Choosing a trip
Which style of trip is right for me?
There are three styles of travel:
Basix: simple, comfortable accommodation, local transport and plenty of free time for the independent traveller.
Original: a mix of included activities and free time, meals and food freedom, standard and unique accommodation.
Comfort: more inclusions, more comfortable accommodation and a more relaxed pace.
Are trips physically demanding?
Do you want to lie in a hammock and not move until cocktail hour? Intrepid has a trip for that. Or perhaps you want to power up the side of a mountain at high altitude? To help you figure out which trip is most suitable for you, each of Intrepid's trips includes a Physical Rating that informs you about its level of physical demand – or lack thereof.
Does Intrepid have family trips?
Intrepid offers a wide range of Family Adventures around the globe. The minimum age (for Family trips) varies depending on the destination, and Intrepid has set minimum ages to ensure that the included activities suit each age range. Additionally, you’ll notice that some of the more adventurous destinations have a higher minimum age.
How many people will be on my trip?
Good things come in small packages, and that's why the company keeps its group sizes small. This approach allows for flexibility as the company navigates through various communities without overwhelming the locals. On most of their trips, travellers will be part of an intimate group consisting of 12-16 people, with an average group size of 10 people. For Overland trips, purpose-built vehicles can accommodate up to 24 travellers. The specific group size for each trip is indicated on the trip's overview page on the company's website.
Are there age restrictions on your trips?
The company sets the minimum age for most of their trips at 15, and all children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. However, for Overland Adventures, the minimum age is 18. Families with younger children can participate in Family trips and Short Break Adventures, but it's important to review each trip for its specific minimum age requirement, as this information is available on the trip's overview page on the website. While most trips do not have a maximum age limit, passengers aged 70 and over are required to complete a Self-Assessment Form.
I have a disability - can I join an Intrepid trip?
Intrepid is committed to promoting inclusive travel experiences, ensuring accessibility for travelers of all abilities and disabilities. Travelers are encouraged to evaluate their physical and mental readiness for the chosen itinerary, as many trips may involve tasks like carrying personal luggage and using public transportation.
Intrepid strives to accommodate the needs of disabled travelers by making reasonable adjustments to trip operations, such as arranging ground-floor accommodations or providing written communication in addition to verbal instructions. Many travelers with disabilities have successfully enjoyed our trips by traveling with a friend or companion who can assist with specific requirements. In cases where joining a group trip is not feasible, Intrepid may offer private departures as an alternative option. For further details on any of our itineraries, travelers are encouraged to reach out to the sales team for assistance.
Food, drink, and dietary requirements
I have special dietary requirements – will they be catered for?
The company endeavors to make every effort to accommodate all dietary requirements; however, in remote locations, it may be challenging to guarantee such accommodations. Travelers will be informed if there are places on their itinerary where meeting dietary requirements is difficult. To ensure appropriate arrangements, travelers are encouraged to notify the company of any food requirements or allergies at the time of booking, and this information will be communicated to the trip leader. Additionally, it is advisable for travelers to carry a card with their dietary requirements written in the local language for instance when dining separately from the group.
What will the food be like on my trip?
Food is one of the most exciting parts of travel. There may be some familiar fare but often you’ll be confronted with the new, interesting, and downright weird of the culinary world but Intrepid likes to think of it as an adventure for all the senses. In addition to this, our flexible itineraries often allow you to eat with the group or branch out on your own - this means you can eat to suit any budget or desire.
Before you depart
How safe are my belongings whilst on the trip?
While Intrepid takes various precautions to ensure the safety of travelers' belongings, it's essential to acknowledge that some of the destinations visited may have experienced theft incidents. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that travelers obtain travel insurance for added security. Additionally, using a lockable bag or a money belt can provide extra protection for personal belongings during the journey.
Will refrigeration be available for medicines? eg. Insulin
Availability of refrigeration cannot be guaranteed. As a general rule, many of the city hotels provide access to small fridges; however, outside of this, especially when trekking or in homestay environments, you cannot rely on access to refrigeration. Please be sure to advise if you are traveling with medication that requires refrigeration.
On your trip
What communication facilities will be available?
Communication facilities are always improving globally. Many hotels and public places have Wi-Fi so it’s usually possible to keep in touch with home every couple of days if you so desire. In remote places (think Mali, Serengeti or the Sahara) or on treks or homestays, you will not be able to communicate as readily. Your leader will usually give you the heads up before you leave a place so you can send a quick email or two. Phone cards are easy to get your hands on; just make sure your phone is unlocked before you travel. In many countries, the cheapest way to make a phone call is at an internet cafe.
Will my mobile work?
The company cannot provide a guarantee that travelers' phones will function as expected since many of the destinations are remote and may have limited network coverage. Travelers are advised to contact their phone service provider before departure to inquire about global roaming options and associated costs. It is also recommended to seek advice from the provider regarding network coverage in specific travel destinations. Alternatively, travelers have the option to purchase a local SIM card, typically available at a reasonable cost, provided their phone is unlocked for such use.
