We specialize in small group travel, typically ranging from 10 to 12 travelers. Occasionally, we extend to 16 guests when chartering a ship, but this is our limit. This intimate setting allows for personalized attention and a more cohesive travel experience, balancing nature and culture with the inclusion of luminaries such as scientists, lecturers, and archaeologists.

Our founders have over 32 years of experience developing itineraries in more than 102 destinations. We avoid one-night stays whenever possible, with two to three nights at each location being our standard. Our trips are meticulously paced, combining rich cultural and natural experiences with ample downtime to recharge. Flexibility is key, allowing our leaders to tweak itineraries to seize unique opportunities.

Our guides are the cornerstone of the NPE experience. We employ the best leaders in the industry, each with no less than 20 years of experience. Our local master guides, with at least 15 years of experience, bring deep regional insights. In exceptional cases, younger guides who have demonstrated superb abilities are also included.

We collaborate with renowned lecturers and luminaries to enrich our tours. Examples include:

• Dr. Sahi Hawass in Egypt: Private visits to the Sphinx and pyramids before public access and occasional excavation site visits.
• Dr. Walter Alba in Peru: Discoverer of the Lord of Sipan tomb.
• Dr. Francisco Estrada Bell in Guatemala: Leading Mayan archaeologist.
• Ed Smith in Madagascar: Smithsonian Biology Lecturer.
• Pantanal Leaders: Key actors in the Jaguar project.

We prioritize small, characterful boutique hotels equivalent to 4 or 5 stars. In major cities, larger four to five-star hotels are acceptable. We aim to minimize one-night stays, preferring to stay two or more nights at each location. Selectively, we use basic accommodations when they provide unique access to exceptional natural or cultural experiences, followed by stays that meet high Western standards.

Our vehicles are air-conditioned, fully insured, and maintain at least 25% vacancy for added comfort. For 4×4 vehicles, we limit occupancy to three guests per vehicle, ensuring everyone has a window seat. Safari vehicles are tailored to guarantee all guests have excellent views and comfort throughout the journey.

We pride ourselves on providing exceptional culinary experiences tailored to all dietary requirements. Our three-course meals offer at least three choices per course, ensuring quality, variety, and inclusivity of non-alcoholic beverages. We include glasses of wine or cocktails during our group departures’ welcome briefings and farewell dinners. Local cuisine is a key component, with market visits, culinary experiences, and cooking classes in almost all destinations. We balance local and Western-style food to cater to travelers’ tastes over extended periods. During relocations, we stop at clean and safe local restaurants or provide superb picnic lunches or breakfasts. In safari camps, some of our small ships, and upscale hotels, alcoholic drinks are included. Family-style dining is embraced in certain countries, allowing guests to sample a diverse array of local flavors. Our food safety department rigorously evaluates restaurants, and our leaders are trained to assess cleanliness and food handling practices, ensuring a safe dining experience throughout the journey.

Ensuring the availability of water is a top priority. Guests will always have access to water during transfers, tours, meals, and in hotel rooms. While we prefer distributing water through large containers and providing guests with reusable bottles to promote sustainability, we adapt to local conditions where necessary.

Every transfer includes a bottle of water, and our transfer guides wear NPE name tags and hold NPE welcome boards to ensure a warm welcome. Guides are well-versed in the guests’ itinerary and recommend activities that align with the planned schedule. They communicate any service updates or issues directly to the NPE representative via WhatsApp, ensuring smooth coordination.