Highlights of Route 66 and Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Highlights of Route 66 and Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Highlights of Route 66 and Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
17 Days Starting in Chicago, United States and ending in Los Angeles, United States
Visiting: Chicago, St. Louis, Joplin, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Grand Canyon National Park, Las Vegas, Los Angeles
Tour operator:
Tour code:
8540-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the iconic Route 66, culminating in the vibrant Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This guided coach tour takes you from the bustling streets of Chicago to the sunny shores of Los Angeles, with stops at historic landmarks and cultural treasures along the way. Experience the thrill of the Mass Ascension and Night Glow events at the Balloon Fiesta, explore the Route 66 museums in Pontiac, Elk City, and Victorville, and marvel at the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Las Vegas and the historic charm of Old Town Albuquerque. With comfortable accommodations and insightful sightseeing tours, this adventure offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Chicago
Location: Chicago
Accommodation Name: Hotel Saint Clair
Welcome to Chicago, the start of Route 66! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon with answers, tips, and suggestions.
CHICAGO Welcome to Chicago, the start of Route 66! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon with answers, tips, and suggestions.
Day 2: Chicago
Location: Chicago
Accommodation Name: Hotel Saint Clair
Meals Included: Breakfast
Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is home to magnificent architecture including one of America’s tallest buildings, notorious gangster Al Capone, and countless jazz and blues clubs. Oh, and deep-dish pizza, of course! Get to know this exciting city on a morning sightseeing tour that includes the sign marking the start of historic Route 66. Spend a free afternoon exploring Chi Town—perhaps a visit to the 103rd-floor Skydeck of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), a walk along the Magnificent Mile, or an optional river cruise for a different view of the city’s celebrated architecture.
CHICAGO Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is home to magnificent architecture including one of America’s tallest buildings, notorious gangster Al Capone, and countless jazz and blues clubs. Oh, and deep-dish pizza, of course! Get to know this exciting city on a morning sightseeing tour that includes the sign marking the start of historic Route 66. Spend a free afternoon exploring Chi Town—perhaps a visit to the 103rd-floor Skydeck of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), a walk along the Magnificent Mile, or an optional river cruise for a different view of the city’s celebrated architecture. (CB)
Day 3: Chicago,Pontiac,Springfield
Location: Chicago
Accommodation Name: Drury Inn & Suites Springfield
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, immerse yourself in Route 66 memorabilia. Visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, housed in a historic fire station. See the large maps that will sketch out your Route 66 adventure for the coming days and enjoy the nostalgic photos and postcards from the “Mother Road’s” heyday. Then on to Springfield, the capital of Illinois, where we will visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum.
CHICAGO–PONTIAC–SPRINGFIELD This morning, immerse yourself in Route 66 memorabilia. Visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, housed in a historic fire station. See the large maps that will sketch out your Route 66 adventure for the coming days and enjoy the nostalgic photos and postcards from the “Mother Road’s” heyday. Then on to Springfield, the capital of Illinois, where we will visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. (CB)
Day 4: Springfield,St. Louis
Location: St. Louis
Accommodation Name: Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Convention Center
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes the towering Gateway Arch National Park. Ascend to the top of the 630-foot-tall arch for a panoramic view of the city and river. Then drive along an original stretch of Route 66 and get the chance to savor some Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a Route 66 treat since 1929.
SPRINGFIELD–ST. LOUIS Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes the towering Gateway Arch National Park. Ascend to the top of the 630-foot-tall arch for a panoramic view of the city and river. Then drive along an original stretch of Route 66 and get the chance to savor some Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a Route 66 treat since 1929. (B)
Day 5: St. Louis,Joplin
Location: Joplin
Accommodation Name: Drury Inn & Suites Joplin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, we travel through the Missouri countryside, exploring interesting quaint towns and quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Overnight in Joplin, a city where a couple of infamous outlaws named Bonnie and Clyde once hid out.
ST. LOUIS–JOPLIN Today, we travel through the Missouri countryside, exploring interesting quaint towns and quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Overnight in Joplin, a city where a couple of infamous outlaws named Bonnie and Clyde once hid out. (B)
Day 6: Joplin,Tulsa,Oklahoma City
Location: Oklahoma City
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a quick drive through Kansas, enter Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory and home to the Cherokee Nation. In Tulsa, see the “East Meets West” sculpture that pays tribute to Cyrus Avery, “The Father of Route 66.” Later today, arrive in Oklahoma City.
JOPLIN–TULSA–OKLAHOMA CITY After a quick drive through Kansas, enter Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory and home to the Cherokee Nation. In Tulsa, see the “East Meets West” sculpture that pays tribute to Cyrus Avery, “The Father of Route 66.” Later today, arrive in Oklahoma City. (B)
Day 7: Oklahoma City,Elk City,Amarillo
Location: Oklahoma City
Accommodation Name: Country Inn & Suites Amarillo West
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with a sightseeing tour of Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city in Oklahoma. From here, travel to Elk City and visit the National Route 66 Museum and take a journey through each of the eight states Route 66 passes through. Continue into the Texas Panhandle and on to Amarillo, the Yellow Rose of Texas.
OKLAHOMA CITY–ELK CITY–AMARILLO Start the day with a sightseeing tour of Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city in Oklahoma. From here, travel to Elk City and visit the National Route 66 Museum and take a journey through each of the eight states Route 66 passes through. Continue into the Texas Panhandle and on to Amarillo, the Yellow Rose of Texas. (B)
Day 8: Amarillo,Tucumcari,Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown
Meals Included: Breakfast
On the way out of Amarillo, you’ll stop at Cadillac Ranch, the quirky art sculpture consisting of a collection of 10 colorful Cadillacs. Before crossing into New Mexico, reach Adrian, the halfway point on Route 66. Across the New Mexico border, visit Russell’s Car Museum, featuring classic cars and memorabilia. Next, stop in Tucumcari and shop for souvenirs at Teepee Curios. See the iconic Blue Swallow Motel that has been serving travelers of Route 66 since 1939, along with many original signs from the town’s heyday. Arrive in Albuquerque and visit Central Avenue where many of the original Route 66 buildings and businesses still stand.
AMARILLO–TUCUMCARI–ALBUQUERQUE On the way out of Amarillo, you’ll stop at Cadillac Ranch, the quirky art sculpture consisting of a collection of 10 colorful Cadillacs. Before crossing into New Mexico, reach Adrian, the halfway point on Route 66. Across the New Mexico border, visit Russell’s Car Museum, featuring classic cars and memorabilia. Next, stop in Tucumcari and shop for souvenirs at Teepee Curios. See the iconic Blue Swallow Motel that has been serving travelers of Route 66 since 1939, along with many original signs from the town’s heyday. Arrive in Albuquerque and visit Central Avenue where many of the original Route 66 buildings and businesses still stand. (CB)
Day 9: Albuquerque-International Balloon Festival
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown
This morning, enjoy an unforgettable experience at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta’s Mass Ascension, where hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons fill the morning sky. Enjoy time walking down Main Street where you’ll find food vendors, merchandise, and entertainment. This afternoon, learn about Pueblo culture from ancient times to the present at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, then explore Old Town Albuquerque, site of the city’s original settlement. This evening return to the balloon grounds for the breathtaking Night Glow and other exciting events of the Fiesta.
ALBUQUERQUE-INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FESTIVAL This morning, enjoy an unforgettable experience at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta’s Mass Ascension, where hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons fill the morning sky. Enjoy time walking down Main Street where you’ll find food vendors, merchandise, and entertainment. This afternoon, learn about Pueblo culture from ancient times to the present at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, then explore Old Town Albuquerque, site of the city’s original settlement. This evening return to the balloon grounds for the breathtaking Night Glow and other exciting events of the Fiesta.
Day 10: Albuquerque. Excursion To Santa Fe
Location: Santa Fe
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown
Travel through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains to enjoy the day in Santa Fe. Take an orientation tour with highlights including the Palace of the Governors and the State Capitol. Visit historic Loretto Chapel and learn about its mysterious “Miraculous Staircase.” Return to Albuquerque via the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway with a stop in the eclectic artist community of Madrid.
ALBUQUERQUE. EXCURSION TO SANTA FE Travel through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains to enjoy the day in Santa Fe. Take an orientation tour with highlights including the Palace of the Governors and the State Capitol. Visit historic Loretto Chapel and learn about its mysterious “Miraculous Staircase.” Return to Albuquerque via the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway with a stop in the eclectic artist community of Madrid.
Day 11: Albuquerque,Gallup,Winslow,Williams
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: La Quinta Inn and Suites-Grand Canyon Area
Depart Albuquerque and cross the Continental Divide continuing to Gallup, sometimes called the “Indian Capital of the World.” It is the homeland of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and many other tribes who comprise a large percentage of the population. Then we’ll be “standing on the corner of Winslow, Arizona,” the sleepy Route 66 town made famous by The Eagles’ hit song “Take It Easy.” Continue to Williams, gateway to the Grand Canyon, and listed in the National Register for Historic Places. The Historic Downtown District covers six square blocks and boasts a rich heritage that features the Old West and Route 66.
ALBUQUERQUE–GALLUP–WINSLOW–WILLIAMS Depart Albuquerque and cross the Continental Divide continuing to Gallup, sometimes called the “Indian Capital of the World.” It is the homeland of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and many other tribes who comprise a large percentage of the population. Then we’ll be “standing on the corner of Winslow, Arizona,” the sleepy Route 66 town made famous by The Eagles’ hit song “Take It Easy.” Continue to Williams, gateway to the Grand Canyon, and listed in the National Register for Historic Places. The Historic Downtown District covers six square blocks and boasts a rich heritage that features the Old West and Route 66.
Day 12: Williams. Excursion To Grand Canyon National Park
Location: Grand Canyon National Park
Accommodation Name: La Quinta Inn and Suites-Grand Canyon Area
Meals Included: Breakfast
Deviate from Route 66 to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon National Park. Wander along the canyon rim for breathtaking views and wildlife, including the chance to spot Elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience on an optional helicopter flightseeing tour for an awe-inspiring bird’s eye view from above the canyon. Return to Williams where the evening is free to explore the historic Americana-style shops and restaurants dating back to the early 1900s. Be sure to take note of the neon signs of the preserved circa 1940s “Motel Row.”
WILLIAMS. EXCURSION TO GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK Deviate from Route 66 to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon National Park. Wander along the canyon rim for breathtaking views and wildlife, including the chance to spot Elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience on an optional helicopter flightseeing tour for an awe-inspiring bird’s eye view from above the canyon. Return to Williams where the evening is free to explore the historic Americana-style shops and restaurants dating back to the early 1900s. Be sure to take note of the neon signs of the preserved circa 1940s “Motel Row.” (CB)
Day 13: Williams,Seligman,Las Vegas
Location: Las Vegas
Accommodation Name: Sahara Las Vegas
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart Williams for Seligman, home to the rebirth of Route 66. Detour once again from Route 66 to visit the bright lights of Las Vegas. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the glittering “Strip.” This evening, consider an optional night on the town featuring an extravagant dinner followed by a dazzling show featuring top Vegas entertainment.
WILLIAMS–SELIGMAN–LAS VEGAS Depart Williams for Seligman, home to the rebirth of Route 66. Detour once again from Route 66 to visit the bright lights of Las Vegas. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the glittering “Strip.” This evening, consider an optional night on the town featuring an extravagant dinner followed by a dazzling show featuring top Vegas entertainment. (CB)
Day 14: Las Vegas
Location: Las Vegas
Accommodation Name: Sahara Las Vegas
A day at leisure to relax by the pool or explore the legendary Las Vegas Strip. Float through a Venetian canal, visit jaw-dropping horticultural displays, or test your luck at one of the many world-famous casinos—it’s all possible in Las Vegas! Don’t miss downtown Las Vegas, where you’ll find the Fremont Street Experience, five city blocks enclosed in a glass atrium and filled with dazzling lights, sounds, and action. You’ll also have an opportunity to take an optional excursion to see and learn about nearby Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel.
LAS VEGAS A day at leisure to relax by the pool or explore the legendary Las Vegas Strip. Float through a Venetian canal, visit jaw-dropping horticultural displays, or test your luck at one of the many world-famous casinos—it’s all possible in Las Vegas! Don’t miss downtown Las Vegas, where you’ll find the Fremont Street Experience, five city blocks enclosed in a glass atrium and filled with dazzling lights, sounds, and action. You’ll also have an opportunity to take an optional excursion to see and learn about nearby Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel.
Day 15: Las Vegas,Victorville,Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles
Accommodation Name: Westin Bonaventure
Today, depart the man-made oasis of Las Vegas, and cross the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains en route to Los Angeles. Visit the California Route 66 Museum, featuring a 50’s diner, VW Love Bus, and the 1917 Model T Ford exhibits. Overnight in Los Angeles, where you’ll visit Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66.
LAS VEGAS–VICTORVILLE–LOS ANGELES Today, depart the man-made oasis of Las Vegas, and cross the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains en route to Los Angeles. Visit the California Route 66 Museum, featuring a 50’s diner, VW Love Bus, and the 1917 Model T Ford exhibits. Overnight in Los Angeles, where you’ll visit Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66.
Day 16: Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles
Accommodation Name: Westin Bonaventure
Explore the exciting “City of Angels” on a morning tour of legendary Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, and Hollywood, where you’ll walk along the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, and get a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign. Your afternoon is free. Get a real taste of Hollywood on the optional Warner Bros. Studio tour where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how TV and movies are made, including seeing famous sets from the big and small screen.
LOS ANGELES Explore the exciting “City of Angels” on a morning tour of legendary Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, and Hollywood, where you’ll walk along the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, and get a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign. Your afternoon is free. Get a real taste of Hollywood on the optional Warner Bros. Studio tour where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how TV and movies are made, including seeing famous sets from the big and small screen.
Day 17: Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles
Your vacation ends this morning. Consider extending your vacation with extra nights and explore Los Angeles further.
LOS ANGELES Your vacation ends this morning. Consider extending your vacation with extra nights and explore Los Angeles further.
What's Included
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Transportation
Travel through the United States on a guided tour along Route 66, with stops in major cities and attractions. Transportation includes a comfortable coach for long-distance travel and local sightseeing tours.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Hotel Saint Clair in Chicago, Wyndham Springfield City Centre in Springfield, Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Convention Center in St. Louis, Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel in Oklahoma City, Country Inn & Suites Amarillo West in Amarillo, Holiday Inn Express Albuquerque Midtown in Albuquerque, Comfort Inn Near Grand Canyon in Williams, Sahara Las Vegas in Las Vegas, and Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles.
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Meals
Meals are included as specified in the itinerary, such as Continental Breakfast (CB) and Breakfast (B).
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Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing tours are included in various cities such as Chicago, St. Louis, Oklahoma City, and Santa Fe.
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Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Experience the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta’s Mass Ascension and Night Glow events.
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Route 66 Attractions
Visits to Route 66 attractions such as the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, and the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville.
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Grand Canyon National Park
A visit to Grand Canyon National Park, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
What's Not Included
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as a helicopter flightseeing tour over the Grand Canyon, a night on the town in Las Vegas, and a Warner Brothers Studio tour in Los Angeles are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Flights
Flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Notes
Guests should be prepared for sustained walking (approximately 1/2 mile) and standing while at the Balloon Fiesta.On vacations that include an overnight stay in Las Vegas, at least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.Maximum elevation on tour: 7,262 ft
UNESCO Sites
Grand Canyon National Park
Accommodation
Stay in a variety of comfortable hotels along Route 66, including Hotel Saint Clair in Chicago, Drury Inn & Suites in Springfield and Joplin, Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel, Country Inn & Suites in Amarillo, Hilton Garden Inn in Albuquerque, La Quinta Inn and Suites in Williams, Sahara Las Vegas, and Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles.
Meals
9 Breakfasts
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
Transportation includes a comfortable coach for long-distance travel and local sightseeing tours.
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What types of meals are included in the tour?
Meals are included as specified in the itinerary, such as Continental Breakfast (CB) and Breakfast (B).
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What are some of the key attractions visited on this tour?
Key attractions include the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, Grand Canyon National Park, and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
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Are there any optional excursions available during the tour?
Yes, optional excursions such as a helicopter flightseeing tour over the Grand Canyon, a night on the town in Las Vegas, and a Warner Brothers Studio tour in Los Angeles are available but not included in the tour price.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Hotel Saint Clair in Chicago, Drury Inn & Suites Springfield, Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Convention Center, Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel, Country Inn & Suites Amarillo West, Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown, La Quinta Inn and Suites-Grand Canyon Area, Sahara Las Vegas, and Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles.
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What activities are planned during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?
During the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, you will experience the Mass Ascension where hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons fill the morning sky, and the Night Glow event in the evening.
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What can I expect during the visit to Grand Canyon National Park?
At Grand Canyon National Park, you can wander along the canyon rim for breathtaking views and wildlife, including the chance to spot Elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. There is also an optional helicopter flightseeing tour available for an awe-inspiring bird’s eye view from above the canyon.
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What is the significance of the Route 66 attractions included in the tour?
The Route 66 attractions, such as the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, and the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, offer a nostalgic look at the history and culture of the iconic 'Mother Road' and its impact on American travel and culture.
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What are some of the unique experiences offered in Las Vegas during the tour?
In Las Vegas, you can explore the legendary Las Vegas Strip, visit themed casino resorts, and enjoy the Fremont Street Experience. There is also an optional night on the town featuring an extravagant dinner followed by a dazzling show featuring top Vegas entertainment.
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What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
Cultural experiences include learning about Pueblo culture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque, exploring historic Old Town Albuquerque, and visiting the Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe to learn about its mysterious 'Miraculous Staircase.'
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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