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.
Upcoming Trips
Spanish Experience: 9-day Adventure to Madrid, Seville, Granada & Barcelona
April 16-24, 2026
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Spain, a land where history, culture, and natural beauty converge in perfect harmony. Stroll through Madrid's lively streets, indulge in world-class art, and savor its culinary delights. Discover Seville's captivating charm, with its flamenco beats, grand cathedrals, and sunlit plazas. In Granada, lose yourself in the timeless beauty of the Alhambra and the enchanting Albayzín district. Barcelona offers a feast for the senses, from Gaudí’s architectural wonders to its Mediterranean beaches and vibrant nightlife. Whether you're exploring ancient Moorish palaces, relaxing on golden sands, or sampling tapas in lively squares, Spain promises an adventure that will awaken your spirit and leave you longing for more. Let Spain's warmth, passion, and diversity inspire your next great escape.
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Sicily, Malta & the Amalfi Coast From Rome to Valletta
May 25 – June 2, 2026
Cruise for 7 nights from Rome, Italy, to Valletta, Malta, aboard the 92-cabin World Traveller, an exclusively chartered, deluxe small ship. Experience a specially arranged visit to the Historical Museum of the Landing in Sicily 1943. Our itinerary visits six UNESCO World Heritage sites: Archaeological Area of Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, Syracuse, Arab-Norman Palermo and Cathedral Church of Monreale and Aeolian Islands, Italy, and City of Valletta, Malta.
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Best of the Balkans
June 27 - July 5, 2026
Journey from medieval ruins to ancient Roman sights on this 9-day exploration of the Best of the Balkans, featuring the historic town centers of Dubrovnik and Split. You'll wander through multicultural cities, hear moving stories of war and discover the stunning architecture. Centuries of history will be revealed through the eyes of Local Specialists who share their secrets of the Balkans.
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Cruise the Norwegian Fjords: In the Path of the Vikings
May 24 – June 3, 2026
Set sail through the spellbinding fjords of Norway on a luxurious 11-day cruise aboard the five-star SH Diana. This exclusive University of Denver journey begins in Amsterdam with iconic cultural experiences, then crosses the North Sea to visit Germany’s remote Heligoland before arriving in Norway to explore charming villages, dramatic landscapes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Highlights include the Flåm Railway, Geiranger’s Eagle Road, and immersive Viking history at Sagastad. With expert guides, optional hiking and kayaking excursions, and exceptional onboard service, this adventure offers both natural wonder and cultural depth—all at a special alumni rate.
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Discovering Southeast Alaska
July 31 – August 7, 2026
Enjoy the agility and flexibility of small-ship travel during this expedition cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage. Alongside expert naturalists and knowledgeable on-board crew, navigate narrow channels and waterways inaccessible by larger vessels. While exploring some of nature’s more secluded landscapes, encounter Alaska's abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery and ice-blue glaciers of unfathomable proportions
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Peru Explorer
July 13-19, 2026
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. Starting in the gastronomic capital of Lima, sip Pisco Sours and admire colonial casas before heading to the rugged beauty of the Sacred Valley. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas as you admire one of the New Wonders of the World rising above the clouds, then finish your trip in ancient, cultural Cusco.
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Treasures of Madagascar
August 2–17, 2026
With biodiversity to rival the Galapagos Islands, towns of historical significance, beautiful beaches of golden sand and a remarkable culture influenced by Europe, Africa and the East, Madagascar's rare riches are well worth discovering. Venture into national parks to experience profound moments in nature, mellow out on idyllic islands, stroll through heritage towns and spot quirky wildlife not found anywhere else on this earth.
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Spectacular Seine River
Sold out - Waitlist only
September 19 - 27, 2026
Cruise for 7 nights round-trip Paris to Normandy and back aboard an exclusively chartered river boat. During the itinerary, visit three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Rouen, a gastronomic city in Normandy; the spectacular palace of Versailles; and the Seine riverbanks of Paris, the "City of Light."
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Around the World by Private Jet
September 13 - October 3, 2026
Step aboard a private Boeing 767 jet plane for a once-in-a-lifetime travel adventure to discover some of the world’s greatest icons, destinations, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Stonehenge, the Great Pyramids, Petra, the Taj Mahal, the Jantar Mantar Observatory, Angkor Wat, and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, to name a few. This uniquely curated program features insight from knowledgeable instructors and planned extraordinary excursions, providing special understanding into some of humankind’s greatest achievements.
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Singapore to Bali
Sept 25 - Oct 10, 2026
Join CWRU as we travel to remote spots in Indonesia's archipelago, featuring distinctive animals and wildlife, on the exclusively chartered, first-class expedition ship 82-cabin Heritage Adventurer. Our itinerary will visit three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Borobudur Temple Compounds and Prambanan Temple Compounds, Indonesia; Komodo National Park, Komodo, Indonesia; UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: Tanjung Puting National Park, Borneo, Indonesia.
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Spain, Portugal & Morocco
October 16 – 25, 2026
Cruise for 8 nights from Barcelona, Spain, to Lisbon, Portugal, aboard the 100-cabin World Voyager, an exclusively chartered, deluxe small ship. Our program has a specially arranged small ship cruise along the Guadalquivir River for a visit to the ancient Andalusian city of Seville. The itinerary includes visits to four UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Lonja de la Seda Gothic-style silk exchange building in Valencia: the Royal Alcázar and Cathedral in Seville; and the magnificent Alhambra Palace in Granada.
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Egypt and the Nile
January 17 – 29, 2027
Join us for a historical and cultural immersion into Egypt's ancient treasures and timeless wonders. From iconic landmarks to architectural marvels that have captivated the world for millennia, this land of pharaohs and pyramids is undeniably a crucial part of human history. Among the countless highlights—you'll embark upon a private dahabiya sailing the tranquil Nile River, gaining rare access to ruins and temples during less occupied times. On land, stay at five-star hotels, each a sanctuary of comfort and luxury. This unhurried journey reveals Egypt's monumental historical events, staggering technological achievements, and compelling human stories.
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Cuba: A Cultural Immersion
February 10 – 18, 2027
Experience the vibrant soul of Cuba on a nine-day journey that blends history, art, and personal connection. Explore three UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Old Havana, Cienfuegos, and Trinidad—each revealing a unique chapter in the island’s colonial and cultural story. Meet Cuba’s cuentapropistas—independent entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators—who are shaping the nation’s future from within. From the colorful mosaic streets of Fusterlandia to the lush tobacco fields of Viñales, every encounter offers authentic insight into Cuban life. Savor meals at privately owned paladares, and enjoy classic 1950s convertible rides through Havana.
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The Luxurious Caribbean Sea
February 1 – 9, 2027
Escape the winter and set sail on an extraordinary eight-night windjammer voyage through the sun-drenched Caribbean aboard the Sea Cloud Spirit, a luxurious three-masted sailing yacht blending timeless elegance with modern comfort. Journey from St. Maarten to Curaçao, calling at six enchanting islands—St. Barthelemy, Dominica, Bequia, St. Lucia, Grenada, and Bonaire—each offering its own blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Snorkel in turquoise bays, wander tropical rainforests, visit spice plantations and UNESCO World Heritage sites, and marvel at St. Lucia’s iconic Pitons. Relax under billowing white sails as the crew hoists them by hand, savoring the serenity of true sailing in one of the world’s most captivating seas.
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An Adventure in Costa Rica: From the Cloud Forests to the Coast
March 19 – 28, 2027
Experience Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” spirit on this immersive nature adventure through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Journey from the vibrant capital of San José to the remote waterways of Tortuguero National Park, where monkeys, toucans, and sloths thrive in lush rainforest. Visit a family-run heart-of-palm plantation and sample local delicacies, then walk amid the canopy of the Arenal Hanging Bridges with sweeping views of the iconic Arenal Volcano. Continue to the mist-shrouded Monteverde Cloud Forest, and discovering the unique biodiversity of this mystical region. Along the way, enjoy eco-friendly lodgings, authentic cultural experiences, and the warmth of Costa Rica’s people on an unforgettable journey from coast to cloud forest.
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Holland and Belgium: Along the Dutch Waterways
April 23 -May 1, 2027
Sail through the heart of the Low Countries on a 7-night deluxe river cruise showcasing the timeless beauty of Holland and Belgium. From Amsterdam’s iconic canals and Delft’s world-famous porcelain to Antwerp’s lively streets and the fairytale charm of Bruges, every stop immerses you in rich history and culture. Highlights include a private canal cruise, a special visit to the Kröller-Müller Museum—home to one of the world’s largest Van Gogh collections—and the vibrant springtime display at Keukenhof Gardens. Along the way, enjoy fine dining, elegant accommodations, and guided tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites that bring these destinations to life.
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Greece: Athens & Kalamata
April 16 – 25, 2027
Join our eight-night adventure in Athens and the Peloponnese, a land shaped by Greece’s famous myths and city-states. Imagine ancient urban life as you amble through ruins of great cities. Visit the Bronze Age kingdom of Mycenae and less explored Messene. Soak up the ambience of Mystras, a stunning Byzantine city, and tour ancient Olympia, birthplace of the modern Olympics. Learn how olives and their rich, green oil seep into every aspect of Greek life. Experience the timeless traditions of winemaking (and tasting!) and folk dancing. In the evenings, stroll along sidewalks adorned with magenta bougainvillea blossoms, savor an alfresco meal and capture memories of a lifetime.
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The Best of Southern Africa: Desert & Deltas South Africa • Botswana • Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
May 9 – 19, 2027
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Southern Africa’s most captivating landscapes on The Best of Southern Africa: Deserts & Deltas. Begin in Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant heart, where culture, resilience, and innovation intersect. Venture into the untamed beauty of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with elephants, lions, hippos, and dazzling birdlife—explored by game drive, walking safari, or mokoro canoe. Continue to Chobe National Park, home to Africa’s largest elephant population, for thrilling wildlife encounters on both land and river safaris. Conclude at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, where “The Smoke That Thunders” cascades into the mighty Zambezi Gorge. This immersive expedition combines world-class safari experiences, cultural insight, and the awe-inspiring natural beauty that defines southern Africa.
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Great European Journey
June 11 - 22, 2027
Embark on a remarkable 12-day Great European Journey, tracing the heart of the continent from Amsterdam to Switzerland aboard the Amadeus Queen, a deluxe, exclusively chartered riverboat. Cruise through storied waterways lined with medieval castles and vineyard-covered hills, visiting four UNESCO World Heritage sites including Amsterdam’s 17th-century Canal Ring, Cologne Cathedral, the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, and Strasbourg’s Grand Île. Explore charming Cochem and its hilltop Reichsburg Castle, stroll the romantic old town of Heidelberg, and glide through the enchanting Lorelei Passage. Conclude your adventure amid Switzerland’s Alpine splendor—cruising Lake Geneva, touring Château de Chillon, and visiting Gruyères for a taste of the country’s celebrated cheese and chocolate traditions.
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Cruise of the Arctic Circle: Sailing to the Far North
August 14 - 25, 2027
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic Circle Cruise, sailing from Reykjavík to the remote landscapes of Greenland, Jan Mayen, and Svalbard. Aboard the deluxe World Voyager, you’ll cross into the Far North under the midnight sun, explore by Zodiac with an expert expedition team, and search for polar bears, walruses, reindeer, and whales in their natural habitats. With breathtaking glaciers, rugged fjords, and fascinating cultural landmarks, this 12-day journey offers an extraordinary blend of adventure, wildlife, and discovery at the edge of the world.
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Village Life: French Alps
Sept 29 - Oct 7, 2027
Experience the charm and culture of the French Alps on this exclusive nine-day Village Life® journey based in the lakeside town of Annecy, often called the “Venice of the Alps.” Settle into the elegant Imperial Palace Hotel and explore a region where medieval towns, alpine panoramas, and centuries-old traditions come together. Cruise the crystal waters of Lake Annecy, visit the fairy-tale Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, and ascend by cable car in Chamonix for breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Sample Savoie wines and regional specialties, meet local artisans in charming mountain villages, and learn about the area’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. With its blend of scenic beauty, historic treasures, and authentic French hospitality, this program offers an unforgettable immersion into the heart of the Alps.
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Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires: Coastal Brazil, Uruguay & Argentina
October 13 - 26, 2027
Experience the vibrant rhythms and coastal beauty of South America on a 14-day Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires journey. Begin with the iconic sights of Rio de Janeiro, from Copacabana Beach to Christ the Redeemer, before embarking on a 9-night cruise aboard the deluxe small ship World Navigator. Sail along Brazil’s sun-drenched coastline to charming Búzios, explore the lush island of Ilhabela de São Sebastião, and visit the culturally rich ports of São Francisco do Sul and Balneário Camboriú, where Brazilian and European influences intertwine. Continue south to Uruguay, discovering the seaside elegance of Punta del Este and the history of Montevideo, before concluding in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, Argentina’s passionate capital of tango, art, and architecture.
Coastal Italy and Dubrovnik: Venice to Rome
November 2 - 10, 2027
Discover the Mediterranean’s timeless allure on a 9-day Coastal Italy and Dubrovnik voyage from Venice to Rome aboard the Star Explorer, an exclusively chartered deluxe small ship. Travel during November’s tranquil season, when crowds fade and the region’s authentic character shines. Explore four UNESCO World Heritage sites—from the walled Old Town of Dubrovnik to Pompeii’s remarkably preserved ruins, the Trulli of Alberobello, and Naples’ historic center. Wander the ancient streets of Ancona, the charming lanes of Bari, and the sun-washed vistas of Taormina overlooking Mount Etna. Enrich your experience with insights from special guest Giuliano Hazan, acclaimed Italian chef and cookbook author, while savoring regional cuisine and onboard luxury.
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Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage
December 1- 10, 2027
Embark on the ultimate adventure to the White Continent with Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage, an extraordinary 10-day expedition aboard the National Geographic Explorer. Journey from Ushuaia through the legendary Drake Passage to the pristine wilderness of Antarctica, where immense glaciers, sculpted icebergs, and thriving colonies of gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap penguins await. Explore by Zodiac, kayak alongside seals and whales, and hike amid dramatic, snow-covered landscapes under the guidance of a team of expert naturalists and National Geographic photographers. Conclude your voyage with the convenience of a two-hour flight from King George Island to Puerto Natales, skipping the return crossing of the Drake.
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