International Expeditions Adds Botswana, Zambia, Amazon

International Expeditions is expanding its 2009 line-up with several new off-the-beaten-path adventures. International Expeditions’ mission “to stimulate an interest in, develop an understanding of, and create an appreciation for the wonders of our Earth” is fulfilled on each of its unique explorations. Founded in 1980, IE specializes in journeys for curious and adventurous travelers, delving deep into the nature, history and cultures of places visited.

Each is carefully planned and led by experienced, knowledgeable and friendly expedition leaders and naturalists. Long recognized as a pioneer of environmentally and culturally responsible travel, International Expeditions is committed to preserving natural habitats and improving the welfare of the people and communities it visits.

New for 2009 is the four-in-one 12-day Botswana and Beyond itinerary, which in addition to the majestic Victoria Falls, takes travelers on an adventure through Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. While gliding in mokoros across Okavango Delta lagoons, hippos, crocs and elephant herds are observed during a river safari.

For those who’d like to concentrate their time in the pristine parks of Zambia, IE has a new 12-day itinerary in 2009. The journey offers travelers an exclusive safari experience including stays in two premier national parks where they can view and learn about Africa’s Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard), as well as zebras, crocodiles, hyenas and hippos.

The Zambia safari has three departures in 2009, with per person rates starting at $7,698 for June 8 and June 15 departures and $8,398 for Oct. 12. Prices are double occupancy, and include accommodations, most meals, ground transportation, entrance fees, transfers for group flights, and tips to porters and to waiters for included meals. In-country flights and international airfare are not included.

Organized by International Expeditions as in-depth, interactive learning experiences, two Peruvian rainforest educational workshops recreate the Amazon Workshops first offered by the company in 1992. In Earth’s greatest classroom, participants discover a new depth of rainforest exploration and conservation alongside a renowned botanist and local expert naturalists.

The nine-day program is packed with enriching sessions spanning botanical medicine, rainforest ecology and cultural survival of the rainforest people and community. Hands-on projects like planting trees or helping paint a village school are also featured.