Benefactours

World Safari and Volunteer Adventures

Call 1-604-685-0555

  • Home
  • About
    • About Us
    • Why BenefacTours
  • Destinations
    • Design Your Own Tour
    • Private Tours
    • Group Tours
  • Blog
  • Travel Resources
    • BenefacTours FAQ
    • Travel Consulting
    • Your Security
    • Booking Conditions
  • BenefacTours Testimonials
  • Contact

Volcano Treks

March 18, 2015 By Cynthia Holmes

volcano treksAre you interested in volcano treks? Intrigued by the sight of lava flowing or the idea of hiking over a trail where volcanic eruptions in the past have changed the geography of an area? Is it the view from the top or at a distance that gets your spirit adventuring? There are many countries with active volcanoes, where you can hike partially or all the way to the top in order to peak over the rim into a crater. Did you know that to be considered active, a volcano has to have erupted in the last 10,000 years? Below are a handful of sites, known for their volcanoes, to be explored, hiked, viewed or amazed at.

Costa Rica – Arenal Volcano is an active andesitic stratovolcano in north-western Costa Rica in the district of La Fortuna.  The Arenal volcano measures at least 1,633 metres (5,358 ft) with a crater spanning 140 metres (460 ft).

Ecuador – Avenue of the Volcanoes – is a 325 km. long valley between the major Cordillera ranges. Massive and standing alone, the volcanoes provide brooding, snow-covered contrast to the green equatorial lushness. They also provide mountaineers a rare opportunity to achieve very high altitudes without technical difficulty. Volcano climbing offers an exciting, unforgettable challenge.

Iceland – has a high concentration of active volcanoes due to its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Of the 30 volcanic systems, the most active is Grimsvotn. In the past 500 years, Iceland’s volcanoes have erupted a third of the total global lava output.

Nicaragua – Nicaragua has one of the most impressive volcanic chains in Central America. It features more than fifty volcanic cones of which seven are active.

Sumatra, Indonesia – Mt. Sibayak is a small stratovolcano overlooking the town of Berastagi in northern Sumatra. Geothermal activity, in the form of steam vents and hot springs, remains high on and around the volcano.

For more information on these or any tour, contact us.

Filed Under: Blog, Uncategorized, Featured

Cycling Holidays

March 5, 2015 By Cynthia Holmes

cycling holidaysCycle a little or a lot – cycling holidays can be experienced all over the planet.  Here are just a few examples. Other destinations not listed here, that include cycling, are in Nepal, Tibet, France, Switzerland, Namibia, Morocco, South Africa, India, Sri Lanka, China, Vietnam, Iceland and more. Contact us for more ideas on where you can add some cycling.

Cuba 8 days from $1299 CAD ($1040 US)  Cycle through pincushion hills, sample Cuban rum at the distillery, hear Cuban salsa music float through the streets of Havana, walk across one of Cuba’s famed white-sand beaches, gaze out across the crystal-blue Caribbean.

Thailand Hike, Bike and Kayak 12 days from $1520 CAD ($1218 US)  Jump aboard an active tour of Northern Thailand. Visit Bangkok, explore Chiang Mai, take a hilltribe trek and kayak down the historic River Kwai.

Italy 7 days from $1449 CAD ($1161 US) Cycle through Tuscan countryside and stone-walled hill towns, visit quaint Pienza and medieval Montepulciano, learn traditional recipes and eat delicious Tuscan cuisine.

Danube: Vienna to Budapest  8 days from $1050 CAD ($841 US) Ride through the beautiful and peaceful scenery that links these two historic cities. Meander back and forth from the river bank through woodland, farmland, avenues of walnut trees, wide flat landscapes and shady hills.

Spain 8 days from $1549 CAD ($1249 US) – cycle through glorious countryside, learn about Catalan culture and customs, savour tapas and local wines.

Turkey Turquoise Coast – 8 days from $1050 CAD ($841 US) On this active cycling holiday we cover dry single tracks, forest fire track trails and some country roads provide a modest challenge for novices, whilst providing a more relaxing break for the experienced rider.

Burma 14 days from $3849 CAD ($3083 US) Bike around the villages and gardens of Inle Lake, visit the ancient cities of Ava and Amarapura, cycle around the incredible stupas in Bagan, hike through limestone caves at Pindaya, marvel at the pilgrimage site of Mt. Popa.

Contact us for more information on these tours or others around the globe.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized, Featured, Blog

Travel Tips

February 14, 2015 By Cynthia Holmes

 travel tipsHere are some travel tips to consider before you head out on your next adventure.

  •  Carry-on bag restrictions. Here is some clarification.
  • Packing tips – fit a ton of stuff into one small bag.
  • Need help picking a seat on a flight? Check out Seat Guru for the best seats and seat pitch (distance between rows of seats) before you book a flight. The more legroom, the better.
  • Be aware of some common tourist scams. 10 worst tourist scams
  • 17 rules of Airplane etiquette – ie. give both armrests to the person in the middle, etc.
  • Aeroplan Flight Rewards – where can you travel using your points.
  • 50 top cities to visit in your lifetime.  From Bagan to Varanasi, which ones are still on your list?
  • Be sure to find out if you require a visa ahead of time. Some countries allow you to buy your visa upon arrival.  Check your country’s travel reports.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized, Featured, Blog

Explore Asia Tours

February 10, 2015 By Cynthia Holmes

exotic asia toursExotic Asia Tours – experience the multitudes of cultures on this exotic continent.

Bali
Beautiful Bali – Travel to Bali and experience this exotic oasis off the coast of Indonesia. Bali’s Ubud, Mt Batur, Lovina and Bedugul provide the perfect island escape. 9 days from $1015 CAD, on sale now $812 CAD ($652 US). Includes 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, snorkeling, climbing, cycling and other activities, Guesthouse (2 nts), Hotel (6 nts).

Bhutan
Bhutan Adventure – Travel along mystical mountains, visit various dzongs and Buddhist gompas, trek along scenic nature trails, experience the ‘Dragon Kingdom’ with cultural interactions at a local farm, take in stunning Himalayan mountain views. 10 days from $2999 CAD. Includes 2 day trek,  9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners. (Allow USD100-150 for drinks not included), hotels/guesthouses (7 nts), camping (1 nt), farmhouse stay (1 nt), private vehicle, walking, tours and activities.

Burma
Classic Burma Adventure – Explore intriguing Yangon, visit the Shwedagon Pagoda, stroll Mandalay’s temples, float down the Irrawaddy River, experience the ancient ruins of Bagan, relax at Inle Lake. 14 days from $2499 CAD. Includes 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch. (Allow USD250-350 for meals not included), hotels (12 nts), simple guesthouse (1 nt), private bus, public bus, plane, boat, bicycle, walking, tours and activities.

China and Mongolia
Envision ancient times at the Great Wall of China, live like a local in an Inner Mongolian ger, marvel at the Hanging Monastery of Datong, stare down the Terracotta Warriors, learn traditional Chinese painting in Pingyao. 12 days, book by Feb 12, select departures Apr 23 – Jun 12 for 15% off at $1274 CAD ($1022 US). Includes 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. (Allow USD200-260 for meals not included), train, private van, public bus, walking, guide, basic hotels (7 nts), traditional ger (1 nt, multi-share), sleeper train (3 nts).

Philippines
Trek through remote villages, visit World Heritage rice terraces, explore hidden waterfalls and caves, savour Filipino cuisine. 9 days book by Feb 12 for $1104 CAD ($886 US). Select Departures May 01 – Jun 04. Includes 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. (Allow USD150-200 for meals not included), Private bus, public bus, guide, hotels (6 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight bus (1 nt).

Thailand and Laos Adventure
Explore Bangkok’s canals, discover Buddhist temples, float down the mighty Mekong. 14 days, book by Feb 12, for from $1444 CAD ($1159 US). Includes 10 breakfasts, 2 dinners. (Allow USD265-350 for meals not included.), hotels (11 nights), village homestay (1 night), sleeper train (1 night), train, local bus, air-con bus, boat, songthaew, cyclo, plane and activities.

Tibet, China and Nepal
Visit incredible monuments and palaces, explore the bustle of Beijing and hike the Great Wall, ride the rails on the Trans-Tibetan railway, experience monk debates in Sera Monastery, set eyes on Everest Base Camp. 15 days Beijing to Kathmandu, on sale for $2699 CAD ($2166 US) departure April 5. Includes  4 breakfasts. (Allow USD225-325 for meals not included), train, private bus, guide, hotels (11 nts), guesthouse (1 nt, multi-share), sleeper train (2 nts).

Contact us for more details on these or any tours. Currency conversions are current as of 5 Feb, 2015 on Oanda.com.

Filed Under: Uncategorized, Featured, Blog

Island Holidays

December 5, 2014 By Cynthia Holmes

Island AdventuresIsland holidays offer much more than palm trees and crystal blue water. Trek to Malaysia’s highest peak in Borneo, cross a glacier in Iceland, discover why everyone loves lemurs in Madagascar, learn the history of Zanzibar or feel the Caribbean rhythms of Jamaica. All tours include accommodations and some or all meals.

Borneo
Best of Borneo – 14 days from $2599 CAD ($2311 USD) Watch the sunrise from the top of Mt Kinabalu, spot wildlife on a jungle walk, explore the Mulu caves, overnight in a traditional village, meet an orangutan face-to-face. Includes 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners. (Allow USD270-350 for meals not included.), Simple hotels/guesthouses (8 nts), homestay (2 nts), longhouse stay (1 nt), national park lodges/mountain huts (2 nts, multi-share), Private van, boat, walking, public minibus, plane, 4×4 vehicle, activities.

Iceland
Best of Iceland -7 days from $2499 CAD ($2222 USD), Service Level – Standard. Sleep on a sustainable farm in the eastern fjords region, marvel at the largest ice cap in Europe, gape at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon with seals floating on icebergs, photograph black-sand beaches and gushing waterfalls around this island nation. Includes  6 breakfasts, (Allow EUR 250-350 for meals not included.), Standard hotel (5 nights), sustainable farmhouse (1 night). Private minivan/bus, walking, activities.

Indonesia
Best of Java – 9 days Jakarta to Sanu, Save 15% for $1019 CAD ($904 USD) on select departures Feb 17 – May 16. Was $1199 CAD. Explore vibrant Jakarta, take the train through terraced rice fields, visit a Buddhist sanctuary, meet the locals and learn the Javanese way of life. Includes 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch. (Allow USD170-200 for meals not included.) Simple hotels/guesthouses (8 nts), transport and activities.

Jamaica
Jamaica Encompassed – 10 days from $1699 CAD ($1511 USD) on select departures Jan 1 – March 21, Service Level – Standard. Relax on world-class beaches around the island, bargain at the local markets, visit a Rastafarian village, learn to drum and dance with the locals at a Maroon village, experience a different side of this familiar island. Includes 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches. (Please allow USD225-375 for meals not included.), Hotels (9 nts), Private van, walking, and activities.

Madagascar
Highlights of Madagascar – 14 days, from $1999 CAD ($1777 USD) – Service Level – Standard. Search for lemurs and unique wildlife, learn about endemic flora and fauna in world-famous national parks, visit local artisan workshops, lounge on the beautiful beaches, savour dinner with a local family. Includes 1 breakfast, 1 dinner. (Allow USD300 for meals and drinks not included.), Hotels (12 nts), homestay (1 nt, multi-share), Private minibus, plane, walking and activities.

Zanzibar
Essence of Zanzibar – 6 days, from $1100 US, Service Level – Comfort. Stroll through narrow streets of the Old Stone Town, where history appears to have stood still. Delight in stunning sunsets as you relax at a classic Zanzibar beach resort. Included 5 nights hotel/resort, 5 breakfasts, 4 dinners, tours, transport, boat trip.

Contact us for full details using the form at the side.

Filed Under: Uncategorized, Featured, Blog

No Ebola in East Africa

November 22, 2014 By Cynthia Holmes

Tourism in Africa has declined as fear of ebola spreads and people need to know that there is no ebola in East Africa. Below is an update from Kenya Tourism Federation.

Kenya Tourism Federation

21st October 2014

UPDATE:

ACTION TAKEN TO PREVENT EBOLA OUTBREAK FROM REACHING KENYA

Following extensive news coverage in the international media about concerns that the Ebola outbreak in West Africa could spread to other countries in Africa or to places with airports receiving flights from the affected areas, we are advised that the situation is now as follows:

1. The current outbreak of Ebola in West Africa was first reported in March 2014, and currently involves three countries, Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, on the extreme West of the African Continent, thousands of kilometres from Kenya and indeed closer to Madrid, Paris and London than to Nairobi in East Africa on the other side of the continent.

2. Action has been taken by the international community with the involvement of the World Health Organisation (WHO) to assist the governments in the three West African countries affected by the Ebola virus to contain the disease and to prevent the spread of the disease overland to the neighbouring countries in the region. It has been confirmed that Senegal and Nigeria, which recently had cases of Ebola, have now succeeded in controlling the situation and have eradicated the disease. The World Health Organization announced that it will increase efforts to prevent Ebola spreading beyond the three countries most affected by the deadly virus: Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea. Neighbouring countries including Ivory Coast, Guinea Bissau, Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Gambia andMauritania are being prioritised to receive more help in screening, prevention and rapid response to prevent the spread of Ebola into other parts of West Africa.

3. There has never been any case of Ebola in Kenya in the past and since the current outbreak in West Africa there has been no case of Ebola reaching this country.

4. From 19th August Kenya Airways temporarily suspended all its flights between Liberia and Sierra Leone to Nairobi on the advice of Kenya’s Ministry of Health, as a measure to prevent the spread of Ebola from those countries until the outbreak there has been brought under control. The Kenya government also announced other restrictions because of the on-going Ebola outbreak in West Africa and is temporarily suspending entry into Kenya of any passengers who have passed through Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia.

5. Travellers from other countries in West Africa can come to Kenya by air just as they can travel at present on flights from West Africa to Europe, America, the Middle East, Asia,Australia and elsewhere in the world. The international airlines have implemented screening for passengers boarding flights in West Africa and the Kenyan Government and the Ministry of Health, working in close co-operation with the Kenya Airports Authority, have now set up arrangements at the international airport in Nairobi to screen all passengers arriving on flights from West Africa to prevent any infected person from entering the country and, if required, to provide medical care in an isolation unit.

6. It is considered highly unlikely that travellers from the affected countries in West Africa would come to Kenya overland by road as it could entail a journey of more than 2 weeks and would require driving through places like the CentralAfrican Republic, DRC or Southern Sudan where there are serious security issues and disruptions to road travel. Any infected person setting off from West Africa to undertake such a journey by road to Kenya would be very likely to have developed obvious symptoms before arriving at the Kenya border post where screening is now in place to identify and isolate anyone considered to be at risk of carrying the disease so that appropriate medical treatment may be given if required. Travellers from Liberia, Sierra Leone or Guinea are not permitted to cross the border and enter Kenya so the possibility of Ebola spreading overland from the affected countries in West Africa to Kenya is considered extremely unlikely. As mentioned, WHO is taking measures to prevent the disease spreading from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea to neighbouring countries in West Africa and it should be noted that both Senegal and Nigeria have succeeded in eradicating the disease within their borders.

7. According to the medical authorities, the overall risk of a traveller or tourist contracting Ebola on an aircraft or in an airport is very low as it requires direct contact with the bodily fluids or secretions (e.g. blood, saliva, urine, etc.) from an infected person who is already exhibiting symptoms or from the dead body of a person who died from Ebola. Ebola is not an airborne virus like influenza or tuberculosis. It is not spread by infected persons coughing or sneezing into the air and is not present in water or food. Simply washing hands with soap and water can destroy the virus. It should also be noted that infected individuals who have not yet developed symptoms of Ebola cannot transmit the disease to others. It takes time before infected persons develop symptoms of the disease and they become contagious only after the first onset of symptoms. As symptoms worsen, the ability to transmit the virus increases. As a result, patients are usually most likely to infect others at a severe stage of the disease, when they are visibly, and physically, too ill to travel and at that stage they will probably not be physically capable of boarding an aircraft unassisted.

8. The World Health Organization (WHO) is therefore advising against imposing travel bans to and from affected countries. The Director of WHO Global Capacity Alert and Response has stated that because the risk of Ebola transmission on aircraft is so low, WHO does not consider air transport hubs at high risk for further spread of Ebola. The highest Ebola virus level is found in a dead body, according to WHO, so the highest risk of Ebola transmission is in preparing a body for burial. The persons most at risk are those in very close direct contact with infected patients or corpses, such as doctors, nurses, mortuary attendants or family members caring for infected relatives.

9. The WHO has commended Kenya for its efforts in putting in place measures to prevent possible importation and to implement early detection and containment if a case is detected in an arriving traveller.

10. Staying in international hotels in Nairobi and at the coastal beach resorts or going on safari to the wildlife parks in Kenya at the present time is considered to entail no risk of contracting Ebola and there is no reason for visitors to cancel or postpone travel plans to Kenya. We will continue to monitor the news bulletins and daily updates from The World Health Organisation and Kenya’s Ministry of Health to ensure that we are kept informed and can act in the interests of our visitors’ safety, which is always our highest priority.

Lucy Karume                                      Jake Grieves-Cook
Chairman                                              Spokesman
Kenya Tourism Federation            Kenya Tourism Federation

Filed Under: Uncategorized, Blog

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • Next Page »
Have questions or can’t find what you are looking for? We’re happy to help. Ask your question below.

    Your Name (required)

    Your Email (required)

    Subject

    [your-subject]

    Your Message

    Please Enter Code
    captcha  

    Your Tour Guide

    Cynthia Holmes
    Traveller / Owner
    Send an Email
    Tel: 1 (604) 685-0555

    Recent Posts

    • Why Travelers Are Flocking To Africa
    • Lose Yourself At Lewa Conservancy, Kenya
    • Chitwan National Park
    • Visit Alicante Spain
    • Need To Know To Book A Safari
    • Covid 19 Safety Protocols
    • Offset Carbon When Travelling
    • Sitemap
    • Contact
    • Booking Conditions
    • BenefacTours FAQ
    • Privacy Policy

    Copyright © 2026 BenefacTours Inc. 1489 Harold Rd. North Vancouver, BC, V7J 1X2 Canada

    Telephone Local: 1-604-685-0555 Toll Free Canada: 1-877-687-0555 Skype: benefactours

    Hours: Monday – Friday 8 am – 5 pm PST, Saturday 9 am – 4 pm PST