Travel Policy

Please also read the Conditions of Sale.

INCLUSIVE ITINERARIES
We offer two or three pre-designed packages per country. The price covers the itinerary as described, but excludes the flights from and to Europe. Some itineraries and departure dates are fixed. These are ideal for the individual traveller who wants to join a small group ( typically 4 to 12 people). If less than 4 people are interested, it won't be cancelled, but a surcharge might be applied.
MODULES
These are individual journeys and adventures (called modules). Each describes the places visited and the activities included or on offer. You can book each module on its own to complete your own itinerary, or just ask us to design a package tailored to your wishes.
TAILORMADE HOLIDAYS
All of our journeys, the inclusive packages and the modules, are designed for individuals and groups (families, friends, associations and companies). If you prefer a private journey, we will design an entirely customised itinerary and study with you the feasibility of realising your dream within your budget.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Outdoors activities, such as hiking, diving, canoeing, climbing or rafting, considered leisure activities in Europe, are more adventurous sports when practised in a different environment. Most activities are suitable for beginners as well as the more experienced. Some of the activities require official qualifications (scuba diving, paragliding ....). Initiation courses are available for beginners. For high altitude activities, we always recommend acclimatisation. This way, your body gets used to the altitude and your endurance benefits. We use the following difficulty rating: Easy: Short walks and a low gradient of altitude. For everybody who leads a reasonably active life. Requires no special preparation. Moderate: 4-6 hours walking per day and a moderate gradient of altitude. Some previous experience beneficial, but within the capabilities of everybody who leads a normal active life. Some trips might contain some strenuous days. Travelling conditions might not be the best at all times. For those enjoying a good health and condition. Requires some toning up before joining. Strenuous: Adventures, involving more than 6 hours walking per day, and a high gradient of altitude (900m per day and more). Travelling conditions can be relatively strenuous. Some unexpected events might occur, especially in remote regions. Stamina is important as well as fitness. Extreme: Include long walks at high altitude and in severe environmental conditions. For the very fit and experienced.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Travelling does not always mean undergoing strenuous efforts. The discovery of the land, culture, history and the traditions of its people, are important factors. Some of our modules are specially designed to achieve this purpose. All our inclusive packages include cultural aspects. Our guides are specialists of the country they live in. They will help you discover all the current and hidden aspects of the places you travel to. Remark : Many journeys include both outdoor and cultural activities. Some adventurous expeditions lead you to important archaeological sites, far away from the beaten track. Others offer you a unique opportunity to experience a completely different culture.
SPIRITUAL JOURNEYS
Spiritual journeys are cultural journeys, during which you have the opportunity to participate and learn about the ancient traditions and beliefs, that are still a way of life for indigenous people. Shamanism and traditional healing journeys belong to this category. They are designed for anybody eager to learn more about the country and its people, their beliefs and traditions, rituals and practices, use of medicinal plants etc. Through them, one acquires a greater appreciation for and an understanding of the country and its people. They offer a unique opportunity for personal development.
AIR TRAVEL
Transatlantic flights are not included in any package. You can make your own flight arrangements, or request us to take care of them. We can also book domestic flights, not included in the itinerary.
GUIDES
There is no permanent tour escort except where stated. All clients are met and accompanied by our local representatives. Highly specialised and qualified guides lead our guided journeys. If required, we can arrange a permanent general guide for you. All of the guides are multilingual, and used to accompany Europeans.
FIRST CLASS, TOURIST CLASS & ECONOMY CLASS
Some packages and modules offer you the choice between First Class, Tourist Class and Economy Class. First Class implies better accommodations and, if available, private services. Tourist Class journeys are more economic and use regular tourist facilities. Economy Class uses economy accommodation.
ACCOMMODATION
Different types of accommodation are used within the trips. The trip defines the standards and level of sophistication that vary with local conditions. Emphasis is on typical hotels with local character, offering a good level of comfort. We sometimes combine hotels with simple pensions or guesthouses. In remote areas accommodation may be basic or in tents.
MEALS
Meals are not included unless stated. This allows you to choose your own food according to your taste and budget. In places without restaurant facilities, meals are inclusive.
TRANSPORTATION
Land travel is provided in accordance with the program. However, sometimes a specific mode of travel may have to be changed. We aim to minimise the effect of these changes, as well as the delays brought about by flights, weather conditions, politics, etc... We cannot be held responsible for the results of such changes. Long distances are normally covered by air. Bus, train, private coaches or expedition vehicles are used on shorter distances. Journeys into remote areas offer you the opportunity to travel by canoe, horse or simply by foot.
PRICING
Each itinerary describes fully what is included. It would be easy and unethical to publish a bare minimum itinerary with minimum services at a rock-bottom price. All our packages and modules are designed as dream-journeys. Prices quoted never include flights to and from Europe, travel insurance (mandatory), visa procurement, overseas airport taxes or tipping.