intrepid tours age range

Intrepid Travel

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Trip prices

$200 — 31,504

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Age Range: 18 - 80

Average Tour Price: $2,377

Accommodation Style:  Unique stays in boutique 3  and 4 star hotels

Group Size: Small groups - max 16 on most trips. To increase travelers safety during Covid-19, Intrepid has decreased their group size to an average of 10 people

Travel Style: Cultural immersion, active adventure, overland

• Group Tours
• Small Ship & Expedition Cruises
• North America
• Central America & Caribbean
• South America
• Rivers & Seas
• Australia & Pacific
• Middle East & North Africa
• Antarctica & the Arctic

How well do you know the world?

Intrepid travel reviews & ratings.

Michele Twigden

Completed 3 trips with Intrepid this…

Completed 3 trips with Intrepid this year. A prior last year. The Leaders are well organized, informative and fun. Travelling inland in Greece and the Greek Island...

jasonemeraldrealestate.com.au

The intrepid group were excellent to…

The intrepid group were excellent to work with and were very helpful at all times and made organising the trip a breeze. This was an excellent trip, and was enjoyed ...

Denise Hall

Exceeded expectations! Best of Morocco May 2025

Best of Morocco May 2025 was the best! Our guide was awesome, very knowledgeable, caring and organized. The itinerary gave us the whole experience. Everything was as...

Eric Schmidt

Greece Real Food Adventure

I took the Greece Real Food Adventure in May 2024. Sylvia was an ex...

Sandra Myers

A great trip …

What a fabulously varied trip to such interesting places. Accommodation was good,transport worked well, the guide was well informed about Indian culture and well org...

See all Intrepid Travel reviews

Editoral Review of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel - Quick Facts

Founded in 1989

No Single Supplement (rare exceptions)

Small Groups: max 16 on most trips (10 max during Covid-19)

Average Age:  48

Travel Style: Cultural immersion, adventure, overland,  sustainable, and active

Accommodation Style: Camping, Hostels, 3 /4 star hotels, locally owned

Top Regions: Asia, Africa, Europe, South America

Other Brands: Peregrine

Commonly compared with G Adventures »

Intrepid Travel is all about ‘real life experiences.’ With a name meaning fearless and adventurous, Intrepid offers nothing less than big travel adventures -- such as an 11-day hike through Papua New Guinea.  However, Intrepid is broad-based enough to offer varied experiences such as food tours in Greece, complete with a visit to a Kalamata olive grove.

What Makes Intrepid Travel Stand Out?

• Responsible travel
• Industry experts
• Authentic experiences
• Small groups

Intrepid believes that with great travel experiences comes great responsibility. They are focused on responsible tourism which includes not only treading lightly but also making a positive impact on the destinations they send travelers to.  As a Certified B Corp since 2018, Intrepid donates to grass root projects around the world, are a carbon-neutral business and are committed to animal welfare.

Travelers can rest assured when they travel with Intrepid because they will be in the hands of industry experts . Intrepid partners with local leaders to be guides for travelers. This gives travelers first hand experiences from someone who knows the area well.

Above all else, Intrepid strives to get its travelers off the beaten path and under the surface of the local culture. To accomplish this, group sizes are small, maximum of 16 on most trips. This allows for more use of local transportation and lodging, along with fostering cultural immersion . Intrepid also employs local English-speaking leaders who act more as a resource for local exploration than do typical ‘guides,’ shepherding groups from one place to another. 

Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Intrepid Travel?

• All types of travelers
• Cultural enthusiasts

Intrepid is one of the early pioneers of the “adventure”-style guided trip . Despite its informal beginnings and emphasis on younger, highly adventurous travelers, Intrepid has expanded to a global company with a broad range of trips to fit all ages.

Intrepid divides its small-group trips into three separate styles of travel, all priced accordingly. “Basix,” for budget travelers , keep inclusions to a minimum and offer plenty of free time. “Original” journeys offer more included activities and hotels, while “Comfort” trips offer luxury experiences that include the highest level of included activities and standards of accommodation, as well as roomier vehicles. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is a style right for your specific desires.

The age range on Intrepid tours varies widely from tour to tour, and they are welcoming to all ages.  The only exception to this are their 18-29 themed tours which are specifically for that age group. 

Intrepid travelers have  a real sense of adventure - whether this means hard adventure, or simply going deeper off the beaten path. Interacting with locals is an important factor when you travel, as is gaining a unique cultural perspective.  A sense of fun is also essential, whether it means going out at night with your tour mates, trying new foods, or exploring the local markets.

Which is better? Intrepid Travel or G Adventures?

Commonly compared, both G Adventures and Intrepid Travel specialize in culturally immersive and off-the-beaten-path experiences. They are top companies to consider if you enjoy local & authetic travel and value having lots of free time during the itinerary. See our ultimate guide to decide which is right for you: Intrepid vs G Adventures, full comparison »

Top Destinations

Originally focused on small group adventure tours to Asia , Intrepid has expanded rapidly over the years, while maintaining its classic, adventurous, and immersive style. Today Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 different experiences in over 100 countries, on all seven continents. Regions with the most trips include Asia , South America , Africa , and Europe .

Does Intrepid Travel include flights?

While all your internal transportation is taken care of, often utilizing traditiona local methods such as tuk-tuks in Thailand, international flights to and from your home and the tour destination are not included.  Their travel specialists can recommend where to look for flights however.

Intrepid Travel Style

Intrepid enjoys using local, unique forms of transportation. You might find yourself traveling by felucca in Egypt   or in a tuk-tuk on the best Thailand tour of your life.

Accommodations, which could range from guesthouses to home stays, are also locally owned, allowing a more authentic taste of the region while contributing to the local economy.

There are a few broad travel styles to choose from when deciding on an Intrepid tour:

1. Basix - Budget travelers who don’t mind, and in fact prefer, simple accommodations - camping and homestays with basic amenities, and crave a lot of free time for exploring independently will love these tours. Public transportation is used exclusively so pack light! These trips often attract a younger crowd who love the idea of throwing a backpack on, keep plenty of room for the unexpected in their schedule, and allocate their travel funds towards spontaneous bus tickets and street food instead of museum tours and 5 star restaurants.

2. Original - These trips take the backpacker spirit of local immersion, incorporating all the benefits that come with going with a planned itinerary. This style is called “Original” because it’s the type of travel that put Intrepid on the map...pun intended. Accommodations are still simple and budget minded - often homestays are used to give you a true sense of place, personality, and culture . Mostly public transportation is used.

3. Comfort - Intrepid is known for the active adventure style of travel and these trips keep that mentality, with a few more creature comforts thrown into the mix. You can expect higher luxury accommodations that include a wider variety of included amenities, transportation is mostly private, though you can still expect to use some public transport, as is the Intrepid way. More meals are included in the trip price, and more group activities - which means a bit less free time to explore on your own.

Why Choose a Tour With Intrepid Travel?

Intrepid is a good tour company if you don’t mind foregoing some creature comforts for a truly authentic, local experience . If you enjoy meeting locals when traveling, sampling new and exciting foods , and traveling in mixed-aged groups of 10-16 people, Intrepid could be a good fit for you.

It’s important to note, sometimes “ample free time” can be a blessing and a curse. It sounds great on paper, but if you’re looking to maximize your dollar and your vacation time, be sure you understand the implications of having a lot of free time during your itinerary.

For some travelers this is an absolute requirement, but for others it can be tough to branch off and explore independently - you also need to make sure you allocate enough travel money for independent meals .

The tour leaders are great resources of information for how to spend your free time, but if you like having a full day scheduled from breakfast to dinner, Intrepid may not be the best company for you.

Lastly, if sustainable and responsible travel is important to you, Intrepid has poured millions of dollars into local economies, and has a very strong emphasis on responsible travel. So you can feel good knowing that your money helps support some of the innkeepers, vendors, and communities that you’ll meet along the way.

Is Intrepid Travel Safe?

Yes, Intrepid is a very safe company to travel with and they take the safety of their tour goers very seriously.

In response to Covid-19, Intrepid has reduced their group size to an average of 10 people. Their guides have been fully trained on new sanitation requirements and Covid-19 health and safety guidelines.

They have also implemented flexible booking options. 

General Covid-19 Travel News

Some countries are beginning to reopen to international visitors, with entry restrictions, while others have remained closed. 

Keep checking back regularly to keep up to date with the frequently changing situation of the coronavirus.

Want more information about travel safety and the coronavirus? Read about where it's safe to travel to in 2020 >>

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Solo friendly.

• No single supplement
• Solo & Singles Travel
• Trekking & Camping

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About the company, the intrepid travel experience.

If you’re looking for adventure, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 25 years, we’ve been taking small groups of travelers on unforgettable trips around the world. What makes them unforgettable? Take a look for yourself and discover the Intrepid experience.

Our travelers have three styles of tour to choose from: Basix, Original and Comfort. Each has a different level of inclusions and accommodation, but all have unforgettable real life experiences as part of the package. Travellers can also choose themed trips, such as Family, Sailing or Food, to suit their interests.

Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

Why Intrepid?

•   Small groups - average of 10 people per trip
•   Sustainability - pioneers for the industry
•   Local leaders - authentic perspectives
•   Local transport - get close and personal
•   Local accommodation - experience real living
•   Intrepid travelers - like-minded companions 

Intrepid Travel has come a long way since its beginnings in 1989. From two university friends, a typewriter and a kitchen desk, it is now a proud member of The Intrepid Group, taking over 100,000 travelers every year.

Intrepid Travel is part of The Intrepid Group of companies, alongside leading small group adventure companies Peregrine, Urban Adventures and PEAK DMC.

Despite growing into a global business with over 1,000 staff based all over the world and over 800 different trips across every continent, we’ve remained devoted to the same grassroots values and responsible travel philosophies that we had at the very beginning.

On every trip we operate and in every interaction we have with a client, supplier or local, we live our core values everyday:

• Integrity – Doing the right thing
• Responsible – Think global, act local
• Growth – Stakeholders in our own success
• Innovation – Thriving on new ideas and embracing change
• Fun – It’s engrained into who we are and what we do
• Passion – We are inspired by the work we do and the trips we offer

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Intrepid Travel Trips & Specials

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Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top Intrepid Travel Trip Categories

Intrepid travel company ranking by category, similar companies, associations, united states tour operators association.

USTOA is a nonprofit professional association representing the tour operator industry.Its members are made up of companies who provide services worldwide but who conduct business in the U.S.

Are flights included?

Do I need Travel Insurance?

Yes. Most tour companies require you to have travel insurance, which covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. There are  many options for travel insurance , and Intrepid recommends Travel Guard, which you can purchase through them during the booking process.

What is the Average Group Size?

What is the age range?

Is there a Single Supplement for Solo Travelers?

Are kids welcome?

What kind of luggage should I bring?

Does Intrepid have a loyalty program?

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Intrepid Emphasizes Young Adult Travel, Expands Age Range to 18-35

Canoe adventure in Vietnam. Photo: Intrepid

Intrepid is emphasizing young adult travel by expanding the age range and offering the popular group new, curated tour options.  

The tour operator previously set its young adult travel groups at ages 18 to 29 but has just expanded the age range up to 35. The company now offers more than 50 small-group tours across the globe for 18- to 35-year-olds.  

“We had direct feedback and inquiries from early 30s travelers asking if they could join these groups. This has been going on for several years,” Matt Berna, president of the Americas at Intrepid, told TMR. “The trips are slightly different from our standard trips, including more free time and more value for their money.”  

Travelers in their mid-20s were Intrepid’s most popular age group for many years, Berna explained. But that group has now aged into their early 30s, and the tour operator now sees that most customers are around 30 to 33 years old (“before families and mortgages,” Berna said) or in the 65+ category.  

After years of folks in their 30s asking to join the young adult group tours, Intrepid embarked on a year-long process of surveying both current and prospective customers in their 20s and 30s about their travel habits and how they felt about changing the age range to include folks ages 30 to 35.  

Intrepid found that people in their 20s and early 30s have the same travel interests and want to travel with each other. The majority of Intrepid’s customers are solo travelers, and about 65% are women, so having an 18-to-35s small group option brings security that a traveler won’t be the only young woman in a group of retirees, for example.  

“Especially with solo travelers, there is the worry that they will not be put into the right group for them, or it won’t be the right experience,” Berna explained.  

Intrepid also found that their young adult customers want active experiences, value for money, and unique connections on their trips. This year, Intrepid has added 15 new tours to its list of more than 50 options for 18-to-35-year-olds.  

Active experiences  Trips such as the 15-day Epic Everest Base Camp Trek or the eight-day One Week in Costa Rica offer active experiences in nature for young adults. The max group size for these trips is 16 people. Young travelers are “there to be in this group environment and be more adventurous,” Berna noted, making trips like these ideal for the age range.  

During the Everest Base Camp Trek, travelers hike the world’s most famous mountain, visit the National Park Museum and the Thyangboche Monastery, and embark on a sunrise walk on the final day. For the Costa Rica trip, there are opportunities for hikes, bicycling, cooking classes, and more.  

Intrepid’s young adult trips tend to have fewer inclusions and more add-ons, giving travelers flexibility to venture out in their own free time if they choose.  

Value for money  To give young travelers more value for their money, Intrepid offers shared basic accommodations that place two travelers of the same gender in one room. Travelers can pay an additional fee if they do not wish to share a room.  

Intrepid also offers more value – and authenticity – to its young adult trips by including home stays and homecooked meals within the destination, as well as utilizing public transportation and overnight trains, such as on its Essential Vietnam trip.  

Unique connections   “Young adult travelers are looking for meaningful connections. They’re not as concerned or looking for big party trips or touristy experiences,” Berna said. “They want spontaneity, and they want to feel their trip was truly unique.”  

To give this genuine experience to its travelers, Intrepid has local guides leading each of its tours, such as on its Essential South Korea trip. Much of it is walking tours led by a local leader covering an array of pop culture, cuisine, nature, and more. South Korea is an especially popular destination for young people right now, with the rise of K-Pop and K dramas in the West.  

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Intrepid Travel In-depth Review: Are their tours any good? [2024]

A tour that offers trips where you can spread positive impacts to the place you're visiting ... Are they too good to be true? What are their pros and cons? Find out now.

Have you ever thought about the impacts you have when you're on your trip? The way you travel, through what transportation methods you take, how you engage with communities, and what you leave behind after the trip can have various impacts on the destination you traveled to. 

In this review, we bring to you a review of a travel agency that'll help you plan your next trip while making sure that you travel responsibly. Stick around and read the entire Intrepid Travel review to find out how you can make use of this service.

What is Intrepid Travel?

In 1988, two friends, Darrell and Manch, were traveling with friends in a truck in parts of Africa when they came to a realization. They realized that more people would enjoy traveling while minimizing impacts by talking to many travelers. That kickstarted the tour operator  Intrepid Travel .

Apart from presenting a travel itinerary, Intrepid Travel also guarantees their customers a responsible travel experience with them. In order to ensure responsibility while traveling, Intrepid Travel has partnered up with many global and local funds and organizations like Blue Carbon Lab and Eden Reforestation Project.

Intrepid Travel has its own foundation, which funds initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and work towards a sustainable future. 

How does Intrepid Travel work?

Intrepid Travel has a simple and user-friendly interface. You could insert basic information and get a ready-made travel itinerary or have a trip tailor-made based on your preferences.

Readymade trips 

Once you visit the Intrepid Travel website, you can search for itineraries based on your choice of destination and the date of travel. Intrepid Travel will provide you with a range of options to choose from based on the information provided. These options vary from  Premium, Best of,  to  Classic , etc. 

Alternatively, you could also select from various styles and themes and find ready-made trips. In order to look for themes, you have to click on the  Ways to travel  option on the panel at the top of the website. These themes include 18s to 29s, Active Adventures, Adventure Cruising, Cycling, Expeditions, Family, Festivals, Food,  Lonely Planet  Experiences, Polar, Retreats, Sailing, Short-Breaks, Urban Adventures, Walking and Trekking, and Wildlife. 

Personalized trips 

Travelers using Intrepid Travels can also select tailor-made trips from the themes section. In this, you can flexibly choose when and where you want to go and what you want to do because the ready-made itineraries from Intrepid can't be altered. 

You would be traveling with local leaders or travel guides from any travel themes or styles. They will guide you on everything and even deal with the logistics of traveling. With their extensive knowledge of local culture and environments, you will surely get an immersive traveling experience. The help of local leaders also makes group travels easier. 

How old do you have to be to travel with Intrepid?

If you are traveling without adult supervision, you have to be 18 years of age or above. Styles of travel include Premium, Comfort, Original, and Basix. Depending on the style, the provision of services varies, but you would still get the basic services, though. 

Although there aren't any readily available promo codes from Intrepid Travel, they almost always have deals on their website. If you aren't looking to travel anytime soon, you can check the discounts available on the website. If you are making some late plans, you can choose to look at the last-minute deals they have to offer.

What we like about Intrepid Travel

• Ready-made packages

Intrepid Travel makes your trips so much easier. Choosing from a specific style and/or theme is the best part of this. It allows you to select a trip that is to your liking and within your budget. The intersection of the style and theme gives you even more options. What's even more remarkable is that all the destinations, accommodation, food, and transportation are arranged for you as you reach your destination.

• Personalization

The thing with ready-made packages is that they don't have flexible arrival and departure dates. If you're someone who needs that freedom in traveling, tailor-made packages are just the thing for you. Even if you are the one who's deciding things, you wouldn't be the one spending time getting things together. Intrepid Travel and its local leaders will do everything for you. 

• Responsible travel

Responsible travel includes less carbon footprint, respect towards local cultures, and support for local communities. Your use of Intrepid Travel would contribute towards funding grassroots organizations, initiatives, and local communities. After all, responsible traveling isn't just where you'll be going; it's also on you as an individual traveler. Intrepid Travel adheres to COVID guidelines and ensures your safety.

While you aren't required to have travel insurance, Intrepid Travel will recommend travel insurance services, like World Nomads ,  if you think it's something you would like to have.

What's not-so-great about Intrepid Travel

• Complaints on service 

Intrepid Travel doesn't have a lot of bad reviews. But, we came across some complaints about low-quality accommodation, unreliable local guides, and poor service. Some negative reviews spoke of Intrepid Travel's delay/failure to process refunds during the pandemic. As always, it's important to know that no service is perfect, and there could be issues occasionally. 

Compared to traveling solo, heading on a group tour with companies like Intrepid is a bit more expensive because most travel logistics and planning are arranged for you. Also, when you travel with a group, there's a higher chance of spending on extra "group" activities. However, you may not necessarily enjoy all of them. In this regard, we think it's better to  backpack  solo if you are quite a seasoned traveler. 

Is Intrepid Travel Worth It?

Most of the past users have left satisfying reviews of Intrepid Travel. We also recommend it to travelers that want more out of your travel experience. We believe what they're offering is a great way to explore the world while maintaining a positive impact on the places you go!

You also have many other choices like  G Adventures ,  EF Ultimate Break , and  Under30Experiences  for guided group tours. So, do consider these options before you pick one! 

Our Rating: 4.6/5

• Tours that makes a positive impact
• Responsible travel (low footprint)
• Great tour packages
• All Inclusive
• Few complaints on quality of the tours
• Slightly expensive

If you're looking to plan your own trip.

Regardless of which tour guides you pick, you're definitely all set to make some memorable experiences. We believe that you'll have a better time by planning and going on a trip solo or with friends and family! After all, traveling at your own pace and your own determined budget is always a win.

If you're planning to travel with your friends or colleagues or any other group of people, Pilot might be able to help you out with it.

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Essential Turkey

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Sightseeing

Traveled in April 2019

• Explore Istanbul's vibrant streets and cuisine
• Visit Gallipoli's historic WWI battlefields
• Discover ancient Troy and Ayvalik's culture
• Soak in Pamukkale's thermal 'cotton' pools
• Sail the Mediterranean and see sunken ruins
• Introduction
• Day 1 Istanbul
• Day 2 Canakkale
• Day 3 Ayvalik
• Day 4 Ayvalik
• Day 5 Selcuk
• Day 6 Pamukkale
• Day 8 Southern Coast Sailing / Kas
• Day 9 Antalya
• Day 10 Antalya

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Guesthouse (multi-share)

Customer Photos

Operated by

Intrepid Travel

Number of tours

5 to 99 years old

Response time

Response rate

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...

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.4
• Itinerary Excellent 4.3
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.2
• Accommodation Excellent 4.1
• Food Good 4.0
• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First

• AK Amro · 2nd October 2019 Simply amazing! The guide, destinations, and experience was truly magical! Trip date: September 2019
• A George M · 18th September 2019 The responsible travel ethos, and the amazing tour guide I had. Trip date: April 2019
• A Ashley B · 18th September 2019 The trip was great and the price was very reasonable. Our guide Sefa Uz worked very hard to make sure our needs and wants were met along the way. Trip date: April 2019
• A Anushka L · 18th September 2019 Sefa Uz, the tour guide, was absolutely amazing. Could not have had a better intro to Turkey - was very efficient, had an excellent energy, and had a lot of really interesting information about the trip. The itinerary was also very diverse and we got to... Show more Trip date: April 2019
• A Alessandro M · 18th September 2019 I really enjoyed traveling this way. It really made me feel connected to the local community and Turkey. Sefa was an amazing tour guide, not only for his preparation and passion for history, but also for going above and beyond helping us with everything... Show more Trip date: April 2019
• A James W · 18th September 2019 Gulce was an excellent tour guide. Trip date: April 2019
• A Amanda H · 18th September 2019 Felt like an authentic travel experience. You get to see the real Turkey. Excellent travel guide (Gulce). Loved every minute of it! Trip date: April 2019

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• August 2025
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• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 15 Mar, 2025 Monday 24 Mar, 2025 English €1,086 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
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What our customers ask about this tour

The group will consist of like-aged individuals typically ranging from 18 to 29 years old, focusing on creating a cohesive group dynamic.

Most travelers find it convenient to carry a backpack or a wheeled bag with straps for ease of mobility during the tour.

You should be familiar with the Essential Trip Information, which includes visa requirements, detailed itinerary, and travel tips to ensure a smooth journey.

Extra services like pre/post accommodation or airport transfers should be requested as early as possible, ideally at least 14 days before departure.

The age group is specifically 18-29. However, considerations may be made if you are slightly above this age range, depending on the tour's requirements.

The tour rates are based on twin sharing, but a single supplement can be purchased to secure a private room.

It is recommended to carry your luggage in a backpack. Bags or backpacks with wheels that also have carry straps could be convenient.

Single rooms are bookable with a supplement, subject to availability, except on certain days of the trip.

While travel documents are not mandatory for the meeting point, it is advisable to have your TourRadar confirmation and travel insurance for security.

The official check-in time is 13:00, but you can leave your luggage with reception if you arrive earlier.

Good to Know

• Currency $ US Dollar

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Premium Turkey in Depth

15 days | journey into the heart of turkey and discover hidden coves, fairytale landscapes and friendly locals.

Get to right into the heart of Turkish culture on this 15-day Premium adventure. Discover stunning islands and a sunken city on a locally guided boat cruise, get hands-on in a Turkish cooking class using homegrown ingredients and join a local woman in her home for a specially prepared feast. Take guided tours of Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Antalya and more, and marvel at diverse landscapes, from the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the glittering Mediterranean Coast. With the option to take a hot air balloon at sunrise over the incredible landscapes of Cappadocia and some free time to make your own discoveries, you’ll fall in love with Turkey in just two weeks.

Trip overview

Our best 4-star accommodation and the highest level of service

All must-see locations plus authentic experiences exclusive to Premium

Trips led by our most experienced and highest-rated local leaders

• Join an experienced local leader as you stroll the ancient streets of Ephesus, uncover the secrets of Sagalassos, explore the legendary ruins of Troy and discover Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and the Million.
• Enjoy a cruise around the hidden coves and islets of Turkey’s southern coast during an Exclusive Experience guided by a local couple who have been navigating the waters for years.
• Feast your eyes on the best of Turkey's otherworldly sights, from the Cotton Castle of Pamukkale to the psychedelic rock-scapes of Cappadocia.
• Step into a fairy tale during your Feature Stay at a unique cave hotel in Cappadocia, where you’ll enjoy elegantly decorated rooms carved from stone. Then, if you like, take a hot air balloon over the otherworldly landscape at sunrise.
• Get to know the real Turkey on Exclusive Experiences, including a cooking class with an expert chef, a visit to an empowering carpet weaving cooperative and a traditional dinner at a local's home in Cappadocia.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, CYDD (Çağdaş Yaşamı Destekleme Derneği). Donations help them provide scholarships and educational programs for economically disadvantaged youth in Turkey.
• This trip has a couple of long drives, particularly on Day 6. These journeys are in a private vehicle, so they're a great chance to sit back and enjoy the passing scenery and chat with your fellow travellers.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2023 - 31 December 2024

Hoş geldin! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure begins in Istanbul – the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have all once called home. If arriving today, you’ll have a complimentary transfer to your hotel from the airport. If you arrive early, maybe grab lunch at one of the city’s many eateries. Your adventure then begins with a welcome meeting at 1 pm. After, you’ll head out with your local leader and small group to explore the Old City of Istanbul. Your leader will introduce you to some of the city’s historic treasures, including the dazzling Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome and the Million – a stone road marker in use since the fourth century. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers over dinner at a stylish restaurant where local delicacies are paired with panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

There are no meals included on this day.

• Istanbul - City Tour
• Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit
• Istanbul - Welcome Dinner
• Complimentary Arrival Transfer
• Istanbul - Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) - TRY1700
• Istanbul - Hagia Sophia - EUR25

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Your complimentary airport transfer is valid from both Istanbul New Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gocken Airport (SAW).

Rise and shine for an early breakfast, then begin the drive to Canakkale – a port city located on the shores of the Dardanelles. Arrive in time to buy yourself some lunch, then head to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Thousands from across the world journey here each year to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the battles of 1915. Tour the former battlefields and find remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. Head up to the memorials of Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair while your leader explains the significance of the events across the landscape. Look down upon the rough hills and gullies that became the graveyard for thousands of young men on both sides. After a day that will no doubt be full of sombre reflection, the evening is free for you to do as you wish in Canakkale.

• DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale (1 night)
• Gallipoli - Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Drive to Selcuk and stop along the way in Troy, where history and mythology sit side by side. Your leader will take you around the ancient city walls – there will be time for a photo op with a replica Trojan horse. Learn how the site has confounded historians and archaeologists, then continue to Selcuk. Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, join your leader for an orientation walk around this sprawling town at the base of the ancient Ayasoluk Hill fortress. You’ll visit the last remaining column of the Temple of Artemis, the ancient aqueducts and the 14th-century Isabey Mosque.

• Troy - Archaeological site visit
• Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk

Today, visit one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world – Ephesus. Learn from your leader what life here was like as you tour the ancient theatre, stroll the marble streets once walked by Cleopatra and Mark Antony and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and restored Library of Celsus. Later, drive past apple and peach orchards to the quaint village of Sirince, where charming, red-roofed houses clamber up the hillside. Drop by a local wine house where you’ll taste locally produced fruit wines. Try a sip of kiwi, pear, peach, quince or all the above. Next, you’ll meet a local chef for a Turkish cooking class, using olive oil grown and made on-site and herbs and vegetables picked fresh from the garden. Learn how to make a range of small Turkish meze dishes using seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labour with an evening dinner of the mouth-watering meze plates you’ve made together.

• Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
• Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
• Selcuk - Cooking class
• Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum - EUR10
• Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - EUR15

After breakfast this morning, travel to the town of Pamukkale. Named after its incredible travertine terraces, Pamukkale means ‘cotton castle.’ This spectacular natural phenomenon was created by deposits from thermal waters that cascaded down the mountainside over hundreds of years, forming a collection of pools and terraces. As the water overflows, dazzling cream-coloured stalactites are formed that, from afar, resemble cotton or snow. The pools are filled with waters that many believe have healing properties for circulation and the digestive system. Head up to the ruins of Hierapolis – an important Roman bath centre founded by the King of Pergamon in 190 BC, where your leader will bring history to life and guide you through an ancient temple, holy area, monumental fountain, bath, basilica, necropolis and an impressive theatre. You then have the evening free to spend how you wish.

• Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Make the journey to the coastal town of Kas (meaning ‘eyebrow’) and begin exploring on a walking tour. Now primarily a holiday town, Kas is strewn with the remains of Lycian tombs, iconic, whitewashed walls covered with climbing bougainvillea and an ancient theatre where you can watch a spectacular sunset. The walk is sure to inspire your appetite, and your leader will be on hand to show you where to grab a great gozleme (stuffed Turkish flatbread). The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy this easy-going town – maybe sit back with a pomegranate cocktail or check out the local markets.

• Kas - Leader-led orientation walk

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Set off for a boat cruise around the islands today, with a local family who use their unique knowledge and love of the local waters to share a distinctly traditional way of cruising and eating with travellers. Cruise to their home village of Ucagiz, then to the village of Simena, where its friendly inhabitants sell ice cream in front of bougainvillea-covered houses. On board, you’ll enjoy a range of freshly prepared local greens, zucchini fritters and maybe even some Turkish raki. Sail from large bays to protected inlets where you can cool off with a swim in turquoise waters. Kick back with a cold beer or learn how to play backgammon – Turkey’s most beloved game. Look out for the ruins of an ancient city submerged under the clear water. Return to Kas for an evening at your leisure.

• Kas - Sailing trip with seafood lunch

Travel from Kas on a scenic route, stopping first at the ancient city of Phaselis. There you’ll have the chance to stretch your legs exploring the Roman ruins, or freshen up with a swim in the ocean. Then, continue to Anatalya. Your accommodation is tucked away near the beach, but you may want to get out to explore Kaleici (the Old City) once you settle in. Head out on an early evening walk to see Hadrian's Gate, the Old Roman Harbour and all the photo-worthy views. Soak up the city’s Mediterranean atmosphere and attitude over a fresh seafood dinner – your leader can recommend some superb spots.

• Antalya - Leader-led orientation walk
• Antalya - Phaselis Ancient City

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Wake up in beautiful Antalya and start your day with a guided visit through the Antalya Museum. The province of Antalya includes dozens of important ancient Hellenistic and Roman cities, and some of the best artefacts are on display in the museum’s 13 exhibition halls and open-air gallery. The afternoon is then free for you to explore as you wish. If you’d like, your leader can help you to arrange your own trip to the ancient city of Perge. Or maybe wander the narrow cobblestoned streets of Kaleici with an ice cream in hand, beat the heat with a dip in the sea or chill out poolside.

• Antalya - Antalya Museum

Say goodbye to Antalya and take a morning drive to Konya – an ancient city important in the Roman era and where the Sufi practice of 'whirling' was born. When you arrive, discover the mystic resting place of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, the 13th-century mystic, poet and theologian whose teachings continue to inspire and influence Muslims worldwide. Visit the small museum dedicated to his life and work. The rest of the day is free to get to know the city. Konya offers a wealth of museums, mosques and monuments worth visiting, so be sure to ask your leader for recommendations. For a leisurely afternoon, head to Alaeddin Hill, where locals sip coffee, eat pastries and let the hours slip by in peace.

• Konya - Mevlana Museum

Depart Konya and travel to Cappadocia, where your leader will take you on an orientation walk to get to know your new surroundings. Check in to your Feature Stay accommodation, where you’ll feel miles away from the modern world in a cave hotel that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. These unique rooms are carved into stone, featuring elegant décor and modern conveniences. Keep an eye out for hot air balloons passing overhead and head out for a drink to watch the sunset over one of the world’s more iconic places. The rest of the evening is free for you to take it all in, or you could opt for a performance of whirling by local Dervishes in a restored han (caravansary).

• Cappadocia - Leader-led orientation walk
• Cappadocia - Sunset drinks
• Goreme - Whirling dervish performance - EUR30

Early birds have the option of taking a hot air balloon over the ethereal Cappadocian landscape. The scene at sunrise is sure to take your breath away. After a relaxing breakfast overlooking the valley, step back in time with a visit to the Goreme Open Air Museum. See the incredible houses, churches and monasteries carved out of the soft cliff face as your leader shares stories of the civilisations who lived here. Next, you’ll visit a carpet weaving cooperative that empowers women by giving them the tools to produce one-of-a-kind traditional rugs. Hear local insight into the history of traditional carpet weaving and see how the intricate pieces are made. Later in the afternoon, go on a short walk through the cheekily named Love Valley, which is famous for its phallic rock formations. Then, head back to your hotel and perhaps take an optional Turkish bath to unwind at the end of the day.

• Cappadocia - Valley walk
• Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum
• Cappadocia - Carpet weaving co-op
• Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight - EUR260
• Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight - EUR310

Hot air balloon in Cappadocia can only be booked directly with your trip leader locally. Please speak to your Turkish group leader on early on your trip to secure a spot for this popular activity. Due to local regulations, sunrise hot air balloon excursion times do vary which may result in your excursion beginning just after sunrise. This is subject to the tour provider’s discretion and is not within our control. The price of the hot air balloon activity is indicative only as the prices may fluctuate between different seasons. Your tour leader will advise you the correct rate at the time of booking.

Take a morning walk to see the fascinating rock formations of the Kizilcukur Valley. After lunch, head toward the red river of Avanos and descend to Ozkonak, where you’ll explore an underground city hollowed out of tufa rock that dates back to 400 BC. Return to the surface and visit the studio of a local ceramic master whose family have been in the pottery business for six generations. Speak with a local artist who will explain the history and techniques of traditional Turkish ceramics. Discover the rich clay from the red river and watch how it is moulded into exquisite pieces. This evening you’ll be warmly welcomed into the home of a local family who will prepare a special homecooked dinner for your group. Sit down to a feast made with passion, enjoy a friendly chat with your affable host and top off the night with some Turkish delight.

• Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
• Cappadocia - Ozkonak Underground City
• Cappadocia - Kizilcukur Valley
• Cappadocia - Home-cooked dinner

This morning, say goodbye to Cappadocia and return to where it all began – Istanbul. When you arrive, you may wish to join your leader for a trip across the Bosphorus to the Asian side of the city. Here you’ll find lively, close-knit communities and jumbles of cute cafes, markets and restaurants. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore more of the many charms of this enthralling city. This evening, consider rounding off your adventure by joining your group for an optional farewell dinner at one of Istanbul’s excellent waterfront restaurants.

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you wish to spend some more time in Istanbul, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Private vehicle, Boat, Plane

Comfortable hotel (11 nights), Feature Stay (3 nights)

• Arrival airport transfer
• Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
• Luggage transfer
• Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
• 24/7 on-ground support

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.  3. This trip starts at 1pm on Day 1 in Istanbul. This allows time after the welcome meeting to explore the city with your leader.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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