Classic Japan

11 Days Starting in Kyoto and ending in Tokyo

Visiting: Kyoto, Koya-san, Hiroshima, Tsumago, Matsumoto, Tokyo

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

CJKJ

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $5725 $4866 Operator discount: -$859 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 24-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Steeped in centuries of tradition and full of culinary prowess, Japan is awash with sights to see and histories to uncover. From Kyoto to Tokyo, spend 11 days exploring the heart of Japan, with memories of the Edo era, sobering warfare sites, lush natural landscapes and eclectic neighbourhoods to discover. Be tempted by tempura, savour your sushi and sip some sochu as you discover the endless variety and diversity of Japan with your small group, all headed by a local leader who knows all of the best places to go. What’s stopping you embarking on a cultural escapade to the home of geisha, torii, sake and nori?

Highlights

  • Surrounded in tranquil scenery, an overnight Buddhist temple stay in Koya-san is as peaceful and unique as it sounds. It’s the perfect place to stop and explore between Kyoto and Hiroshima.

  • With two nights spent in Tokyo, you’ll cover the top sights with your small group. With so much to do, you may want to stay on another week!

  • A visit to the Hiroshima Peace Park is a sobering but important experience for understanding the tragedies of Japan’s not so distant past – do so with the local knowledge of your leader to show you the way.

  • Spend a memorable night with an included dinner in a traditional Japanese ryokan in tiny Tsumago – one of the best-preserved Edo-era towns along the ancient Nakesendo Highway.

  • Be impressed by the efficiency and ultra-modernity as you zip from city to town. Travel has never been so easy!

  • Discover Japan's most iconic city sights, from walking the Geisha district and seeing the cultural landmarks of Kyoto to touring the temple district and cruising past all the contemporary highlights of Tokyo.

  • Learn more about the sobering past of Hiroshima at the memorial park, the museums and the monuments dedicated to the memory of the victims – they now also advocate for world peace and serve as a reminder of the devastation of war.

  • Feast on okonomiyaki – Japan’s signature savoury pancake of egg, cabbage, soba noodles and meat or seafood – at an included dinner in Hiroshima at a special local restaurant.

  • Meet the locals over a home-cooked dinner during your stay in a ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) in the mountain town of Tsumago – the historic medieval village preserved from the Edo period.

  • Spend a night in Koya-san’s Shukubo Temple and learn about the customs of traditional Japanese accommodation as you share vegetarian meals with the monks who run the lodgings.

Show all

Places You'll See

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Kyoto

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Location: Kyoto

Accommodation: Hotel

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Kyoto, Japan. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today. If you have some free time, step out onto the streets for your first taste of this beautiful city. Originally founded as Heian-kyo (literally 'tranquillity and peace capital') by Emperor Kammu in AD794, Kyoto had its golden age during the imperial court's heyday from 794 to 1185. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years (the name means Capital City) but the emperor and government are now located in Tokyo. After the meeting tonight, perhaps head out for your first taste of traditional Japanese food. As the millennium-long home of the imperial kitchen, Kyoto is known as the centre of Japanese culinary tradition, so you’re sure to begin this trip with a delicious meal.

Day 2: Kyoto

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Location: Kyoto

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

You’ll begin the day with a visit to some of Kyoto’s more important sights. Visit the opulent Nijo Castle – home to the Tokugawa Shoguns who had power over the country during the Edo period. Check out the ‘nightingale floors’ of Ninomaru Palace, which squeak to warn of intruders (like otherwise-silent ninjas). From the castle, it’s a short bus ride to Ryoan-ji – perhaps Japan’s most famous Zen garden – where carefully placed rocks sit in an immaculately raked sea of gravel. Located also nearby is the extravagantly decorated Kinkakuji Temple, immortalised in Yukio Mishima’s novel 'The Golden Pavilion'. This evening, take a step back in time on a walk through the narrow streets of Kyoto's charming Gion district, an entertainment district and the centre of geisha culture, coming alive at night. If you’re lucky you might spot geikos (geishas) or maikos (apprentice geishas) with their elaborate dress and make up. If you’ve got the budget, perhaps attend a tea ceremony at one of the district's teahouses, or splash out on a kaiseki meal in a ryotei (small restaurants serving traditional multi-course cuisine).

Included Activities:
-Kyoto - Ryoanji Zen Garden
-Kyoto - Nijo Castle
-Kyoto - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
-Kyoto - Gion District walk

Day 3: Kyoto

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Location: Kyoto

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today is a full free day and there’s so much for you to explore. With its many cultural landmarks and historical sites, and the abundance of traditional arts and literature, Kyoto is regarded as the cultural heart of Japan. Kyoto is also a city that lends itself to walking, and there are a number of paths available. Recommended is a gentle stroll through the nearby eastern hills along the ‘Path of Philosophy’ that links Ginkaku-ji – the Temple of the Silver Pavilion – with Nanzen-ji Temple. This walk can be extended south through well-preserved Old Town areas to Kiyamizu-dera (Temple of Clear Water) from where there is an acclaimed view across a wooded gorge toward Kyoto. Also recommended, for those visiting in spring, is a visit to the theatre for a presentation of Miyako Odori (the Cherry Blossom Dance) performed by elaborately dressed maiko (apprentice geishas). Close to Kyoto station, you'll also find the architecturally impressive Higashi Honganji Temple and the almost surreal Sanjusangendo, home to 1001 statues of Kannon. In the late afternoon you might like to return to the Kawaramachi or Shijo Dori area of central Kyoto to browse the shops or enjoy dinner in one of the many restaurants that occupy this exciting area.

Optional Activities:
-Kyoto - Cooking Class from
-Kyoto - Bike hire (per day) from
-Kyoto - Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
-Kyoto - Nanzenji Temple
-Kyoto - Kiyomizu-dera

Day 4: Koya-San

Location: Koya-san

Accommodation: Temple Stay

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Spot the 120 temples dotted around Koya-san as you take the train into an important region for Shingon Buddhism. Founded in the eighth century by the Buddhist saint Kobo Daishi, Koya-san has been a centre for religious activities for over 1200 years. The last leg of the journey takes you through some of Japan’s finest scenery, on a mountain road rising through the clouds, 915 m above sea-level. The most impressive sight on Mount Koya is the massive and mysterious Okunoin cemetery, the resting place of many of Japan's most famous people. Some 200,000 stone statues, wooden totems and sometimes bizarre memorials (a rocket marks the site of a mausoleum interring the workers of an aerospace company) lie throughout this moss-laden forest. After visiting the more interesting of the mountain’s sights, make your way to the comfortable Shukubo Temple Lodging for the night. Here you might interact with some of the monks that run the lodgings, learn about the customs of traditional Japanese accommodation and enjoy some monastic vegetarian cuisine.

Included Activities:
-Koya-san - Okunoin Cemetery

Optional Activities:
-Koya-san - Kongobu-ji Temple

Day 5: Hiroshima

CRISTINA TIRON

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Return by cable railway to Gokurakubashi and make your way to Osaka to board your first bullet train, heading to Hiroshima. Travelling by shinkansen is an absolute buzz, as you’ll reach speeds of up to 270 km per hour. As you speed south, stop to visit Japan’s most impressive samurai castle at Himeji. The building, which has survived earthquakes and war since the mid-16th century, was restored to its full glory in 2015. The moats, baileys, towers and walled alleyways were ingeniously designed to trick attackers – perhaps so intimidatingly that they were never in fact tested. Explore the castle that was once home to over 10,000 samurai families and look out over the grounds and the city below from the seventh floor. Continue on to Hiroshima and enjoy dinner together, feasting on Japan's signature savoury pancake - okonomiyaki.

Included Activities:
-Himeji - Himeji Castle

Day 6: Hiroshima

CRISTINA TIRON

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning you’ll visit the Genbaku (A-Bomb) Dome and the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, both of which stand testament to the fateful day in August 1945 when Hiroshima was chosen as target for the first ever wartime use of the atomic bomb. The dome was just metres from where the bomb detonated so it was able to retain its shape – the fact that it looks almost exactly as it did after the bombing means it serves as a reminder and symbol of peace. The memorial park serves the same purpose, and has museums, memorials and monuments dedicated to the memory of victims, education on what lead to the bomb’s use, as well as advocating world peace. In the afternoon you'll head for the serene, enchanting island of Miyajima, reached after a short ferry ride across the Inland Sea. The island is home to the venerable Shinto shrine of Itsukushima, famous for its huge bright orange gate (torii) that rises majestically out of the sea. At high tide it is considered to be one of the most beautiful sights in Japan. The size and physical landscape of Miyajima makes it an ideal place for walking. There is the lovely Momiji Park (known as Maple Valley), from where it is possible to walk or take a cable car up to the top of Mt Misen. Return to Hiroshima for the night and maybe try one of the city’s signature dishes for dinner – your leader will have some great suggestions!

Included Activities:
-Hiroshima - Peace Park & A - Bomb Dome
-Hiroshima - Peace Museum
-Hiroshima - Miyajima Island

Day 7: Tsumago

Location: Tsumago

Accommodation: Ryokan

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Board a bullet train to Nagoya, then change to an express train and continue north to the mountainous centre of Japan. You’ll spend a memorable night in a ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) near the medieval village of Tsumago. Once a post town (where travellers could rest on their journey around the country) during the days of the Shogun, Tsumago is the best preserved of the many staging posts along the Edo period Nakasendo Highway. The highway once connected Tokyo with Kyoto and was immortalised in the famous woodblock prints of Hiroshige. Cars are prohibited in the main street and cables run underground in order to maintain the medieval atmosphere of the town. You’ll have the opportunity to walk along a short section of the old Nakasendo Highway, walking from the post town of Magome along the highway to your accommodation at Tsumago, enjoying some great views across the valley along the way. In tonight’s ryokan, rooms are equipped with thin futon mattresses that are spread on tatami mats for a comfortable night's sleep. Tonight, you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner cooked in the ryokan.

Included Activities:
-Tsumago - Nakasendo Walk

Day 8: Matsumoto

Location: Matsumoto

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning you’ll have time to explore Tsumago and browse the local shops. You’ll then board a train and continue north to the picturesque castle town of Matsumoto. Matsumoto’s atmosphere is surprisingly cosmopolitan, while maintaining its historic charm and traditional streetscapes. This afternoon you'll stroll through the former merchant district of Nakamachi, lined with well preserved old buildings, where you can find local crafts, treasures and great restaurants. You’ll also have the option of visiting the city’s most famous site, the Matsumoto Castle, formerly known as Fukashi Castle. The regal-looking building has an elegant black roof and walls, and is sometimes nicknamed Crow Castle due to its resemblance to the bird spreading its wings. As the oldest original castle in the country (begun in 1592), it’s also one of Japan’s four castles listed as national treasures. You’ll spend the evening here in Matsumoto. Perhaps try the local soba noodles (some of the best in the country) and be sure to get some wasabi-based treats – the pristine waters from the alps make it grow particularly well here.

Included Activities:
-Matsumoto - walking tour

Optional Activities:
-Matsumoto - Matsumoto Castle

Day 9: Tokyo

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Location: Tokyo

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

In the morning, make your way by express train to Japan’s amazing capital – Tokyo – and to the hotel where you’ll be based for the next few days. Bursting with contemporary urban culture, there are many sides of Tokyo to explore, including fascinating museums, world-class shopping, bustling energy and futuristic architecture, as well as a gentler side of neighbourhood backstreets where citizens often reveal themselves – particularly outside of working hours – to be some of the friendliest of any capital city in the world. There are many vestiges of the past, with historic temples and shrines still to be found in some of the most unexpected places, as well as an abundance of parks and gardens – particularly exquisite in spring when the cherry trees and azaleas are in bloom. After you arrive, you have free time to explore – perhaps visit the expansive grounds and moat surrounding the Imperial Palace, then enjoy the myriad food options for dinner.

Day 10: Tokyo

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Location: Tokyo

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today you’ll undertake a varied, full-day tour of the city, beginning in the historic Asakusa area. This is one of the older and more traditional parts of Tokyo, and is often called the temple district. Here you’ll stop by Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple – founded almost 1400 years ago when Tokyo was nothing more than a fishing village. Browse the many interesting stalls – filled with tasty treats, crafts and souvenirs – that line the shopping street of Nakamise dori. After lunch you’ll enjoy an alternative view of Tokyo as you relax on a short cruise down the Sumida River. You’ll pass significant buildings like the Sky Tree Tower, Asahi Beer Hall with its distinctive roof-top sculpture, the Sumo Stadium and the former Tsukiji Fish Market complex, gliding under bridges that bisect the river before alighting at the delightful urban oasis of the Hama Rikyu gardens. Here you’ll have time to stroll along paths that were once the sole preserve of the Shogun, who would hunt ducks here in the feudal era. Later you can make your way to the luxurious shopping district of Ginza where, depending on the theatre schedule, you may have the chance to see a short performance of Kabuki, one of Japan’s more spectacular performing arts, or visit the food depachika basement floor of a department store to see the huge range of produce exquisitely displayed.

Included Activities:
-Tokyo - Sensoji Temple
-Tokyo - Sumida River Cruise
-Tokyo - Hama Rikyu Garden

Day 11: Tokyo

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Location: Tokyo

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your Japan adventure comes to an end today. With no activities planned, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent.

Optional Activities:
-Tokyo - Shinjuku-gyoen
-Tokyo - Meiji Jingu Shrine - Free
-Tokyo - Tokyo National Museum
-Tokyo - Imperial Palace - Free
-Tokyo - Samurai Museum
-Tokyo - Studio Ghibli Museum (advance bookings required - from)

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel/Ryokan (9 nights), Temple Stay (1 night)

  • Kyoto - Ryoanji Zen Garden

  • Kyoto - Nijo Castle

  • Kyoto - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

  • Kyoto - Gion District walk

  • Koya-san - Okunoin Cemetery

  • Himeji - Himeji Castle

  • Hiroshima - Peace Park & A - Bomb Dome

  • Hiroshima - Peace Museum

  • Hiroshima - Miyajima Island

  • Tsumago - Nakasendo Walk

show more

What's Not Included

  • International Travel

  • Tipping and Gratuities

Transport

  • Public Bus , Subway , Bullet Train , Train , Boat

Accommodation

  • RYOKANS & MINSHUKUS
  • Japanese-style accommodation - ryokans or minshukus (traditional inn/guesthouse) involve sleeping on futons or matresses on tatami mat floors, with bedding often packed away during the day. Attached bathrooms/toilets will usually be very small and many will only have shared bathing facilities with certain hours, or times available for booking at reception. Your leader will explain etiquette involved in using the shared facilities. As this style of accommodation will often not have furniture (ie. chairs or beds) in the rooms, please consider choosing a different trip style in Japan if you have difficulty getting up from the floor or have knee, hip or back issues. Some establishments may have a curfew when travellers need to be back in the accommodation - this is usually around midnight. Please also be aware that you would normally be required to change to slippers when entering into your room in such properties. Extra fees will be charged if dirty marks are left on their beddings or towels that require professional cleaning.
  • AVAILABILITY
  • The recent huge increase in tourism to Japan has put a lot of pressure on accommodation. On occasion, we may need to change accommodation from what is listed in the itinerary in order to operate your departure with minimal changes.
  • ONSENS
  • We like to encourage travellers to visit traditional Japanese 'onsens' while in the country as it is a quintessential local experience. In public onsens this means bathing naked with others of the same gender. While the experience can feel strange at first for some, most of our groups end up enjoying this activity. There is very specific etiquette for visiting onsens - your leader can give you some tips and instructions. Please be aware that travellers with tattoos may not be permitted to enter public onsens. Private onsens may also be available - talk to your leader for more information. See our guide to onsens here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/japan-onsen-guide/

Included Activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Kyoto - Ryoanji Zen Garden
  • Kyoto - Nijo Castle
  • Kyoto - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
  • Kyoto - Gion District walk
  • Koya-san - Okunoin Cemetery
  • Himeji - Himeji Castle
  • Hiroshima - Peace Park & A - Bomb Dome
  • Hiroshima - Peace Museum
  • Hiroshima - Miyajima Island
  • Tsumago - Nakasendo Walk
  • Matsumoto - walking tour
  • Tokyo - Sensoji Temple
  • Tokyo - Tokyo Cruise
  • Tokyo - Hama Rikyu Garden

Important Information

  • 1. We are currently unable to offer a single supplement, airport transfers or additional accommodation in Japan due to limited availability.
  • 2. It is essential that you pack light and compact for rail travel in Japan. Luggage size restrictions apply. Please review the Packing section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

Mode of Transport

  • Public Bus , Subway , Bullet Train , Train , Boat

Accommodation

  • RYOKANS/MINSHUKUS
  • Japanese-style accommodation - ryokans or minshukus (traditional inn/guesthouse) involve sleeping on futons or matresses on tatami mat floors, with bedding often packed away during the day. Attached bathrooms/toilets will usually be very small and many ryokans will only have shared bathing facilities with certain hours, or times available for booking at reception. Your leader will explain etiquette involved in using the shared facilities. As this style of accommodation will often not have furniture (ie. chairs or beds) in the rooms, please consider choosing a different trip style in Japan if you have difficulty getting up from the floor or have knee, hip or back issues. Some ryokans may have a curfew when travellers need to be back in the accommodation - this is usually around midnight. Please also be aware that you would normally be required to change to slippers when entering into your room in a ryokan. Hotels and ryokans will charge extra fees if dirty marks are left on their beddings or towels that require professional cleaning.
  • Read more about ryokans here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/traditional-japanese-ryokan/
  • AVAILABILITY
  • The recent huge increase in tourism to Japan has put a lot of pressure on accommodation. On occasion, we may need to change accommodation from what is listed in the itinerary in order to operate your departure with minimal changes.
  • ONSENS
  • We like to encourage travellers to visit traditional Japanese 'onsens' while in the country as it is a quintessential local experience. In public onsens this means bathing naked with others of the same gender. While the experience can feel strange at first for some, most of our groups end up enjoying this activity. There is very specific etiquette for visiting onsens - your leader can give you some tips and instructions. Please be aware that travellers with tattoos may not be permitted to enter public onsens. Private onsens may also be available - talk to your leader for more information. See our guide to onsens here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/japan-onsen-guide/

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    Japan is best explored on foot and by public transport. You’ll need to be fit enough to spend most of each day on your feet and able to handle your luggage as you navigate busy train stations. We recommend comfortable shoes and packing light.

    In some destinations, you may be staying in a ryokan, which is a Japanese-style inn. It's a great taste of tradition; however, not everyone finds futon mattresses on the tatami floor, tiny bathrooms and proximity to other guests as comfortable as more Western-style hotels. This is an important thing to consider if you have problems with your back or knees, as the surface is firm and there may be no other furniture (eg chairs) in the room. Read more about ryokans here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/traditional-japanese-ryokan/

    Double rooms in Japanese hotels can be smaller than you may be used to (e.g. 20 sqm). Every effort will be made to accommodate double room requests. However, during busy periods, there may be occasions when we are unable to offer a double room, so a twin room will be provided.

  • 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)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

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)  

I have just come back...

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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12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

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 :-)

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Sunday - Wednesday

May 18, 2025 - May 28, 2025
$6195 $5266

Operator discount: -$929

Wednesday - Saturday

May 21, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$5955 $5062

Operator discount: -$893

Sunday - Wednesday

May 25, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
$5955 $5062

Operator discount: -$893

Sunday - Wednesday

Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
$5725 $4866

Operator discount: -$859

Sunday - Wednesday

Jun 22, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025
$5725 $4866

Operator discount: -$859

Wednesday - Saturday

Jul 02, 2025 - Jul 12, 2025
$5725 $4866

Operator discount: -$859

Wednesday - Saturday

Jul 09, 2025 - Jul 19, 2025
$6390 $5432

Operator discount: -$958

Wednesday - Saturday

Jul 30, 2025 - Aug 09, 2025
$6390 $5432

Operator discount: -$958

Sunday - Wednesday

Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 27, 2025
$6390 $5432

Operator discount: -$958

Sunday - Wednesday

Aug 24, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025
$6390 $5432

Operator discount: -$958

Sunday - Wednesday

Aug 31, 2025 - Sep 10, 2025
$6390 $5432

Operator discount: -$958

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
$6645 $5648

Operator discount: -$997

Wednesday - Saturday

Sep 10, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025
$6645 $5648

Operator discount: -$997

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025
$6645 $5648

Operator discount: -$997

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 21, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
$6900 $5865

Operator discount: -$1035

Wednesday - Saturday

Sep 24, 2025 - Oct 04, 2025
$6900 $5865

Operator discount: -$1035

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
$6900 $5865

Operator discount: -$1035

Wednesday - Saturday

Oct 01, 2025 - Oct 11, 2025
$6900 $5865

Operator discount: -$1035

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
$6900 $5865

Operator discount: -$1035

Wednesday - Saturday

Oct 08, 2025 - Oct 18, 2025
$6900 $5865

Operator discount: -$1035

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$6900 $5865

Operator discount: -$1035

Wednesday - Saturday

Oct 15, 2025 - Oct 25, 2025
$6645 $5648

Operator discount: -$997

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$6645 $5648

Operator discount: -$997

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$6645 $5648

Operator discount: -$997

Sunday - Wednesday

Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$6645 $5648

Operator discount: -$997

Wednesday - Saturday

Nov 12, 2025 - Nov 22, 2025
$6390 $5432

Operator discount: -$958

Sunday - Wednesday

Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025
$6390 $5432

Operator discount: -$958

Sunday - Wednesday

Nov 23, 2025 - Dec 03, 2025
$6390 $5432

Operator discount: -$958

Sunday - Wednesday

Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 17, 2025
$5725 $4866

Operator discount: -$859

Sunday - Wednesday

Feb 15, 2026 - Feb 25, 2026
$6010

Sunday - Wednesday

Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 11, 2026
$6010

Sunday - Wednesday

Mar 08, 2026 - Mar 18, 2026
$6010

Sunday - Wednesday

Mar 15, 2026 - Mar 25, 2026
$6975

Friday - Monday

Mar 20, 2026 - Mar 30, 2026
$6975

Sunday - Wednesday

Mar 22, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$6975

Wednesday - Saturday

Mar 25, 2026 - Apr 04, 2026
$6975

Friday - Monday

Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 06, 2026
$7245

Sunday - Wednesday

Mar 29, 2026 - Apr 08, 2026
$7245

Monday - Thursday

Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 09, 2026
$7245

Wednesday - Saturday

Apr 01, 2026 - Apr 11, 2026
$7245

Thursday - Sunday

Apr 02, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$7245

Friday - Monday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 13, 2026
$7245

Sunday - Wednesday

Apr 05, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026
$7245

Monday - Thursday

Apr 06, 2026 - Apr 16, 2026
$7245

Wednesday - Saturday

Apr 08, 2026 - Apr 18, 2026
$7245

Thursday - Sunday

Apr 09, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$7245

Friday - Monday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 20, 2026
$6975

Sunday - Wednesday

Apr 12, 2026 - Apr 22, 2026
$6975

Monday - Thursday

Apr 13, 2026 - Apr 23, 2026
$6975

Thursday - Sunday

May 07, 2026 - May 17, 2026
$6975

Wednesday - Saturday

May 13, 2026 - May 23, 2026
$6250

Sunday - Wednesday

May 17, 2026 - May 27, 2026
$6250

Wednesday - Saturday

May 20, 2026 - May 30, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

May 24, 2026 - Jun 03, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

Jun 07, 2026 - Jun 17, 2026
$6010

Sunday - Wednesday

Jun 21, 2026 - Jul 01, 2026
$6010

Wednesday - Saturday

Jul 01, 2026 - Jul 11, 2026
$6010

Wednesday - Saturday

Jul 08, 2026 - Jul 18, 2026
$6010

Wednesday - Saturday

Jul 29, 2026 - Aug 08, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

Aug 16, 2026 - Aug 26, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

Aug 23, 2026 - Sep 02, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

Aug 30, 2026 - Sep 09, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 06, 2026 - Sep 16, 2026
$6975

Wednesday - Saturday

Sep 09, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
$6975

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 13, 2026 - Sep 23, 2026
$6975

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 20, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
$7245

Wednesday - Saturday

Sep 23, 2026 - Oct 03, 2026
$7245

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 27, 2026 - Oct 07, 2026
$7245

Wednesday - Saturday

Sep 30, 2026 - Oct 10, 2026
$7245

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 04, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026
$7245

Wednesday - Saturday

Oct 07, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026
$7245

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 11, 2026 - Oct 21, 2026
$7245

Wednesday - Saturday

Oct 14, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026
$6975

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 18, 2026 - Oct 28, 2026
$6975

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 25, 2026 - Nov 04, 2026
$6975

Sunday - Wednesday

Nov 08, 2026 - Nov 18, 2026
$6975

Wednesday - Saturday

Nov 11, 2026 - Nov 21, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

Nov 15, 2026 - Nov 25, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

Nov 22, 2026 - Dec 02, 2026
$6710

Sunday - Wednesday

Dec 06, 2026 - Dec 16, 2026
$6010

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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