13 Day Sri Lanka Family Small Group Adventure

• 12 nights in 4 to 5-star hotels
• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 10 dinners
• Boat ride along the Madu River
• Visit the Elephant Transit Home at Udawalawe
• Guided game drives in Yala and Minneriya national parks
• Hands-on Sri Lankan cooking experience
• Dedicated private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide throughout
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure
• Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary

• Colombo – City tour
• Madu River – Boat ride
• Galle – Galle Fort tour
• Udawalawe – Elephant Transit Home
• Yala National Park – Guided game drive
• Tissamaharama – Curd making experience
• Nuwara Eliya – City tour
• Hill Country – Tea plantation and factory visit
• Kandy – Tuk tuk ride and city tour
• Kandy – Sri Lankan cooking experience
• Dambulla – Cave Temple visit
• Sigiriya – Rock Fortress climb
• Sigiriya – Audangawa village walk
• Minneriya National Park – Guided game drive

Family Tour Policy
This tour is designed for families travelling with at least one child under 18 years of age. 

Children must be a minimum of 3 years old at time of travel, and all children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times throughout the tour.

We offer a range of rooming configurations to suit your family's needs. Up to two rollaway beds can be added to a twin share or double room. Children under 12 sharing a room with an adult are eligible for a 25% discount off the twin share price; full fare applies to children occupying their own room. If your child requires a booster seat, please bring one from home, as our ground suppliers are unable to guarantee suitable booster seats will be available in tour vehicles.

Our travel specialists are happy to help you find the right setup and confirm any applicable child discounts.

Pre/post accommodation 

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $206.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $194.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation in Negombo

• $244.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $219.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

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
You will have the option choose single, twin or double. We offer a range of rooming configurations to suit your family's needs. Up to two rollaway beds can be added to twin/double rooms or interconnecting/adjacent rooms can be provided.

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $700.00 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. 

Payment Information 

Secure your tour with a $99.00 deposit per person.

Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.

Installment Schedule:

1. At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
2. Pay a 1st installment of $600.00 per person within 7 days.
3. Pay a 2nd installment of $1,100.00 per person within 60 days.
4. You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Cooling Off Period 
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product. 

Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions 

Arrival Details

Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are arriving as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your own arrangements to the starting hotel.

Where the service remains included, on arrival look out for a representative holding an “Inspiring Vacations” sign after you have collected your baggage and exited customs. If you cannot find them, try to avoid wandering around and instead stay in one place and call the emergency contact number on your documentation.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal so that your transfers can be confirmed.

Welcome Meeting Instructions

You are welcome to arrive at any time on the first day of your tour, and the day is at your leisure. After breakfast the following morning, your guide will meet you at 9:00 a.m. for a brief introduction and overview of the tour, before your Colombo city tour. Please ensure you arrive on time.

Departure Details

There are no scheduled activities on the final day. You will travel to Negombo and have the use of a day room until 8pm.  

Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are departing as per the purchased itinerary. Where the service remains included, your guide will confirm the pick-up time from your hotel, which depends on the flight you have booked. Generally you will be required to be at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled departure.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal so that your transfers can be confirmed.

Tour Suitability

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the highlights of this tour. However, if you have a fear of heights or limited mobility you may prefer to skip the climb, as it involves numerous uneven, narrow steps and confined walkways. Dambulla Cave Temple also involves a stepped climb.
• Sri Lanka can be extremely hot, accompanied by brief but intense rainstorms in the southwest region. Consider whether your travel season suits you, and remember to use sun protection and stay well hydrated.
• The Minneriya elephant gathering is seasonal, with the largest numbers around the dry season (roughly June to September). Depending on elephant movements, the safari may instead run in Kaudulla or the nearby Eco Park. Elephant numbers vary by season.
• Poya (full moon) is observed monthly. On Poya days no alcohol is sold and many shops are closed.
• Please note that Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed, Yala National park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park, while still being able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park. 

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.

Pace

This tour category is Steady

Our steady tours offer a good mix of guided sightseeing and personal free time. With a combination of 2-3 night stays and occasional 1 night stops in key locations, this pace allows for deeper exploration while minimising long travel days.

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.et and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

• Activity level: Balanced, with a mix of flat city walking, heritage sites with stairs, jeep safaris, and some uneven village terrain.
• Typical walking: around 1 to 4 km on sightseeing days, with several relaxed or travel days, and jeep safaris that involve only short walks.
• Optional longer walks:
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress climb, a steep ascent on many stone steps.
  • Audangawa village walk, around 2 to 3 km on dirt and grass paths.

Terrain and key walks:

• Cities and towns: mostly flat pavements and bazaar streets in Colombo, Galle and Kandy, with some cobblestones and steps. Galle Fort has cobbled lanes.
• Hill country: short, stepped walks around the town, gardens and tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya.
• Major heritage sites: Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple involve steep climbs and many stone steps.

Mobility and accessibility:

• Best suited to: travellers comfortable with moderate, stop-start walking, steps, and some uneven ground at key sites.
• Opt-out options: most walks and climbs can be skipped, including the Sigiriya climb, Dambulla steps, the Galle Fort walk and the village walk. Passengers can often remain in the vehicle or at the hotel.
• Wheelchairs: the private vehicle and hotels can accommodate wheelchairs, but several sightseeing locations are not wheelchair accessible (for example Sigiriya, Dambulla, and the village walk), and there are no true step-free alternative routes at these sites. Please reach out to Inspiring Vacations directly to discuss wheelchair use.

Hotels, transport and climate:

• Hotels: main tour hotels have lifts and many offer accessible rooms, subject to room category and availability. All have adequate power outlets for CPAP machines.

• Transport: a private air-conditioned vehicle is used throughout, with open or semi-open safari jeeps in the national parks. Walking to and from vehicles is generally short, with regular comfort stops on longer drives.

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

Minimum: 4 passenger, Maximum: 16 passengers

Escorted Style

This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated English-speaking guide who accompanies you throughout. Depending on group size, this will either be a chauffeur guide who both drives and guides, or a separate driver and guide working together. Local guides may also lead some site visits. 

Tour Type

Bring the whole family together on our expertly crafted Family Small Group Tours, designed to balance discovery, relaxation and unforgettable moments for every generation. In a smaller group, you'll be taken to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures alongside a dedicated tour leader, with comfortable accommodation to unwind in each evening and designated free time to explore at your own pace. Fully planned and thoughtfully designed, they make it easy to connect, explore and create lasting memories together.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Visas
• Travel insurance
• Meals not specified in the itinerary 
• Optional activities
• Tipping
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

While touring Sri Lanka you will travel by private, air-conditioned vehicle. Road journeys between regions can be slow, as the roads are winding and traffic is heavy in places. The travel times shown in the itinerary are approximate and do not account for en route stops, traffic or weather. Comfort stops are made on longer drives.

Safari drives in Yala and Minneriya national parks are made in open or semi-open four-wheel-drive jeeps on rough park tracks. A boat is used for the Madu River trip, and a short tuk tuk ride is included in Kandy.

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 passengers.

Accommodation Details

This tour uses a selection of 4 and 5-star hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka, including a multi-night stay at a resort in the Sigiriya area. Standard or starting room categories are provided unless a higher category has been booked at a supplement. Bedding configuration (double or twin) is on request and cannot be guaranteed at every property.

Packing Essentials

What you need to pack will vary according to the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you can carry and lift your luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs. A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal, along with a day pack to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and your essentials while touring during the day.

• Clothing: Pack a mix of lightweight and warm layers. Long sleeves and trousers are useful for mosquito protection and for the cooler hill country. Choose clothes that are easy to wash and dry, and ensure you have attire that covers shoulders and knees for temple visits. A light scarf can be useful for additional coverage.
• Footwear: Closed-in shoes are recommended to protect your feet whether you are walking in urban areas or through nature, and sturdy shoes are useful for the Sigiriya climb.
• Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Warm Gear: The hills of Sri Lanka can get cold at night, so a light, warm and waterproof jacket is advisable.
• Medical Kit: Carry personal items like mild painkillers, electrolytes, plasters and insect repellent, along with any prescription medicines you may require, in their original packaging.
• Water Bottle: A reusable bottle of at least 1.5 litres is recommended to reduce the environmental impact of bottled water.
• Camera or Phone: Don’t forget to bring something to capture memories.

Climate

Sri Lanka’s tropical climate offers warmth year-round, but weather conditions vary across the island. The southwest monsoon season from May to September brings heavy rains and humidity to the southwestern regions, including Colombo and Galle, making these areas lush and vibrant. In contrast, the northeast monsoon from October to January affects the northeastern parts.

The central highlands, including Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, experience cooler temperatures and frequent rain, providing a refreshing escape from the coastal heat. The best time to visit the southwest coast is from December to March, while the northeast coast is ideal from April to September. We recommend you pack accordingly, using adequate sun protection and staying hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.

Regardless of the season, Sri Lanka’s diverse climate ensures a unique and enriching travel experience throughout the year.

Currency and ATMs

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Rupee (LKR). ATMs are widely available and accept credit and debit cards, and major credit cards are accepted in larger shops and restaurants in major cities. However, for small payments, credit and debit cards are typically not accepted, so it’s essential to have LKR cash on hand for daily expenses.

Food and Allergies

Sri Lankan cuisine is a delightful blend of flavours, heavily influenced by its diverse cultural heritage. Expect aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and vibrant dishes. Rice and curry is a staple, often accompanied by an array of side dishes, including vegetables, lentils, and pickles. Seafood is abundant, with dishes like fish curry and prawn sambal being popular, especially along the coast. Street food is a must-try, offering treats like hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), kottu roti (chopped flatbread with vegetables and meat), and samosas.

For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful, given the significant Buddhist influence. Many curries and rice dishes are naturally plant-based. However, for gluten-free diets, it’s important to check ingredient lists, as soy sauce and other additives might contain gluten.

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you’ll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings in Sri Lanka. Breakfast is included daily and most evenings include dinner at your hotel, while lunches are generally at your own arrangement, giving you the flexibility to decide where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your chauffeur guide will also be able to suggest restaurants to try during your tour. For those with a particular food allergy, your guide will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.

Travellers should exercise caution with street food to avoid stomach issues; choose vendors with good hygiene practices and eat freshly prepared dishes. Sri Lanka’s culinary scene is diverse and rich, offering an unforgettable gastronomic journey for every traveller.

Local Customs

Travellers to Sri Lanka will find a number of local customs and traditions that enhance the island’s charm. Respect for religion is paramount; always remove your shoes and hats before entering temples, and dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Pointing with your finger, turning your back to religious statues, or touching someone’s head are considered disrespectful.

Dress Code

When visiting Sri Lanka, it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully, particularly in religious and rural areas. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the tropical climate, but ensure shoulders and knees are covered when visiting temples and religious sites. Avoid beachwear outside of coastal areas and resort settings. In urban areas and tourist spots, casual attire is generally acceptable. By adhering to these guidelines, travellers can show respect for local customs and enjoy a comfortable and pleasant stay.

Responsible Dining

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

A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip, we recommend an amount per person per day for your chauffeur guide, to be paid in local currency. The amount you wish to contribute depends on the service received and is at your complete discretion.   We recommend LKR 1,200 per person per day for your guide and LKR 600 per person per day for your driver. The amount you wish to contribute depends on the service received and is entirely at the guest's discretion. 

Peak Travel Times

The peak travel times in Sri Lanka are primarily influenced by the island’s climate and festive seasons. The most popular time to visit the southwest coast, including destinations like Colombo, Galle, and the southern beaches, is from December to March when the weather is dry and sunny.

Additionally, the central highlands, including Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, are popular from January to April, offering cooler temperatures and clear skies. Major festivals, such as the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April and the Kandy Esala Perahera in July or August, also attract many visitors.

Safety and Security

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government’s advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your tour.

Your chauffeur guide will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however you’ll have some free time to explore on your own. While your guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.

Please also note that your chauffeur guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it’s deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

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. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour.

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/
• 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.