5 June 2025
As our ancestors developed more advanced tools and cultural practices, they also developed new ways of explaining concepts to others – culminating in the emergence of complex language
5 June 2025
7 June 2025 - 10 days - Sold out
View our Neanderthals, ancient humans and cave art tour in Southern France departing 20 September 2025.
Step back in time on a journey to the key Neanderthal and Upper Palaeolithic sites of southern France between Bordeaux and Nice with Palaeolithic archaeologist and author Dr Rebecca Wragg Sykes. See some of the oldest traces left by archaic humans: stone tools, art objects, cave paintings and skeletons that have changed the way we think about Neanderthals.
While their fossils were first recognised some 160 years ago, until recently nobody knew whether or not Neanderthals had any culture or complex cognitive abilities. In this tour, Rebecca shows how advances in archaeological methods, especially over the past three decades, have transformed our understanding of these ancient ancestors. Far from confined and unvarying, Neanderthal minds were focused on quality and efficiency, yet also flexible and creative. As stone artisans, carpenters and inventors of the first synthetic material, Neanderthals pioneered new technologies, and they lived not just through ice ages, but in warm woodland worlds too.
Visit renowned archaeological sites and gain a deep understanding into the life and development of the Neanderthals, all while discovering the beautiful medieval towns and stunning countryside of the south of France.
In partnership with Intrepid Travel.
Guest feedback from this tour:
"It was quite wonderful to have Dr. Wragg-Sykes' company on this tour. She is a terrific teacher and I enjoyed her weaving of geology, climate science, archeology, etc. into a fascinating commentary on what we saw."
"I think finding a better tour leader than Sebastian is very hard to find. He was great. The same is to say about Rebecca Wragg Sykes as specialist of Neanderthals."
5 June 2025
20 September 2025 - 9 days for £5,395 per person
Embark on a captivating journey through time as you explore key Neanderthal and Upper Palaeolithic sites of southern France, from Bordeaux to Montpellier. Accompanied by New Scientist’s Kate Douglas who will deepen your knowledge of Neanderthals and early human ancestors.
Journey from Bordeaux across the picturesque south of France traversing through charming medieval towns and breathtaking countryside, culminating in the vibrant city of Montpellier. Delve into the heart of the Vézère valley, renowned for its prehistoric cave systems, stunning depictions of anthropomorphic and zoomorphic art and skeletal remains, many of which have only been unearthed in the past 160 years.
During this fascinating tour, you will discover some of the oldest remnants left by archaic humans: stone tools, art objects, cave paintings and skeletons that have revolutionised our understanding of Neanderthals and our early human ancestors.
You will be accompanied throughout by New Scientist features editor Kate Douglas, who will deliver intriguing and insightful talks throughout the tour titled:
She will also deliver walking seminars on all aspects of Neanderthals from their physiology, hunting practices and home life to diet, clothing, aesthetics and extinction. Additionally, a knowledgeable English-speaking local guide will join you, enriching your experience with their expertise and offering deep insights into the fascinating regions explored.
This tour is perfect for those eager to deeply connect with the culture of our closest relatives, offering invaluable insights into their lives and evolution.
In partnership with Intrepid Travel.
5 June 2025
June 2026 – 6 days
Register for 2026 now at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact you with confirmed tour details including dates and prices when available.
Join this fascinating tour that takes a deep dive into the scientific heritage of Copenhagen, known as the birthplace of quantum physics. Uncover a rich history of scientific developments not only from Niels Bohr, but from a whole host of Danish scientists, including Tycho Brahe and Ole Rømer.
Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital, is known for its blend of historic charm and modern innovation. With its colourful Nyhavn harbor, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks like the Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen offers a unique mix of Scandinavian culture and history.
It was in Copenhagen that astronomer, astrologer, and alchemist Tycho Brahe (14 December 1546 – 24 October 1601) made his unprecedented observations of the night sky, and Niels Bohr (7 October 1885 – 18 November 1962) founded the Institute of Theoretical Physics where the greatest scientific minds of the era – including Einstein, Heisenberg and Schrödinger – pioneered work on atomic structure. Bohr claimed the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1922, before escaping Nazi persecution to Britain, and later joining Oppenheimer’s Manhattan Project in Los Alamos.
This tour offers you a different viewpoint to traditional European city breaks as you travel through the eyes of some of the world’s most recognised scientific thinkers for a new perspective on this European city you know and love.
You will be accompanied throughout by Manjit Kumar who has degrees in both physics and philosophy. Throughout the tour Manjit will offer a series of fascinating talks and walking subjects delving into a variety of science topics that will enrich your visit to this beautiful city.
Visit iconic institutions and landmarks where Bohr formulated his theories on atomic structure and quantum theory (as seen in the Oscar-winning film Oppenheimer). His impact on the modern world is vast and will be explored throughout this tour. Enjoy a day trip to ancient Roskilde – now a centre for sustainable energy research.
This tour is ideal for science enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, and it uncovers the stories and locations that made Copenhagen a global hub of scientific progress.
In partnership with Kirker Holidays.
5 June 2025
7 June 2026 - 5 days
Register at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact you when confirmed details, including dates and prices, are available.
Whet your appetite and indulge in a sparkling escape to the heart of Reims in north-eastern France, designed to delight and inform Champagne enthusiasts. Savour exclusive tours and tastings at prestigious Champagne houses like Taittinger, Bollinger, Brimoncourt, Moët et Chandon and Henri Chauvet. Discover the science behind Champagne production, from the ancient cellars where fermentation and ageing processes occur to the vineyards shaped by terroir and climate.
According to legend, Dom Pérignon, a monk, created the first sparkling wine by accident, and exclaimed: “I am drinking the stars!” The truth is more scientific; uncover the complex chemistry that gives Champagne its signature bubbles, the sensory delight of savouring each sip, and the cultural heritage that makes this beverage truly iconic.
Champagne involves a fascinating blend of chemistry, physics and biology that underpins the creation of this iconic sparkling wine. The unique characteristics of the Champagne region’s soil, climate and geography contribute to the specific flavours and quality of Champagne. Discover how the interaction of proteins, yeast and sugars create the “stars” that so impressed Dom Pérignon, and how different methods of producing sparkling wines have evolved. Meet winemakers and sample a wide range of wines, including smaller producers such as Gosset, Brimoncourt and Henri Chauvet.
Accompanied throughout by drinks expert Jonathan Ray, travel to the heart of the Champagne region to learn more about the secrets behind world-famous marques including Moët & Chandon, Taittinger and Bollinger.
You will be based in the ancient city of Reims, where kings of France were crowned for centuries. We will enjoy a walking tour of the city and a visit to the cathedral, but the focus will be on sampling a wide range of Champagnes and understanding what makes this the world’s most celebrated wine.
In partnership with Kirker Holidays.
5 June 2025
16 April 2026 - 6 days
Register at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact when confirmed details including dates and prices are available.
Encounter the great scientific minds and discoveries of the Renaissance, which helped cement Italy's role at the forefront of scientific endeavour – from Brunelleschi and Botticelli to polymaths like Leonardo da Vinci and Galileo Galilei.
Explore Italy's most beautiful cities of Florence, Pisa and Bologna and look at the wondrous collections, buildings and churches that demonstrate the burgeoning knowledge of the Renaissance period. You will be based in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance and seat of the House of Medici, whose patronage was pivotal to academic and artistic progress.
Accompanied throughout by writer and journalist Juliet Rix, the tour will focus on the astronomical, anatomical, medical and mathematical discoveries, as well as the achievements of Renaissance artists and architects. On the first evening during your visit to the British Institute of Florence, in addition to Juliet, you will be joined by art historian and Florence resident Jeremy Boudreau.
This tour is perfect for art and history enthusiasts, cultural travelers and those seeking an educational and enriching experience. It also appeals to those drawn to the region's iconic architecture, rich heritage, and renowned cuisine.
In partnership with Kirker Holidays.
Guest feedback
"The Museum of Communication in Bologna and the EGO site near Pisa were wonderful. Also, so very privileged to see the frescoes in Brancacci chapel at such close quarters."
"Highlights were the basilica in Bologna, the anatomical theatre. In Florence, the Galileo museum and Maria Novella. Andrew Spira explanation and details were excellent."
5 June 2025
11 April 2026 - 11 days
Register for 2026 now at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact you later this year with confirmed tour details.
Discover the geology and stunning landscapes of Vietnam in this fascinating tour from Hanoi to Hoi An. Experience tropical jungles, limestone caves, blissful villages and amazing feats of underground engineering. Immerse yourself in local culture and sample Vietnamese cuisine, ranging from street food to dining like royalty.
The geology of Vietnam, particularly from Hanoi to Hoi An, presents a striking array of landscapes shaped by millions of years of tectonic activity, erosion, and sedimentation. The journey showcases some of Southeast Asia's most intriguing geological features, from the limestone karsts of the north to the coastal plains and mountain ranges in the central regions.
Unearth Vietnam's rich biodiversity and geological wonders, visit Cuc Phuong National Park's Save Vietnam Center, where conservation efforts protect endangered species like pangolins and civets. Explore the Ninh Binh valley’s unique limestone karsts and the Tam Coc grottoes, cruise through Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by 300 million years of geological processes, including stunning cave formations like Thien Canh Son.
This tour is a perfect introduction to this vibrant country and is suited for those with an interest in geology, wildlife and culture.
In partnership with Intrepid Travel.
5 June 2025
21 April 2026 – 6 days
Register at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact you when confirmed details, including dates and prices, are available.
Explore the islands of Malta and Gozo, both rich in remarkable history. They hide many exceptional archaeological sites, from ancient and mysterious temples believed to be some of the world’s oldest structures to the fortifications of the Knights of St John, which withstood unprecedented bombardment in the second world war.
During this tour, you will visit prehistoric temples that are thought to be the earliest accessible free-standing buildings in the world, as well as medieval settlements and the walled city of Mdina.
Discover three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 7000 years of history, including unexplained carved-stone landscapes and prehistoric death cults, as well as beautiful coastlines, attractive fishing villages and fine Baroque architecture.
Staying at the indulgent five-star Corinthia Palace hotel is a captivating experience that blends luxury, elegance and impeccable service. Nestled in the heart of Malta, this iconic hotel offers a sanctuary of tranquility amid lush gardens and historical architecture.
You will be accompanied by award-winning journalist Juliet Rix, who promises a journey rich with insight and discovery. Juliet, renowned for her captivating storytelling and extensive knowledge, will be on hand throughout the tour to offer engaging talks and walking seminars. Her expertise and passion for the destinations will bring a unique perspective, deepening your understanding of the historical, cultural and social contexts of the places visited.
This is an exceptional opportunity to learn from a distinguished journalist, ensuring that your travel experience will be both intellectually stimulating and profoundly memorable.
In partnership with Kirker Holidays.
5 June 2025
14 July 2025 – 5 days from £1,795 per person
Immerse yourself in the early human periods of the Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age on this gentle walking tour. From complex Iron Age hillforts to ancient stone circles and some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes, discover this quaint region of south-west England. Visit several National Trust, English Heritage and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Stonehenge, Old Sarum, Avebury and Maiden Castle.
South-west England's diverse Neolithic and early Bronze Age archaeology has huge significance in the study of human origins. The first humans to arrive in these lands date back around 900,000 years. From this period, the area's topography underwent huge climactic, societal, political, technological and geological changes. The henges, hillforts and burial sites here, as well as the artefacts discovered by archaeologists, have offered fascinating insights into the lives of the people of prehistoric England.
Each day, you will explore beautiful landscapes as you walk for around 4 hours discovering the region, accompanied by experts who will bring the landscapes to life.
This tour is led by a Blue Badge-accredited guide, Sophie Campbell. The group will also be joined by Emily Wilson, former New Scientist editor-in-chief, for two days to explore Cerne Abbas. In addition, enjoy talks from the directors of the Wiltshire Museum and Salisbury Museum about their archaeology collections.
This tour is suitable for those with an interest in human origins, archaeology, geology and walking.
5 June 2025
10 September 2025 - 12 days for £4,550 per person - Sold out
24 September 2025 - 12 days for £4,550 per person
Embark on a captivating journey through Turkey, a land rich with historical treasures that illuminate the story of human origins. Guided by an expert archaeologist, uncover the mysteries of these ancient landscapes and visit museums that showcase invaluable artifacts, bringing the past to life in a vivid and unforgettable way.
Discover how Neolithic and Bronze Age people in Turkey changed from hunter-gatherers to organised societies with agriculture, ritual and an understanding of the wider world.
Marvel at Istanbul's awe-inspiring architecture and experience the vibrant life of Turkey's capital, Ankara. Delve into sites that have shaped our understanding of early human history. Be enchanted by Cappadocia's geological wonders, including the fascinating underground city of Kaymakli. Explore the enigmatic ruins of Göbekli Tepe and the ancient settlement of Çatalhöyük, and be awestruck by the monumental statues of Mount Nemrut. You will also visit museums that house extensive collections from these remarkable locations.
An archaeology expert will accompany you throughout your trip. In May, this will be Dr Sinan Ünlüsoy and on 10 September it will be Dr Çiler Çilingiroğlu. and on 24 September, Christoph Bachhuber will accompany the tour. They will enrich your travel experience through a series of specialist talks and walking seminars, plus they will also be on hand to answer any queries you have regarding the archaeological regions that you visit along the way.
This tour is perfect for those fascinated by human origins, offering a deep dive into some of the world's most significant archaeological sites and an unparalleled opportunity to explore the cradle of human development.
In partnership with Intrepid Travel.
