Sail aboard a catamaran between the Tuamotu’s most beautiful atolls, a paradise for Napoleons, manta rays and reef sharks.
Overview
The Tuamotu Islands, sublime coral rings scattered in the blue waters of the South Pacific, offer exceptional scenery and snorkeling. During this week of pure escape, we’ll sail between three coconut-fringed atolls aboard a catamaran privatized for our group of 8. Each day, we’ll snorkel the crystal-clear waters of the atolls to discover the Polynesian reefs, a paradise for sharks, Napoleons, manta rays, and sea turtles.
Trip Highlights
- Enjoy a tailor-made trip designed for snorkeling fans! In the heart of the Fakarava World Biosphere Reserve, our itinerary includes the exploration of three of Polynesia’s most spectacular and unspoiled atolls. We’ll snorkel at over 12 different sites, including Fakarava’s legendary South Pass.
- From snorkeling to life on board, from landings on wild islets to swimming in pristine lagoons, we’ve planned everything to offer you the experience of a total escape, in contact with the untouched nature of the atolls.
- The Tuamotu Islands offer unparalleled underwater experiences. We’ll snorkel at a variety of sites, including coral drop-offs filled with reef fish, sandy lagoons visited by Napoleon and blacktip sharks, manta ray cleaning stations, as well as exploring passes by drift snorkeling.
- For our small group, we have chartered the Aqua Tiki II, a comfortable 18-meter catamaran with only 4 cabins. All cabins, with a capacity of two people, offer private bathrooms and toilets.
Day 1 :
Arrival in Innsbruck and Alpine Introduction
Arrive in Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, and transfer to your traditional Alpine guesthouse. Explore the historic old town with its colorful baroque buildings and famous Golden Roof. Take the Nordkette cable car for spectacular mountain views and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Tyrolean specialties.
Day 2-3 :
Stubai Valley Alpine Adventure
Journey to the stunning Stubai Valley, known as the 'Kingdom of Glaciers'. Hike through alpine meadows to mountain huts, ride the Stubai Glacier cable car to 3,200 meters, and experience year-round snow. Visit traditional farms and learn about Alpine cheese making. Overnight in mountain accommodation.
Day 4 :
Seefeld Plateau and Olympic Sites
Explore the famous Seefeld Plateau, host of Winter Olympics events. Enjoy moderate hiking trails through pristine forests and meadows, visit the picturesque Lake Wildsee, and discover the charming resort town of Seefeld with its traditional Tyrolean architecture and Olympic heritage.
Day 5-6 :
Zillertal Valley Cultural Immersion
Travel to the Zillertal Valley, famous for its folk music traditions and schnapps distilleries. Take the historic Zillertal Railway, hike to mountain huts serving traditional food, visit a working Alpine farm, and if timing permits, experience local folk music performances and traditional dancing.
Day 7-8 :
Ötztal Alps High Mountain Experience
Adventure into the Ötztal Alps, home to Austria's highest peaks. Take challenging day hikes to alpine lakes, ride cable cars to glacier viewpoints, and visit the area where Ötzi the Iceman was discovered. Stay in a traditional mountain hut and experience authentic Alpine hospitality.
Day 9 :
Kitzbühel and Legendary Skiing Region
Explore the famous resort town of Kitzbühel, home of the legendary Hahnenkamm downhill race. Take scenic hikes around the area, visit traditional shops and cafes, and ride the cable car to Kitzbüheler Horn for spectacular 360-degree mountain views.
Day 10 :
Return to Innsbruck and Departure
Final morning in Tyrol with optional visit to Ambras Castle or Swarovski Crystal Worlds. Last-minute shopping for authentic Tyrolean souvenirs and traditional Austrian products. Transfer to Innsbruck Airport for departure, with memories of an unforgettable Alpine adventure.
Cost
Cost Includes
- 9 nights accommodation in Alpine guesthouses and mountain huts
- daily breakfast and 6 traditional dinners
- professional English-speaking mountain guide
- all cable car and mountain railway tickets
- transfers and transportation throughout Tyrol
- entrance fees to castles and attractions
- detailed hiking maps and route information
- emergency mountain rescue insurance
Cost Excludes
- International flights to/from Innsbruck
- comprehensive travel insurance
- lunches and snacks (except where specified)
- personal hiking equipment and gear
- alcoholic beverages (except welcome dinner)
- personal expenses and souvenirs
- tips for guides and service staff
- optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
- spa treatments at hotels
What level of hiking experience is required?
This trip accommodates various fitness levels with options from moderate valley walks to challenging mountain hikes. Daily hiking ranges 5-7 hours with alternative shorter routes available. Good physical condition and previous hiking experience recommended for mountain sections.
What should I pack for Alpine conditions?
Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for varying mountain weather, waterproof jacket, warm fleece, sun protection, and hiking poles. Detailed packing list with specific Alpine gear recommendations provided upon booking.
Are the mountain huts comfortable?
Yes, we select traditional but comfortable mountain accommodations. Most feature shared facilities, hearty meals, and authentic Alpine atmosphere. Private rooms available in guesthouses, while mountain huts may have dormitory-style accommodation.
What happens during bad weather in the mountains?
Our experienced mountain guides prioritize safety and monitor weather conditions constantly. Alternative indoor activities, cultural visits, and lower-altitude trails are available during adverse weather. Flexible itinerary allows for weather-dependent adjustments.
Can vegetarian or special diets be accommodated?
Yes, Austrian cuisine offers excellent vegetarian options, and we can accommodate most dietary requirements including vegan and gluten-free needs. Please inform us of dietary restrictions when booking for proper arrangement with mountain huts and restaurants.
