It really depends on the trip. We offer quite a variety of activity grades to help you select the right level of activity. Always be honest with yourself about your abilities, and always do some training in the run up to your trip.
You'd be surprised at what you can achieve, especially going at your own pace on one of our independent adventures. Your specialist is the best person to ask for advice on a specific trip. The active kind of holiday offers rewards like no other.
No you don't need special technical equipment, although your information pack will always guide you towards the correct kit. Bear in mind you'll be outdoors, so always be prepared for changing weather (rain or shine), so waterproofs and sunscreen are always recommended!
If you're a beginner to adventure travel on an easier or moderate grade trip, just use common sense and don't feel the need to spend a fortune on fancy outdoor kit. We can't stress enough the importance of comfortable and practical clothing, good footwear for walking, and a well fitted cycle helmet for cycling though.
Whilst cycling helmets may be available to hire at your destination, they are often very light to pack, and bringing your own is more hygienic and likely to be a better fit.
For the seasoned adventurer, we may of course recommend specific kit for some of the more remote or strenuous routes, but we don't currently offer any technical climbs.
We suggest you check our booking conditions page for full information. Sections 5, 6 and 7 in particular should help.
Yes, it is one of the conditions of booking with us that you arrange adequate travel insurance to cover you for any eventuality during your trip, for example medical expenses or loss of personal items. You should take out a travel insurance policy to cover you on any trip you take. Make sure your insurance provider covers you for any activities you will be taking part in on your trip. See our 5 Reasons to Get Travel Insurance blog, or view more information on travel insurance.
- We require a 20% deposit to start booking all the individual elements of your trip, which is payable over the phone or online (the full balance is due 6 weeks prior to departure, so if you book less than 6 weeks in advance your deposit will be the full tour cost).
- Every trip is tailor made just for you, so we confirm availability individually and book all your accommodation and options, then send you final confirmation as soon as everything is confirmed (usually max 5 working days).
- If we are unable to accommodate you on your confirmed dates/tour or an alternative of your choice your deposit is fully refunded.
The important thing is not to book flights or travel until you get your final confirmation email. Most of the time, there will be no problem though! Bike and boat deposit terms vary slightly, and you can see our full booking conditions and terms here.
This varies from trip to trip, but usually accommodation, baggage transfers, comprehensive information and route guidance, which is often available on our free app.
Expert organisation using our team's insights, and of course 24/7 emergency support whilst you are on your trip.
On each tour web page, check the ""What's Included" tab. Sometimes there are other things included to make your trip run smoothly, anything from rail travel to wine tasting!
We suggest you book as soon as you decide on your dates. Each trip has busy seasons, and due to remote locations, accommodations can get full. We will always try and accommodate your plans no matter when you book though, and we have some very useful contacts and relationships.
Many of our trips come with baggage transfer included (some have optional baggage transfer, and on very few remote trips baggage transfer is unavailable, but do check the exact tour inclusions).
You will drop overnight bags (one per person) by an allotted time each morning in a designated area in your hotel or B&B. This leaves you free to walk unencumbered, with only your day pack of essentials.
Your baggage will be transferred to your next night's accommodation, and will usually arrive before you do! Each information pack will advise you of any weight limits or restrictions you should be aware of.
"Self-guided" means that you don't have a guide with you, although you’ll be well-equipped with all of the information you need to successfully follow your route. You’ll also have phone support from our offices as well as our local agents.
We believe that self-guided travel can't be beaten in terms of value, experience and sense of achievement. Most of our trips operate with this in mind. In remote/emerging destinations, or places where a local guide might add value, we do run guided and small group adventures. The goal, however, is always to discover and enjoy your own, unique and independent experience – as opposed to following a crowd and being restricted.
Australia
New Zealand
South Africa
European Union