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The Scoop: What to Know About Intrepid Travel

Local experts, a focus on sustainability, and immersive small group experiences help set intrepid travel apart from other tour operators..

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Intrepid Travel helps travelers see the world in an immersive and impactful way, with a company mission to create positive change through the joy of travel. A leader in responsible travel for 35 years, Intrepid has been recognized by TourScoop as one of the best group travel operators in the world.

In 2018, it became the world’s largest travel company to achieve B Corp certification, and in 2020 it became the first tour operator with near-term science-based climate targets  through the Science Based Targets initiative. Its not-for-profit initiative,  The Intrepid Foundation , has raised more than $13 million for some 135 partners that include Greening Australia, World Bicycle Relief, Gorilla Doctors, and Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust.

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Intrepid has its own network of destination management companies in 26 countries, providing travelers with local expertise and perspective. Its small group travel tours come in a variety of styles and themes, traveling to more than 100 countries around the globe. Guests experience the well-known highlights, secret spots, and local culture in a responsible and insightful way.

TourScoop Takeaways

• Destinations: More than 1,150 small group tours offered in more than 100 countries on all seven continents
• Tour Size Average: Tours average about 10 people
• Tour Type: Small group guided tours

How to Book with Intrepid Travel

You can book a tour online through  IntrepidTravel.com , by phone at 800-970-7299, or with your preferred local travel agent.

Credibility Check

Intrepid is no stranger to industry awards and recognition, and it’s received some big accolades recently. It was named one of Time’s 100  most influential companies  in 2023 and made Fast Company’s list of the 10  most innovative corporate social responsibility initiatives  that same year. Dr. Susanne Etti, Global Environmental Impact Manager for Intrepid Travel, was also named one of National Geographic’s  Travelers of the Year  for 2024. On  TourRadar , Intrepid Travel has a rating of 4.6/5 based on more than 8,500 reviews.

Tour Destinations

Intrepid tours span the globe, with more than 1,150 small group tour options in more than 100 countries and on all seven continents. Some of its most popular tour destinations include Morocco, Vietnam, Peru, India, Egypt, Cambodia, and Australia.

Intrepid Travel offers four styles of tours for different travel styles and budgets. Its  Basix  trips feature simple accommodations like budget hotels, camping, or homestays and offer lots of free time for independent exploration. Intrepid’s  Original  tours typically feature three-star accommodations, some meals, and included activities, while  Comfort  tours offer a higher level of accommodations and inclusions. The top tour tier,  Premium , includes stays at memorable four-star-level accommodations, exclusive unique experiences, and the company’s most experienced leaders.

Within these four levels, a variety of themed tours are offered. These include  family tours ,  food tours ,  active adventure tours ,  wildlife tours ,  walking and trekking tours , and  cycling tours .

Tour Guides

Intrepid works exclusively with local tour guides. The company believes that the best people to show travelers a destination are people who actually live there. Intrepid Travel’s local leaders know the backroads and hidden gems in a destination and help tourgoers mingle with other locals.

What’s Included with an Intrepid Travel Tour

Intrepid’s tour prices include all accommodations and transport during the trip, group activities, and local tour guides throughout the tour. Other inclusions vary depending on tour type. For example, Premium tours have more activities and excursions included, while Basix trips have more optional activities for an additional cost. Every tour type except for Basix includes at least some meals.

What’s Not Included

• Flights to and from your trip 
• Transfers to and from your trip (for all tour types except Premium)
• Gratuities for local leaders
• Optional activities 

Typical Travelers

Intrepid tours are designed for and attract travelers of all ages and interests. Basix trips tend to attract younger travelers, while Premium tours draw in a more mature clientele. The company also offers a range of family adventures that bring together three to five like-minded families. The minimum age for these trips varies depending on the destination and activity level.

Communication

After you book a tour with Intrepid Travel, you will receive your final documents by email or mail about 30 days before departure; these include the itinerary and an Essential Trip Information package. Intrepid consultants are available by phone, email, or live chat to answer questions, and the company proactively informs travelers of any potential changes related to individual travel plans and bookings.

Intrepid Travel’s Loyalty Program

Anyone who’s traveled with the company becomes part of the  Intrepid Insiders  program. Members receive emails with Insiders-only previews of sales, info about new trips, and partner offers.

Sustainability Efforts

Intrepid has been carbon neutral since 2010, and it carbon offsets all trips. The company continues to look for ways to reduce its carbon emissions, such as by removing short-haul flight legs from some trips. It’s also added  carbon labels  to 500 trips (including more than 100 of its top-selling tours) that detail the emissions generated through the accommodations, transportation, food, activities, staffing, and operations that go into each trip. As a certified B Corp since 2018, Intrepid prides itself on transparency and accountability.

Health and Safety Practices

Intrepid’s Travel Alerts page offers current info on travel alerts and advisories along with entry, health, and visa requirements travelers need to know. The Safe Travels Hub offers even more health and safety info, and Intrepid has received the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels stamp for the health and hygiene protocols it has adopted.

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Tour Review: Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound

Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid Travel on their Vietnam Express Southbound 10-day tour is everything that’s terrific and transformative about travel.

This was my 2nd Intrepid tour, completely different from the incredible  Okavango Experience , but just as unforgettable, educational, gratifying, and culturally immersive in a way that is unique to Vietnam and the travelers and guide I was lucky enough to explore and experience with.

In this guide, I’ll not only share my complete review of my time with Intrepid Travel in Vietnam, but I’ll also do my best to explain the intangibles about why small group travel with Intrepid is so special.

Spoiler Alert! If you’re considering the  Intrepid Travel Vietnam Express Southbound  tour, don’t hesitate. Book it and go with an open heart and curious mind for a not-to-be-forgotten trip!

This 10-day Vietnam Express Southbound tour starts in the north, in Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi, and ends in Ho Chi Minh City in the south. 

In between, the tour itinerary takes you to popular spots in Vietnam including Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta. And, in a way that’s unique to Intrepid, you not only see those must-see sights but also learn about the country’s history, culture, and experience local daily life.

It’s that last part about the local culture, daily life, and the people you meet along the way that’ll flash through your mind long after your trip to Vietnam is done.

What Happens While Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid

It would be easy to share a list of all the popular sights and activities you’ll see and do while in Vietnam with Intrepid. But I’d be leaving out so many moments that make this trip so much more than just another Vietnam sightseeing trip!

When you travel with Intrepid, you get to mix must-see sights, off-the-beaten-path stops, and interactions with locals you wouldn’t be able to have otherwise had you traveled independently.

Intrepid’s Vietnam Express Southbound Itinerary

No doubt if you’re considering this tour, you’ve read through the day-by-day itinerary on Intrepid’s website. I’ve put together this video to show how memorable just these highlights are all by themselves.

But, there are so many other unforgettable moments you don’t see in the trip outline. These moments are unique to your group and your guide but give a glimpse of how amazing it is to travel with a company like Intrepid that wholeheartedly believes in the powerful impact of authentic local experiences. What You Don’t See

I purposefully didn’t include activities I did outside of the tour. However, if you look at the Intrepid itinerary, you’ll notice the first day doesn’t start until 6 pm and the last day is open for the group to do independent activities or depart as warranted by their travel plans.

I took these opportunities to see more of Vietnam. Before the 6 pm meeting on Day 1, I joined the Urban Adventures Hanoi Morning Highlights Tour and then used the afternoon to wander independently and visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex and Stilt House. It was great to have this time to do some sightseeing in Hanoi.

On the last day, I went with Urban Adventures to tour the Cu Chi Tunnels just outside Ho Chi Minh City…an absolute must! The tunnels and how they were built and used are utterly fascinating. Back in the city just after midday, I independently visited Independence Palace and did some more shopping at the Ben Thanh Market.

Practical Details

If you’ve never traveled with a tour before or with Intrepid, you’re probably wondering about some of the logistics, as well as who you’ll be traveling with.

Before You Go:

Intrepid requires travel insurance for all travelers no matter which tour it is.  World Nomads  provides travel insurance for all types of trips, travelers, and budgets.

Vietnam requires U.S. residents to get a Visa to enter the country. Luckily, it’s an easy process that can be done online. You can apply for one at the  Vietnam e-Visa web portal . You have to upload a photo of yourself and pay $25. After that, it takes about 3 business days to get your e-Visa. It’s valid for a single entry 30-day Vietnam Visa.

Southeast Asia has a hot, humid climate. And, countries like Vietnam also dress conservatively. This combination means you want lightweight, loose-fitting clothing with enough skin coverage. Moisture-wicking fabric is also great for travel because when you want to wash it out, it dries quickly.

Specifically for this Intrepid Vietnam tour, pack a  sleep sheet  (or an old sheet you can use and leave behind to lighten your bag) and this  compressible pillow  for the train from Hanoi to Hue like I did. I slept comfortably on a clean sheet! And, what I love about that pillow is it packs down small but expands to be nearly the size of a regular pillow. (I took it on my other incredible Intrepid trip to camp in the  Okavango Delta , too!)

On the Trip:

Who is the guide.

Intrepid hires and works with guides who are locals that live in and are experts on the places visited on the tour itinerary. By doing so, it’s a win-win for you, the traveler, and the local community.

First, some of the money you pay for the tour pays these guides. Enough said, right? No matter where we are from, we all know how empowering and impactful a job is for the individual, their families, and communities.

Along with this, you, the traveler, get a guide with first-hand cultural and location-based knowledge who inevitably opens doors for an immersive, authentic look at daily life.

Nam was the guide for our group and not only could he talk about the history of a specific temple or make sure the group allowed enough time to get from one place to another, but he also recommended local places to eat, showed us how to smoke that bamboo tube pipe you see people passing in Hanoi, and stopped in the countryside at a burial site to explain more about the rituals and beliefs Vietnamese have about death and their ancestors.

Who travels with Intrepid?

From 20s-70s, hailing from all over the world, Intrepid travelers are adventurous travel-lovers who welcome authentic experiences no matter where they are.

Both of my Intrepid groups have been a perfect blend of exactly that combination. There have been Americans, Aussies, Europeans, and Canadians traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family whether for a first-time out-of-college travel experience or celebrating a 30-year wedding anniversary.

The best part is they’re all travel lovers who are ready to explore! And, if you’re lucky like I’ve been, you’ll come away with travel memories and lasting friendships.

What are the accommodations like?

Intrepid has different types of tours, Basix, Original, and Comfort. This Vietnam Express Southbound tour is Original. Hotels are typically comfortable 3-star hotels for this type of tour.

All the hotels from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh were modern with relatively spacious rooms located conveniently in each city so we could walk to restaurants, shops, markets, and popular sights. Not all Intrepid tours stay at the same hotels but for reference, this is  the hotel  our group stayed at in Hue.

The one exception was in Hoi An, where the hotel was a 10-minute walk outside the old town and more of a 2-star hotel compared to the others where we stayed.

This  Vietnam Express Southbound tour  has 2 nights not spent in hotels, too.

In Ha Long Bay, we slept on our own junk boat. Each of us had our own cabins with ensuite bathrooms, fans, and air conditioning. Since I was traveling on my own, I had a cabin with 2 twin beds. On the main deck, there was an enclosed dining room, with outdoor deck seating at both ends of the boat.

We also took an overnight train from Hanoi to Hue. Intrepid books “First Class” cabins but it’s important to understand trains in Vietnam are not like the sleeper trains you might find in Europe, for example. We had private cabins for only our group but each cabin has 2 sets of bunks, sleeping 4 people in each. I shared with 3 other girls in the group and slept comfortably. The bathroom is shared among the car occupants.

I did bring my own sleeping sheet and used my travel pillow and  recommend you do the same . I loved waking up early to watch the Vietnamese countryside fly by from my window.

How does the group travel?

For the majority of the time, you’ll travel by private, air-conditioned van arranged by Intrepid. We did also take the boat out for the day and night onto Ha Long Bay, the train to Hue, and a short flight to get from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh. We flew on SkyTeam Alliance member, Vietnam Airlines.

What happens for meals?

Expect some of the best food ever! Not just with the included meals, but also because you have a local guide at your disposal who can recommend the best places to eat depending on what you want or need to meet any dietary restrictions. I’m a vegetarian and never lacked for anything delicious to eat.

Breakfasts are included in the tour, and typically part of the hotel breakfasts which offered complete western and Vietnamese breakfast foods. A few lunches and dinners throughout the 10 days are part of the tour, as well.

On the first night in Hanoi, our group had a delicious first meal together at KOTO, a restaurant partnered with the Intrepid Foundation. (If you didn’t know, Intrepid is a B Corp, which means they’ve committed to be a force for good and to put purpose before profit.) KOTO is a program that trains disadvantaged kids in hospitality and culinary skills.

Lunch and dinner were included on the Ha Long Bay cruise. We had a feast of local specialties that were prepared onboard with more than enough to satisfy our whole group. I’m a vegetarian and the group also had a few picky eaters, as well as someone who needed gluten-free meals. All of us were accommodated.

We had an incredible (all vegetarian!) lunch at a Buddhist monastery. I wish I could go back and get more cooked banyan fruit! 

The tour also included another feast lunch at a house restaurant in the Mekong Delta. 

Should You Book the Vietnam Express Southbound Tour with Intrepid? 

If you’ve read and watched this far,  Intrepid’s Vietnam Express Southbound tour  is calling your name!

This tour is right for you if you want to spend time sightseeing in Vietnam, but you also have a genuine curiosity about the Vietnamese people, culture, and daily life.

You’ll absolutely love this tour if you want a mix of group time, where the logistics are taken care of, and free time, when you can explore or relax as you want.

And you’ll definitely want to join in if you enjoy meeting other travel-lovers from around the world who are just as game as you to experience new things, taste new foods, and let the transformative power of travel expand their minds and hearts.

What questions do you have about traveling on the Vietnam Express Southbound tour with Intrepid?

Like this post? Please share it on social media using the share buttons below.

Disclosure: I was a guest of Intrepid Travel all opinions are my own…Easy to do when Intrepid makes travel so unforgettable!

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2 thoughts on “tour review: intrepid travel vietnam express southbound”.

Loved reading this review. Answered every single question I had. Thank you 🙂

Thanks so much for reading, Barbara. I’m glad the review was helpful!

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Intrepid Travel Review – the Largest “Small Group” Adventure Travel Company

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Table of Contents

Who are intrepid travel tours good for, intrepid travel styles, intrepid travel tour themes and destinations, intrepid travel top tours, intrepid travel reviews, intrepid travel vs. g adventures, intrepid travel insurance, intrepid promo code, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Traveling the world is an exciting adventure, but for many, it can be a stressful experience. Worries of safety, navigation, and tackling language barriers can be enough to put off many travelers, especially if you’re considering going solo.

Intrepid has been operating small group tours for over 30 years and is one of the major leaders in the industry. You can choose from over 1,000 tours to 100 destinations, selecting the comfort level that suits your budget and travel style. You’ll be guided throughout your journey — right from the point of booking — with advice on visas , currency, and other essential trip information .

Intrepid has been a fully carbon-neutral company since 2010 by investing in projects that actively reduce CO2 emissions. So you can feel safe in the knowledge that you’re traveling as green as possible while embarking on your adventure. Intrepid small group tours usually accommodate up to 16 people but tend to have an average of around 10.

Solo Travelers

Most of us have been in a situation where we’ve been desperate to go traveling, but none of our friends or family are in the position to go with us. You’re then left with the dilemma of going it alone or missing out on the experience altogether. Thankfully, that’s where a small group tour can help.

Even though you’re traveling solo, you’re never really alone on an Intrepid tour. There are rarely single supplement rates as you’ll buddy up with another traveler of the same gender. Of course, you still have the option to upgrade to your own room if you would like to.

Friends or Groups

Joining a tour with a group of friends is great if you like the idea of spending time with them while also being open to mixing with other people. No one likes being the organizer, so joining a small group tour eliminates the pressure from 1 person having to book everything and manage payments. You’re all equal participants on an Intrepid tour.

If you’re traveling with children under 17 , you’re welcome to join a family tour. Let someone else do the organizing and navigating so that you can enjoy the experience of traveling with your family . An Intrepid family tour can be a fun and educational experience for your child and can help them gain confidence by interacting with new people.

Hot Tip:  You might have a long flight or some lengthy road trips to contend with. Prepare yourself with some entertainment by checking out the best podcasts and audiobooks for travel .

If you’re on a budget or believe that a hotel is simply somewhere to rest your head for the night, a Basix Tour could be for you. This tour style focuses on simple accommodation (such as camping or homestays) and lots of free time, so you’re not spending money on excursions that you have no interest in.

Original Tours combine tourist-class accommodation (2- to 3-star hotels) with local and private transport. There’s a blend of planned excursions and independent exploration , suiting those travelers looking for a balance between guided local knowledge and free time.

Comfort Tours feature more comfortable and unique accommodation with more frills than the Basix and Original Tours. Private transport is used throughout, and these tours run at a slower pace with exploration and activities usually led by a guide.

18 to 29s Tours

As the name suggests, these tours are specifically for those that fall into the 18- to 29-years-old age bracket and tend to cover the highlights of a destination with lots of free time. With around 10 people per tour, there are plenty of opportunities for making friends , while also allowing you to explore independently if you prefer.

Hot Tip: Contiki is a similar tour company that caters to young travelers in a similar age bracket —  18 to 35 years old. Some tours can accommodate much larger groups, upwards of 50 people. Read more about the tour types and destinations in our Contiki review !

Adventure Cruising

Adventure Cruises accommodate less than 50 passengers  so the ships can explore places that large cruise liners can’t reach. Groups are large enough to socialize with various travelers but are small enough to feel that your arrival on land doesn’t swarm a destination impacting that local experience.

Hot Tip: Our ultimate cruise vacation packing checklist helps ensure that you have everything you need to be dressed for any occasion.

Cycling Tours

Cycling Tours are an excellent way to enjoy the journey and the destination , peddling along with incredible views and authentic encounters. Each tour has a physical rating , so you can determine whether the trip is right for you, and includes a tour leader and support vehicle.

Hot Tip: If you’re an adventure seeker, you’ll want to pack all of the essentials for your next active vacation.

Family Tours

Family Tours consist of family-friendly activities and accommodation mixed with flexible free time. Your tour leader will be specifically trained in family travel with groups accommodating 3 to 5 like-minded families.

Food Tours will give you a true flavor of some of the world’s most famous culinary destinations . Discover fresh food markets and local restaurants, or try your hand at a cooking class.

Lonely Planet Experiences

Intrepid has partnered with Lonely Planet to provide exciting tours for adventurous and independent travelers. Seek out the mountain gorillas of Uganda or ride the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto. You’ll have a knowledgeable local leader and can read all about the destination before your trip with 12 months of free access to the Lonely Planet app .

Hot Tip:  Tours often include a fair bit of walking to see the sights, so you’ll need a good pair of hiking boots or shoes . 

Polar Tours

They may be polar opposites, but the Arctic Circle and the Antarctic have 1 thing in common — they’re both incredible destinations. Look out for polar bears and the Northern Lights in the Arctic and kayak among breaching whales in the Antarctic. Exploration ships have modern amenities , and expert leaders hold interesting seminars and guide travelers on exciting excursions.

Hot Tip: One of our writers sailed to Antarctica on a trip booked through Intrepid .

Retreats are short breaks that could be just a short drive or flight from your home, where you live and explore as the locals do . All retreats feature 1 accommodation, so you’ll only have to unpack once with all your free time spent immersing yourself in the local community rather than traveling.

Other Tour Themes

• Active Adventures
• Expeditions
• Short Breaks
• Tailor Made
• Urban Adventures
• Walking and Trekking
• Women’s Expeditions

Hot Tip:  Avoid the temptation of pickpockets and keep your hands free to explore with these crossbody bags and purses . 

Destinations

Intrepid Travel offers over 1,000 tours to over 100 countries within these continents and regions:

• Antarctica/Arctic
• Australia and Oceania
• Central America
• Middle East
• North America
• South America

Intrepid Australia

From lush rainforests and glistening beaches to baron deserts and cosmopolitan cities, Australia is a country of contrasts. Every region is uniquely different, and due to the sheer size of the country, it’s unlikely that you’ll get to see everything in a single trip. Most tours stick within a particular region . You could be snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, heading out to Kangaroo Island, or exploring the vineyards of the Margaret River.

• Includes transportation, accommodation, most meals, and some excursions

Hot Tip:  As flights are not included in the tour price, you may want to check out the best ways to fly to Australia with points and miles

Intrepid Cambodia

The Cambodian people are the country’s shining stars. Incredibly friendly with smiles all around, this inspiring nation has risen from the 1970s bloodshed of the Khmer Rouge and welcomes visitors with open arms. It’s an unforgettable moment seeing the sunrise over Angkor Wat or spotting a rare freshwater dolphin swimming along the Mekong Delta.

• Includes transportation, accommodation, some meals, and most activities

Intrepid Costa Rica

With an ecotourism scene , farm-to-table restaurants, and unspoiled natural surroundings, it’s not surprising that Costa Rica’s motto is “Pura Vida” – the pure life. Spot toucans in the mysterious cloud forests, try your hand at a surf lesson, or glide through treetop canopies on a zipline adventure. There is so much to see and do in Costa Rica , and with a tour, you can let someone else do the driving.

• Includes transportation, accommodation, and some activities

Hot Tip:  Intrepid tours use locally run guesthouses, homestays, and restaurants to support local communities rather than large chains.

Intrepid Cuba

When you think of Cuba, you think of colorful colonial buildings, vintage cars, and turquoise waters. But there is so much more to see apart from the vibrant capital Havana and its beautiful beaches. Head out to Vinales to tour a traditional tobacco plantation or enjoy some salsa dancing in historical Trinidad.

• Includes transportation, accommodation, and excursions

Intrepid Egypt

Egypt is a land of ancient wonders with a history as long as the Nile itself. Marvel at the magnificent pyramids and bargain for souvenirs in the bustling bazaars of Cairo. Sail down the River Nile on a traditional felucca and discover the ancient city of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings.

• Includes transportation, accommodation, excursions, and some meals

Intrepid Greece

Discover the ancient ruins of Athens before crossing the Aegean to island-hop your way between the beautiful Greek islands. Weave your way around the cute whitewashed houses of Santorini or explore the clifftop ruins of Delphi. Greece is also renowned for its nightlife , whether you’re looking for a quiet bar to watch the sunset or a club to dance into the early hours.

Intrepid Iceland

From bubbling hot springs to mountain glaciers, and lush green landscapes to frozen waterfalls, Iceland’s diverse landscape is one of the main attractions that draw visitors to the land of fire and ice. That and the prospect of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon or simply chat with locals in Reykjavik or any of the friendly coastal towns.

Intrepid India

India captivates many visitors with its thriving culture, historical sights, wild beaches, and wildlife. The busy cities and sometimes intense atmosphere prevent many from venturing to India independently, and taking a tour can alleviate the pressure . If you love exploring temples, then you’re in for a treat as India has millions.

Intrepid Jordan

Soak up the history of the Silk Road, explore the mysterious deserts of Wadi Rum, and visit the magnificent ruins of Petra. Jordan is a haven for history buffs and adventurers alike . For a more relaxed pace, travelers can watch an Arabian sunrise from their Bedouin camp or float in the mineral-rich Red Sea, enjoying every minute of the famous Jordanian hospitality.

• Includes transportation, accommodation, and some meals and excursions

Intrepid Morocco

Wander around chaotic and colorful Marrakesh before changing up the scenery with a trip into the Atlas Mountains where you can hike and visit a Berber village. Amble across the Sahara Desert by camel to reach your Bedouin camp or enjoy yoga or surfing in the coastal towns of Essaouira and Taghazout.

Intrepid Peru

Hike within the Andes to reach Machu Picchu — the most well-preserved archeological site for ancient Incan civilizations. Although these mountain ruins are the most visited attraction in Peru , there is so much more to this incredible country. Tours will take you to the unique islands of Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, and deep into the Amazon Jungle in search of black alligators.

• Includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and porters (guided hike)

Hot Tip:  Mosquitoes and other biting bugs can be found all over the world. If you prefer to steer clear of DEET-based repellents, take a look at the best natural insect repellents to help protect you.

Intrepid Sri Lanka

Due to its modest size, you can see a lot of Sri Lanka in a small space of time . Not that a trip to this enchanting country should be rushed. Savor your journey around the ever-changing landscapes, from the vast plains of the north, the rocky mountains and rain forests of the center, and beautiful beaches framing most of the rugged coastline. See the largest gathering of Asian elephants or go in search of the elusive leopard. The food is delicious, the culture is captivating, and the people are friendly.

• Includes transportation, accommodation, and some excursions and meals

Intrepid Vietnam

All who visit Vietnam are blown away by its natural beauty . Watch farmers harvest rice from the colorful fields or sail around the towering limestone rocks of Halong Bay. The powdery white beaches of Phu Quoc Island are glorious, and wondrous waterfalls and caves make for fantastic photo opportunities. If variety is what you’re after, that is exactly what you’ll get visiting Vietnam. One minute you’re negotiating swarms of motorcycles crossing the road in Hanoi and the next your rafting peacefully down the rivers of Ninh Binh.

Hot Tip:  Find out the best ways to fly to Vietnam with points and miles . Currently, there are no direct routes from the U.S. to Vietnam, but with Vietnam Airlines recently receiving the required Air Carrier Permit, this could be on the horizon.

Intrepid Travel is well-reviewed across many of the major review sites. Many customers have recently taken to these sites to negatively review Intrepid’s cancellation and refund policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Trustpilot : 2.8 out of 5
• TourRadar : 4.6 out of 5
• Facebook : 4.9 out of 5

These are some reviews from Intrepid’s most popular tours, and more can be found on the individual destination pages :

Great Ocean Road Adventure ex Adelaide “Great little trip from Adelaide to Melbourne if you’re short on time and want to see the Great Ocean Road. The guide was excellent and the itinerary packed a lot in!” — Kaitlyn

Cambodian Traveller “A good introduction to the country stopping at the main points of interest. Would highly recommend Intrepid as its a well organized operation which takes the difficulties out of traveling in a less developed country where you don’t speak the language. The tour guide was a great help, knowledgeable, enthusiastic and kind. A great trip.” — Imogen

Classic Costa Rica “This has been my third trip with Intrepid. As usual I enjoyed it immensely. This trip deserves additional high praise. Their guides as usual are top class, very knowledgeable and approachable. They show not only in words but actions, how looking after the environment is a major part of Intrepids policy.” — John

Hola Cuba – for US citizens “The Hola Cuba Trip For US Citizens is an excellent introduction to Cuba, it’s people and their culture. The trip provides glimpses into the urban cultures of Habana, Trinidad and Cienfuegos while also allowing travelers to see the quieter lives of those in Viñales and Las Terrazas. Our guide Andy was very knowledgeable of the history a culture of his homeland and did an amazing job of sharing the beauty of Cuba through experience and storytelling. I absolutely recommend this trip for travelers thirsty to learn about Cuba and its people.” — Jason

Egypt Experience “Our group traveling in Egypt was a group of 10- a perfect number. Our leader was mature, very knowledgeable, organized, and treated us all with respect. He did not hover over us and gave us information to make decisions. To visit the antiquities of Egypt was amazing and we had plenty of time to absorb these awesome sites. Our visit to a Nubian village and share a family meal was special. This trip is highly recommended.” — Margaret & Tom

Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos “Our sailing adventure true Greek islands was an unforgettable experience! If You love sailing and want to see a real beauty of Greece this trip is for you. Swimming and snorkeling in turquoise water, cave exploration, hiking, beautiful sunsets, sunrises and delicious food are all guaranteed. Great mixture of adventure, relaxation and fun. We also had the best skipper ever, Rita. She was so friendly and knowledgeable. Took the best care of us.! Unbelievable woman with a great personality. She shows us so many beautiful places that we couldn’t even imagine. The boat was way over 10 years old, not 5 as in booklet. All through we had a great trip with great people :)” — Marcin

Northern Lights Escape “I had huge expectations of Iceland. My 6 day Intrepid small group tour (9 of us), met them all. Stefano, our guide, was fantastic – funny, knowledgeable and took great care of us. The itinerary allowed us to see and experience all the amazing highlights of Iceland, and more, even though we didn’t luck out with the aurora. Our tour was early March, so everything was white. I’d do it all again in a flash, and will return and do it in summer, too! I highly recommend Intrepid. Just do it!” — Margi

India’s Golden Triangle – For Solo Travellers “This trip was fantastic! I wasn’t sure what to expect as I hadn’t done anything like this before but I’m so glad I booked it. All the hotels were of a good standard as were the tours and transport. Shakti was a fantastic tour leader as was the group I travelled with. I will cherish the memories of this trip forever. I can’t wait to book another trip!” — Chantal

Trek Jordan “Great trip. Ticked all the boxes I was looking for. Loved floating in the Dead Sea and the accommodation there was outstanding. Petra was awesome, especially the trek to the Monastery. That was a great day. Loved trekking Wadi Rum too. What a landscape – no wonder they used it for “The Martian” and other movies. And our guide Muhammad was brilliant – couldn’t have asked for better!” — Robert

Best of Morocco “Intrepid provided an authentic and special experience. I knew my money was going to the people who needed it most. Due to Intrepid’s dedication to providing socially and environmentally conscious tours, the tour drew a unique, like-minded group of people who shared similar values and an appreciation of diverse cultures and the environment. This, along with the exceptional tour guide, are why I will continue to travel with Intrepid in the future. Thank you for a trip of a lifetime!” — Penelope

Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu Extension “This may not be the Inca Trail, but it is still beautiful and cultural. To stand in the Andes and listen to the silence, there are no words. It is still pristine as you wander up through farming communities and then on to the highlands. The waterfall is rather spectacular also and of course Machu Picchu itself. If you are lucky enough to have Kleberth Ovalle as your guide, you will leave much enriched.” — Deb

Cycle Sri Lanka “A wonderful experience to cycle through the country, meeting the local communities and sampling the local food. Some days the terrain was challenging and I was pleased I had an e-bike! Our guide Dodan was enthusiastic, well informed and always went above and beyond the call of duty. A great holiday and one I would thoroughly recommend.” — Heather

Vietnam Express Northbound “This trip gave an excellent overview of Vietnam. The presence of a guide made navigating a country with such a different language and culture to ours much easier. The transport was safe and well organised. Hotels were well situated and clean. We had plenty opportunities to explore on our own but there was always plenty of advice offered about places to avoid.” — Carol

Intrepid Travel and G Adventures are very similar in their product offerings, both offering a wide range of destinations and tour types. Intrepid has over 1,000 tours to over 100 counties , so it does exceed G Adventures’ 700 tours if the range is a factor for you.

Price-wise, both operators are pretty much on par with each other , but if you are comparing a similar itinerary, do check what inclusions are featured as some Intrepid packages include more bang for your buck than G Adventures.

Travel insurance is mandatory when traveling on an Intrepid tour, and your tour leader will need to see documentation before you set off. Although Intrepid doesn’t offer travel insurance, it recommends booking through World Nomads .

Intrepid recommends that your travel insurance covers you for:

• Medical expenses and emergency repatriation
• Personal liability
• Cancellation
• Curtailment
• Loss of luggage and personal effects

Hot Tip:  Don’t get overwhelmed with the variety of travel insurance options available! We’ve created an ultimate guide to buying the best travel insurance to help simplify the process. You may also have travel coverages and benefits offered by your credit card .

While it’s unlikely that you’ll find Intrepid Travel promo codes on third party websites, Intrepid does frequently feature offers for specific destinations or tours that need a push. You’ll also find that booking well in advance can provide savings of 10% to 15% . No promo codes are required to obtain these deals; just visit the Travel Deals page on the Intrepid website.

The heart of Intrepid Travel is in its tour leaders — friendly locals, born and bred in the countries you’re discovering. Who better to show you around? Intrepid’s are some of the best in the industry and are consistently praised in customer reviews for the knowledge and personality they bring to the table.

If you’re thinking about your first tour, or have traveled with another tour operator before, don’t hesitate to give Intrepid a go. You’ll have the most extensive choice of tours and destinations of any operator and the comfort of knowing that you’re traveling with a company committed to having a positive impact on the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is intrepid travel a good company.

Intrepid Travel is well-reviewed across many of the major review sites. Most recently, many customers have taken to these sites to negatively review Intrepid’s cancellation and refund policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. But overall, the actual tours are highly reviewed.

Where is Intrepid Travel based?

Intrepid was founded in Australia and has offices in Melbourne, Toronto, London, and New York.

Which is better, Intrepid or G Adventures?

Intrepid Travel and G Adventures are very similar in their product offerings, both offering a wide range of destinations and tour types. Intrepid has over 1,000 tours to over 100 counties, so it does exceed G Adventures’ 700 tours, if range is a factor.

Price-wise, both operators are pretty much on par with each other, but if you are comparing a similar itinerary, do check what inclusions are featured as some Intrepid packages include more bang for your buck than G Adventures.

Are flights included in Intrepid Tours?

Flights are not included in the tour prices you see on the Intrepid website, however, you can book your flights through Intrepid. If you book your flights independently, you need to make sure you arrive in time for your welcome meeting on the first day of your tour.

What age group travels with Intrepid?

All age groups are catered for with Intrepid. 18-29s Tours and Family Tours are the only types that come with age restrictions; anyone else is free to join the other tours. Children over the age of 15 are permitted on most tours, provided they are accompanied by an adult over 18.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Intrepid Travel

Independently owned by its founders, Intrepid is a collection of three tour operator brands and 25 destination management companies united by the vision of Changing the Way People See the World. For more than 30 years, Intrepid has been taking small groups to travel the local way, on real life experiences that give back to the places and people we visit. As this style of travel has caught on, Intrepid has grown to now offer more than 2,700 trips to more than 120 countries and on all seven continents. We cater for all ages, budgets, and appetites for adventure through Intrepid Travel, Peregrine Adventures, and Urban Adventures. Globally renowned as a leader in responsible travel, in 2018 Intrepid became the world’s largest travel business to be certified B-Corp, joining a growing community of businesses looking beyond the bottom line. We have been a carbon-neutral business since 2010, carbon offsetting our trips on behalf of customers. In 2020, we aim to become climate positive. That means we’ll be removing more carbon from the atmosphere than we create as a business. By doing this, we will create greater environmental benefits by removing even more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere while continuing to decarbonize through reductions in emissions from our trips and operations. Our not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation has raised over AUD $9M for more than 130 charities around the world by matching traveler donations dollar-for-dollar.

When and why did you begin your impact tourism program?

Responsible travel has always been at the heart of who we are as a business. Over the years we have instigated many different responsible travel initiatives including focuses on animal welfare, gender equality, child protection, responsible production, consumption & supply chain, and climate action.

One of key areas of focus when it comes to responsible travel is that of community-based tourism (CBT). CBT ensures community ownership and management of the tourism experience and ensures that the economic benefits of tourism stay within the community. CBT products showcase a local community’s heritage, cultural practices, and natural resources, and in this way offers an immersive and authentic experience for travelers. While we have included CBT experiences like homestays since Intrepid began, over the last five years we have made a commitment to not only working with existing CBT providers, but in playing a more active role in developing new CBT enterprises to benefit local communities.

We actively work with communities and a range of local partners to support the development of new CBT experiences in destinations that otherwise wouldn’t see the benefits of tourism. Then, when we visit the communities on our itineraries, our travelers have the opportunity to connect with the local people and make a positive impact.

Please provide brief examples of some of your most impactful projects.

Our CBT lodge in Myaing, Myanmar, exemplars our new approach to CBT. A joint project between Intrepid Group and the nonprofit organization ActionAid Myanmar, the CBT lodge was the first of its kind in Myanmar, created to give communities living in poverty from villages near Myaing the opportunity to earn an alternative income and grow as a community, while giving travelers from around the world a genuine insight into rural living in Myanmar.  

Our teams, along with ActionAid, helped shape the design of the lodge, identify tourism activities like hikes and cycle routes, source local guides and provide health and safety training. 

The lodge is also ideally situated, as tourists are able to visit all four villages by bicycle to gain insight into the life of local people and hear firsthand from a female leader from the village why the CBT project is so valuable to the community.  

Travelers also get to experience traditional cuisine made by local hands with local produce and contribute to preserving the environment by planting their own tree as a way of marking the memory of their visit. 

We include a two-night stay at the lodge on our signature Myanmar itinerary, Best of Myanmar. Since our travellers began staying there in January 2017, we have contributed over $150,000 USD in revenue.

The success of Myanmar inspired our business to seek out new opportunities to develop CBT around the world. In Vietnam, our team worked with the nonprofit Action on Poverty to create CBT in Da Bac, where we now include an overnight stay on four of our best-selling Vietnam itineraries. In Nepal, we worked with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and WWF to build a homestay network in the Madi Valley region.

Has your impact tourism program helped, hurt, or had no impact on your business?

At Intrepid our strategy is to grow with purpose. While impact tourism in some form has been part of our business since the very beginning, since we formalized our commitment to creating purpose beyond profit by becoming a certified B-Corp in 2018, we have had two record years of growth–in 2018 we saw 17 percent growth in revenue and in 2019 reported 21 percent growth in Total Transaction Value (TTV).

Vetting Process

How do you select projects.

There are many different factors that we take into consideration when embarking on a new CBT project. We are very aware that we’re a tour operator–small group adventure travel is our area of expertise, not community development–so we need to partner with the right organizations who have the appropriate expertise in this area. When we’re selecting projects, the suitability of the partner organization–what their existing relationship is with the community, what their values are, what role they’ll play in the implementation–is vital for success.

In looking at the viability of the project, our primary aim is to include the CBT initiative on our itineraries so we’re supporting them with revenue over the long-term and it’s imperative that it’s a great experience for the traveler. To determine whether it’s suitable, we need to assess the location – is it in an area where we already operate trips and where we expect demand to increase in the future? Does it complement the other experiences we already offer on that itinerary? Does it showcase the natural resources of that area? If it’s not a good experience for our travelers, then we are not able to include it on our itineraries as we will not be able to support the project over the long-term.  

At the heart of the CBT model is community empowerment and decision making when it comes to tourism. Of the most important factors is creating shared value and meeting the community’s needs and objectives. They need to have a genuine desire to welcome visitors. In terms of the community benefits, these can vary from project to project, but what’s generally common to all is providing an alternative source of income through tourism (and therefore helping to stop forced urban migration), empowering women and other disadvantaged groups, and preserving cultural practices and traditions.

What is the structure to ensure ongoing accountability?

Part of the requirements of our partnership agreements with the local NGO is the submission of regular reports, usually submitted quarterly, which allows us to see the progress made. Another important accountability mechanism is our travelers and tour leaders, who are regularly visiting these projects on our trips. They will provide feedback after every visit, which we’ll then communicate to the CBT enterprise to ensure continuous learning and improvement.

Employee Engagement

How are your employees and your company involved in the projects.

There are a few different mechanisms through which our employees and company are involved in the projects:

• Our local operations staff in-destination are heavily involved throughout the whole process, from initial research right through to training community members and monitoring.
• Our Global Responsible Team, including a dedicated CBT Manager, oversees our CBT initiatives on a global level, including vetting projects and monitoring and evaluation.
• Our tour leaders bring the positive benefits of CBT alive for our customers while they’re on a trip by telling the story of why Intrepid believes in CBT and how their stay makes a difference to local people.
• Our marketing and PR teams tell the story more broadly through press releases and media familiarization trips where journalists can experience the trip for themselves.

What have been staff reactions?

Staff reactions have been hugely positive. Our values and commitment to responsible travel are some of the main reasons listed by our employees as what they most enjoy about working for Intrepid.

Have you provided staff training to support your impact tourism program?

In February 2019, we took 13 different staff members from our offices around the world (Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, Croatia, China, Australia, Canada) to our CBT lodge in Myaing in order to help them learn about the model and better understand our approach. We also do extensive training with our tour leaders about CBT and our responsible travel ethos more generally, so they can communicate this to our customers on the ground.

Funding Model

How are funds raised from travelers.

Our CBT projects are not reliant upon raising funds from our travelers but are usually funded by a combination of a direct donation from our business, plus often additional funding from an NGO or government partner. Of course, once travelers have visited our CBT enterprises and seen the community benefits for themselves, they do often wish to donate which we encourage to do through The Intrepid Foundation.

How do you solicit donations?

Our tour leaders receive extensive training and how to talk to our travelers about what community-based tourism is and how they can be part of supporting these important initiatives. We also include information about donating on our website and in email communications to our customers.

Are donations tax deductible?

As an Australian-registered foundation, we are able to offer tax-deductible donations to Australian donors, but this is only applicable to certain projects – as many are small grassroots organizations that are not recognized in Australia as international charities.

Do project funds go into a separate account or to a foundation to ensure transparency and separation from business revenue? If not, what is your process to ensure financial accountability of donated funds?

Yes– any fundraising goes via The Intrepid Foundation which is a registered charity in Australia.

Visitor Engagement

Do travelers visit the project sites why or why not.

Yes – our travelers visiting our CBT sites is how we create impact, through bringing much-needed revenue to communities that are far off the typical tourist trails. Central to our initial analysis of any project is how accessible it is, what existing itineraries we might be able to include it on, and therefore how many customers we can bring there. While we are always sensitive to get the balance right in terms of how many travelers the CBT enterprise can host per week, month and year, in order for it to be successful we need to have a regular stream of visitors.

Being able to have a CBT experience on a trip is a wonderful way for us to illustrate our responsible travel ethos in a tangible way to our customers, while giving back to the communities where the CBT is based.

Do you offer opportunities for voluntourism and/or material donations? Why or why not?

Intrepid does not offer voluntourism programs for customers. Intrepid Travel is primarily a travel operator, and we believe that’s our strength. While we have some very long-standing and rich relationships with local communities, we believe communities seeking volunteers are best served by specialist agencies.

How is the impact tourism promoted or marketed to guests?

Community-based tourism forms part of our broader responsible travel program & policies. This is communicated during trips via tour leaders and through social media, blog posts, on our trip pages, and through PR activity.

What type of educational opportunities and/or materials do you give to travelers?

Via our tour leaders, we provide our customers with lots of information about the dos and don’ts of responsible travel. This is conveyed during the trip so that customers can learn on the ground and it is a continual educational piece for the customer.

We also have a wealth of material on our website and through blog posts about this topic, which we share through social media and other digital channels, including emails pre-trip and post-trip.

Community Perspectives

How do you ensure that your values and approach align with the community supported.

Our local operations team will visit the community and spend time with the local people there before we agree to a project. As we usually will work with a nonprofit partner, we also significantly rely on their expertise and experience in the community. Making sure that the community understands our objectives and has a genuine desire to welcome travelers into their lives is absolutely critical for the success of the project. We also want to ensure the community shares our values, for example our commitment to female empowerment and gender equality.  

How are you ensuring that your projects meet the most relevant needs of the community?

We absolutely rely on our nonprofit partners, for example ActionAid Myanmar, to work closely with us in shaping the CBT initiative to ensure it meets the needs of the community. While we will of course spend a significant amount of time in the community consulting with the local people, often the nonprofit has been working there for years previously, so they are in the best position to make sure the CBT fulfils the community’s needs.

Do you engage in ongoing dialogue with the local community? If so, how?

Yes – primarily through visits by our local operations (DMC) staff and our tour leaders when on trips.

Has there ever been a time when adjustments to your approach or project have needed to be made as a result of community feedback? Please explain how you were able to adapt.

In 2018, we saw a significant decline in our customer numbers to Myanmar overall as a result of the country’s ongoing Rohingya crisis, with a subsequent decline in the revenue we were able to supply to the CBT lodge.

In 2019, in order to better support the community we decided to increase the number of nights customers stay at the lodge from one to two nights which not only meant more revenue for the community, but a better customer experience with more time to relax and enjoy time spent there. 

Lessons Learned

Why do you feel your impact tourism program has been so successful.

Measuring success can be done in a number of different ways. From an impact point of view, we don’t just look at metrics like the number of livelihoods we support through CBT, or the amount of additional income that tourism brings to households. The qualitative data is also really important, which is not easy to capture in facts and figures – for example, the empowerment felt by the female CBT Lodge staff members. Customer feedback is also an essential element of what constitutes success, as CBT can only be sustainable over the long-term if its also a great customer experience and can sustain demand.  Usually the CBT experiences we include on our trips are listed by our customers as the highlight of their trip with us.

What challenges has your company faced in developing a successful program?

Our key challenge has been finding the right partners – those who offer complementary skills to our own, and who work in areas with a high tourism potential. We often come across opportunities to develop tourism in incredibly remote areas, which while we believe the end product and experience will be incredible for customers, we can’t guarantee the volume of travelers required to really drive significant revenue and therefore impact into the community.

Why do you feel it is important for the tourism industry to not only promote a produce but to provide environmental and community support?

Traveling responsibly by providing environmental and community support is crucial for long-term sustainability – it just makes good business sense. If local people don’t see the benefits from tourism, they will push back. As travel companies, we profit from taking our customers to beautiful destinations all over the world, so we also have a responsibility to protect these destinations from harm. Thankfully, the concept of sustainable tourism is becoming increasingly mainstream due to customer demand.

What would your advice be to another company that is hoping to establish a successful impact tourism program?

There are so many different avenues in which to pursue impact tourism, so it’s important to think about where your expertise lies – where can you add value through what you already do. Partnerships are crucial in terms of complementing your skill set. We would also suggest considering your destinations – what are the key issues there, and how might your product work to help solve them?

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Awards & Recognition: Our Myaing CBT Lodge in Myanmar was a finalist in the WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Awards in 2019 and has been certified by ASEAN as a ‘Gold Standard’ CBT enterprise.

For more information contact: Myvawny Costelloe, CBT Manager, [email protected] Websites: www.intrepidtravel.com/community-based-tourism

Photos courtsey of Intrepid Travel

This Impact Tourism Handbook was made possible by generous financial support from Elevate Destinations , Hilton , Holbrook Travel , and Overseas Adventure Travel .

Intrepid Travel In-depth Review: Are their tours any good? [2024]

A tour that offers trips where you can spread positive impacts to the place you're visiting ... Are they too good to be true? What are their pros and cons? Find out now.

Have you ever thought about the impacts you have when you're on your trip? The way you travel, through what transportation methods you take, how you engage with communities, and what you leave behind after the trip can have various impacts on the destination you traveled to. 

In this review, we bring to you a review of a travel agency that'll help you plan your next trip while making sure that you travel responsibly. Stick around and read the entire Intrepid Travel review to find out how you can make use of this service.

What is Intrepid Travel?

In 1988, two friends, Darrell and Manch, were traveling with friends in a truck in parts of Africa when they came to a realization. They realized that more people would enjoy traveling while minimizing impacts by talking to many travelers. That kickstarted the tour operator  Intrepid Travel .

Apart from presenting a travel itinerary, Intrepid Travel also guarantees their customers a responsible travel experience with them. In order to ensure responsibility while traveling, Intrepid Travel has partnered up with many global and local funds and organizations like Blue Carbon Lab and Eden Reforestation Project.

Intrepid Travel has its own foundation, which funds initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and work towards a sustainable future. 

How does Intrepid Travel work?

Intrepid Travel has a simple and user-friendly interface. You could insert basic information and get a ready-made travel itinerary or have a trip tailor-made based on your preferences.

Readymade trips 

Once you visit the Intrepid Travel website, you can search for itineraries based on your choice of destination and the date of travel. Intrepid Travel will provide you with a range of options to choose from based on the information provided. These options vary from  Premium, Best of,  to  Classic , etc. 

Alternatively, you could also select from various styles and themes and find ready-made trips. In order to look for themes, you have to click on the  Ways to travel  option on the panel at the top of the website. These themes include 18s to 29s, Active Adventures, Adventure Cruising, Cycling, Expeditions, Family, Festivals, Food,  Lonely Planet  Experiences, Polar, Retreats, Sailing, Short-Breaks, Urban Adventures, Walking and Trekking, and Wildlife. 

Personalized trips 

Travelers using Intrepid Travels can also select tailor-made trips from the themes section. In this, you can flexibly choose when and where you want to go and what you want to do because the ready-made itineraries from Intrepid can't be altered. 

You would be traveling with local leaders or travel guides from any travel themes or styles. They will guide you on everything and even deal with the logistics of traveling. With their extensive knowledge of local culture and environments, you will surely get an immersive traveling experience. The help of local leaders also makes group travels easier. 

How old do you have to be to travel with Intrepid?

If you are traveling without adult supervision, you have to be 18 years of age or above. Styles of travel include Premium, Comfort, Original, and Basix. Depending on the style, the provision of services varies, but you would still get the basic services, though. 

Although there aren't any readily available promo codes from Intrepid Travel, they almost always have deals on their website. If you aren't looking to travel anytime soon, you can check the discounts available on the website. If you are making some late plans, you can choose to look at the last-minute deals they have to offer.

What we like about Intrepid Travel

• Ready-made packages

Intrepid Travel makes your trips so much easier. Choosing from a specific style and/or theme is the best part of this. It allows you to select a trip that is to your liking and within your budget. The intersection of the style and theme gives you even more options. What's even more remarkable is that all the destinations, accommodation, food, and transportation are arranged for you as you reach your destination.

• Personalization

The thing with ready-made packages is that they don't have flexible arrival and departure dates. If you're someone who needs that freedom in traveling, tailor-made packages are just the thing for you. Even if you are the one who's deciding things, you wouldn't be the one spending time getting things together. Intrepid Travel and its local leaders will do everything for you. 

• Responsible travel

Responsible travel includes less carbon footprint, respect towards local cultures, and support for local communities. Your use of Intrepid Travel would contribute towards funding grassroots organizations, initiatives, and local communities. After all, responsible traveling isn't just where you'll be going; it's also on you as an individual traveler. Intrepid Travel adheres to COVID guidelines and ensures your safety.

While you aren't required to have travel insurance, Intrepid Travel will recommend travel insurance services, like World Nomads ,  if you think it's something you would like to have.

What's not-so-great about Intrepid Travel

• Complaints on service 

Intrepid Travel doesn't have a lot of bad reviews. But, we came across some complaints about low-quality accommodation, unreliable local guides, and poor service. Some negative reviews spoke of Intrepid Travel's delay/failure to process refunds during the pandemic. As always, it's important to know that no service is perfect, and there could be issues occasionally. 

Compared to traveling solo, heading on a group tour with companies like Intrepid is a bit more expensive because most travel logistics and planning are arranged for you. Also, when you travel with a group, there's a higher chance of spending on extra "group" activities. However, you may not necessarily enjoy all of them. In this regard, we think it's better to  backpack  solo if you are quite a seasoned traveler. 

Is Intrepid Travel Worth It?

Most of the past users have left satisfying reviews of Intrepid Travel. We also recommend it to travelers that want more out of your travel experience. We believe what they're offering is a great way to explore the world while maintaining a positive impact on the places you go!

You also have many other choices like  G Adventures ,  EF Ultimate Break , and  Under30Experiences  for guided group tours. So, do consider these options before you pick one! 

Our Rating: 4.6/5

• Tours that makes a positive impact
• Responsible travel (low footprint)
• Great tour packages
• All Inclusive
• Few complaints on quality of the tours
• Slightly expensive

If you're looking to plan your own trip.

Regardless of which tour guides you pick, you're definitely all set to make some memorable experiences. We believe that you'll have a better time by planning and going on a trip solo or with friends and family! After all, traveling at your own pace and your own determined budget is always a win.

If you're planning to travel with your friends or colleagues or any other group of people, Pilot might be able to help you out with it.

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Egypt Experience

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Experience the Land of the Pharaos
• See the Pyramides up close
• Sightseeing on a Nile River cruise
• Visit tombs in the Valley of the Kings
• Introduction
• Day 1 Cairo
• Day 2 Cairo
• Day 3 Alexandria
• Day 4 Alexandria - Cairo - Overnight Train
• Day 5 Aswan
• Day 6 Abu Simbel - Nile River Cruise
• Day 7 Nile River Cruise
• Day 8 Nile River Cruise
• Day 9 Luxor
• Day 10 Luxor
• Day 11 Cairo
• Day 12 Cairo

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Intrepid Travel

Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an adventure to the other side of the world. They travelled to Africa and without air conditioning on their modified truck, they filled it with supplies, some beer, a bunch of aviator sunglasses, and some friends. On that trip, they came up with the idea that perhaps others may be interested in this style of travel too. Just like that, Intrepid was born. Intrepid has come a long way since then, now giving over 100,000 travelers a year the opportunity to experience small group travel across all 7 continents. They use local transport, sleep in local accommodation from Cambodian stilt houses to Moroccan riads, and employ 100% local leaders. With three different travel styles including basix, original and comfort, themes ranging from cycling trips to family holidays, and itineraries crafted with the perfect balance of must-see sights and free time, Intrepid caters to every type of traveller no matter their age, budget or travel style. The company has grown but their mission remains the same: to change the way people see the world through sustainable, experience-rich travel

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.7
• Itinerary Excellent 4.4
• Guide Excellent 4.8
• Transport Excellent 4.5
• Accommodation Excellent 4.4
• Food Good 3.8
• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First

• AM Alan · 12th October 2019 Tour guide Walleed was very good. Very knowledgeable and helpful. We had mixed views about the trip. Obviously the history and monuments are wonderful. Accommodations and food were just okay. One real issue was the overnight train trip from Cairo to... Show more Trip date: September 2019
• KA Kim · 27th September 2019 Great tour covering all the sites in Egypt and our expectations were exceeded. Ahmed Elansary our tour leader was a fantastic guide who is passionate about Egypt, wanting to share his knowledge and was open minded to all our questions. Great group of... Show more Trip date: September 2019
• A Scott S · 18th September 2019 the way the tour was run and the amount of things we did Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Samantha S · 18th September 2019 i like it Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Douglas S · 18th September 2019 Great guide, good ittinery Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Bri K · 18th September 2019 we were able to see the best parts of egypt, it didn’t feel like we missed out on anything. Mohamed was the best tour guide and helped everyone feel comfortable and relaxed. Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Benjamin S · 18th September 2019 Because we saw some amazing things and our tour guide was awesome!! Trip date: December 2018 Review collected by Intrepid Travel

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• December 2025
• Sunday 26 May, 2024 Thursday 6 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out €2,795 See Similar Tours For These Dates

Space on this tour is not guaranteed. Book this tour to request your place and the operator will confirm availability.

• -20% Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 9 Jun, 2024 Thursday 20 Jun, 2024 English €2,795 €2,236 Confirm Dates
• Friday 5 Jul, 2024 Tuesday 16 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out €2,485 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• -20% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 12 Jul, 2024 Tuesday 23 Jul, 2024 English Filling Fast €2,485 €1,988 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 21 Jul, 2024 Thursday 1 Aug, 2024 English €2,485 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• Get Instant Confirmation Friday 2 Aug, 2024 Tuesday 13 Aug, 2024 English €2,485 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• Get Instant Confirmation Friday 16 Aug, 2024 Tuesday 27 Aug, 2024 English Filling Fast €2,485 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 25 Aug, 2024 Thursday 5 Sep, 2024 English €2,795 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h

Frequently Asked Questions

While Intrepid is the tour operator, they partner with local companies in order to offer in-depth, exciting optional excursions for the tour during the free time periods. The tour itself is operated by Intrepid and you will be accompanied by a professional Intrepid guide with you for the duration of the tour.

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currency £ Egyptian Pound Egypt

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Egypt. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Egypt. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Egypt. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Egypt. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an infected area for Egypt. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 22nd July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 22nd July 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Intrepid Travel - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Explore Croatia

Health Safety +

• Dubrovnik's charms reach far beyond the famed beautiful city walls. Discover the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast and maybe cruise to Lokrum Island where a botanical garden, Benedictine monastery and excellent swimming spots await.
• Indulge in specialty foods, local wine and some tranquil swimming spots on the island of Korcula – a quiet escape full of vineyards, olive groves and sleepy villages.
• Spend a full day exploring the green island of Mljet – with its small seaside villages, lush national park trails, shimmering waters and largely untouched environment, you’ll never want to leave!
• Hvar Island seems to have it all - Renaissance architecture, beautiful beaches, lush green landscapes and excellent Dalmatian cuisine.
• Split is a haven of relaxation and culture. Unwind with a walk along the waterfront promenade and take time to explore the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Humana Zagreb. Donations help provide job opportunities and education programs in sustainable fashion and textiles for people with disabilities.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• High Adventure
• Local Immersion & Homestays

Destinations

Attractions.

• Diocletian's Palace
• Historic sightseeing

Trip includes

• Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport and entry to sites)
• Dubrovnik - City Walls Walk
• Korcula Island hike
• Authentic dinner at Zrnovo village family owned restaurant
• Mljet Island - Day Trip to Mljet Island National Park
• Mljet Island - St Mary Island Benedictine Monastery
• Hop on hop off boat taxi ticket
• Split - City Walking Tour with Local Guide
• Split - Diocletian's Palace

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There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there is so much to see in Split and the surrounding area, such as Salona, Trogir or Sibenik, you may want to consider extending your time in Split. Just speak to your booking agent.

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Intrepid Travel Reviews & Ratings

Dinko pervan was an excellent leader; he.

Dinko Pervan was an excellent leader; he spoke knowledgeably and not too much :) I liked the format of the trip where we were given an introduction to a new locatio...

1. Excellent itinerary 2. Excellent logistics/transport to destinations 3.

1. Excellent itinerary 2. Excellent logistics/transport to destinations 3. Excellent trip guide

I like the Intrepid style of trip

I like the Intrepid style of trip where you are not organised all the time

Love small group tours, the free time

Love small group tours, the free time and travelling on loca...

The trip was actually split into two

The trip was actually split into two trips which made it difficult to develop a good rapport with the rest of the group & the tour leaders. We were just starting...

Other Intrepid Travel Reviews

We joined the intrepid “real italy food….

We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information....

Audrey Tavares

Central Asia Explorer

This was my third trip with Intrepid, and I'll continue to plan future trips with them. I choose Intrepid to travel to parts of the world where I don't feel comforta...

Do not book a tour with Intrepid

Do not book a tour with Intrepid. Their “policy” on deposits is unreasonable, inflexible and downright thieving. I booked a tour in India with them over seven month...

See all Other Intrepid Travel reviews

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Tour operator, intrepid travel, the intrepid travel experience.

If you’re looking for adventure, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 25 years, we’ve been taking small groups of travelers on unforgettable trips around the world. What makes them unforgettable? Take a look for yourself and discover the Intrepid experience.

Our travelers have three styles of tour to choose from: Basix, Original and Comfort. Each has a different level of inclusions and accommodation, but all have unforgettable real life experiences as part of the package. Travellers can also choose themed trips, such as Family, Sailing or Food, to suit their interests.

Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

Why Intrepid?

•   Small groups - average of 10 people per trip
•   Sustainability - pioneers for the industry
•   Local leaders - authentic perspectives
•   Local transport - get close and personal
•   Local accommodation - experience real living
•   Intrepid travelers - like-minded companions 

Intrepid Travel has come a long way since its beginnings in 1989. From two university friends, a typewriter and a kitchen desk, it is now a proud member of The Intrepid Group, taking over 100,000 travelers every year.

Intrepid Travel is part of The Intrepid Group of companies, alongside leading small group adventure companies Peregrine, Urban Adventures and PEAK DMC.

Despite growing into a global business with over 1,000 staff based all over the world and over 800 different trips across every continent, we’ve remained devoted to the same grassroots values and responsible travel philosophies that we had at the very beginning.

On every trip we operate and in every interaction we have with a client, supplier or local, we live our core values everyday:

• Integrity – Doing the right thing
• Responsible – Think global, act local
• Growth – Stakeholders in our own success
• Innovation – Thriving on new ideas and embracing change
• Fun – It’s engrained into who we are and what we do
• Passion – We are inspired by the work we do and the trips we offer

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Associations

About Travelstride

Find your perfect trip, travel confidently, accommodation, transportation & flights, transportation & flights.

Finish point

• Art Hotel Annex
• Slobode St. 41
• Phone: +38 521302302

Alternate Finish point

• For trips departing on the following dates, use this finish point.
• 13 Jul 2024 (ZMSF240713), 20 Jul 2024 (ZMSF240720), 27 Jul 2024 (ZMSF240727), 03 Aug 2024 (ZMSF240803), 17 Aug 2024 (ZMSF240817), 28 Aug 2024 (ZMSF240828), 11 Sep 2024 (ZMSF240911)
• Hotel Globo
• Lovretska 18
• Phone: +385 21481111

Become a member

• Save up to $700 per person
• Access members-only specials
• Personalize trip recommendations

Slovenia to Macedonia Real Food Adventure

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Intrepid Travel   Reviews

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Reviews 4.3.

1,945 total

Most relevant

Intrepid delivers!

My son and I had the holiday of a lifetime with Intrepid in Vietnam. So many things could have gone wrong but they all went right! Intrepid had thought about every detail of the trip before I had a chance to: activities we would enjoy, great restaurants to eat in, most convenient mode of travel...the list goes on...and on. We learned so much about the country we were travelling in as well. We were given fascinating accounts of history, geography, economy. But it was the tiny details which peppered the briefings that made the country come alive. Our guide was fantastic. The whole experience was perfectly balanced and so much fun!

Date of experience : March 30, 2024

Reply from Intrepid Travel

Thank you so much for that awesome feedback from your trip. Vietnam is a truly magical place with so much history and beauty. We are so glad that you had a great experience with your son, creating memories that will last a lifetime! We can't wait to travel with you both again soon!

Overall experience after 4 trips with Intrepid

I have been on four different trips with Intrepid in diffrent countries and they have all been great. They are well organized, the tour leaders are considerate of the group and you get too see much more things than you would have been able to do on your own. On two of the trips there where some thing that did not go as planned, but in both cases the tour leader did the best they could to resolve the problem. Housing is genrelly simple and transports can be rough, so if you like comfort and luxury select another travel agency. But if you are up for a little adventure Intrepid is the way to go. (Review is based on trips to Peru, Mexico, Croatia and Morocco).

Date of experience : January 01, 2024

Thank you so much Emma for both your review and your continued support as a repeat traveller! We can't wait to see where you go next!

My trip to Peru was fabulous

My trip to Peru was fabulous. It was not just that Peru has many stand out scenic spots and places like Machu Picchu and Lk Titicaca that made it so wonderful. What really sealed it for me was the best tour guide ever in Holger. He was not only well organised and an expert on his home country but very kind and considerate to all our group.

Hi Margaret, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us. It sounds like an amazing trip! Peru truly is a country full of incredible sights and rich history, and it’s great to hear that Holger made your experience even more special. A knowledgeable and considerate tour guide can really enhance a journey, making it unforgettable. We can't wait to welcome you back on another adventure!

Best vacation ever

I’ve just had the most amazing holiday ever with Intrepid. I was so impressed with how organised the trip to Vietnam was. Our tour leader made everything happen effortlessly. The accommodations provided exceeded my expectations, the food was stunning and the experiences will last a life time. Whether your travelling solo like I was, or with family, friends or a partner, I can highly recommend choosing Intrepid. I plan on booking another trip with them soon.

Date of experience : May 16, 2024

Hi Darren! Thank you so much for taking the time to write this amazing review - it really sounds incredible! We are so glad to hear you had such a fantastic experience in Vietnam with Intrepid. It’s always reassuring to know that our company can make everything seamless and enjoyable. We can wait to welcome you back on a new adventure!

Terrible trip, no support, over priced and not be be recommended.

We booked the Sapa Adventure trip that started in Hanoi. The local Intrepid Hanoi guide was disorganised and took us to a local restaurant with rats in it, and we had a problem at the train station as our bookings hadn't been properly confirmed. The train cabin was dirty and disgusting and Intrepid were not able to help change cabins. The other people in our party were able to upgrade their cabin to first class, which we were not given the option to. We eventually got off the train due to the very poor standards and no support, even though our guide said the train would be international standard, which it was not. When we got off the train Intrepid were again not able to help and so we couldn't join any of the trip. We organised to go to Sapa ourselves in the end which was much better and cheaper, as this trip is very over priced. I wouldn't recommend anyone to use this trip. Intrepid refused to take accountability of the situation or pay any compensation. It's a shame as I've used Intrepid a few times before and had good trips, but this one was very poor, and so I won't use them ever again.

Date of experience : May 16, 2023

Thank you for your candid review, Charlie. We are sorry to hear that this trip fell short of your expectations. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our Customer Care team on [email protected] so we can investigate further.

Food adventure of Sri Lanka

Our recent Food adventure of Sri Lanka was excellent. The tour included a good mix of experiencing the different types of food from Sri Lanka and seeing and enjoying the sights the country has to offer. Our guide was very accomodating and flexible, catering to the different needs of our group. We had a range of transportation from a mini bus to a scenic journey through tea plantations. This was a trip I would recommend.

Date of experience : January 02, 2024

Thank you sharing your experience with us, Deanne. We are so pleased to hear that you found your Sri Lanka Real Food Adventure to be a great variety of sightseeing and trying different foods along the way with a tour leader who was accommodating and flexible to meet the needs of the group. We look forward to welcoming you on another Intrepid adventure in the not so distant future.

We did an Intrepid trip to Cambodia and…

We did an Intrepid trip to Cambodia and to Thailand- both were excellent. All the activities were wonderful, the staff were helpful, kind and informative at each attraction. We highly recommend Intrepid travel for their quality of service and taking off any stress from the holiday.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Wendy of your time in Cambodia and Thailand. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the activities and that all staff you encountered were helpful and kind. We look forward to welcoming you on another Intrepid Adventure very soon. All the best, Intrepid Travel

Easy to book with

Easy to book with, very helpful and quick to answer any questions that I had. The tour group was nice and small which I enjoyed, it was a maximum of 12 people.

Date of experience : February 01, 2024

Hi Prineesa! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your comments with us. We can't wait to welcome you back on your next adventure!

Classic Peru - great way to see the Peruvian highlights in a small group

I joined the Classic Peru trip as part of a longer trip to South America. Desi the guide was great, group size of 10 was perfect and it was a great way to see all the highlights with travel organised for you. Hotels ranged from great in Cusco ( location and atmosphere) to perfectly acceptable. Homestay in lake Titicaca was an additional attraction and as we were at altitude for big chunks of the holiday it was great to see Desi checking in with us all healthwise throughout the trip. Some lovely restaurant recommendations too. Whilst full on also glad we had a day spare in Cusco which msny of us used for Rainbow mountain. Highly recommend, I was travelling by myself so nice social element too

Date of experience : April 13, 2024

Hi Sandra! We're so glad you had a wonderful time on your trip! Thank you so much for the kind words, and I sincerely hope we can welcome you on another adventure soon!

Great customer support response

We have a wonderful trip to Botswana Namibia and South Africa apart from one lot of accommodation which was well below standard. We gave feedback on our return and Nick from the customer care team came back to us quickly. We were given a £200 refund each which we gratefully accepted. Whilst that accommodation disappointed us I would have no hesitation in booking with Intrepid again because of their response. Thanks Nick 👍🏼

Date of experience : March 14, 2024

Hi Emer, we are so pleased to hear that you had a wonderful time on your trip despite the accommodation issues, and that Nick was able to address your concerns. We are accountable when things don't go to plan and we will always ensure your feedback is taken on board by our local teams and product team! We are delighted to hear that you would travel with Intrepid again in the future, and we hope to welcome you on to another adventure soon :)

Family death and no customer care

Due to the death of my father I could not take my scheduled trip and wished to postpone. Intrepid would not allow this and showed no compassion nor customer care in their callous decision. I lost my trip money paid including a single supplement. My airline refunded my ticket, no questions. Note that I have travelled with them and an affiliated company, Imaginative Traveller, to Thailand, India, Cambodia, Cuba, Costa Rica and Egypt. I do not recommend them. Rescheduling two weeks in advance due to a death should not be an issue.

Date of experience : March 31, 2024

Lisa, we are so sorry for your loss and would like to send you our condolences. We do have a compassionate policy in place to support our customers, and I can see you have been liaising with our reservations team over this. Our reservations team will follow up with you to ensure you are receiving the support you need during this difficult time.

Our Mini Sahara Tour was fabulous

Our Mini Sahara Tour was fabulous! Our guide and driver made us comfortable and they were very knowledgable. No time were we rushed and were able to see many interesting spots along the way. Our guide, Hamid Boulmane, was great!, he even arranged a birthday cake for my partner along with music and dancing. The camel-sunset ride into the desert was certainly eventful. One of the camels I was on bit me, so for revenge I ate a camel burger....delicious! a good friend went on a 7 day trip with Intrepid TraveI and highly recommended INTREPID TRAVEL and so do we.

Date of experience : January 24, 2024

Hi Sara! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your amazing comments regarding your time in Morocco. It is fantastic to learn that you had a fabulous experience, and that our tour offered you the best tour leader- Hamid. We can't wait to welcome you back on your next adventure!

amazing tour of cuzco/machu picchu

I was in the Machu Picchu by train short break trip a couple weeks ago. This was a solo trip and my first time going with Intrepid. This was an absolutely amazing trip!! The thing I most appreciate about Intrepid on this trip was that for some parts I was the only person in the group excursion yet the company did not cancel on me, I was still able to enjoy the adventure on the itinerary even if it was on my own with the guide. The main attraction - Machu Picchu tour was amazing, I got there bright and early and the local tour guide was very knowledgeable, friendly, and patient with the tour and explanations of everything! I did have an issue with one of the hotels I was placed at. The condition of the room/hotel was not up to standard and I did not feel comfortable. However, upon reaching out to the customer service department, I was genuinely happy with their response. They took my concerns very seriously, answered any and all of the questions I had as to why I was placed there, and were very kind about the whole issue. Will definitely consider travelling with them going forward!

Date of experience : April 17, 2024

Hi Tanrima! Thank you for your wonderful review and for choosing Intrepid for your first solo adventure! We're positively thrilled to hear that you had an absolutely amazing time and your visit to Machu Picchu was nothing short of amazing. We understand that accommodation is an essential part of any journey, and we apologize for any inconvenience caused by the hotel room not meeting your expectations. However, we're so pleased to hear that our teams were able to address these concerns promptly and effectively with care and understanding. Thank you again for your kind words and for considering travelling with us again in the future! We hope to welcome you on another unforgettable adventure soon.

My trip to Vietnam traveling with…

My trip to Vietnam traveling with Intrepid was amazing first time I've ever traveled alone I always felt safe,I did 2 adventure first was to Sapa for 5 days. Soso my Guide was good I enjoyed every bit of it.The Vietnam south bound tour our guide Doan was amazing always their to help. I would highly recommend the trip if you're looking for adventure culture and amazing street food to 5star get it all in one. When I do my next adventure I would definitely travel with Intrepid

Date of experience : March 02, 2024

Hi Wendy, thank you for taking the time to post a review and for your recommendation. It’s wonderful to know that being your first time travelling alone you had an amazing adventure whilst enjoying all that Vietnam has to offer. We hope to welcome you on another of our adventures soon.

It was a well organised professional…

It was a well organised professional set up, all the sites and important history well delivered by the team, nice hotels nice beaches, great safari (although had to mis the one i really wanted to do cuz of the place being flooded) really really really enjoyed "The Best of Sri-Lanka" if you like the Adventure, you like this trip

Thank you Dan for sharing your experience with us on your recent Best of Sri Lanka trip. We are delighted to hear that you found the trip to be well organised and professionally delivered but we are sorry to hear that you missed out on a safari due to weather. We hope you are able to join us on another adventure soon. All the best, Intrepid Travel

Premium Egypt in Depth

We just came back from Premium Egypt in Depth. Family of 4. Absolutely incredible experience. Everyday was a wow. Our guide, Ahmed, was fantastic and we felt very taken care of every step of the way. Gor to see and experience everything we wanted and more. Felt completely safe. Small group is amazing way to go. Can't say enough good things, far exceeded our expectations.

Date of experience : March 01, 2024

Hello Scarlet! Thank you so much for sharing your incredible experience. It’s great to know how much you enjoyed your tour and that your leader did such a great job. Also, that you were able to experience the amazing history and culture that Egypt has to offer. We can't wait to welcome you back on your next adventure!

An amazing experience

I was an fill-in for this trip having never had any desire to travel to India but always open for anything. This trip taught be so much about the country, the history & the people & I returned with a completely different opinion on it. I am so glad I went. There were some downs but mainly ups and although I wouldn't rush back, I think the trip was hugely interesting & worthwhile & would definitely travel with this company again.

Date of experience : February 22, 2024

Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Catherine. It sounds as if India took you by surprise and you learnt lots about this incredible country. We are pleased to hear that you found the trip interesting and worthwhile and that you would happily travel with Intrepid again.

Back from Everest Base Camp trek and…

Back from Everest Base Camp trek and what an incredible experience. A massive thank you to our guide Gyaljen Sherpa who made every day outstanding. The knowledge and stories of the mountains will never be forgotten and I hope to return and experience the mountains again. The trip was planned to an exceptional standard and whilst the accommodation standards are what we are used to, we soon came used to the teahouses and each one was great in its own way. The food was pretty exceptional along the way and the trekking was such fun with a great group of people. Some were hard days but the feeling of accomplishment made up for it and the views in the morning when you wake up more than made up for the cold nights and dubious toilets. Thank you Intrepid and your guide and our porters made this trip so special for us

Date of experience : April 01, 2024

Hi Lee and Nicola, thank you for your lovely review! We are thrilled to hear of your experience, and that your guide as well as your porters were a benefit to your group. We are so pleased to know of your accomplishment of 'conquering' such a trip- bravo! We know it is not easy. We hope to see you along with us in future, and thanks again for your review. Stay well.

Policy of NO REFUNDS

Our problem was not with the tour we were thrown off, or the staff but with Intrepid Travel administrators. We were booted off the tour for ill-health but were refused a refund. There was little communication at the time of this no refund policy and our Travel Insurance were expected to give the refund but refused.

Date of experience : February 13, 2024

We are sorry to hear that you fell unwell whilst on tour. We are unable to locate your booking from the review, however, we trust our Customer Care team are already likely in communication with you, however if not please reach out to [email protected] with your booking number and name.

Intrepid Premium China avoid !!

There is a common theme on this site many people from different trips have expressed their disappointment about “Premium” I am adding to the number. So, if you’re thinking of booking a Premium trip with Intrepid do your research and read the reviews in this section. Premium is a price paid for above and beyond some basic or intrinsic value. This trip was not on any level above and beyond basic. Intrepid Response from Jacky “Value can be a difficult topic to address, as people's perceptions of value will differ.” It was an awful experience of eating in the must basic of cafes. We were not even allowed to order our food!!! The establishments could not even offer alcoholic beverages. What’s Premium about that? I came on a Premium holiday and expected premium food premium establishments with wine lists etc. I would have been better off booking a standard trip and we could decide where we ate. And order our own choice of dishes! We were on holiday and eating in these places was just plain awful and miserable. Intrepid response from Jacky "Our guides prioritize the safety and well-being of the entire group, which may sometimes limit dining options. " “It's disappointing to hear that the quality of meals and dining establishments did not meet your expectations. Our Premium style of travel is indeed designed to offer a higher standard of service and provide travellers with memorable experiences.” “Disappointing”? They were in back streets I would not venture to walk down on my own. Dietary restrictions, hygiene and health would be more likely to be compromised in establishments like these. “Our Premium style” did not offer a higher standard of service, your “design” is flawed. Premium China offers “first class” travel around China. So misleading it was ordinary minibus that on some days you could smell the cigarette smoke of the driver who had been waiting for us. I wrote to Intrepid to ask what was Premium about this trip. Intrepid Jacky response “As part of our Premium tours – while you state that intrinsic value is not accounted for- the experience of your guide does”. Our guide badgered us to rate her for 5 stars as she wouldn’t get her bonus. This was not an exceptional guide. She was a nice lady but that’s it. When we challenged her that we would like to order our own food she said she was afraid we would go over budget. I said tell us the budget and we will pay the difference. She refused. “Handpicked accommodation”, including Scaffolding and maintenance working going on so we had to use back entrance? I have travelled a lot in Asia the hotels were just run of the mill nothing premium. Intrepid Jacky response “We understand that the trip did not meet your expectations, and we sincerely apologize for any disappointment this may have caused. Your feedback is appreciated, and we will use it to make necessary improvements for future travellers.” How does that compensate me? The holiday was nearly £4000 and they offerd me a derisory £175.00 in compensation, so they accepet it wasn’t Premium but that’s all they were prepared to pay in recognition of that! I was so angry how bad this trip was I really want my money back as I was mis sold a holiday on a flawed and misleading concept of Premium quality. "We can see that you have been in communication with our Customer Care team who have been addressing your concerns. Should you wish to discuss anything further, they are available to assist" They closed the case!!! they never addressed my concerns largely ignored them.

Date of experience : March 16, 2024

Hi Gary and thanks for your candid review. We're very disappointed to read that your trip to China fell short of your expectations. We can see that you have been in communication with our Customer Care team who have been addressing your concerns. Should you wish to discuss anything further, they are available to assist.