Travel Program
Passport to Discovery
The Caltech Associates Travel Program is designed for the intellectually curious traveler who enjoys unique destinations and five-star amenities. Each experience is enhanced by a Caltech faculty guide whose expertise will illuminate the journey.
We work with premier tour operators to prepare itineraries incorporating the locale's scientific, cultural, and historical highlights. We frequently enjoy exclusive, private access to laboratories, museums, observatories, and other facilities not readily available to the general public. Every detail is arranged so that you may immerse yourself in the adventure.
Many Associates trips are only available to President's Circle members. You can upgrade your membership at any time to enjoy these unique opportunities.
2024
Great American Solar Eclipse
April 5 to 9, 2024
Witness a rare total solar eclipse in the Texas Hill Country with our faculty guide Mike Brown, the Richard and Barbara Rosenberg Professor of Planetary Astronomy, holder of the Terence D. Barr Leadership Chair and director of the Caltech Center for Comparative Planetary Evolution.
We'll begin in vibrant Austin, Texas, with tours of the Austin Central Library and the University of Texas campus, plus a visit to a leading local brewery for a tasting. En route from Austin to San Antonio, we'll stop to explore Natural Bridge Caverns, one of the state's largest underground formations. Next, we'll have lunch at the Buckhorn Saloon, where it is said that "Teddy Roosevelt recruited Rough Riders, and where Pancho Villa planned the Mexican Revolution." Our exploration of the San Antonio area includes visiting the Alamo, a chartered river cruise along the famous San Antonio Riverwalk, and shopping at El Mercado to experience the area's culture and history. Our accommodations near the eclipse viewing site will be at the historic Kendall Inn in Boerne, Texas. The trip's highlight will be witnessing the total eclipse from a private viewing site, followed by a celebratory glass of champagne.
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Galápagos Expedition
August 23 to September 1, 2024
If personally experiencing the place that inspired Charles Darwin is on your list of life travel adventures, then an expedition to the Galápagos Islands is authentic wish fulfillment. Leading you on this adventure will be our faculty guide and Galápagos expert Rob Phillips, the Fred and Nancy Morris Professor of Biophysics, Biology, and Physics.
Where else on Earth can you get this close to wildlife? Swim with penguins, marine iguanas, and playful sea lions—these are just a few wild experiences you will never forget. Our itinerary ensures that you will encounter a variety of iconic species that make this region unique as you explore the archipelago and its immense marine reserve. There's something for everyone and every activity level, from casual shoreline walks to more energetic hikes, from Zodiac cruises to excursions on a glass-bottom boat. Explore the islands from our floating basecamp, the National Geographic Endeavour II, equipped with snorkel gear for every guest, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks. With lavishly windowed public spaces and cabins, the National Geographic Endeavour II provides panoramic archipelago views and seamless access to the natural world. Onboard and onshore, we've designed a Galápagos expedition ideal for guests of all ages and activity levels. Every day will deliver unforgettable adventures!
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Napa & Sonoma
November 13 to 17, 2024
Join Nobel laureate and Caltech Professor Emeritus David Baltimore, the Judge Shirley Hufstedler Professor of Biology, Alice Huang, senior faculty associate in biology and biological engineering, and gourmet chef Tom Mannion, senior director of campus activities and engagement, for an unforgettable epicurean adventure that will delight the senses.
California's legendary Wine Country is renowned as a source of fine wines recognized around the world and an epicenter of avant-garde cuisine. On our tour of this idyllic region, we'll sample from several of the finest wineries in the area, including historic Inglenook and Far Niente, as well as single-vineyard, single-varietal Nickel & Nickel. We'll enjoy fresh seafood at the world-famous Hog Island Oyster Company, a purveyor of sustainably grown oysters for more than 40 years, and learn about the art and process of cheesemaking during a tour of the aging rooms at Bohemian Creamery. We'll also visit the Culinary Institute of America and the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science at UC Davis and dine at the tables of noteworthy regional restaurants, including BRIX and Dry Creek Kitchen. At the end of each day, we'll relax and recharge in premium accommodations. This trip promises the best of quintessential Napa.
Previous Trips
The Caltech Associates travel program has visited incredible locations around the world to explore the history and future of science and the humanities. Review a selection of our previous trips to gain a better understanding of the experiences we curate for our members.