we stayed was great! Friendly staff, clean facilities, good food and it also featured a multitude of shops and services, including but not limited to; a tailor, a bookstore, an art shop, a pool, a bar, a bowling alley and a masseuse!

Conner Brenner

My trip to North Korea was one of the most fascinating experiences of my life. I was fortunate enough to visit the country with my grandfather who was 78 at the time. Due to his age and his physical disabilities, there were a lot of potential issues that needed to be discussed prior to the trip taking place. The team at Uri Tours were incredibly helpful and courteous during this process. Every concern was addressed, and nearly every email I sent the company was responded to on the same day. I felt like I was being treated with the utmost professionalism.

Tara Mina Bayati

The trip was amazing and far exceeded my greatest expectations. I am sure all of the local guides are great, but I truly cannot imagine anyone better than the ones assigned to us. They could not have been more phenomenal and I felt genuinely sad saying goodbye to them at the airport. This was truly an experience of a lifetime which was made possible by Uri Tours. I would highly recommend them to anyone interested in visiting the DPRK!

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THE URI STORY

A pioneering Korean-American family set out to explore the other side of their roots. What they found were people similar to them with a unique culture, rich history and distinct way of living. We have been offering safe and premium tours and travel to North Korea for over 15 years for international travelers.