Classic Everest trek

Classic Everest trek

16 Views
19 Days From

$1800

Classic Everest trek

19 Days Starting and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal

Visiting: Kathmandu, Salleri, Solukhumbu, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Thengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Pangboche, Lukla

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

133

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

All Ages / Not applicable

Age range:

12-75

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

Activities:

Mountain Biking

From: $1800

NB: Prices correct on 01-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 the Classic Everest Trek, an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Nepal. Begin your journey in Kathmandu, where you'll be welcomed and briefed on the exciting days ahead. Avoiding the flight to Lukla, enjoy a scenic 3-day hike to the iconic Everest Base Camp, passing through the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar and the serene village of Dingboche. Experience the breathtaking views from Kallar Patar and immerse yourself in the rich culture and warm hospitality of the local people. Stay in cozy trekking lodges, savoring the tranquility and stunning mountain vistas. With the guidance of experienced trekking guides and porters, this small group adventure promises an active and culturally enriching experience. Conclude your trek with a flight back to Kathmandu, where you can reflect on the incredible journey and explore the city at your leisure.

Highlights

  • Kathmandu

  • Beautiful 3-day hiking route avoiding flight up to Lukla

  • Classic Everest Base Camp trek

  • Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar

  • Side walks from Dingboche

  • Amazing views from Kallar Patar

  • Thengboche Monastery with panoramic views of Everest and Ama Dablam

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive In Kathmandu, Transfer To Hotel

Location: Kathmandu

Accommodation Name: Kathmandu hotel

We greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in the centre of Kathmandu, where our Encounter Travel rep welcomes you, helps you settle in, and explains the agenda for the rest of your tour.

Day 2 : From Kathmandu (1400M) Drive To Salleri (2800M)

Location: Salleri

Accommodation Name: Salleri trekking lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast you drive out of the Kathmandu Valley by private car/minibus with your guide and porter(s). The drive is on decent black-top roads, through Dhulikel where you can get excellent mountain views, and then descending to the Sun Kosi, one of Nepal's most famous white water rafting rivers. After a while you leave the valley and turn north for the final section through small villages, past terraced fields and beautiful scenery up to Salleri. The total drive today is around 8-9 hours, though you can take a short domestic flight to Phaplu airport, a short distance further up the road, if you'd like to get there more quickly. You spend the night in your first trekking lodge.

Day 3 : Trek To Taksingdo (2960M) (5/6Hrs)

Location: Salleri

Accommodation Name: Taksingdo trekking lodge

Starting in the bustling town of Salleri, todays trail winds through terraced fields and picturesque villages, offering glimpses into the daily lives of the local people. As you ascend, the scenery transforms into lush forests teeming with rhododendrons and other vibrant flora. The air grows crisper, and the views become increasingly breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks dominating the horizon. Along the way, you'll encounter charming tea houses where you can rest and refuel, enjoying warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine. The final stretch to Taksingdo reveals a hidden gem nestled amidst the mountains, a peaceful village where time seems to stand still.

Day 4 : Trek To Kharikhola (2040M) (5/6 Hrs)

Location: Solukhumbu

Accommodation Name: Kharikhola trekking lodge

Our route today takes us from Taksingdo to Kharikhola, a delightful journey that meanders through verdant forests, charming villages, and terraced fields, offering glimpses into the serene beauty of the Solukhumbu region. As you leave the tranquil village of Taksingdo behind, the trail descends gradually, revealing captivating vistas of the Dudh Koshi River valley. The air is filled with the sounds of nature - the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle flow of the river. Along the way, you'll encounter friendly locals tending to their crops and livestock, offering warm smiles and greetings. The path is adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the wind, adding a touch of spirituality to the landscape. As you approach Kharikhola, the scenery opens up to reveal panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Numbur Himal. The trek culminates in the welcoming village of Kharikhola, where you can rest and savor the tranquility of the surroundings, preparing for the next leg of your Himalayan adventure.

Day 5 : Trek To Paiya (2730M) Via Kari La (3080M) (5/6 Hrs)

Location: Solukhumbu

Accommodation Name: Paiya trekking lodge

The route today takes us from Kharikhola to Paiya via Kari. The route is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that takes you through diverse landscapes and offers stunning vistas of the Himalayan giants. The initial ascent from Kharikhola is steep, leading you through rhododendron forests and past cascading waterfalls. As you gain altitude, the air grows thinner and the scenery becomes more dramatic, with snow-capped peaks dominating the horizon. The trail then winds its way to the challenging Kari La pass, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The descent from Kari La to Paiya is equally exhilarating, taking you through picturesque villages and terraced fields, offering glimpses into the local way of life. This trek is a true test of endurance and determination, but the breathtaking scenery and sense of accomplishment make it an unforgettable experience.

Day 6 : Trek To Phakding (2610M) (5 Hrs)

Location: Phakding

Accommodation Name: Phakding trekking lodge

Descending from the scenic village of Paiya, the trail winds its way through lush forests, alongside the rushing Dudh Koshi River. The air is alive with the sounds of nature – the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the gurgling of the river. Along the way, you'll cross suspension bridges that sway gently with each step, offering thrilling glimpses of the turquoise waters below. As you progress, the landscape opens up to reveal breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Thamserku. The trail meanders through charming Sherpa villages, where you can experience the warm hospitality and rich culture of the local people. The final stretch to Phakding takes you through pine forests and alongside terraced fields, offering a sense of tranquility and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead on the Everest Base Camp trek. Upon arrival in Phakding, you'll meet your fellow tour participants who have flown in to Lukla on our shorter Everest Base Camp trek. Situated along the Dudh Kosi river valley, Phakding offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. The village is known for its traditional Sherpa culture, stone houses, and warm hospitality. Visitors can explore the local gompa (Buddhist monastery) or simply relax in one of the many tea houses, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery.

Day 7 : Trek To Namche Bazaar (3440M) (5/6 Hrs)

Location: Namche Bazaar

Accommodation Name: Namche Bazaar trekking lodge

The day starts gently as we make our way along the river to the entrance of the Sagamartha National Park, where we will obtain our trekking permits and register with the park authorities. Soon the trail starts to rise for a long climb up to Namche Bazaar (3,446m), where we stop for the night. Namche Bazaar, often referred to as the "gateway to Everest," is a vibrant Sherpa town perched high in the Himalayas. Its amphitheater-like setting, surrounded by towering peaks, offers awe-inspiring vistas. This bustling trading hub is a melting pot of cultures, where trekkers and mountaineers from across the globe mingle with local Sherpa people. The narrow, stone-paved streets are lined with colorful prayer flags, tea houses, souvenir shops, and bakeries. Namche Bazaar is also home to the Sagarmatha National Park Museum, providing insights into the region's unique ecosystem and Sherpa culture. It's a place to acclimatize, soak in the mountain ambiance, and experience the warmth of Sherpa hospitality.

Day 8 : Acclimatisation Day In Namche

Location: Namche Bazaar

Accommodation Name: Namche Bazaar trekking lodge

Today is a free day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatisation - one of the most important things to do on any Everest tour in Nepal. This colourful Sherpa town is a great place to spend time exploring. There are numerous shops and stalls selling everything from cut price trekking gear to Buddhist prayer flags. Its internet cafes, bakeries and cafes are also popular with the many visitors. Of course, if you're not too tired, there are plenty of interesting and scenic day walks you can do if wish. We overnight at a lodge in Namche Bazaar.

Day 9 : Trek From Namche Bazaar To Thengboche

Location: Thengboche

Accommodation Name: Thengboche trekking lodge

Leaving Namche Bazaar behind our goal today is the village of Thengboche, which lies on top of the next ridge. This means we start the day with a long descent through Rhododendron forests down to the suspension bridge at Phunki Tenga (3,250m). Then we start the climb and it really is a strenuous climb, as now we have to fight against the altitude as well at the steepness of the trail. Eventually we crest the ridge and arrive at Thengboche (3,870m), from where, on a clear day, the views of Everest and Lhotse are magnificent. We overnight at a lodge in Thengboche. Thengboche itself is primarily known for its prominent monastery, which is a beacon of spirituality and serenity, set amidst the awe-inspiring mountain landscape. Its red-roofed buildings, adorned with colorful prayer flags, stand as a testament to the enduring faith of the Sherpa people. The monastery is home to a community of Buddhist monks who dedicate their lives to prayer and meditation, creating an atmosphere of peace and contemplation. Visitors are welcome to witness the monks' daily rituals, explore the monastery's intricate artwork and statues, and soak in the panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other majestic peaks. Thengboche Monastery is not just a religious site; it's a place of profound beauty and cultural significance, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

Day 10 : Trek To Dingboche (4410M) (4/5 Hrs)

Location: Dingboche

Accommodation Name: Dingboche trekking lodge

Today's trekking takes us through beautiful Rhododendron forests as we follow the river up the Imja valley towards Dingboche. Along this stretch of the trail there is a good possibility of spotting the elusive musk deer, an endangered species indigenous to the area. Leaving the forests behind, we end the day with a steep climb up to Dingboche (4,410m). We overnight at a lodge in Dingboche.

Surrounded by towering peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak, the village of Dingboche offers breathtaking scenery in every direction. Its sprawling fields, dotted with stone walls and grazing yaks, create a sense of tranquility and rural charm. Dingboche is also known for its network of hiking trails, leading to viewpoints like Nangkartshang Peak, offering even more spectacular vistas of the Himalayan giants. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and opportunities for exploration, Dingboche is a highlight for many trekkers on their journey to Everest.

Day 11 : Dingboche, Acclimatisation Day

Location: Dingboche

Accommodation Name: Dingboche trekking lodge

We spend the day in Dingboche acclimatising to the high altitude. This beautiful Sherpa village is a patchwork of small fields enclosed by stonewalls and offers wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. If you don't feel like resting you can head up the valley towards Chukung for even better views. We overnight at a lodge in Dingboche.

Day 12 : Trek From Dingboche To Lobuche

Location: Lobuche

Accommodation Name: Lobuche trekking lodge

Climbing up from Dingboche we follow the valley high up on one side until we reach Dughla (4,620m) and the entrance to the Khumbu valley. Heading up the Khumbu valley, a steep climb takes us over the Thokla Pass (4,830m) then we follow the edge of the glacial moraine onto Lobuche (4,910m). We overnight at a lodge in Lobuche.

Lobuche is a stark yet captivating village in Nepal's Khumbu region, sits in the shadow of towering peaks, including the majestic Lobuche Peak itself. Its high altitude and rugged terrain create a sense of remoteness and adventure, making it a crucial stop for trekkers acclimatizing before their final push to Everest Base Camp. The village consists of a cluster of stone lodges and tea houses, offering basic comforts and warm hospitality amidst the harsh environment. Despite its starkness, Lobuche boasts incredible views of the surrounding mountains, including the Khumbu Glacier, and the night sky, unpolluted by city lights, is a breathtaking spectacle of stars.

Day 13 : Trek From Gorak Shep To Everest Base Camp (Flexible Day)

Location: Everest Base Camp

Accommodation Name: Gorak Shep trekking lodge

Today we continue up the edge of the Khumbu glacier until we finally reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m). If you're lucky and the timing is right you may see expeditions preparing to climb Mount Everest. After spending some time to enjoy the surroundings and the completion of our goal, we make our way back down to Lobuche. We overnight at a lodge in Gorak Shep.

Day 14 : Trek From Gorak Shep To Kalar Pattar Ending In Dughla (Flexible Day)

Location: Kala Patthar

Accommodation Name: Dughla trekking lodge

Starting from Gorak Shep, we ascend to Kalar Pattar, a vantage point renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants. This climb, though steep and demanding, is well worth the effort for the unforgettable vistas it offers. From Kalar Pattar, the trail descends gradually towards Dughla, passing through rocky terrain and offering glimpses of the Khumbu Glacier. This section of the trek, while less strenuous than the ascent, requires careful footing due to the uneven path. The journey from Gorak Shep to Dughla via Kala Patthar is a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas and the resilience of those who venture into its embrace.

During this part of our Everest tour in Nepal, we keep our itinerary for today and tomorrow flexible, depending on the weather and how people are handling the altitude.

Day 15 : Start Descent Towards Pangboche

Location: Pangboche

Accommodation Name: Pheriche / Pangboche trekking lodge

Having acclimatised well to the altitude and gained some extra fitness on the way up, the trekking feels much easier now as you descend back down the trail towards Lukla. The next three days are flexible and we'll stop at lodges en-route based on how far we feel comfortable walking each day. You'll make regular stops to look back at the high peaks you've come so close to, and the views in front of you and up the side valleys also look and feel very different in this direction.

Day 16 : Continue Descending To Namche Bazaar

Location: Namche Bazaar

Accommodation Name: Namche Bazaar trekking lodge

We continue our descent today, arriving back into Namche Bazaar with its welcome shops, hot water and services. You can even access the internet again here and send messages to update friends and family back home on your progress.

Day 17 : Finish Trek In Lukla

Location: Lukla

Accommodation Name: Lukla trekking lodge

Our trek finishes today with the long walk back down from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. As a final treat, there's a steep climb up to Lukla to finish.

Day 18 : Fly Back To Kathmandu, Free Time

Location: Kathmandu

Accommodation Name: Kathmandu hotel

This morning we catch the flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu, where we transfer you to your city centre hotel. The rest of the day is free. You can also arrange some tours with your local guide today if you've chosen to add extra nights in Kathmandu.

Day 19 : Kathmandu, Free Time, Transfer To Airport

Location: Kathmandu

Accommodation Name: N/A

Meals Included: Breakfast

We've reached the end of our Everest tour in Nepal. Your last day in Kathmandu is free for you to catch up on some last minute souvenir shopping and exploring before we transfer you to the airport for your flight home. As delays and/or cancellations can occasionally occur on flights from Lukla, we strongly recommend adding at least 1 extra night post-tour in Kathmandu.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    All accommodation is included, with 2 nights in approximately 3-star hotels and 16 nights in trekking lodges.

  • Airport Transfers

    24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service is provided.

  • Domestic Flight

    Domestic flight between Lukla and Kathmandu is included.

  • Trekking Guide and Porters

    Services of a trekking guide and porters are provided throughout the trek.

  • Trekking Permits

    Trekking area permissions and permits are included.

  • Meals

    Meals as indicated in the itinerary are included.

  • Trekking Pack Hire

    Trekking Pack Hire, including a Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag, is included.

  • Tips for Drivers

    Tips for drivers are included.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights are not included but are available on request.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees are not included but are available on arrival for most nationalities.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory and not included, but available on request.

  • Meals Not Indicated

    Meals not indicated in the itinerary are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Drinks, snacks, and other personal expenses such as laundry are not included.

  • Tips for Guides and Porters

    Tips for guides and porters are not included.

  • Sleeping Bag

    Sleeping bag is not included but available for hire in Kathmandu as part of a trekking pack.

  • Other Items

    Any other items not mentioned above are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel includes a domestic flight between Lukla and Kathmandu, with private car/minibus transfers from Kathmandu to Salleri, ensuring a seamless journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable stays with 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and 16 nights in cozy trekking lodges along the classic Everest Base Camp trek, offering warm hospitality and stunning mountain views.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the trek?

    During the trek, you will stay in cozy trekking lodges for 16 nights, which offer warm hospitality and stunning mountain views. Additionally, you will spend 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, a 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service is provided as part of the tour package.

  • Is there a domestic flight included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a domestic flight between Lukla and Kathmandu.

  • Will there be a guide and porters during the trek?

    Yes, the services of a trekking guide and porters are provided throughout the trek.

  • Are trekking permits included in the tour?

    Yes, trekking area permissions and permits are included in the tour package.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    Meals as indicated in the itinerary are included in the tour package.

  • Is trekking equipment provided?

    Yes, trekking pack hire, including a down jacket and sleeping bag, is included in the tour.

  • Are tips for drivers included?

    Yes, tips for drivers are included in the tour package.

  • What is not included in the tour package?

    International flights, visa fees, travel insurance, meals not indicated in the itinerary, personal expenses such as drinks and snacks, tips for guides and porters, and any other items not mentioned are not included in the tour package.

  • Is travel insurance required for the tour?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for the tour, although it is not included in the package.

  • Is travel insurance compulsory?

    Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.

  • When is my balance payment due?

    60 days prior to departure

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

    On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s

  • Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

    Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews of this operator

Jasmine Montaque (Google Reviewer)  

We had a Great 9...

30-Aug-2023

We had a Great 9 day trip to Egypt ! Everyone we “encountered” were excellent! We absolutely loved our guide. We are Looking 👀 to book another trip with Encounters Travel!

sandra mooney (Google Reviewer)  

From the time we landed...

24-Aug-2024

From the time we landed in Cairo we were treated as VIP’s. Nadine our Tour leader kept on checking on us throughout the journey. We were fortunate to have Fayed and Hossam as the tour guides, they took their time to explain the sites throughout each excursion. Everyone made us feel safe and well looked after.

Miriam Huguet (Google Reviewer)  

I did the Discover Egypt...

06-Jan-2022

I did the Discover Egypt and I definetely recommend it. They take care of every detail (they manage to do our PCR with the stamp that we needed). They book quite comfortable hotels and the guide and the local guides are extremely good and passionate about their work. I would repeat it!! :)

Aries FFPro (Google Reviewer)  

Wish I could rate Encounters...

04-Dec-2021

Wish I could rate Encounters higher! From the onset, Anthony (Ant) was professional and extremely knowledgeable, and far more helpful than I had hoped. He always had time to respond to my inquiries and never showed any sign of frustration...no matter how many times I asked the same question. Meeting Saul at the Cairo airport shows just how valuable the RIGHT travel rep is: he had us go from the gate to getting our visas to picking up our luggage and out to the waiting van in 15 minutes! UNBELIEVABLE! Saul also checked in with us almost daily to make sure everything was to our satisfaction. Our guides Big Mu and Mahmoud were fantastic in their knowledge of the sites, the history of the area and where to get the best bargains. Encounters Travel made this trip of a lifetime 100x better than anything I had hoped for. I cannot recommend Encounters strongly enough...if you have Egypt on your bucket list, like we did, book safely and securely with Encounters!

Renee Hage (Google Reviewer)  

I so appreciated the care...

18-May-2024

I so appreciated the care taken by all the staff ensuring that we were well taken care of and had no problems. They were very responsive to all of our questions. The tour itself was incredible!

Erin Scott (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished a dreamy 9...

05-Dec-2019

Just finished a dreamy 9 day Discover Egypt Tour with our guide, Mohamed El-Maghrabi. I can’t say enough about this tour and Mohamed. Everything exceeded my expectations. Somehow each new day was better than the last. The tour was perfectly laid out and organized, and everything went super smoothly. Mohamed was attentive and thoughtful to each of our individual needs. From early check-ins, delicious pre-arranged restaurant excursions, and assisting with trip add-ons, Mohamed was a superstar. Not to mention his knowledge and passion for egyptology. The additional encounters support staff at each location was an added bonus that enhanced an already smooth operation. The trip went way too fast! I didn’t want it to end. I recommend this trip to anyone who wants to see as much of egypt as possible in a short amount of time! I’ll never forget this whirlwind adventure!

Claire Carter (Google Reviewer)  

I was unsure what to...

25-Oct-2023

I was unsure what to expect but it was far better than I thought. Collected from the airport and thoroughly looked after until I was returned to the airport 10 days later. The times, travelling and food was as advertised. The guide and sights were beyond my expectations. Fantastic tour.

Mary Radoccia (Google Reviewer)  

Northern India solo trip. ...

09-May-2024

Northern India solo trip. Some of the hotels were past their prime as 4 star establishments. Paid a substantial amount for side trip to varanasi which was supposed to be 3 days, 2 nights. It turned out to be really 1 day, 2 nights. Plane left after 8pm and we didn't arrive at hotel until after 11pm. Had to leave at 5.30am the following day and we didn't get back to hotel until after 10pm. The following day we had to leave hotel at 8am for flight back to dehli. We could have left for varanasi in the afternoon as originally implied and left on a later flight back to dehli. Everyone not staying extra days then had to spend 6 to 10 hours waiting for their flight home.The one day in varanasi was great but I wouldn't have gone if I knew the time frame. Not worth money either. Also bus used on trip was old, bad suspension and rattled Window style was old so not very good for taking photos. My view was shared by most of the other travellers. I think the standard of travel via Encounter has dropped over the past years based on comments from some of the others.

Melissa Goodwin (Google Reviewer)  

BUYER BEWARE Before you book anything...

17-Jun-2024

BUYER BEWARE Before you book anything with Encounters Travel, be SURE to read all of the fine print. This is especially important regarding their cancellation policy and the deposit you will forfeit. I didn't find that we'd completely lost our deposit until I contact the company to process a cancellation. I thought I could cancel for a full refund up until a certain point, but apparently I was mistaken. I booked a 3-night late-September boat trip at the end of May, and mid-June we realized we couldn't take it. It's been less than 3 weeks since I booked the trip and it's over 3 MONTHS until the trip will take place, so you know they will have no issue filling our two spots. Even so, we are out $250 each for our trip. They are within their rights to not refund the deposit - I should have waded through the fine print to find this buried detail. But they also have the choice to refund the deposit given the circumstances. Don't make the same mistake I did. READ EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU BOOK. Better yet, consider not booking with Encounters Travel.

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

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

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

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