Tours by The Hot Zone

Travel Where the Story Is.

Small-group tours led by war correspondent Chuck Holton — to the places you've watched on the news, and a few you've never heard of.

See Upcoming Tours Meet Chuck and Connie
This isn't a vacation package

It's a chance to walk the ground behind the headlines.

With the people who live there, the families rebuilding after war, and a guide who's been covering these stories for two decades. Whether you're standing under Mount Ararat in Armenia, hiking a cloud forest in Panama, or someday looking out over the walls of Valletta — Hot Zone Tours is built for travelers who want their trip to mean something.

Now Booking

Active Tours

On the Horizon

Two new destinations next year.

Get on the waitlist. You'll hear about dates and pricing before anyone else.

Why Travel With Us

Three things that make a Hot Zone trip different.

Behind the headlines

Chuck has covered conflicts on five continents. On these tours, you don't just see a country — you understand it.

Faith woven through

We travel as Christians. We pray with the people we meet. You don't have to share our faith to come — but you should know it's part of every trip.

Small by design

Group sizes are intentionally small. You'll know everyone's name by day two, and you'll have real time with Chuck and Connie.

Your Hosts

Chuck and Connie Holton.

Chuck is a former Army Ranger and war correspondent who has reported from Iraq, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Israel, and the Caucasus. Connie is the steady hand who keeps everyone fed, fueled, and on time. Together they've introduced hundreds of travelers to the places they love most.

Read their story →
Where We've Been

Eleven years of trips. A handful of stories we'll never forget.