Eastern Europe Explorer

Eastern Europe Explorer

899 Views
18 Days From

$3825

$3634

Eastern Europe Explorer

18 Days Starting in Budapest and ending in Istanbul

Visiting: Budapest, Eger, Maramures, Sighisoara, Viscri, Brasov, Bucharest, Veliko Tarnovo, Sofia, Bansko, Plovdiv, Istanbul

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

WMSEC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $3825 $3634 Operator discount: -$191

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Be mesmerised on this explorer tour through the best and most beautiful regions from Eastern Europe to Turkey. Explore the captivating cities of Budapest, Bucharest and Sofia and Istanbul. Sample culinary delights with local folk in Viscri, be inspired by the traditional craft workshops in Plovdiv, hear enthralling myths from Transylvania and visit the quaint town of Bansko, snug at the foot of the Pirin Mountains and bask in the transcontinental glory of Istanbul. This is a journey full of culture and history, of monuments, markets and museums, tantalising towns and charming cities.

Highlights

  • Rich in history, art, architecture, cuisine and nightlife, Budapest is a hot European destination. The Museum of Fine Arts offers free English tours that reveal the famous artwork of Monet, Manet and Goya, just to name a few

  • A homestay with a family in the Saxon village of Viscri in Romania offers insight into local life and the chance to sample some delicious home-cooked food

  • This trip takes you to a mix of exciting capital cities and quaint mountain villages through Eastern Europe all the way to the transcontinental Istanbul.

  • Transylvania is drenched in history and myth. Discover the medieval city of Sighisoara, the birthplace of one of Romania's most infamous figures, Vlad the Impaler - better known as the inspiration for Count Dracula

  • Journey deep into the forested valley of Rila to find the Monastery of Saint Ivan. Over 1,000 years old, this spectacular building is one of Bulgaria's most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Budapest

Location: Budapest

Szia! Welcome to Hungary. Since the collapse of communism, Budapest has experienced something of a renaissance. The grand architecture and boulevards evoke a time gone by, while glamorous stores and restaurants make this one of the truly great cities of Europe. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After, you might like to head out to explore the city by night – the twinkling lights of the evening are an essential part of the Budapest experience. Maybe visit the Jewish Quarter for dinner and explore the many options for a celebratory nightcap.

Day 2: Eger

Location: Eger

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, take a train east to Eger. This beautifully preserved Baroque town is surrounded by hills and is home to some of the most renowned vineyards in Eastern Europe. Visit the wine cellars of the seductively named Valley of the Beautiful Women to sample some of the town's famous 'Bull's Blood' red wine (which supposedly gave the Hungarian army supernatural strength during their battle against the Ottoman Empire). In your free time, maybe explore Eger's 13th-century castle, which was the scene of the historic siege that thwarted the Ottoman Empire's advancement into Western Europe. Here, you can explore the Gothic Palace, a gallery of fine Hungarian art, and tour underground passageways of archaeological finds. You may also like to check out the town's 19th-century cathedral, the northernmost medieval minaret in Europe for views of the city, or the Minorite church in Dobo Square.

Included Activities:
-Eger - Wine Sampling

Optional Activities:
-Eger - Castle
-Eger - Minaret
-Eger - Astronomy Museum, Camera Obscura, Panoramic terrace in the Lyceum building
-Eger - Town Under The Town

Day 3: Maramures

Location: Maramures

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This morning, travel to the pleasant town of Debrecen. While here, you'll have time to explore Deri Square with its fountains, colourful buildings, museums and golden Great Church. Continue by train and private vehicle across the central plains into the Maramures region of Romania – this region may be modernising, but among the traditional wooden houses, churches, music and forests, you can still find parts of life unchanged since medieval times. When you arrive, settle into your room at the pension – your accommodation for the night is run by a local family. Sit down for a homecooked dinner with your group and get to know the locals, their stories and their lifestyle.

Day 4: Maramures

Location: Maramures

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Today you’ll discover more about the region of Maramures (mah-ra-moo-resh). Rich in tradition and folklore, the music, costumes, festivals and ancient superstitions of one of the last peasant cultures in Europe continue to thrive here. Maramures is particularly famed for its wooden churches, many of which are World Heritage-listed. Set out on a guided group tour to explore the region, visiting the unique Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, where the life stories of the deceased are displayed on colourful wooden crosses. There are poems, limericks and little pictures illustrating how the person died, all single-handedly carved over 40 years by Stan Ioan Patraş, until 1977 when his apprentice took up the work. You’ll also see other traditional villages including the village museum in Sighetu – an assembly of beautiful local wooden architecture.

Included Activities:
-Maramures - Day Tour with Local Guide
-Maramures - Sapanta Merry Cemetery
-Maramures - Barsana Monastery

Day 5: Sighisoara

Location: Sighisoara

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, get ready for a scenic drive to Sighisoara – while the name may conjure up images of haunted castles, gothic churches and vampires, this is only a small part of what makes Transylvania such an enchanting and exciting destination. Medieval Sighisoara is likely to seduce visitors more than any other place in Romania. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town was first settled by the Romans but flourished under the Saxons from the 12th century. Take a walk around the old town, which coils up a narrow hill surrounded on all sides by fortified walls and explore the 64-metre-high clock tower that dominates the citadel. The town is famed as the birthplace of Vlad Dracul III, better known as Vlad the Impaler, whose name inspired Bram Stoker’s iconic Count Dracula. Vlad III is revered as a folk hero by Romanians for driving off the invading Ottoman Turks, of which his impaled victims are said to have included as many as 100,000. Tonight, maybe sit down for a traditional Romanian dinner at Casa Dracula.

Optional Activities:
-Sighisoara - Church of the Dominican Monastery
-Sighisoara - Covered Stairway - Free
-Sighisoara - Church on the Hill
-Sighisoara - The Clock Tower

Day 6: Viscri

Location: Viscri

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This morning, take a short drive to the village of Viscri – this small Transylvanian village was originally inhabited by Saxons from the Luxembourg area and the rural landscape is picture-perfect. This idyllic village of red tiled roofs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, virtually unchanged for 900 years. You’ll visit the town's fortified church (thought to be the oldest in Transylvania) and learn about the Sock Project, which supports the local Roma community. Time permitting, you may even like to go for a horse cart ride through the area, over pastures and through wondrous woods of oak and hornbeam. In the evening, indulge in a home-cooked dinner prepared by a local family, sampling fresh produce, homemade wines and schnapps. Tonight, stay in rustic houses that the locals rent out to visitors.

Included Activities:
-Viscri - Local Home Cooked Dinner
-Viscri - Sock Project
-Viscri - Fortified Church

Optional Activities:
-Viscri - Prince Charles House

Day 7: Brasov

Location: Brasov

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, you’ll continue to Brasov. Also known by its German name of Kronstadt, the town is flanked by mountains and was once a major medieval trading centre. When you arrive, enjoy some free time to wander, take an optional activity or just find a good spot to eat and people-watch. The town's main attraction is the gothic Black Church (Biserica Neagra), which took its name from its blackened appearance after a fire in 1689. Maybe stroll along pedestrianised Strada Republicii, take a cable car up to Mt Tampa, or maybe explore the nearby Rasnov Fortress. The fortification is perched on a rocky hilltop above the town of Rasnov and was constructed by Teutonic Knights in the 13th century as a refuge for the common people from Tartar invaders.

Optional Activities:
-Brasov - The Black Church
-Brasov - Walking Tour with Local Guide
-Rasnov - Fortress
-Brasov - Cable Car to Mt Tampa

Day 8: Brasov

Location: Brasov

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today after breakfast, you’ll visit the famed Bran Castle. Said to be the inspiration for the home of Bram Stoker's Dracula, the castle isn’t too spooky, but it is undeniably impressive. Perched on a high cliff top and surrounded by pine trees, you’ll explore the castle with your leader and group – this is the perfect photo op! After, travel back to Brasov and enjoy free time to explore, checking out the ornate churches, townhouses and squares surrounded by gingerbread-roofed merchants' houses. For those looking for a bit of nightlife tonight, Brasov has plenty of funky bars and restaurants to enjoy once darkness falls.

Included Activities:
-Bran Castle - Tour

Day 9: Bucharest

Location: Bucharest

Meals Included: breaksfast

Head south to Bucharest on the train today – the city is increasingly known for its cosmopolitan vibe and energy. While not the most beautiful or stylish city, there are some wonderful art nouveau buildings, ancient churches and monasteries, lush parklands, lakes and elegant boulevards. Romania's capital also likes big things – it’s home to one of Europe's biggest squares, and its Palace of Parliament is the second-largest building in the world! You'll embark on a guided walking tour around town to help you get your bearings, and then you have loads of free time to choose your own adventure. Explore some of the sights further or maybe seek out some traditional home-cooked Romanian food with your fellow travellers.

Included Activities:
-Bucharest - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:
-Bucharest - Bike Tour
-Bucharest - Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Tour
-Bucharest - Village Museum
-Bucharest - Palace of Parliament Tour
-Bucharest - Romanian Athenaeum
-Bucharest - Former Ceausescu Residence

Day 10: Bucharest

Location: Bucharest

Accommodation: Hotel

Salut! Welcome to Romania. Bucharest, Romania's capital city, likes big things. It's home to one of Europe's biggest squares and its Palace of Parliament is the second largest building in the world. It's worth arriving into the city a few days early to explore. Perhaps take a tour of the Palace of Parliament (former dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu ordered the construction of this 12-storied monster, a building of staggering scale and opulence that includes 1,100 rooms and 4,500 chandeliers), or visit his former luxurious residence where he lived with the family. You might even like to partake in one of our Urban Adventure day trips, such as the "Bohemian Bucharest tour".  Our adventure begins with a important welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you'll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. Afterwards, why not seek out some traditional Romanian fare with the group.

Optional Activities:
-Bucharest - Palace of Parliament Tour
-Bucharest - Village Museum
-Bucharest - Bike Tour
-Bucharest - Former Ceausescu Residence
-Bucharest - Romanian Athenaeum
-Bucharest - Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest

Day 11: Veliko Tarnovo

Location: Veliko Tarnovo

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Travel by train across the friendship bridge into Bulgaria and on to the picturesque town of Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo's history is incredible. Founded in 4500 BC by the Neolithic people, the Romans later built the first fortress walls and in the 6th century a Byzantine capital was established on Tsarevets Hill by Emperor Justinian. After the foundation of the second Bulgarian empire in 1185, it became the second most important and beautiful city in the region (after Constantinople) and trade and culture flourished for the next 200 years. In 1393 the town fell to the Turks who held the city until the Russians liberated it in 1877. Because of its importance during the second Bulgarian empire, the city was chosen as the place where the Bulgarian constitution was written in 1879 and where the official proclamation of Bulgaria as an independent state was made in 1908.

Day 12: Veliko Tarnovo

Location: Veliko Tarnovo

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning join your leader for a visit to Veliko Tarnovo's imposing Tsarevets Fortress which overlooks the city. This once-magnificent fortress was first built in the 7th century and the ruined citadel is a delight to wander through. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the City of Tsars. Wander through the Old Quarter with its preserved Renaissance houses and handicraft workshops before relaxing in one of the town's cafes or 'vinarnas' (wine bars).

Included Activities:
-Veliko Tarnovo - Tsarevets Fortress

Optional Activities:
-Veliko Tarnovo - Archeological Museum

Day 13: Sofia

Location: Sofia

Accommodation: Hotel

In a morning, take a public bus (3 hrs approximately) to Sofia. Bulgaria's capital is a cosmopolitan city with wide tree-lined boulevards and pleasant parks. You've got the rest of the day to wander, so maybe begin with a browse around the cured meats and cheese of the Central Market Hall, then take a walk through the city and see the gold-domed Alexander Nevski Church. You might want to sate your cultural curiosity at the National History Museum, discover artefacts from the many empires of old that have occupied the city at the National Archaeological Museum, or get cultural at the National Art Gallery.

Optional Activities:
-Sofia - National Art Gallery
-Sofia - Aleksander Nevski Church - Free
-Sofia - National History Museum
-Sofia - The Red Flat
-Sofia - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Day 14: Bansko

Location: Bansko

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today journey into the Rila Mountains, where you'll visit the impressive Rila Monastery. Tucked away in a valley, this World Heritage-listed site is the largest and holiest of Bulgaria's orthodox monasteries. It was founded in 927 to keep Bulgarian spiritual and social life alive during Turkish rule. The entire monastery complex is a work of art in itself – check out stunning murals, the 14th-century Hrelyo Tower, the five-domed Birth of the Blessed Virgin Church and the original 19th-century monastery kitchen. Then onto Bansko. Set at the base of the majestic Pirin Mountains, Bansko is home to more than 150 cultural monuments. Down its cobbled streets, many of its stone houses have been transformed into charming ‘mehanes’ (taverns). Wander through pl. Vazrazhdane and check out the frescoes of the Church of Sveta Troitsa, or the paintings in the Rilski Convent. In the evening, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in some local cuisine. Try filet elena (spicy cured meat) or kapama (simmered meat, rice and sauerkraut), washing it down with some delicious melnik (dark red wine).

Included Activities:
-Rila - Monastery Visit

Optional Activities:
-Bansko - Spa Visit

Day 15: Plovdiv

Location: Plovdiv

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

In the morning, drive to Vihren Chalet (45 mins approximately) from where you start the moderate hike in the Pirin Mountains to a small but picturesque lake Okoto (2000m above the sea level). Enjoy the clear views over the stunning valley with Mt Vihren, the range's highest peak, visible to the west. Total walking distance is 2 km with 102 m elevation gain and it takes about one hour depending on fitness and trail conditions. Those who want to challenge it a bit more can continue to Banderitsko lake, your leader willl help with suggesting the route. If you don't wish to hike can stay in Bansko and visit it's thermal baths. In the afternoon board scenic and only operational narrow gauge line in Bulgaria - Rhodope railway from Bansko to Septemvri from where continue by another to Plovdiv. Situated on the Maritsa River, Plovdiv was once the meeting point of two ancient transportation routes. In the evening, make sure you indulge in the local cuisine, famed for its grilled meats and vegetables on skewers.

Included Activities:
-Pirin Mountains - Hike
-Rhodope Narrow-Gauge Railway
-Plovdiv-Private Transfer from Plovdiv Train Station to Plovdiv Hotel

Day 16: Plovdiv

Location: Plovdiv

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, join a local guide for a tour of the main sights and some insight into the town's history. The most remarkable sight is the ancient Roman theatre, accidentally ‘discovered’ after a landslide exposed the site in the early 1970s. Built in the 2nd century BC during the reign of Trajanus, the theatre seats about 6,000 people and is now back in use. From here, wander up to the site of the former hilltop fortress of Nebet Tepe, where you can enjoy excellent views of the city. Head back down to visit the 15th-century Dzhumaya Mosque, still in use today. Enjoy a free afternoon in this charming city.

Included Activities:
-Plovdiv - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:
-Plovdiv - Bachkovo Monastery
-Plovdiv - Hisarya Hot Springs

Day 17: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Get ready for a long day of travel that takes you from Europe to Asia today. Grab a window seat if you can and watch the scenery pass you by, or get stuck into a good book. You'll be travelling how the locals do, on a bus along the Tsarigrad Road. Also named the Road to Istanbul, this was one of the most important roads in the Middle Ages, widely used by travelling merchants. Arrive in Istanbul, the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have called home. You'll have some free time to settle in, then in the evening, maybe join your new friends for an optional dinner and bask in the beauty of a real Turkish kebab.

Included Activities:
-Istanbul- Private Transfer from Istanbul Bus Station to Istanbul Hotel
-Plovdiv- Private Transfer from Plovdiv Hotel to Plovdiv Bus Station

Day 18: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: breaksfast

All good things come to an end, and this morning your adventure officially comes to a close. If you would like to extend your stay in Istanbul we are able to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Optional Activities:
-Istanbul - Hagia Sophia
-Istanbul - Archaeology Museum
-Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
-Istanbul - Galata Tower
-Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat)

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (14 nights), Pension (2 night), Homestay with shared facilities (1 night)

  • Eger - Wine Sampling

  • Maramures - Day Tour with Local Guide

  • Maramures - Sapanta Merry Cemetery

  • Maramures - Barsana Monastery

  • Viscri - Local Home Cooked Dinner

  • Viscri - Sock Project

  • Viscri - Fortified Church

  • Bran Castle - Tour

  • Bucharest - Walking Tour with Local Guide

  • Veliko Tarnovo - Tsarevets Fortress

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN EUROPE
  • Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.
  • LONG TRAVEL DAYS
  • As we cover lots of ground on this trip, expect some long travel days on local trains and buses. This is an opportunity to mix with the locals and enjoy the scenery out the window. Travel schedules are known to change with little notice. Not all transport may have air conditioning.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
  • TWIN SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.
  • CHECK-IN TIME
  • Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
  • PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
  • If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
  • FACILITIES
  • Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.

Included Activities

  • Eger - Wine Tasting
  • Maramures - Day Tour with Local Guide
  • Maramures - Sapanta Merry Cemetery
  • Maramures - Barsana Monastery
  • Viscri - Fortified Church
  • Viscri - Sock Project
  • Viscri - Local Home Cooked Dinner
  • Bucharest - Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Veliko Tarnovo - Tsarevets Fortress
  • Plovdiv - Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Bansko - Belitsa Bear Sanctuary
  • Pirin Mountains - Hike & Chairlift
  • Rila - Monastery Visit

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is bookable on this trip, excluding Day 6. Availability is limited due to small properties we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. You don't have a lot of time in Istanbul at the end of the trip, so if you're keen to explore in depth we recommend you extend your stay at the end of the trip.
  • 3. As this is a combination of 2 trips, your leader and the composition of your group may change in Bucharest.

Mode of Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN EUROPE
  • Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.
  • LONG TRAVEL DAYS
  • As we cover lots of ground on this trip, expect some long travel days on local trains and buses. This is an opportunity to mix with the locals and enjoy the scenery out the window. Travel schedules are known to change with little notice. Not all transport may have air conditioning.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

    Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. This trip is a great opportunity to get to know other travellers, so embrace it while you can. Please also note that some accommodation used on this trip offer shared bathrooms rather than en-suite facilities.

    This trip involves some travel by public bus or train, including a few long journeys of up to seven hours. Although this can be a bit tiresome, it's a great way to meet locals and relax while enjoying the passing scenery.

    As you will have the opportunity to visit several orthodox churches on this trip, please ensure you cover your legs, shoulders and chest and show the appropriate respect. It's a good idea to bring a light scarf to cover your skin as needed.

    If you have more time to explore the region you can extend your trip by starting your travels in Vienna to see the best of Central Europe before heading to Romania and then Bulgaria. Check out our trip 'Journey through Central Europe & Romania' (trip code AMSCC). Most departure dates are designed to create these perfect combination trips.

    On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

  • 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  

North American Adventure

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 :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025
$3825 $3634

Operator discount: -$191

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 19, 2025 - May 06, 2025
$3825 $3634

Operator discount: -$191

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 26, 2025 - May 13, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 03, 2025 - May 20, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 10, 2025 - May 27, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 17, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 24, 2025 - Jun 10, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 17, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 14, 2025 - Jul 01, 2025
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 21, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 22, 2025
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 29, 2025
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025
$3825

Wednesday - Saturday

Aug 06, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 16, 2025 - Sep 02, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 09, 2025
$4130

Wednesday - Saturday

Aug 27, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
$4130

Wednesday - Saturday

Sep 03, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 07, 2025
$4170

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 18, 2025 - Nov 04, 2025
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 21, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 11, 2026 - Apr 28, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 18, 2026 - May 05, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 25, 2026 - May 12, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

May 02, 2026 - May 19, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 09, 2026 - May 26, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 16, 2026 - Jun 02, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 23, 2026 - Jun 09, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

May 30, 2026 - Jun 16, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 06, 2026 - Jun 23, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 13, 2026 - Jun 30, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 20, 2026 - Jul 07, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 27, 2026 - Jul 14, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 04, 2026 - Jul 21, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 28, 2026
$3825

Wednesday - Saturday

Jul 15, 2026 - Aug 01, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 18, 2026 - Aug 04, 2026
$3825

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 01, 2026 - Aug 18, 2026
$3980

Wednesday - Saturday

Aug 05, 2026 - Aug 22, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 25, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 15, 2026 - Sep 01, 2026
$3980

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 22, 2026 - Sep 08, 2026
$4130

Wednesday - Saturday

Aug 26, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 15, 2026
$4130

Wednesday - Saturday

Sep 02, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 22, 2026
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 19, 2026 - Oct 06, 2026
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 26, 2026 - Oct 13, 2026
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 03, 2026 - Oct 20, 2026
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 10, 2026 - Oct 27, 2026
$4130

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 17, 2026 - Nov 03, 2026
$3980

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.

Similar Tours