Journeys travelers are known for breaking barriers and exploring uncharted territory, so we weren’t surprised when we started getting requests for a trip to Saudi Arabia, one of the most difficult places in the world to visit. What did surprise us, though, was the depth of exploration to be had in this previously impenetrable destination, and the openness of the guides to share their country and their stories with us.
When done correctly, a visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a safe, eye-opening experience that provides insight into a culture that is vastly different than the culture of the United States. But before even considering joining this trip or visiting Saudi Arabia, you must be comfortable with a few ground rules:
Saudi Arabia is a dry country and alcohol is absolutely forbidden (as are narcotics and pornographic materials).
Women should be prepared to wear abayas (full-length garments) at all times, which will be provided when you arrive in Saudi Arabia. However, women do NOT need to cover their heads or hair.
Visitors will be fingerprinted and will undergo a retinal scan upon arrival in the country.
Most places shut down for prayers throughout the day, especially between 12-3pm. Often you will be taken to your hotel during these hours for some free time.
Authorities sometimes close sites or deny entrance to sites without advance warning.
If you’re OK with these ground rules, then get ready for the cultural exchange of your life. Join a Journeys trip leader and a local guide as you get to know the fascinating archeology, rock art, geology, food, culture, history and hospitable people of Saudi Arabia.
About your Guide
Khaled EL Qahtani was born in 1986 in Dhahran Al Janub (a small town in southern Saudi Arabia on the border of Yemen). Married and the father of three children, Khaled is the most coveted guide in the country, with many impressive credentials that make him the perfect guide for Journeys. He is the Vice Chairman of the advisory committee for tourist guides (SCTA—Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities), a Certified Trainer for Saudi Arabia guides (certified by WFTGA—World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations), and the 2011 winner of the Saudi Excellence in Tourism and Best Tour Guide awards. Plus, he has extensive knowledge of the Arabian Peninsula trade routes and what the stone carvings along these routes represent. And not only is he a wealth of information, his kindness and compassion always touch the souls of his travelers also.
Read More
Great For
Historic Ruins
Cultural Learning
Big Questions
This is a bold adventure that is perfect for bold travelers. We know that the people who are drawn to this trip are explorers who understand the value of human connection and global awareness that go hand-in-hand with a trip like this.
Robin Weber Pollak, Journeys President
Upon arrival in Jeddah, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for your overnight.
Meals
Dinner
BDay 2Jeddah
Jeddah, located on the coast of the Red Sea, is the major urban center of Western Saudi Arabia. It is the second largest city in Saudi Arabia after the capital of Riyadh, and is considered the most open city in the country. Jeddah is the gateway to Mecca, Islam’s holiest city, and is one of the country’s primary resort towns. Fishing and seafood dominate the food culture.
This morning, visit some of the old Ottoman houses, mostly constructed from coral and reinforced with wood so that beams crisscross the interior walls. You’ll see the most beautiful and well-known of these—the Nasif House—which was built during the 1850s by the well-known Nasif Family, one of the most influential trading families in the history of Jeddah. In the 19th and early 20th centuries the house was one of the most important buildings in Jeddah. It was here that King Abdul Aziz spent his first night in Jeddah, as the guest of Mohammed Nasif, after he led his victorious army into the capital of the Western Province.
Next, visit Altaybat International City for Sciences and Knowledge, a very beautiful museum that houses endless collections of arts, ethnography and archeology artifacts. After a lunch at a local restaurant, continue with a visit to the Abdul Rauf Khalil Art Museum, and a stop at the corniche of Jeddah (sea-side promenade), a major attraction that acts as a gathering place for locals as well as an open air museum displaying an array of modern sculptures.
Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Red Sea Palace (or similar)
CDay 3Fly to Jazan
In the morning, head to the airport for your flight to Jazan, where upon arrival you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the al Fifa Mountains via a 4×4 vehicle.
This mountainous region, which has many nicknames including “Heavens of the Earth,” is known to charm visitors with its stunning landscape and fertile, green flora—one of the most fertile places in all of Saudi Arabia. Mountains range in height from 3,000 to 6,500 feet, and stretch for many miles. They are especially attractive to photographers who will appreciate their greenery shrouded with fog, creating great landscape photo opportunities.
After, return to Jazan which is situated in the southwestern region of the Saudi Arabian Peninsula, a stones throw away form the border of Yemen. Like Jeddah, it is situated on the Red Sea Coast.
Visit the Heritage Village, a refurbished village that features the heritage, culture, lifestyle, and cuisine of the people from 13 regions of the Jazan Province. The village combines the authenticity of traditions with the nobility of the present. Visitors can experience the handicrafts section, which displays a variety of handmade items.
After, enjoy dinner and a good night’s sleep at your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Radison Blu (or similar)
DDay 4Day trip to Farasan Islands
Today, depart early via ferry for a full-day visit to the Farasan Islands. The islands—over 100 altogether—make up Saudi Arabia’s first natural protected area. This is a popular getaway spot for locals, with pristine beaches everywhere you look. The islands serve as a breeding ground for a large number of migratory birds, and are a nature reserve for Arabian gazelles.
In the late afternoon, return to Jazan for your overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Radison Blu (or similar)
EDay 5Drive to Abha
Depart from Jazan for a three-hour drive to Abha. On arrival, visit the market where you can purchase local handicrafts. Also spend time at the nearby Al-Muftaha village, where you can see the stone houses common in this region.
In the afternoon, return to your hotel for your overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Abha Palace (or similar)
FDay 6Abha
Today is a full day of exploring the region around Abha, with visits to Khamis Mushayt and the Habala Hamsan villages. Abha, which is the capital of Asir, is a highland province that includes the area of southwest Saudi Arabia close to the Yemen border.
One of the most interesting aspects of the area is its distinctive local people—not least of which includes the colorful Flower Men of Tihama located in Habala. Built in the mountain cliffs, this small mountain village was originally inhabited by a tribal community known as ‘flower men’ because of their custom of wearing garlands of dried herbs and flowers in their hair. In years past, the village was only accessible by rope ladder.
In Asir, visit museums and a traditional village that has a replica of an Asir home. Lunch at a local restaurant in Bin Himsan Al Habala, the location of the first cable car in Asir, named after Al Habala.
Later, visit Khamis Mushayt, a city about 25 km east of Abha. The city is known for it’s silver, spices, and traditional baskets, all of which you’ll see during visits to various markets.
This evening, visit a typical Saudi home and see how families live while enjoying personal interactions with some wonderful local people.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Abha Palace (or similar)
GDay 7Drive to Al Baha
This morning drive 4.5 hours from Abha to Al Baha, an enchanting and naturally beautiful area situated in southwest Saudi Arabia with valleys, plains, mountains, waterfalls, forests and the coast.
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then visit the Zee Ain village. Zee Ain is a traditional village built on a mountain top, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage sight. With mountains on three sides, it provided a spot safe from invasions. The houses here are built from polished stones, with two to four floors, and date back to the 10th century.
Later, enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, then settle into your hotel for the night.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Golden Tulip Qaser Al Baha (or similar)
HDay 8Fly to Al Ula
After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Al Ula (via a Jeddah connection), then transfer to your hotel.
Al Ula, located in the northwestern section of Saudi Arabia, was known as the incense route and was part of the network of routes that traded in spices, silk and other luxury items. It was the capital of the ancient Lihyanites and is well know for archeological remains, some more than 2000 years old. The area stands on the site of the biblical city of Dedan. Considered a ghost town, it is packed with a maze of 800 mud, brick and stone houses. These rarely visited ruins give you the opportunity to contemplate what life might have been like thousands of years ago.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Arac Hotel (or similar)
IDay 9Madain Saleh excursion
Today spend more time visiting the ancient houses, then enjoy the museum in Al Ula. After, depart for an excursion to the archeological site of Madain Saleh, where you’ll visit the Hijaz Railway Station, Nabatean Well, Qasr Al Bint, Diwan and Al Farid Palace.
Madain Saleh was known as “Al Hijr” in the ancient times and served as a stopover on a very prosperous trade route. Wadi Al Ula, the gateway to Madain Saleh, is known for its Lion of the Lihyanites—predecessors of the Natateans (100 to 500 BC). The two cities lie on 9 sq kms in an area of isolation, and constitute the kingdom’s southernmost and largest settlement after Petra, its capital.
Later, return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Arac Hotel (or similar)
JDay 10Fly to Riyadh
After some morning sightseeing, transfer to the airport for your flight to Riyadh. Upon arrival in Riyadh, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Holiday Inn Meydan (or similar)
KDay 11Riyadh
Today is a full day to explore the city of Riyadh, the capital and most populated city in Saudi Arabia. Divided into 15 municipal districts, it is situated in the center of the Arabian Peninsula on a large plateau, and is home to more than six million people.
In the morning visit Old Diriyah, the original capital city of Saudi Arabia dating back to the 9th century. This UNESCO sight recently underwent major renovations. Enjoy walking the old alleyways and seeing what life and architecture was like.
Later, visit Musmak Fort, an important landmark built in 1865 that is the site where the Al Saud Dynasty began. The fort was built to serve as a military garrison for his army, which operated under a Governor in Riyadh from Hail. The fort was eventually captured by Ibn Saud on the 15th of January, 1902.
Enjoy lunch at Assaraya Turkish Restaurant in the National Museum, a place of learning and discovery, meant to kindle pride in the Arab heritage and reverence for Islam. This national landmark is composed of eight galleries that tell the complete story of Arabian history from the creation of the universe to our modern era.
Also visit Murabba Palace, which is among the most important palaces built by King Abdulaziz. Built in the year 1937 A.D. to accommodate his family, the palace was composed of a number of presidential areas and service buildings. It was built in the traditional Najid style, using only local building materials.
After, return to your hotel for your dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Holiday Inn Meydan (or similar)
LDay 12Shagra & Ushaiger Excursions
Today explore the areas outside of Riyadh, with a drive to Shagra and Ushaiger, small villages 200 km northwest of Riyadh.
Ushaiger is one of the oldest towns in the Saudi region of Najd, and was a major stopping point for pilgrims coming from Kuwait, Iraq and Iran to perform Hajj. The historical village of Ushaiger is restored to preserve its heritage and has a museum which displays various relics and pieces from the village.
Continue to Shagra to visit the old walls that protected the city during attacks. It was built in the early 18th century and was in use until the mid-20th century.
After, return to Riyadh for your dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Holiday Inn Meydan (or similar)
MDay 13Depart
Transfer to the airport in time for your flight home.
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Dates & Price
Dates
Customized for you on your dates, or join a group on the following dates:
Feb 9-21, 2020
Best Time of Year to Visit
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f
m
a
m
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s
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n
d
Ideal
Unpredictable
Not Recommended
Not Offered
Journeys travelers are known for breaking barriers and exploring uncharted territory, so we weren’t surprised when we started getting requests for a trip to Saudi Arabia, one of the most difficult places in the world to visit. What did surprise us, though, was the depth of exploration to be had in this previously impenetrable destination, and the openness of the guides to share their country and their stories with us.
When done correctly, a visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a safe, eye-opening experience that provides insight into a culture that is vastly different than the culture of the United States. But before even considering joining this trip or visiting Saudi Arabia, you must be comfortable with a few ground rules:
Saudi Arabia is a dry country and alcohol is absolutely forbidden (as are narcotics and pornographic materials).
Women should be prepared to wear abayas (full-length garments) at all times, which will be provided when you arrive in Saudi Arabia. However, women do NOT need to cover their heads or hair.
Visitors will be fingerprinted and will undergo a retinal scan upon arrival in the country.
Most places shut down for prayers throughout the day, especially between 12-3pm. Often you will be taken to your hotel during these hours for some free time.
Authorities sometimes close sites or deny entrance to sites without advance warning.
If you’re OK with these ground rules, then get ready for the cultural exchange of your life. Join a Journeys trip leader and a local guide as you get to know the fascinating archeology, rock art, geology, food, culture, history and hospitable people of Saudi Arabia.
About your Guide
Khaled EL Qahtani was born in 1986 in Dhahran Al Janub (a small town in southern Saudi Arabia on the border of Yemen). Married and the father of three children, Khaled is the most coveted guide in the country, with many impressive credentials that make him the perfect guide for Journeys. He is the Vice Chairman of the advisory committee for tourist guides (SCTA—Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities), a Certified Trainer for Saudi Arabia guides (certified by WFTGA—World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations), and the 2011 winner of the Saudi Excellence in Tourism and Best Tour Guide awards. Plus, he has extensive knowledge of the Arabian Peninsula trade routes and what the stone carvings along these routes represent. And not only is he a wealth of information, his kindness and compassion always touch the souls of his travelers also.
Upon arrival in Jeddah, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for your overnight.
Meals
Dinner
BDay 2Jeddah
Jeddah, located on the coast of the Red Sea, is the major urban center of Western Saudi Arabia. It is the second largest city in Saudi Arabia after the capital of Riyadh, and is considered the most open city in the country. Jeddah is the gateway to Mecca, Islam’s holiest city, and is one of the country’s primary resort towns. Fishing and seafood dominate the food culture.
This morning, visit some of the old Ottoman houses, mostly constructed from coral and reinforced with wood so that beams crisscross the interior walls. You’ll see the most beautiful and well-known of these—the Nasif House—which was built during the 1850s by the well-known Nasif Family, one of the most influential trading families in the history of Jeddah. In the 19th and early 20th centuries the house was one of the most important buildings in Jeddah. It was here that King Abdul Aziz spent his first night in Jeddah, as the guest of Mohammed Nasif, after he led his victorious army into the capital of the Western Province.
Next, visit Altaybat International City for Sciences and Knowledge, a very beautiful museum that houses endless collections of arts, ethnography and archeology artifacts. After a lunch at a local restaurant, continue with a visit to the Abdul Rauf Khalil Art Museum, and a stop at the corniche of Jeddah (sea-side promenade), a major attraction that acts as a gathering place for locals as well as an open air museum displaying an array of modern sculptures.
Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Red Sea Palace (or similar)
CDay 3Fly to Jazan
In the morning, head to the airport for your flight to Jazan, where upon arrival you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the al Fifa Mountains via a 4×4 vehicle.
This mountainous region, which has many nicknames including “Heavens of the Earth,” is known to charm visitors with its stunning landscape and fertile, green flora—one of the most fertile places in all of Saudi Arabia. Mountains range in height from 3,000 to 6,500 feet, and stretch for many miles. They are especially attractive to photographers who will appreciate their greenery shrouded with fog, creating great landscape photo opportunities.
After, return to Jazan which is situated in the southwestern region of the Saudi Arabian Peninsula, a stones throw away form the border of Yemen. Like Jeddah, it is situated on the Red Sea Coast.
Visit the Heritage Village, a refurbished village that features the heritage, culture, lifestyle, and cuisine of the people from 13 regions of the Jazan Province. The village combines the authenticity of traditions with the nobility of the present. Visitors can experience the handicrafts section, which displays a variety of handmade items.
After, enjoy dinner and a good night’s sleep at your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Radison Blu (or similar)
DDay 4Day trip to Farasan Islands
Today, depart early via ferry for a full-day visit to the Farasan Islands. The islands—over 100 altogether—make up Saudi Arabia’s first natural protected area. This is a popular getaway spot for locals, with pristine beaches everywhere you look. The islands serve as a breeding ground for a large number of migratory birds, and are a nature reserve for Arabian gazelles.
In the late afternoon, return to Jazan for your overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Radison Blu (or similar)
EDay 5Drive to Abha
Depart from Jazan for a three-hour drive to Abha. On arrival, visit the market where you can purchase local handicrafts. Also spend time at the nearby Al-Muftaha village, where you can see the stone houses common in this region.
In the afternoon, return to your hotel for your overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Abha Palace (or similar)
FDay 6Abha
Today is a full day of exploring the region around Abha, with visits to Khamis Mushayt and the Habala Hamsan villages. Abha, which is the capital of Asir, is a highland province that includes the area of southwest Saudi Arabia close to the Yemen border.
One of the most interesting aspects of the area is its distinctive local people—not least of which includes the colorful Flower Men of Tihama located in Habala. Built in the mountain cliffs, this small mountain village was originally inhabited by a tribal community known as ‘flower men’ because of their custom of wearing garlands of dried herbs and flowers in their hair. In years past, the village was only accessible by rope ladder.
In Asir, visit museums and a traditional village that has a replica of an Asir home. Lunch at a local restaurant in Bin Himsan Al Habala, the location of the first cable car in Asir, named after Al Habala.
Later, visit Khamis Mushayt, a city about 25 km east of Abha. The city is known for it’s silver, spices, and traditional baskets, all of which you’ll see during visits to various markets.
This evening, visit a typical Saudi home and see how families live while enjoying personal interactions with some wonderful local people.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Abha Palace (or similar)
GDay 7Drive to Al Baha
This morning drive 4.5 hours from Abha to Al Baha, an enchanting and naturally beautiful area situated in southwest Saudi Arabia with valleys, plains, mountains, waterfalls, forests and the coast.
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then visit the Zee Ain village. Zee Ain is a traditional village built on a mountain top, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage sight. With mountains on three sides, it provided a spot safe from invasions. The houses here are built from polished stones, with two to four floors, and date back to the 10th century.
Later, enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, then settle into your hotel for the night.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Golden Tulip Qaser Al Baha (or similar)
HDay 8Fly to Al Ula
After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Al Ula (via a Jeddah connection), then transfer to your hotel.
Al Ula, located in the northwestern section of Saudi Arabia, was known as the incense route and was part of the network of routes that traded in spices, silk and other luxury items. It was the capital of the ancient Lihyanites and is well know for archeological remains, some more than 2000 years old. The area stands on the site of the biblical city of Dedan. Considered a ghost town, it is packed with a maze of 800 mud, brick and stone houses. These rarely visited ruins give you the opportunity to contemplate what life might have been like thousands of years ago.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Arac Hotel (or similar)
IDay 9Madain Saleh excursion
Today spend more time visiting the ancient houses, then enjoy the museum in Al Ula. After, depart for an excursion to the archeological site of Madain Saleh, where you’ll visit the Hijaz Railway Station, Nabatean Well, Qasr Al Bint, Diwan and Al Farid Palace.
Madain Saleh was known as “Al Hijr” in the ancient times and served as a stopover on a very prosperous trade route. Wadi Al Ula, the gateway to Madain Saleh, is known for its Lion of the Lihyanites—predecessors of the Natateans (100 to 500 BC). The two cities lie on 9 sq kms in an area of isolation, and constitute the kingdom’s southernmost and largest settlement after Petra, its capital.
Later, return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Arac Hotel (or similar)
JDay 10Fly to Riyadh
After some morning sightseeing, transfer to the airport for your flight to Riyadh. Upon arrival in Riyadh, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Holiday Inn Meydan (or similar)
KDay 11Riyadh
Today is a full day to explore the city of Riyadh, the capital and most populated city in Saudi Arabia. Divided into 15 municipal districts, it is situated in the center of the Arabian Peninsula on a large plateau, and is home to more than six million people.
In the morning visit Old Diriyah, the original capital city of Saudi Arabia dating back to the 9th century. This UNESCO sight recently underwent major renovations. Enjoy walking the old alleyways and seeing what life and architecture was like.
Later, visit Musmak Fort, an important landmark built in 1865 that is the site where the Al Saud Dynasty began. The fort was built to serve as a military garrison for his army, which operated under a Governor in Riyadh from Hail. The fort was eventually captured by Ibn Saud on the 15th of January, 1902.
Enjoy lunch at Assaraya Turkish Restaurant in the National Museum, a place of learning and discovery, meant to kindle pride in the Arab heritage and reverence for Islam. This national landmark is composed of eight galleries that tell the complete story of Arabian history from the creation of the universe to our modern era.
Also visit Murabba Palace, which is among the most important palaces built by King Abdulaziz. Built in the year 1937 A.D. to accommodate his family, the palace was composed of a number of presidential areas and service buildings. It was built in the traditional Najid style, using only local building materials.
After, return to your hotel for your dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Holiday Inn Meydan (or similar)
LDay 12Shagra & Ushaiger Excursions
Today explore the areas outside of Riyadh, with a drive to Shagra and Ushaiger, small villages 200 km northwest of Riyadh.
Ushaiger is one of the oldest towns in the Saudi region of Najd, and was a major stopping point for pilgrims coming from Kuwait, Iraq and Iran to perform Hajj. The historical village of Ushaiger is restored to preserve its heritage and has a museum which displays various relics and pieces from the village.
Continue to Shagra to visit the old walls that protected the city during attacks. It was built in the early 18th century and was in use until the mid-20th century.
After, return to Riyadh for your dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Holiday Inn Meydan (or similar)
MDay 13Depart
Transfer to the airport in time for your flight home.
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
The cost quoted is the Land Cost and is subject to change. This covers accommodations, transfers, activities, touring, guide services and meals as described in Journeys’ Trip Notes. The quoted Land Cost will apply when group size falls in the specified range and when travel is on the indicated dates.
When done correctly, a visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a safe, eye-opening experience that provides insight into a culture that is vastly different than the culture of the United States. But before even considering joining this trip or visiting Saudi Arabia, you must be comfortable with a few ground rules:
Saudi Arabia is a dry country and alcohol is absolutely forbidden (as are narcotics and pornographic materials).
Women should be prepared to wear abayas (full-length garments) at all times, which will be provided when you arrive in Saudi Arabia. However, women do NOT need to cover their heads or hair.
Visitors will be fingerprinted and will undergo a retinal scan upon arrival in the country.
Most places shut down for prayers throughout the day, and especially between 12-3pm. Often you will be taken to your hotel during these hours for some free time.
Authorities sometimes close sites or deny entrance to sites without advance warning.
Pricing and Payment
Reservations are accepted and confirmed after we receive a non-refundable booking deposit and a Traveler Profile Form signed by each adult on the trip as well as by the guardian for each child on the trip, and if space is available. For most group departures, the booking deposit is $500 per person per trip, though for some trips it may be more, as noted in the trip description.
The minimum booking deposit requirement for custom trips is $800 per person, and this deposit is non-refundable. A trip-planning fee of $250 per itinerary is also charged to cover costs of preparing itinerary proposals for custom trips. This fee is credited to the cost of the trip, but is nonrefundable if you do not take the trip. Custom travel during holiday seasons may require a deposit prior to trip confirmation.
An invoice for the total estimated cost of your itinerary will be sent with your reservation confirmation. For both group departures and custom trips, a second deposit of $1,000 per person is due 120 days prior to departure or at the time of booking for reservations made fewer than 120 days before departure. The balance as shown on your invoice is due 60 days prior to departure regardless of whether extensions or other arrangements are pending. Although we do our best to avoid increasing prices after we receive your deposit, in some cases it may be necessary to adjust pricing even after we receive payment to allow for changes in group size, rooming status, currency exchange rate fluctuations, fuel surcharges and other circumstances attendant to international travel. Late payments may jeopardize confirmation of your itinerary and in some cases may result in additional fees. If we have not received final payment 30 days prior to departure your reservation may be canceled and subject to our Cancellation & Refund Policy stated below.
We accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or check drawn on a U.S. bank account. Payment for airfare is required at the time of ticketing. Discounts that may be available for some trips are not available toward bookings made through travel agencies.
Late Signups
Early reservations are encouraged! Some trips and flights fill several months before departure. We can confirm your space on a trip once we receive your deposit and signed Reservation Form. We try, but cannot guarantee, to accept late signups. In the event that we are able to accept reservations fewer than 60 days before a trip departure, additional fees of $500 or more may apply to cover administrative costs necessary to expedite your reservation confirmation and transmit your departure materials. For reservations made fewer than 60 days before departure, full payment will be due at the time of booking.
Itinerary Changes
We understand that circumstances arise that lead you to inquire about changes to your itinerary, and aim to satisfy your requests. Once activities and accommodations have been confirmed, there will be a $50 change fee, in addition to the difference in costs for the services booked. When changes are requested within one week of departure, the change fee is $100. For changes requested after a trip has begun, the change fee is $200.
Cancellations & Refunds
If you must cancel before departure, you may request a refund according to the following schedule. Some trips require additional non-refundable payments as noted in the trip description or in the trip itinerary.
Days Prior to Departure
Cancellation Penalty
90 or more
Non-refundable booking deposit and trip planning fee, if applicable
45-89
30% of total land costs
31-44
75% of total land costs
0-30
100% of total land costs
Please note: cancellation of airfare, other transit, and lodging is subject to the policies of the individual carriers or providers and are not included in the schedule above. Additional cancellation fees are the responsibility of the traveler. We strongly recommend that all travelers purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellation or interruption which may reimburse you for cancellation penalties and extra trip expenses should a circumstance covered by the policy force you to cancel or interrupt your trip.
Departure is defined as the date on which travelers will leave their home state, province or city, or the trip departure date as indicated on the trip itinerary, whichever comes first. Cancellation date will be considered the date that we receive written notification of your intent to cancel.
Payments due at the time of cancellation remain the responsibility of the client. No partial refunds are possible for unused hotel rooms, air or land travel, trekking days, or other sight-seeing arrangements included in the land cost.
In the event Journeys International cancels a trip, for any reason, all money for services described in the trip description, less airline ticket cancellation fees, will be refunded.
Air Fares
We can help you to secure air travel arrangements to correspond with land travel booked through Journeys International. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. Journeys International may charge a ticketing fee for this service. For group departures, if you prefer to fly on dates other than those listed as trip dates, or if you arrive at your destination other than at the group arrival time, then you may incur an additional fee to cover the separate transfer, contingency, and coordination costs which frequently arise from arrival and departure on flights different from our regular bookings. We will let you know about these fees ahead of time, if they apply. If you must change your air routing after ticketing, there is a charge of $50 per change, in addition to change or cancellation charges levied by the airline.
If you decide to make your own flight arrangements, you must provide Journeys International with a complete copy of your itinerary showing departure and arrival flights and times. You should plan to arrange your own air travel if you are using mileage credit or originating outside North America, but please be in touch with our office before you finalize ticketing so that we can help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times.
Transfers Between Trips
You may transfer between some trips upon written request. More than 90 days before departure, the deposit transfer fee is $100 per person plus any cancellation fees charged by hotels or ground service providers. Less than 90 days before departure, full cancellation penalties from the original trip apply. In the event that Journeys International cancels a trip, you may transfer the full amount of your land payments to another trip without penalty.
Expenses Covered
Normally, our stated land costs include the cost of all guides, leaders, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, food and entry fees as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the planned itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but, rarely, factors beyond our control might require us to change our prices without prior notice, even after you have signed up.
Expenses Not Covered
Costs not included in the price may include: meals not indicated as included in itineraries; meals prior to arrival in starting cities; transfers, if not arriving or departing on the scheduled group flights; soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages; medical expenses, costs of hospitalization, or evacuation from remote areas; laundry; airport departure taxes not included on your airline ticket; accommodations en route to starting cities; visas; airfares; gratuities; and insurance.
If a trip must be extended or an itinerary modified due to weather, road conditions, labor interruption, lack of transportation, political or civil disputes, medical emergency, or other causes beyond our control, then the traveler may incur additional costs that are not included in the trip price. We strongly recommend that all travelers obtain travel insurance to cover these risks.
Group-Sized Pricing & Group Minimums
Many trips are guaranteed to depart at prices published on our website with as few as two participants. However, in some cases it is necessary to adjust prices to reflect smaller group sizes. We do everything we can to make a trip operate as planned even with a single participant. Additional costs for small groups amounts vary from trip to trip. Final decision to cancel a trip due to insufficient signups is made 30 days prior to departure.
Environmental Stewardship
Journeys International believes that we have a responsibility to protect the earth for future generations of travelers. International tourism may be responsible for up to eight percent of annual worldwide emissions of greenhouse gasses. Journeys International advocates that adventure travelers who make environmentally-conscious choices when selecting their destinations and activities should also make the environmentally-conscious choice to offset the carbon footprint of their travel to compensate for their personal contributions to global climate change. Every Journeys International trip invoice includes an optional donation to the Earth Preservation Fund’s carbon offset program to be used to purchase and permanently retire certified carbon credits to offset the carbon footprints of Journeys’ travelers. The Earth Preservation Fund purchases carbon credits that have been certified under a reliable third-party standard. Travelers who choose to make this donation will receive a receipt for 501(c)3 tax deduction. There is no penalty for opting out of this donation.
Pre-Departure Services
We look forward to working with you! After we receive your deposit we will send you a pre-departure information packet containing things like medical and immunization information, visa and other permit forms, a recommendation for travel insurance, packing checklist, reading list, cross-cultural information, and an initial invoice for the balance due. If you would like, we can also book your extended land travel arrangements for before and after your trip. About 2-3 weeks before departure, we will send you a final departure packet including last minute reminders and local contact information for your destination. We send some of our materials by mail, so if you are leaving home before the scheduled trip departure date, please let us know how we can best reach you so that you will receive your materials prior to your departure.
Please call our office at any time if you have questions about your trip or for additional information.
Lodging Accommodations
Lodging accommodations are usually double occupancy in hotel rooms, tents, or other facilities as described or noted in trip itineraries. Please contact our office to discuss pricing and availability of alternative accommodations. We try to honor specific requests for lodging, but in some cases we may have to book and confirm equivalent standard accommodations. If you are traveling alone but would prefer a roommate, then let us know! We are often able to match solo travelers. If a roommate is not available or if you prefer single accommodation, then you must pay the Single Supplement, if one applies. On some trips, it is not possible to guarantee single accommodations.
Fitness to Travel
Good physical and mental health are essential for the enjoyment of Journeys International’s trips. In many cases participants travel in rugged areas remote from modern medical facilities. Good physical conditioning is recommended as preparation for all trips, especially those involving trekking. Most trips require some walking. By paying the booking deposit and signing the Reservation Form, the traveler certifies that he/she is fit for rigorous travel and does not have any physical, mental, or other condition that would create a hazard for him/herself or other travelers. It is essential that any participant with a medical condition requiring regular treatment or which may be affected by vigorous activity, prolonged travel, high altitude, heat, cold, natural phenomena, or particular foods, notify Journeys International in writing prior to booking.
We assume no responsibility for medical care and we cannot guarantee meeting special dietary requirements or vegetarian needs. Participants may be required to furnish a physician’s statement of good health. Journeys International’s or the individual trip leader’s or guide’s judgment shall provide the ultimate determination of an individual’s fitness to embark upon, or to continue, a trip. Journeys International reserves the right to refuse reservations or deny participation prior to departure of anyone whom it deems unsuitable for a trip. Once a trip has been confirmed, medical circumstances will not be considered as exceptions to our cancellation policy. All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy for the duration of their trip. Proof of such coverage may be requested.
Duration 13 Days
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. This is the time period covered by the land cost. The total number of days includes the time required to travel between the USA and the destination country.
Group Size
The stated range indicates minimum required for guaranteed departure and maximum accepted on the scheduled dates. Exceptions can often be made for private departures.
Comfort Level
Deluxe
Activity Level
Gentle
Why Journeys International
Our purpose is to understand the journey you are on – not just the vacation you want to take – and to help you on your way.
We are here to help you plan the trip that will move you closer to your goals and help you fulfill your dreams.
We are here to help you plan a more inspiring, more provocative, more breathtaking, more transformational adventure.
We say “adventure” and not “trip” because, for us, a trip is just going someplace else, but an adventure is an experience that takes you someplace beyond your comfort zone – and therefore maximizes the potential for wonder, discovery, and potentially transformation.
Why trust Journeys to plan that kind of experience with you?
Journeys is an award-winning industry-leader with more than 40 years in business planning creative and thoughtful adventures in interesting places around the world
Our staff is professional and devoted, with adventure specialists in Ann Arbor and guides in the field who take pride in traveler satisfaction; many stay with us for decades
Our Ecological Code of Ethics has long stood as a model for others, and our Earth Preservation Fund puts our money where our mouth is
We go to the farthest corners of the earth – you’ll see some pretty remote destinations on our list, and if you want to challenge us with something new, we’ll likely be willing (though we’ll make sure you know if we’ve never experienced it firsthand)
We’re real people like you, starting with the real person who will answer the phone, right through the owner, Robin Pollak, who you can talk to any time you want (or even her parents, Joan & Will Weber, who started the company!)
We ask lots of questions and get to know you as well as possible to we can design the best experience for YOU
Your unique itinerary includes sites, accommodations, activities, and meetings with people hand selected for personal goals, passions, interests and abilities
Your personal adventure specialist stays with you from trip planning through departure to answer all your questions – promptly – and make sure every detail is handled so you are well prepared for your trip
Our partners on the ground in your destination will welcome you as a friend of a friend; we’ve been working with many of them for ages
We’re open and clear, and offer a complete picture of what you can expect while traveling. We don’t want to make an easy sale; we want to make an honest one.
24-hour emergency phone support while traveling
We’ll be excited to hear about the trip when you get back, and take all feedback seriously
Our travelers come back again and again, for five, ten, or more adventures — and they trust us enough to send their friends to us, too
We love what we do, and we love sharing our common passion with you.
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.
Comfort Level
Choose accommodations and amenities that fit your personal style
Simple
Our most natural accommodations. Bath facilities often shared, sometimes rustic.
Delightful
Comfortable and especially personal. Small to mid-sized lodges, typically with private bath.
Superior
Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined artistry, or extra-special settings.
Deluxe
Exclusive or luxury lodges, hotels, or safari camps with fine dining options.
Uncommon
The most indulgent accommodations arranged specially for private trips.
Single Supplement
The single supplement is applicable if a roommate is not available or if single accommodation is specifically requested. While single accommodation is not available on all trips, we will try and honor this request whenever possible.