Leading adventure travel operator Explore Worldwide has launched five brand-new itineraries within its Explore Upgraded collection, expanding the range with new trips in South Africa, Colombia, Madeira, Andalucía and Cambodia.
The newly launched adventures span wildlife-rich safaris, iconic walking routes, island exploration and immersive cultural journeys, offering travellers the chance to experience some of Explore’s most popular destinations with added overnight comfort, a hosted welcome meal and a standout experience included.
Explore’s Upgraded trips deliver everything that Explore is known for – small groups, expert local leaders, immersive experiences and responsible travel – but with premium accommodation throughout the trip, offering a little extra comfort at the end of each day’s exploring.
Accommodation is selected using Explore’s established protocols, prioritising locally owned properties and central locations. While most nights are spent in four-star rather than three-star hotels, there are exceptions where distinctive or characterful accommodation offers the best possible experience.
Each of the new itineraries also includes a hosted welcome meal early in the trip, along with at least one carefully chosen experience designed to deepen cultural connection or highlight a defining moment of the destination.
Demand for Explore’s Upgraded trips continues to grow, with the category seeing a 123% year-on-year increase in reservations over the past 12 months.
Michael Edwards, Managing Director at Explore Worldwide, said: “Our customers tell us they love Explore’s offering of immersive experiences, expert tour leaders and small group sizes – that winning formula has not changed.
“What we’ve done with Explore Upgraded is simply add a bit more comfort where it counts most: at the end of a busy day, when a great night’s sleep and a welcoming hotel really make a difference.
“These trips keep everything that makes an Explore holiday special, with the bonus of premium accommodation, a shared welcome meal and a standout experience that adds an extra layer to the journey.”
“We’re delighted to be adding these five new itineraries to the Explore Upgraded collection, giving travellers more choice across some truly standout destinations.”
New Upgraded Tours at a glance
South Africa shines brighter than ever on this carefully curated itinerary, where cosmopolitan culture meets dramatic coastlines and days end in boutique hotels chosen for their character and comfort.
Refined dining, enhanced game-viewing and seamless travel between regions elevate the journey into something truly special.
Highlights:
- Cape Town in style: Stay in hand-picked premium hotels near the V&A Waterfront, explore the city’s beaches and mountain viewpoints and indulge in standout meals showcasing local flavours.
- Winelands elegance: Enjoy elevated tastings at historic estates in Franschhoek or Stellenbosch, paired with gourmet food and vineyard views.
- Safari upgrade: A luxurious lodge experience in Kruger National Park, with expert-led game drives and sundowners overlooking the bush.
Prices for 14 days start from £3,795 per person (not including flights).
Colombia’s vibrancy, colour and culture unfold in a journey designed to showcase the country’s natural beauty and artisan heritage.
Elevated culinary moments and insider access to coffee growers and local artisans bring an added depth to the experience, revealing Colombia at its most authentic.
Highlights:
- Coffee country immersion: Visit a specialist finca surrounded by orchids and hummingbirds, learning the craft behind Colombia’s most celebrated export.
- Upgraded boutique stays: Stylish rural haciendas and heritage-rich city hotels bring an elevated sense of place.
- Cultural encounters: Explore Bogotá’s historic centre, Medellín’s innovative barrios, and the rolling landscapes of the Coffee Region.
Prices for eight days start from £2,530 per person (not including flights).
Known as the Pearl of the Atlantic, Madeira reveals its dramatic coastlines, cloud forests and serene seaside towns on a trip balancing exploration with indulgence.
Stylish hotels, exceptional culinary experiences, elevated walking options and smooth private transfers create a beautifully polished way to explore the island.
Highlights:
- Clifftop trails & levada walks: Follow Madeira’s lush irrigation channels and spectacular ridge paths with expert local guides.
- Stay in style: Premium oceanfront hotels with spa facilities and standout dining celebrate Madeira’s refined hospitality.
- Wine & gastronomy: Taste iconic Madeira wine where it’s made and discover the island’s Atlantic-inspired cuisine.
Prices for eight days start from £2,095 (not including flights).
A journey through southern Spain’s most spectacular landscapes, combining iconic walks with remarkable cultural stays, elevated by nights in historic Paradors, rich regional dining and curated routes shaped with premium touches.
Highlights:
- Caminito del Rey: Walk one of Europe’s most dramatic cliff-side pathways with elevated comfort and expert guidance.
- Stay in historic Paradors: Sleep in former monasteries, fortresses and palaces, unique to Spain and brimming with character.
- Whitewashed villages & Moorish heritage: Explore Ronda, Antequera and Andalucía’s hilltop towns in relaxed style.
Prices for eight days start from £2,255 per person (not including flights).
A beautifully balanced journey through Cambodia’s ancient temples and vibrant cities, enriched by boutique accommodation, elevated dining, curated cultural encounters and a meaningful stay at the community-led Smiling Gecko project.
Highlights:
- Angkor at sunrise: Witness the dawn light over Angkor Wat and explore the wider temple complex with expert guidance.
- Smiling Gecko stay: Spend a night at an inspiring community-led project supporting education, farming and artisanal training, complete with a fine-dining experience by a rising Cambodian chef.
- Phnom Penh culture: Discover the capital’s history and spirit through guided visits, a rooftop cocktail and a monk blessing before exploring the bustling Central Market by tuk-tuk.
Prices for seven days start from £995 (not including flights).
To find out more about Explore Worldwide’s full collection of Upgraded tours, visit: www.explore.co.uk/experiences/explore-upgraded
