Explore the vanishing minority cultures and exceptionally scenic mountain country of southern China. The traditions, cultures and visions of ancient China are still accessible to travelers willing to venture deep into rural and mountainous regions. Dong, Miao and other tribes still flourish and protect their distinctive lifestyles, though their survival into the future is in question. On this trip you quickly leave the popular tourist routes and venture through the mountains, forests and valleys that hide and protect these little-known, friendly cultures of China. Your accommodations will be modest but you will not find yourself in traffic jams, smoggy urban expanses or long lines at China’s premier tourist wonders. Expect direct contact with local people in traditional dress, exceptional opportunities for cultural and landscape photography and a full sense of China as it used to be.
Arrive at Gulin’s Liangjiang International Airport in southern China. This major airport is served directly by many airlines from throughout Asia. Depending on your arrival time there may be opportunities to visit sites around the city. Situated on the Li River, the city was founded more than 2300 years ago and the surrounding area now has a population of almost 5 million.
Meals
None
Lodging
Guilin Plaza Hotel or similar
BDay 2River Cruise to Yangshuo
Leaving the big city behind, transfer one hour to a dock on the Li River, and board a boat for a leisurely cruise up the river to Yangshuo. This area is famous for the scenic karst rock formations along the Li River. The iconic landscape adorns the Chinese 20 yuan currency note. You will note fishermen, possibly some using trained cormorants to catch slippery prey. Boatmen ply the river on bamboo rafts, and farmers tend their crops and water buffaloes in fields along the river. Consider an optional evening boat tour to see the fisherman using the cormorants to catch fish.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Green Lotus Hotel or similar
CDay 3Yangshuo Biking & Light Show
Relative to other cities in China, Yangshuo is a small town, perfect for exploration by bicycle. With a local guide, spend a few hours pedaling through the spectacular scenery of the surrounding countryside, including Moon Hill, a limestone pinnacle with a moon-shaped outcrop (optional climb to the top). Meet the inhabitants of local villages. (If you’re unable to bike, no worries, there will be alternative modes of transport.)
Enjoy a home-cooked lunch in the residence of a local family. In the evening watch the incredible Liusanjiie Light Show, designed and directed by Zhang Yimao who directed the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Green Lotus Hotel or similar
DDay 4Overland to Longsheng
Today travel twisty, scenic mountain roads to the spectacular Longji rice terrace country of Longshen. Longji means “dragon-backed mountain,” imagery suggested by the scaly look of the rice terraces when they are flooded. The steeply and intricately terraced fields remind some people of similar agriculture in the Nepal Himalaya. You will have a chance to walk among the terraces which offer innumerable opportunities for creative photography, especially if local people are tending the fields. Through your guide, you may have a chance to discuss local village life with the people that you meet.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Lanyuege Hotel or similar
EDay 5Scenic Drive to Sanjiang
Travel north by private van to the lush green forested mountains in the boundary area of Guizhou, Guangxi and Hunan Provinces. This is the homeland of the minority Dong people. Spend time in their villages observing local customs and food preparation. Cross the legendary Feng Yu Qiao (Wind and Rain) covered wooden bridge, the largest in China and perhaps the longest covered bridge in the world. First built in 1591 and also known as the “Luck Bridge” and “Flower Bridge,” it is constructed entirely of wood without any nails. The bridge has been likened to a dragon and it contains both intricate architectural features as well as artistic carvings. It has been refurbished over the centuries but retains ties to ancient designs. Visit the nearby palace and pagodas inspired with centuries of tradition and lore. Stop at the local eco-museum, if time allows.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Sangjiang Hotel or similar
FDay 6Mountain Road Travel to Zhaoxing
After an early breakfast, travel four hours through breathtakingly beautiful mountain landscapes of Guizhou Province to isolated Zhaoxing, considered one of the most beautiful of China’s ancient villages. Bridges, drum towers, pagodas, public buildings, and local homes are all constructed of wood in the traditional architectural style of the Dong people. The town is set in a gorgeous valley amidst terraced mountain hillsides. En route to Zhaoxing visit several villages which invite walking in terraced fields. If you feel up for more hiking, finish the trip to Zhaoxing with a two-hour walk from Tang’an via the Dong village of Xia.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Local guesthouse
GDay 7Dong villages of Zhaoxing area
There are numerous Dong villages around Zhaoxing to explore with your guide in the morning, including Jilun and Jitan. Jitan is a hike uphill to a village with a beautiful drum tower and many old houses in a very peaceful and serene setting. In the afternoon you may explore more of the area casually on your own schedule and direction.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Local guesthouse
HDay 8Mountain hamlets en route to Rongjiang
Today start early in order to reach several remote Dong and Miao minority villages. These high mountain hamlets are nearly self-sufficient as communities. While many young people have left in search of better economic opportunities, the people who remain still dress in traditional indigo-dyed clothing and engage in traditional craft and irrigated terrace farming practices. You may have a chance to observe the indigo dyeing process.
The exit of young people coupled with the policies of the Chinese government to move more people into cities almost certainly means these villages will decline and disappear in the near future.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Dongxiangmi Hotel or similar
IDay 9Miao Hilltribe Country to Kaili
Even as it seems you must be as deep into mountainous rural China as possible, today venture still deeper into minority Miao country. Here in the very high mountains, you will meet people who have never been to a Chinese city. They find all they need at the local market which occurs every sixth day. You might be lucky to hit one during the time you are in this general area. Villagers in these areas recognize the interest foreign visitors have in their culture and with the assistance of your guide, it may be possible to organize music or dance demonstrations of folkloric arts. Each village has its own traditions, history, and style of cultural expressions making it well worthwhile to include as many villages as possible on your itinerary to maximize the opportunities for spontaneous encounters.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Zongheng Hotel or similar
JDay 10Miao settlements en route to Guiyang
This last day of exploring minority communities takes you to diverse Miao settlements representing Miao tribes known as “Little Flowers”, “Short Skirts,” “Long Skirts,” and Black Dresses” each with their own traditions. You will also visit Matang village, home of the Geija, a little-known, small-population, ethnic group notable for their batik and lace making as well as ornate flared headdresses. In the late afternoon drive to Guiyang, where you will overnight before your onward flight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Jinlushen Hotel or similar
KDay 11Guiyang / Onward
Transfer to the airport for your homeward or connecting flight. Ask about possible extensions in Yunnan, Beijing, Hong Kong or other regions of China.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Explore the vanishing minority cultures and exceptionally scenic mountain country of southern China. The traditions, cultures and visions of ancient China are still accessible to travelers willing to venture deep into rural and mountainous regions. Dong, Miao and other tribes still flourish and protect their distinctive lifestyles, though their survival into the future is in question. On this trip you quickly leave the popular tourist routes and venture through the mountains, forests and valleys that hide and protect these little-known, friendly cultures of China. Your accommodations will be modest but you will not find yourself in traffic jams, smoggy urban expanses or long lines at China’s premier tourist wonders. Expect direct contact with local people in traditional dress, exceptional opportunities for cultural and landscape photography and a full sense of China as it used to be.
Arrive at Gulin’s Liangjiang International Airport in southern China. This major airport is served directly by many airlines from throughout Asia. Depending on your arrival time there may be opportunities to visit sites around the city. Situated on the Li River, the city was founded more than 2300 years ago and the surrounding area now has a population of almost 5 million.
Meals
None
Lodging
Guilin Plaza Hotel or similar
BDay 2River Cruise to Yangshuo
Leaving the big city behind, transfer one hour to a dock on the Li River, and board a boat for a leisurely cruise up the river to Yangshuo. This area is famous for the scenic karst rock formations along the Li River. The iconic landscape adorns the Chinese 20 yuan currency note. You will note fishermen, possibly some using trained cormorants to catch slippery prey. Boatmen ply the river on bamboo rafts, and farmers tend their crops and water buffaloes in fields along the river. Consider an optional evening boat tour to see the fisherman using the cormorants to catch fish.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Green Lotus Hotel or similar
CDay 3Yangshuo Biking & Light Show
Relative to other cities in China, Yangshuo is a small town, perfect for exploration by bicycle. With a local guide, spend a few hours pedaling through the spectacular scenery of the surrounding countryside, including Moon Hill, a limestone pinnacle with a moon-shaped outcrop (optional climb to the top). Meet the inhabitants of local villages. (If you’re unable to bike, no worries, there will be alternative modes of transport.)
Enjoy a home-cooked lunch in the residence of a local family. In the evening watch the incredible Liusanjiie Light Show, designed and directed by Zhang Yimao who directed the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Green Lotus Hotel or similar
DDay 4Overland to Longsheng
Today travel twisty, scenic mountain roads to the spectacular Longji rice terrace country of Longshen. Longji means “dragon-backed mountain,” imagery suggested by the scaly look of the rice terraces when they are flooded. The steeply and intricately terraced fields remind some people of similar agriculture in the Nepal Himalaya. You will have a chance to walk among the terraces which offer innumerable opportunities for creative photography, especially if local people are tending the fields. Through your guide, you may have a chance to discuss local village life with the people that you meet.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
Lanyuege Hotel or similar
EDay 5Scenic Drive to Sanjiang
Travel north by private van to the lush green forested mountains in the boundary area of Guizhou, Guangxi and Hunan Provinces. This is the homeland of the minority Dong people. Spend time in their villages observing local customs and food preparation. Cross the legendary Feng Yu Qiao (Wind and Rain) covered wooden bridge, the largest in China and perhaps the longest covered bridge in the world. First built in 1591 and also known as the “Luck Bridge” and “Flower Bridge,” it is constructed entirely of wood without any nails. The bridge has been likened to a dragon and it contains both intricate architectural features as well as artistic carvings. It has been refurbished over the centuries but retains ties to ancient designs. Visit the nearby palace and pagodas inspired with centuries of tradition and lore. Stop at the local eco-museum, if time allows.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Sangjiang Hotel or similar
FDay 6Mountain Road Travel to Zhaoxing
After an early breakfast, travel four hours through breathtakingly beautiful mountain landscapes of Guizhou Province to isolated Zhaoxing, considered one of the most beautiful of China’s ancient villages. Bridges, drum towers, pagodas, public buildings, and local homes are all constructed of wood in the traditional architectural style of the Dong people. The town is set in a gorgeous valley amidst terraced mountain hillsides. En route to Zhaoxing visit several villages which invite walking in terraced fields. If you feel up for more hiking, finish the trip to Zhaoxing with a two-hour walk from Tang’an via the Dong village of Xia.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Local guesthouse
GDay 7Dong villages of Zhaoxing area
There are numerous Dong villages around Zhaoxing to explore with your guide in the morning, including Jilun and Jitan. Jitan is a hike uphill to a village with a beautiful drum tower and many old houses in a very peaceful and serene setting. In the afternoon you may explore more of the area casually on your own schedule and direction.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Local guesthouse
HDay 8Mountain hamlets en route to Rongjiang
Today start early in order to reach several remote Dong and Miao minority villages. These high mountain hamlets are nearly self-sufficient as communities. While many young people have left in search of better economic opportunities, the people who remain still dress in traditional indigo-dyed clothing and engage in traditional craft and irrigated terrace farming practices. You may have a chance to observe the indigo dyeing process.
The exit of young people coupled with the policies of the Chinese government to move more people into cities almost certainly means these villages will decline and disappear in the near future.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Dongxiangmi Hotel or similar
IDay 9Miao Hilltribe Country to Kaili
Even as it seems you must be as deep into mountainous rural China as possible, today venture still deeper into minority Miao country. Here in the very high mountains, you will meet people who have never been to a Chinese city. They find all they need at the local market which occurs every sixth day. You might be lucky to hit one during the time you are in this general area. Villagers in these areas recognize the interest foreign visitors have in their culture and with the assistance of your guide, it may be possible to organize music or dance demonstrations of folkloric arts. Each village has its own traditions, history, and style of cultural expressions making it well worthwhile to include as many villages as possible on your itinerary to maximize the opportunities for spontaneous encounters.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Zongheng Hotel or similar
JDay 10Miao settlements en route to Guiyang
This last day of exploring minority communities takes you to diverse Miao settlements representing Miao tribes known as “Little Flowers”, “Short Skirts,” “Long Skirts,” and Black Dresses” each with their own traditions. You will also visit Matang village, home of the Geija, a little-known, small-population, ethnic group notable for their batik and lace making as well as ornate flared headdresses. In the late afternoon drive to Guiyang, where you will overnight before your onward flight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Jinlushen Hotel or similar
KDay 11Guiyang / Onward
Transfer to the airport for your homeward or connecting flight. Ask about possible extensions in Yunnan, Beijing, Hong Kong or other regions of China.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
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 11 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 2 - 12
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
Delightful
Basic lodges to 4-star hotels
Activity Level
Active
Walking along hillside and stair-climbing
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.
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.