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Frequently asked questions

About Intrepid

Intrepid events

Does Intrepid have events/slide nights that I can attend?
Please refer to Intrepid events for information on our upcoming events.
 

Financial security

Is Intrepid financially secure?
Yes. Intrepid started in 1989 and have been profitable almost every year since 1991. Intrepid have substantial financial reserves that exceed the requirements set down by IATA and Australia's Travel Compensation Fund. This enables us to cope with major downturns in business such as that which occurred following September 11. See the next question for more information on what happens to your money.
 
What happens to my money when I pay for my trip?
When Intrepid receives money from either you or from your travel agent, the funds are deposited into a Client Trust Account. The money stays in this account until the day of departure of your trip. Why? So that in the unlikely event of Intrepid ever going broke, your money is still safe and you would get it back in full. Intrepid's Client Trust Account is independently audited every year in accordance with Australia's Travel Compensation Fund (TCF) standards. The TCF is a legislated body governing the licensing and operation of travel agents in Australia. Failure to meet financial criteria reflecting the financial viability of a travel agent results in revocation of the agent's licence to trade. Intrepid are licensed under these arrangements.
 
Is my travel agent financially secure? 
It is an unfortunate fact that travel agents do go broke from time to time. If you are using a travel agent, it is your responsibility to ensure that the agent is financially sound. This is important as the agent may hold your money before sending it to us for your trip. Should that agency go broke before we have received your money, then it may be lost. Different countries have different levels of legislation, licences, bonds, trust accounts and/or insurance schemes to protect you. These vary greatly from country to country and some countries have no such protection at all. Please research this carefully to make sure the money you are paying is secure. Where there are no protection systems in your country, at least look at how long the business has been trading, ask others about their reputation and seek independent advice on reputable travel agencies.
 

Employment with Intrepid

I am interested in working with Intrepid Travel – where do I find out more?
To find out what it’s like to work at Intrepid, all the exciting perks and what’s available right now, visit our employment pages.
 

The Intrepid Foundation

How can I donate to The Intrepid Foundation?
Please print out a pdf donation form, complete the details requested, and post your donation to The Intrepid Foundation - CAF Community Fund, locked bag 962, North Sydney NSW 2059. Australia.
 
Will all my donation get to the project I have chosen?
Yes, the administration costs of The Intrepid Foundation are being entirely funded by Intrepid Travel. 100% of public donations will reach the nominated program or project. All charities or foundations have administration costs - staff wages, advertising and marketing, accounting & legal fees, bank charges etc. For many charities this accounts for more than 20% of contributions. Intrepid Travel is paying for all the administrative overheads of The Intrepid Foundation. (Please note that the Partners Program beneficiaries may take out some administrative expenses.)
 
Who holds the money I donate and can they be trusted?
The money you donated is deposited into an account managed by CAF Australia and CAF Community Fund. They are registered charities that aim to increase the flow of resources to charities and non-profit organisations. CAF stands for Charities Aid Foundation. CAF was founded in the UK in 1924 and now operates in nine countries around the world. Since 1974 CAF has distributed funds of over $500 million and currently has 1000 Foundations under management for individuals and companies. CAF opened it's Australian office in March 2000. CAF invests funds with Macquarie Private Portfolio Management, a wholly owned subsidiary of Macquarie Bank.
CAF must adhere to the very stringent regulations that are applied to the management of Trusts and Foundations. The Board of the Trustee, CAF Community Fund Ltd, is responsible for making all grants. The Board has an extensive track record in corporate, charity and government sectors. Their annual accounts are audited each year by external auditors. Intrepid Travel chose to work with CAF based on their excellent reputation and ability to meet our requirements - particularly in relation to accountability and transparency.
 
Is the Foundation owned by Intrepid?
No - the Foundation was established by Intrepid, and Intrepid contributes funds into the Foundation, however The Intrepid Foundation is legally independent of Intrepid. In the extremely unlikely event of Intrepid Travel going bankrupt, The Intrepid Foundation will continue due to its independence.
Intrepid Travel established the Foundation at the end of the 2002 Financial Year with a contribution of AU$200,000.
 
Can I get involved with the Foundation in some way?
Of course the first way is to donate to any of the programs or projects offered!
Fund-raising - we welcome any fund-raising initiatives that you may wish to take to support any of The Intrepid Foundation's current beneficiary projects. You may have visited one of these projects while travelling with Intrepid. If suited we may be able to promote your fund-raiser through Intrepid Express, our weekly email newsletter. Intrepid Travel will match the amount that you raise, dollar for dollar. Donations above AUD5000 must be approved prior by The Intrepid Foundation committee.
The Intrepid Foundation has a Committee of Management with 12 committee members. These positions are currently held by a mix of Intrepid staff and Intrepid travellers with relevant experience.
 
Is my donation tax deductible?
If you are an Australian taxpayer, donations to The Intrepid Perpetual Support Fund are tax deductible. Most of the projects listed under the Community Project Fund are not eligible for tax deductibility.
 
Why has Intrepid Travel bothered to do this?
Since Geoff and Darrell started Intrepid way back in '89, they have honoured a commitment to contribute back to the communities where we operate. We supported many different projects some managed by NGOs based in Australia like Community Aid Abroad and Plan; some quite grass-roots projects in the communities we visit. As the company has grown, this support has grown and we have had a huge level of support from our travellers for the projects we endorse. It had come to a point where we recognised that as a travel company, not a charity if we wanted to continue to grow this support we needed it to be managed by experts who could offer clear accountability. So we decided to establish The Intrepid Foundation and approached CAF to manage it. Some people call it corporate social responsibility. We simply believe The Intrepid Foundation will be a better way for our support to be able to grow, together with the public's support, well into the future.
 

Website Problems

What do I do if I am unable to open a link on the Intrepid website?
Oh no! We really want to get you where you need to go. Please tell us what’s broken through our Ask Intrepid page and our resident techno-gurus will fix it as quickly as possible. 
 

About Intrepid Trips

Trip Style

Which style of trip is right for me?
Our three styles of travel – Basix, Original and Comfort – are groovy in different kinds of ways. To find out which one has ‘You’ written all over it, visit our Trip Styles Page. 
 
Are trips physically demanding?
Want to lie in a hammock and not move until cocktail hour? We’ve got a trip for that. Want to power up the side of mountain at high altitude? We’ve got a trip for that. Each of our trips comes with a Physical Rating to let you know how physically demanding it is… or isn’t. 
 

Travelling with Children

Does Intrepid have family trips? 

We sure do, and they're great. Find an adventure for your tribe by clicking here.

Can I take my young children on Intrepid trips?
We welcome children on our trips and have introduced the following guidelines to ensure the best possible experience both for the children and the rest of the group members:
  1. Please see our Intrepid Family and Short Break Adventure itineraries which have many options suitable for younger children.
  2. For the majority of our trips the minimum age for children is 12. A minimum age of 18 applies to many of our Overland Adventures, while a minimum age of 5 applies to our Family trips. Please refer to the "your fellow travellers" section of the relevant Trip Notes to check if any specific age variations apply.
  3. Children 12 - 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult traveller who is responsible for the child's day to day care.
  4. A maximum of 3 children per adult traveller applies on our non-family trips.
  5. If there is a group of 3 consisting of 2 adults with 1 child, it may not be possible to obtain triple rooms. In such cases, one of the adults will share with the child and the other adult will share with another adult passenger in the group. In the case of 2 adults travelling with 2 children, for safety reasons 1 adult must share with 1 child at all times.

 

Group Trip Information

Who are Intrepid travellers?
Intrepid adventures are for travellers with a yearning to get off the beaten track. Whether you're travelling solo, with a group of friends, aged 18 or 70, there is an Intrepid adventure to suit your interests and comfort level. Each Intrepid adventure has a physical and cultural grading to help you decide if the trip is right for you.
 
No special skills are required for most adventures, just a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the world! Even on our camping adventures no previous experience is required, our tents are easy to set up, even for first time campers.
 
How many people will be on my trip? 
Good things come in small packages which is why we keep our group sizes down. This means we’re small enough to remain flexible as we thread our way through communities, without intimidating the locals. On most of our trips you’ll be part of an intimate group of 12-16 people. Our Overland trips are on purpose built vehicles that can carry up to 24 travellers. Group sizes are displayed with each itinerary.
 
Are there age restrictions on your trips?
For the majority of our trips the minimum age is 12. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 18. Our Overland adventures have a minimum age of 18.Younger children are allowed on our Family trips and Short Break Adventures, but check each trip for its minimum age.  
 
Most of our trips don’t have a maximum age limit, but a Self-Assessment form is required for all passengers 70 years and over.
 
Who will be my group leader?
While we can’t tell you who your leader is prior to departure, we can tell you they will be awesome. Our leaders are experts in their regions, some because they’ve been travelling there for years, others because they’re locals and can’t wait to show you their back yard. On longer journeys you may change leaders part way through. And that means double the awesomeness.
 
Can I just do part of the trip?
We’d hate to see you go, but if you do need to arrive late or leave early to a trip, we’ll do our best to accommodate your schedule. If you’re short on time we also have a range of great Short Break Adventures.
 
Can I make any changes to the itinerary of my group trip, either before or during the trip? 
Please make sure you are happy with your group trip itinerary before booking because we are unable to change them for individual travellers. However, if you and a group of friends, colleagues, or even your school would like your own personally designed itinerary, get in contact with our very talented Private Groups; they can tailor an itinerary just for you. 
 
Can I add an extra night on the beginning or end of my group trip, either before or during the trip?
You sure can. Just ask your travel specialist at the time of booking.
 

Single Travellers

I’m travelling alone – is that OK?
A lot of solo travellers love travelling the Intrepid way. You’ll have all the freedom you want with the added security of travelling in a group. Plus, our intimate group sizes is like travelling with a group of like-minded friends, you just haven’t met yet.
 
If I am a single traveller will I be charged a single supplement?
As a single traveller you will usually have the choice of either paying a single supplement or sharing with someone of the same gender. No single supplement is available on our Basix Style adventures.
 

Room Types

Can we book a triple room?
Depending on the trip style you choose, our trips are organised on a twin, triple or multishare basis. As our bookings are made well in advance individual room requests can not be guaranteed.
Can I book a single room?
You can book pre and post accommodation on a single basis however throughout your Intrepid trip, rooming is organised on a twin share basis.
 

Weather (When to travel)

What is the best time of year to travel? What is the weather expected to be like in my chosen destination at the time I want to travel? 
The Intrepid Travel pre-departure information provides guidelines on the best time to travel for major cities in each Intrepid destination. While you're looking at a trip, click on 'Trip Notes', this will take you to a page with detailed information on the trip, responsible travel and the country you are traveling to. The pdf document 'Country Information' has climate guidelines and tips on the best time to go.
 
For more general weather information we suggest you visit http://www.worldweather.org 
 

Food & Drink

I have special dietary requirements – will they be catered for?
If you have special dietary requirements, let us know at time of booking. We will try our hardest to accommodate your requirements, but the nature of the places we travel may mean it’s not possible.
 
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. It’s an adventure for all the senses.
 
Can I drink the water in the countries I visit?
In some destinations it may not be wise to drink the local water. Find country specific information at our fantastic Destination Pages. 
 

Optionals

What are optional activities? Where can I find details on optional activities?
Each trip has a range of optional activities. Dive right in to these new adventures or take time out to explore your own way – the choice is yours. Look at the Trip Notes for your chosen trip for a full list of optional activities.
 
Do I book and pay for optional activities now or during the trip?
Generally you’ll pay for the activities during your trip, so you can decide along the way what you do and don’t want to do. On some occasions the activities will need to be booked prior to departure. Check your Trip Notes and talk to your travel specialist for more information.
 
Sustainable travel
How does Intrepid support sustainable travel and protect the environment?
Wherever we go in the world we travel with respect for the people and the environment. We’re working hard to make our business as responsible and sustainable as possible, from our head office, through to our trips on the ground. Find out more at our Responsible Business pages.
 
Learn how you can travel responsibly with our top Responsible Travel tips. 
 

Booking Information

How to obtain Trip Notes

How do I obtain Trip Notes/itinerary for full details of my trip?
Detailed Trip Notes and itinerary details are available for every trip operated by Intrepid. These notes include a detailed day-by-day itinerary, a list of included and recommended activities, and a lot of essential information to help you decide which trip is best for you. To find these details click on either the 'Itinerary' and 'Trip Notes' links from the menu on the right-hand side of trip pages.

Travel Insurance

Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all Intrepid travellers and should be taken out at the time of booking. At a minimum your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability, with a minimum coverage of US$200,000. We also strongly recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide proof of your travel insurance on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without it. If you obtain travel insurance through us you acknowledge that you are satisfied with the level of insurance we have arranged. To find out more about travel insurance or purchase it through Intrepid, click here.

Visa Information

How do I find out about the visa requirements for the trip I am interested in?
Check your Trip Notes for specific visa information relating to your trip, or visit our Destination Pages for general visa information. Visa requirements can change so we recommend you check directly with your nearest embassy. 

How do I organise my Visa?
Please contact your local embassy to organise your Visa/s.

Do you help with Visas?
In some case we may be able to help organise your Visa. This is dependent on your nationality and where you’re travelling to. Ask an Intrepid travel specialist at the time of booking. 

Safety and Medical Information

I am concerned about the political stability of the country through which my trip will travel.

How safe are my belongings whilst on the trip?
We endeavour to make our trips as safe as possible, but while travelling there is always the possibility of theft. A lockable bag, money belts and insurance are always important items to travel with. 

What is the best way to carry money?
We recommend having access to money from a variety of sources – cash, cards and travellers cheques are all common. Check the Trip Notes and Destination Pages for more country specific information. 

Will refrigeration be available for medicines? eg. Insulin
Availability of refrigeration cannot be guaranteed. As a general rule, many of our 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.

What are the medical and vaccination requirements?
Medical and vaccination requirements differ between nations. For detailed recommendations specific to your trip, please refer to your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip facts page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find at the top right of all our web pages - enter the code and click the magnifying glass. Once on the trip page, you will see the option to download the Trip Notes. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.

I am over 60 – do I need a medical certificate? 
Intrepid does not require a medical certificate for travellers over the age of 60. However, if you are over the age of 70 you are required to complete a Self-Assessment Form when booking their trip. 

What if I get ill or injured on the trip and unable to continue?
Our leaders are trained to deal with these situations and we will endeavour to get you help as quickly as possible. If you must leave the trip early due to illness our local offices will help you find appropriate medical care and ensure someone at home is aware of the situation. We will do whatever we can to get you home or on your onward journey. Travel insurance is compulsory on all Intrepid trips.

Currency Information

What is the currency in my destination? How much should I take in traveller's cheques/cash? Can you change traveller's cheques? Can I use my credit card during my trip?
Currency and banking services and other money matters differ between nations. Check for ATM locations in specific countries for - Mastercard or Visa. For detailed recommendations specific to your trip, please see the Spending Money and Money Exchange sections of the Trip Notes. In order to obtain Trip Notes please visit the trip specific page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find it at the top of all our main web pages - enter the code and click the magnifyign glass. Once on the trip page, you will see the link to the Trip Notes page. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click the magnifying glass. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.

What to Pack

What type of luggage do you recommend I take? 
On most Intrepid trips you will be required to carry your own luggage, sometimes up stairs and on and off transport. We therefore recommend you travel with a backpack. For a full list of what to take on your adventure see our What to pack list.

Can I store excess luggage at the starting point hotel?
Most starting point hotels can store your excess luggage for you however this is at your own risk. Often a nominal fee is charged for this service. Of course this is only an advantage if your trip is circular, i.e. returning to the starting point.

Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
Most trips don't but some do. As a general rule, trips that involve trekking or overnight stays in homestays do require a sleeping bag or sheet. Please refer to the packing 'checklist' on your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top of all our web pages - enter the code and click the magnifying glass. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click the magnifying glass'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.

What clothes and footwear should I take on treks?
Please refer to the packing 'checklist' on your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top of all our web pages - enter the code and click the magnifying glass. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click the magnifying glass'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.

What essential documents do I need to take?
It’s important that you always travel with your current passport, visas, insurance and Intrepid documentation. For more information see our What to pack list. 

My group

How can I get in touch with other people in my group before the trip?
Due to privacy laws we can’t give out your fellow travellers’ details. But if you grab Intrepid's free Meet Up app, you'll be able to chat with your group members before your trip. 

Before you go

How to obtain Trip Notes

How do I obtain Trip Notes/itinerary for full details of my trip?
Detailed Trip Notes and itinerary details are available for every trip operated by Intrepid. These notes include a detailed day-by-day itinerary, a list of included and recommended activities, and a lot of essential information to help you decide which trip is best for you. To find these details click on either the 'Itinerary' and 'Trip Notes' links from the menu on the right-hand side of trip pages.

Travel Insurance

Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all Intrepid travellers and should be taken out at the time of booking. At a minimum your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability, with a minimum coverage of US$200,000. We also strongly recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide proof of your travel insurance on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without it. If you obtain travel insurance through us you acknowledge that you are satisfied with the level of insurance we have arranged. To find out more about travel insurance or purchase it through Intrepid, click here.

Visa Information

How do I find out about the visa requirements for the trip I am interested in?
Check your Trip Notes for specific visa information relating to your trip, or visit our Destination Pages for general visa information. Visa requirements can change so we recommend you check directly with your nearest embassy. 

How do I organise my Visa?
Please contact your local embassy to organise your Visa/s.

Do you help with Visas?
In some case we may be able to help organise your Visa. This is dependent on your nationality and where you’re travelling to. Ask an Intrepid travel specialist at the time of booking. 

Safety and Medical Information

I am concerned about the political stability of the country through which my trip will travel.

How safe are my belongings whilst on the trip?
We endeavour to make our trips as safe as possible, but while travelling there is always the possibility of theft. A lockable bag, money belts and insurance are always important items to travel with. 

What is the best way to carry money?
We recommend having access to money from a variety of sources – cash, cards and travellers cheques are all common. Check the Trip Notes and Destination Pages for more country specific information. 

Will refrigeration be available for medicines? eg. Insulin
Availability of refrigeration cannot be guaranteed. As a general rule, many of our 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.

What are the medical and vaccination requirements?
Medical and vaccination requirements differ between nations. For detailed recommendations specific to your trip, please refer to your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip facts page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find at the top right of all our web pages - enter the code and click the magnifying glass. Once on the trip page, you will see the option to download the Trip Notes. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.

I am over 60 – do I need a medical certificate? 
Intrepid does not require a medical certificate for travellers over the age of 60. However, if you are over the age of 70 you are required to complete a Self-Assessment Form when booking their trip. 

What if I get ill or injured on the trip and unable to continue?
Our leaders are trained to deal with these situations and we will endeavour to get you help as quickly as possible. If you must leave the trip early due to illness our local offices will help you find appropriate medical care and ensure someone at home is aware of the situation. We will do whatever we can to get you home or on your onward journey. Travel insurance is compulsory on all Intrepid trips.

Currency Information

What is the currency in my destination? How much should I take in traveller's cheques/cash? Can you change traveller's cheques? Can I use my credit card during my trip?
Currency and banking services and other money matters differ between nations. Check for ATM locations in specific countries for - Mastercard or Visa. For detailed recommendations specific to your trip, please see the Spending Money and Money Exchange sections of the Trip Notes. In order to obtain Trip Notes please visit the trip specific page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find it at the top of all our main web pages - enter the code and click the magnifyign glass. Once on the trip page, you will see the link to the Trip Notes page. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click the magnifying glass. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.

What to Pack

What type of luggage do you recommend I take? 
On most Intrepid trips you will be required to carry your own luggage, sometimes up stairs and on and off transport. We therefore recommend you travel with a backpack. For a full list of what to take on your adventure see our What to pack list.

Can I store excess luggage at the starting point hotel?
Most starting point hotels can store your excess luggage for you however this is at your own risk. Often a nominal fee is charged for this service. Of course this is only an advantage if your trip is circular, i.e. returning to the starting point.

Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
Most trips don't but some do. As a general rule, trips that involve trekking or overnight stays in homestays do require a sleeping bag or sheet. Please refer to the packing 'checklist' on your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top of all our web pages - enter the code and click the magnifying glass. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click the magnifying glass'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.

What clothes and footwear should I take on treks?
Please refer to the packing 'checklist' on your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top of all our web pages - enter the code and click the magnifying glass. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click the magnifying glass'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.

What essential documents do I need to take?
It’s important that you always travel with your current passport, visas, insurance and Intrepid documentation. For more information see our What to pack list. 

My group

How can I get in touch with other people in my group before the trip?
Due to privacy laws we can’t give out your fellow travellers’ details. But if you grab Intrepid's free Meet Up app, you'll be able to chat with your group members before your trip. 

On Your Trip

Arrival Information

What time can I check in?
Generally check-in in Asia is midday, for Australasia & Europe it is around 2.00pm. For specific details, as there are exceptions, please refer to your Trip Notes for details. In order to obtain Trip Notes please visit the trip specific facts page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. Once in the trip facts screen, you will see the option to download the Trip Notes. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.
 
Are airport transfers included in the trip price? If not, how much will a taxi cost from the airport? If not, how do I get to and from airports?
Airport transfers are usually not included in your trip price. For information on where to go once you’ve arrived, refer to the Trip Notes for your trip. 
 

Activities

Can I opt out of certain activities if I want to?
Yes. In most situations the itineraries provided are flexible so as to enable you to build your own holiday. The trip leader may be able to help you make any specific alternative arrangements - please notify us at the time of booking. The only exception to this rule is when we are trekking, or travelling from one place to the next night's stop. Please note anything organised outside of the group activity will be at your own cost.
 
How difficult is the trek on my trip?
For all travellers we recommend that you check out the Physical and Culture Shock Rating that applies to the trip you are considering and make your own judgement according to your fitness levels. The rating for each trip is provided in the 'is this trip right for you?' information box. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search' which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference. Once you are on the trip page, scroll down to the Physical Rating and check out the rating. For more details on the rating system, click on 'rating definitions' or refer directly to the fine print.
 
Do I get any free time?
Part of the joy of travelling is discovering things on your own. We design our itineraries with plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Many activities are optional so you can join in as much or as little as you like. Check the Trip Notes for more information on your adventure. 
 
What if I arrive late and miss part of the trip?
Let us know if you’re arriving late and we’ll do our best to arrange a meeting point with your group. We don’t refund for any days/activities you miss. 
 
Amenities
Are there western toilets available?
Some trips have regular access to western toilets while others don't. As a general rule, the more remote the place the less likely you are to find western bathroom facilities.
 
Will I be able to do any laundry?
Along the way there will usually be chances to do laundry, either through your hotel or local services. Your leader will be able to let you know once you are on the trip.
 

Campsites

What facilities are at the campsites?
Camping facilities differ depending on your Trip Style and the country you are travelling through. Check your Trip Notes for more information. 
 

Hotels

Can you provide me a list of hotels we are staying at?
The hotels you start and finish your trip in are listed in your Trip Notes. In our most popular destinations we use a variety of hotels so we are unable to give you with a list before departure. However, your leader generally will be able to provide you with a list on day 1 of your adventure.
 
Are hotels air-conditioned/ heated?
It all depends on where you are going and what your Trip Style is. Check your Trip Notes for more information. 
 
What standards of hotels should I expect?
The standard of hotel depends on the Trip Style you have chosen. Basix accommodation is generally budget (1-2 star) while Original is budget or tourist class (2-3 star). On a Comfort trip you can expect tourist-class (3-4 star).
 

Communications

What communication facilities will be available?
See your Trip Notes for information on what communication facilities are available to you on your journey. 
 
How can friends and family contact you?
If family and friends are unable to contact you through email, phone or your accommodation, they can contact Intrepid directly. 
 
Will my mobile work?
Many of our destinations are out of the way and you may have limited coverage. Be sure to turn on global roaming before you leave. Check with network provider that your phone is set up correctly so you don’t come home to a massive phone bill.
 
Will I get internet coverage?
Some places have Wi-Fi hot spots everywhere and other places will have no coverage at all. If you stumble into the latter, take the chance to just sit back and get to know your fellow travellers the old fashioned way. 
 
Will I be able to charge my electrical appliances?
In most places you’ll be able to recharge your appliances at the hotel. We recommend you bring a travel adapter with you. On our Overland trips most vehicles come with their own power supply and you should be able to recharge on board. Be sure to bring an extra camera battery just in case. 
 

Transport

What type of ground transportation is used?
If it moves there’s a good chance you’ll be riding on it. We try to use as much local transport as possible which means travelling on everything from a camel to train or bus. See your Trip Notes for specific transportation information on your journey. 
 
Will the coach be modern and comfortable?
Definitely maybe. Your coach might be a local bus full of produce on its way to market. Or it might have reclining seats and a drinks trolley. Whichever it is, you can be sure the journey will be as exciting as the destination. Check Trip Notes for specific transportation information relating to your trip. 
 

Kitty

What trips may have a kitty and what is it?
On some of our Overland and Basix trips we operate a 'kitty' system for our travellers. The kitty is a cash contribution to a central fund and overseen by the travellers and the crew. It helps fund accommodation, camp meals or activities for the entire group. Contribution to the kitty is compulsory on some trips while voluntary on others - please refer to the specific Trip Notes for details. Kitty amounts published in the brochure may change. Current kitty amounts can be found on our website so please check for the up to date amount 48 hours prior to your trip commencement.
 

Tipping Information

Is tipping commonplace in other parts of the world? 
Yes, tipping is commonplace in most parts of the world. Your trip notes provide a general guide to recommended tipping amounts and your leader can advise in more detail where and when tipping is appropriate.
 

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