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Amazing worldwide science-inspired tours, cruises and expeditions for curious minds.

With experts on board and in the company of fellow travellers who enjoy the discovery of science.

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Cruise

Featured: Arctic expedition cruise with Richard Dawkins, Svalbard, Norway

Experience the realm of the polar bear and midnight sun, Richard Dawkins and other experts on board a new state-of-the-art polar marine expedition vessel.

22 June 2025

12 days

Cruise

Featured: Total solar eclipse 2026: Iceland to Greenland polar cruise

Experience an awe-inspiring total solar eclipse in 2026, aboard a boutique polar expedition vessel while exploring the Scoresby Sund in Greenland, the longest fjord system in the world.

7 August 2026

13 days

Short Break

Featured: Total solar eclipse 2026: North-central Spain

Immerse yourself in the 2026 total solar eclipse and the Perseid meteor shower on a short break in the medieval city of Burgos. 

10 August 2026

5 days

Tour

Astronomy and volcanoes in the Canary Islands: Spain

Visit an array of telescopes, take part in expert-led stargazing and explore the volcanic landscapes at multiple sites across the islands of Tenerife and La Palma.

28 November 2024

7 days

Tour

The great monarch butterfly migration: Mexico

Experience one of the world's most astounding wildlife events that occurs each year in the forested Central Highlands of Mexico, the monarch butterfly migration, featuring the most delicate of creatures.

14 January 2025

6 days

Cruise

Alfred Wallace’s expedition: Cruise Indonesia exploring nature and evolution - 2 places remaining

Explore islands, rainforests and the rare species of the Malay Archipelago on a traditional yet luxurious boat, in the company of nature and history experts.

22 January 2025

13 days

Tour

Yellowstone wolf & wildlife winter safari: US

Discover Yellowstone and the Tetons on a wonderful winter wildlife safari in search of the elusive icons of the wilderness: wolf, bison and elk.

8 February 2025

7 days

Tour

Wildlife and conservation of Sri Lanka

Embark on an extraordinary expedition in search of leopards, elephants, sloth bears and pangolins as you journey through Sri Lanka's stunning landscapes. 

17 March 2025

12 days

Tour

Science of astronomy and ice: Sweden

Join a unique expedition to the remote wilderness region of northern Sweden, to unearth the science of astronomy and ice, while staying at the world's largest hotel made of ice.  

22 March 2025

4 days

Tour

Megalithic Malta: Temples, architecture and archaeology

Discover 7000 years of history including exceptional archaeological sites, mysterious temples, beautiful coastlines, fishing villages and architecture. 

24 March 2025

6 days

Tour

The world capital of astronomy: Chile - 3 places remaining

Visit world-leading observatories, gain hands-on experiences and stargaze at several sites with exceptionally clear skies. With astronomer Martin Griffiths.

27 March 2025

13 days

Tour

Tasmania's flora, fauna and geology: Australia

An immersive expedition around Tasmania offering an up close with a diverse range of species on land, in the skies and at sea. Expect to see everything from Tasmanian devils, platypus, little penguins and the eastern quoll along with numerous birds and endemic species.

1 April 2025

12 days

Tour

The science of the Renaissance: Italy

Uncover the scientific wonders of Renaissance cities Florence, Pisa and Bologna, guided through the era's great discoveries and minds by our experts.

7 April 2025

6 days

Short Break

Conservation and rewilding in the Côa valley: Portugal

Explore Portugal's Greater Côa valley, an area rich in biodiversity. Visit and learn about Rewilding Portugal's work which is aiming to build a nature and culture-based economy to create communal support for a wilder environment. 

11 April 2025

4 days

Tour

Retracing Charles Darwin’s travels across North Wales

Immerse yourself in the life of Charles Darwin, seeing the areas of Wales he visited before embarking on his famous journey to the Galapagos Islands. Discover the fascinating geology of Wales on a small group tour with a Darwin expert.

5 May and 1 September 2025

6 days

Tour

CERN and Mont Blanc: Dark and Frozen Matter: Switzerland and France

Visit the particle-smashing Large Hadron Collider near Geneva and delve into physics and this lakeside city's history before exploring glaciers in the Alps.

5 May and 7 October 2025

6 days

Tour

Whale watching and marine ecosystems in the Azores Islands: Portugal

Explore the delights of this mid-Atlantic archipelago with marine biologists, study whales and dolphins, and visit basalt vineyards and volcanic lagoons.

13 May 2025

7 days

Tour

The history of science in Copenhagen: Denmark

Discover Copenhagen's rich science heritage, including Niels Bohr, Tycho Brahe and Ole Rømer and delve into Denmark’s Viking past.

14 May 2025

6 days

Tour

Human origins: Neolithic and Bronze age Turkey

Journey back to the dawn of civilisation at sites in Turkey including Çatalhöyük, the first known city, Göbekli Tepe temple and the underground city at Kaymakli.

24 May 2025

11 days

Weekender

The science of the Jurassic Coast: Dorset and Devon, England

Unearth the science of one of England’s most stunning geological coastlines, the Jurassic Coast. Explore it by land and sea, while accompanying experts offer talks and insights on its evolution through time.

May 2025

3 days

Tour

Neanderthal origins and ancient caves with Dr Rebecca Wragg Sykes: Southern France

Journey back in time to key Neanderthal sites in southern France and see some of the oldest stone tools, art objects and cave paintings left by archaic humans.

7 June 2025

10 days

Tour

Land of fire and ice: Iceland

Marvel at volcanoes, erupting geysers, glaciers and waterfalls on a trip of geological adventure, with a chance to see the Aurora Borealis.

9 June and 18 October 2025

8 days

Tour

The Rockies and the Badlands: Geology and dinosaurs in Canada

Delve into the wildly contrasting landscapes of southern Alberta, from the Rocky Mountains in the west to the Badlands in the east.

16 June 2025

7 days

Tour

Ancient caves, human origins: Northern Spain

Step into the past to see how our ancestors lived, tour a cave by torchlight and see ancient cave art, plus enjoy wines, expert talks and picturesque towns. 

17 June and 26 August 2025

7 days

Weekender

Mysteries of the universe: Cheshire, England

Discover the riddles of the cosmos and hear from leading scientists who are deepening our understanding of the universe and everything in it.

27 June 2025

3 days

Tour

The science of the waterways: England and Wales

Explore the science of the waterways of England and Wales while visiting six of the seven wonders of the UK's waterways.

28 June 2025

7 days

Short Break

The Science of champagne: Northeastern France

Explore the world reknowned champagne houses of northeastern France, including Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot accompanied by a champagne expert.

June 2025

5 days

Cruise

Marine conservation cruise exploring Darwin’s Galapagos

Tour the Galapagos Islands by boat as Charles Darwin did, taking an exclusive yacht to look for famous, long-lived giant tortoises and marine iguanas.

14 and 28 July 2025

8 days

Short Break

Human origins in prehistoric south-west England

A walking tour to immerse yourself in Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age Wiltshire and Dorset, including Cerne Abbas, Avebury and Stonehenge.

14 July 2025

5 days

Tour

The birth of modern medicine: Paris, France

Discover the foundations of the modern science of medicine in Paris, where the ‘Paris School’ of hygiene and hospital teaching flourished.

20 July 2025

5 days

Tour

The science of primary rainforests and wetlands: Malaysian Borneo

Explore Malaysia’s primary rainforests and wetlands in the footsteps of Alfred Wallace. Teeming with rare and endangered species. Expect to see orangutans, sun bears, civet cats, langurs, gibbons, proboscis monkeys, rhinoceros hornbills and many more. 

11 August 2025

10 days

Tour

In the footsteps of Alexander von Humboldt: Ecuador

Explore Ecuador's stunning natural wonders, including the Avenue of Volcanoes and Cloud Forest, and follow in the footsteps of ecologist Alexander von Humboldt. 

21 July 2025

8 days

Expedition

The science of the Amazon expedition cruise: Brazil

Join an exceptional journey exploring Brazil’s most celebrated ecological region, the Amazon, on an expedition to better understand what make it so incredible.

19 August 2025

9 days

Weekender

The science of rewilding: Coombeshead, Devon, England

Immerse yourself in nature deep in the heart of Devon and discover how wildlife is returning to the British countryside.

August 2025

3 days

Tour

Archaeology exploration across the Caucasus: Georgia and Armenia

Embark on an unforgettable archaeology tour of Georgia and Armenia, where ancient ruins, historic monasteries, and rich cultural heritage await exploration amidst breathtaking landscapes.

August 2025

11 days

Tour

Caves, geology and gentle walking: Croatia and Slovenia

Join a gentle walking tour across Slovenia, where caves, historic monasteries, and rich cultural heritage await exploration amidst beautiful landscapes.

August 2025

8 days

Expedition

Dinosaur hunting in the Gobi desert: Mongolia

Join a unique expedition to seek dinosaur remains in the beautiful wilderness of the Gobi desert with experts from the Mongolian Institute for Palaeontology.

August 2025

15 days

Short Break

The science history of Scotland: The Enlightenment and beyond

Discover Edinburgh and Glasgow's most famous scientific thinkers, visit key sites from the Enlightenment and enjoy seminars, walks and museums.

4 September 2025

5 days

Tour

The geology of the Pyrenees: Spain

Journey through the beautiful landscapes and amazing geology of the central Spanish Pyrenees whilst sampling the best in local culture and cuisine.

14 September 2025

7 days

Tour

Renaissance astronomy in Kepler's Prague: Czech Republic

Discover the secrets of Renaissance period astronomers Kepler and Brahe in Prague, the stunning city of a hundred spires, and stargaze at the Stefanik Observatory.

14 September 2025

6 days

Tour

Conservation and rewilding in the Central Apennines: Italy

Journey into Italy’s Central Apennines region and discover a fascinating introduction into the concept and practicalities of rewilding.

September 2025

6 days

Tour

Mycenae and Peloponnese archaeology: Greece

A unique tour of key Mycenaean sites including a "behind the ropes" experience learning how to explore and excavate with archaeologists. 

29 September 2025

8 days

Tour

The archaeological wonders of Jordan

Explore archaeological sites from many different periods including the amazing Petra. Plus geology in Wadi Rum and float in the Dead Sea.

29 September 2025

8 days

Cruise

The science of whisky: Scottish Hebrides Cruise

A whisky lover’s dream island-hopping cruise taking in some of Scotland’s most renowned distilleries accompanied by whisky experts.

1 September 2025

8 days

Tour

Machu Picchu and the science of the Inca: Peru

Immerse yourself in the Inca civilisation’s science, history and most important archaeological sites, including Machu Picchu. Accompanied by anthropologist and Emmy award-winning director and producer, Peter Getzels and Professor of Anthropology, Dr Jean-Jacques Decoster.

September 2025

10 days

Tour

The science of nature: Japan

Traverse the length of Japan in a journey that encompasses its must-see technology and nature, from the buzzing metropolis of Tokyo to hot springs, volcanic islands and snowy mountains.

September 2025

11 days

Short Break

The science of deep time: England

Explore the concept of deep time with engaging talks and walking seminars as you discover stunning landscapes. 

September 2025

3 days

Expedition

In search of Madagascar’s magical wildlife

Discover Madagascar's stunning lemur-packed forests, stunning geology and colourful flora and fauna.

September 2025

16 days

Tour

Churchill polar bear expedition: Canada

Take a deep dive into the life and natural history of the polar bear in Canada, home to 60 per cent of the world's polar bear population. 

21 October 2025

6 days

Weekender

The art and science of writing science fiction course: Wales

Immerse yourself in the world of science fiction and explore how the experts write whilst learning to craft your own captivating sci-fi tales.

November 2025

3 days

Tour

The science of biodiversity: Costa Rica

Experience the extraordinary biodiversity of Costa Rica on an expedition around several verdant ecosystems.

November 2025

13 days

Tour

Science of the senses, Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains: Morocco

An immersive gastronomic adventure, blending the bustling energy of Marrakech's souks with the serene beauty of the Atlas Mountains' landscapes.

1 December 2025

6 days

Short Break

The science history and culture of Vienna: Austria

Gain insight into the mind of Sigmund Freud in the city in which he spent most of his life. Uncover how he explored the subconscious and became known as the founder of psychoanalysis.

8 December 2025

5 days

Tour

Tiger conservation and astronomy safari: India

Immerse yourself in jungle life in the search for the Bengal tiger and spend time exploring the night skies in India's first Dark Sky Park, Pench National Park. 

January 2026

11 days

Tour

Astronomy and radio telescopes in New South Wales: Australia

Discover the celestial wonders of the Southern Hemisphere and visit Australia’s famous telescopes and observatories.

April 2026

8 days

Cruise

Hawaii astronomy and marine cruise: US

Discover the fascinating culture, history and wildlife of Hawaii's islands on our expedition yacht, whilst exploring its land-based observatories and spectacular night skies. 

May 2026

9 days

Tour

Nobel's Stockholm: Celebrating science through space and time: Sweden

Discover the city of Stockholm's past and present, and learn about Alfred Nobel, the prizes named after him, and Sweden’s vast contributions to science. 

June 2026

6 days

Cruise

The science of glaciers and whales: Alaska’s Inside Passage

Set sail and explore Alaska’s Inside Passage. Cruise around remote islands, witness glaciers calving and discover an abundance of wildlife. Learn about the history, glaciology and geology of this stunning region accompanied by award-winning freelance science journalist, Lesley Evans Ogden.

July 2026

9 days

Tour

Geology, conservation and culture: Vietnam

Discover a different side of Vietnam in this wide-ranging tour that covers geology, stunning landscapes, animal conservation, culture and history.

Experience tropical jungles, limestone caves, blissful villages and amazing feats of underground engineering. 

August 2026

13 days

Tour

Volcanology, geothermal valleys and astronomy: North Island, New Zealand

Explore the key geological regions of New Zealands North Island, study significant geological, volcanic on an impressive scale. Visit Rangitoto Island volcano, Waitomo caves, the major geothermal areas and the Tongariro National Park.

November 2026

8

Tour

Glaciology and geology: South Island, New Zealand

Discover the diverse landscapes of New Zealand's South Island. Visiting Milford Sound, the unique Punakaiki geology, Fox and Franz Josef glaciers, fjords and the Southern Alps. 

November 2026

8

Cruise

Total solar eclipse 2027: Nile cruise, Egypt

Experience the longest total solar eclipse of our lifetime in August 2027 and delve into the fascinating connection between astronomy and Egypt's ancient temples on a luxurious Nile cruise.

27 July 2027

10

Tour

Total solar eclipse tours and cruises: 2026, 2027, 2028

Experience a highly immersive tours and cruises from which you can experience the total solar eclipses in 2026, 2027 and 2028. Book our 2026 and 2027 eclipse experiences now. 

12 August 2026, 2 August 2027

Tbc

Cruise

Cruise wild, historic and archaeological Scotland

Discover early human civilisations, wildlife and fascinating history amongst the wild isles of Scotland aboard an expedition ship.

26 May 2026

12

WHY NEW SCIENTIST DISCOVERY TOURS

Great itineraries with a science focus, to appealing destinations, curated by us.

OUR EXPERTS

Drawn from our extensive network of editors, journalists, academics and authors

PEACE OF MIND

We choose our tour-operating partners very carefully ensuring they hold ATOL licenses and/or they have relevant bonding in place to provide financial protection.

GOOD COMPANY

You will be travelling with like-minded guests who enjoy the discovery of science. This leads to better interaction with our tour experts and deep organic conversations with fellow guests.

SOLO TRAVELLERS

All of our tours, cruises, expeditions and weekenders are perfect for solo travellers. If you want your own room, you will need to pay a solo supplement. However, if you are happy to share a room with a fellow guest of the same sex, we will do all we can to match you with another guest so you do not have to pay the solo room supplement.

SUSTAINABILITY

We want to help you discover science through the joy of travel. We want to achieve that in a way that doesn’t harm the environment, people, cultures or wildlife.

Hence, we have set out the following guidelines around impacts, relationships and sustainability for how Discovery Tours operates.

  • We recognise that flying is a luxury that comes at a considerable cost to the planet. As a tour operator we cannot realistically avoid this impact, but we would urge all our customers to think carefully about when and where they fly. To assist in this, we offer alternative travelling arrangements avoiding flying for our tours wherever practical. From 2021, we will be fully separating the cost of travel options from the cost of the tours to give our customers the full freedom to make informed decisions. 
  • Many experts see carbon offsetting as a useful short-term tool for mitigating the effects of our activities on the climate, when employed in conjunction with emissions reductions. If you wish to calculate the carbon impact of your flight and offset emissions, we could recommend the official UN platform for carbon offsetting, which ensures that your money benefits only emissions mitigation projects certified under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
  • We only work with tour operating partners who have clear published sustainable tourism policies and/or are members of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (or similar body) who work with their members to embed sustainable tourism practices.
  • Our tours operate with full respect for local cultures, animal welfare, and the scientific, ecological and cultural significance of the places we visit.
  • We will not undertake any tours or experiences that in the view of the New Scientist editorial team contradict best practice or our values. For an issue where there isn’t clear cut best practice, we will err on the side of caution.

We aim to tread lightly and help our guests appreciate and protect this beautiful world we live in.

CONTACT US

If you have a query, idea or just want to chat, email us at [email protected]