Tour Highlights
Last modified (date) -
29 May 2023
Trip title -
One Week Camping in Iceland
Trip code -
BIYI
Validity -
Validity: 01 Jan 2023 to 31 Dec 2023
Introduction -
Note to self – Greenland is the one with the ice, Iceland is the one with all the green, but you can see why people get the two mixed up. Now you know that, you’ll be able to see why Iceland is high on the list for many adventures. Even searching for pictures from the country turns up with scenes that belong (or should belong) in a Hollywood blockbuster. The cool thing about this 7-day camping trip is you’ll get to see all the beautiful nature first hand, minus the special effects. The hills of Hvolsvollur, Vatnajokull’s frosty glaciers, the bursting Strokkur Geyser and Reykjavik’s party vibes – they’ll all be up close and personal. You better believe this trip has all the good stuff.
Style -
Basix
Themes -
18 to 29s
Transport -
Private minibus with free Wi-Fi,4x4 bus
Physical Rating -
2
Joining point -
#Guesthouse Aurora#Freyjugata 24 #Reykjavik#ICELAND#Phone: +354 8991773
Joining point description -
Guesthouse Aurora is a family-owned property, located in a quiet street, yet right in the centre of Reykjavik. It's a 2-minute walk from the highest building in Iceland, the wonderful church Hallgrímskirkja, and a short walk from the main shopping strip Laugavegur Street. Please note that rooms are small, have shared bathroom facilities, and at times you may be accommodated in a neighbouring building that is also part of the guesthouse.
Joining point instructions -
Keflavík International Airport (airport code KEF) is located about 50 kilometres southwest of the capital. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. Gray Line and Flybus both offer regular coach transfers to the BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik, where you can change to a shuttle that will drop you at your hotel. You are able to purchase single or return tickets in the arrivals hall at the airport. From the BSÍ Bus Terminal it is a 10 minute walk to Aurora Guesthouse. Exit the bus terminal through the main door and turn left. At the roundabout turn right up Njardargata. After about 450m turn left into Freyugata. Aurora Guesthouse will be on your left.
Pre booked arrival transfer from Keflavik Airport (KEF): If you have pre booked an arrival transfer, your transfer driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall, holding a board with the Intrepid Logo or your name. In case of flight cancellations, changes, if you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly on +354 497 8000 or go to the Airport Direct transfer counter where someone will assist you.
Finish point -
#Guesthouse Aurora#Freyjugata 24 #Reykjavik#ICELAND#Phone: +354 8991773
Finish point instructions -
If you are making your own way to Keflavik Airport the guesthouse will be able to help you book an airport shuttle or taxi. Please ask at reception. Alternatively you can use the airport coach transfer buses operated by Flybus and Gray Line. They have frequent departures from the BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik and also offer hotel pick-ups. Tickets are available online or at the bus terminal.
Pre-booked departure transfer to Keflavik Airport (KEF): If you have pre booked a departure transfer, you will be collected from your hotel 3 hours prior to your flight departure time. Please reconfirm your departure transfer with your tour leader. In case of flight cancellations, changes or if you are not to able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly: +354 497 8000.
Important information -
1. Participatory camping means that you are expected to chip in with chores such as cooking, washing dishes, setting up and dismantling camp, etc.
2. A single tent supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a tent on this trip. The single tent supplement excludes Days 1 & 6 (Guesthouses) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
3. In Reykjavik accommodation will be at a centrally located guesthouse, with triple share rooms. Out in the countryside you will be camping near local farmhouses, and all amenities (such as showers) are provided. We will provide the tents and sleeping mats, however you will have to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow.
4. At the start of the trip the leader will suggest for you to participate in a voluntary camping meal kitty system. The kitty is an on-ground payment system overseen by the travellers and the leader, designed to fund food shopping at the start of the trip for meals while camping. The recommended amount is ISK 20,000 (approx EUR 160). Please note that this kitty is voluntary, and if you decide not to take part in it you will have the option to eat at the guesthouses instead, and cater for yourself on days when we are on the road. In the event that the group chooses not to proceed with a tipping kitty, your leader will still be on hand for some self-catering tips! Please be aware that dining at guesthouses and restaurants in Iceland can be relatively expensive.
Group leader -
All Intrepid group trips in Iceland are accompanied by one of our group leaders, who will also be the driver. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
Safety -
#Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your leader will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your Leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.#https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines#VOLCANOES
Katla Volcano has been showing growing activity in recent months. An eruption would most likely be accompanied by a flash flood which would affect the floodplains to the west or east of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Authorities warn that travellers could have as little as 15 minutes to get to safety (higher ground) in the case of an eruption. Text messages will be sent to all mobile devices in the affected area, advising residents and travellers to evacuate or move to safety. Therefore please make sure that your mobile phone is turned on and international roaming is enabled while in the area.#FIRE PRECAUTIONS:
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.#TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD:
Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!#SEAT BELTS:
Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.
Visas -
PASSPORT
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and?most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
VISAS
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa is your responsibility.?We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed.
Entry requirements can change and are different depending on your nationality. Please refer to your government's foreign travel advisories, the consular websites for the countries you’re travelling to and those you may transit through.
Always follow visa advice from official websites; not all visa information found online may be valid.?You can also head to Intrepid’s Entry & Health requirement page to get the latest information on travel documents and visa requirements, plus local government COVID-19 vaccination and quarantine policies: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/visa-health-requirements
ICELAND VISA
Visas for Iceland are not required for passport holders of the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada. All other nationalities should check with the relevant authorities.
ICELAND ENTRY & EXIT REQUIREMENTS
For the latest update of what is required in order to enter Iceland, please check your government's foreign travel advice and also visit the following website: https://visiticeland.com/article/iceland-and-covid19-coronavirus
Why we love it -
#On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. And on top of that all our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.#There's a lot more to Iceland than ice (and Bjork). Ford the fjords, glaciers, volcanoes, black sands and thermal springs of this magical land in the world's far north.#The Eurasian and American tectonic plates may now be pulling apart in Thingvellir National Park, but over a thousand years ago this was the site where Iceland's first parliament came together.#Experience a traditional Icelandic barbeque with your small group in the Thorsmork Valley. Taste delicious hot dogs and pieces of meat cooked over an open fire pit.#Southern Iceland is a world of striking contrasts. Walk past blue-white icebergs at the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and soak up the silence of the surrounding grey sand desert.
Is this trip right for you -
The destinations visited on this trip can be cold throughout the year, especially at the start and end of the season and at night. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions. There may be the rare occasion where your leader has to alter the itinerary and activities due to the weather. In this case an alternative will be offered.
Due to the remote locations we visit, there are a few long drives on this trip. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery and spend some time getting to know the other members of your group.
This trip involves camping, giving you access to more remote destinations at close proximity, and the joy of camping under the night skies. This is a participatory trip – a fancy way of saying you’re not just along for the ride, but you are part of a team! Be prepared to roll up your sleeves and help out with camp activities like food prep and washing up. It’s all about giving your new travel mates a hand, and everyone knows there’s nothing worse than trying to put up a tent on your own! Out in the countryside you will be camping near local farmhouses, and all amenities (such as showers) are provided. We will provide the tents and sleeping mats, however you will have to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow.
That teamwork also extends to our optional food kitty of approximately is ISK 20,000 (EUR 160) for the trip to cover the cost of meals. This means you don’t have to worry about stuff like where to get food, and actually helps keep your costs down. Instead of paying individually as you go, it means we can bulk purchase items and cook our own food! Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to visiting a cafe, but especially in terms of eating out. The kitty is optional and for your convenience, so if you've got specific dietary requirements you can opt out and purchase (and cook) your own food or eat at the local guesthouses, where available.
Health -
GENERAL HEALTH
All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the opinion of our group leader or local guide any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements as they may not easily be obtained while travelling.
COVID-19
The safety and wellbeing of our travellers, leaders, crew, staff, and suppliers continues to remain our highest priority as we travel. You can read more about how we will keep you safe on our trips, including our COVID-19 Health & Safety Guidelines here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safe-travels
VACCINATION POLICY
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 for this trip. However, we continue to strongly recommend that all travellers get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully. For more information, including a detailed FAQ about this policy, please visit https://www.intrepidtravel.com/covid19.
HEALTH SCREENING
If you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to complete a self-screening health form at the group meeting for this trip.
If you are displaying any COVID-19 symptoms or have any health concerns during the trip, we will follow the advice of local health authorities to determine whether medical assistance, isolation or further action is required.
Travellers who test positive while taking part in an Intrepid trip will need to leave the group for a minimum of five days and may only rejoin the group if presenting as asymptomatic – our team will assist them in arranging a place to self-isolate and any onward journey.
It's quite possible that the destination country may have different or more strict protocols than your home country regarding COVID-19. This may include hotel or hospital quarantine or quarantine for the group. Please check your government's travel advice or contact the closest embassies to find out the details. We ask all travellers to continue to monitor their health throughout their travels and report any relevant symptoms to their tour leader.
Food and dietary requirements -
While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in Iceland. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try in Reykjavik. To give you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally meals aren't included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though. In remote areas outside of Reykjavik the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Some guesthouses have kitchen facilities that are free to use if you wish. Stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouse's restaurant. Your leader will be able to advise on the facilities available at the guesthouses used on your trip departure.
MEAL KITTY
At the start of the trip the leader will suggest for you to participate in a voluntary camping meal kitty system. The kitty is an on-ground payment system overseen by the travellers and the leader, designed to fund food shopping at the start of the trip for meals while camping. The recommended amount is ISK 20,000 (approx EUR 160). Please note that this kitty is voluntary, and if you decide not to take part in it you will have the option to eat at the guesthouses instead, and cater for yourself on days when we are on the road. Please be aware though that dining at guesthouses and restaurants in Iceland can be relatively expensive.
Money matters -
CURRENCY
The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona (ISK).
CASH
Please note that credit cards are virtually accepted everywhere throughout Iceland, and you can get by without withdrawing any cash. However if you do need an ATM, they are available in most towns. Please check with your bank about overseas withdrawal fees before you depart. Some banks will allow a cash advance against a major credit card which will incur a service charge of 5% or more. Currency exchange is available at major banks and some hotels. The easiest foreign currencies to exchange are USD and EUR, however please be aware of the security risk of carrying large amounts of cash.
SPENDING MONEY
When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.
BUDGET
Please budget for additional meals and expenses while on your trip. We suggest ISK 42,000 for meals not included on this trip. Our suggestion is based on past traveller feedback but you may choose to spend more or less. Please remember that Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to visiting a cafe, but especially in terms of eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money.
TIPPING
If you're happy with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. You may consider tipping your tour leader/driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline 300ISK-600ISK per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service. Tipping is not a way of life in Iceland for meals, hotels or taxi drivers though.
CONTINGENCY FUNDS
We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.
What to take -
#CAMPING
Out in the countryside you will be camping near local farmhouses, and all amenities (such as showers) are provided. We will provide the tents and sleeping mats, however you will have to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. A single supplement for a private tent can be booked (subject to availability at the time of booking).#CLIMATE
The Icelandic climate is very unpredictable the whole year round thus we recommend to all our guests to bring good sturdy shoes with a good grip for trekking, a warm wind and rainproof jacket and trousers, gloves or mittens, good head wear and sunglasses.
WHITE NIGHTS
The closer you travel to the second half of June, the shorter the nights are in this part of the world. As many of our accommodations may not have suitable curtains to block out light you may want to consider bringing an eye-mask, especially if you are a light sleeper.
THERMAL BATHS
In order for you to be able to experience Iceland's famous thermal baths please don't forget to bring your swimsuit and a spare towel.#WATER BOTTLE
Consider bringing your own water bottle to refill along the way. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Cold tap water is safe and good to drink so you can avoid the purchase of bottled water by refilling from the tap.
Climate and seasonal -
Iceland can be cold throughout the year, especially at the start and end of the summer season, and at night. Rain is possible at any time of year. Please familiarize yourself with what climate to expect and bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions, including base layers, hat, rain coat and anything else that you think may be applicable.
A couple of rules -
Everyone has the right to feel safe when they travel. We don’t tolerate any form of violence (verbal or physical) or sexual harassment, either between customers or involving our leaders, partners or local people. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a customer are strictly forbidden.
Use or possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. If you choose to consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect that you’ll abide by the local laws regarding alcohol consumption.
The sex tourism industry is known to exploit vulnerable people and have negative consequences on communities, including undermining the development of sustainable tourism. For this reason, patronising sex workers will not be tolerated on our trips.
By travelling with us you are agreeing to adhere to these rules. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our Responsible Travel Guidelines.
The decision of the group leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a group leader, or interfere with the well-being or mobility of the group, the group leader may direct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund. We may also elect not to carry you on any future trips booked.
If you feel that someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your tour leader or local guide immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact section of this Essential Trip Information.
For additional Conditions of Carriage regarding COVID-19, see here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/conditions-carriage
Feedback -
After your travels, we want to hear from you! We rely on your feedback. We read it carefully. Feedback helps us understand what we are doing well and what we could be doing better. It allows us to make improvements for future travellers.
http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/
Emergency contact -
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the leader to speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time.
For general contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/
In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the number below:
If you have booked an arrival transfer, and you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find to the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly on the number listed in the joining point instructions in the section above.
Intrepid's Local Operator: +49 8024 4679 540
Responsible travel -
Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip leaders, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel.
Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting:
https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel
http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/rt/responsibletraveller
WHALING
We are big supporters of the protection of endangered species around the world. Although a global ban on commercial whaling came into effect in 1986, approximately 1,000 whales are still being killed every year, as Iceland, Norway and Japan ignore the ban. We strive not to visit places that serve whale on any of our trips, however often this is unavoidable and there is a likelihood that you will come across whale meat on a menu or at a market stand.
TREE PLANTING
Smaratun Hotel Fljotshlid, a beautiful family run operation connected to a farm, are the leaders in responsible tourism and sustainability in Iceland. They produce almost all food locally, practice recycling, and hold seminars to teach other farmers and guesthouses on how to be more environmentally friendly. Since the arrival of the first settlers to Iceland, deforestation has taken place in order to make space for pastures. Overgrazing over the centuries has then led to soil erosion. With this in mind, the owners of Smaratun Hotel Fljotshlid had the idea to start a tree planting project on their land to contribute to lowering their carbon footprint and counteract soil erosion. Our groups have the opportunity to join the effort and head out into the hills surrounding the property to plant trees themselves.
SOLHEIMASANDUR PLANE WRECK
There are many people who climb the plane wreck, however we strongly recommend you not to do so, not only for safety reasons, but more so because of the fact that the wreck is very fragile. The site is in need of preservation so we can make sure it serves as a monument for future generations of visitors.
The Intrepid Foundation -
We created our not-for-profit, the Intrepid Foundation because you – our travellers – told us you wanted to make an even greater impact in the communities you visit.
The Foundation works by teaming up with partners around the world so that together we can deliver greater positive impact at scale. Partners are identified by our local staff who live and work in our destinations. They harness their powerful community connections to determine the issues that matter most and select local partners who can deliver real solutions.
Since 2002, the Intrepid Foundation has raised more than 12.8 million dollars and supported more than 130 communities worldwide. Now, with almost 40 partners all over the world, your donations are helping to restore forests in Kenya, empower women in Honduras and promote elephant welfare in Laos, to name just a few.
By simply being on this trip, Intrepid Travel will make a donation to the Intrepid Foundation on your behalf. If you choose to donate too, 100% of your donations will go directly to our partners on the ground – where they’re needed most. For more information about the Intrepid Foundation, please ask your leader or visit our website: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/
Accommodation notes -
TENTS
In Reykjavik accommodation will be at a centrally located guesthouse, with triple share rooms. Out in the countryside you will be camping near local farmhouses, and all amenities (such as showers) are provided. We will provide the tents and sleeping mats, however you will have to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. A single supplement for a private tent is available for purchase on this trip, subject to availability.
PARTICIPATORY CAMPING
Participatory camping means that you are expected to chip in with chores such as cooking, washing dishes, setting up and dismantling camp, etc.
Transport notes -
On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. Please note that there are some long travel days and some rough stretches on gravelly and windy roads. On some days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time. All our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.
Travel insurance -
Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your leader.
If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.
Travellers who reside within the European Union or Switzerland receive basic international health insurance, so travel insurance is not mandatory under European Union Law. However, as this does not cover situations such as emergency rescues, private health care, or repatriation to their home country, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. European Union or Swiss travellers who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting.
For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below:
https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services
Your fellow travellers -
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.
Itinerary disclaimer -
ITINERARY CHANGES
Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It is important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary seasonally to ensure our travellers have the best experience. Your tour leader will keep you up to date with any such changes once on tour.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your leader know you are interested in the Group Meeting and they can assist.
Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.
Accommodation -
Camping (4 nights),Guesthouse (2 nights)