Everest & Gokyo Lakes trek

Everest & Gokyo Lakes trek

56 Views
20 Days From

$1800

Everest & Gokyo Lakes trek

20 Days Starting and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal

Visiting: Kathmandu, Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Thengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Dzongla, Cho La Pass, Gokyo, Dole

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

132

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 18

Physical rating:

All Ages / Not applicable

Age range:

12-75

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Eco Conscious

Activities:

Mountain Biking

From: $1800

NB: Prices correct on 21-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 an unforgettable adventure with the Everest & Gokyo Lakes trek in Nepal, a journey that combines breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural experiences. Begin your trek in the bustling city of Kathmandu before flying to Lukla, the gateway to the Himalayas. Traverse through the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, the serene Gokyo Lakes, and the challenging Cho La Pass. Experience the thrill of reaching Everest Base Camp and savor the panoramic views from Kallar Patar. Stay in friendly trekking lodges and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people. With domestic flights, airport transfers, and the support of experienced guides and porters, this trek promises a seamless and enriching experience. Whether you're an avid trekker or a cultural enthusiast, this small group adventure offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.

Highlights

  • Kathmandu

  • Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri

  • Cho La Pass

  • Everest Base Camp

  • Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar

  • Amazing views from Kallar Patar

Itinerary

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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 Encounters Travel rep welcomes you, helps you settle in, and explains the agenda for the rest of your tour.

Day 2 : Fly To Lukla And Start Trekking To Phakding

Location: Lukla

Accommodation Name: Phakding trekking lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Everest tour in Nepal officially starts today. We catch the short early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m) and start trekking to Phakding (2,652m). Descending out of Lukla the trail gently winds its way along the river and serves as an easy introduction to the harder days ahead. We overnight at Phakding at one of the many comfortable trekking lodges. 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. Trekking time: Approx. 2 1/2 hours

Day 3 : Trek From Phakding To Namche Bazaar

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. Trekking time: Approx. 5 hours

Day 4 : Namche Bazaar, Acclimatisation Day

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 5 : 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. Trekking time: Approx. 5 hours plus any side walks

Day 6 : Trek From Tengboche To Dingboche

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.

Trekking time: Approx. 4 hours

Day 7 : 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 8 : 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.

Trekking time: Approx. 4 hours

Day 9 : 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. Trekking time: Approx. 5-6 hours

Day 10 : Trek To Kalar Pattar. Afternoon To Rest In Gorak Shep

Location: Kala Patthar

Accommodation Name: Gorak Shep trekking lodge

Starting from Gorak Shep, we ascend to Kalar Pattar, a vantage point renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest. This climb, though steep and demanding, is well worth the effort for the unforgettable vistas it offers. The trail winds its way up the rocky slopes, offering glimpses of the surrounding Himalayan giants. Despite the physical exertion, the reward at the summit is unparalleled: a breathtaking panorama of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and the sprawling Khumbu Glacier. We often choose to embark on this hike before dawn to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over Everest, painting the sky with vibrant hues. It's a truly unforgettable experience that encapsulates the grandeur of the Everest region. After our hike to Kala Pattar, we return to Gorak Shep where we'll have some time to rest before embarking on our journey towards the Gokyo Lakes tomorrow.

Trekking time: Approx. 4 hours

Day 11 : Trek From Gorak Shep To Dzongla

Location: Dzongla

Accommodation Name: Dzongla Trekking lodge

Todays hike from Gorak Shep to Dzongla is an invigorating journey through the heart of the Everest region, offering stunning vistas and a taste of authentic Sherpa culture. This moderately challenging day covers approximately 10 kilometers and takes you through diverse landscapes, including rocky moraines, lush meadows, and traditional villages.Descending into the picturesque Dzongla valley, you'll encounter yak herders and charming tea houses, providing a glimpse into the local way of life.

Day 12 : Cross The Cho La Pass To Thagnak

Location: Cho La Pass

Accommodation Name: Thagnak trekking lodge

Starting from Dzongla, the trail gradually ascends towards the formidable Cho La Pass, one of the highest passes in the Everest region. The climb is demanding, but the panoramic views from the summit, including Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Everest itself, make it all worthwhile. After crossing the pass, the trail descends steeply into the picturesque valley leading to Thagnak. The village of Thagnak, nestled amidst lush greenery, provides a welcome respite after the strenuous climb.

Day 13 : Trek From Thagnak To Gokyo

Location: Gokyo

Accommodation Name: Gokyo trekking lodge

Starting from the tranquil village of Thagnak, the trail gently ascends through yak pastures and rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of the majestic peaks ahead. As you progress, the trail opens up to reveal stunning vistas of Cho Oyu, the sixth highest mountain in the world. The final stretch of the trek takes you alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, before reaching the picturesque village of Gokyo. Nestled beside the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, this village offers a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest itself.

Day 14 : Scenic Hike To Gokyo Ri Or Relax In Gokyo

Location: Gokyo

Accommodation Name: Gokyo trekking lodge

Today you have the option of relaxing in Gokyo itself or ascending Gokyo Ri (5,360m), The hike from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri is a rewarding ascent that culminates in some of the most spectacular views in the Everest region. Though relatively short in distance, the climb is steep and can be challenging due to the high altitude. However, the panoramic vistas from the summit of Gokyo Ri are more than worth the effort. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and a majestic array of Himalayan giants, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Day 15 : Trek From Gokyo To Machermo

Location: Gokyo

Accommodation Name: Machermo trekking lodge

Starting from Gokyo, todays trail descends gently along the Dudh Koshi River, offering captivating views of the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the surrounding peaks. The path winds its way through picturesque villages, yak pastures, and rhododendron forests, providing a glimpse into the local way of life. As you approach Machermo, the trail opens up to reveal breathtaking vistas of the valley and its surrounding mountains. The village of Machermo itself is a peaceful haven, where you can relax and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people.

Day 16 : Trek From Machermo To Dole

Location: Dole

Accommodation Name: Dole trekking lodge

Starting from the charming village of Machermo, the trail gradually ascends through rhododendron forests and yak pastures, offering glimpses of the surrounding peaks. As you progress, the trail opens up to reveal breathtaking vistas of the valley below and the majestic mountains in the distance. The path then winds its way through rocky terrain, leading to the quaint village of Dole. Nestled amidst lush greenery, Dole provides a welcome respite after the trek, with its traditional tea houses and warm hospitality.

Day 17 : Trek From Dole To Namche Bazaar

Location: Namche Bazaar

Accommodation Name: Namche Bazaar trekking lodge

Starting from the quaint village of Dole, the trail winds its way through lush rhododendron forests, passing cascading waterfalls and charming tea houses. As you descend further, the landscape opens up to reveal panoramic views of the Dudh Koshi valley and the surrounding Himalayan giants. The trail then crosses several suspension bridges, adding a touch of adventure to the journey. As you approach Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region, you'll encounter bustling markets, colorful prayer flags, and traditional Sherpa architecture.

Day 18 : Namche Bazaar To Lukla Trek

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 19 : Fly From Lukla To Kathmandu. Transfer To Hotel. 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 20 : Departure Airport Transfer

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your tour ends after breakfast and, if required, we transfer you to the airport for your flight home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    All accommodation is included, with 2 nights in approximately 3-star hotels and 17 nights in trekking lodges.

  • Airport Transfers

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

  • Domestic Flights

    Domestic return flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are 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.

    Budget approximately US$450-500 for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners on the trek.

  • 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.

  • Other Items

    Any other items not mentioned above are not included.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service, as well as domestic return flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, ensuring a seamless travel experience to and from the trekking region.

Accommodation

Enjoy 2 nights in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and 17 nights in friendly trekking lodges along the route, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere amidst the stunning Himalayan landscapes.

Check out our Q&As

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

    During the trek, you will stay in friendly trekking lodges for 17 nights, which offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere amidst the stunning Himalayan landscapes. Additionally, you will spend 2 nights in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes a 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service, ensuring a seamless travel experience to and from the trekking region.

  • What is the role of the trekking guide and porters during the trek?

    The trekking guide and porters are there to assist you throughout the trek. The guide will lead the way, provide information about the region, and ensure your safety, while the porters will help carry your luggage, allowing you to enjoy the trek more comfortably.

  • Are meals included in the trek, and should I budget for additional meals?

    Meals as indicated in the itinerary are included. However, you should budget approximately US$450-500 for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners on the trek that are not included in the itinerary.

  • What equipment is provided for the trek?

    Trekking Pack Hire is included, which provides you with a Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag for the duration of the trek.

  • Are international flights included in the tour package?

    No, international flights are not included in the tour package but are available on request.

  • Is travel insurance required for this trek?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for this trek, although it is not included in the package. It is available on request.

  • What is the significance of the acclimatisation days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche?

    The acclimatisation days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche are crucial for adjusting to the high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness, and ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

  • 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.