Travel

Explore the world

At the University of Denver, giving students the chance to explore our global community is a time-honored tradition that allows them to strengthen cultural ties and gain new perspectives. Those opportunities continue after graduation. Pioneer Journeys offers alumni, parents and friends of the University a chance to stay connected to DU while immersing themselves in new travel experiences. Alongside specially selected faculty lecturers, you and your fellow Pioneers can continue to explore the world long after graduation.

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Upcoming Trips

solar eclipse

Total Solar Eclipse, Mexico City & Mazatlan, Mexico

April 4 – 10, 2024

Enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see one of the world’s most incredible wonders: a total solar eclipse. Join fellow celestial enthusiasts and fellow alumni on a 7-day trip to Mexico, where in addition to seeing the eclipse at our exclusive and private location, you’ll discover ruins, explore the country’s rich culture, and enjoy the relaxed shores of Mexico’s west coast.

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celtic lands

The Celtic Lands: 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Invasion

May 28 – June 7, 2024

Join us on an eleven-day, 8-night, 5-star cruise from London to Glasgow to discover the Celtic legacy of France, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland—featuring a special celebration of the 80th anniversary of D-Day.  Meet special guest speakers Dwight David Eisenhower II, grandson of President Dwight D. Eisenhower; Allen Packwood OBE, Director of the Churchill Archives Center; and Andrew Roberts, esteemed Churchill historian and author. 

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arctic

Land of the Ice Bears: An in-depth exploration of Arctic Svalbard

May 30 – June 8, 2024

Stretching across the top of the globe and touching eight countries, the Arctic is rife with opportunity for every type of explorer, whether you seek iconic wildlife, epic icescapes, or enriching encounters with cultures of the far North. A high Arctic-archipelago situated beyond Norway’s fjord-fretted coast, a mere 600 miles from the North Pole, Svalbard is a place of deep fjords, snowcapped mountains, and massive sheets of ice––glowing under the midnight sun during our season there.

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italy

The Wine & Food of Italy

June 16 – 28, 2024

Join Professor David Corsun on a custom designed journey through the Tuscany and Piemont areas of Italy to share the amazing regional wine and food of Italy.  Our program has exclusive visits to wineries, not normally open to the public with VIP access, tours, tastings and sumptuous lunches and dinners. Visits include VIP tour of the Castello Banfi’s Italian Flagship winery in Camigliano with a and educational session on Italian wines, a tour of the facility and lunch in the castle’s dining room.

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galapagos

The Galapagos Islands: 8-days of Wonder and Amazement

July 2 – 9, 2024

Join fellow alumni and friends as we explore the Galapagos Islands. Designated the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galapagos Islands have been described as a “unique living museum and showcase of evolution.” They are home to a fascinating array of wildlife inhabiting an unspoiled ecosystem, living in harmony with their human visitors.

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peru

Peru Explorer

July 18 – 26, 2024

A land of treasures archaeological, cultural, and natural, Peru draws those eager to learn about the distant past – and encounter a fascinating present.  As our group takes in some of the country’s highlights – Cuzco, Machu Picchu, – we marvel at the riches of an intriguing land somewhat off the beaten path. 

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danube

Cruising the Danube: Vienna to the Black Sea

September 26 – October 8, 2024

Join us on this thirteen-day, 11-night tour featuring a 9-night luxury cruise along the Danube River where we visit seven prominent countries (Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania) and five capital cities—all excursions included. Experience one of the greatest river journeys in the world, navigating the fabled blue Danube River from Vienna to the Black Sea; Cruise through the dramatic Iron Gates dividing the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains and two nights in Bucharest, Romania.

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provence

Flavors of Provence Sailing the Rhone & Saone Rivers

October 1 – 10, 2024

Awaken your senses as you explore the French countryside, sailing the picturesque Rhone and Saone Rivers. From the comfort of your 140-guest luxury vessel, Amadeus Provence, discover a bounty of flavors, stand in awe before towering castles, feel the texture of vines that produce the wines of Burgundy and the Provence, and taste your way through France’s gastronomic capital, Lyon. History, art, architecture, and natural beauty stimulate the mind and satisfy the soul on this journey.

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austria vienna

Christkindlmärkt Along the Danube River

November 29 – December 7, 2024

Celebrate the Season with Old-World Traditions. Join DU and experience Yuletide magic on an enchanting Danube River cruise to visit some of Europe’s oldest and most iconic Christmas Markets. Our seven-night river cruise from Nuremberg, Germany to Vienna, Austria pairs historic cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and imperial monuments from the Hapsburg dynasty with visits to Old World Christmas Markets that have existed for centuries.

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tahiti borabora

Tahiti & French Polynesia

February 21 - March 3, 2025

Explore the idyllic islands, atolls and motus of French Polynesia on this uniquely designed ninenight voyage. Sail for seven nights aboard the FiveStar, 74stateroom Wind Spirit and enjoy unmatched smallship sailing. Enjoy unmatched small-ship sailing amid the emerald-green peaks, chalk-white atolls, and blue lagoons of the Society Islands with a list of optional excursions.

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thailand

Essential Thailand

February 13 - 25, 2025

Thailand, known as the "Land of Smiles," is a captivating destination that beckons travelers with its rich cultural tapestry, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. From the bustling markets of Bangkok to mountains of the north, Thailand offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of adventurer. Immerse yourself in the country's ancient temples, such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun, marveling at their intricate architecture and spiritual significance.

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baja california

Wild Baja California Escape: The Whales of Magdalena Bay

March 7-12, 2025

Magdalena Bay is well known as one of three lagoons on Baja California’s Pacific coast that becomes home to over 20,000 California gray whales each winter. This extraordinary inland water system is absolutely the best place to be to view this remarkable gathering. Mid-January until early April is the season for the whales, and our voyage there aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird occurs at peak time for possible encounters with active, curious calves and mothers.

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morocco

The Best of Morocco

March 21 - 31, 2025

Discover the spectacular sites of Morocco on this 10-day guided tour. View Morocco's largest mosque in Casablanca and indulge in a feast of aromatic tagines and exotic fruits inside the ancient palace in Fes. Then take time to watch the enticing art of belly dancing. Be awed by the rugged red mountains of Dades Valley, then sip wild-herb tea alongside local nomads.

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european

European Coastal Cruise

May 3 - 12, 2025

Explore the storied legacies and dynamic cultures of coastal Portugal, Spain, France, and England and commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day on this 8-night cruise itinerary. Discover Portugal’s renowned wine country, walk in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims in Santiago de Compostela, visit Bilbao’s iconic Guggenheim Museum, and see UNESCO-inscribed Mont-Saint-Michel’s impressive abbey. Visit three UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the astonishing island monastery of Mont-Saint-Michel; the Christian world’s third holiest city of Santiago de Compostela; and spirited Oporto, the center of world-famous port wine and Moorish-influenced architecture.

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greece

Island Life: Greek Isles & Ephesus

May 9 - 17, 2025

Journey to the cradle of Western civilization and the classical world on this Aegean voyage exploring the preserved treasures and mythical landscapes of Greece and Turkey. all on the islands of Volos, Delos, Mykonos, Patmos, Rhodes, and Santorini on this epic, eight-night voyage. Enjoy excursions to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora; Delos’ classical ruins, including the Sanctuary of Apollo and the theater quarter; the archaeological site and ancient ruins of Ephesus; and Santorini, believed to be the legendary lost city of Atlantis.

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uganda

Gorillas in the Rift: Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

May 11 – 22, 2025

Join fellow alumni on this once-in-a-lifetime trip to see the last remaining apes in Uganda. Only 740 mountain gorillas still make their home in the primeval forests of central Africa. This trip enables you to intimately experience these animals in their natural habitat, while learning firsthand about the history and cultural heritage of this fascinating country. Explore Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a life changing  gorilla tracking experience as well as tranquil nature walks through the forest.

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denali

Discover Denali National Park

July 13 - 18, 2025

Journey into the scenic wilds of America's most northern state, through Alaska's rugged forests and wildlife. Your destination: the magnificent, six-million acre Denali National Park and Reserve. Familiarize yourself with the park, walking its trails with a guide, and choose from optional excursions to personalize your adventure. Keep binoculars close at hand: this dazzling and vast wilderness is home to Dall sheep, eagles, wolves, migrating caribou, and grizzly bears—and catching sight of them is a thrill not soon forgotten.

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scandinavia

Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea

July 20 - 30, 2025

Discover the lands and legacies forged by centuries of Baltic history on a 9-night cruise to visit 7 countries, featuring special guest speaker Lech Wałesa, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and former President of Poland. This Polish national hero will be speaking by exclusive arrangement about the establishment of the Polish Solidarity labor movement and the struggles he overcame when confronting a Soviet-backed regime—a message that will be more poignant than ever.

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cliffs of moher

Irish Wonder: Dublin, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and Northern Ireland

August 5 - 13, 2025

Centuries of Irish culture and heritage are revealed on this adventure across the windswept valleys of Ireland, from Dublin to the breathtaking coastal landscapes of Connemara. Kiss the Blarney Stone, witness Mother Nature’s magic touch at the Cliffs of Moher and circle the Ring of Kerry. There’s much to celebrate on this grand 9-day journey across the 'Emerald Isle'.

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turkey

The Wonders of Turkey

September 12 – 23, 2025

East meets West in this Turkish extravaganza which reveals the Byzantine and Ottoman past of Istanbul, the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia and some of the world’s most revered ancient cities. Get lost in the colorful lanes of the Grand Bazaar, watch the dizzying dance of the Whirling Dervishes, and descend into an underground fortress. Mother Nature and man have crafted an extraordinary land, over which empires have fought for centuries, and you’ll get to see all its wonders on this 11-day journey.

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sicily

Flavors of Sicily

September 26 – October 2, 2025

Join us on a captivating, nine-day journey through the heart of Sicily to discover the vibrant island’s historical and cultural treasures. Explore renowned archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage sites, indulge in delicious cuisine and wine, and partake in hands-on cooking classes with celebrated chefs who share recipes and culinary techniques passed down through generations.

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cambodia

Cambodia & Vietnam: From Ancient Temples to Bustling Cities

October 2 – 16, 2025

Experience the magic of Cambodia and Vietnam on a 2-week guided tour. Explore the ancient temples of Angkor Archaeological Park, including the infamous Angkor Wat. See the spectacular ‘Phare, the Cambodian Circus,’ an acrobatic performance by local youth. In Ho Chi Minh, you’ll sail on a speedboat toward the Cu Chi tunnels, where guerrilla fighters once hid from combatant forces during the Vietnam War; here, a Viet Cong veteran will share his harrowing experiences with you.

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patagonia

Patagonia and Chilean Fjords

October 22 - November 2, 2025

Experience the wonder of discovery as you travel through mesmerizing landscapes almost untouched since Magellan found them nearly 500 years ago. Our unique 12-day voyage to Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords begins in Santiago, Chile, on a land and sea itinerary that takes you in the path of legendary explorers Captain Robert FitzRoy and Charles Darwin—through the Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley, and Wulaia Bay. See distinctive subantarctic and Patagonian wildlife, including guanacos, rheas, condors, elephant seals, and Magellanic penguins.

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travel classes

Travel Insurance

Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, the last thing you want to see is thousands of dollars of non-refundable purchases disappear because of an unforeseen event. The travel medical and trip protection insurance offered by our partners ensures you'll never miss out on your trip—and you'll be safe in the event of an unexpected medical issue.

Coverage is available for individuals or groups, and for personal or business travel. No matter where you're going, chances are we can help you protect your trip against the unexpected.

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Upcoming Adventures

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