Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery

Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery

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16 Days From

$3195

Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery

16 Days Starting in Bucharest and ending in Istanbul

Visiting: Bucharest, Veliko Tarnovo, Sofia, Bansko, Plovdiv, Istanbul, Canakkale, Selcuk, Ephesus/Overnight Train, Konya / Cappadocia, Cappadocia , Cappadocia to Istanbul , Istanbul

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

WMSIC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Interests:

Cultural

From: $3195

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

Embark on a spectacular journey from Romania and through Bulgaria to Turkey, discovering the architectural grandeur and quaint cultural enclaves that make this such an intriguing part of the world. Absorb Bucharest’s austere atmosphere on a guided walking tour, compare age-old places of worship in Sofia, breathe in crisp alpine air on a hike in the Pirin Mountains, bask in the glory of transcontinental Istanbul and soak up sun and history with a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus. Catch the overnight train to Central Anatolia and the fairytale landscape of Cappadocia, where hot air balloons dot the skyline and dwellings are cut into the cliffs - this 16-day trip is a fascinating study in just how much regions can change as you cross national borders.

Highlights

  • Immerse yourself in the communist past and vibrant present of Bucharest, a city often underrated by travellers

  • Travel through the scenic Rila Mountains in Bulgaria, mingling with monks at the 10th-century Rila Monastery

  • Breathe the crisp air on a hike and take in stunning view in the Pirin Mountain.

  • Discover the incredible ancient and modern history of Turkey as you explore thousands of years of history hidden within the remarkable ruins of Ephesus and discover Gallipoli on a guided tour that will teach you about the significant events that took place in this area.

  • Taste local fruit wines in one of the best-preserved Greek Ottoman villages in the country. Get to know the friendly locals with a home-made lunch at a local family in Cappadocia.

Itinerary

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Day 1: 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 2: 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 3: 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 4: 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 5: 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 6: 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 7: 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 8: 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 9: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a free morning until your group meeting at 1 pm, followed by a guided tour of the Old City with your expert leader. Visit the scene of many a chariot race in the ancient hippodrome, check out the Blue Mosque, take a walk past the wares of the Grand Bazaar and marvel at the architectural masterpiece that is Suleymaniye Cami. If you're not too exhausted after all the exploring, join your new friends for dinner and bask in the beauty of a real Turkish kebab. While you might be familiar with the shaved meats and pita bread sensation that you may have come across at 2 am, nothing beats the kind they wrap up in Istanbul.

Included Activities:
-Istanbul - Old City Walking Tour (Half Day)

Optional Activities:
-Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat)
-Istanbul - Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem)
-Istanbul - Galata Tower
-Istanbul - Hagia Sophia
-Istanbul - Archaeology Museum
-Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

Day 10: Canakkale

Location: Canakkale

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

After breakfast this morning, hit the road enroute to Canakkale – a port city on the southern shore of the Dardanelles. You’ll stop along the way to explore Gallipoli on a guided tour that will teach you about the significant events and history embedded in this area. Your guide will take you to ANZAC Cove and major memorial sites like Brighton Beach and ANZAC commemorative Site. You’ll also take in the views across the Dardanelles Strait and the Gallipoli Peninsula. This evening, we’ll spend the night in Canakkale with free time to grab dinner and get ready for tomorrow’s adventures.

Included Activities:
-Gallipoli - Fully guided Gallipoli tour & visit to the Commonwealth graveyards

Day 11: Selcuk

Location: Selcuk

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, we’ll drive to Selcuk with a stop in Troy – where history and mythology sit side-by-side – along the way. You’ll wander the ancient city walls with your group leader and even get a chance to enjoy a photo op with a replica Trojan Horse. You’ll learn more about how this place has confounded historians and archaeologists alike before continuing on to Selcuk. After arrival in the town, on the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill lie several historical buildings – you’ll follow your leader on an orientation walk, passing Isa Bey Mosque and the imposing Byzantine citadel of the Grand Fortress.Then drive out to the nearby picturesque village of Sirince and taste some locally produced fruit wines. This authentic Greek Ottoman village seems to have been overlooked by modern development and the unique local architecture nestled in the hills make for a photographer's dream. Return to Selcuk and the evening is yours.

Included Activities:
-Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
-Troy - Archaeological site visit
-Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 12: Ephesus/Overnight Train

Location: Ephesus/Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight train

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning, take a private minivan to visit the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus – one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. Once the capital city of Roman Asia Minor, the city has a fascinating history, which really comes alive with a local guide to enhance your experience. Considering their age, the ruins are in incredible shape, and it’s not difficult to imagine them in their full glory over 2000 years ago, equipped with running water, public toilets, a medical institute, and Roman baths. The theatre is well preserved and regularly hosts concerts, but it's perhaps the magnificent library that is the most striking. Then enjoy a lunch after the tour and don't miss out the chance of peeking into their kitchen where the local ladies make the delicious gozleme. You'll some free time later before being transferred to Izmir in the early evening - an overnight train, will be waiting to transport you through the night to the central Anatolian city of Konya.

Included Activities:
-Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
-Selcuk - Artemis Temple Visit
-Selcuk - Gozleme making demonstration and lunch

Optional Activities:
-Selcuk - Basilica of St John
-Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum
-Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry

Day 13: Konya / Cappadocia

Location: Konya / Cappadocia

Accommodation: Hotel

Wake up in Konya, a traditional Turkish city that's closely linked with the whirling dervish sect of Islam developed in the 13th century by Celaleddin Rumi, considered one of Islam's greatest Sufi mystics. Visit the Mevlana Museum and stretch your legs in town before hitting the road to Cappadocia. Keep an eye out for the fairy chimneys, the hallmarks of Cappadocia's otherworldly landscape, as you drive across the Anatolian plains. Stop enroute at one of the underground cities that once provided a safe haven in times of war or persecution. Arrive in the Cappadocian town of Ugrup in the late afternoon and take a sunset valley walk before settling in for the evening. This evening, you'll be treated to a stay in a local cave hotel that Cappadocia is famous for here.

Included Activities:
-Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
-Konya - Mevlana Museum

Optional Activities:
-Goreme - Whirling dervish performance

Day 14: Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This morning you have the option to take a hot air balloon flight, a once-in-a-lifetime experience during which the sun illuminates a skyline dotted with balloons. Later this morning, enjoy a guided walk through one of the nearby valleys, possibly the Valley of Love, which features fairy chimneys, deserted rock-cut homes and churches. Your leader will know a number of fantastic scenic routes, and a good walk is by far the best way to experience this unique environment. In your free time today, maybe visit the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open Air Museum, a monastic complex composed of churches, rectories and dwellings cut into the soft cliff face, or check out the Dark Church. This evening you’ll be warmly welcomed into a local home where the family will prepare a special home-cooked dinner for you and your group. Sit down to a feast made with passion, enjoy a friendly chat with your affable host and perhaps top off the night with some Turkish delight.

Included Activities:
-Cappadocia - Valley walk
-Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home

Optional Activities:
-Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight
-Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight
-Goreme - Open Air Museum

Day 15: Cappadocia To Istanbul

Location: Cappadocia to Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Wave goodbye to Cappadocia and transfer to the airport for a flight back to Istanbul (expect to arrive between 1 pm and 4 pm), and get transferred to your hotel. Meet up with your travel buds in the evening and take a stroll to one of the city's trendiest neighbourhoods, a place of contradictions where tool-selling tradesman share space with chic cafes and galleries – this is the place to be seen. Perhaps, try a local favourite, balik ekmek (fish sandwich), for dinner, then cleanse the palate with a baklava. Maybe check out a few of the bars, or simply enjoy a farewell cay (Turkish tea) overlooking the Bosphorus.

Day 16: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your Turkey adventure comes to an end after breakfast today, and there are no activities planned. However, if you'd like to spend more time in Istanbul, we’re happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (14 nights), Overnight Train (1 night)

  • Veliko Tarnovo - Tsarevets Fortress

  • Rila - Monastery Visit

  • Pirin Mountains - Hike

  • Rhodope Narrow-Gauge Railway

  • Plovdiv-Private Transfer from Plovdiv Train Station to Plovdiv Hotel

  • Plovdiv - Walking Tour with Local Guide

  • Istanbul- Private Transfer from Istanbul Bus Station to Istanbul Hotel

  • Plovdiv- Private Transfer from Plovdiv Hotel to Plovdiv Bus Station

  • Istanbul - Old City Walking Tour (Half Day)

  • Gallipoli - Fully guided Gallipoli tour & visit to the Commonwealth graveyards

show more

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.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is bookable for this trip, excluding Day 12, subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. You don't have a lot of time in Bucharest, so if you're keen to explore it in depth, we recommend you arrive a day or two before the start of the trip.
  • 3. As this is a combination trip, your tour leader and group composition may change on Day 9 in Istanbul.

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/apart.

    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 Budapest, taking in the best of Romania before continuing into Bulgaria. Or start in Vienna to see the best of Central Europe before heading to Romania and then Bulgaria. Check out our trips 'Eastern Europe Explorer' (trip code WMSEC) and '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 :-)

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$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 11, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025
$3320

Friday - Saturday

Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 18, 2025 - Sep 02, 2025
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 25, 2025 - Sep 09, 2025
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
$3450

Friday - Saturday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025
$3450

Friday - Saturday

Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 07, 2025
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 20, 2025 - Nov 04, 2025
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Apr 13, 2026 - Apr 28, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Apr 20, 2026 - May 05, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Apr 27, 2026 - May 12, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

May 04, 2026 - May 19, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

May 11, 2026 - May 26, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

May 18, 2026 - Jun 02, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

May 25, 2026 - Jun 09, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Jun 01, 2026 - Jun 16, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Jun 08, 2026 - Jun 23, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Jun 15, 2026 - Jun 30, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Jun 22, 2026 - Jul 07, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Jun 29, 2026 - Jul 14, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Jul 06, 2026 - Jul 21, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Jul 13, 2026 - Jul 28, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Jul 20, 2026 - Aug 04, 2026
$3195

Friday - Saturday

Jul 24, 2026 - Aug 08, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Jul 27, 2026 - Aug 11, 2026
$3195

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 03, 2026 - Aug 18, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 10, 2026 - Aug 25, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 17, 2026 - Sep 01, 2026
$3320

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 08, 2026
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 15, 2026
$3450

Friday - Saturday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 07, 2026 - Sep 22, 2026
$3450

Friday - Saturday

Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 14, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 21, 2026 - Oct 06, 2026
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Sep 28, 2026 - Oct 13, 2026
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 20, 2026
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 12, 2026 - Oct 27, 2026
$3450

Monday - Tuesday

Oct 19, 2026 - Nov 03, 2026
$3320

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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