Alaska Discovery
from $5152
Duration: 8 Days
Discover the quiet, majestic calm of the vast wilderness of Alaska, filled with striking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Take an eight-day journey through its untamed heart and travel from Anchorage through Denali National Park on an Alaskan safari, keeping an eye out for grizzlies, caribou and moose along the way. Walk through forests, around mountain ranges and past huge glaciers and drive down the coast to Kenai Fjords. Discover Talkeetna, Seward and Turnagain Arm and enjoy heaps of free time to customise your adventure with opportunities for hikes, kayaking, mountain climbing and scenic flights.
  • Join an Alaskan safari for a unique chance to see moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves in their natural habitat in Denali National Park.
  • Sit back and take in stunning views along the dramatic coastlines of the Turnagain Arm from Talkeetna to Seward – while someone else does the driving, so you can take in the scenery.
  • Experience the quirky small-town side of Alaska in Talkeetna, famous for its big views of Denali and the Alaska Range and enjoy dinner at a local brewpub.
  • Walk around the tongue of Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park and witness the colossal scale of this electric blue natural marvel.
  • Enjoy heaps of free time near Kenai Fjords National Park to hike, kayak, picnic or immerse yourself in the gorgeous natural surroundings with some much-needed R and R.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, the Grand Canyon Conservancy. Donations help them protect Grand Canyon National Park and support trail restoration, conservation of native plants and wildlife and educational programs.
  • Denali National Park - Visitor Centre
  • Denali National Park - Entrance Fee
  • Chugiak - Eklutna Village Historical Park
  • Denali - Tundra Wilderness Tour
  • Talkeetna - Leader-Led walk
  • Talkeetna - Denali Brewpub Pizza & Beer Dinner
  • Seward - Exit Glacier
  • Anchorage - Turnagain Arm
  • Anchorage - Alaska Native Heritage Center
  • Day 1 Location: Anchorage
    Welcome to Alaska! Your adventure in the USA’s largest state (one that’s big on wildlife and epic scenery) begins in Anchorage. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm at your hotel tonight. If you arrive with time to spare, why not stop by the Alaska Native Heritage Center, where you'll have the chance to learn more about Alaska’s Indigenous culture and heritage. Later, you might like to head out for dinner with your group or check out the local bars and the town’s live music scene.
    Day 2 Location: Denali National Park
    This morning, head north along the Parks Highway to Denali National Park. During the drive, keep an eye out for caribou and other wildlife in this amazing, unspoiled environment. On the way, you’ll visit Eklutna Village Historical Park to see the Russian and Native Alaskan burial grounds at the Orthodox church here for some local history and insight. Enjoy a picnic lunch with your group then hop back in the car. When you arrive at the park, head to the visitor centre to plan your next day’s activities, then your evening is free to relax – maybe sit down for dinner with your group and prepare for the days of exploration ahead.
    Day 3 Location: Denali National Park
    It’s an early start today for an incredible scenic bus journey through Denali National Park. You’ll take the Tundra Wilderness route, narrated by a trained driver-naturalist, that will take you to mile 43 of the Park Road. With Denali Mountain towering in the background, wind along the road hugged by mighty pine trees and framed by snow-capped mountains. As you pass the gorgeous scenery, look out for the abundant local wildlife – you might be lucky enough to see moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves (among a long list of other wildlife) on your journey.
    Day 4 Location: Talkeetna
    After breakfast, drive from Denali to Talkeetna and begin your exploration with a leader-led orientation walk around this scenic town, famous for its incredible views of Denali and the Alaska Range. Talkeetna was also the inspiration behind the cult-hit television series Northern Exposure. This afternoon is yours to explore your way – talk to your leader for recommendations for a variety of optional excursions, go for a hike or visit some local shops. Talkeetna is famous as the jumping-off point for mountaineers hoping to summit Denali. It’s also a great place to meet the hardy locals and learn what it’s like to live in small town Alaska. Head to a local brewpub tonight for a pizza dinner (and a beer) with your group.
    Day 5 Location: Seward
    This morning, drive along Turnagain Arm – an All-American Road, famous for its incredible views of Cook Inlet and the surrounding Chugach Mountains. Look out for Dall sheep in the cliffs along the road and beluga whales in the inlet and take some great photos at scenic stops along the way. Stop for a group picnic lunch in a scenic spot and then take in some epic views as you walk around the tongue of Exit Glacier – a glacier in the Kenai Mountains and a gorgeous part of the Kenai Fjords National Park near Seward, where you’ll spend the night.
    Day 6 Location: Seward
    Today is a free day in Seward and trust us, there's plenty to do! If you’d like to get active, maybe go hiking to Mt Marathon, or head out on the turquoise waters of Resurrection Bay during a sea kayaking tour. Maybe you'd like to let someone else do the work? In that case, book a wildlife and glacier cruise of Kenai Fjords National Park.
    Day 7 Location: Anchorage
    This morning you’ll drive back to Anchorage, where you’ll visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Experience one of America’s cultural treasures here and learn about the Dena’ina Athabascan tribe, visit the gallery and support the local native artists with some souvenir shopping at the art, jewellery and apparel shop. After, check in to your hotel and maybe head out for a group farewell dinner to talk about your adventures.
    Day 8 Location: Anchorage
    Your trip ends today and you are free to leave at any time after checkout. If you’d like to stay in Alaska for longer, just speak to your booking agent.
    Dates
    Prices
    Availability
    Departure Date:
    01JUN2024
    Return Date:
    08JUN2024
    6760NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    20JUN2024
    Return Date:
    27JUN2024
    7030NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    29JUN2024
    Return Date:
    06JUL2024
    6700NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    13JUL2024
    Return Date:
    20JUL2024
    6700NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    27JUL2024
    Return Date:
    03AUG2024
    6700NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    10AUG2024
    Return Date:
    17AUG2024
    6440NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    24AUG2024
    Return Date:
    31AUG2024
    6440NZD
    available
    Last modified (date)

    08 Feb 2024

    Trip title

    Alaska Discovery

    Trip code

    SASO

    Validity

    Validity: 01 Jan 2024 to 31 Dec 2024

    Introduction

    Discover the quiet, majestic calm of the vast wilderness of Alaska, filled with striking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Take an eight-day journey through its untamed heart and travel from Anchorage through Denali National Park on an Alaskan safari, keeping an eye out for grizzlies, caribou and moose along the way. Walk through forests, around mountain ranges and past huge glaciers and drive down the coast to Kenai Fjords. Discover Talkeetna, Seward and Turnagain Arm and enjoy heaps of free time to customise your adventure with opportunities for hikes, kayaking, mountain climbing and scenic flights.

    Style

    Original

    Themes

    Explorer

    Transport

    Private Van

    Physical Rating

    2

    Physical preparation

    Many of the North American national parks that we visit have hiking opportunities where walks up to 4 hours can be an option for you. There are often easier options too.

    Joining point

    Springhill Suites by Marriott Anchorage Midtown

    3401 A Street

    Anchorage

    99503

    UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    Phone: +1 9075623247

    Joining point description

    Located near Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, our hotel is right in the center of the hustle and bustle of the city. With downtown just north of the hotel you are not too far away from restaurants and shops. All rooms have a microwave, mini-refrigerator, hairdryer and coffee maker as well as a separate living room and spacious bedroom. All rooms have complimentary Wi-Fi. A hot breakfast buffet is available each morning in the hotel breakfast area. There is also an indoor pool onsite.

    Joining point instructions

    The hotel has a complimentary airport transfer which is on request. Upon arrival call the hotel to advise them of your arrival +1 (907) 562-3247. Alternatively a taxi will cost $10 USD one way (approximately).

    Finish point

    Springhill Suites by Marriott Anchorage Midtown

    3401 A Street

    Anchorage

    99503

    UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    Phone: +1 9075623247

    Finish point description

    Located near Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, our hotel is right in the center of the hustle and bustle of the city. With downtown just north of the hotel you are not too far away from restaurants and shops. All rooms have a microwave, mini-refrigerator, hairdryer and coffee maker as well as a separate living room and spacious bedroom. All rooms have complimentary Wi-Fi. A hot breakfast buffet is available each morning in the hotel breakfast area. There is also an indoor pool onsite.

    Finish point instructions

    The hotel has a complimentary airport transfer which is on request. Upon arrival call the hotel to advise them of your arrival +1 (907) 562-3247. Alternatively a taxi will cost $10 USD one way (approximately).

    Important information

    1. This trip starts with a welcome meeting at 6pm on Day 1 in Anchorage. This trip ends on the morning of Day 8 in Anchorage. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

    Group leader

    All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative 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 group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues 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. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip. NORTH AMERICAN LEADERS Our leaders in the US and Canada are also responsible for driving the van and navigating across the country. The allowable driving times for drivers is strictly controlled in North America. This ensures our drivers are well rested and are not over-tired from too many hours on the roads. It's strictly forbidden for non-qualified rangers to present any information about some National Parks in North America, therefore we adopt a system (as requested by the park rangers) where our leader will encourage travellers to visit the information centres in the National Parks for details about the site.

    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 group leader or local representative 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 group leader or local representative 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 group leader or local representative 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

    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 & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through 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. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:  www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

    Why we love it

    Join an Alaskan safari for a unique chance to see moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves in their natural habitat in Denali National Park.

    Sit back and take in stunning views along the dramatic coastlines of the Turnagain Arm from Talkeetna to Seward – while someone else does the driving, so you can take in the scenery.

    Experience the quirky small-town side of Alaska in Talkeetna, famous for its big views of Denali and the Alaska Range and enjoy dinner at a local brewpub.

    Walk around the tongue of Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park and witness the colossal scale of this electric blue natural marvel.

    Enjoy heaps of free time near Kenai Fjords National Park to hike, kayak, picnic or immerse yourself in the gorgeous natural surroundings with some much-needed R and R.

    By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, the Grand Canyon Conservancy. Donations help them protect Grand Canyon National Park and support trail restoration, conservation of native plants and wildlife and educational programs.

    Is this trip right for you

    This trip includes time spent travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates. While Alaska can experience warm summers, you should still be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at night, and also rain, which can (and does) happen year-round. This trip is designed to offer a balance of included activities and free time for optional excursions. Your leader will have plenty of recommendations for your free time and will be able to assist with booking optional activities with trusted local suppliers.

    Health

    GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. 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 assessment of our group leader or local representative a 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 in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements.  PERSONAL MEDICATION Medical prescriptions written outside of the US and Canada aren't accepted at local pharmacies. We recommend you bring along your personal medications in the necessary quantities for your trip. DEHYDRATION & SUN PROTECTION The most likely medical incidents to occur on our trips are dehydration, over exposure to the sun and twisted ankles from walking on uneven ground. While hiking please ensure you drink enough water to remain hydrated as some hikes don't have refill stations for your water bottles. The sun (especially in desert areas in the West) can be harsh, particularly in the warmer months. Ensure you apply adequate sunscreen and wear a hat. Motion sickness due to winding roads or during boat tours is not uncommon in Alaska. You may wish to consult with your medical professional about bringing motion sickness medication.

    Food and dietary requirements

    While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are 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. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure. Since most food is shipped to Alaska from outside, you may find the cost of groceries as well as restaurant meals expensive.  Our leaders are experienced with giving restaurant recommendations based on a variety of budgets, but you should plan to spend about 30% more on food than you would elsewhere in the USA.

    Money matters

    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. The most convenient way to access money is via ATMs, which are plentiful throughout North America. Check with your bank for information on their international fees. Most optional activities can be paid for with credit card. TIPPING Tipping is part of the culture in North America – while it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of many industries including the tourism industry, in North America. YOUR LEADER You may consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline US$10-20 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 and involvement of your leader on your trip. Tipping is always appreciated. LOCAL GUIDES During your trip you may have a local expert guide for an included activity. As a guideline we suggest $5-$10 per person per local expert as a tip. TIPPING WHILE OUT AND ABOUT Restaurants: We suggest 18% to 22% of your bill. Bars: We suggest US$1 per drink. A charge that isn’t normally listed in North American menus or pricing are the state and federal taxes. Keep this in mind when your bill comes out slightly higher than the original price listed. 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

    All luggage is carried in trailers or inside the vehicle so please don't bring more than one medium sized bag, backpack or suitcase (20kg/44lb maximum) per person. Your suitcase/rucksack may get some rough handling, so make sure it's a tough one. A small daypack with your water bottle and camera may be carried with you inside the vehicle. You should be prepared for cold and wet weather in Alaska, even during the summer. ESSENTIAL:  Reusable water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5 litre capacity. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. Tap water in Alaska is safe to drink and there are many places to fill up along the way, so please save plastic by bringing your own water bottle.  Sun protection - hat, sunscreen, sunglasses  A warm outer layer, a waterproof jacket and waterproof closed-in/closed-toe shoes. Come prepared to dress for cold temperatures, wind and rain.  Quick-drying breathable clothing that you can layer, including base layers and warm socks. Fabrics like wool are ideal. Avoid cotton because it does not dry fast and can make you cold.  Light winter gloves/mittens and a hat  Personal travel documents which may include a passport, visa, driver's license, travel insurance, flight tickets and your Essential Trip Information. Photocopies of these documents stored separately from the originals will be handy. While not valid, a photocopy of your identification makes it much easier to obtain replacements if necessary. RECOMMENDED:  Cell phone, camera with spare batteries, charger, and power/plug adaptor (Types A & B are used in the USA. Voltage is 120V)  Insect repellent (Mosquitos can be a nuisance in Alaska, especially in July)  A sleep mask. The sun does not completely set until after midnight in some parts of Alaska during the summer, and even after it sets it does not get completely dark. You might want to bring an eye mask to block out the light.  Rain pants. These can keep you dry and protect you from wind.  Swimwear  Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, anti-diarrhoeal, antibacterial gel, wet wipes, bandaids/plasters etc. OPTIONAL:  Travel pillow if you like to sleep during long drives  Binoculars to help you spot far-off wildlife.  Ear plugs to guard against a snoring roommate  A good book, a journal or headphones to listen to music with. If you need some further tips for packing, you can always check out our ultimate packing list here:

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

    Climate and seasonal

    WEATHER IN NORTH AMERICA Due to the size and topography of the US and Canada, there's a huge amount of variation in the climate. We recommend you consider both the season and the part of North America you intend to visit, so that you can best pack for your adventure. We recommend you check the weather in your destination 10 days prior to your arrival to help guide your packing choices. WEATHER IN ALASKA Alaska's weather can be highly variable, so it's essential to be prepared for rapid changes in conditions. Alaska is famous for its “midnight sun” during the summer when there can be up to 20 hours of daylight so you may want to bring a sleep mask. Don’t be fooled by the northerly latitude – the sun can be quite strong so bring sun protection. You will almost certainly experience rain during your trip so come prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear. Coastal Areas: Coastal areas, such as Anchorage and Seward, experience a maritime climate with milder temperatures and more precipitation than interior areas. It is not uncommon to experience a wide range of weather conditions from bright sunshine to cold wind and rain on the same day. Summers (June-August) have long daylight hours (16-19 hours) and high temperatures ranging from about 15°C to 21°C (59°F to 70°F) and average lows from 9°C to 13°C (48°F to 55°F). Fall (September-October) has cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. Fall highs average 10°C to 5°C (50°F to 41°F) and lows average 3°C to -3°C (37°F to 26°F). Interior Alaska: Inland areas, like Talkeetna and Denali National Park, have a subarctic climate with warm summers, frigid winters and drier conditions, however they can experience periods of rain during the summer. Mosquitoes can be abundant during summer, so pack insect repellent. Daylight hours are especially long during the summer months in interior Alaska (18-20 hours). In Denali National Park average summer high temperatures are in the 60s to the low 70s Fahrenheit (around 15°C to 24°C) and average low temperatures are 40s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 7°C to 13°C). In the fall, temperatures can drop more than in coastal areas. Average highs in September and October are 28°F to 50°F (-2°C to 10°C) and average lows are 16°F to 38°F (-9°C to 3°C). USA NATIONAL HOLIDAYS The following national holidays are observed in the US, which can affect our itinerary as traffic can be extreme, and shops, restaurants and attractions can be closed: New Year's Day (01 January) Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday of January) Washington's Birthday (third Monday of February) Memorial Day (last Monday of May) Independence Day (4 July) Labor Day (first Monday in September) Columbus Day (second Monday of October) Veterans Day (11 November) Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday of November) Christmas Day (25 December)

    A couple of rules

    We like to think our Intrepid travellers are all connected by a love of adventure and passion for seeing the world in a different way. We've laid down a few non-negotiable rules to ensure everyone feels connected, comfortable and safe on our trips. We ask that you respect your fellow travellers, group leader or local representative, and local people and places we visit in all circumstances. We don't tolerate any forms of violence and expect that you follow the local laws, customs and regulations in any destination we travel to. Any behaviour contrary to the above, including any behaviour that prevents our staff from performing their duty of care or continuing the itinerary as planned, may result in travellers being removed from the trip. If you consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect you to abide by local alcohol laws. To ensure the well-being of everyone on the trip, all decisions made by group leaders or local representatives and ground staff are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. By travelling with us, you agree to comply with these rules and the laws and customs of all countries visited. If something is concerning you during your travels with us, please speak to your group leader or local representative immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in your Essential Trip Information’s Problems and Emergency Contact section. LEGAL DRINKING AGE In the US the legal drinking age is 21. In Canada the legal drinking age is 18 in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec, and 19 in the remaining provinces and territories. Our leaders are not able to help underage customers buy alcohol.

    Feedback

    Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

    Emergency contact

    POLICE AND AMBULANCE In case of an emergency, local authorities can be contacted by calling 911 – this is the toll free phone number for the police, fire department and the ambulance in the USA and Canada. In case of doubt, call the operator on 0. 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 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 or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative 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 numbers below: Intrepid local operator : Available for phone call on +001 435 767 0002

    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 group leaders or local representatives, 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 Love wildlife? Us too. We believe nature should be protected, respected and never exploited for our entertainment.   That’s why we design all of our wildlife trips and experiences to meet the standards set out in our animal welfare guidelines (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/en/animal-welfare), created in collaboration with World Animal Protection. This ensures that the unforgettable animal encounters our travellers rave about are conducted responsibly, with the utmost respect for all creatures.  What does that mean for you? Well, we never ride, feed or handle wild animals for a start. Take a closer look at our animal welfare policy (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/sites/intrepid/files/Intrepid_Travel_Animal_Welfare_Policy.pdf) to learn more about how we champion responsible, cruelty-free experiences on our trips, and see how you can help make a difference when you travel with our animal-friendly travel tips (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/en/how-be-better-traveller-wildlife). 

    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 $14million dollars and supported more than 160 communities worldwide. Now, with over 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. For more information about the Intrepid Foundation, please ask your group leader or local representative or visit our website: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ The Grand Canyon Conservancy is on a mission to protect the Grand Canyon National Park for future generations. With almost 6 million visitors to the park annually, the Grand Canyon Conservancy runs educational programs and immersive experiences that teach people about the park's cultural and environmental significance. Donations support trail restoration and maintenance, conservation and preservation of native vegetation and wildlife, and educational programs. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation: https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/grand-canyon-conservancy

    Accommodation notes

    The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

    Transport notes

    NORTH AMERICA VEHICLES Our large fleet of 15-passenger vans are fully equipped with air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio or CD players. Your luggage is typically transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van. The vans are regularly serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible. While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and leader may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.

    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 group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative 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. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. 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. SOLO TRAVELLERS The beauty of our style of travel is that it caters to travellers who are travelling solo and who want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. On our trips rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you. We also have an optional single supplement available on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will be on a single room basis. On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances it will clearly be stated in our Essential Trip Information prior to booking and travelling.

    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's 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, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. 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 fees 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 group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome 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 group leader or local representative 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.

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