Mix & Match: Norway's Rail & Fjords

• 7 nights in 2 to 4-star accommodation
• Breakfast daily and 2 dinners
• Scenic rail journey on the Bergen Railway and the Flåmsbana
• Fjord cruising along the Aurlandsfjord and Sognefjord
• Guided Bergen food and culture walk
• Luggage transfer from Oslo to Bergen
• Pre-arranged rail and fjord transport throughout
• Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary 

• Oslo – City exploration
• Oslo to Myrdal – Bergen Railway
• Myrdal to Flåm – Flåmsbana railway
• Flåm to Balestrand – Aurlandsfjord cruise
• Balestrand – Fjordside village stay
• Balestrand to Bergen – Sognefjord fast boat
• Bergen – Bryggen quarter
• Bergen – Guided food and culture walk

Optional tours
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

• Discover Oslo City Tour (Day 3) - $99 per person

• Fjord Cruise Bergen – Mostraumen (Day 7) - $131 per person

Optional tours can be selected during the booking process, or once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding

Pre/Post Tour Accommodation
Pre and post tour accommodation is not available on this tour.

Upgrades

Not available

Airport Transfers

Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

Bedding Configuration

Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Single travellers

When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:

1 - Single Supplement

By paying an additional $800.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.

Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers. 

2- Shared Room with a known friend

If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with them and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

Triple Share

Not available

Payment Information
Secure your trip with a $56.63 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.

Instalment Schedule:

Starting Point

Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation, which will be provided approximately 14–30 days before departure, for your confirmed hotel list.

If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.

Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in; however, this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.

Note: If you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.

Arrival Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.
As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. These must be booked at least 70 days prior to departure.
To make your own way to your hotel from the airport, it is recommended to use taxis booked from an official taxi booking desk at the airport, or alternatively you can use ride share apps such as Uber or Bolt. The Flytoget airport express train and airport buses also run frequently into central Oslo.
If you're having any problems finding the hotel, please ring the hotel directly or you can phone our customer support team for on-tour assistance.

Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal

Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice.

Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.

When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider.

In Case of Emergency

Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it is essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative so they can take immediate action to address the problem and minimise any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

If your local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction, please request that the matter be escalated to their direct manager for further assistance.

When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this information on arrival during your welcome meeting.

Finishing Point

Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14–30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list.

If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.

Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am–12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments exploring the area, or speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and may incur an additional cost payable directly.

Departure Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.

As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

To make your way to the airport, there are various connections by the Bergen Light Rail and airport bus, as well as taxi and ride share services such as Uber or Bolt. If you are having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.

Tour Suitability

• This is an independent, self-guided tour with no tour leader. You navigate stations, wharves and connections, board trains and boats, and manage your own luggage without group assistance.
• The journey from Oslo to Balestrand is a long travel day of approximately 10 to 11 hours, with several train and ferry connections and an early morning departure from Oslo Central Station.
• Your main luggage is transferred ahead from Oslo to Bergen, so you carry only an overnight bag for two nights in Balestrand. One bag per person must be left at your Oslo hotel reception by 6:30am (or the night before).
• Balestrand is a small, quiet fjordside village with limited services and 2-star accommodation. Bergen is one of the rainiest cities in Europe, so expect rain in any season.
• Stations, platforms and ferry wharves involve steps, gaps when boarding, and uneven ground. City sightseeing includes cobbled streets, hills and stairs.
• Some fjord and rail services can be seasonal; confirm your departure falls within the operating window.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Child Policy

Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Pace
This tour category is Leisurely

Our Leisurely tours are designed for a relaxed travel experience, they feature longer stays in each destination and ample free time. Unpack, unwind, and explore at your own pace with minimal early starts or hotel changes.

Activity and Mobility

This tour is categorised as: 3 out of 5 – Balanced

Our Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travellers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

Activity level: Gentle, self-guided touring with several days at leisure. The physical demands come from independently navigating stations and wharves, boarding trains and boats, and carrying an overnight bag, rather than from strenuous activity.

• Typical walking: On sightseeing days expect roughly 3 to 6 km of walking spread across the day, self-directed and easily broken up with rest stops.
• Optional longer walks: Mount Fløyen in Bergen via the Fløibanen Funicular (funicular up, with walking trails at the top), and exploring the alleyways of the Bryggen quarter.
• Terrain and key walks: Oslo and Bergen involve cobbled streets, hills and stairs, and Bergen’s Bryggen and waterfront are uneven underfoot. Balestrand is small and largely flat. Oslo Central, Myrdal and Flåm stations and the ferry wharves involve steps, platforms and gaps when boarding.

Mobility and accessibility: Best suited to passengers who can walk unaided, manage stairs and steps, board trains and boats without help, and handle their own overnight bag. There is no tour leader or group assistant to help with luggage or navigation, and the fixed rail and ferry format has limited flexibility for adjustments. Passengers using a mobility aid must disclose this at the time of booking.

Hotels, transport and climate: Hotels range from a 2-star property in Balestrand to a 4-star in Bergen; lifts and step-free rooms are not guaranteed at every property. Transport is by scheduled train, fjord cruise vessel and fast passenger boat, all boarded with the general public. There is no overnight cruise or camping, and standard hotel power is available throughout for CPAP users.

As a general requirement across all of our tours, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your tour.

Group Size

Independent travel throughout Norway.

Escorted Style

On this package you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged your transport, including scenic rail, a fjord cruise and a fast boat, along with some included sightseeing such as the guided Bergen food and culture walk. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.

This tour has no tour leader. In Oslo you may join an optional guided city tour, and in Bergen you are met by a local guide for the included food and culture walk. At all other times you travel independently.

Tour Type

Explore at your own pace with this expertly crafted Independent itinerary that offers both must-see sights and free time, with all accommodation and rail and fjord transport pre-arranged.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Airport transfers 
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Visas 
• Tipping
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

Travel on this tour is by scheduled transport that has been pre-arranged for you: the Bergen Railway and the Flåmsbana between Oslo and Flåm, a fjord cruise vessel along the Aurlandsfjord from Flåm to Balestrand, and a fast passenger boat along the Sognefjord from Balestrand to Bergen. Tickets are provided in your travel documentation.

You board and travel independently, so allow time at each station and wharf and keep your documents to hand. The long travel day from Oslo to Balestrand runs approximately 10 to 11 hours with several connections and an early start. Within Oslo and Bergen you get around on foot or by public transport; the optional Oslo Pass and Bergen City Card both include local transport. Your main luggage is transferred from Oslo to Bergen while you travel with an overnight bag to Balestrand.

Hotel Ratings

Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.

This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.

Accommodation Details

Accommodation on this tour has been carefully selected and ranges from 2 to 4-star, with breakfast included daily. As you are travelling independently, properties have been chosen for their proximity to the stations, wharves and town centres you will be using, so you can find your way on arrival and start each onward journey without a long transfer.

In the fjord village of Balestrand, your accommodation is a small, traditional, family-run property chosen for its setting on the shores of the Sognefjord rather than for a high star rating. Rooms are simple and the character is part of the appeal, and it is a genuine highlight of the fjord stay in a village with few other options.

Across Norway, hotel rooms and bathrooms can be smaller than you may be used to, twin rooms are often two single beds made up separately, and air-conditioning is uncommon as it is rarely needed. Some traditional and historic properties have limited or no lift access, and breakfast is typically a generous buffet.

Remember that your main luggage is transferred from Oslo to Bergen while you travel with an overnight bag to Balestrand, so pack essentials for two nights in your overnight bag. 

Packing Essentials

On this trip, we primarily use public transport, so we recommend packing light and efficiently. You'll need to carry your own luggage between train stations, ferry ports, and hotels, which may involve navigating stairs and walking over cobblestones. Keep in mind that many train stations may not have elevators.

• Layers for changeable weather, including a warm mid-layer and a waterproof, windproof jacket, as the fjord region can be cool and wet even in summer
• Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good grip for cobbled streets, station platforms and wharves
• A small overnight bag for your two nights in Balestrand, as your main luggage travels separately from Oslo to Bergen
• A compact umbrella and sunglasses
• A refillable water bottle
• A European travel adaptor (Type F, 230V)
• Any personal medication
• A daypack for sightseeing
• An eye mask for the long daylight hours in late spring and summer

Climate

Norway's fjord and mountain regions have a cool, changeable maritime climate. Summer (June to August) is mild, with daytime temperatures generally around 15 to 22 degrees Celsius in the cities and cooler in the fjords and highlands. This is the most reliable travel season and daylight is very long. Spring and autumn are cooler, around 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, with a higher chance of rain and snow lingering at altitude, particularly around Myrdal on the Bergen Railway. Bergen is one of the rainiest cities in Europe, so expect rain in any season. Winters are cold and dark with snow, and some fjord services run reduced schedules.

Currency and ATMs

The currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK). Norway is one of the most cashless countries in the world, and cards, including contactless and mobile payments, are accepted almost everywhere, from cafes and taxis to small kiosks. ATMs (minibank) are available in cities and towns, though many locals rarely carry cash. A card with low or no foreign transaction fees is the most practical option. Notify your bank of your travel dates. Norway is not in the Eurozone, so euros are generally not accepted.

Food and Allergies

Norwegian cuisine is fresh, seasonal and seafood-forward. Expect excellent salmon, cod, prawns and other seafood, alongside hearty dishes, open sandwiches (smørbrød) and the distinctive brown cheese (brunost). In Bergen, the historic Fish Market and the included food and culture walk are a good introduction to local specialities. Vegetarian options are widely available in the cities, though choices can be more limited in smaller villages such as Balestrand. Tap water is clean and excellent, and dining out is expensive by international standards.

While travelling you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing alongside a taste of the local cuisine. On this tour, breakfast is included daily and dinner is included on both nights in Balestrand. All other meals are at your own arrangement, giving you the freedom to sample Norway's cafes, seafood restaurants and food markets at your own pace. If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, please let us know at the time of booking so we can pass these on to our hotels and included venues where possible. Please be aware that we cannot guarantee the complete absence of allergens, and some smaller venues may have limited options.

Local Customs

Norwegians are generally reserved, punctual and value personal space and quiet in public. A calm, understated manner is appreciated, and loud behaviour stands out. Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. There is a strong outdoor culture (friluftsliv) and respect for nature, so follow marked paths and take all litter with you. English is very widely spoken.

Dress Code

Dress is casual and practical. The key is layered, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as conditions change quickly in the fjords and mountains. There are no strict dress requirements for restaurants or sightseeing, and smart casual is fine for dinner. When visiting churches, such as St Mary’s Church in Bergen, clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful. Waterproofs are worthwhile in any season.

Responsible Dining

In Norway you may occasionally see whale or seal meat offered to tourists. If you prefer to avoid it, choose from Norway’s abundant sustainable seafood instead.

Avoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities.

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory in Norway, as service is generally included and wages are high. It is customary to round up or leave around 5 to 10 per cent for good service in restaurants if you wish, and rounding up a taxi fare is common, but there is no expectation to tip. For the included Bergen food and culture walk and any optional guided tours, a small tip for your local guide is appreciated but entirely at your discretion.

Peak Travel Times

Peak season is summer, from mid-June to mid-August, when daylight is longest, the weather is mildest and all fjord and rail services run at full frequency. This is also when cities, trains and fjord cruises are busiest and accommodation is most expensive. Late May to early June and September offer fewer crowds and pleasant, if cooler and wetter, conditions. Constitution Day (17 May) is a major national celebration with large crowds and some closures. Winter is quiet, cold and dark, with reduced fjord services.

Safety and Security

Norway is one of the safest countries in the world, with very low levels of crime. Normal precautions apply: keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist areas and on public transport, particularly around stations and the Bergen waterfront. The main risks are environmental rather than criminal, as weather can change quickly, paths and wharves can be wet and slippery, and fjord waters are very cold. Follow safety instructions when boarding trains and boats, mind the gap at platforms, and dress for the conditions. The emergency numbers are 112 (police), 113 (ambulance) and 110 (fire).

Apps to Download

Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi. For Norway, the Vy app is useful for train times and tickets, and the Entur app covers public transport journey planning across the country.

Itinerary Changes

Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience. 

This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your trip! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our trips. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-trip cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider. 

We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.

If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.

Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it. 

Health, Wellness & Fitness Requirements

All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.

When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully to assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. If we find that you are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.

Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations

We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.

Open communication helps us ensure your trip is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible. 

Information for CPAP Users

If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping trips, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs. 

Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your trip.

Documentation

Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list. 

Official Travel Advice

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:

• Safety and Security: Current risks and precautions for the country you'll be visiting.
• Visa Requirements: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for entry.
• Entry and Exit: Up-to-date border regulations and health requirements.

Here are some helpful links to get you started:

• Australia: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations
• New Zealand: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
• America: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html
• Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories 
• India: https://www.mea.gov.in/travel-advisories.htm

In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:

• Local Expertise: We maintain regular communication with our trusted travel partners in your destination.
• Constant Monitoring: We continuously monitor official travel advisories from relevant government websites.
• Flexibility and Safety: Should it become necessary, we will make appropriate adjustments to your itinerary to prioritise your health and safety.

By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.

Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook

During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.  

We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming trip!

Travelling in a Group

Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please ensure that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip before departure.

Community Guidelines

Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.

Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.

If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options.

Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs Guide

While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire trip, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.

Coach Transportation

The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.

While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries,  we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.

For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.

Staying Connected

If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM may be possible as a final option. 

We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential trip information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.

Post-Tour Feedback

Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability. 

Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.