TRIP NOTES

Best of Borneo

12 days | Starts/Ends: Kota Kinabalu

Embark on a classic Borneo adventure from Kota Kinabalu, exploring lush rainforest, searching out wildlife on river cruises and bedding down for the night in 3star hotels, remote jungle lodges and unique a river homestay. Visit conservation projects, plant trees and enjoy a barbecue on the beach in Kudat - all this and more on this 12 day tour. HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS

Trip Highlights • Poring Village - Location of the Poring Hot Springs and one of the best places to see the impressive Rafflesia flower. Stay the night in a remote jungle lodge bordering Kinabalu National Park • Kinabalu National Park - Enjoy views of Mount Kinabalu and visit the Kundasang War Memorial • Deramakot Forest Reserve - Only FSC certified working logging concession in Southeast Asia and one of the most biodiverse locations in Borneo to view wildlife • Kinabatangan River - The longest river in Sabah with excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Bed down for the night

Best of Borneo - 12 days www.onthegotours.com UK  020 7371 1113  [email protected] AUS  1300 855 684  [email protected] NZ 0800 44 77 69       CAN 1 866 890 7038      USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

at a riverside homestay in Abai Village and plant a tree at a reforestation project • Sepilok - Visit the world-famous Sepilok Oragutan Sanctuary, the newly opened Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Rainforest Discovery Centre • Kudat - Small coastal town where there's free time to discover its beautiful beaches and enjoy an evening barbecue

What's Included • 4 nights in hotels, 6 nights in a jungle lodge, 1 night in homestay • 9 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 6 dinners • Airport arrival transfer on day 1 • One way economy class flight from Sepilok to Kudat • Escorted by a tour leader • All relevant transfers and transportation by public bus, 4WD and boat • Visit to Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Rainforest Discovery Centre and Sunbear Conservation Centre in Sepilok • Nocturnal hike in Mt Kinabalu World Heritage Site; conservation talk, nature hike and nocturnal 4WD in Dermamakot Forest Reserve; visit to ox-bow lake and wildlife river safari in Kinabatangan Region; and tree planting in Abai Village • Maximum group size: 16

What's Not Included

• International flights, airport departure transfers and departure taxes • Tipping and items of a personal nature, i.e. laundry, additional meals, drinks etc • Optional excursions - please see the full list of optional excursions available at the end of the trip notes

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 : Kota Kinabalu

The first day of your tour is simply an arrival day with no pre-organised activities. In order to allow time to relax and see some of the sights you may wish to add pre tour accommodation. On arrival please ask at the reception for information on when the pre departure meeting will be held. Sabah’s lively capital city, Kota Kinabalu (or KK as it is affectionately known) is best-known as a starting point for various adventures and wildlife excursions, but also offers its own beguiling array of attractions as well.

updated on 28-01-2017 This information has been compiled with care and good faith. They give an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or other reasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. Any costs shown are subject to change, though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of On The Go Tours.

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TRIP NOTES

Best of Borneo The cultural diversity of the city ensures intriguing culinary offerings and there are countless museums, temples, parks and markets to wander. The city is home to The Sabah State Museum, a large complex that is also home to the Science and Technology Centre, the Ethnobotanical Gardens and the Heritage Village. The Monsopiad Cultural Village (Kampung Monsopiad) features cultural shows related to the Kadazan-Dusun culture, and is well worth a visit. The Padang Merdeka or 'Town Field' is also worth a visit – it is the site where the declaration of Sabah's independence took place on 16 September 1963. You can enjoy a number of optional excursions to explore the jungle and island scenery surrounding KK. For example, you can do a full or half day kayaking tour around the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a cluster of beautiful tropical islands off the shore of Kota Kinabalu that offer spectacular opportunities for snorkelling and swimming in crystal-clear waters. A full list of the optional excursions on offer in Kota Kinabalu can be found at the end of these trip notes. Overnight - Kota Kinabalu

Day 2 : Mt Kinabalu World Heritage Site

Kota Kinabalu - Kinabalu National Park. Dominated by Mt Kinabalu, the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea, the Mt Kinabalu World Heritage Site has a range of diverse habitats that are perfect for exploring on foot, from sub-alpine forest to rich tropical lowland. The mountain and its surroundings are among the most important biological sites in the world, with between 5000 and 6000 species of plants, 326 species of birds, and more than 100 mammalian species identified. Among this rich collection of wildlife

Best of Borneo - 12 days www.onthegotours.com UK  020 7371 1113  [email protected] AUS  1300 855 684  [email protected] NZ 0800 44 77 69       CAN 1 866 890 7038      USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

are famous species such as the gigantic Rafflesia plants. This is the largest flower in the world, which also happens to emit the stench of rotting flesh to attract the flies that spread its pollen. From here you can also visit the Poring hot springs. We will also stop at the Kundasang War Memorial and Gardens, built to commemorate the 2428 prisoners who died at the Sandakan POW camp. The memorial has four interlocking gardens to represent the homelands of those who died there. Our lodging for the evening is the Lupa Masa Jungle Camp, located next to the national park. Facilities are limited here, but the setting is superb. Alongside the camp is a stunning waterfall and river whose fresh, clear water comes right off Mt Kinabalu. This is one of the few opportunities in Sabah to experience camping in original primary ‘big tree’ forest. Please Note: The walk to our jungle lodge can be muddy and is uphill in places, so walking shoes are recommended. Anyone with reasonable fitness should be able to complete the walk without difficulty, but please contact us if you are concerned. For those wishing to climb Mt Kinabalu, please see our Mt Kinabalu Add-on. This can be added to the end of your tour, or included instead of the jungle camp at an additional cost. If you are considering trying to include this hike in your trip, please ensure you enquire well in advance as this trek is permit regulated and is often fully booked in advance. A full list of the optional excursions on offer in Kinabalu National Park can be found at the end of these trip notes. Overnight - Kinabalu National Park (B, D)

Days 3-4 : Deramakot Forest Reserve

Kinabalu National Park - Deramakot Forest Reserve. You will spend two days in the spectacular Deramakot Forest Reserve, which offers unique opportunities for observing wildlife. In fact, about 75% of all the mammals in the Sabah Region can be found in Deramakot, and the reserve is a key habitat for five globallythreatened large mammals; the Orangutan, the Pygmy Elephant, the Banteng (a species of wild cattle), the Proboscis Monkey and the Clouded Leopard. You will have plenty of time to explore the extraordinary biodiversity of the reserve by embarking on nature hikes in the region, and by taking part in a nocturnal safari by 4WD vehicle to spot wildlife in the dark. You can also watch the sunrise over the dense rainforest canopy, a truly beautiful sight and one that you'll never forget. During your time in the Deramakot Forest Reserve you will also learn about local conservation efforts and innovative sustainable logging procedures (Deramakot is seen as a model for modern forest management practices and is the first reserve in South East Asia to be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council). Overnight - Deramakot Forest Reserve (B:2, L:2, D:2)

Day 5 : Kinabatangan Region Deramakot Forest Reserve - Kinabatangan Region. We embark on a river cruise to one of the many ox-bow lakes on the floodplain of the Kinabatangan Region, spotting wildlife as we travel downriver. The area is known for its biodiversity and you may see orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pig tailed macaque, long tailed macaque, red and grey leaf monkeys, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, hornbills and the slow loris. This conservation area is one of only

updated on 28-01-2017 This information has been compiled with care and good faith. They give an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or other reasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. Any costs shown are subject to change, though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of On The Go Tours.

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TRIP NOTES

Best of Borneo two in the world where ten species of primate exist. Arriving at the small village of Bukit Garama we'll have a light local lunch before continuing our journey by road to our riverside lodge for the night. Later head out on a river cruise in search of wildlife followed by a buffet dinner or local and western style food. After dinner there will be an optional night walk. Overnight - Kinabatangan Region (B, L, D)

Day 6 : Abai Village Homestay Kinabatangan Region - Abai village. Today we travel by river boat through the Ramsar Wetland Reserve and participate in a local reforestation project. This is a great opportunity to lend a hand by planting fast-growing fruit trees which will provide a valuable source of food for animals and help preserve the region for future visitors and locals alike. We reach the village of Abai where locals welcome us into their homes for a truly unique and privileged glimpse into riverside life. Your tour leader will brief you on what to expect in the village and appropriate dress and behaviour. We enjoy the hospitality of our hosts who prepare local food for us while staying in wooden stilted housing. Overnight - Abai village homestay (B, L, D)

and other wildlife species and today has around 60 to 80 orangutans living freely in the reserve along with younger orang-utans housed in the nurseries. There are two feedings daily which is the best chance to see the orangutans close up (although sightings cannot be guaranteed) and we plan the day around these events. Near to the sanctuary is the Rainforest Discovery Centre which can be visited between feedings on day 8. There are nature trails in the centre including a canopy walkway. Exploring the centre we may see hornbills and flying squirrels and just listening to the impressive sounds of the jungle is an experience not to be forgotten. In early 2014 the Sun Bear Conservation Centre opened its doors to visitors and if you wish, you have time also on day 8 to include a visit to this very worthwhile project. The world’s smallest bear species, the sun bear is under threat from deforestation and this centre houses orphaned and rescued sun bears in order to rehabilitate them. A full list of the optional excursions on offer in Sepilok can be found at the end of these trip notes. Overnight - Sepilok (B:2)

Days 9-10 : Kudat

A full list of the optional excursions on offer in Kudat can be found at the end of these trip notes. Please note: In some instances, due to limited seat availability, we may have to substitute the flight back to Kudat with a drive up the coast instead. Overnight - Kudat (B:1, D:1)

Day 11 : Kudat to Kota Kinabalu Kudat - Kota Kinabalu. In the morning you are free to continue exploring the pristine beaches and coves of Kudat. In the afternoon, we return to Kota Kinabalu where you may want to enjoy one last meal with your group, or see some more of the city by night before departing the next day. A full list of the optional excursions on offer in Kota Kinabalu can be found at the end of these trip notes. Overnight - Kota Kinabalu

Day 12 : Kota Kinabalu Thursday. Your adventure of a lifetime comes to an end today. If you have a late flight or have lengthened your stay by adding post tour accommodation you will have more time to explore the sights.(B)

Our Partners Tucan Travel Please note that our Best of Borneo group tour is operated by Tucan Travel. Travellers on your

Days 7-8 : Sepilok

trip will have made their reservation with either On The Go Tours or Tucan Travel.

Arrival transfer & start hotel Start Hotel

Abai Village - Sepilok. Sepilok is the location of the famed Orangutan sanctuary which we will visit on day 7 for your best chance to see these magnificent primates up close in their natural habitat. You will stay close to the sanctuary in Sepilok, in wooden lodgings in the rainforest.

Sepilok - Kudat. We fly to Kudat, on the very tip of Borneo. Kudat is a small port town with welcoming locals and a very laid-back atmosphere, and is home to a large Chinese temple and a great fresh seafood market. We stay near the sea, where we have the opportunity to enjoy a BBQ on the beach at sunset. You will also have the opportunity to go swimming, snorkelling, fishing and hiking in and around the beautiful coves and beaches of this remote corner of northern Borneo.

Upon arrival at the airport in Borneo you will be met and transferred to your start hotel. Best Western Kinabalu Daya Best Western Lot 3 & 4, Block 9, Jalan Pantai, 88000, Kota Kinabalu Phone: +60-88-240000 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.kkdayahotel.com/

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre was founded to protect orphaned orangutans

Best of Borneo - 12 days www.onthegotours.com UK  020 7371 1113  [email protected] AUS  1300 855 684  [email protected] NZ 0800 44 77 69       CAN 1 866 890 7038      USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

updated on 28-01-2017 This information has been compiled with care and good faith. They give an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or other reasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. Any costs shown are subject to change, though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of On The Go Tours.

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TRIP NOTES

Best of Borneo This hotel has free Wi-fi throughout, a money exchange service and a laundry service. There are many ATMS within a 5-10 minute walk from the hotel. There are safe deposit boxes for your use at reception (you will get an itemised receipt). Please leave all of your important documents, money and travellers cheques here when you go out but remember to carry some form of ID and a photocopy of your passport with you.

group. The trek to Lupa Masa is through the forest and parts of the trek can be muddy. The camp is at altitude of around 500m the weather is cooler so you should pack something warm to sleep in. Sleeping bags are not necessary, but a sleep sheet is a good idea. Alternatively, they can rent blankets for a refundable 20MYR deposit. Toilets are both squat and western and located 2 minutes away from the main camp area in a private cubicle. A head torch is advisable for these night excursions.

First and last day of your tour

River Homestay

Day 1. Of all our tours is simply a joining day and the tour actually departs the joining city on day 2. The last day of your tour is the official departure day and is free for you to pack or sightsee before you depart. All tours are scheduled to arrive at your final destination the afternoon/evening before your departure day. Therefore, very little time is spent in each of the starting and finishing cities and you will need to allow a few days at the beginning or end of your tour if you want to explore them further.

On day 6 of our Best of Borneo tour you will overnight at a local homestay. The homestay is a very unique experience and in a traditional Malay Muslim village, so dress conservatively and of course no alcohol (knees and shoulders covered for women whilst in the village and homes). The village is completely surrounded by river and wilderness. The homestay offers wellcooked safe and traditional local food (rice and veggies and if you are lucky river prawns and seafood). The homestay houses are wooden and set on stilts. If it’s a small group, you will stay in the main house which has a western style toilet. If it’s a bigger group you will stay in different houses, some with squat toilets. The group is split into twin rooms or maybe triple depending on the group size/configuration and bedding is mattresses on the floor with a sheet on it and mosquito net. Usually it is lights out pretty early.

Travel Style This is an Adventure Tour, we see a destination from the locals' perspective using a variety of transport and staying in small locally owned accommodation. There is a maximum of 16 travellers with an average group size of 8-12. All our Adventure Tours are priced per person on a shared room basis meaning there is no compulsory extra payment for those travelling on their own. If you are a solo traveller, a single room is available on most occasions at an extra cost. Price information can be found on the price page of each tour. This must be booked in advance.

Jungle Lodge & River Homestay Jungle Lodge On day 2 of our Best of Borneo tour you will be spending the night Lupa Masa jungle camp. Upon arrival at Poring, you will store your main bags securely in the village and taking an overnight pack it is a 30-40 minute walk to the jungle camp depending on the fitness of the

Best of Borneo - 12 days www.onthegotours.com UK  020 7371 1113  [email protected] AUS  1300 855 684  [email protected] NZ 0800 44 77 69       CAN 1 866 890 7038      USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

Entrance fee & tipping Entrance fees for included excursions are included in the cost of your Borneo tour. Optional excursions are not included and are available to book and pay for locally. Tipping is not included. For a job well done, we would suggest you tip your tour guides USD$5 - 10 per person per day. Tipping is an entirely personal gesture and ultimately the amount is up to you.

Optional Excursions Optional excursions are not operated by On The Go Tours or Tucan Travel and while every effort is made prices may not be up-to-date and are intended as a general guide to help you budget for your trip. Prices for vehicle-based excursions such as game drives are approximate based on

the optimum number of participants and the actual price may vary depending on group size. Sufficient safety equipment such as protective helmets and life jackets are sometimes not available or the standard may vary between destinations. Tucan Travel is unable to provide this equipment. This is particularly the case for activities such as horse-riding, caving, whitewater rafting, bungee-jumping, canyoning and other similar optional excursions. If you intend to participate in an optional excursion you may like to consider bringing your own safety gear. Excursions are run by a local operator or third party with both Tucan Travel and the Tour Leader acting as a booking agent only. Optional activities are not part of the tour and Tucan Travel’s booking conditions do not apply to them. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct travel insurance for the excursions you intend to take part in and Tucan Travel is not liable for any injuries incurred.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Borneo Country Guide

Visas Please be advised that visa requirements are subject to change and that visa procurement is the responsibility of the traveller and not On The Go Tours. Please also ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of departure from Borneo. New Zealand, Canadian and South African passport holders can enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month. British and Australian passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to three months. National from the U.S.A do not require a visa. All other nationalities please check with your nearest Malaysian/Borneo Embassy or Consulate. Foreign travellers visiting Malaysia are required to hold sufficient funds (at least US$500) to cover their expenses while in the country, a return/onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. If travellers are not in possession of a return/ onward ticket, they may be requested to purchase one.

updated on 28-01-2017 This information has been compiled with care and good faith. They give an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or other reasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. Any costs shown are subject to change, though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of On The Go Tours.

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TRIP NOTES

Best of Borneo Health Requirements As Rabies are an ever present problem in Malaysia, close animal contact should be avoided and if bitten, you should treat the matter seriously and seek medical attention immediately. Leeches are present in the jungles and can be a nuisance after heavy rain on jungle walks. Leech socks can be purchased locally and are recommended. Treated tap water is available in most builtup areas. In rural areas we recommend bottled water which is widely available and inexpensive. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Malaysia, if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area.

Climate Borneo has an equatorial climate and situated south of the equator, a dry season is the reverse of the rest of south-east Asia: April – November. The rainy season is from December – March and although travel is possible it is less pleasant. At all times of year however, it is usually hot and humid in the lowlands and cooler in the mountains. Mt Kinabalu has its own climate and often experiences freezing temperatures at night.

Time & Voltage Malaysia is 8.00 hours ahead of GMT The voltage in Borneo is 240v 50Hz AC and the outlet is a UK style three-pin (type G) rectangular pronged plug.

Currency The Myanmar Kyat, often denoted by MMK, is the official currency of Myanmar. The official rate is far different from the market rate. Some exchange booths, especially at the airport offer a very poor rate so we recommend you wait until meeting our representative or your tour guide for advise on the best place to exchange. Carry USD or Euros cash, larger denominations tend to get better exchange rate. USD bills should be of the new series (‘big’ heads rather of ‘small’ heads) and any notes that are old, torn or marked will not be accepted. Further USD bills with the CB series are not acceptable

Best of Borneo - 12 days www.onthegotours.com UK  020 7371 1113  [email protected] AUS  1300 855 684  [email protected] NZ 0800 44 77 69       CAN 1 866 890 7038      USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

for exchange. ATMs are not available in Burma and Credit Card and Travellers Cheques are not accepted. We recommend you bring all your holiday money in cash (preferably USD notes).

Holiday Money GBP1 = RM5.2 USD 1 = RM3.2 AUD 1 = RM2-9 EURO1 = 4.2 Malaysia’s currency – the Ringgit (RM) is equivalent to 100 sens (cents). Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 sen and RM1. Notes come in RM1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100. Foreign currency and traveller's cheques can be converted to Malaysian Ringgit at banks or authorized money changers throughout the country or you can purchase currency in advance. ATM’s are common in larger cities however Malaysian pin numbers are 6-digits and some travellers have reported difficulty receiving cash from ATMs using 4-digit pins. We recommend a combination of cash (US, Euro,

Situated between Thailand and Indonesia and a stop along the traditional trading routes of Europe India and China, Malaysia, by its very location has become a melting pot for food. Now known as Nyona, the cuisine takes elements from both Chinese and Malay culture and is a fusion of an array of amazing food experiences. The flavours of Malaysian cooking are chillies, garlic, ginger, Limes & lemongrass – essential to the curry pastes which form the base of many of the dishes and also often used by themselves to add flavour. Coconut milk and palm sugar are frequently added to soften the heat. Wander along the open air eating stalls and try a popiah (spring rolls) or curry puff before moving on to a fish-head curry, Nasi Ayam (Chicken Rice) or a rendang. There’ll be noodles, sambals, seafood curries and fish, all full of flavour. The choice will be limitless, so ready up your tastebuds and get ready to dive-in!

AUD, GBP) and credit/debit cards.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES By international standards, Malaysia presents relatively good value for money. Meals at a local market will average USD3, in a restaurant, USD15 for mid-range, rising to as much as USD30 depending on the establishment and what you order. Bottled water is about USD40c and a local beer anywhere from USD2 - USD5. We recommend you budget USD25-USD30 for meals in addition to your tip kitty and entrance fees.

Essential Packing • A small daypack for your day-to-day needs • Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, swim costume and torch • Lightweight cotton garments • Comfortable walking shoes in addition to flip flogs/ thongs • DEET based mosquito repellent & antihistamine cream • Bring a 2 flat prong (type A) and a 2 round pin (type C) electrical adaptors. A universal adaptor will cover all bases • Lightweight, fold up raincoat/ poncho • Two spare passport photos & a photocopy of your passport

Food Mmmm laksa!!

Borneo Kota Kinabalu - 2 hour sunset/sunrise bike ride  MYR 100-150 Kota Kinabalu - Crocker Range National Park day trip   MYR 400 Kota Kinabalu - Full day bike tour   MYR 60-80 Kota Kinabalu - Full day rafting grade 3-4  MYR 210 Kota Kinabalu - Full day visit to a tribal village  MYR 350 Kota Kinabalu - Gayana Island Marine Eco Resort educational talk and snorkelling   MYR 360 Kota Kinabalu - Half day rafting grade 1-2  MYR 120 Kota Kinabalu - Half-day cooking course   MYR 50 Kota Kinabalu - Mari Mari Cultural Village  MYR 160 Kota Kinabalu - Proboscis Monkey and fireflies river boat trip  MYR 160 Kota Kinabalu - Sabah State Museum  MYR 15 Kota Kinabalu - Tunku Abdul Rahman Park kayaking trip half day/full day   MYR 170/220 Mt Kinabalu - Hot tub at Poring Hot Springs   MYR 20 Mt Kinabalu - Raffesia Flower   MYR 20

updated on 28-01-2017 This information has been compiled with care and good faith. They give an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or other reasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. Any costs shown are subject to change, though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of On The Go Tours.

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TRIP NOTES

Best of Borneo Sepilok - Agnes Keith house & English tea house   MYR 15-50 Sepilok - Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary   MYR 50 plus MYR 100 taxi

Best of Borneo - 12 days www.onthegotours.com UK  020 7371 1113  [email protected] AUS  1300 855 684  [email protected] NZ 0800 44 77 69       CAN 1 866 890 7038      USA 1 866 377 6147     SA 0800 982 686

updated on 28-01-2017 This information has been compiled with care and good faith. They give an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or other reasons could force us to make changes to this itinerary. Any costs shown are subject to change, though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. Please also note that visa requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of On The Go Tours.

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