China Experience

19 Days Starting in Beijing and ending in Hong Kong

Visiting: Beijing, Great Wall - Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Leshan - Emei Shan, Emei Shan, Yangtze River, Yangshuo, Hong Kong

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

CBSE

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $4065

NB: Prices correct on 04-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Experience the breadth of cultures, flavours and landscapes that make up the vast Middle Kingdom on one our most popular tours through China. Marvel at iconic attractions like the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors, then find a quieter side of the country with a cruise along the Yangzi River and a stay in a Buddhist monastery tucked into the mountains of Emei Shan. Discover a land of epic history, vibrant cultures and dramatic vistas on this 19-day China Experience.  

Highlights

  • This is one of our most comprehensive trips in China, covering huge distances and taking in key destinations from north to south with plenty of variety in experiences and sights along the way 

  • Zip through the country from north to south on its efficient high-speed rail network.

  • Take through the iconic scenery of the Yangzi River as you meander through the dramatic Three Gorges on a three-day cruise

  • No matter how many guide books you have read, nothing truly prepares you for the grandeur and immensity of historic sights like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Leshan Big Buddha and the Terracotta Army. However, the country's modern man-made sights refuse to be outdone, and you can see the modern equivalence of those ancient feats in the skyline of Hong Kong and the Yangzi River's Three Gorges Hydroelectric dam 

  • Get up close to giant pandas in Chengdu and learn about the preservation work required for this ancient species.

  • Beyond adorable, endangered giant pandas, Chengdu is one of our favourite cities in China. Find out why our travellers end up falling in love with this emerging travel hotspot here: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/chengdu-china-travel-guide

  • Escape the cities to discover China's natural beauty. Trek up the misty forests of Emei Shan for a stay in a monastery, waking to the sound of drums and prayers in the morning Buddhist ritual.

  • Cycle through the Chinese countryside with backdrops that resemble paintings – the picturesque limestone karsts of Yangshuo, for example, grace the walls of conference rooms and Chinese embassy's around the world

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation: Hotel

Ni Hao! Welcome to Beijing, capital of the most populous country on earth. With plenty of places that give an insight into the China's ancient history, as well as newer sights that showcase contemporary culture. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask reception where it will take place. We will collect/check your passport, insurance and next of kin information at the group meeting, please have these on hand. After the meeting maybe head out to explore the Beijing streets – with your hotel located centrally, a walk in any direction will unveil all sorts of wonderful surprises. Perhaps kick off your China adventure with a taste of an iconic dish – Peking duck.

Day 2: Beijing

Location: Beijing

Accommodation: Hotel

Today you’ll explore two of the most popular sights in Beijing on foot and using public transport. While this can be crowded, it's the best way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Make your way to the centre of the city – Tiananmen Square, the symbolic centre of Chinese power. Framed by the Gate of Heavenly Peace with its Mao portrait, Mao's Mausoleum, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum, and with elaborate flag raising and lowering ceremonies at dawn and dusk, it's a place of pilgrimage for the Chinese tourists who consider it the heart of their nation. From here you will enter the enormous Forbidden City. Built more than 500 years ago and off limits to commoners for almost all that time, the Forbidden City looks much like it always has. As you explore the great halls and courtyards you’ll be able appreciate the might and grandeur of the Imperial Chinese court during the height of its power in the Ming and Qing dynasties. This evening is free to explore the Beijing street food scene; the quiet hutongs (historic narrow streets and alleys) come to life with lights and noise in the evening full of eateries to try the local treats.

Included Activities:
-Beijing - Forbidden City
-Beijing - Tiananmen Square

Optional Activities:
-Beijing - Temple of Heaven (entrance fee)
-Beijing - Summer Palace (entrance fee)
-Beijing - Kungfu Show (ticket)
-Beijing - Lama Temple (entrance fee)
-Beijing - Hutong family visit
-Beijing - Acrobat show (ticket)
-Beijing - Beijing Opera show (ticket)

Day 3: Great Wall - Beijing

Location: Great Wall - Beijing

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning you’ll take a private bus to visit Mutianyu Great Wall (around 2 hours) and spend some time exploring, taking photos and learning the history of this mighty site. An incredible piece of engineering, the wall stretches 6000 km west from the mountain ridges north of Beijing. It was originally constructed to protect Chinese empires from nomadic northern tribes, and even though it failed in this purpose it's still one of the country's most remarkable achievements and an iconic destination. The walk is generally on the restored section of the wall, but this still means walking on steep, uneven terrain with multiple steps, so reasonable fitness and comfortable shoes are needed. The walk is approximately 5 kilometres and will take 2 to 3 hours depending on your level of fitness. You can choose how you access the wall, with options including cable car, chairlift or even toboggan to come down (at your own expense). Being perched on this incredible engineering feat and surveying the spectacular surrounding countryside is an unforgettable experience. Return to Beijing by private bus, and then enjoy a free evening to either relax or explore further.

Included Activities:
-Beijing - Mutianyu Great Wall

Day 4: Xi'an

Location: Xi'an

Accommodation: Hotel

Today you'll travel to Xi'an by high-speed train (around 5.5 hours). The capital of Shaanxi Province, Xi’an is the largest city in northwest China. Once the imperial centre of China for nearly 2000 years, Xi'an is now a vibrant, modern city dotted with many interesting historical sites and is a great place to explore. Join your leader on a short walking tour to uncover what was once the start of the ancient trading route of the Silk Road. The city has a wonderful Muslim Quarter, and you’ll wander the narrow streets past shops, lively markets, and groups of white-bearded men in skull caps sipping tea in cafes. In your free time, maybe visit the ancient City Wall, the most complete in China, running over 13 kilometres (8 miles) around the city (and cycling on top of it is a great option). Or visit the Bell and Drum Towers, the former built (according to legend) to restrain the dragons that were causing earthquakes, the latter is (unsurprisingly) full of drums, once used to mark time and warn in emergencies. Xi’an’s Silk Road history means it has an exciting mixture of cultures, exemplified by its food options. So in the evening, perhaps visit the night markets and try many of the tantalising local specialties such as pao mo (lamb broth that you break flat bread into), hand pulled noodles, hot pot and barbecue.

Included Activities:
-Xi'an - Muslim Quarter Walking Tour

Optional Activities:
-Xi'an - City Wall bike hire
-Xi'an - Bell & Drum Towers (entrance fee)
-Xi'an - Little Wild Goose Pagoda
-Xi'an - Big Goose Pagoda (entrance fee)
-Xi'an - Great Mosque (entrance fee)

Day 5: Xi'an

Location: Xi'an

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, hop on your private transfer to visit what is undoubtedly one of the man-made wonders of the world – the Terracotta Warriors. You’ll learn all about this incredible archaeological find, rediscovered in 1976 by farmers digging a well after being buried for 2000 years. These clay statues of soldiers, horses and chariots (originally all painted) were commissioned by the emperor Qin Shi Huangdi as part of his mausoleum after he ascended to the throne in 264 BC. Three main pits are open for you to view, where just under 2000 of the warriors – each individually sculpted from clay and with a different costume, height, and even facial expressions – stand in battle formation. The scale is incredibly impressive. Return to Xi’an for you final evening in the city.

Included Activities:
-Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors Tour - leader led

Optional Activities:
-Xi'an - Tang Dynasty Show

Day 6: Chengdu

Location: Chengdu

Accommodation: Hotel

Take a 3.5-hour high speed train ride to Chengdu. The capital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu is most famous for two things – the pandas living in the mountains, and the food. Chengdu's signature spicy cuisine is largely regarded as the best within China. In such a food-focused country, this is no mean feat. Maybe sample a Sichuan hotpot this evening. Go on a walking tour with your leader and check out Tianfu Square and People's Park, arguably the most lively park in China, full of locals singing, dancing, doing tai chi or even modelling! It might be one of China's biggest cities, but Chengdu has preserved plenty of its traditional flavour, and you'll get a taste of it during this tour and your free time. Don't miss out on the teahouses – pull up a stool and sample the local's favourite green and jasmine tea. Don't be surprised if someone offers to give you a head massage or clean your ears while you sip!

Included Activities:
-Chengdu - Leader-led walking tour
-Chengdu - People's Park & Tianfu Square

Optional Activities:
-Chengdu - Wenshu Monastery (entrance fee)
-Chengdu - Sichuan Opera (ticket)

Day 7: Chengdu

Location: Chengdu

Accommodation: Hotel

Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base today, where you're able to witness the conservation efforts being made to save this endearing species. There are only around 1000 pandas left in the world and 80% of them are found in the mountains in Sichuan. The facility was set up 30 years ago to help protect this animal, and they now have the biggest number of giant pandas in the world living at the base, along with red pandas. The pandas have over 600 acres of parkland to live in, and today you'll have the honour of getting up close to these gorgeous creatures. Watch them play, eat bamboo and climb the trees. If you’re lucky enough (and travelling between July and September) you might get to see newborns taking their first steps in the nursery. Afterwards, return to downtown Chengdu for some free time. Perhaps take in a performance of traditional Sichuan Opera, visit the Wenshu Temple, or take a cooking class. Ask your leader for details.

Included Activities:
-Chengdu - Giant Panda Breeding Research Base (entrance fee & transport included)

Day 8: Leshan - Emei Shan

Location: Leshan - Emei Shan

Accommodation: Hotel

Travel by private bus to the sacred mountains of Emei Shan. Along the way, stop in the town of Leshan to visit the World Heritage-listed Leshan Giant Buddha. Facing the river, the 71-metre-tall Buddha was carved out of a cliff face and took almost a 100 years to finish about 1300 years ago, in order to subdue the violent flood that the Leshan town had to suffer in ancient times. Depending on the volume of visitors, you may either choose either to climb up and down Leshan Mountain or take the river boat to experience the Giant Buddha, although the river boat is the best option if you want see the statue's entirety and wow at its magnificence. Then continue to Emei Shan (approx. 40 min) where you'll spend the next three nights.

Included Activities:
-Leshan - Giant Buddha (boat ticket & transport included)

Day 9: Emei Shan

Location: Emei Shan

Accommodation: Monastery/Guesthouse

Today will be spent exploring the landscape surrounding Emei Shan, one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains. In the morning, travel by the park bus and then cable car (about 3 hours total), to the Golden Summit. The views from the 3099-metre/10,170-feet peak at Emei Shan are truly spectacular, especially on clear days. Take a public bus down the mountain, where you’ll start your 3-hour trek with a local guide to your accommodation at a monastery. Expect plenty of steps and steep paths, and dress accordingly. Sturdy footwear will help you to enjoy this challenging but rewarding day on the mountain.

Included Activities:
-Emei Shan - Scenic Area Hiking
-Emei Shan - Cable car & Golden Summit visit

Day 10: Emei Shan

Location: Emei Shan

Accommodation: Hotel

Today continue to explore the beautiful countryside at the base of the mountain, which provides ample opportunity for leisurely walks. It may be possible to visit some local hot spring resort to relax and revive from your hike, or take a tour of some nearby villages. You can also visit the Crouching Tiger Monastery, hidden deep in the forest, and see its seven-metre copper pagoda inscribed with Buddhist images and texts.

Optional Activities:
-Emei Shan - Crouching Tiger Monastery
-Emei Shan - Hot Spring Resort

Day 11: Yangtze River

Location: Yangtze River

Accommodation: Overnight Boat

Travel back to Chengdu and then onto Yichang by train (approximately 7 hours). Yichange, the gateway to the Yangzi River, is also where the Three Gorges Dam is located. From here, you'll start your 4 days cruise up the magnificent Yangtze River.The gorges are spectacular and most travellers enjoy their time on the Yangtze boats but some words of warning are necessary. The Yangtze River region is one of the most industrialised and rapidly developing areas in China. We travel on Chinese tourist boats rather than luxury tourist vessels. We like to call it a river trip, rather than a traditional cruise. Cabins are twin-share with private bathroom facilities. While all meals are included during your time on the boat, the buffet-style Chinese cuisine can be quite plain, but there's a chance to visit the supermarket before boarding in order to stock up on some favourite snacks, drinks or fruit for your journey.

Day 12-14: Yangtze River

Location: Yangtze River

Accommodation: Overnight Boat

This morning, enjoy a tour of the incredible feat of engineering that is the Three Gorges Dam. The world’s largest hydroelectric project, the dam generates power and prevents the major flooding that had long threatened the people of the area (though the impact on displaced people and archaeological sites should not be ignored). Continue your cruise along the Yangtze River. The Yangtze has inspired numerous poets, writers and travellers over the centuries. You will travel along one of the most picturesque sections, through the renowned Three Gorges. The dramatic 'Sanxia', as they are known in Chinese, stretch for 200 kilometres and vary from 100 metres to 300 metres in width. As well as relaxing and taking in the sights (now much changed since the implementation of the Three Gorges dam), you may have opportunities to visit some riverside attractions and towns on optional group excursions, including leaving the river boat to take a side trip down a tributary of the Yangtze River. If you prefer to stay on-board, perhaps take the chance to learn some Mandarin words or how to write characters from your leader, how to play mahjong, sing some Chinese songs, catch up on your travel diary or just relax and chat with your group members and local travellers.

Included Activities:
-Yichang - Guided Three Gorges Dam Project tour

Day 15: Yangshuo

Location: Yangshuo

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your Yangtze boat trip will end in Chongqing this morning, the biggest city in China with a population of over 20 million in the city centre and suburbs that spraw along the river and up the steep hills behind it. From here you’ll take a private bus to the train station and board the bullet train to Yangshuo (approximately 5-6 hours). When you arrive, take the time to rest and soak up the charm of this little town, popular with the Chinese and Western travellers alike, who come for the beautiful landscape and stay for the great cafe and bar culture. It's also one of the best places in the country to get a feel for local culture and traditions, while having plenty of fun at the same time. The countryside around Yangshuo is immortalized in many traditional Chinese paintings – picture immense limestone karsts dotting the rural landscape and towering spectacularly over rice paddies and the meandering Li River, all celebrated on every 20 yuan note.

Day 16: Yangshuo

Location: Yangshuo

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

Today you’ll shake out your train legs and experience the dramatic limestone karst landscape during a bike ride, where you’ll gain a real insight into rural Chinese life. Stop for lunch at the house of our local friends for a tasty meal made from locally grown produce. This is an absolutely stunning region to explore, as every turn in the road brings you to another postcard-worthy location. You’ll have a local guide during the ride, and helmets and bike rental are included in the trip price. The evening is free for you to explore Yangshuo's lively cafe and bar scene. Maybe grab a bowl of pork stuffed tofu or beer fish (simmered fresh water fish).

Included Activities:
-Yangshuo - Cycling tour (local guide & bike hire included)

Optional Activities:
-Yangshuo - Moon Hill (entrance fee)

Day 17: Yangshuo

Location: Yangshuo

Accommodation: Hotel

Today is as clear as a Yanghsuo spring day, but there are plenty of optional activities to choose from. You could begin the day by focusing your body and mind with a morning tai chi class or kung-fu lesson. Perhaps try your hand at Chinese calligraphy, or simply sit back and relax as you enjoy a relaxing cruise down the Li or Yulong River. Maybe visit the market to shop with the locals and get a feel for the regional produce. You can then put this new knowledge to use in a cooking class at the Yangshuo Cooking School. Learn to cook Chinese dishes with recipes that are easy to make and ingredients readily available outside of China, so that you’ll soon be wowing friends and family back at home. Or take a tour to the much loved viewpoint at Xiangongshan for a birdview of Yangshuo's amazing landscape and visit a local tea farm to learn about tea picking and brewing. In the evening, perhaps watch an outdoor light show staged by 2008 Beijing Olympics’ Opening Ceremony director Zhang Yimou.

Optional Activities:
-Yangshuo - Xianggongshan & Tea Farm Visit (Minimum 6, transport and entrance fee)
-Yangshuo - Impressions Liu Sanjie light show (minimum 4 people)
-Yangshuo - Tai Chi/Kung Fu class
-Yangshuo - Cooking School & Market Tour
-Yangshuo - Li River Cruise
-Yangshuo - Massage/Hot cupping

Day 18: Hong Kong

Location: Hong Kong

Accommodation: Hotel

Take a private bus from your Yangshuo Hotel to Guilin West Station, and then board a bullet train to West Kowloon station in Hong Kong (approx. 4 hours). Once you arrive mid-late afternoon, follow your leader on an orientation walk near your hotel. Hong Kong's cityscape is spectacular and its modern fast-paced life is only minutes from picturesque islands and beaches. The locals are very proud of their Cantonese culture and history, so step out of the shopping malls and off the main streets to discover another side of the city. This evening, enjoy an optional final farewell dinner to sample some of the best Cantonese dishes.

Optional Activities:
-Hong Kong - Victoria Peak & Tram
-Hong Kong - Star Ferry
-Hong Kong - Nightly Light Show - Free

Day 19: Hong Kong

Location: Hong Kong

There are no activities planned for the today and the trip ends this morning. Check out time is 12 pm but you'll be able to leave your luggage at the hotel reception if you can't find a flight until the evening. However, we highly recommend you to spend a couple of extra days here so that you can make the most of Hong Kong. If you're interested, we can help you book additional accommodation (subject to availability). Please consult your booking agent if you are interested.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (13 nights), Monastery (1 nights), Overnight Riverboat (4 nights)

  • Beijing - Forbidden City

  • Beijing - Tiananmen Square

  • Beijing - Mutianyu Great Wall

  • Xi'an - Muslim Quarter Walking Tour

  • Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors Tour

  • Chengdu - Leader-led walking tour

  • Chengdu - People's Park & Tianfu Square

  • Chengdu - Giant Panda Breeding Research Base (entrance fee & transport included)

  • Leshan - Giant Buddha (boat ticket & transport included)

  • Emei Shan - Scenic Area Hiking

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

Included Activities

  • Beijing - Forbidden City (entrance fee included)
  • Beijing - Tiananmen Square
  • Beijing - Mutianyu Great Wall (entransce fee, transfer included)
  • Xi'an - Muslim Quarter walking tour (Leader-led)
  • Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors Tour (entrace fee, transport, local guide included)
  • Chengdu - Walking tour
  • Chengdu - Giant Panda Breeding Research Base
  • Leshan - Giant Buddha
  • Emei Shan - Scenic Area Hiking
  • Emei Shan - Cable car & Golden Summit
  • Yichang - Three Gorges Dam Project
  • Yangshuo - Cycling tour

Transport

  • CHINA TRAIN TRAVEL SECURITY
  • When travelling by train in China you will need to pass through security checkpoints similar to those at airports. Please be aware that items that may be classified as ‘weapons’ might be confiscated (even from your suitcase), as all luggage travels in the compartment with you. We recommend leaving items that fall into this category (eg. pocket knives or scissors) at home. Aerosol spray bottles are not permitted on high-speed trains and can get confiscated at the station.

Accommodation

  • HOTEL ROOMS:
  • Some travellers have reported that hotels/accommodation in this region tend to have harder bed mattresses than those they are used to at home. You may like to request an extra quilt or bedding from the hotels if you find this an issue.
  • SMOKING ROOMS:
  • Smoking is prevalent in China and hotels generally do not offer specific non-smoking rooms. Larger hotels with central air conditioning will sometimes transport the smell of smoke between rooms. While we ask our hotels to ensure our rooms are well cleaned and ventilated well before occupation in some cases this is not possible, and the smell of smoke may linger. Please speak to your leader about the possibility of changing rooms if you encounter this.
  • WIFI:
  • WiFi is often available in hotel reception areas and sometimes in rooms. Your leader will be able to advise on the best places to get connected.
  • EMEI MONASTERY STAY:
  • We stay at a monastery in Emei Shan. The standard of the monastery rooms is basic twin share accommodation with a shared bathroom and toilet inside the monastery. In high season, the monastery will accommodate a large number of pilgrims and travellers and the stay may not be as tranquil as you may expect. On occasion we will be accommodated at a nearby hotel or guesthouse if the monastery is overbooked.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 11,12,13, 14 (Overnight boat) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. A scanned copy of the personal details page of your passport needs to be sent to your booking agent no later than 45 days before departure in order for us to purchase your train tickets.. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.
  • 3. Please note while traveling through mainland China you will not be able to access some popular internet websites.

Mode of Transport

  • CHINA TRAIN TRAVEL SECURITY
  • When travelling by train in China you will need to pass through security checkpoints similar to those at airports. Please be aware that items that may be classified as ‘weapons’ might be confiscated (even from your suitcase), as all luggage travels in the compartment with you. We recommend leaving items that fall into this category (eg. pocket knives or scissors) at home. Aerosol spray bottles are not permitted on high-speed trains and can get confiscated at the station.

Accommodation

  • HOTEL ROOMS:
  • Some travellers have reported that hotels/accommodation in this region tend to have harder bed mattresses than those they are used to at home. You may like to request an extra quilt or bedding from the hotels if you find this an issue.
  • SMOKING ROOMS:
  • Smoking is prevalent in China and hotels generally do not offer specific non-smoking rooms. Larger hotels with central air conditioning will sometimes transport the smell of smoke between rooms. While we ask our hotels to ensure our rooms are well cleaned and ventilated well before occupation in some cases this is not possible, and the smell of smoke may linger. Please speak to your leader about the possibility of changing rooms if you encounter this.
  • WIFI:
  • WiFi is often available in hotel reception areas and sometimes in rooms. Your leader will be able to advise on the best places to get connected.
  • EMEI MONASTERY STAY:
  • We stay at monasteries in Emei Shan. The standard of the monastery rooms is basic twin share accommodation with a shared bathroom and toilet inside the monastery. In high season, the monastery will accommodate a large number of pilgrims and travellers and the stay may not be as tranquil as you may expect. On occasion we will be accommodated at a nearby hotel or guesthouse if the monastery is overbooked.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This trip is a true journey in the sense that we are covering huge distances and visiting many destinations along the way. Be prepared for long days of travel in between days packed with sightseeing.

    With walks on the Great Wall and up Emei Shan (both which have many steps!), you'll need a good level of fitness to get the most out of these activities. Don't worry, you'll have plenty of more relaxing days too, such as on the Yangzi River cruise or in the picturesque town of Yangshuo.

    There is a variety of accommodation on this trip including hotels, guesthouses, monasteries, and riverboats. They might not always be as comfortable as home, but each accommodation site will give you a different perspective on China.

    While we finish in Hong Kong, due to our late afternoon arrival we do not include much free time or activities here. We highly recommend staying a few extra days post trip to make the most of this exciting city. Here's some tips to get you started: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-do-in-hong-kong

    China’s world-class sites and experiences draw large numbers of local and international travellers. We recommend a little patience and comfortable shoes as you may need to wait before entering the more popular locations on your itinerary.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

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I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

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26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

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Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

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Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Saturday

Nov 12, 2024 - Nov 30, 2024
$4065

Tuesday - Saturday

Mar 04, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025
$4225

Tuesday - Saturday

Mar 11, 2025 - Mar 29, 2025
$4065

Tuesday - Saturday

Mar 18, 2025 - Apr 05, 2025
$4265

Monday - Friday

Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
$4565

Tuesday - Saturday

Apr 08, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025
$4520

Tuesday - Saturday

May 06, 2025 - May 24, 2025
$4390

Tuesday - Saturday

May 13, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$4390

Tuesday - Saturday

May 20, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$4225

Tuesday - Saturday

May 27, 2025 - Jun 14, 2025
$4225

Tuesday - Saturday

Jun 10, 2025 - Jun 28, 2025
$4065

Tuesday - Saturday

Jul 08, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025
$4065

Tuesday - Saturday

Jul 15, 2025 - Aug 02, 2025
$4225

Tuesday - Saturday

Jul 22, 2025 - Aug 09, 2025
$4225

Tuesday - Saturday

Aug 05, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025
$4065

Tuesday - Saturday

Aug 12, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025
$4065

Monday - Friday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025
$4225

Tuesday - Saturday

Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025
$4390

Monday - Friday

Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
$4390

Tuesday - Saturday

Sep 09, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
$4390

Monday - Friday

Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
$4390

Tuesday - Saturday

Oct 14, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025
$4390

Monday - Friday

Oct 20, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
$4390

Tuesday - Saturday

Oct 21, 2025 - Nov 08, 2025
$4225

Monday - Friday

Oct 27, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
$4225

Tuesday - Saturday

Oct 28, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025
$4225

Tuesday - Saturday

Nov 04, 2025 - Nov 22, 2025
$4065

Tuesday - Saturday

Nov 11, 2025 - Nov 29, 2025
$4065

Tuesday - Saturday

Mar 03, 2026 - Mar 21, 2026
$4270

Tuesday - Saturday

Mar 10, 2026 - Mar 28, 2026
$4270

Tuesday - Saturday

Mar 17, 2026 - Apr 04, 2026
$4435

Tuesday - Saturday

Apr 07, 2026 - Apr 25, 2026
$4610

Tuesday - Saturday

May 05, 2026 - May 23, 2026
$4610

Tuesday - Saturday

May 12, 2026 - May 30, 2026
$4435

Tuesday - Saturday

Jun 09, 2026 - Jun 27, 2026
$4270

Tuesday - Saturday

Jul 07, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026
$4435

Tuesday - Saturday

Jul 21, 2026 - Aug 08, 2026
$4270

Tuesday - Saturday

Aug 04, 2026 - Aug 22, 2026
$4435

Tuesday - Saturday

Sep 01, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
$4435

Tuesday - Saturday

Sep 08, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
$4610

Tuesday - Saturday

Oct 13, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
$4610

Tuesday - Saturday

Oct 20, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026
$4610

Tuesday - Saturday

Oct 27, 2026 - Nov 14, 2026
$4435

Tuesday - Saturday

Nov 10, 2026 - Nov 28, 2026
$4270

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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