Culture Tours

The Northumberland coast is best known for its sweeping sandy beaches, rolling dunes, high rocky cliffs and isolated islands. The special qualities of this coastal landscape led it to being designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1958 recognising that the Northumberland coast is one of the finest landscapes in the country.

This 64 miles walk takes in probably one of the finest sections of coastline in England. Part of the 'North Sea Trail' you will follow the Northumberland Coast Path from Cresswell in the South to Berwick upon Tweed in the North.

The route follows the coast in most places with an inland detour between Belford and Holy Island. Most of the route is on footpaths and bridleways but in some places beaches, minor roads and permissive paths are used.

The route is generally level with very few steep climbs and makes for a superb walking holiday in Northumberland.

Self-guided Walking Holiday along the Northumberland Coast Path From Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed over 7 days giving you plenty of time to explore some of the sights on route.

Walk the best preserved sections of Hadrian’s wall, beginning in the market town of Brampton, and continuing to historic Corbridge Roman Town. Visit world famous forts and museums: Vindolanda, Birdoswald, Housesteads, & Chesters. Admire the architectural splendor of Aydon castle, Thirlwall castle and Lanercost Priory. Spot the famous Robin Hood’s Tree at Sycamore Gap. Travel through the centuries walking along Hadrian’s Wall, the best-known frontier in the Roman Empire.

Highlights

• Walk the best preserved sections of Hadrian’s wall, beginning in the market town of Brampton, and continuing to historic Corbridge Roman Town.
• Visit world famous forts and museums: Vindolanda, Birdoswald, Housesteads, & Chesters.
• Admire the architectural splendor of Aydon castle, Thirlwall castle and Lanercost Priory.
• Spot the famous Robin Hood’s Tree at Sycamore Gap.
• Travel through the centuries walking along Hadrian’s Wall, the best-known frontier in the Roman Empire.

This tour explores the stunning rich and verdant green landscape of Kerala. We experience charms of an old trading port; take a houseboat cruise on its backwaters and spend relaxing downtime by the beach. The itinerary begins with a two-night stay in Kochi with a sightseeing tour exploring its long heritage and some outstanding architecture. We then travel to the coast for a memorable houseboat cruise through Kerala’s famous backwaters, a lush green water world of great beauty, before the tour concludes with a two-night stay at the enchanting seaside resort of Mararikulam.

Highlights

• Fort Kochi, with its grandiose colonial architecture and laid back tropical charm.
• The backwaters, a picturesque network of canals, lagoons and lush greenery.
• Houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey.
• Mararikulam, a serene and tranquil beach destination

Adventure across the Yucatan Peninsula from the tropical beaches to the colourful cities. Lose yourself among ancient Maya ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, and head to the bustling street markets before finding yourself in clear waters and turquoise lagoons of the coast. Learn about the Maya culture in colonial Merida, experience a traditional meal with a family, and then take the plunge in Bacalar: a laidback lake town famous for its ever-changing shades of blue water. Thousands of years of history mixed with a modern, laidback lifestyle means Mexico, and the Yucatan in particular, should be high on everyone’s bucket list.

Our tour is an interesting experience into culturally enchanting and verdant landscapes and charms of tropical South India. We explore ancient Hindu temples and lavish palaces; enjoy picturesque hill walks; see exotic wildlife in its natural habitat; and relax on a houseboat while cruising through the famous Kerala backwaters.

Highlights:

• Watching wild elephants and tigers in national parks in Bandipur, Madumalai and Nagarhole.
• Riding the toy train through the hills.
• Exploring Munnar hill station famous for its picturesque tea gardens.
• Experiencing old seaport of Cochin.
• Riding the boat on Periyar Lake.

St Cuthbert's Way follows the story of a 7th century saint who travelled through Scotland and northern England, spreading the Gospel and performing healing miracles. Beginning at Melrose, where the saint started his ministry, and ending at Holy Island where he ended his days, the trail passes through scenery of great variety and beauty.

The walk takes in heather-clad hills, tranquil riverbanks and old Roman roads, visiting attractive villages and border towns along the way. Particular sites of interest include the ruin of Dryburgh Abbey, Cessford Castle, St Cuthbert's Cave and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, complete with its ruined abbey and spectacular castle.

We offer multiple holiday options along this trail—follow the link or get in touch for more information.

The North Downs have acted as a highway since before Neolithic times, but became busier following the murder of Archbishop Becket in 1170. By the eighteenth century the term 'Pilgrims Path' referred to ancient trackways in the south of England used by pilgrims journeying to Becket's shrine. Although these routes radiated from Canterbury they did not include the path taken by Chaucers' pilgrims in the Canterbury Tales but were prehistoric tracks used by pilgrims travelling to or from the continent via Dover along the Via Francigena. The principal pilgrim route ran between Winchester and Canterbury, much of which is now busy with traffic and therefore is no longer a viable walking route. Nonetheless, our route, a section of the North Downs Way, does coincide with some of the places that Chaucer's pilgrims visited and parts of the Pilgrims Path marked on maps. Overall, this is a walk through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with beautiful views below you across the 'Garden of England'; as well as a historic route leading to England’s most eminent Cathedral City.

The Hadrian's Wall trail is quite simply a walker’s paradise with its stunning landscapes and sense of history, from the bloody border feuds of the Border Reivers to being home to Europe’s largest surviving Roman monument, Hadrian's Wall.

May 2003 saw the opening of the Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail, an 84 mile unbroken walk from Wallsend (Segedunum) in the east to Bowness-on-Solway (Maia) in the west. It passes through some of the most beautiful parts of England, from rolling fields and rugged landscapes to the vibrant cities of Newcastle and Carlisle. The walk skirts a number of fascinating Roman sites including Birdoswald Fort, Walltown Quarry, Great Chesters Fort, Steel Rigg, Vindolanda, Housteads Fort, Brocolitia Fort, Chesters Fort and Segadunum, as well as numerous Roman turrets and milecastles.

Although the earlier and latter sections of the walk are relatively flat with some undulations, the middle section can be quite demanding with some steep gradients and uneven ground. You will need to have a good level of fitness and be a regular walker.

Shepherds Walks Holidays offer a range of self-guided and guided walking holidays along Hadrian's Wall National Trail from a 6 day short break on the highlights of Hadrian's Wall right through to a fully guided trip along the full length of the trail. We also deliver 5, 6, 7, 8 and 10 day self guided trips so you can walk the trail at your own pace.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek takes you to the foothills of the Annapurna mountains within a short time. The route is easy and ideal for novice trekkers and families traveling with kids. Hike past terraced paddy fields and rhododendron forests. Walk alongside mule trains and horses. Stay overnight at traditional teahouses run by local families. Experience a magical sunrise and Himalayan panorama from Poon Hill, the most popular viewpoint in the Annapurna Region. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers you some of the best views of the Himalayan range. Within a short span of over a week, you get to walk under the foothills of the sacred Annapurnas. Enjoy close up views of the snow-capped peaks. Walk along a trail dotted with traditional Gurung and Magar villages; home to brave Gurkha soldiers. Experience their unique culture and enjoy their warm hospitality. With Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) guarding the trail, make your way across forests of pine and rhododendron. A spring trek will have you walking along paths splashed with red and pink rhododendron blooms.

The Mohare Danda trek is a combination of hiking on a less trodden part and a popular trail of the Annapurna range. The first half is a lovely alternate Annapurna trek that is off the beaten path. Compared to the Ghorepani tour, the first part of the trail is relatively new and still unknown to many other trekkers.

It is a great way to promote sustainable eco-tourism in Nepal while supporting local community projects. The community projects are designed to play a vital role in the inhabitants’ lifestyle’s overall upliftment.

This trek is also known as the Eco-Community Lodge trek. It is an excellent choice for those enthusiastic travelers who have a short amount of time. It is a perfect combination of experiencing the absolute cultural and natural beauties of Nepal. You get to admire the close views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Mohare Danda, which is at an elevation of 3,300m.

An added advantage of this trek is that you can enjoy the sunrise and sunset views over the glittering mountains right with the comfort of the lodge’s dining room.

One of the most popular treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Sanctuary route takes you from verdant hills to a spectacular glacial basin. Stand under the inspiring Annapurna Massif at Annapurna Base Camp. These sacred mountains are revered as gods. In addition, a hike to the village of Ghorepani and its viewpoint Poon Hill adds flavour to this classic itinerary. From the vantage point, enjoy a three-sixty degree panorama of the Annapurna mountains.

The circuit of Mount Manaslu (8,156 meters) is gaining popularity rapidly. Mount Manaslu is the eighth highest mountain in the world. Part of the Manaslu region’s trails was restored after it was damaged by the massive earthquake of 25th April 2015.

The local name for Manaslu is Kutang – Spirit Mountain. The government of Nepal only opened the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route to tourists in 1991. We start this trek by either taking a private Jeep to Macha Khola to begin the trek.

The trail begins with narrow valleys with tropical vegetation hiking along the Budi Gandaki River. Parts of the path are small with loose rocks used as steps, and several places can be potentially dangerous, especially when you encounter passing caravans of mules.

We will pass through Machi Khola, Jagat, Ghap, Lho Gaun, and Samagaon with impressive views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and other smaller peaks of 6,000 meters. We spend an extra night at Samagaon to acclimatize to the altitude.

You will notice the change in the landscape becomes austere as we begin to gain altitude while at the same time, Hindus in the lower valleys, and now you see Buddhists in the higher elevations.

We cross over Larke La into the District of Manang. Once we reach Dharapani, we are on the main Annapurna Circuit trail. Dharapani is where the Manaslu Circuit trek ends; we drive back to Kathmandu in a private jeep.

Annapurna Circuit Trek, a classic trek in the Nepal Himalaya, takes you to one of the world's most popular trekking trails. A favorite of many trekkers who have been to the Himalayas, hiking the Annapurna Circuit allows you to complete a loop in the Annapurna region. The journey takes you from lush green terraced farms to barren landscapes surrounded by soaring icy mountains.

Throughout your journey, our experienced trek leader will be there to guide you. He will dispense valuable advice and nuggets of information about the people and places along the trail. Many who have completed the Annapurna Circuit swear that Nepal has to offer this is the best trek. All trekkers highly recommend the circuit as a spectacular trekking route. The diversity of landscape, mountain views, culture and people you encounter during the trek are incomparable.

This trip opens up a different part of Nepal, where foreigners were forbidden for many years, and Mustang remains restricted. It’s for intrepid travellers with good fitness and previous experience at high altitude, to experience Tibetan culture and small villages. See unique rock formations and arid cliffs, as well as the legendary walled Lo Manthang. As Mustang isn’t affected by monsoons, this adventure is possible year-round.

This relaxing journey explores laid-back southern state of Kerala, blessed with enchanting green landscapes of paddy fields, palm trees, golden beaches and forested hills. We experience old trading ports and idyllic backwaters along the coast to wild elephants and hill stations as also a spectacular Hindu temple in Tamil Nadu.

We start our tour in Kochi, the centre of the Indian spice for many centuries, before heading inland to visit the hill station of Munnar - a cool and serene town full of tea and rubber plantations and surrounded by grasslands and verdant forests. Christianity and even Judaism have left their mark on these coastal regions but it is Hinduism that dominates and hence a huge and elaborately decorated temple at Madurai – a treat for the eyes and the soul. High in the Western Ghats, Periyar National Park is home to a huge variety of wildlife where even colourful birds of various species are in abundance. We finish by relaxing on the tropical beaches of Kovalam but not before cruising along the picturesque Kerala backwaters with an overnight stay on a houseboat.

Highlights:

• Fort Kochi - an amalgam of Old Portuguese, British and Dutch architectural treasure.
• Munnar - a cool and picturesque hill station in the Western Ghats.
• Meenakshi Temple - one of the largest temple-complexes in India.
• Thekkady - famous for its spices like black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves.
• Periyar – for its Wildlife Sanctuary with vast wildlife; particularly elephants.
• Alleppey – for a memorable houseboat cruise through its backwaters.
  

Nar Phu Valley Trek is inarguably one of the better off-the-beaten-track trails and the least visited regions in West Nepal. Since it was opened in 2003, very few visitors have been in the wild, exotic, and sparsely populated valleys of Nar and Phu, offering intriguing medieval Tibetan culture and customs that remain untouched and along with breathtaking mountain views.

Nar Phu Valley’s restricted area can only be accessed with a special permit issued to an authorized trekking agency, providing the trekking tour’s essential logistics. The Nar Phu Valley trek has to be completed in seven days because that is the period the permit is issued for.

Our journey starts with a drive to Koto, a little village on the crossroads of the main Annapurna circuit trail and the gateway into the Nar Phu valleys. We go off the beaten track via a deep narrow river valley north of the Annapurna range.

We have a few days of acclimatizing and exploring the subalpine forests, mysterious valleys, and narrow river valleys with the presence of a robust Tibetan Buddhist culture along with ever-increasing wildlife – we might even spot the elusive snow leopard on the hike to the village of Nar.

We hike on a barren trail to high camp at the base of Kang La pass, also known as Kang La Phedi (4,530m). We climb gradually on a steep ascent, which leads to the summit of Kang La pass (5,320m).

We can be rewarded with spectacular views of the Annapurna range and the Marshyangdi valley from the top. We will have a 360-degree panorama on a clear day. Kang La is the gateway from the remote Nar/Phu valley into the ever-famous Marshyangdi valley. We have a steep descent to the village of Ngawal (3,615m). We are now on the main trail of the Annapurna circuit trek.

Some of the towering peaks seen from the summit of Kang La are Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II. Annapurna IV and Annapurna III, to name a few. We will be looking at the North Face of the Annapurna Range.

From Ngawal, We drive to Besisahar, where we stop for the night. It is a grueling drive of 8-10 hours on rough roads. We continue our overland journey the following day, all the way to Kathmandu.

Hadrian's Wall is Europe’s largest surviving Roman monument. It was the brainchild of Emperor Hadrian, who ordered its construction in AD122 to hold back the advancing Barbarians in northern England. As much of the wall still exists, and it traverses some of Britain's most ruggedly beautiful landscape, this is a remarkable and dramatic walk through history. As you follow Hadrian's footsteps from coast to coast, from Bowness on Solway, past Carlisle to Newcastle, you encounter a string of milecastles and forts, jaw-dropping vistas and details of life from two thousand years ago.

To this World Heritage walk we have added wonderful stays in boutique hotels, full of elegant charm, and private transfers to these and key related Roman sites.

This tour is a rewarding two-week discovery of all the best that this beautiful and green south-western corner of India has to offer. Get close to real Kerala with an off-the-beaten-track two-wheeled exploration of its back-roads and byways, and of course, some well-deserved relaxation on a tropical beach. This narrow Indian state sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the mountainous Western Ghats is known for its tropical greenery, quiet backwaters, spectacular wildlife reserves and endless tea and spice plantations. This carefully designed two-week itinerary gives one the freedom to stop wherever one likes; to interact with the local villagers; to get close to the soul of the place.

The tour begins with a relaxing stay in Kovalam, with its sandy beaches and lively, before we set off up the coast to the picturesque cliff tops, and bike through villages inhabited by the traditional fishing community of Varkala. It’s a gentle ride on to Kollam, the southern gateway to the Kerala backwaters – mile after mile of stunningly beautiful palm-lined inland waterways. We navigate this quiet and green world aboard wooden canoes from our base in the village of Mancombu. Our route then heads inland, into a landscape of spice, tea and rubber plantations, to reach the charming hill station of Wagamon at an altitude of 1,200 metres, and surrounded by picturesque waterfalls. We enjoy some challenging hill-cycling, and stop by at Periyar National Park where there’s a chance to see wild elephants, leopards and other rare wildlife, before returning to the coast via the hill station of Kuttikkanam. The last two days are spent in the delightful old city of Cochin, with its colonial mansions and laid-back ambience.

Highlights:

• Cycle the Kerala coastline beside magnificent tropical beaches.
• Relax on the beaches of Kovalam.
• Explore Varkala, an unspoiled village with a lovely beach.
• Explore the magical waterways around Kollam and Mancombu.
• Stay in the charming hill station of Wagamon.
• Spot wildlife at Periyar National Park.
  

This brilliant Golden State trip takes you on a loop from San Francisco, to Yosemite, to Carmel, and back up to the City by the Bay. You will definitely leave your heart somewhere—maybe in San Francisco, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, or with a sea otter in Monterey Bay.

Every day is special, whether you’re on your own at Fisherman’s Wharf or on a Big Sur beach, or enjoying guided experiences like biking the Golden Gate Bridge, hiking in Yosemite, peering into tide pools, or going behind-the-scenes at the outstanding Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The Upper Mustang area is also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom. Mustang lies in the trans-Himalayan region North of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It’s an arid, desert-like environment with colorful rock formations. Trekkers were only allowed to enter this region in 1992, and still, only about 700 trekkers are visiting Mustang a year. This is one of the few remaining enclaves where Tibetan culture remains undisturbed. See for yourself on the Upper Mustang Trek.

We are pioneers in gastronome trekking in the Himalayas. We provide a varied, interesting menu on treks throughout the Himalayas. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be catered for upon request, and other special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.

This is an extremely varied trip that offers everything from fascinating ancient Kathmandu to seeing Nepal’s countryside during the drive to Pokhara and Chitwan and game-watching in Chitwan. However, the highlight is a short trek, with our expert trek leader and porters, visiting some of the most interesting villages in the Annapurna’s foothills surrounded by magnificent mountain views.

We use a series of picturesque luxury lodges that offer a much higher comfort level than is ordinarily available while trekking. Each lodge has twin rooms, attached bathrooms, hot running water, dining rooms, cozy lounges, gardens, and stunning views.

The trekking part is ideal for active persons from a child to someone in their 70s.

Raise a margarita glass to the colourful beauty and fiery flavours of Mexico. Discover the culture and landscapes of this fascinating country on a trip that takes you from Mexico City to Playa del Carmen – with some enticing stops along the way. Discover Maya history and culture at the incredible Chichen Itza ruins and visit indigenous communities near the charming San Cristobal de las Casas. Indulge in a feast of delicious local food, with a chance to learn some cooking skills of your own. Snorkel in the brilliant Caribbean waters, laze on white sands and stroll through lively marketplaces. Waterfalls and mountains await you, and a host of museums, churches and archaeological sites will be sure to give you a taste of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.

A full day two-wheeled guided tour of Santiago to explore the culture behind the exotic streets of Bellavista and the taste and colours of all three of Santiago’s renowned food markets. Learn more about Chile’s recent history outside La Moneda and cruise through the city's many green parks.

Begin your small group Litchfield day tour from Darwin around 7:30 am journeying south to the crystal clear waters of Berry Springs.

Indulge in a relaxing geothermal massage at Berry Springs first thing in the morning whilst enjoying homemade mango muffins and morning coffee. Afterwards, paddle around and watch the many fish, sit casually under the waterfall or go for a serene rainforest stroll along the creek. From this piece of heaven we set our sights on the historic township of Batchelor, the gateway to Litchfield National Park. Along the way get to know the landscape and history of the Top End as your local guide lets you in on the past and present before arriving at Batchelor Town.

In Batchelor we take the time to enjoy the local Batchelor museum. This community run feature showcases many personal stories of the people and events which shaped the NT whilst also offering an exclusive venue option for our Wild Barramundi BBQ.

After lunch we are exploring Litchfield National Park. Cascading waterfalls, crystal clear swimming spots, grand viewpoints, endemic plants and animals and much more … Enjoy the relaxed pace as your guide tailors the afternoons to suit you.

Rise and shine and be ready for a 7.00 am pickup from your Darwin accommodation. Up early to get us straight out to Litchfield National Park and on to some of those magical short walks ending in waterfalls!

Spend the day exploring the best of what Litchfield has to offer, including Florence Falls, Tolmer Falls, Wangi Falls, Tabletop Swamp, magnetic and cathedral termite mounds, Bamboo Creek Tine Mine* and Walker Creek* (*May to Nov).

With ample time for photos, relaxation and reflection you'll still be back to Darwin in time for for happy hour or a late flight home.

Designed to take advantage of the cooler morning hours and out of sync with the majority of other visitors be prepared for a personal, intimate introduction to the Top End.

A thrilling four-day biking adventure through the Andes, wine valleys, cities and the central coast of Chile. Starting from downtown Santiago you'll make the exhilarating climb through the Andes along quiet roads that meander through the extensive vineyards of the Casablanca and Leyda Valleys. Stop for wine tasting and explore rural settlements before slowly making your way to Valparaíso.

Leave the latte behind as you don your brave face and embark on your own two-day Top End outback reality show.

DAY 1 – DARWIN TO LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK
Meet your expert guide at the front of your accommodation in Darwin and begin the journey south to Litchfield National Park. Visit historic mining ruins and ponder the nature of life on the frontier. See mother nature's statues (Cathedral and Magnetic Termite mounds) in and around the woodland, grassland and forests that form the natural backdrop as you provide witness to the scene.

Short hikes into secluded swim spots and viewpoints during the early afternoon before seeking the perfect location to savour dinner and watch the golden rays of sunset play across the ancient sandstone landforms of Litchfield Park.

As the ochre colours gain intensity and daylight closes out it is now time to gear up for a series of short night walks along less trodden pathways of Litchfield in search of the cute, the cuddly and the other type of WILD LIFE that finds refuge here.

Later that night enjoy a cold drink around the dancing campfire flames before retiring to the comfort of your personal tent of dreams.

DAY 2 – LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

Rising early with the birds for a sunrise walk and light breakfast next to the clear waters of one of the many waterfall fed swim holes in Litchfield is the way we like to start our day. Relax and take in the scene and moments before exploring the other short hiking trails in the area. Spend the rest of the day doing short hikes, swims and learning about the natural wealth of food, medicine and resource plants in the area.

Returning to Darwin around 1730 pm.

Join ‘Colours of Kakadu’ as Ethical Adventures journeys into the heart of Top End indigenous culture. Surrounded by the internationally significant World Heritage national park of Kakadu you will witness the countless centuries of human endeavour carefully recorded on this ancient landscape.

Meet the present-day traditional owners of Kakadu National Park. Hear their stories of creation, feel their love for the country and understand some of the issues.

Featuring Ubirr, Nourlangie, Anbanbang Billabong, Warradjan Culture centre, Bowali centre and including local indigenous guides and cruises.

The ‘Colours of Kakadu’ – 2 Day Kakadu tour, is Ethical Adventures' way of introducing you to the people, culture and history of indigenous Australians.

Australia’s tropical outback – The Top End – is a wild land where Brolgas fly across the sunset, huge crocodiles laze on riverbanks and sandstone shimmers with the world’s oldest art. Our Wild Top End tour departs from Darwin, taking six days to explore the wildlife and flora of Kakadu National Park, the tropical rivers of the Top End, and the grassy plains and billabongs of Mary River National Park.

Day 1: Darwin to Kakadu/Jabiru via Fogg Dam and Mamukala Wetlands

Day 2: Nourlangie Kakadu

Day 3: Tropical Rivers

Day 4 & 5: Mary River National Park

Day 6: Bird Billabong, Point Stuart & return to Darwin

Available as either a small group or private tour

More that just a Kadadu tour - see Arnhem Land and the Cobourg Peninsula on our most popular tour of the remote Top End. Highlights include: Wetland cruise, Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), Ubirr, Mamukala Wetlands, Nawalandja Lookout, Indigenous guided rock-art tour of Injalak Hill, Cobourg Marine Park, Victoria Settlement, Cobourg Coastal Camp and more.

Itinerary in brief – contact us now for a detailed itinerary:

Day 1: Darwin to Kakadu National Park via Corroboree Billabong

Day 2: Kakadu to Arnhem Land & Cobourg Peninsula

Day 3: Cruising Cobourg Peninsula & marine reserve

Day 4: Explore eastern Cobourg by 4WD

Day 5: Cobourg to Darwin via Kakadu National Park & Aboriginal rock art