Dear Travelers: In 2016, many of you joined us in Indonesia to see the Total Solar Eclipse March 9th. In 2017 we have the All America Eclipse August 21st which we will see atop Rendezvous Peak in the Tetons or atop Bald Mountain at Sun Valley. We delighted in Annular Eclipses in Madagascar and Tanzania September 1st, experiences which

were shared with thousands of school children, many of them viewing the eclipse through our eclipse glasses! Wildlife viewing was extraordinary in Tanzania and Madagascar, and we

HERITAGE OF GEORGIA & ARMENIADiscover the heritage of the republic of Georgia on the Black Sea

and mountainous Armenia in the Caucasus! September 15-27, 2017 You will be delighted by this adventure to the republics of Georgia and Armenia with our outstanding Russian leader, Dr. Victor Kuzevanov (born in Georgia)! We will first spend a few days in Georgia and will visit the National Botanic Garden of Georgia, and Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, and Jvari Monastery. See local museums, a convent, villages, a national park, and the subtropical Batumi Botanical Garden on the Black Sea, the richest in plant biodiversity in Russia. Continue to Armenia and visit Lake Sevan. See its colorful autumn garden and monastery; Yerevan and the Pagan Temple of the Sun in Garni.

See Khor Virap Monastery at the foot of the sacred volcanic mountain of Armenia, 16,854 ft Mount Ararat, with Little Ararat 12,782 feet at its side!A complete itinerary will be available by Christmas!

are looking forward to our Uganda Gorilla and Chimp Safari October 23, 2017. Also beckoning in 2017 is our trip to the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece, including the renowned archaeological sites of Olympia and Sparta, and the medieval city of Monemvasia! The new Armenia trip with Dr. Victor Kuzevanov in September 2017 will see the fantastic giant stork nests which used to be on all of the chimney pots in Europe!

Please join us for a terrific adventure!Margaret, Bob, Bill, Taunya, Marisa, Terri, Ellen & April

Betchart Calendar of AdventuresDecember 2016 – November 2017AAAS Travels • Sigma Xi Expeditions • ACS Expeditions • Planetary Society

So Where Can You Go Dec. 2016–Feb. 2017?DECEMBER 2016 – FEBRUARY 2017Costa Rica & Panama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dec 3-10On board National Geographic Sea Lion, a fascinating look at the Panama Canal plus monkeys & snorkeling!South Georgia, the Falklands & Antarctica . . . with 20% discount! . . . . . Dec 14–Jan 4The ultimate journey on board M/V Ortelius to “The Most Beautiful Place in the World!” Call Taunya right away!Botanical Cuba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan 6-15 or Jan 20-29With Dr. Lee Harper and Dr. Carlos Sanchez! An extraordinary opportunity!Discover Peru! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan 28–Feb 3A delightful week to Machu Picchu, Maras, Moray, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Lima!Galapagos Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Feb 3-12On board National Geographic Endeavour II with underwater camera and lots of other extras!Chile & Easter Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Feb 22–Mar 7On board Skorpios II, cruise to the San Rafael Glacier, see an eclipse, and Easter Island!

COSTA RICA & PANAMADecember 3-10, 2016

On board National Geographic Sea Lion

Explore the Panama Canal, superb marine and coastal rainforest reserves, and see sloths, monkeys and more! From $6,390 + air.

Botanical CUBA!A People-to-People ProgramJanuary 6-15 or 20-29, 2017

On this fascinating program we will explore Cuba from a botanical prespective with Dr. Lee Harper and Cuban botanist Dr. Carlos Sanchez. Begin in Old Havana, then continue to the Escambray Mountains, the former Harvard Botanic Garden and the world heritage cities of Trinidad and Cienfuegos!

The Cuban natural world is reflected in their national symbols: the royal palm with its swollen upper trunk; the white mariposa, the national flower; and the national bird, the tocororo. Come ride in old cars on the Malecon and discover the delights of Cuba! $4,495–$4,995 + air.

SOUTH GEORGIAthe Falklands & AntarcticaDecember 14–January 4, 2017

Breathtaking, extraordinary, and “The Most Beautiful Place In the World!” A rare opportunity on board M/V Ortelius with a 20% discount! See wildlife and walk in the footsteps of Shackleton. Spaces are limited, so please call Taunya immediately. From $10,560 + air.

With 20%

Discount!

Enjoy the Southern Hemi sphere in summer exploring Chile from its heartland in Santiago to the spectacular islands, fjords and mountains of Patagonian Chile. Our journey will culminate in an optional extension to fabled Easter Island! Begin in the historic capital city, Santiago—Chile’s largest city and then fly to Puerto Montt & Puerto Varas on the shores of spectacular Lake Llanquihue.Then sail just south of Puerto Aguirre to see the eclipse & San Rafael Glacier. From $5,855 + air.

Chile & Easter IslandFebruary 22–March 4, 2017

optional Easter Island extension to March 7, 2017!

Discover PeruJanuary 28–February 3, 2017

Machu Picchu & other extraordinary archaeological sites and Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire

Katherine Greenberg & Carlos Sanchez (Jan 20-29)

So Where Can You Go March–April 2017?

COPPER CANYON,MEXICO

In 2017, we will explore Copper Canyon, or Barranca del Cobre, on a memorable Easter adventure that will bring you dramatic scenery, natural history and the Tarahumara Indians on one of the most unique adventures in the Americas!This Easter expedition offers

you a special opportunity to be in Copper Canyon at the time of the Tarahumara Indian Easter celebrations.Join Betchart leader Cathy

Waterman as we explore Copper Canyon—one of the world’s biggest canyon systems. The striking volcanic

scenery, bridges, tunnels, and villages will be seen from the “train in the sky” and on the new tram! $3,195 + air.

April 10-17, 2017An Easter Adventure!

For detailed brochures and more information, please contact: Betchart Expeditions Inc., 17050 Montebello Road

Cupertino, California 95014-5435 Telephone: (800) 252-4910 or (408) 252-4910Fax: (408) 252-1444Email: Info@betchartexpeditions.com

See pdf’s of brochures on our web site: www.betchartexpeditions.comIf you cannot travel and wish to be removed from the mailing list, please let us know. Please give this brochure to a friend!Prices are per person based on twin share + air.©2016 Betchart Expeditions Inc. All rights reserved. CST# 2036304-40

ALASKA Aurora BorealisCome see the Greatest Light Show on Earth!

March 2-8, 2017

Galápagos is a life-list must! It is legendary for unique wild-life that has never developed an instinctive flight response to humans, making for incredible up-close encounters and fabulous photos. Travel aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II. From $6,960 pp share + air.

GALÁPAGOSMarch 31–April 9, 2017

Aboard M/V Endeavour II

Free Air

from Miami!

Contacts & Questions!

Explore the Sea of Cortez on this tremendous spring getaway! From $6,190 pp share + air.

Whales & WildnessApril 15-22, 2017

MARCH – APRIL 2017Alaska Aurora Borealis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 2-8The Greatest Light Show on Earth with astronomer Dr. Tyler Nordgren! Sled dogs, grizzlies, moose, muskox & more!Costa Rica & Panama Canal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 11-18On National Geograpic Sea Lion! Wildlife, tropical birds, snorkeling, and kayaking. Really outstanding!Galapagos Islands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 31–April 9On board M/V Endeavour II with FREE air from Miami!Copper Canyon at Easter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 10-17Close to home and a rich cultural experience! See Copper Canyon by train from Los Mochis to 8,000 feet!Whales & Wildness: Spring in the Sea of Cortez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 15-22On board National Geograpic Sea Bird! Explore this World Heritage wilderness. A splendid spring getaway!

So Where Can You Go April–May 2017?

JAPAN'S HERITAGE!including Takayama in the Japanese Alps Historic Kyoto & Nara • May 14-26, 2017

Explore the heritage and delights of the amazing country of Japan! Visit World Heritage Sites and National Treasures, palaces, and gardens. Venture up Mt. Fuji to the 5th station, and ferry across the Inland Sea to the Itsukushima Shrine on the little island of Miyajima. Take the Express Train to Nagoya and Kyoto, and the Komagatake Ropeway (cable car) to the summit of Mt. Komagatake for spectacular views. Discover the ancient heritage of Japan in Takayama in the Japanese Alps with memorable experiences! $5,495 + air.

Discover renowned sites from Mycenae to Epidaurus, Sparta and Olympia, Delphi and Meteora! A highlight is the acropolis of Ancient Corinth that housed the Temple of Aphrodite. Explore the citadel of Mycenae (center of Greek civilization during the 2nd millennium BC). Visit Delphi, perched high on a mountain with a view toward the Corinth Canal & Peloponnese. Continue to Meteora where ancient monasteries cling to immense rock moun-tains overlooking the Greek countryside. $4,295 pp + air.

Aegean Treasures of the Peloponnese & Meteora!

April 26–May 10, 2017

Wild & Prehistoric

FRANCEMay 12-25, 2017

Including Lascaux II & Rouffignac

Join Mark Walters to discover wild areas and prehistoric sites in Haute Provence, the Massif Central, and the Dordogne, including spectacular gorge country populated by raptors, remote villages, and images of the greatest cave paintings in Europe at Lascaux II. In Quinson explore the Musée de Préhistoire and the spectacular Gorges du Verdon and in Roquefort, see the standing stone and look for blackcaps, woodpeckers, firecrests and many other woodland bird species. See the famous cave paintings in Lascaux II, then follow the river to another spectacular cave, Rouffignac. $3,995 + air.

ALASKA DENALI ADVENTUREMay 29–June 4, 2017

A delightful 7-day adventure from Anchorage to the Kenai, Denali, and Fairbanks! $3,690 + air.

APRIL – MAY 2017Greek Treasures of the Peloponnese & Meteora! . . . . . . . . . . . April 26–May 10With Aegean expert Dr. Ken Sheedy, discover Mycenae, Epidaurus, Monemvasia, Sparta, Olympia, and Meteora! Visit an extraordinary number of key archaeological sites and museums.Wild & Prehistoric France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 12-25With Mark Walters, discover images of the greatest cave paintings in Europe at Lascaux II & Rouffignac. With charming small hotels.Japan’s Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 14-26Discover World Heritage Sites and national treasures, Mt. Fuji, Takayama in the Japanese Alps, Kyoto, Nara, and more!Alaska Denali Adventure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29–June 4From Anchorage to Portage Glacier, enjoy river rafting, Denali National Park & Fairbanks! This is a pre-trip to Alaska Voyage.

So Where Can You Go June–July 2017?JUNE – JULY 2017Alaska Voyage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 4-11On board National Geographic Sea Lion, from Juneau to Sitka, with stunning glaciers, bald eagles & outstanding naturalists!China by High Speed Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 6-20 With Optional Yangtze River Extension to June 25Join Chris Carpenter to discover superb historic sites not on the normal tourist routes, including three of China’s Sacred Mountains!Wild Iceland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 13-22Discover Iceland in all of its beauty with our excellent Icelandic leader Oskar Halldorsson.In Search of Amelia Earhart . . . . . . . . . . . June 21–July 11On the 80th Anniversary of her Round the World Flight, come search for more evidence of Amelia landing at Nikumaroro! With dazzling ocean vistas, spinner dolphins, boobies, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving!Kamchatka & Lake Baikal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 23–Aug 7Explore Russia’s two finest wilderness areas! Meet ethnic people, helicopter to 20,000+ foot volcanoes, take the Trans Siberian Express to Irkutsk, explore Lake Baikal by hydrofoil!

An Adventure by High Speed Rail to Sacred Mountains, the Grand Canal & Ancient Cities

CHINA by Rail

Including Seven World Heritage Sites!

June 6-20, 2017with Optional Yangtze River

Ext. to June 25

Explore One of the Greatest Mysteries of the 20th Century!In Search of

AMELIA EARHARTJune 21–July 11, 2017

On board the Reef EndeavourOn the 80th Anniversary of Amelia’s World Flight & Disappearance!

Iceland has captured the imagination of people all over the world since Jules Verne wrote “Journey to the Center of the Earth” in 1871. Iceland has a proud heritage—it is the world’s oldest democracy. Its wildlife and natural wonders are truly magical! Experience Iceland, from geology to history, and fabulous wildlife! $3,995 pp + air.

Land of Fire & Ice & Nature’s Paradise!

Wild IcelandJune 13-22, 2017

Explore the two finest natural areas in Russia—Kamchatka Peninsula and Lake Baikal! Take the Trans Siberian Express from the Russian Far East across the vast taiga of Russia to Irkutsk and Lake Baikal. Baikal is the richest single location in Russia for endemism, a fabulous reservoir of unique flora and fauna. It is the oldest and deepest lake in the world. We invite you to join Dr. Victor Kuzevanov for a fascinating adventure! $5,995 pp + air.

Including the Trans-Siberian ExpressJuly 23–August 7, 2017

KAMCHATKA& Lake Baikal

5 rooms

available!

8 rooms

available!

6 rooms

available!

So Where Can You Go August–September 2017?AUGUST – SEPTEMBER 2017Grand Tetons Total Solar Eclipse . . . . . . . . . . . Aug 15-23See the World Center for Birds of Prey in Boise, the Hagerman fossil beds, the mammoth found in American Falls Reservoir in 2014, the Grand Tetons & Yellowstone. Waiting List only! Please sign up for Sun Valley (same itinerary)!Sun Valley Total Solar Eclipse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aug 18-26This trip includes the same features as the Grand Tetons trip, but you see the eclipse atop a peak at Sun Valley, instead of on Rendezvous Peak in Jackson Hole. Space Is Available!Iceland & West Greenland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aug 22-30Explore the Reykjavik area, then take free charter flights to West Greenland to explore the dramatic landscapes on board the National Geographic Explorer! With Dr. Laurie McHargue.Xinjiang & Hunza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aug 27–Sept 13Explore the rich cultural heritage of far western China plus the extraordinary landscapes and warm people of Hunza, surrounded by 20,000+ foot peaks and enormous glaciers. With Dr. Chris Carpenter.Heritage of Georgia & Armenia . . . . . . September 15-27With Dr. Victor Kuzevanov, explore the heritage of these republics on the Baltic Sea and in the Caucasus Mountains. Brochure available by Christmas!British Columbia & San Juan Islands . . . . . . . Sept 21-28Close to home, and, oh so delightful! On board the new Lindblad vessel, the National Geographic Quest!

Xinjiang & HunzaLofty Peaks, National Parks, and

Villages of the Silk Road & Karakoram!August 27–September 13, 2017

See the Total Solar Eclipse August 21, 2017

Sun Valley Idaho EclipseTetons & Yellowstone • August 18-26, 2017

Join our adventure in the American West to see the Total Solar Eclipse overlooking Sun Valley, Idaho! Discover pre-historic sites from Boise to the Tetons. Follow the Snake River to an important fossil site. Ride in cable cars with an incredible 360-degree view of Jackson Hole, the Tetons, and Yellowstone National Park. Trip fee: $4,595 + air.

August 21, 2017

Grand Tetons Total EclipseAugust 15-23, 2017

Call to be on Wait List!

Iceland & West GreenlandA Land of Hot Springs & Icebergs

on board National Geographic ExplorerAugust 22-30, 2017

Join Dr. Laurie McHargue to explore the natural splendor of Iceland and the spectacular landscapes of West Greenland. Discover the culture, cuisine, and character of Reykjavik and the renowned Golden Circle. Then take a charter flight over Greenland’s massive ice cap (one of the most scenic flights in the world), and board the finest expedition ship, National Geographic Explorer, to discover the coast of West Greenland. Sail along Greenland’s ice edge and into its deep fjords. Meet hardy inhabitants who call the Arctic home and possibly see the Northern lights in all their glory! Delight in the wild outdoors and the rare opportunity to explore this area on a suberb expedition vessel! From $6,990 per person share + air to Iceland.

10 Rooms

Available!

Ilulissat

So Where Can You Go October–November 2017?

On this “Voyage in the Wake of Lewis and Clark,” we will explore the Columbia River along the Oregon-Washington border (once the drainageway of the famous Lake Missoula). We will navigate the Columbia on a series of 8 locks, each an engineering marvel. We will explore along shore in kayaks and zodiacs, and enjoy the tales and knowledge of our superb team of trip naturalists. From $4,390 + air.

New ZealandNovember 17–December 2, 2017

Travel with a superb New Zealand naturalist Lloyd Esler!

From kiwis to kakas, temperate rainforests to glacial valleys, New Zealand possesses a rich heritage. Discover the fasci-nating geyserfields in Rotorua, the plunging cliffs at Milford Sound, the spec tacular peaks and glaciers of the Southern Alps including remote Stewart Island! $4,995 + air.

Columbia RiverOctober 19-25, 2017

On board National Geographic Sea Lion

OCTOBER – NOVEMBER 2017Discover Madagascar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oct 7-22With our excellent naturalist Herilala, discover the lemurs and unique natural heritage of Madagascar. Habituated lemurs may perch on your shoulder! Walk trails to look for the big sifakas. Delight in flying foxes, chameleons and more! There is nothing like it!Columbia River Voyage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oct 19-25Our traditional voyage on M/V Sea Bird, with outstanding geologist Dr. Patrick Muffler. Discover the Columbia River gorge, see the lofty peak of Mt. Hood, delight in the wineries, and travel through eight locks!Headwaters of the Amazon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oct 21-30Explore the upper Amazon on board the Delphin II. Macaws and parrots wing through the rain forest as you delight in the special ambiance of the Amazon forests, rivers, and trails. Very worthwhile!Uganda Gorilla & Chimp Safari . . . . . . . . . . . Oct 23–Nov 5A real thrill with Dr. David Bygott to track gorillas and chimps. See Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park!New Zealand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov 17–Dec 2Our annual New Zealand adventure with outstanding naturalist Lloyd Esler! Discover Stewart Island, Fiordland and Haast’s Pass National Parks, and the unique birds and Maori heritage of New Zealand!

MADAGASCARExplore the Unique Heritage of this Enchanting Land

October 7-22, 2017

HEADWATERS of the Amazon

Explore the upper Amazon on board the Delphin II. See macaws and parrots wing through the rain forest as you delight in the special ambiance of the Amazon forests, rivers, and trails. From $6,990 + air.

October 21-30, 2017

October 23–November 5, 2017

Gorilla & Chimp Uganda Safari

FIRST CLASS

Travel Adventures Just for You! December 2016–November 2017

17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5435

AAAS Travels • SigmaXi ExpeditionsACS Expeditions • Planetary Society

BETCHARTEXPEDITIONS Inc. For Information

phone (800) 252-4910!

Voyage In Search of Amelia Earhart • June 21–July 11, 2017

On the 80th Anniversary of Amelia’s flight around the world, we are sailing on Reef Endeavour to look for more evidence that Amelia landed her Electra on Nikumaroro Island. We will be exploring the Seven Site for more bones, and where Fred Noonan’s grave site may have been found on our 2015 voyage. We invite ALL who are interested in joining this voyage to contact us for cabin options and pricing. This will likely be the last opportunity for members of the public to get to Nikumaroro at a low price (compared to the high price on research vessels). We want EVERYONE who has any interest in helping look for Amelia to be in touch right away and to go. TIGHAR has already discovered alot, and we want to add to this treasure chest of knowledge in 2017! Call us at (800) 252-4910!

Discover the cave art in France, the heritage of Armenia, and more!