Real Rajasthan

16 Days Starting and ending in Delhi

Visiting: Delhi, Delhi - Overnight Train, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jaisalmer - Thar Desert, Jaisalmer - Jodphur, Jodphur, Khinwara, Udaipur, Jaipur, Agra, Agra - Delhi

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HHYJ

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $735 $588 Operator discount: -$147 -20%

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

If you’re looking for an authentic slice of the real Rajasthan, this epic 16-day adventure through India is all you could ask for. Camp under the starry night sky in between desert sand dunes, explore Jodhpur’s markets, learn how to cook your new favourite dishes with a cooking class in Bikaner, traverse Jaipur’s temples and witness the Taj Mahal in the morning light – you can tick this Wonder of the World off the bucket list! With all of this and more, India will definitely exceed all expectations. Get ready for tasty feeds, chaotic streets and?enough sensory stimulation to last a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Prepare yourself for one very memorable night out in the Thar Desert, where you’ll share a feast at sunset and bunk down to camp between the sand dunes under a blanket of desert stars.

  • Witness one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Taj Mahal – bathed in the morning light. Take your time here, taking in the majesty of this manmade wonder and learn all there is to know from a local guide.

  • Sit down and feast your eyes on an optional Bollywood blockbuster in the coolest cinema in the country – the stylish Raj Mandir Cinema in Jaipur.

  • Experience an authentic Indian market at Jodhpur’s Sadar Bazaar – practice your haggling skills and make sure you bring an extra empty bag for all the trinkets you'll find at one of India’s oldest markets.

  • See Delhi from a new perspective on a bicycle rickshaw ride through the chaotic streets of this epic city. Take in the beauty of Jama Masjid and rub shoulders with the locals in Sheeshganj Gurudwara, where all are welcome despite religion, caste or gender.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. Donations help them to nurture ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives that inspire coastal restoration, sustainable fishing practices and waste-managemen

  • Witness one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Taj Mahal. Take your time here, taking in the majesty of this manmade wonder and learn all there is to know from a local guide.

  • Visit a local family in Bikaner for a cooking demonstration of regional delights, like chai and chapati. As you get to know the woman and her daughters, you’ll pick up some tips and tricks, try them out for yourself, then sit down for dinner together.

  • Get an insight into local, rural life at your homestay in Khinwara – life here is slow paced, so this is the perfect chance to stop and take a moment to relax.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins in Delhi – the capital of India – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not hit the streets and try and get into the Delhi flow of life. If you’re a history buff, there’s the 14th-century Humayun's Tomb or 11th-century Qutub Minar to explore. There’s also the former residence of royal families and British soldiers – the mighty Red Fort. After your meeting, maybe continue the introductions over an optional group dinner. Ask your leader for local favourites like a plate of chicken tikka masala or vegetarian curry (with naan bread, obviously) or head out to explore the nightlife.

Optional Activities:
-Delhi - Humayun's Tomb
-Delhi - Qutub Minar
-Delhi - Red Fort

Day 2: Delhi - Overnight Train

Location: Delhi - Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight Train

Head out on a walking tour around the commercial heart of Delhi, visiting Chandni Chowk (Sheeshganj Gurudwara) and Connaught Place along the way. Explore Old Delhi on a bicycle rickshaw to dig that little bit deeper and visit Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib – one of the oldest and most iconic Sikh shrines in Delhi – and try your hand at making chapatis in the community kitchen. This shrine is visited by devotees regularly, and everyone is welcome here, regardless of their religion or gender. Tonight, embark on a journey through the heart of India on an overnight train to Bikaner.

Included Activities:
-Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
-Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
-Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)

Day 3: Bikaner

Location: Bikaner

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, you’ll arrive in the fortified town of Bikaner – a city in Rajasthan that still displays its ancient opulence through palaces and forts built of red sandstone that have withstood the passage of time. When you arrive, head out on an orientation tour with your leader. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or explore the city more in-depth - maybe you can head out on a tuk-tuk tour of the Old City. Keep an eye out for delicious street food like bhujia (chickpea chips) or tuck into a thali tonight for dinner. 

Included Activities:
-Bikaner - Leader-led walking tour

Day 4: Bikaner

Location: Bikaner

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

Today, you have free time to explore at your own pace – it's highly recommended you head to the Junagarh Fort if you haven’t already! You could try the iconic Chunilal sharbat (a sweet cordial prepared with fruit or flower petals) along the way. Tonight, rejoin your group for a fun cooking demonstration with a local family. Watch how they prepare chai and roll chapati (Indian flatbread) and have a go yourself! Learn how aloe vera is a delicacy in this region and chat to the local women as they teach you some tips and tricks to bring home. After, you’ll all enjoy dinner together.

Included Activities:
-Bikaner - Cooking Demonstration

Optional Activities:
-Bikaner - Junagarh Fort

Day 5: Jaisalmer

Location: Jaisalmer

Accommodation: Guesthouse

This morning, take a local train to the yellow sandstone citadel of Jaisalmer. When you arrive in this ‘living fort,’ you’ll have free time to rest and recharge. Later, head out on an orientation walk with your leader through the snaking alleyways, filled with markets and intricately carved houses. Then, maybe ask your leader for their favourite local places to eat and grab some delicious local cuisine.

Included Activities:
-Jaisalmer - Leader-led walking tour

Optional Activities:
-Jaisalmer - Folklore Museum

Day 6: Jaisalmer - Thar Desert

Location: Jaisalmer - Thar Desert

Accommodation: Camping (basic facilities)

Meals Included: dinner

Spend today exploring the desert oasis of Jaisalmer – a former medieval trading centre that sort of looks like a giant sandcastle. This afternoon, chuck your essentials in an overnight bag, then hop in a 4WD to ride out to tonight’s camp in style. Traverse the sweeping dunes of the Thar Desert, then help set up camp while the guides get the fire started and ready for your vegetarian campfire feast, which includes chapati, dal, rice and veggies. You’ll be sleeping out in the open tonight, with mattresses, pillows, sheets and blankets provided. There’s no need for a tent – you wouldn’t want to miss the incredible starry sky tonight!

Included Activities:
-Thar Desert - Overnight Desert Camp

Day 7: Jaisalmer - Jodphur

Location: Jaisalmer - Jodphur

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: breaksfast

The crack of dawn is your wake-up call this morning – don’t worry, it's worth it! You'll soon see that not much can match up to a desert sunrise. After a simple breakfast and a morning display of light and colour, climb back into your 4WD and return to the city. Enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace before jumping on a train to the famous blue city of Jodphur. Tonight, you’ll have a unique experience in a family-run homestay right in the heart of the old town.

Day 8: Jodphur

Location: Jodphur

Accommodation: Homestay

Today you’re free to explore at your own pace. Maybe bargain at Sadar Bazaar – one of the oldest markets in India. Built around a clock tower, it’s packed with spice and vegetable markets, juice sellers and sari materials. Whatever you’re into, you’ll probably be able to grab it here – there are numerous vendors with carts selling everything from Bollywood soundtracks to armfuls of sparkling bangles. And don’t miss the street snacks! From the chaos of the market, maybe head to the Mehrangarh Fort, which sits up on a hill looking over the town. Take in the views from its ramparts, which dominate the city's skyline. This is probably the best preserved of all of Rajasthan’s hundreds of forts and gives you a great idea of what life would’ve been like as a royal.

Included Activities:
-Jodhpur - Leader-led walking tour

Optional Activities:
-Jodhpur - Meherangarh Fort Elevator
-Jodhpur - Meherangarh Fort
-Jodhpur - Bishnoi villages day trip

Day 9: Khinwara

Location: Khinwara

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: dinner

Today, you’ll head off the beaten path to Khinwara for a heritage homestay experience. Watch the landscape transition from the desert to the lakes of Udaipur. At your homestay, you’ll have free time to settle in and relax, chat with your hosts or maybe head out on an optional drive to a local farm – where you’ll wander the farm, then meet with the family for chai and cookies, getting a unique insight into local life.

Included Activities:
-Khinwara - Heritage Homestay

Optional Activities:
-Khinwara - Local Farm Visit

Day 10: Udaipur

Location: Udaipur

Accommodation: Heritage Property

Say goodbye to your hosts before travelling on to Udaipur this morning – there’s no doubt this place lives up to its rep as India’s most romantic city. Rolling hills, white marble palaces and lakes come together, and it’s a place where artists, dancers and musicians perfect their craft. There are also great shopping opportunities, with miniature paintings the speciality if you’re looking for a souvenir. Walk around town to get your bearings, then explore Udaipur's twisting alleys filled with silver, shoes, bags, leather goods and paintings. The rest of the afternoon is free to maybe head out on the water for a sunset boat ride on Pichola Lake, seeing Lake Palace and Jag Mandir Island as the sun goes down. After, why not have dinner on a rooftop overlooking the lake.

Included Activities:
-Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour

Day 11: Udaipur

Location: Udaipur

Accommodation: Heritage Property

Today, enjoy loads of free time to explore Udaipur. You could check out the City Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in India, and see the unbelievable treasures within – from vivid murals to antiques and royal utensils. Feeling peckish? Join the famous Spice Box cooking school and spend a half-day learning the secrets of Indian cuisine. With lessons on preparation and cooking, you'll whip up a full Indian meal in no time.

Optional Activities:
-Udaipur - Lake Pichola boat ride
-Udaipur - City Palace
-Udaipur - Cooking class

Day 12: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation: Heritage Property

Travel to the Pink City of Jaipur early this morning – the streets of this earthy red town are busy with camels, motorbikes and rickshaws, and you’ll walk past traditionally dressed Rajputs while monkeys climb wires overhead. Haggle to your heart's content in Jaipur's bazaars and backstreets, filled with textiles, semi-precious gems and blue pottery. Drop by one of India’s finest palaces – the Royal City Palace – a gorgeous complex with various courtyard gates and museums. Tonight, you might want to experience the cinema like never before with an extravagant Bollywood blockbuster at the stylish Raj Mandir Cinema – there’s usually romance, drama and music all rolled into one.

Included Activities:
-Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour

Optional Activities:
-Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema

Day 13: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation: Heritage Property

For anyone that wants to see the Pink City a bit differently this morning, there’s the option to drift high over Jaipur in a hot air balloon – a highlight for many visitors. With your free time, maybe drop by Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) – the impressive five-storey facade with pink, honeycombed windows make it the most photographed building in the country after the Taj Mahal. Then, head out to the old capital of Amber and explore the hilltop fort complex known as the Amber Fort. The Sheesh Mahal inside the fort is a must-see, as the walls are completely covered in little mirrors and the hall illuminates with the light of a single match! If you like, you can hit the streets for raj kachori chaat (a big fluffy chaat served with chutney, yoghurt, chilli and potato). This afternoon, maybe cool off with a lassi from Lassiwala on MI road – Jaipur's oldest and most famous lassi shop.

Included Activities:
-Jaipur - Amber Fort

Optional Activities:
-Jaipur - City Palace
-Jaipur - Balloon Safari
-Jaipur - Bollywood Dance Class

Day 14: Agra

Location: Agra

Accommodation: Hotel

Head east by public bus to Agra – home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. When you arrive, you’ll head to the most iconic sight in India. The Taj Mahal will exceed all expectations when the light shimmers off its white marble surface. Take your time soaking up the sight of this wonder, learn all about its history from a local guide and make sure to grab your iconic photo. After, maybe jump on a motorised rickshaw to pick out the rest of the city’s monuments, like Akbar's Mausoleum – a beautiful sandstone and marble tomb built for the greatest of the Mughal emperors.

Included Activities:
-Agra - Taj Mahal

Optional Activities:
-Agra - Agra Fort

Day 15: Agra - Delhi

Location: Agra - Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, you might want to return to the Taj Mahal for sunrise and see the iconic structure in a new light. Then, you’ll hop on a train back to Delhi. When you arrive, you’re free to rest and recharge or head out for some delicious local eats. Tonight, why not grab a quiet drink with your group and cheers to a trip well-travelled.

Day 16: Delhi

Location: Delhi

There are no further activities planned for today and your trip comes to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (5 nights), Overnight Train (1 night), Guesthouse (1 night), Camping (basic facilities) (1 night), Homestay (3 nights), Heritage Property (4 nights)

  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour

  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque

  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)

  • Thar Desert - Overnight Desert Camp

  • Jaisalmer - Leader-led walking tour

  • Jodhpur - Leader-led walking tour

  • Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour

  • Pushkar - Leader-led walking tour

  • Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour

  • Jaipur - Amber Fort

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Included Activities

  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
  • Delhi - Jama Masjid
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
  • Jaisalmer - Camel safari & overnight desert camp
  • Jaisalmer - Leader-led walking tour
  • Jodhpur - Leader-led walking tour
  • Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour
  • Pushkar - Leader-led walking tour
  • Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
  • Jaipur - Amber Fort
  • Agra - Taj Mahal

Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN INDIA:
  • Main roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. if you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.
  • TRAVEL TIMES:
  • Distances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.
  • TRAINS:
  • India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.
  • From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip will may to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
  • The Indian Railway system is one of the largest railway networks in the world and quite complex. Seat allocation is completely computerized on a centralized reservation system and we do not have control over seat allocations. Despite booking tickets months in advance of a departure your group's seats, or sleeping berths on overnight trains, maybe spread out within one carriage or multiple carriages of the same class. There’s a chance you’ll be sharing a compartment with local travelers of either gender.
  • For a detailed look into the experience of travelling by overnight trains read more here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/india-trains-guide/
  • AUTO RICKSHAWS:
  • On this trip, we travel on the local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
  • FLIGHTS:
  • Airlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.

Accommodation

  • 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 / MULTI SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. 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 a different Intrepid trip 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 (subject to availability), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
  • ACCOMMODATION:
  • Some of the accommodation along the way is basic or simple, staying in local guesthouses and homestays. Some may have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only. We use a mixture of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.
  • SHOWERS:
  • Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.
  • ROOM ISSUES:
  • If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your tour leader right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
  • SLEEPER TRAINS IN INDIA:
  • Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned (fan-cooled at times), a great way to travel long distances and still get maximum time in each place. Depending on the route, we travel 2AC or 3AC class as not all classes are available on all routes. Due to the complexity of the ticket purchasing system and high demand for tickets, we are unable to offer upgrades to other classes.
  • Second Class or 2 Tier AC (2AC) carriages have 4 berths in the compartment section and 2 berths in the aisle bay and individual reading lights. Third Class or 3 Tier AC (3AC) has 6 berths in the compartment and 2 in the aisle bay. Both have curtains for privacy. There are no sinks or charging points in these classes. During the day, bunks are folded away and serve as seats. Toilet facilities are located at either end of the carriage. There is usually an Indian style squat toilet at one end and a western-style toilet at the other. You will need your own toilet paper or tissues and cleanliness will depend on the number of people using them.
  • Beds are padded bunks, with sheets, pillow and blanket provided. Some people prefer to bring and use their own sleeping sheet. Your luggage travels with you on the train, so packing light will make your journey more comfortable.
  • Many trains have a dining carriage or a food/snack cart that is brought through the carriages. There are also plenty of vendors selling tea, coffee, water and snacks during the journey, although the hygiene may not be up to standards you are used to at home.
  • Please note you may be sharing with other members of your group or locals on a mixed gender basis. Tickets are booked on a real-name basis using your passport details. We book for all members of the group at the same time, but unfortunately, this is no guarantee that we will be accommodated all together on the train. Your leader will do their best to swap with other travellers to allow people who booked together to travel together, but please be aware that this is not always possible. We may at times ask male travellers to swap with solo female travellers for safety considerations.
  • DESERT CAMPING
  • Bedding, blankets and pillows are provided and we sleep on a camp style cot in the open air. Sleeping bags are recommended as it can get very cold at night. The camp is very simple with a windbreak, and set up against a sand dune. It’s a great experience to wake up under the stars in the desert. Simple vegetarian meals will be prepared by our local team for dinner and breakfast (included). Water and soft drinks are available for purchase. Toilets are a very basic long drop style. There is no shower and many travellers recommend bringing hand sanitizer, a small hand towel or some wet wipes (don't forget to carry them and any other rubbish out again).

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 2 (Overnight train) and Day 6 (Camping) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Hot air balloon flights are operated by Sky Waltz in Jaipur. Flights operate from September 1st to April 30th and last approximately 60 mins. Return transfers, tea and coffee plus light refreshments and a certificate of flight are included in the cost. You can register your interest and pay your tour leader at your joining meeting on day 1 of your trip. Payment must be made by cash in either INR/AUD/USD/GBP only. Flights are subject to availability and weather conditions (tickets are fully refundable in case of bad weather).
  • 3. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport. Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.

Mode of Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN INDIA:
  • Main roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. if you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.
  • TRAVEL TIMES:
  • Distances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.
  • TRAINS:
  • India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.
  • From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip will may to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
  • The Indian Railway system is one of the largest railway networks in the world and quite complex. Seat allocation is completely computerized on a centralized reservation system and we do not have control over seat allocations. Despite booking tickets months in advance of a departure your group's seats, or sleeping berths on overnight trains, maybe spread out within one carriage or multiple carriages of the same class. There’s a chance you’ll be sharing a compartment with local travelers of either gender.
  • For a detailed look into the experience of travelling by overnight trains read more here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/india-trains-guide/
  • AUTO RICKSHAWS:
  • On this trip, we travel on the local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
  • FLIGHTS:
  • Airlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This trip is built for travellers who like a mix of free time and included activities. As such, there will be loads of opportunities to tailor your trip how you like. Please consider spending money for optional sightseeing (including transport to and from sights) and any activities you want to do.

    You’ll cover a lot of distance in this vast country, which involves some long bus and train rides. Sleeper trains are also a great way to travel long distances while still getting maximum time in each place. Beds are padded berths with sheets, pillow and blanket provided (although some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet). You may be in the same carriage with locals of the same or opposite gender. For your own security, take a lock for your hand luggage. Read about what it's like travelling on overnight trains in India, and around the world, here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/overnight-train-travel-around-the-world/

  • 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

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 18, 2024 - Dec 03, 2024
$735 $625

Operator discount: -$110

Monday - Tuesday

Dec 09, 2024 - Dec 24, 2024
$735 $588

Operator discount: -$147

Sunday - Monday

Dec 22, 2024 - Jan 06, 2025
$735 $625

Operator discount: -$110

Monday - Tuesday

Jan 06, 2025 - Jan 21, 2025
$750

Monday - Tuesday

Jan 20, 2025 - Feb 04, 2025
$780

Monday - Tuesday

Feb 17, 2025 - Mar 04, 2025
$810

Monday - Tuesday

Feb 24, 2025 - Mar 11, 2025
$810

Monday - Tuesday

Mar 03, 2025 - Mar 18, 2025
$810

Monday - Tuesday

Mar 17, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025
$780

Monday - Tuesday

Mar 31, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025
$780

Tuesday - Wednesday

Apr 15, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
$750

Monday - Tuesday

Jun 23, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025
$750

Monday - Tuesday

Jul 21, 2025 - Aug 05, 2025
$750

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 18, 2025 - Sep 02, 2025
$750

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$750

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
$780

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 27, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$780

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025
$810

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 25, 2025
$810

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 17, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025
$810

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 24, 2025 - Dec 09, 2025
$780

Monday - Tuesday

Dec 15, 2025 - Dec 30, 2025
$780

Monday - Tuesday

Dec 22, 2025 - Jan 06, 2026
$750

Monday - Tuesday

Dec 29, 2025 - Jan 13, 2026
$750

Monday - Tuesday

Jan 05, 2026 - Jan 20, 2026
$785

Monday - Tuesday

Jan 12, 2026 - Jan 27, 2026
$785

Monday - Tuesday

Jan 19, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026
$785

Monday - Tuesday

Jan 26, 2026 - Feb 10, 2026
$820

Monday - Tuesday

Feb 02, 2026 - Feb 17, 2026
$820

Monday - Tuesday

Feb 09, 2026 - Feb 24, 2026
$850

Monday - Tuesday

Feb 16, 2026 - Mar 03, 2026
$850

Monday - Tuesday

Feb 23, 2026 - Mar 10, 2026
$850

Monday - Tuesday

Mar 02, 2026 - Mar 17, 2026
$850

Monday - Tuesday

Mar 16, 2026 - Mar 31, 2026
$820

Monday - Tuesday

Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 14, 2026
$820

Tuesday - Wednesday

Apr 14, 2026 - Apr 29, 2026
$785

Monday - Tuesday

Jun 22, 2026 - Jul 07, 2026
$785

Monday - Tuesday

Jul 20, 2026 - Aug 04, 2026
$785

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 17, 2026 - Sep 01, 2026
$785

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 14, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$785

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 20, 2026
$820

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 26, 2026 - Nov 10, 2026
$820

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 02, 2026 - Nov 17, 2026
$850

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 09, 2026 - Nov 24, 2026
$850

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 16, 2026 - Dec 01, 2026
$850

Monday - Tuesday

Nov 23, 2026 - Dec 08, 2026
$850

Monday - Tuesday

Dec 14, 2026 - Dec 29, 2026
$820

Monday - Tuesday

Dec 21, 2026 - Jan 05, 2027
$820

Monday - Tuesday

Dec 28, 2026 - Jan 12, 2027
$785

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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