Bucknell's Travel Program for Alumni
Explore the world, experience new cultures and stay connected with fellow Bucknellians.
Bucknell's travel program for alumni offers world-class travel opportunities for members of the Bucknell family, including alumni, parents and friends.
Below, scope out our upcoming destinations and make plans to join us for an unforgettable travel experience.
Upcoming Trips in 2023
Discover the endless beauty, abundant wildlife and native cultures of Southeast Alaska. With skilled naturalists by your side, you'll encounter magnificent peaks and fjords, and ice-blue glaciers of unfathomable proportions – while learning about the traditions of Alaskas indigenous cultures.
Join us on this historical adventure to the Wild West. The highlights are Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Devils Tower National Monument and Badlands National Park. Also, enjoy a trip on an authentic narrow-gauge railroad.
Experience the pure magic that is Scotland by cruising the infamous Loch Ness to Inverness, sampling heavenly spirits refined over centuries and taking in the iconic music that illustrates the tales of this extraordinary land. Wander cobblestoned streets on panoramic city tours, explore fascinating castles, visit delightful shops to browse works crafted by skilled masters, and perhaps even try on a traditional tartan or two.
Head north to experience the humbling proportions and famed beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Journey through inspiring mountain vistas, and revel in the grand landscapes of some of Canada's most remarkable national parks.
Discover the Burgundy and Beaujolais wine regions of Provence at the height of harvest season. Cruise round-trip from historic Lyon, France, along the storied Rhône and Saône rivers. Enjoy a tour of the Beaujolais wine region's Château Montmelas.
Travel to Grand Canyon National Park for awe-inspiring views from the park's rim. Admire the beauty of light striking Antelope Canyon's narrow sandstone walls. Share a peaceful evening with Navajo storytellers, and ponder cultures past and present at a petroglyph site during a river raft ride down Glen Canyon. Continue to Utah where you'll spend enjoyable time at Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks.
Northern Italy's lake district beckons with its shimmering glacial waters, soaring Alpine peaks and bijou towns. Immerse yourself in the distinct bella-figura Italian style that has inspired poets, composers, artists and philosophers for centuries.
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 that inhabits an unspoiled ecosystem and lives in harmony with their human visitors.
Join us as we wander the fabled land of the pharaohs and kings – where colossal pyramids, legendary tombs and towering temples cascade across the terrain. The mighty Nile River welcomes you for an unhurried journey that reveals seemingly limitless vistas of infinite deserts contrasted by metropolitan cities.
Upcoming Trips in 2024
*Brochures with additional details coming soon.
Embark from Ushuaia, Argentina, and cruise through the Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands amid the Antarctic Peninsula as you explore the dramatic landscapes and remarkable wildlife that call this continent home. Trek through penguin rookeries, observe vast flocks of seabirds, learn about Antarctic ice conditions and discover the sites of both past and present scientific expeditions.
Tranquil lagoons and ethereal waterfalls await in the South Pacific on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises' Nautica. Board in Papeete and set out for an island-hopping adventure. French Polynesia strings together a trove of tropical sights and sounds. Snorkel in Papeete, climb aboard a catamaran in Moorea, or take an off-road safari to look for plump pineapples ripening in the fields. Watch for rare birds in Fakarava. See one of the world's tallest waterfalls in Nuku Hiva, and take a glass-bottom boat ride in Rangiroa. See dolphins dip, dive and bob in the blue waters of Bora Bora. Before returning to Papeete, venture off the beaten track in Raiatea. From beaches to boats to bottlenose dolphins — this cruise is a welcome respite from the winter blues.
Feel the thrill of encountering the flora and fauna that famously inspired Darwin and, in his footsteps, generations of nature lovers. Undiscovered by Europeans until the 16th century, the Galapagos Islands hold a central position in modern scientific and evolutionary history. In a place where human presence is relatively minimal, take the opportunity to observe and photograph these remarkable species up close — either sitting quietly to watch blue-footed boobies or snorkeling with inquisitive and playful sea lions.
Experience the thrill of a safari and marvel at incredible wildlife in South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. Delight in the awe-inspiring power and grand cascades of Victoria Falls. Surround yourself with classic luxury and stirring scenery aboard Rovos Rail. Immerse yourself in the easygoing lifestyle of Cape Town, South Africa's oldest city.
Begin your adventure with a few days in Panama City, a city that connects north and south, historic and modern. Then, marvel at the Panama Canal before strolling down the narrow stone walkways of historic Cartagena. Gaze at the white-peaked Sierra Nevada and rest in the sand of the forest-lined beaches of Santa Marta. In Oranjestad, observe the colorful colonial buildings before traveling across the floating bridge in Willemstad. Relax in the quiet, beautiful haven of Port Antonio and become a rum master in George Town or explore the mesmerizing depths of the ocean on a scuba diving excursion.
Enjoy exploring and savoring the charming colonial city of Mérida, which buzzes with dynamic culture, top-notch food and warm hospitality. Marvel at the monumental ancient Mayan cities of Uxmal and Chichén Itzá, and learn about their extraordinary civilizations. Choose a fun Mérida tour that speaks to you, focused on street food, honey bees or a historic mansion. Admire coral-pink flamingos on a cruise through the tranquil Celestún Estuary.
From the moment you arrive in this incredible destination you will be greeted with sheer beauty and a cultural experience like no other. You will quickly realize why Hawaii is known as the “Paradise of the Pacific”. With many exotic beaches, flowers, mountainous landscapes, breathtaking views and magnificent waterfalls, you will be amazed everywhere you travel within this incredible Island State.
Glide past elegant, gabled houses from the Dutch Golden Age on Amsterdam's picturesque canals. Marvel at the glorious springtime display of tulips and other cheerful blooms at Keukenhof Gardens. Delight in the romantic, cozy ambiance of canal-lined Bruges, packed with wonderfully preserved Gothic architecture. Enjoy the relaxed pace of life in the Dutch seaside harbor town of Veere.
Ride the rails between Denver, Colorado, to Moab, Utah, and experience stunning vistas of the American Southwest from the comfort of expansive glass-dome trains aboard the well-appointed Rocky Mountaineer. Relax and take in the riches of natural history with the mighty Colorado River, vast canyons and mesmerizing red sandstone landscapes before you and delicious meals and beverages brought right to your seat.
No other part of Italy embraces you as warmly and feeds you as well as Sicily. We invite you to explore the many layers of the island's history, its delectable cuisine and its engaging culture. Visit Sicily's many marvelous sites, admire its stunning vistas, and relax and rejuvenate in your stately accommodations.
Cruise along the splendid Amalfi Coast where colorful homes cling to rugged hills. Uncover the remarkable history of Pompeii and Herculaneum, plus enjoy a visit to the Naples Archaeological Museum. Witness three of the world's best-preserved Greek temples at Paestum. Delight in sensational cuisine, including the authentic favorite, pizza Napoletana.
Get set for an amazing adventure in Norway, one of the world's most beautiful countries, with first-class stays in cosmopolitan Oslo, enchanting Bergen and far northern Tromsø above the Arctic Circle. Like a little bit of heaven on Earth, Norway's sublime landscapes of lush fjords and snowcapped mountains will take your breath away. Enjoy spectacular scenery on the famed Flåm and Bergen Railways, and cruise through the pristine, glacier-carved Aurlandsfjord. You'll also experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, northern Norway's endlessly golden summer sky. Delve into fascinating facets of Norwegian history and culture, plus snuggle with adorable husky puppies at a dog sledding kennel.
Bask in the beauty of this 10-night cruise through Iceland and Denmark aboard an extraordinary ship, Oceania Cruises' Sirena. This tour is filled with gorgeous green coasts and iconic museums you don't want to miss. Embark in Reykjavik and set sail for Grundarfjordur. Enjoy the ambiance of serene waterfalls and unique views. Take a boat trip around Isafjordur where you can fish along the bay. Surround yourself with Icelandic folk culture in Akureyri. Picturesque Seydisfjordur holds some of Iceland's most iconic scenery to experience and wildlife to spot. Stroll through the streets of Djupivogur where the culture is rich and the nature is breathtaking.
Discover the majestic beauty of Canada on a nostalgic rail journey that brings back the golden age of train travel. Leave the city center behind and glide through amazing scenery featuring rugged lake country, gentle prairie fields, picturesque towns, and the snowy peaks of the magnificent Rockies. In addition to marveling at diverse landscapes, this restful and entertaining journey provides delicious meals to savor and is a wonderful opportunity to experience the vastness of Canada in one unforgettable trip.
The unyielding forces of nature are on full display throughout Alaska's Inside Passage. Mountains erode by the crushing force of massive glaciers, icebergs drift across aquamarine waters, and the life cycles of flora and fauna are compressed into the scant weeks of an arctic summer. During this expedition cruise, navigate narrow channels and waterways with skilled naturalists at your side—ready to encounter Alaska's abundant wildlife, breathtaking peaks and fjords, and ice-blue glaciers of unfathomable proportions.
Immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of the American Southwest and discover the geological wonders of our national parks, including Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon. Millions of years of uplift and erosion have left a spectacular, monumental imprint across America's Southwest plateau. Go where hoodoos, slot canyons, arches, buttes and mesas fill vast horizons with impossible beauty. Learn about the Americans of “red rock country” who shaped our nation's history.
Thrill to the glories of Southeast Asia, a medley of energetic cities, stunning landscapes and ancient ruins. Delight in Bali's tropical environs, vibrant cultural scene and rich Balinese traditions. Stroll through a beautiful floral oasis at Singapore's Gardens by the Bay. Cruise the legendary Chao Phraya River to encounter traditional Thai life.
Come experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the grandeur that is Tanzania, featuring access to a number of important national parks and nature reserves, abundant wildlife, the guidance of an Orbridge Expedition Leader, welcoming locals, and luxurious accommodations. Its true measure will be in the connection you feel, the memories you make, and the space this adventure holds forever in your heart.
Witness majestic scenery carved by ancient glaciers aboard the historic Bernina Express, the highest rail crossing in the Alps. Stroll through beautiful botanic gardens while listening to the melodies of birds on the Borromean Islands. Wind your way over the stunning Maloja Pass, a canvas of pristine lakes and picture-perfect villages. Discover the secrets of northern Italy's cuisine during a cooking lesson.
The incomparable Nile. Magnificent ancient monuments. Endless golden sands. This and more is Egypt — a cradle of civilization essential to our human story and the developments in government, religion and agriculture. With its long past and welcoming people, Egypt beckons travelers to explore the ruins of the past and the wonders of today.
Broaden your understanding of the profound influence of the African diaspora on Cuban life and culture. Connect with local experts, community leaders, musicians and artists during People-to-People experiences. Discover the profound Afro-Cuban roots of Matanzas, Regla and Guanabacoa. Encounter Havana’s vibrant jazz scene and burgeoning street-art movement.
We are proud to present Montreal & Quebec City Christmas Markets, full of wonder, nostalgia and holiday spirit. This travel experience features fantastic hotels, wonderful meals and provides ample time to shop and explore at your own pace. Join us as we experience the holiday season and wander the outdoor markets with handmade wooden toys, ornaments and local crafts. Enjoy the sound of carolers, music and horse-drawn wagons on cobblestones. Embrace delightfully decorated town squares with magical streets and the scent of gingerbread spice filling the air.
The Pasadena Tournament of Roses is a celebration more than a century old — a festival of flowers, music and sports unequaled anywhere else in the world. It's America's New Year's celebration, a greeting to the first day of the year, and a salute to the community spirit and love of pageantry that have thrived in Pasadena for more than 130 years. Unpack once and enjoy a five-night stay in beautiful Orange County in Southern California. The tour features Orange County's most famous sights and beach towns, including a visit the beautiful Mission San Juan Capistrano, one of the original missions built by the Spanish. Later head up Highway 1 for spectacular coastal views and visits to Laguna Beach and Newport Beach. That evening ring in the New Year with a New Year's Eve dinner party that will be filled with music, dancing and Monte Carlo casino-style games. Ring in the New Year with a champagne toast!