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Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Headquarters in Melbourne, Australia

View all tours
Number of tours
1,163
Age Range
5-99
Number of reviews
8,654
Rating
4.6/5
Response rate
96%
Response time
3 hours

Intrepid Travel Reviews (8,652)

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Accommodation
4/5
Transportation
4.5/5
Meals
4/5
Value for money
4.5/5
Guide
4.5/5
  • Hiking Sedona's Red Rock Country reviewer 1
    Written on March 24th, 2024
    My son and I had a great hiking adventure on the Sedona tour! The scenery was stunning, the hikes were fun! Tolman was an excellent guide, who was very knowledg…
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    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Hi Richard, just wanted to say a big thank you for taking the time to provide your positive feedback! We're extremely glad to hear you had a great time with Tolman and with us! We can't wait to have you and your son join us on another one of our trips again!
  • Sail Ko Phi Phi to Phuket reviewer 2
    Written on March 22nd, 2024
    Pleasant. Don’t expect any sailing, it’s motorboat catered for tourists who want to relax, suntan and read a book and eat lots of good food. The wind wasn’t alw…
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    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Thank you so much for your feedback! We understand how the sailing can be underwhelming when the wind isn't with you on the days that you are meant to be at sea. As for the safety rules, we need be make sure that we abide by maritime law which can be frustrating but necessary. We are glad to hear that you still had a good time and that the crew met your expectations!
  • Bangkok to Singapore reviewer 3
    Written on March 21st, 2024
    With great sadness I have to write this review in order to protect other naive and tolerant tourists. The organization and handling of the tour was disturbing, …
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    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Hi Barbara and Krzysztof, we are so sorry to hear about your experience. A member of the Customer Care team will be in touch to address your concerns.
  • Costa Rica Experience reviewer 4
    Written on March 21st, 2024
    our intrepid guide was so informative and helpful. the whole experience was just wonderful. A nice sampling of several areas of the country
    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Hi Laura, thank you for your great review! We are so glad you had a wonderful time in Costa Rica, a truly beautiful place :)
  • GB
    Written on March 16th, 2024
    Good itinerary lots of new sights and experiences. Excellent guide
    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Hello Graham, I'm pleased to hear you had a great experience travelling with us! We can't wait to have you join us on another tour once again :)
  • AL
    Written on March 16th, 2024
    Genesis was one of the Best Tour Guides ever. It was very wonderful
    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Hi Anja! Thanks a lot for your feedback! It's awesome to hear you had a fantastic time with Genesis! We look forward to seeing you on another tour soon! :)
  • IP

    Southern India

    5.0Excellent
    Written on March 15th, 2024
    Great tour! Excellent itinerary, good hotels and well paced. Our leader, Garima, was highly professional and friendly.
    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Hey Ian, thanks for sharing your feedback! I'm happy to hear you enjoyed yourself! Looking forward to having you join us on another tour soon!
  • PL
    Written on March 12th, 2024
    Wonderful trip! Highly recommend! Our guide/driver Kevin really knew Kangaroo Island and provided some flexibility in the schedule. Accommodations in both Pe…
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    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Hi Phillip, thank you for your wonderful review. It sounds like you had an amazing time on this trip! We will be delighted to share your comments with the local team and Kevin's manager, thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We hope to welcome you on to another adventure at some point in the future.
  • IN

    Classic Costa Rica

    5.0Excellent
    Written on March 8th, 2024
    The trip was very well conceived and organized. We have seen beautiful spots and wildlife. We had the right amount of organized activities and free time.The gui…
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    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Thank you for your positive review, Ilaria. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your time in Costa Rica with the incredible wildlife and that your tour leader was professional and caring. We look forward to welcoming you on another Intrepid Adventure in the not so distant future.
  • Classic Costa Rica reviewer 10
    Written on March 7th, 2024
    great trip awsome people in are group make the trip
    Intrepid Travel commented on this review
    Hi Janharmen, thank you for taking the time to leave us a review! We're happy to hear you enjoyed your time on our Classic Costa Rica trip and that your fellow group members really made your adventure special. We hope you have some wonderful memories of your time in Costa Rica and look forward to welcoming you on a future Intrepid trip soon.

About Intrepid Travel

Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an adventure to the other side of the world. They travelled to Africa and without air conditioning on their modified truck, they filled it with supplies, some beer, a bunch of aviator sunglasses, and some friends. On that adventure, they came up with the idea that perhaps others may be interested in this style of travel too. Just like that, Intrepid was born.
 
Intrepid has come a long way since then, now giving over 100,000 travelers a year the opportunity to experience small group travel across all 7 continents. They use local transport, sleep in local accommodation from Cambodian stilt houses to Moroccan riads, and employ 100% local leaders. With three different adventure styles including basix, original and comfort, themes ranging from cycling trips to family holidays, and itineraries crafted with the perfect balance of must-see sights and free time, Intrepid caters to every type of traveller no matter their age, budget or adventure style.
 
The company has grown but their mission remains the same: to change the way people see the world through sustainable, experience-rich travel.

Introducing Intrepid Premium: a brand-new style of travel. From 2022, you can travel on this new range of trips that include all the best ingredients of an Intrepid adventure, elevated to a level never before available.

Highlights

Over 1,000 itineraries in +100 countries
Our adventure leaders are 100% local
Certified B Corp
Authentic, sustainable small-group adventures
Responsible business is ingrained in our culture
Largest 'small group adventure' tour operator in the world

Why Intrepid

Travel is best Shared
The greatest part about travelling with others is the people. The people you meet in the places you go, and the ones you travel with along the way. Understanding their perspective, their stories, and sharing your own; these are the memories that make travel special.

Well Balanced Itineraries
Intrepid adventures have a nice balance between group activities, and time to just soak up what is happening around you. There’s a good mix of time spent with your small group, as well as seeing and experiencing the places you travel to.

Getting Off the Beaten Track
Intrepid will show you the major sites in a destination, but it’s often the smaller things - the local markets, an out of the way restaurant, or hidden galleries - that really make your adventure special.

Responsible Travel
Responsible travel is at the core of what Intrepid does. By employing local leaders, staying in local accommodation and eating at local establishments, they make sure to support the communities they visit. Intrepid understands that in order for destinations to keep being beautiful, they need to remain intact - all it takes is a little bit of self-awareness and care.

All Travelers Welcome
Whether you’re travelling alone, with a partner or your kids, on a budget, prefer one or two pillows - Intrepid can help you get where you want to go. Their mission is to deliver the best travel experiences to anyone who’s up for them.

Tours run by Locals
Intrepid understands that to truly understand the place you are visiting, you need to be shown around by the people who live there. 100% of their leaders are locals and travel experts who know the destination inside and out.

Intrepid Benefits

Small Group Travel
The classic style, the small group. The company started with these adventures back in the 80s with a small group, one of the local guides, a group of excited travellers, and a whole adventure ahead of them. Not much has changed, except now organising logistics is a bit easier, and travelling with a group is generally a bit more affordable.

Solo Travellers
Solo travellers make up more than 50% of Intrepid’s passengers - what better way to see the world and make new friends than going off on an adventure with other like-minded travellers. Joining a group as a solo traveller can also be a great way to save money as you will be matched up with someone of the same sex to share a room with. And if you’d prefer your own room, there is an optional single supplement available on most adventures.

Intrepid Travel Adventures

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Questions & Answers

  • Is tipping commonplace in other parts of the world?

    Yes, in most places tipping is expected. At your welcome meeting, ask your leader about the local custom and advice on how much is recommended at restaurants or with local guides. At the end of your adventure, you may also choose to tip your Intrepid leader.
  • What adventures include a kitty and what is it?

    The Kitty system is operated on some adventures like the Overland and Basix. The kitty is a cash contribution to a central fund and overseen by the travellers and crew. It helps fund accommodation, camp meals or activities for the entire group. Contribution to the kitty is compulsory on some adventures while voluntary on others. Please check for the up-to-date amount 48 hours prior to your trip commencement.
  • Will the coach be modern and comfortable?

    It depends on where you are travelling and on what style of adventure. On a Basix adventure in Asia, expect a local bus with no air-conditioning. On a Comfort or Original adventure in South America, there will be reclining seats and sometimes even refreshments offered.
  • What type of ground transportation is used?

    Intrepid uses as much local transport as possible, which means travelling on everything from a camel to a train, minivan or bus.
  • Will I be able to charge my electrical appliances?

    In most places you’ll be able to recharge your appliances at the hotel. On their Overland adventures, most of the vehicles we use come with their own power supply and you should be able to recharge onboard.
  • Will I get internet coverage?

    It depends on the destination. Some places have Wi-Fi hot spots everywhere and other places will have limited or no coverage at all.
  • Will my mobile work?

    Many of the destinations are out of the way and there maybe limited coverage so Intrepid cannot guarantee your phone will work as desired. Contact your phone provider before you leave about global roaming and the costs involved, and get their advice on the coverage you’ll receive in the places you’re travelling in.
  • How can friends and family get in contact while on tour?

    Family and friends can contact Intrepid directly if they are unable to contact you in an emergency through email or phone. There is also a list of emergency contact details in the Trip Notes (for your destination).
  • What are the available communication facilities?

    Many hotels and public places have Wi-Fi so it’s usually possible to keep in touch with home every couple of days. In remote places (think Mali, Serengeti or the Sahara) or on treks or homestays, you will not be able to communicate as readily.
  • What standards of hotels should I expect?

    The hotel standards depends on the Adventure Style you have chosen. Basic accommodation is generally budget (1-2 star), while Original is budget or tourist class (2-3 star). On a Comfort adventure, you can expect tourist class (3-4 star).
  • Are hotels air-conditioned/ heated?

    When you are headed to a hot climate, it is likely that you will either have a fan or air-conditioner and if you are staying in remote areas or at homestays, you will need to expect the facilities to be a little more basic.
  • Is it possible to ask for the list of hotels we will be staying at?

    Intrepid only provides information on your joining and finish point hotels. They can’t give you a full hotel list before you travel since they have a few hotels in each city that they can alternate the groups between, and due to operational requirements may change last minute. At the welcome meeting on Day 1, your leader can provide you with this so you can email friends and family back home with the details.
  • Will I need a sleeping bag/mat/tent?

    On some adventures sleeping mats are provided, like their Africa and USA trips but you will need to bring your own sleeping bag. In Australia tents, blankets, linen and towels are provided so there is no need for a sleeping bag.
  • What are the facilities at the campsites?

    Intrepid have a wide range of camping sites which vary depending on the region in which your are travelling. Most camps will have the basic facilities as a minimum and others will have more modern facilities.
  • Will I be able to do any laundry?

    There are usually chances to do laundry, either through your hotel or using local services. Your leader will be able to let you know your options once you are on the adventure.
  • Are western toilets available on the adventures?

    It depends on the areas you’re travelling in. Some adventures have regular access to western toilets while others don't.
  • What happens if I arrive late and miss part of the adventure?

    Please let us know in advance that you will be arriving late so that the tour leader can leave information with the hotel reception for where to meet your group. However, if you plan to arrive a day or two into the itinerary (and our group has moved to a different destination), it will be your responsibility to ‘catch up’ with the group and Intrepid will provide you with the most up-to-date information as to where your group will be and at approximately what time. Intrepid cannot reimburse you for any portion of the trip unused, but this can often be claimed on your travel insurance.
  • Do I get any free time?

    Yes, Intrepid lets you explore at your own pace. When you get to a destination, your leader will offer options on what you can do. You may choose to spend time with others in the group if you like or simply relax in your new surroundings.
  • How difficult is the trek on Intrepid's adventures?

    Intrepid has treks ranging from relatively easy to extremely difficult. The easiest way to determine if a trek is right for you is to check the ‘physical rating’ of the adventure. If the rating is 1-3, it is manageable for those with a moderate level of fitness; those trips rated 4-5 will require a fit participant who has been training in the lead up to their adventure.
  • What is the name of the hotel where my adventure starts?

    While this information is not always available due to operational reasons, please get in touch and we will try to assist you as much as possible.
  • Are airport transfers included in the adventure price?

    Airport transfers are not usually included in the adventure price. The cost of the transfer will generally be more expensive than a taxi. This is because you are paying for a private service and a trusted driver will offer the security to travellers when they arrive into a foreign country.
  • Is it possible to request an early check-in?

    We can’t help confirm an early hotel check-in. If you do not wish to pay for the extra night, you can try direct at the hotel (they may let you in early if the room is free) or you can usually store your luggage after enquiring with reception.
  • What is the check in time?

    Check-in times varies depending on hotels and region. Generally, they are between midday and 2pm.
  • How does Intrepid support sustainable travel and protect the environment?

    Intrepid works to make their business as responsible and sustainable as possible, from their head office through to their adventures run in mutliple countries around the world.
  • Can I opt out of certain activities if I want to?

    Yes, if you don't want to participate in certain activites but please note that if you choose to opt out of an included activity, no reimbursement can be made by Intrepid.
  • Is it possible to book and pay optional activities now or during the adventure?

    Optional activities are booked and paid for on the ground on some cases. There are a couple of exceptions to this: Rio Carnival extras, balloon safaris in Africa and Urban Adventures. These will all need to be booked prior to departure to secure the activity.
  • What are optional activities? Where can I find details on optional activities?

    You will be given details of optional activities by your group leader once you arrive at your destination. You’ll also find more options available throughout the adventure, which your leader will advise you of at the time. Please contact us to request a copy of the Trip Notes for more details on available optional activities.
  • Is drinking the water in the countries I visit advisable?

    In some destinations drinking the local water is not advisable, so drinking bottled water is recommended.
  • What will the food be like on my adventure?

    Included meals are usually a great mix of familiar staples, local specialities and regional dishes. You also have the option to head out and discover local restaurants, food stalls and markets for meals not included as part of the adventure- your guide can always give you some good suggestions.
  • I have special dietary requirements – will they be catered for?

    Intrepid will try to accommodate all dietary requirements but in some places it can be very difficult to guarantee. It is also advisable to bring a card with your dietary requirements written in the local language for those times you are eating away from the group.
  • Is it possible to book a single room?

    Yes, you can: however, throughout your Intrepid adventure, rooming is generally organised on a twin-share basis. Some adventures do have a single supplement available for an extra cost.
  • Is it possible to book a triple room?

    Intrepid adventures are organised on a twin, triple or multishare basis. Since the bookings are made well in advance, individual room requests can’t be guaranteed. Get in touch with us and we can find out for you.
  • Is there a single supplement for a solo traveller?

    As a single traveller, you will usually have the choice of either paying a single supplement or sharing with someone of the same gender. The single supplement is not compulsory if you are happy to share.
  • Is a solo traveller allowed on the adventure?

    Yes! Many of Intrepid's travellers join because they are travelling solo and want to meet and share experiences with other people.
  • Can I add an extra night on the beginning or end of my group adventure, either before or during the adventure?

    You sure can. Feel free to contact us and we can asisst you with that.
  • Can I make any changes to the itinerary to the adventure?

    Due to the nature of a group adventure, Intrepid is unable to change the itinerary for individual travellers.
  • Can I deviate from the adventure?

    Yes, you can opt to sign off the adventure if you need to leave a day or so earlier. Please inform us before travel that you’ll be arriving late or need to leave before the adventure ends so that we can notify Intrepid's team on the ground to best accommodate your requirements.
  • Who is the group leader for the adventure?

    Intrepid can’t provide the names of a group leader prior to departure, as this often changes due to operational requirements. Rest assured your group leader will be highly experienced, knowledgeable and passioante for the region you are travelling in.
  • How many people accommodated on each adventure?

    Most of their adventures have a group of 12-16 people, though their group sizes are on average 10 people. Intrepid's Overland adventures are in purpose-built vehicles that can carry up to 24 travellers.
  • What are the types of people that travel with Intrepid?

    Intrepid offers solo and group adventures and the age requirement ranges from 18 or 70 years old. Intrepid travellers are couples, friends, backpackers and solo adventurers keen to explore the world and have some incredible experiences along the way!
  • Are adventures physically demanding?

    To determine what type of adventure suits you best, each of their trips comes with a Physical Rating to let you know how physically demanding it is… or isn’t. Please see the trip summary next to the tour map for details of the physical rating.
  • Are there age restrictions on your adventures?

    For the majority of our trips the minimum age is 15. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 18. Our Overland Adventures have a minimum age of 18. Younger children are allowed on our Family adventures and Short Break Adventures, but check each trip for its minimum age, which is located on the trip’s overview page on the website. Most of our adventures don’t have a maximum age limit, but a Self-Assessment Form is required for all passengers 70 years and over.
  • Does the hotels/ hostels have internet or WIFI?

    Communication facilities are always improving globally. Many hotels and public places have Wi-Fi so it’s usually possible to keep in touch with home every couple of days, if you so desire. In remote places (think Mali, Serengeti or the Sahara) or on treks or homestays, you will not be able to communicate as readily. Your leader will usually give you the heads up before you leave a place so you can send a quick email or two.

Contact our Travel Experts

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+1 844 311 8331

24/7 Support

Our team of experienced adventure specialists have travelled to hundreds of countries around the globe and have decades of first-hand travel experience to share. Contact us now to have all of your tour-related questions answered!