Best of India

Best of India

3,051 Views
19 Days From

$2620

Best of India

19 Days Starting and ending in Delhi

Visiting: Delhi, Jaipur, Lotwara , Fatehpur Sikri – Agra, Shimla, Mandi, Dharamsala (McLeod Ganj), Amritsar, Amritsar – Overnight train, Rishikesh, Rishikesh – River Ganges

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HHSGC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $2620

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Visit India and follow the famous Golden Triangle. Enjoy the perfect introduction to India's three most popular destinations - Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur - as we explore the icons and discover the secrets of this fascinating region. Experience the history of massive forts, the opulence of Rajasthan's palaces, and the traditions of a heritage homestay. Head north into the Himalayan foothills and be introduced to the Mountains and Mystics of this incredible country. These mystical lands look and feel very different from the rest of India - from the food and clothes to the crisp, clean mountain air and spiritual sway of the inhabitants. Discover the complex diversity of India and be enchanted by a land balanced between physical and spiritual worlds.

Highlights

  • The Taj Mahal is not only a sumptuous masterpiece of Indian architecture, but also a truly meaningful stop on any traveller’s journey. Here's what you need to know about your visit: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/taj-mahal-travel-guide/

  • Overlooking the picturesque scene of Moata Lake, the monumental Amber Fort is one sight that will forever be under India’s protection

  • Experience authentic Rajasthani luxury with a heritage stay at the lavish Bhanwar Vilas in Karauli

  • Old and New Delhi fuse to create a city that pays homage to past empires, while wrestling with its modern identity

  • The colonial charm of Shimla Hill Station offers a great introduction to the Himalayas, and the World Heritage-listed ‘toy-train’ is a great way to get there

  • As the home of the Dalai Lama, tranquil Dharmasala is the ideal place for an enlightening experience of Tibetan spirituality, culture, and history

  • Learn about Sikhism on a visit to the faith’s most sacred monument, the luminous Golden Temple in Amritsar

  • Breeze through the self-proclaimed ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ in Rishikesh and walk along the banks of the holy Ganges River

  • The Taj Mahal is not only a sumptuous masterpiece of Indian architecture, but also a truly meaningful stop on any traveller’s journey.

  • Experience authentic Rajasthani luxury with a heritage stay at the lavish Bhanwar Vilas in Karauli.

Show all

Places You'll See

Taj Mahal, India

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive with hours (or days) to spare, consider striking out on your own, perhaps to visit the World Heritage-listed Humayun's Tomb. A great (and tasty) way to get under the city’s skin in very little time is to book an Urban Adventure like the Delhi City Food Crawl. After the 6 pm meeting, head out for an optional meal with your group at a local restaurant.

Optional Activities:
-Delhi - Humayun's Tomb
-Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure
-Delhi - Red Fort
-Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure

Day 2: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

Join your group leader on an excursion through Old Delhi. Ride the city’s metro system, and then hop in a rickshaw to the once water-filled square of Chandni Chowk. Discover the Jama Masjid, Delhi’s oldest mosque, before learning about the history of the Sikh religion at the Sheeshganj Gurudwara.

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

Day 3: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation: Hotel

Travel by private vehicle into Rajasthan and on to its capital, Jaipur (approximately 5 - 6 hours). A friendly, busy city crammed with palaces and bazaars full of jewellery, textiles and folk arts, Jaipur is a favourite for many travellers. Our suggestions are to stop by the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), then head over to Jaipur's Royal City Palace and explore its extravagant rooms and apartments. Later, discover one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur.

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

Optional Activities:
-Jaipur - City Palace
-Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory
-Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema

Day 4: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation: Hotel

Choose to take an early morning hot air balloon experience, often a highlight of visiting Jaipur. Ballooning can be done over Jaipur on the morning of day four between September and June. Mid-afternoon visit the Amber Fort. Set on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, the fort is an authentic example of Rajput architecture and the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) is one of its more spectacular buildings.

Included Activities:
-Jaipur - Amber Fort

Optional Activities:
-Jaipur - Balloon Safari

Day 5: Lotwara

Location: Lotwara

Accommodation: Heritage Property

Meals Included: dinner

Leave the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur behind and drive to the Lotwara Village in Dausa district of Rajasthan (Approximately 3 hours). This delightful town was founded in 17th Century and is packed with rural ambiance and traditional temples. It is also known as the “Peacock Town” of Rajasthan due to the dense population of peacocks! Take a guided walk around the Old Quarter, interacting with friendly locals and learning about rural Indian life off the tourist trail. Be sure to visit the local stalls along the way and sample some seasonal local sweets made from Indian ingredients, including petha (pumpkin), jaggery (organic sugar), peanut brittle, and gazak (sesame seeds). Stay in a restored heritage property tonight where dinner is included. 

Included Activities:
-Lotwara - Village Walk

Day 6: Fatehpur Sikri – Agra

Location: Fatehpur Sikri – Agra

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

On the journey to Agra, stop en route at the one-time capital of the Mughal empire, Fatehpur Sikri (approximately 4 hours). Its stunning mosque displays both Persian and Hindu design and is secured by a 54-metre high entrance. Once in Agra, there’s the option of visiting the marble tomb that was saved for the greatest of the Mughal Emperors, Akbar's Mausoleum. The day then culminates in a visit to the Taj Mahal, built in the 1640s as a memorial to the wife of Emperor Shah Jahan.

Included Activities:
-Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour
-Agra - Taj Mahal

Optional Activities:
-Agra - Additional entries to Taj Mahal

Day 7: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

In the morning, take a guided tour along the banks of the Yamuna River to the iconic Agra Fort. Originally designed by Emperor Akbar in 1565 to be a military structure, it was converted into a palace during Emperor Shah Jahan's reign and later became his prison. In the early afternoon, take the 3-4 hour journey back to Delhi by private bus. Arrive back at the hotel with enough time to freshen up and decide whether to enjoy one final dinner with the group.

Optional Activities:
-Delhi - Qutub Minar
-Delhi - Humayun's Tomb
-Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure
-Delhi - Home-Cooked Delhi Urban Adventure
-Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure

Day 8: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, join the group for a walking tour around Old Delhi, which has been an important city in India for over 2000 years. Climb aboard a traditional cycle rickshaw and be driven through the colour and chaos of Delhi’s traffic. In the afternoon, learn about the Sikh religion at the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) and visit the Jama Masjid – Delhi's oldest and India’s largest mosque.

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

Day 9: Shimla

Location: Shimla

Accommodation: Hotel

Depart Delhi by train for the 4-5-hour journey across the state of Punjab to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, you’ll travel by private vehicle to Shimla. On arrival, get your bearings and explore the town's faded charm on an orientation walk with your group leader.

Included Activities:
-Shimla - Leader-led walking tour

Day 10: Shimla

Location: Shimla

Accommodation: Hotel

Wake up early this morning to board the World Heritage-listed 'toy train' for a 30 minute scenic journey offering views of quaint villages and gorgeous mountain passes. Afterward, head out and explore Mall Road – Shimla's most popular shopping stretch. A nearby viewpoint also offers fantastic views of the Himalayas. Visit the Viceregal Lodge to witness where the partition agreement that separated India from Pakistan and Bangladesh was drawn up. If you like, join the hordes of monkeys milling about Jakhu Temple or stock up on souvenirs and specialty wooden crafts at Lakkar Bazaar. Set among rolling hills, Shimla also offers an array of nature walks that range from gentle to challenging. In the evening, you might like to enjoy an optional trip to the cinema and bop along to a Bollywood blockbuster.

Included Activities:
-Shimla - Viceregal Lodge

Optional Activities:
-Shimla - Cinema
-Shimla - Jakhu Temple - Free
-Shimla - Lakkhar Bazar - Free

Day 11: Mandi

Location: Mandi

Accommodation: Heritage Property

Meals Included: dinner

Travel by private transfer to the small town of Mandi. Situated on the Beas River, Mandi has a rich cultural heritage of both historical and theological significance. Once part of the salt route to Tibet, today it's the gateway to the Kullu Valley. Head into town for a walk and explore a huge sunken shopping centre – the only one like it in India and the focal point of entertainment in Mandi. You can also spend time at the bathing ghats along the river or hike to hilltop temples just outside of town. In the evening, enjoy an included dinner and stay in the simply restored former palace of the Raja of Mandi.

Included Activities:
-Mandi - Leader-led walking tour

Day 12: Dharamsala (Mcleod Ganj)

Location: Dharamsala (McLeod Ganj)

Accommodation: Hotel

Today’s journey through the mountains today is an adventure in itself. Travel by private vehicle for the 6-hour drive along bumpy, winding roads to Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj. Strung with prayer flags and busy with robed monks strolling between monasteries, this hilltop retreat is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Spend the afternoon wandering the peaceful streets, which are set to the backdrop of the Himalayas. There’s a lot to gain here from learning about the many facets of Tibetan Buddhism.

Day 13: Dharamsala (Mcleod Ganj)

Location: Dharamsala (McLeod Ganj)

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, visit the fascinating Norbulingka Institute, developed to train Tibetan refugees in skills needed to preserve the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet. Its grounds feature a beautiful temple and several workshops where you can see woodcarving, painting, and needlework in action. Then make your way to the Tsuglag Khang complex to see the Dalai Lama’s temple. You may also like to visit the Losel Doll Museum, which is a great way to learn about the daily lives and customs of people all over Tibet.

Included Activities:
-Dharamsala - Norbulingka Institute
-Dharamsala - Dalai Lama Temple

Optional Activities:
-Dharamsala - Losel Doll Museum

Day 14: Amritsar

Location: Amritsar

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, travel down the mountains to Amritsar, situated in the heart of the fertile plain known as India's ‘breadbasket’ and the centre of Sikhism in India. Tour the sights and wander through the rambling streets and bazaars of the Old City by foot. Explore the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), which sits in the middle of a sacred lake. Listen to the soothing sounds of the devout chanting verses from the Sikh holy book – the Guru Granth Sahib.

Included Activities:
-Amritsar - Golden Temple

Day 15: Amritsar – Overnight Train

Location: Amritsar – Overnight train

Accommodation: Overnight Sleeper Train

Visit Jallianwala Bagh – the site of the tragic 1919 massacre that played a vital role in India's independence. Then head out to the India–Pakistan border to witness the pomp and circumstance of the daily flag ceremony – a military practice that the security forces of India and Pakistan have followed since 1959. Tonight, take an overnight sleeper train from Amritsar to Haridwar.

Included Activities:
-Amritsar - Jallianwallah Bagh
-Amritsar - Wagah Border ceremony

Day 16: Rishikesh

Location: Rishikesh

Accommodation: Hotel

After pulling into Haridwar in the morning, there’s a 1-hour drive to Rishikesh. Check in to your hotel before going on an orientation walk with your leader. Pay a visit to the faded but mural-lined walls of Chaurasi Kutia – the ashram made internationally famous (long with Rishikesh by association) when the Beatles visited in the 1960s. Explore the crumbling beauty of the former ashram, now covered in graffiti related to the band and counterculture. In the evening, take a stroll along the holy Ganges River as temple bells ring and the nightly fire ritual of Ganga Aarti begins.

Included Activities:
-Rishikesh - Leader-led walking tour
-Rishikesh - Chaurasi Kutia 'The Beatles Ashram'

Optional Activities:
-Rishikesh - Yoga Class

Day 17: Rishikesh – River Ganges

Location: Rishikesh – River Ganges

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

The morning is yours to roam around Rishikesh. Perhaps tuck into a masala dosa for breakfast before walking it off on one of the trails along the Ganges. Aptly named the 'Yoga Capital of the World', Rishikesh is a great place to relax and seek a little enlightenment with your own yoga class, if you’d like. For something more adventurous, there is the option to white-water raft down the Ganges. In the afternoon, reunite with your group for a walk through the jungle nearby. 

Optional Activities:
-Rishikesh - White Water Rafting

Day 18: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Bid farewell to Rishikesh and take the train back to Delhi (approximately 7-9 hours). The train arrives back into Delhi around 11 pm from where you’ll be transferred to your hotel on arrival.

Day 19: Delhi

Location: Delhi

There are no activities planned for today, so you’re free to depart the accommodation at any time. Don't forget to check out the great range of Urban Adventures if you have extra time in Delhi, including Hidden Gems of Delhi. Head to urbanadventures.com/destination/delhi-tours for more information. If you would like to spend some more time in Delhi, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Optional Activities:
-Delhi - Hidden Gems of Delhi Urban Adventure

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Heritage Property (2 nights), Hotel (15 nights), Overnight sleeper train (1 night)

  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque

  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)

  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour

  • Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour

  • Jaipur - Amber Fort

  • Suroth Mehal - Village Walk

  • Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour

  • Agra - Taj Mahal

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

  • Shimla - Leader-led walking tour

show more

What's Not Included

Transport

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

Accommodation

  • ACCOMMODATION:
  • Some of the accommodation along the way is basic or simple, staying in local guesthouses and homestays. Some may have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only. We use a mixture of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.
  • SHOWERS:
  • Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.
  • ROOM ISSUES:
  • If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your tour leader right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.

Included Activities

  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
  • Delhi - Jama Masjid
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
  • Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
  • Jaipur - Amber Fort
  • Karauli - Village walk
  • Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour
  • Agra - Taj Mahal
  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
  • Delhi - Jama Masjid
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
  • Shimla - Leader-led walking tour
  • Shimla - Viceregal Lodge
  • Mandi - Leader-led walking tour
  • Dharamsala - Norbulingka Institute
  • Dharamsala - Dalai Lama Temple
  • Amritsar - Golden Temple
  • Amritsar - Jallianwallah Bagh
  • Amritsar - Wagah Border ceremony
  • Rishikesh - Leader-led walking tour
  • Rishikesh - Chaurasi Kutia 'The Beatles Ashram'

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement exclude Day 15 (Sleeper Train) and Day 17 (Camping) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Hot air balloon flights are operated by Sky Waltz in Jaipur. Flights operate from September 1st to April 30th and last approximately 60 mins. Return transfers, tea and coffee plus light refreshments, and a certificate of flight are included in the cost. You can register your interest and pay your tour leader at your joining meeting on day 1 of your trip. Payment must be made by cash in either INR/AUD/USD/GBP or credit card and is USD 260pp (subject to change). Flights are subject to availability and weather conditions (tickets are fully refundable in case of bad weather).
  • 3. Please note that due to train arrival times there may not be any free time in Delhi at the end of this tour. We advise booking additional accommodation to extend your stay.
  • 4. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport. Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
  • 5.  As this is a combination trip, the composition of your group, as well as the group leader, may change on Day 7.

Mode of Transport

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

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    Old Delhi can be very busy and crowded. While it’s an exciting place to see local life moving around you, be aware that on the walking tour you’ll need to navigate through people, tight spaces, and walkways.

    Rajasthan can reach extremely high temperatures in the summer. While we aim to do our walking tours early in the morning when it’s cooler, remember to keep hydrated and to bring a hat, sunscreen, a long-sleeved shirt, and anything else that will protect you from the sun.

    We visit a number of temples on this trip, which requires a certain level of modesty. Please bring clothes that cover the arms and pants/skirts that go past the knees.

    This trip involves some long train rides, which can be tiresome but offer a quintessential Indian experience. The journey from Delhi to Shimla takes nearly a full day of train travel and you’ll also be taking a ten-hour overnight sleeper train from Amritsar to Haridwar.

    Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned and a great way to travel long distances while still getting maximum time in each place. Beds are padded berths with sheets, pillow, and blanket provided (although some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet). Please note that you may be sharing with locals of the same or opposite gender.

    We’ll be taking a local bus between Mandi and Dharmsala. The road through the mountains is rough and bumpy, but the scenery, adventure, and opportunity to mingle with locals will distract you from any discomfort.

    In Dharmsala, our vehicle can’t get all the way to the hotel so some walking (500 m) with your luggage will be required.

    As Rishikesh is a sacred town, no alcohol is permitted.

    This trip travels into the Himalayas, where temperatures can get very low. We don’t run the trip in winter, but ensure that you’re well prepared for cold weather at any time of the year. The sun can also be strong at higher altitudes, so make sure you bring a hat, sunscreen, and any other relevant sun protection.

    Long-distance and overnight trains can often be delayed and occasionally cancelled due to heavy fog between Dec-Feb. Please see the transport section of the essential trip information.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

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

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Friday

Jan 20, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025
$2805

Monday - Friday

Feb 10, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025
$2945

Monday - Friday

Mar 17, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025
$2780

Monday - Friday

Mar 24, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
$2835

Monday - Friday

Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
$2645

Thursday - Monday

Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025
$2620

Thursday - Monday

Apr 17, 2025 - May 05, 2025
$2620

Monday - Friday

Apr 21, 2025 - May 09, 2025
$2620

Monday - Friday

Apr 28, 2025 - May 16, 2025
$2620

Monday - Friday

May 05, 2025 - May 23, 2025
$2620

Monday - Friday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025
$2620

Thursday - Monday

Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025
$2620

Monday - Friday

Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
$2620

Monday - Friday

Sep 15, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
$2725

Monday - Friday

Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
$2725

Monday - Friday

Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Oct 20, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Oct 27, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 28, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Nov 17, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Nov 24, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025
$2830

Monday - Friday

Dec 29, 2025 - Jan 16, 2026
$2830

Monday - Friday

Jan 05, 2026 - Jan 23, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

Jan 19, 2026 - Feb 06, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

Jan 26, 2026 - Feb 13, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

Feb 09, 2026 - Feb 27, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Feb 16, 2026 - Mar 06, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Feb 23, 2026 - Mar 13, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Mar 02, 2026 - Mar 20, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Mar 09, 2026 - Mar 27, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Mar 16, 2026 - Apr 03, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Mar 23, 2026 - Apr 10, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 17, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Apr 13, 2026 - May 01, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

Apr 20, 2026 - May 08, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

Apr 27, 2026 - May 15, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

May 04, 2026 - May 22, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 18, 2026
$2750

Thursday - Monday

Sep 03, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

Sep 07, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026
$2750

Monday - Friday

Sep 14, 2026 - Oct 02, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Sep 21, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026
$2860

Monday - Friday

Sep 28, 2026 - Oct 16, 2026
$3205

Monday - Friday

Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 23, 2026
$3205

Monday - Friday

Oct 12, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
$3205

Monday - Friday

Oct 19, 2026 - Nov 06, 2026
$3205

Monday - Friday

Oct 26, 2026 - Nov 13, 2026
$3205

Monday - Friday

Nov 02, 2026 - Nov 20, 2026
$3205

Monday - Friday

Nov 09, 2026 - Nov 27, 2026
$3205

Monday - Friday

Nov 16, 2026 - Dec 04, 2026
$3205

Monday - Friday

Nov 23, 2026 - Dec 11, 2026
$3205

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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