Expeditions

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

An Expedition style trip is one that visits distant and often overlooked destinations with the idea of taking 'adventure travel' to a whole 'nother level. These trips will likely include active activities like hiking as well as community-based activities, local village visits and traditional festivals.

Think trips in remote countries, meals cooked by local families and cultural practices you'll never have heard of but won't easily forget.  

Expedition trips may feature a variety of authentic accommodation experiences, including camping, multishare and homestays. Due to the nature of the destinations these trips visit, the choice of accommodation can be limited, but just remember - it's all part of the adventure. 

You can enjoy Expedition trips with a reasonable level of fitness, however, some trips may have included or optional activities that fall under a higher physical rating. Read your trip itinerary carefully and communicate any concerns you may have to your leader as soon as possible - you can always opt out of any activities that you're not comfortable with during your trip. 

Expedition trip itineraries can also be faster-paced (multiple 1 night stops) and include long-haul overland travel so keep that in mind when choosing the right trip for you. 

What you should pack and how much you should pack will differ depending on which countries your Expedition trip visits. You will be expected to carry your own bag, so it's a good idea to opt for luggage you can easily lift and move around. We've found that keeping your bag weight under 10kg/22lb is manageable for most.

You should always pack comfortable walking shoes, plenty of layers (such as long-sleeve tops, cardigans, jumpers and coats), waterproof clothing and a day bag/backpack for day trips and activities. 

For more detailed information on packing, refer to the Essential Trip Information section of your Expedition.

The gear and equipment required will differ depending on which Expedition trip you take. We will provide mandatory equipment necessary for planned activities, but you are responsible for preferred materials such as walking poles and hiking boots.  

Please refer to the Packing section of your Expedition's Essential Trip information section for more details.

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their tour. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

Yes! Our trips are led by experienced local leaders trained to run Expedition trips, so you can rest assured you’re in safe hands. The best and safest way to experience a new place is with someone who lives there. 

Accommodation Safety Standards are regularly checked and monitored by our local operators. Activities include a short safety briefing with an option to opt out of the activity at your own discretion and each leader is First Aid trained and qualified.  

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.