Back in Time to the Greek Forum
Destination
Greece, Europe
Duration
14 Days
Activity Level
Gentle
Comfort Level
Deluxe
For curious, reflective, well-read travelers, Greece poses endless questions to explore. This Rare Journey is designed to dig deep into that treasure trove of inquiry. As the birthplace of Western philosophy, Greece is home to a myriad of sites imbued with historical significance. This adventure starts in Athens, where Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle cemented their place in posterity as they propelled the Western world’s transition from a mythological worldview to a rational one. Visit some of the temples that would have been important to the population that hadn’t yet adopted these philosophers’ teachings, as well as the locations where the transformative debates and teaching of Socrates’ era took place. Also take a day trip to Delphi to see the site of the famous Oracle, which was still consulted widely during that time. While in Athens, learn from scholars about their perspectives on philosophy and about why the geography of Greece made this such a prime location for rapid evolution in thought.
Then, depart for several days each on Santorini and Crete. As you sip wine and soak in the rich colors of Santorini’s volcanic landscapes, you can ponder the theory that this island may be Plato’s lost city of Atlantis. Then on Crete visit significant sites in Greek mythology including Zeus’s birthplace and the Minotaur’s Labyrinth. Also, learn about pre-Socratic philosophy and the near certainty of stepping stones between mythological beliefs and the most famous philosophers of Athens. Before leaving, immerse yourself in today’s living culture of Crete and see why pride in Cretan island identity continues.
Your expert guide on this journey is Yagkos Chairetis, a native of Crete who grew up helping his father tend sheep in the mountain village of Anogia. Yagkos studied journalism in Athens and has also worked as an archaeologist, including 15 years dedicated to the Zominthos Project, excavating a Minoan Palace dating from 1700 BCE on Mount Ida in Crete. Today he is a leader in expanding tourism. His passion is traditional music and folklore, and when he isn’t guiding, he performs music that brings together authentic Cretan melodies with influences from contemporary jazz and rock.
Great For
- Intellectual Engagement
- Archaeology
- Spectacular Scenery
Wonder is the beginning of wisdom.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Athens
Welcome to Athens, where ancient history meets modern vibrance! Your adventure begins with a smooth transfer to the effortlessly cool Moxy Athens Hotel. Relax and unwind before a welcome dinner with a menu of culinary delights at Aiolou 68, just a stroll away from the hotel. Then, get a good night of sleep before the trip full of cultural immersion and historic exploration that awaits you.
Meals
Dinner
Lodging
Moxy Athens Hotel
Day 2 Full Day Athens
Set out today for a captivating sightseeing journey. Begin your day at the Panathenaic Stadium, a magnificent structure crafted from gleaming white marble, marking the site where the inaugural modern Olympic Games took place. Next, wander through the lush haven of the National Garden, nestled in the city’s bustling core. Explore historical landmarks like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, an ancient marvel from the 6th century BC, and Hadrian’s Arch, a gateway to the old city. Pass by the former King’s Palace, now the Greek Parliament, and witness the hourly Changing of the Guard at the Monument of the Unknown Soldier.
Continue your adventure, marveling at Athens’ architectural gems, including the renowned trilogy comprising the Academy of Athens, the University of Athens, and the National Library of Greece. Then, set course for the iconic Acropolis, where a guided tour will unravel the mysteries behind the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the Parthenon.
Conclude your exploration with a leisurely stroll through Plaka, an enchanting district boasting neoclassical charm and authentic Athenian ambiance. Admire the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Acropolis Museum along Areopagitou Street before wandering the winding lanes of Plaka, lined with lovingly restored neoclassical homes. Delight in cozy cafes, traditional tavernas, and quaint shops offering local delights, perfect for finding dinner on your own.
This evening walk to Mars Hill (or a similar venue) to enjoy a talk on philosophy.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Moxy Athens Hotel
Day 3 Athens Museums
Today’s journey leads to the illustrious museums of Athens, bursting with the timeless artifacts and rich heritage of Greece. Athens proudly hosts some of the globe’s most significant museums, each a treasury narrating the tales of ancient, modern, and contemporary Greece.
Begin at the Museum of Cycladic Art, nestled in the heart of Athens. Here, a splendid array of Greek and Cypriot art and relics spanning from the 4th millennium BC to the 6th century AD await discovery. The focus shines on the mesmerizing Cycladic art of the 3rd millennium BC, offering a captivating glimpse into ancient craftsmanship.
Then venture across the street to the Byzantine & Christian Museum. It houses an awe-inspiring collection of Byzantine art spanning from the 4th to the 19th century AD. This treasury boasts religious icons, frescoes, and mosaics, each a testament to Byzantine grandeur.
Continue to the colossal National Archaeological Museum, a monumental hub of ancient history nestled in the Exarcheia neighborhood. Here, artifacts spanning from prehistoric eras to late antiquity from Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt, numbering over 11,000, find their abode. Among these illustrious pieces, iconic artifacts like the Mask of Agamemnon, the revered statue of Zeus from Olympia, and the enigmatic Antikythera mechanism await our admiration.
Should you choose an optional visit to the Numismatic Museum, a trove of coins and currency beckons before we visit the National Archaeological Museum, enriching your understanding of historical economies.
As the day draws to a close, a philosophical discourse awaits, followed by a restful overnight stay back at Moxy Athens. (Note: If the Agora wasn’t explored on Day 2, visits to the Numismatic and Byzantine Museums may be omitted on Day 3 to ensure a trip to this important area.)
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Moxy Athens Hotel
Day 4 Delphi
Today we will travel to the ancient city of Delphi. This historical enclave held significant cultural and religious prominence in ancient Greece, revered as the seat of prophetic wisdom regarding wars and natural calamities.
Drive 3 hours from Athens, traversing the Boetia Plains and passing through the fabled city of Thebes, birthplace of King Oedipus, and a powerhouse among ancient city-states.
Upon reaching Delphi, explore a tapestry of landmarks. The Castalian Spring, the monument to the King of Argos, the treasury of the Athenians, the Polygonal Wall, the Monument of Platea, and the Temple of Apollo all await. Immerse yourself in this mystical location and attempt to unravel the enigmatic prophecies of the ancient Oracle.
Your visit here also includes the Delphi museum, a repository of profound archaeological discoveries including the Naxian Sphinx and the venerable bronze statue of the Charioteer of Delphi, tracing back to 476 BC.
Post-tour, stop for lunch before returning to Athens, navigating through the picturesque mountain hamlet of Arachova. A brief pause here offers a glimpse into the village’s hidden charms, offering an array of hand-woven rugs, local wines, and delectable cheeses if you enjoy shopping.
Back in Athens, enjoy an Ancient Symposium Tour. This tour combines the art of sculpture with wine and a look back in time to Ancient Greece. The tour takes place in the gallery of one of the most famous Greek artists, known for the replicas of all kinds of Ancient Greek helmets. You’ll have a short tour of the gallery and then participate in a 30-40 min sculpting class which you can take home as a souvenir. Next, enjoy a tour of the Minoan Room and have a wine-tasting experience.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Moxy Athens Hotel
Day 5 Cruise Three Islands
Are you ready for a memorable island-hopping cruise just a stone’s throw from Athens? Embark on a luxurious shared cruise and visit three fabulous islands of the Saronic Gulf: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. Enjoy a day filled with golden moments and learn why these islands are so popular among Athenians!
You’ll first set sail for the island of Hydra, which became famous thanks to the classic movie “The Boy on a Dolphin” starring Sophia Loren. It will cast a spell on you upon entering its amphitheater-shaped colorful harbor. Amble down the narrow lanes, relax over coffee, or buy souvenirs in the local shops. Explore the island on your own while strolling around the narrow stone-paved streets where cars are forbidden! From the decks, you’ll admire the exquisite architecture and the old traditional stone houses and mansions silently that stand witness to a long and turbulent history. (1 hour and a half)
Your next island will be Poros Island with its gorgeous marina and views to the mainland, and known for the many artists who found a second home here. It is a picturesque green island with a special lemon-fragrant aroma carried by a gentle wind from its many groves. (50 min)
On board, you’ll enjoy a traditional music and dancing performance as you cruise to Aegina followed by a buffet lunch.
Your island-hopping experience will end with Aegina, the largest of the three islands. Upon arrival, a guided excursion will take you to the Temple of Aphaia (cost not included) or you can walk around the main town on your own. You could also take a swim at the beach. (2 hours)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Moxy Athens Hotel
Day 6 Santorini and Sunset Cruise
Head towards the airport after breakfast and hop on a flight to Santorini, a cherished Greek island renowned for its stunning views of the Aegean Sea, picturesque blue-domed churches, and striking white-washed buildings. Your hotel was selected for its central location, enabling convenient access to multiple areas of Santorini throughout your stay.
Embark on a semi-private sunset cruise this evening. Embark on a scenic yacht tour of Santorini’s west coastline, departing from the Vlychada marina, located in the south. Stop first at the Red Beach, named for the colors of the steep cliffs formed from volcanic rock. Then visit the contrasting White Beach, only accessible by sea. The crystal-clear water reveals a colorful reef, making this the perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. Back aboard, sail past the distinctive rock formation called Indian Face Rock to observe the ancient settlement of Akrotiri from the water. Admire the Venetian Lighthouse, then pass the most visible part of the Santorini volcano and drop anchor at the Santorini Hot Springs. You can swim here within view of Nea Kameni, the volcanic island in the center of the caldera. For a natural spa treatment, submerge yourself in the warm water, thought to have medicinal power! On the way back to the marina, enjoy scenic views of the caldera and the picturesque villages on its rim.
Duration: 5 hours; 3:30-8:30 pm
Note: Snorkel equipment is available for swim stops, along with complimentary towels.
Meals
Breakfast, light dinner
Lodging
El Greco Hotel
Day 7 Akrotiri & Winery
Prepare for an extraordinary day uncovering Santorini’s treasures. First, explore the captivating archaeological site of Akrotiri, where ancient remnants and artifacts beckon exploration. Discover the vestiges of a prehistoric settlement, once a thriving hub during the Middle and Late Bronze Age (20th-17th c. BC), now preserved under layers of volcanic material, revealing poignant echoes of a distant epoch. Ask whether any evidence here supports the theory that Santorini was Plato’s lost civilization of Atlantis.
Continuing our exploration, venture to the island’s rural interior for a wine odyssey at a traditional Santorini vineyard. Witness the intricate process of winemaking amid the unique volcanic terroir and see the distinctive cultivation techniques. Savor a wine-tasting session, sampling three exquisite wines alongside local delights like olives, bread, and cheese. Led by a seasoned sommelier, indulge in the diverse flavors of indigenous white grape varietals, including the eminent Assyrtiko and aromatic Aidani, alongside glimpses of reds.
Cap off this enriching day with a delectable dinner at Bachus, included in our itinerary.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
El Greco Hotel
Day 8 Free Morning / Cruise to Crete
Enjoy a leisurely morning and then check out of the hotel. You will have a good portion of the early afternoon to explore more of the island on your own. In the afternoon (around 3 pm) transfer to the port to board a ferry to Crete. Once you arrive you’ll then transfer from the port to your hotel in Anogia.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Delina Mountain Resort
Day 9 Anogia Tour
Are you prepared to uncover the essence of Crete’s most authentic village? Immerse yourself in Anogia’s local architecture and cultural legacy on this immersive tour, crafted to transport you to the island’s cultural roots and traditions.
Upon arrival in Anogia, nestled on the northern slopes of the Psiloritis Range, you’ll encounter locals adorned in traditional attire, passionately expressing their heritage through musical rhythms and folk art. Renowned for their unspoiled hospitality, you’ll have a firsthand experience of their warmth.
From Anogia, your knowledgeable guide will lead you to the nearby Nida Plateau, a 1,400 meter high plateau within the heart of the Psiloritis Range. Here rests the legendary Idaion Cave (known as Idaion Andron), fabled as the birthplace of Zeus, the revered father of Gods. You’ll also explore the ongoing archaeological excavations at Zominthos, unveiling a small palace revered during the Minoan era.
The quest to unravel tradition continues with a visit to a Mitato, a stone shepherd dwelling nestled in the mountains. These rustic structures served as cheese storage and aging spaces, representing the earliest form of dairy craftsmanship in the region. Engage in preparing – and eating! – a meal alongside your guide, mirroring the local culinary tradition. (Depending on timing and weather, the meal may also be arranged at a village taverna.)
Following lunch, retreat to the tranquil Delina Mountain Resort, nestled amidst the Crete countryside, offering you a serene haven to unwind and immerse yourself in the island’s scenic beauty.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Delina Mountain Resort
Day 10 Mylopotamos Tour
Today’s itinerary continues to reveal the traditional connections between the Cretan people and their land. Begin by visiting the remarkable Zoniana Cave, an underground marvel situated in the village of the same name. Within its depths lie breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations, sculpted over millions of years. Then continue with a visit to the Axos Wood Museum, a distinctive exhibition celebrating the traditional woodworking artistry of the Cretan people. Also visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, nestled in Crete’s Rethymno region. Admire its exquisite architecture and reflect on its pivotal role in the 19th-century Cretan resistance against the Ottoman Empire. The final stop brings us to Thronos village, a picturesque mountain retreat renowned for its traditional tavernas and breathtaking vistas. Here you will have lunch.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Delina Mountain Resort
Day 11 Heraklion and Knossos
Set out this morning for the historical marvel of Knossos, an archaeological gem. Known for its remnants of the Minoan palace and ancient artifacts, our exploration will encompass key buildings and highlights of the Palace (c. 2000-1350 BC) and help understand the history and importance of the Minoan civilization. The Knossos Palace is a complex structure with a maze of various rooms, halls, and passages, which could have given rise to the labyrinth myth. The fabled labyrinth was said to be designed by the legendary architect Daedalus at the behest of King Minos of Crete and was once believed to house the Minotaur.
Next, venture into Heraklion, Crete’s capital. Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to gain additional insight into Minoan culture. The museum displays exquisite masterpieces unearthed from Knossos, Phaistos, and Malia sites.
Then, walk through the streets of Heraklion discovering historic monuments spanning the Middle Ages like Venetian and Ottoman fountains and churches teeming with cultural treasures. Find landmarks such as the El Venizelou Square, also called Lions’ Square, housing the Venetian Morisini Fountain, and the Saint Titus Square, home to the imposing Venetian Lotzia, now renovated as the Town Hall of Heraklion. Immerse yourself in the scenic vistas of the city’s iconic 16th-century Koule fortress, gracing the western fringe of the old Venetian port. These fortifications, alongside the enclosing walls, stand as monumental testaments to Heraklion’s grandeur.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Olive Green Hotel
Day 12 Arolithos Traditional Village / Beach
Spend today in Arolithos, a traditional village preserved to showcase the best of Cretan traditions. A stone’s throw away from Heraklion city, Arolithos is celebrated for its authentic architecture, winding alleyways, and indigenous crafts. After a guided tour of the village, our group will gather in the taverna kitchen to learn about Cretan cuisine, celebrated as one of the healthiest in the world. We will roll up our sleeves and try our hands at preparing a few traditional recipes, all using fresh local ingredients. Then, we can enjoy the lunch we have created under the shade trees on the terrace, enjoying the spectacular views.
Enjoy the afternoon at the beach.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Olive Green Hotel
Day 13 Morning Activity / Free Day
This morning we’ll decide on an activity and then the afternoon is yours to ensure a satisfying capstone to your time in Greece. Shop for souvenirs, seek out a favorite food, plan a final excursion, or enjoy a few final hours of relaxation before heading home. If you need help with logistics for a particular outing, your guide will be happy to help. Later, we’ll gather for a heartfelt farewell dinner together.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Olive Green Hotel
Day 14 Depart
Transfer to the airport this morning for your departing flight, or extend your trip to explore more of Greece. For most, the journey will include a connection via Athens.
Meals
Breakfast
Dates & Price
Dates
This unique opportunity is offered on these dates, and may not be repeated.
- Sep 15-28, 2024
Best Time of Year to Visit
For curious, reflective, well-read travelers, Greece poses endless questions to explore. This Rare Journey is designed to dig deep into that treasure trove of inquiry. As the birthplace of Western philosophy, Greece is home to a myriad of sites imbued with historical significance. This adventure starts in Athens, where Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle cemented their place in posterity as they propelled the Western world’s transition from a mythological worldview to a rational one. Visit some of the temples that would have been important to the population that hadn’t yet adopted these philosophers’ teachings, as well as the locations where the transformative debates and teaching of Socrates’ era took place. Also take a day trip to Delphi to see the site of the famous Oracle, which was still consulted widely during that time. While in Athens, learn from scholars about their perspectives on philosophy and about why the geography of Greece made this such a prime location for rapid evolution in thought.
Then, depart for several days each on Santorini and Crete. As you sip wine and soak in the rich colors of Santorini’s volcanic landscapes, you can ponder the theory that this island may be Plato’s lost city of Atlantis. Then on Crete visit significant sites in Greek mythology including Zeus’s birthplace and the Minotaur’s Labyrinth. Also, learn about pre-Socratic philosophy and the near certainty of stepping stones between mythological beliefs and the most famous philosophers of Athens. Before leaving, immerse yourself in today’s living culture of Crete and see why pride in Cretan island identity continues.
Your expert guide on this journey is Yagkos Chairetis, a native of Crete who grew up helping his father tend sheep in the mountain village of Anogia. Yagkos studied journalism in Athens and has also worked as an archaeologist, including 15 years dedicated to the Zominthos Project, excavating a Minoan Palace dating from 1700 BCE on Mount Ida in Crete. Today he is a leader in expanding tourism. His passion is traditional music and folklore, and when he isn’t guiding, he performs music that brings together authentic Cretan melodies with influences from contemporary jazz and rock.
Rates Per Person
Need to Know
Rates Per Person -
Group size of 10-12 persons
$7340
Group Size of 8-9 Persons
$7800
Rates Per Person -
Need to Know
Internal flights included: Athens-Santorini and Crete-Athens.
We are happy to have you participate in a Journeys International program!
Please read these terms and conditions thoroughly. They contain information that will be important to your planning and guide how we will handle any circumstances that may change in the midst of planning or while a program is underway. If after reading our materials and talking with our staff you decide to participate in a Journeys International program, please send us your deposit along with your completed Reservation Form and Explorer Information Forms. Important: Your booking is only complete once we receive your deposit, completed Reservation Form, and completed Explorer Information Form, and once we have confirmed that space is available.
Pricing and Payment
We will confirm your reservations once we receive a non-refundable booking deposit, a Reservation Form signed by each person responsible for payment, and an Explorer Information Form signed by each participating adult or the guardian for each participating child, and if space is available. Custom programs during holiday seasons may require a deposit prior to confirmation. The deposit contributes to non-recoverable costs of holding space and servicing your booking through the stages of preparation, execution, and follow-up and cannot be refunded if you choose to cancel.
We charge an additional planning fee of $250 per program for preparing customized proposals. This fee may be credited to your total cost upon booking, but it is non-refundable if you choose not to finalize your reservation.
Prices are stated in U.S. Dollars, based on double room occupancy, unless otherwise noted. We will send an invoice for your total estimated cost when we send your reservation confirmation. The balance as shown on your invoice is due 60 days prior to your program start date regardless of whether any arrangements are still 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 after we receive payment to allow for changes in group size, rooming status, currency exchange rate fluctuations, fuel surcharges and/or other circumstances attendant to the challenges of adventure.
Late payments may jeopardize confirmation of your program participation and in some cases may result in additional fees. If we have not received final payment 30 days prior to departure, then your reservation may be canceled subject to our Cancellation & Refund Policy stated below.
Payment for airfare is required at the time of ticketing. Discounts that may be available are not available toward bookings made through third-party travel agencies, advisors, or planners.
We accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or check drawn on a U.S. bank account. Paying by credit card offers you certain consumer protections, including the ability to initiate a chargeback if you believe we have committed consumer fraud. You may not use credit card chargeback as an alternative to compliance with your agreement with these terms and conditions.
Late Signups
Early reservations are encouraged! Some programs and flights fill several months in advance. We can confirm your space once we receive your deposit and signed Reservation and Explorer Information Forms. 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 program’s start date, additional fees may apply to cover administrative costs necessary to expedite your reservation confirmation and transmit your program materials. For reservations made fewer than 60 days in advance of your program’s start, full payment is due at the time of booking.
Program Changes
We understand that circumstances arise that lead you to inquire about changes to your custom program, and we aim to satisfy your requests. Once activities and accommodations have been confirmed, we charge a $50 change fee, in addition to the difference in costs for the services booked. When changes are requested less than one week before your program’s start, the change fee is $100. For changes requested after a program has begun, the change fee is $200.
Journeys International reserves the right to change or reprice any program due to acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control. Journeys International cannot guarantee conformity with the provided program plan at any point in time. Among other things, if necessary Journeys International may change the scheduled dates of a program; omit or alter sections of the plan; substitute lodgings, leaders, or conveyances; or change meals, activities, or waypoints; all without notice and without allowance for refunds and with participants bearing the responsibility for increased costs, if any. Should this become necessary, Journeys International will not be liable for extra costs that participants may incur as a result of changes, including but not limited to flight change fees, additional meal costs, or additional accommodations. We strongly recommend that participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, adequate to cover such costs.
Cancellations & Refunds
If you must cancel before your program begins, please notify Journeys International in writing by emailing info@journeysinternational.com or writing to your adventure specialist directly. You may request a refund according to the following schedule. Some programs require additional non-refundable payments beyond this schedule, as noted in the program description. In the case of cancellation, such amounts are withheld in addition to the amounts listed here.
Days Prior to Departure | Cancellation Penalty |
---|---|
61 or more | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable |
31-60 | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable, plus 50% of total land costs above amount of initial deposit |
0-30 | 100% of total land costs |
Please note: cancellation of airfare, other transit, lodging, and ticketed tours and activities is subject to the policies of the individual carriers or providers and is not included in the schedule above. Additional cancellation fees are the responsibility of the traveler. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, that includes coverage for trip cancellation or interruption and that may reimburse you for cancellation penalties and extra expenses should a circumstance force you to cancel or interrupt your participation.
Departure is defined as the date on which travelers will leave their home state, province or city, or the program start date as indicated on the program description, whichever comes first. Cancellation date will be considered the date that we receive written notification of your intent to cancel according to the local time observed in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Payments due at the time of cancellation remain the responsibility of the participant. No partial refunds are possible for unused hotel rooms, air or land travel, program days, or other sight-seeing arrangements included in the land cost.
If Journeys International cancels or postpones a program before the program starts for reasons completely within its discretion, such as but not limited to insufficient group size, all money for services described in the program description will be refunded in the form of credit towards a future program with Journeys in the same location originally planned, less unrecoverable fees and penalties already paid to airlines, accommodations, or other service providers, or the client may submit a written request for a refund to the original form of payment. If a program’s cancellation is necessary due to acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control, credits and refunds will be issued according to the standard cancellation schedule, less unrecoverable fees and penalties already paid to airlines, accommodations, or other service providers, without regard to whether client or company initiates cancellation or postponement. Once a program begins, there are no refunds for unused goods or services.
Air Fares
We can help you to secure air travel arrangements for Journeys International programs. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. Journeys International and/or the airfare consolidator may charge a ticketing fee for this service. For group programs, if you prefer to fly on dates other than those listed as program dates, or if you arrive at your destination other than at the group arrival time, then you may incur additional fees 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 may help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times. If you arrange your own flights, we can book ground transfers to meet you on arrival in your destination if you wish, and you agree to pay additional costs, as applicable.
Transfers Between Programs
You may transfer between some programs upon written request. More than 60 days before your program start date, the deposit transfer fee is $100 per person plus any cancellation fees charged by airlines, hotels, or ground service providers. 60 days or fewer before the program start date, full cancellation penalties from the original program apply. In the event that Journeys International cancels a program, you may transfer the full amount of your payments to another program without penalty, subject to availability.
Expenses Covered
Normally, our stated total costs include the costs of all guides, leaders, facilities, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, costs of described activities, food as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the activities described in the itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but 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 program descriptions; 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 program must be modified due to medical emergency, acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control, then the participant may incur additional costs that are not included in the program price. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, to cover these risks.
Travel Insurance
Journeys International strongly recommends that you purchase a Travel Protection Plan, or travel insurance, sufficient to protect your investment in travel, personal assets and health during your program. Doing so will mitigate a significant amount of financial risk and decrease your need to worry about things beyond your control. We do not require you to purchase such travel insurance; however, we know many travelers who have benefited from purchasing travel insurance because the insurance carrier assumed risks that would otherwise have been the risk of the traveler. Travel Protection Plans often cover things like theft, baggage loss, trip interruption or cancellation, emergency evacuation, emergency medical treatment, flight delay or cancellation, airline or service provider bankruptcy, jury duty, personal or family sickness leading to cancellation, U.S. Department of State Travel Warnings about terrorism issued for the destination, and other risks as described in the insurance policy. In particular, consider the availability of higher-cost “Cancel for Any Reason” and/or “Interrupt for Any Reason” policies that may allow policy-holders to recoup a significant portion of trip costs under a much wider range of circumstances than standard policies may allow; we have seen travelers benefit from this selection when public health crises, personal turmoil, and civil unrest arose in their destinations. Please note that while we at Journeys will do our best to help you to have a pleasant and successful experience, Journeys International assumes no liability for many of the types of losses described above. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance and you suffer a loss, then you will be responsible for the associated costs.
For your convenience, we will provide a recommendation for an insurance carrier that offers competitive rates and has proven reliable, fair, and prompt in responding to claims, but we can offer no guarantee that our recommended carrier will meet your needs and you are welcome to contact any insurance carrier that you prefer. It is important to obtain insurance immediately upon signing up for your program in order for problems arising from pre-existing conditions to be covered.
All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy that covers you while in your travel destination for the duration of your trip. For some individuals or for some destinations, it may be advisable to purchase a supplemental policy. Contact your provider for coverage details.
Group-Sized Pricing & Group Minimums
Many programs are guaranteed to depart at prices published on our website with as few as two participants. In some cases, it may become necessary to increase prices depending on the size of the group. We do everything we can to make a program operate as planned even with a single participant. Additional costs for small groups vary from program to program. When pricing for a group program is based on the number of participants, staff and guests of Journeys International (such as topic experts, journalists, photographers, leaders-in-training, or others) are not included in the numbers counted to determine the price. Final decision to cancel a program due to insufficient signups is made at least 60 days prior to departure.
Lodging Accommodations
Lodging accommodations are usually double occupancy in hotel rooms, tents, or other facilities as described in trip itineraries. Please contact our office to discuss pricing and availability of alternative accommodations, if desired. We try to honor specific requests for lodging, but in some cases, we may have to book and confirm equivalent-standard accommodations. In rare cases it may become necessary to make same-day or out-of-class substitutions.
If you are joining alone for a group program but would prefer a roommate, then let us know! We are often able to match solo participants. If a roommate is not available or if you prefer single accommodation, then you must pay the Single Supplement, if one applies. For some programs it is not possible to guarantee single accommodations.
Assumption of Risk
Throughout any program of Journeys International, certain risks and dangers may arise. These include, but are not limited to, travel by train, foot, automobile, aircraft, raft, boat or other means of conveyance; the hazards of traveling in rough or mountainous terrain; high altitude; undeveloped areas; the forces of nature; civil unrest; terrorism; labor interruption; close proximity to fellow program participants; exposure to illness or virus; and accident or illness in remote areas without means of rapid evacuations or availability of medical supplies and facilities. The unique nature of adventure programs entails inherent risks that may be involved in unique program activities and travel away from home and, in fact, the specific nature of these activities is often a reason for participation. Even if a trip or program is rated “easy” these dangers and risks are present. Journeys International and its agents and operators will have no liability regarding emotional distress, equipment, access to, or adequacy of medical care, evacuation plans, or emergency supplies that may be provided. When you sign the Explorer Information Form, you agree to participate in these activities with full knowledge of the dangers and risks involved and agree to assume all risks, including trauma, sickness, injury, and death.
While Journeys International intends that your experience be safe and comfortable, Journeys does not have legal or operational control or ownership of facilities, staff, services, or transportation providers and acts only as agent for the owners of such facilities, staff, services, and transportation. Journeys International is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act by any such person or entity, nor for any act or inaction of any third party not under its control.
In consideration of the right to participate in Journeys International programs and the service arranged for you by Journeys International and its agents and representatives, you unconditionally and fully assume all risks of bodily injury, death, emotional trauma, property damage, and/or theft, however caused, including those mentioned above, as a result of participation, and release Journeys International, its agents, and its representatives from any and all liability, actions, causes of actions, suits, debts, demands that you may have, including for bodily injury, death, or property damage, loss of income, and other claims.
Fitness to Join
Good physical and mental health are essential for the enjoyment of Journeys International’s programs. It is your responsibility to select/design a trip appropriate to your own abilities and interests. You are responsible for being in sufficiently good health to undertake your trip, and for consulting with your physician for medical advice regarding travel. On some Journeys International programs, participants travel in rugged areas remote from modern medical facilities. Good physical conditioning is recommended as preparation for all programs, especially those involving hiking or trekking. Most programs require some walking. By signing the Explorer Information Form, participants certify that they are fit for rigorous activity and do not have any physical, mental, or other condition that would create a hazard for him/herself or other participants. 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 for some programs.
Journeys International’s or the individual group leader’s or guide’s judgment shall provide the ultimate determination of an individual’s fitness to embark upon, or to continue, a program. Journeys International reserves the right to refuse reservations or deny participation to anyone whom it deems unsuitable for a program or certain activities. Once a reservation 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 participation. Proof of such coverage may be required.
Personal Conduct
You are responsible for acting in a manner considerate and respectful of fellow group members and local culture in areas visited.
You are responsible for reading all health-related information provided in advance of the program, adhering to all guidance given by guides and site staff, and conforming to the established standards of personal hygiene to minimize risk of disease. This may include a requirement to wear a face mask when in proximity to other people, whether indoors or outdoors, or other measures intended to limit the spread of disease; failure to do so when requested may result in your dismissal from the program.
Certain activities included in your program may require specific safety precautions. You are responsible for listening to instructions, adhering to guidance, and following the protocols provided for safety throughout the program. If you are unsure about safety precautions, you are responsible for seeking advice. If guides or staff perceive your behavior as risky, uncooperative, or otherwise unsafe, they may remove you from an activity for the safety of yourself and others.
Smoking or vaping are not permitted in buses, cars, below decks on boats, in tented camps, in designated non-smoking areas, or during guided tours and activities. Participants agree not to consume cannabis for the duration of the program and understand that possession or use of cannabis may be illegal and subject to severe punishment in some destinations. Participants agree to follow all local laws in the jurisdiction(s) where the program takes place and acknowledge that Journeys International cannot be responsible for ensuring participants’ compliance nor for any costs or consequences of non-compliance.
Sexual harassment or misconduct of any sort by Journeys program participants is not tolerated. You may not make jokes or sexually suggestive comments or gestures regarding the bodies or bodily activities of fellow participants, program staff, site staff, or any people you encounter during your program. You may not touch fellow participants, program staff, site staff, or any people you encounter during your program unless invited. You may not solicit sexual services during the dates of your participation in a Journeys program.
Environmental Stewardship
Journeys International believes that we have a responsibility to protect the earth for future generations. 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 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’ program participants. The Earth Preservation Fund purchases carbon credits that have been certified under a reliable third-party standard. Participants who choose to make this donation may also be eligible to claim a tax deduction. There is no penalty for opting out of this donation.
Recording
Journeys International may take photographic, audiographic, and videographic recordings during your program, and may use your image and voice for promotional and commercial use without compensation.
Planning & Preparation Services
We look forward to working with you! After we receive your deposit, we will send you a planning 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. About 3 weeks before your program begins, we will send you a final notes packet including last-minute reminders and contact information for your program. You are responsible for reading all information provided, and for bringing all clothing and equipment noted on the packing list. If you are leaving home before the scheduled trip departure date, please let us know how we can best reach you in case any details change in the days immediately prior to your program’s start.
Please call our office at any time if you have questions about your trip or for additional information.
Duration 14 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.
Group Size 8-12
Comfort Level
Deluxe
Activity Level
Gentle
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.