Saudi Arabia 2026
Experience Saudi Arabia: A Unique Travel-Learn Offering in Partnership with Dartmouth

January 20 to February 1, 2026

Tufts Travel-Learn is delighted to offer this rare opportunity to join Dartmouth College’s journey through Saudi Arabia arguably one the world’s most rapidly emerging travel destinations. Guided by Dartmouth’s Diederick J. Vandewalle, explore the Kingdom’s remarkable transformation and deep historical roots. From Jeddah’s coral-built Old City to the mountain villages of Abha, the Nabataean tombs of Mada’in Saleh, and the modern skyline of Riyadh, this immersive program reveals a nation bridging ancient tradition and bold modernization. Meet local experts, experience warm Saudi hospitality, and gain new perspectives on a country long closed to most travelers.

Learn more here!
View of Mount Etna through ruins

Our 2025 & 2026 Travel-Learn trips are now available to view online!  We will post additional trip details as we receive them from our tour operators.

Travel with fellow curious Tufts alumni, parents, and friends, to diverse destinations in an enriching and immersive way with the Travel-Learn program. On most trips, you'll also enjoy the benefit of traveling with a Tufts faculty member.

If you have any questions, please call us at 617-627-5323. You can also email us at travel-learn@tufts.edu.

Explore Upcoming Trips

December 2 to December 10, 2025
With Faculty Host Sean Cash
Embrace the joyous Old-World holiday spirit in Germany and France on a seven-night Rhine River cruise! Unpack once on your first-class ship, then explore enchanting, festive markets decked out for the holidays and stroll through charming medieval towns. Personalize your journey with a choice of excursions, from wine tastings to culinary tours, in many ports. No single supplement!
holiday markets
December 6 to December 14, 2025
Embrace Finland’s majestic beauty and Nordic charm on this seven-night, active journey! Explore vibrant Helsinki and indulge in the quintessentially Finnish tradition of a rejuvenating sauna. In northern Lapland, gaze at the awe-inspiring Northern Lights from your glass-domed cabin, enjoy a snowshoe trek by moonlight, and drive across the pristine fjells aboard a dogsled or snowmobile! You’ll also tour the splendid old town of Tallinn, Estonia. Includes first-class hotels and a round-trip flight within Finland.
Tallinn
December 7 to December 14, 2025
With Faculty Host Eulogio Guzmán
Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms, colors and tastes of Havana, Cienfuegos, Viñales and Trinidad. Engage in meaningful exchanges with individual Cubans as you explore all that Cuba's most famous cities have to offer. Stroll 500-year-old cobblestone streets while meeting artists and artisans in Colonial Trinidad de Cuba and learn the history and evolution of the sugar industry in the Valley of the Sugar Mills. Cruise along Havana’s iconic Malecon in a classic convertible, explore Cienfuegos’ renowned main square, and visit a tobacco farmer who will take you through the process of growing tobacco and turning it into Cuba's famous cigars.
cuba street
January 13 to January 23, 2026
Explore the storied Ganges River on a 7-night cruise aboard the deluxe Ganges Voyager. Cruising round-trip from Kolkata, anchor at small ports where you can experience village life, meet local people and learn about art, culture and religion. Tour holy buildings and pilgrimage sites for Hindus, Muslims and Christians. Stroll through bazaars, observe artisans and take in beautiful river views along the way.
Spice Market
January 20 to February 1, 2026
Saudi Arabia: From Ancient Trade Routes to Contemporary Society
Tufts Travel-Learn is pleased to share a special opportunity to join Dartmouth College’s journey to Saudi Arabia. Join Diederick J. Vandewalle, Assistant Professor in the Department of Government at Dartmouth College, on a remarkable journey through Saudi Arabia arguably one the world’s most rapidly emerging travel destinations. Our carefully curated program sets out to explore the significant changes taking place in Saudi Arabia while learning more about its ancient history.
Saudi Arabia 2026
January 22 to January 31, 2026
With Faculty Host John Cerone
Venturing to Antarctica is an expedition like no other–a chance to explore wonderlands of sculpted snow and ice where whales swim, penguins flock and albatross soar. It’s the true journey of a lifetime. Travel with our diverse team of experts aboard the National Geographic Explorer, the definitive expedition ship. Venture into channels and coves framed by towering peaks. Watch for whales off the bow; Zodiac cruise around enormous icebergs; hike and kayak.
2026 Antarctica
February 9 to February 23, 2026
Accompanied by an expert Egyptian guide, this singular 15-day small group journey reveals antiquity’s treasures. Cairo’s highlights include the Grand Egyptian Museum. Experience Giza’s astounding pyramids. Embarking on a fascinating three-night Lake Nasser cruise from Abu Simbel to Aswan, visit ancient Nubia’s outstanding temples and Aswan’s massive dam. A classic four-night Nile voyage from Aswan to Luxor follows, with a traditional felucca sail and exploration of Luxor’s awe-inspiring temples, before returning to Cairo touring Memphis and Sakkara. Discover fabled Petra, ancient Jerash, and Amman with an optional 5-day/4-night post-tour Jordan extension.
2026 Egypt & the Eternal Nile
March 2 to March 16, 2026
With Faculty Host Monica Toft
Discover the natural beauty, fascinating culture and spirited welcome of Cambodia and Vietnam on this 15-day adventure as you cruise the storied Mekong River. Explore the beautiful ruins of Angkor Wat, marvel at vibrant cities and observe unique wildlife species. Along the way, experience river life with the locals and gain an insider’s look at the bustling life and beautiful riverscapes of these two amazing countries!
Cambodia, Vietnam & the Mekong River
March 17 to April 1, 2026
Machu Picchu to the Galapagos
With Faculty Host Michael Romero
Machu Picchu’s enigmatic ruins and the fascinating Galapagos Islands rank among South America’s greatest treasures, and small group touring is the ideal way to experience both. This singular 16-day adventure begins with Lima’s highlights. Traverse the magnificent Sacred Valley, then absorb Machu Picchu’s mystery on two tours. Encounter the history and beauty of Quito – a UNESCO site. Spending four nights on beautiful Santa Cruz Island, cruise by private yacht with a naturalist guide to observe Galapagos islands’ unique wildlife. Discover the Amazon with an exceptional 4-day/4-night pre-tour option.
2026 Machu Picchu to the Galapagos
April 8 to April 16, 2026
Discover Apulia, Italy’s rustic, sun-kissed southern region. From your base of Polignano a Mare, tour ancient villages, cerulean seaports and storied landmarks. Savor Mediterranean meals amid olive groves and family vineyards. From Locorotondo to Alberobello, Ostuni to Trani, you’ll relish Apulia’s charms, landmarks and heart-warming traditions. This small-group journey features a first-class hotel and an extensive meal plan with wine at dinner. No single supplement!
2026 Apulia: Undiscovered Italy
Looking Ahead, and Looking Out for You

This schedule reflects current travel projections and is subject to change as we and our tour operator partners monitor the latest travel advisories. The decision to travel is a personal one. Please consider your own comfort level and if you will enjoy yourself while traveling. Our tour operators can guide you through the evolving health and safety protocol of each destination. 

Questions about Travel-Learn?
Travel-Learn Office