Frequently Asked Questions
Travel is one of those things that naturally gives rise to queries, concerns and doubts, so we’re here to put your mind at ease.
How many people can join a tour?
We keep our group sizes low so you have the freedom to move around and get involved with your surroundings, as well as more personal attention from our local guides. This intimate size ensures that your group will not crowd your experience. You can expect up to 15 travelers on a trip but the average is 10. Check individual trip pages for maximum group sizes.
What clothing should I pack for one of your adventures?
We always recommend packing as light as possible however the specific requirements for your tour will vary widely depending on where and when you are traveling. Our ‘Trip Details’ document includes a suggested packing list and these can be downloaded from each individual trip summary page. The checklist is tour specific and based upon the experience of our ground staff.
Can you help arrange my travel visas?
Requirements for travel visas vary widely depending on your nationality and your destination. Although we might be unable to arrange visas on your behalf in some situations, we will provide you with the information and support needed for you determine if visas are required and the contact details of some visa processing agents who can help you.
What vaccinations are recommended for this adventure?
It’s important that you receive the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information for the region you will be visiting. Our agents can provide you with background information related to travel health issues.
Do your tours include international airfare?
Travelers arrive from all over the world to begin our tours and it is not always possible to include international airfare in our prices. In case airfare is not included, we would be happy to help you arrange flights. Just ask for an air quote when making your booking.
What are the age restrictions on your tours?
To travel independently you must be at least 18 years of age. There are no upper age limits for most of our tours. Also, travellers with pre-existing medical conditions are required to complete a medical questionnaire. Our Family Adventures are open to families with children aged between 6 and 17 years of age. Our standard (non-family) adventures are open to children aged 12 years or older when accompanied by a parent (max. two children per adult). The two-children-per-adult restriction does not apply to our Family adventures.
I'm a single traveller, will I be charged a single supplement?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if you are traveling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another traveler of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement or rarely a mandatory single supplement.
An optional service may be available to accommodate you in your own room. This service allows solo travelers to request their own private room while on tour. The cost and the details vary by trip, so please refer to each trip summary page for details.
Can you provide me with a list of the hotels we will be staying at?
Starting and ending hotels are listed on your travel voucher and in the Trip Details document. We use a variety of hotels en-route and so a complete list of hotels won’t be provided until day 1 of your tour. If your family requires contact information, or in case of emergency, please have them phone us. If our office is closed please refer to the emergency phone number that is found on the Trip Details document, this number can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Can I join a tour late or leave it early?
It’s extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary please consult with our agents before you book your adventure.
Are airport transfers included?
Most of our adventures do not include airport transfers and so we recommend you arrange a taxi on arrival (this is the most economical and efficient way of getting you to your hotel). If you would prefer a pre-arranged transfer these are usually available at an additional cost – please contact us for more information. Some of our adventures include an arrival transfer — departure transfers can be locally arranged at additional cost from the finishing point hotel.
What type of ground transportation is used on your tours?
Trip specific information on transportation can be found on the trip summary page however in most cases we use public transportation. We’ve found that how you get there significantly influences the tone of your journey and public transportation allows face-to-face interaction with the local people. Some of our adventures use private transportation.
What is the most appropriate type of luggage to bring?
We strongly recommend bringing a backpack or duffel bag, as suitcases can be cumbersome and difficult to store in buses, under seats, etc.. Keep in mind that you will normally have to carry your own luggage on and off buses and trains and up and down hotel staircases. Suitcases with wheels may not work well on dirt or cobblestone roads.
Can I book extra nights of hotel accommodation before or after my tour?
Yes, in most cases we can arrange additional accommodation at our starting or ending hotels. Please contact one of our agents for price information. If we are unable to provide you with the extra nights we will give you the name of a hotel you can contact directly. Please also note that extra accommodations must be booked outside of 30 days of departure.