Travel is one of those things that naturally gives rise to queries, concerns and doubts, so we’re here to put your mind at ease. Which trip is right for me? What do I do about visas? How does Adventure Holidayzz manage COVID-19? How much do I tip? Should I have banh mi or pho for lunch? For questions frequent and otherwise, this is the spot.
Trip styles
Our four styles of travel – Basix, Original, Comfort and Premium – cover a whole gamut of travel experiences. To find out which one has ‘You’ written all over it, visit our trip styles page.
Want to lie in a hammock and not move until cocktail hour? We’ve got a trip for that. Want to power up the side of a mountain at high altitude? We’ve also got a trip for that. To determine what type of trip suits you best, each of our trips comes with a Physical Rating to let you know how physically demanding it is… or isn’t.
Travelling with children
Adventure Holidayzz offers a wide range of Family Adventures around the globe. The minimum age (for Family trips) varies depending on the destination, and Adventure Holidayzz has set minimum ages to ensure that the included activities suit each age range. Additionally, you’ll notice that some of the more adventurous destinations have a higher minimum age. Please check out our Family Adventures for more information.
Travelling in a group
Adventure Holidayzz adventures are for travellers with a yearning to get off the beaten track. Whether you're travelling solo, with a group of friends, or are aged 18 or 70, there is an Adventure Holidayzz adventure to suit your interests and comfort level. Each Adventure Holidayzz adventure has a physical and cultural grading to help you decide if the trip is right for you. No special skills are required for most adventures, just a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the world. Even on our camping adventures no previous experience is required; our tents are easy to set up, even for first-time campers.
Good things come in small packages, which is why we keep our group sizes down. This means we’re small enough to remain flexible as we thread our way through communities without intimidating the locals. On most of our trips you’ll be part of an intimate group of 12-16 people, though our group sizes are on average 10 people. Our Overland trips are in purpose-built vehicles that can carry up to 24 travellers. Group sizes are displayed on each trip’s overview page on our website.
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 can join us on our Family trips 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 trips don’t have a maximum age limit, but a Self-Assessment Form is required for all passengers 70 years and over.
While we can’t tell you who your leader is prior to departure, we can tell you they will be awesome. Our leaders are experts in their regions, some because they’ve been travelling there for years, others because they’re local to the region and can’t wait to show you around. On longer journeys, or ones that travel through more than one country, you may change leaders part way through – but this just means double the awesomeness.
Although you won’t be reimbursed for any portion of the trip unused, you can opt to sign off the trip if you need to leave a day or so earlier. If you let us know before travel that you’ll be arriving late or need to leave before the trip ends, we will notify our team on the ground to best accommodate your requirements.
Please make sure you are happy with your group trip itinerary before booking because we are unable to change them for individual travellers. However, if you and a group of friends, colleagues or even your school would like your own personally designed itinerary, get in contact with our very talented Tailor-Made team; they can tailor an itinerary just for you.
Can I add an extra night at the beginning or end of my group trip?
You sure can. Just ask your adventure consultant at the time of booking.
Travelling solo
This is the beauty of the Adventure Holidayzz style of travel: many of our travellers join because they are travelling solo and want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. Learn more about solo travel.
On our trips rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. If you'd like your own space, you also have the choice to pay for an individual room (available on the majority of our trips).
As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.
On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open-gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances, it will clearly be stated in your Essential Trip Information prior to booking and travelling.
I have a disability – can I join an Adventure Holidayzz trip?
Adventure Holidayzz is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We ask that you carefully consider whether you are physically and mentally able to complete the itinerary you have chosen, recognising that on many trips you will be required to carry your own bags and use public transport.
Where we can we will make reasonable adjustments to the operation of our trips to facilitate the requirements of disabled travellers – such as booking ground floor accommodation, or having our leaders communicate important directions in writing as well as verbally. Many travellers with disabilities have been able to enjoy our trips by travelling with a friend or companion who can assist with specific needs. If joining a group trip is not practical we may be able to provide you with a private departure. Please contact our sales team for further information on any of our itineraries.
Learn more about accessible travel with Adventure Holidayzz
Are Adventure Holidayzz trips suitable for LGBTQIA+ travellers?
Everyone should feel comfortable when they travel with Adventure Holidayzz and we know that many of our travellers are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s important for our travellers to be aware of the local laws and customs in the destinations we visit as some countries have laws that discriminate against LGBTQIA+ people. We recommend you visit Equaldex and/or Smartraveller before you choose your trip for up-to-date advice and information about LGBTQIA-related laws.
We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per your passport or the information we have in our booking system, so if you identify differently from the gender marker on your passport, please let us know in advance. We also have a Single Supplement available on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room.
We don’t tolerate any form of discrimination, violence (verbal or physical), or sexual harassment, either between travellers or involving our leaders, partners or local people. If you feel that someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your tour leader or local guide immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact section of your Essential Trip Information.
Rooming
On our trips rooms are assigned on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. If you'd like your own space, you also have the choice to pay for an individual room (available on the majority of our trips).
As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.
On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open-gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances, it will clearly be stated in your trip’s Essential Trip Information prior to booking and travelling.
Most trips have an individual room available – check a trip’s overview page on our website or the Essential Trip Information to see whether an individual room is offered. If so, please request this at the time of booking.
You may be able to request a triple room depending on the trip style you choose. You can request a triple room at the time of booking, though as our bookings are made well in advance, room requests can’t be guaranteed.
If you happen to be the only solo person of your gender on the trip, you may be given your own room. We can’t guarantee this will be the case as we may have travellers book onto a trip last minute.
If you’re travelling with a partner, just let us know you want to share a room (and a bed) at the time of booking. We can’t guarantee a double bed, but we’ll do our best to accommodate you. In some destinations, the option may be two single beds pushed together to form a ‘double’.
As most of our trips are organised on a twin-share basis, if you’ve booked with a friend you’ll automatically be bunked into a room together – unless you pay for individual rooms. Most twin rooms are set up with two single beds, but please let us know you want separate beds at the time of booking so we can pass this information on to the accommodation provider.
Food, drink and dietary requirements
We will try our very hardest to accommodate all dietary requirements but in some out-of-the-way places it can be very difficult to guarantee. We will let you know if there are places on your itinerary where this is the case. Please let us know at the time of booking of any food requirements or allergies and we’ll pass the information onto your leader. It is also a great idea to bring a card with your dietary requirements written in the local language for those times you are eating away from the group.
Food is one of the most exciting parts of travel. There may be some familiar fare but often you’ll be confronted with the new, interesting and downright weird of the culinary world but we like to think of it as an adventure for all the senses. In addition to this, our flexible itineraries often allow you to eat with the group or branch out on your own - this means you can eat to suit any budget or desire.
In some destinations it may not be wise to drink the local water. For more details, you can find country-specific information in our destination pages, which can be found in the red menu bar at the top of our home page.
Are flights and airport transfers included in the tour price?
Flights to the tour destination are not included in the trip price. However, on-tour flights and all other modes of on-tour transport are included. If you'd like help booking international flights*, please get in touch via phone or live chat to request a quote.
*Excluding customers in North America.
Generally, airport transfers are not included in the tour price unless you’re travelling on a selected tour, such as a Premium or Comfort style trip, where an arrival transfer is included. Please refer to your Essential Trip Information to see all tour inclusions.
You can add arrival/departure transfers to most of our trips at the time of booking (if booking via phone or live chat), or by contacting us to update an existing booking.
For more information on your arrival, check out the Joining Point instructions in your Essential Trip Information. Here, we often indicate the price you can expect to pay for a taxi from the airport to the hotel. The cost of the transfer will inevitably be more expensive than a taxi, but it’s important to remember that you are paying for a private service and a trusted driver who will offer the security travellers often desire when they arrive in a foreign country.
Does Adventure Holidayzz have a waitlist for fully booked trips?
We don’t have a waitlist – so it’s a case of first in, best dressed! People sometimes cancel at the last minute, so if you have your eye on a particular trip that is sold out, we recommend checking our website again to see if space has become available.
What is an on request trip?
If you book a trip that is on request, it means we can't confirm your booking immediately as we need to check if space is available with our local operators.
The reason we need full payment for on request trips is because our local operations team confirm various services such as on-tour transport and accommodation as they go. If space is available, you’ll be good to go. If not, we’ll provide you with a full refund.
If you have booked an on request trip, we’ll email you with an update in 2 to 4 business days. Please don’t book any non-refundable travel arrangements in the meantime.
Why has the price of a trip I wanted to book changed?
Oh no! Sorry to hear you missed out. Our promotions run for a limited time only, so you need to get in there quickly to snag a good deal. Make sure you’re signed up to our email list so that you’re in the know for future sales.
Can I place a trip on hold and finalise it when there’s a sale on?
If you’ve placed a trip on hold, you'll need to pay the minimum deposit within five days to secure your place – but if a sale happens to start within that five-day period, then you're in luck! If you don’t make a deposit within five days, your booking will be cancelled.
Booking an individual room
Most of our trips have the option to pay a fee to ensure you have your own room. You can request an individual room when booking a trip via phone or live chat, or get in touch to update an existing booking.
Individual rooms typically have a double or single bed, but the standard of accommodation will vary depending on the trip style you've chosen, i.e. whether it's Basix, Original, Comfort or Premium. Learn more about our trip styles.
Booking trip extras
Our adventure consultants can help you book transfers and extra accommodation. They may also be able to assist with insurance and flights.* Get in touch via phone or live chat after you’ve booked your trip to request a quote. It’s better to get extras locked in as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
*These services are available in some regions. Please visit our Services page for more information.
You can book additional day tours yourself on the Urban Adventures website. For the optional activities listed in your itinerary, you can usually book onto these when you’re on your trip so there’s no need to pre-book – unless it states in your Essential Trip Information that certain activities need to be pre-booked.
Booking confirmation
We know you’re probably itching to see that confirmation email land in your inbox, but hold tight! It can take us a couple of days to process your booking. We’ll send you an update in 2 to 4 business days.
If you booked an on request trip and space is unavailable, we’ll let you know via email and provide you with a full refund.
It can take a few days for our team to confirm airport transfers, pre/post-trip accommodation and other extras with our local suppliers on the ground. Please give us 2 to 4 business days to email you an update.
All trip details are available in your Essential Trip Information. If there are last-minute changes such as a new joining or finishing point, we’ll email you an update before the trip begins. We recommend that you book pre/post-trip accommodation through Adventure Holidayzz, as we'll normally re-book you into a new hotel if the joining/finishing point changes to save you the hassle.
Managing My Booking
You can add your Qantas Frequent Flyer number* when booking your trip online. If you want to add your Frequent Flyer details to an existing booking, please contact us via live chat or phone.
*The Qantas Frequent Flyer Program is only available for customers in Australia.
You can do this by logging into My Booking using your email address and booking number. Once logged in, go to the 'passenger details' section to update your details including emergency contact information, passport details, insurance number, and dietary and medical requirements.
Oh no! If your details didn’t save or you received an error message, please re-login and try to add your details again.
If you’re having trouble logging into My Booking, please close and re-open your browser and try again. If you’re still having issues, reach out to our adventure consultants who'll be happy to help.
If you booked through a travel agent, please share your details with them as they will pass the information on to us. If you booked through Tour Radar, please contact them directly.
Your travel agent is there to help with all parts of your booking. To update your traveller details, simply share them with your agent and they will pass the information on to us. If you booked through Tour Radar, please contact them directly.
Trip changes and booking amendments
Our trips are guaranteed to depart once they have one fully paid customer, unless the minimum group size listed in the Essential Trip Information and/or Special Conditions state otherwise.
We never want to cancel a trip, but sometimes unforeseen things happen that are out of both your control and ours. We closely monitor all our destinations, and if your trip is changed or cancelled due to a Force Majeure Event or for operational reasons, we'll aim to notify you at least one month before your scheduled departure date. If you booked with a travel agent, they will notify you of any changes. Visit our Trip Cancellations page for more information.
You should've received an email from us explaining the changes to your itinerary, and any options that may be available. If you have further questions after reading the letter, please reach out via phone or live chat.
for future travel.*
If you want to change your trip dates less than 56 days before departure, you'll incur a cancellation fee as per our Booking Conditions. We strongly advise taking out cancellation insurance at the time of booking, which may cover cancellation fees.
*A number of trips including Polar, Adventure Cruises and select Tailor-Made itineraries have different conditions. Please see our Special Conditions or your Essential Trip Information for more information.
It depends on how close you are to departure. In some circumstances we may be able to transfer the spot to another traveller for a fee if it's outside the pay-in-full period.
When you pay your deposit, we'll sometimes use those funds to secure certain non-refundable permits or activities on your trip. If you're outside the pay-in-full period but you have paid for your trip, then a partial refund minus the cost of the deposit may be possible. If you are inside the pay in full period, then further fees may apply as per our Booking Conditions. Please get in touch to discuss your options.
Trip cancellations and refunds
Please get in touch via live chat to cancel. We can only process cancellations when we have received written confirmation from you. You may also be charged a cancellation fee depending on the departure date – please see our Booking Conditions for more information. Or find out more information about cancellations, credits and refunds on our Trip Cancellations page.
Trip extras (e.g. airport transfers and extra accommodation) are non-refundable, but you can cancel up to 56 days before departure and save the amount as a credit for future travel with us. To cancel your extras please get in touch via phone or live chat.
Unfortunately, we can’t refund the difference of a trip that is now on sale. When you book a trip, you agree to our Booking Conditions, including the total price of the trip at the time of booking. To book the trip at the sale price, you would need to forfeit the non-refundable credit and re-pay your deposit to secure the discounted price, which may or may not work out in your favour.
We don’t offer full refunds for cancellation by you. However, you can cancel your booking up to 56 days before departure and either transfer your deposit to another trip, or hold onto it as credit for future travel. For most of our trips, credits don’t have an expiry date. We can also provide you with a letter for a travel insurance claim if your policy covers trip cancellation.
If you want to make changes to your booking less than 56 days before departure you may incur a cancellation fee as per our Booking Conditions.* We strongly advise taking out cancellation insurance at the time of booking, which may cover cancellation fees.
*A number of trips including Polar, Adventure Cruises and select Tailor-Made itineraries have different conditions. Please see our Special Conditions or your Essential Trip Information for more information.
We’re sorry to hear that. Please get in touch with our friendly adventure consultants to review your circumstances and discuss your options.
If you contract COVID-19 before you leave, or if government-imposed travel restrictions related to COVID-19 mess up your plans, you can cancel your trip right up until departure day. Just let us know (with a medical certificate, if applicable) and we’ll give you a 100% credit of what you’ve already paid. This credit has no expiry unless you are travelling on an Antarctica voyage.
We try to process refunds as quickly as possible, but it may take 14 to 21 days depending on your bank and external systems that are out of our control. If the funds aren’t back in your account within 21 days, please contact your bank.
Is there a surcharge when paying by credit card?
No surcharges apply when paying for your trip with a credit card, but there may be restrictions on which card you can use depending on your location.
Why do you take full payment?
The reason we request full payment for some trips is because we need to confirm each part of your adventure with our local operators and suppliers as we go (e.g. on-tour transport, activities and accommodation). If your place on the trip is unavailable, we’ll provide you with a full refund.
Deposits
The reason we need a deposit is because our operations team start booking your services with our local suppliers straight away. Many of these services (e.g. on-tour activities like hiking permits) are non-refundable and can’t be transferred or used by another traveller. Even if services can be cancelled, they might incur a cancellation or admin fee which is covered by your deposit.
If you’d like to keep your finances organised and pay your share of the deposit only, please contact our friendly adventure consultants via phone or live chat so they can send you a secure payment link for the deposit amount you wish to pay.
I made a payment for the wrong amount, what are my options?
Don’t worry. If you paid too much by mistake, please contact us via phone or live chat to organise a refund.
When is the final due date for my trip?
Full payment is required 56 days before departure to avoid trip cancellation.* You can view your payment due date by logging into My Booking with your booking number and email address. We’ll also email you at least a week before the due date to give you a heads-up.
*A number of trips including Polar, Adventure Cruises, gorilla permit trips and select Tailor-Made itineraries have different conditions. Please see our Special Conditions for more information.
I tried to pay for my trip but it was unsuccessful, what might the problem be?
Oh no! We really want to help you book your next adventure. Online payments through our booking engine might be unsuccessful due to internet connection issues, incorrect payment details or insufficient funds. If your payment is still not going through after you've reviewed all the above, please reach out via phone or live chat.
Can I pay for my invoice in a different currency?
Unfortunately this isn’t possible. All invoices must be paid in the same currency in which the trip was originally booked.
Credits
Absolutely. You can use your credit as a deposit toward the outstanding balance of a trip or keep hold of it for a future adventure – credits don’t expire for most of our trips. You can also use your credit to book pre/post-trip accommodation, airport transfers, Urban Adventures or Tailor-Made experiences.* Any remaining credit can be used toward another trip, an additional traveller on your booking or for future travel.
Learn more about how to redeem credit
*Please note that any credits you have with third parties may have expiry dates. Our Polar voyages, Tailor-Made trips and select Adventure Cruises also have different conditions, applicable under our Special Conditions.
You should have been sent an email with your credit details, but you can also find out your credit balance by getting in touch via phone or live chat.
In most cases where we've offered credit, it has no expiry date.* Use it today, tomorrow or in the far-away future. It's your credit to use whenever you're ready.
*Please note that our Polar voyages, Tailor-Made trips and select Adventure Cruises have different conditions, applicable under our Special Conditions. Any credits you have with third parties may have expiry dates.
Our system isn’t able to transfer funds from one currency to another, so you can only apply credit to another trip in the same currency. Currency fluctuations are constantly changing, so we wouldn’t be able to guarantee a fair and accurate exchange rate for you.
Discounts and vouchers
You sure can. You can use gift vouchers toward full-price and discounted trips.* Please reach out via phone or live chat to book with a voucher.
*Excluding gift vouchers issued by our Customer Care team which can only be redeemed against full-price trips.
We don't have a loyalty discount*, but we do have Adventure Holidayzz Insiders – an exclusive community of travellers that, if you’ve already travelled with us, you’re already part of. Every now and then, you’ll receive email updates packed with competitions, partner offers, Insiders-only previews of sales and, best of all, you’ll be one of the first to hear about new trips.
*Legends Reward
Since 1 July 2019, we no longer issue new Legends vouchers to customers who have travelled on nine, 19 or 29 trips with us. If you're one of our Legends and haven't used your voucher yet, we have added one final extension to the expiry date for vouchers due to expire from 31 December 2020 to 31 December 2023. Please note, you'll need to book and travel on your next Adventure Holidayzz trip by this date to use your voucher and there will be no further extensions.
If you qualified for a Legends Discount prior to October 2015, you’re still an Ultimate Legend and will keep your 10% discount for life. Please contact us for assistance to confirm your eligibility and add the promo to your booking.
Where do I find my Essential Trip Information?
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips if you’re travelling internationally. Minimum coverage may differ from trip to trip, so make sure you check the Travel Insurance section in your Essential Trip Information. You will not be permitted to join the group until your leader has sighted your insurance policy number and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number – it’s really important there are no barriers to getting emergency assistance for you.
If you’re travelling within your home country or region, please confirm before departure that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. Please get in touch via live chat or phone so we can update your file.
Minimum coverage may differ depending on the trip, so make sure you check the Travel Insurance section in your Essential Trip Information. At a minimum, your policy needs to cover medical expenses including emergency repatriation (excluding Polar*). We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects.
*Because our Polar voyages are quite remote, it’s essential that you have comprehensive personal travel insurance. We encourage you to take the highest level of coverage possible to cover all eventualities. Refer to your Essential Trip Information to find out the level of insurance required.
We accept any travel insurance provider as long as we have a policy number, the company’s 24-hour emergency contact number and confirmation that you have the minimum coverage specified in your Essential Trip Information. If you’re booking your trip from the Asia-Pacific region*, our adventure consultants can help you find travel insurance – get in touch after you’ve booked to request a quote.
*If you're booking from another region, visit our Services page for information about our partner travel insurance programs.
Yes, but if you go this route, you’ll need to provide the details of the participating insurer/underwriter, your coverage level, policy number and 24-hour emergency contact number to your group leader – this is not the same as your bank name and credit card details.
Entry and health requirements
Find out more about the latest information on travel documents and visa requirements, plus local government COVID-19 vaccination and quarantine policies here. Destination-specific general vaccination requirements can be found under the Medical and Health Information of each trip’s Essential Trip Information.
Visa information
While we do include information in our Essential Trip Information about visa requirements and provide additional information about entry, visa and health requirements on our website, we always recommend that passengers check with their local embassy as visa rules can change without warning. Embassy websites in your home country will always have information about requirements and visa costs and will provide the required forms. If you are uncomfortable with the visa process, you can visit a travel agent who can arrange these for you at a cost.
Please contact the relevant local embassy, or visit a travel agent, to organise your visa/s.
Adventure Holidayzz can assist with visa/s in some instances. Please contact us to find out more.
There are certain destinations, such as Central Asia and Iran, where you will need support documentation from Adventure Holidayzz in order to apply for your visa. The Visa section of your Essential Trip Information will include information about what you need to send to us (e.g., scanned passports, employment letters, etc.).
Safety and medical information
The safety of our travellers, leaders and operators is a major priority for Adventure Holidayzz. With this in mind, we monitor world events very closely and Adventure Holidayzz makes operational decisions based on informed advice from a number of sources, in particular the level of the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT) travel advisory. If this advisory is at Level 4 'Do Not Travel' then Adventure Holidayzz will either cancel the Adventure Holidayzz Travel operated trip or reroute the itinerary to avoid the areas concerned.
While we take all the precautions we can to make sure your belongings are safe, we are travelling to some exciting destinations that are sometimes home to some pretty skilled thieves. Travel insurance is a must and a lockable bag or money belt will always help too.
We recommend having access to money from a variety of sources – cash, cards and travel money cards are all commonly used. Check your Essential Trip Information and the relevant destination page on our website for more country-specific information.
Availability of refrigeration cannot be guaranteed. As a general rule, many of our city hotels provide access to small fridges; however, outside of this, especially when trekking or in homestay environments, you cannot rely on access to refrigeration. Please be sure to advise Adventure Holidayzz if you are travelling with medication that requires refrigeration.
Medical and general vaccination requirements differ between nations, and as we are not medical practitioners, unfortunately we cannot advise on this issue. Please see your local GP or travel doctor for details and advice about current vaccination requirements. Information about COVID-19 vaccination requirements is available here.
Our leaders are trained to deal with these situations and we'll endeavour to get you help as quickly as possible. If you must leave the trip early due to illness, our local offices will help you find appropriate medical care and ensure someone at home is aware of the situation. We will do whatever we can to get you home or on your onward journey. Your travel insurance, which is compulsory on all our trips, should cover any costs incurred if illness occurs.
Currency information
Your Essential Trip Information includes a section on Money Matters. Please refer to this for an idea of budgets. Travellers’ cheques are not common practice anymore so it is a good idea to travel with a credit card and ATM card, or a bank-issued ‘cash card’ specifically for travel. Having a couple of options will assure that you are covered if one doesn’t work. In certain countries it comes down to potluck if you can withdraw money. One day it’ll work, the next it won’t, but it will work for your friend… Go figure! Visa cards are more widely accepted than Mastercard, particularly in Cuba where only Visa cards are accepted.
What should I bring?
On most Adventure Holidayzz trips you will be required to carry your own luggage, sometimes upstairs and on and off transport. We therefore recommend you travel with a backpack. For a full list of what to take on your adventure see our Ultimate Packing List.
Most starting point hotels can store your excess luggage for you; however, this is at your own risk. Often a nominal fee is charged for this service. Of course, this is only an advantage if your trip is circular (i.e. returning to the same starting point).
We only have a handful of itineraries where sleeping bags are required and these are generally trips that involve camping. When we use homestays, blankets are provided but some travellers feel more comfortable with their own sleeping bag or sleep sheet. This decision is a personal preference. Refer to your Essential Trip Information if you are unsure whether a sleeping bag is required.
On a more physical trip, hiking boots are definitely recommended. If the physical rating is under 3, hiking boots or sneakers/runners will be adequate. Many Adventure Holidayzz treks will be hiking in near-freezing environments so please be sure to research the climate and weather conditions at the time of year you will be trekking and pack accordingly. There is also a packing 'checklist' in your Essential Trip Information.
It’s important that you always travel with your current passport, visas, travel insurance and Adventure Holidayzz documentation. For more information see our Ultimate Packing List.
Arrival information
Check-in times can vary from hotel to hotel and region to region. Generally, they are between midday and 2pm. If you do arrive earlier, you’ll be able to store your luggage with the hotel and head out to explore for a couple of hours.
We can’t confirm an early check-in, but our sales team can assist in booking you a night of pre-accommodation at the same hotel. If you don’t wish to pay for the extra night, you can try your luck locally (they may let you in early if the room is free) or you can store your luggage.
This information can be found in the Joining Point instructions section of your Essential Trip Information.
Activities
Absolutely. If there are included or optional activities that you don’t wish to participate in, you can do your own thing instead. The exception to this is when we are trekking or travelling from one destination to the next. Please note that if you choose to opt out of an included activity, no reimbursement can be made by Adventure Holidayzz.
Adventure Holidayzz 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 trip (this can be found on our website at the top of the trip’s overview page).
The beauty of travelling with Adventure Holidayzz is that we encourage travellers to explore at their own pace. When you get to a destination, your leader will offer options on what you can do. Some of the group will do one activity, others will opt for something completely different while others may just choose to lie in a hammock and read a book. Your Essential Trip Information has more details on what your trip’s itinerary and timeframes permit.
If you know in advance that you will be arriving late, please let our sales staff
know. We will
notify your leader, who will leave instructions with the hotel reception as to where
to meet your
group that night or the following morning.
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. If this happens, we will provide you with the most up-to-date
information as to
where your group will be and at approximately what time.
If you are late due to unforeseen circumstances or flight delays, please call the emergency contact number located in the Essential Trip Information. Adventure Holidayzz cannot reimburse you for any portion of the trip unused, but this can often be claimed on your travel insurance.
Amenities >
We have a wide range of camping sites around the globe. They range from having all the creature comforts to bush camping on the plains of the Serengeti with limited facilities (though their amazing vistas make up for this). Most camps will have basic facilities at a minimum. Your Essential Trip Information will give you a clear indication of what to expect on your decided trip.
On our Africa and USA trips we provide the tent and sleeping mats, 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. More information can be found in your Essential Trip Information.
Some trips have regular access to western toilets while others don't – it just depends on the areas you’re travelling in. As a general rule, the more remote the place the less likely you are to find western bathroom facilities.
Along the way there are usually chances to do laundry, either through your hotel or using local services. Your leader will be able to let you know once you are on the trip.
Camping
We have a wide range of camping sites around the globe. They range from having all the creature comforts to bush camping on the plains of the Serengeti with limited facilities (though their amazing vistas make up for this). Most camps will have basic facilities at a minimum. Your Essential Trip Informationwill give you a clear indication of what to expect on your decided trip.
On our Africa and USA trips we provide the tent and sleeping mats, 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. More information can be found in your Essential Trip Information.
Accommodation
We are only able to provide information on your joining and finish point accommodation, the details of which are listed in your Essential Trip Information.
As Adventure Holidayzz likes to support numerous local businesses, we often have a few places in each city that we can alternate our groups between. For this reason, we can’t give you a full list before you travel. At the welcome meeting on Day 1, your leader may be able to provide you with this so you can email friends and family back home with the details.
The standard of accommodation depends on the Trip Style you have chosen. Learn more about trip styles.
We want our passengers to be as comfortable as possible so when you are headed to a hot climate, it is likely that you will either have a fan or air-con. Of course, if you are staying in remote areas or at homestays, you will need to expect the facilities to be a little more basic.
Keeping in touch with home
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. Phone cards are easy to get your hands on; just make sure your phone is unlocked before you travel. Or in many countries, the cheapest way to make a phone call is at an internet cafe.
If family and friends are unable to contact you in an emergency through email or phone, they can contact Adventure Holidayzz directly. Emergency contact details (for your destination) are listed in your Essential Trip Information, or they can contact one of our Global Sales offices, who can pass on a message if required.
We can never guarantee your phone will work as desired, as many of our destinations are out of the way and you may have limited coverage. Chat to 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. Alternatively, you can usually pick up a local sim card on the cheap (just make sure you phone is unlocked !).
Some places have Wi-Fi hot spots everywhere and other places will have no coverage at all. If you stumble into the latter, take the rare chance to just sit back and get to know your fellow travellers the old-fashioned way.
In most places you’ll be able to recharge your appliances at the hotel. We recommend you bring a travel adapter with you. On our Overland trips, most vehicles come with their own power supply and you should be able to recharge onboard. Be sure to bring an extra camera battery just in case.
Transport
If it moves there’s a good chance you’ll be riding on it. The type of transport used depends on your trip style. Find out more about trip styles or see your Essential Trip Information for the specific type of transportation used on your journey.
Tipping information
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 trip, if you're happy with the service you received, providing a tip for the leader - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Adventure Holidayzz destinations.
Our response to COVID-19
We recognise the immense privilege that it is to travel and will continue to act on our moral obligation and duty of care to the communities we visit.
We believe vaccinations play a key role in saving lives and helping to keep people safe. Around 70% of the world is vaccinated against COVID-19 but vaccination rates remain low in some of the destinations and communities we visit. We continue to support global vaccine equity and continue to strongly encourage all travellers and leaders to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
We also follow recommendations from the World Health Organization and the World Travel Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Safe Travel protocols.
All our itineraries undergo a comprehensive risk assessment and audit and our leaders and operators complete ongoing COVID-19 health and safety training and adhere to COVID-19 standards. In addition, the hotels, transport providers and other suppliers that we use must meet enhanced COVID-19 standards.
COVID-19 proof of vaccination policy
If your Adventure Holidayzz trip starts on or before 31 December 2022, you must
provide proof of
full
vaccination against COVID-19.
If you are unable to be vaccinated for medical reasons, you may apply for an
exemption.
Exemptions will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. To apply, you must provide a
medical
certificate from a medical professional.
Children under 18 are exempt. Children aged between 5 and 17 years old must provide
proof of
either vaccination, recovery or a negative COVID-19 test.
From 1 January 2023, Adventure Holidayzz will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19.
However, we continue to strongly recommend that all travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and other
Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.
This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination remains a requirement. Please refer to the Essential Trip Information of your chosen tour for more details.
What type of COVID-19 test do you accept?
We accept a number of different tests:
Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) such as the RT-PCR, RT-LAMP, TMA, NEAR or HAD tests. These are typically collected by nasopharyngeal swabs.
Rapid antigen test. These can be either:
Self-administered
Administered by a medical professional
Lateral Flow tests (if a verifiable test result can be produced).
You must be able to produce a verifiable test result (paper or digital). This may be in the form of a test result, a medical certificate or a travel certificate/ “fit to fly” certificate.
Where can I get a COVID-19 test?
This varies depending on where you are located and what types of COVID-19 tests are available. Contact your local medical professional, which could include a pharmacist, or government health authority for more information.
Information for UK customers:
Visit the UK government website to check whether you need a proof of a negative COVID-19 test to enter your destination. There are several testing requirements for entering the UK. What tests you need will depend on what country you’ve visited. Please see the FCDO website for more information.
We’ve teamed up with UK government approved testing providers to allow you to choose tests with a discount for Adventure Holidayzz customers:
Please ensure you read through the testing information thoroughly to ensure you select the relevant tests to suit your individual needs. This service is available for UK residents only.
What happens if someone on a trip shows symptoms of COVID-19?
If a customer feels unwell during their trip, our Adventure Holidayzz Leader will assist them to access medical care. This may include facilitating COVID-19 testing if requested by the customer and we also encourage customers to bring their own RAT tests from home as a precaution.
If someone on a trip tests positive to COVID-19, do other travellers on the trip need to have a COVID-19 test?
If someone on a trip tests positive for COVID-19, it is mandatory for leaders and crew to take a test. It is not mandatory for other travellers on a trip to be tested if there is a confirmed case of COVID-19.
However, your leader can help to arrange tests for anyone who requests one. You may like to bring your own rapid antigen tests from home to make this process easier.
Will my trip continue if someone on the trip tests positive for COVID-19?
If a customer tests positive for COVID-19, they will be assisted to leave the trip and access medical care (if required).
Depending on the destination, they may be required to isolate for a period of time. Whether the rest of the group can continue on the trip will be managed on a case by case basis.
Our goal is to keep the trip going wherever possible unless we are required to end the trip in line with local regulations.
If I’m required to take a test while on a trip, do I have to pay for it?
We encourage you to bring your own rapid tests from home, wherever possible. You should be prepared to purchase for tests, if required. There is a high likelihood you will be asked to take a rapid test before travelling into any remote or vulnerable communities. Costs for tests vary, depending on the destination.
Please ensure you have access to funds in case of this or other emergencies. A limited number of rapid tests will be available via trip leaders, but these cannot always be guaranteed.
Do I need to be vaccinated or take a COVID-19 test to enter a country, fly with an airline, cross a border or transit through an airport or access good and services in a country?
You are advised to check with the relevant airlines, airports and government authorities to check their entry, exit and transit requirements.
If you booked your flights through Adventure Holidayzz, we can help assist you with your airline’s requirements and where to locate this information.
How do you decide to resume travelling to a country?
Adventure Holidayzz follows government travel advisories from our key traveller markets when making decisions about where and when to operate our trips.
We also conduct comprehensive audits and safety reviews before returning to any destination.
In addition, our teams on the ground and our local partners constantly monitor the latest government health and safety guidance and regulations.
How do you decide which trips will operate?
To ensure a trip is safe for travellers and the local communities, we look at a number of factors including:
How do I know if my trip is going ahead?
Due to the evolving nature of travel restrictions, we generally wait until between one and two months before a trip is scheduled to depart to make a decision on whether the trip will run or not. This is in order to keep the possibility of travelling viable for any travellers who may be in a position to do so.
We notify travellers of their options at least one month before they are scheduled to depart, to allow them time to make any changes to their current arrangements. However, at times it may be necessary to cancel a trip at late notice should the factors listed above change.
What if my trip is cancelled?
You can find out more about what happens if your trip is cancelled here.
What are the entry and exit requirements for different countries?
Each destination has their own vaccination, testing and health screening requirements for entry, exit and transit. Detailed information about this is available here. It’s also important that you check these on your government's foreign travel advice website as these may include requiring evidence of recent COVID-19 test results. We recommend checking this information frequently and right up until your departure date, due to requirements potentially changing.
What regulations will I need to follow when travelling?
As responsible travellers, anyone who chooses to travel with us has a duty of care to themselves and the people around them. Travellers are required to comply with local regulations and laws, as well as our own health and safety guidelines.
In addition, each destination has its own vaccination, testing and health screening requirements for entry, exit and transit. Detailed information about this is available here.
Please remember that government advice and requirements can change quickly and often. We remind all our travellers that, as per our booking conditions, is it your responsibility to ensure you have the relevant information and required documents, and meet the entry requirements of all the destinations you visit on your trip. It’s important that you check these details on your government’s foreign travel advice website as these may include requiring evidence of recent COVID-19 test results or vaccination.
You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for travel against government advisories.
Are there any changes to group sizes in response to COVID-19?
The majority of our trips are based on small group adventures, with an average group size of 10 travellers, and as a result carry less inherent risk of COVID-19. Any trips that are designed for larger groups will be carefully risk assessed before operating.
On all trips we will follow local government guidance on permitted group sizes. This may mean reduced group sizes for the entire trip, for certain activities, or in certain environments such as restaurants or transport.
Will there be changes made to the itinerary and inclusions of my trip due to COVID-19?
Our operations teams are keeping up to date with local developments, including any closures or changes to visiting sights, attractions, restaurants and more. We may need to make some changes to the activities or destinations included on your trip to comply with advice from local authorities or our health and safety protocols.
We will endeavour to keep travellers updated before departure, including through our Essential Trip Information online. An open mind and sense of flexibility will help you get the most out of your trip.
Will I have to share a room with a stranger?
Our trips are based on twin share accommodation. Most of our trips have Single Supplements available for solo travellers who wish to have their own room. We are working with our accommodation providers to ensure that more rooms are available for those travellers who wish to room alone.
Will insurance cover me for COVID-19?
Travel insurance providers’ policies vary and many providers have some form of COVID-19 inclusions.
Will I have to wear a mask when travelling?
Masks must be worn by all travellers throughout the trip whenever required by local health authorities.
We recommend that all travellers, leaders and crew wear masks:
To help reduce the spread of COVID-19
As a normal part of interacting with other people
Masks are mandatory for travellers, leaders, crew and suppliers in any situation or destination when it is required by local government advice. In many countries, this includes (but is not limited to):
Public and private transport
Crowds or places where physical distancing is difficult
Indoors (particularly in places with poor ventilation)
We advise you to contact your airline as well as check the foreign travel advice for your destination before travelling regarding wearing masks. You will need to bring your own supply from home to cover the duration of your travels. While our leaders carry masks as part of their first aid kits, we are unable to provide masks for daily use for travellers.
Can I get a refund if I am unwell before my trip and unable to travel?
If you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. Please refer to our Flexible Bookings for the options available to you.
Are there additional measures on marine trips?
Due to the smaller spaces and types of activities, marine trips have some additional protocols, including:
All boats and yachts will have enhanced sanitation protocols in place in line with local regulations.
All travellers, leaders and crew must agree to any additional health screening measures on board (rapid antigen testing, temperature checking, etc.). These may vary on different boats in line with local regulations.
Our sailing trips are on board a sailing yacht, so living spaces, bathrooms and cabins are shared with other travellers and sleeping quarters can be quite compact. This makes it difficult to maintain physical distancing.
Single supplements are available for purchase on all trips if you prefer a cabin to yourself.
Travellers are encouraged to bring their own snorkelling gear, if possible.
All snorkelling gear available for traveller use/hire must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Travellers will be given one set of snorkelling equipment for use for the entire trip.
Adventure Holidayzz Insiders
Adventure Holidayzz Insiders is an exclusive community of travellers that, if you’ve already travelled with us, you’re already part of. Every now and then, you’ll receive email updates packed with competitions, partner offers, Insiders-only previews of sales and, best of all, you’ll be one of the first to hear about new trips.
Employment with Adventure Holidayzz
What services does Adventure Holidayzz offer?
Please see our Services page for details.
Adventure Holidayzz events
Please click here and choose the country you live in. On the right-hand red menu there is an events page that lists all the upcoming events in your region.
Where can I find your latest travel brochures?
We've put a pause on producing any new Adventure Holidayzz brochures while look closer at the environmental impacts and the best ways to help you find the information you need. In the meantime, you can find everything you could want to know here on our website. Or, for a trip back in time, view our brochures from 2019.
Financial security << /p>
Yes. Adventure Holidayzz started in 1989 and have been profitable almost every year since 1991.
When Adventure Holidayzz receives money from either you or from your travel agent, the funds are deposited into a Client Trust Account. The money stays in this account until the day of departure of your trip. Why? So that in the unlikely event of Adventure Holidayzz ever going broke, your money is still safe and you would get it back in full. Adventure Holidayzz's Client Trust Account is independently audited every year. Failure to meet financial criteria reflecting the financial viability of a travel agent results in revocation of the agent's licence to trade. Adventure Holidayzz are licensed under these arrangements.
It is an unfortunate fact that travel agents do go broke from time to time. If you are using a travel agent, it is your responsibility to ensure that the agent is financially sound. This is important as the agent may hold your money before sending it to us for your trip. Should that agency go broke before we have received your money, then it may be lost. Different countries have different levels of legislation, licences, bonds, trust accounts and/or insurance schemes to protect you. These vary greatly from country to country and some countries have no such protection at all. Please research this carefully to make sure the money you are paying is secure. Where there are no protection systems in your country, at least look at how long the business has been trading, ask others about their reputation and seek independent advice on reputable travel agencies.
The Adventure Holidayzz Foundation
The Adventure Holidayzz Foundation (TIF) is a not-for-profit fund that helps bring support to non-government organisations in the places that Adventure Holidayzz visits. Each year the fund distributes donations from Adventure Holidayzz and travellers to more than 50 fantastic organisations around the world.
Adventure Holidayzz Travel's founding Directors, Darrell Wade and Geoff Manchester started TIF in 2002 in response to many travellers asking how they could donate to communities or organisations they had visited with Adventure Holidayzz. They also really wanted to know that the money would get there and be used effectively, so Darrell and Geoff kicked off The Adventure Holidayzz Foundation with AU$200,000. Since then, more than AU$3,000,000 has been raised by travellers and Adventure Holidayzz Travel and distributed to over 75 organisations.
Organisations working in the areas of:
What's the advantage of a traveller donating to The Adventure Holidayzz Foundation?
The Adventure Holidayzz Foundation is registered as a charity and 100% of donations received are donated to the local beneficiary organisations in an annual grant. Adventure Holidayzz Travel contributes into the fund also and pays for all the administration costs. You can be assured that your donation will get to the organisation, be used for a significant need and make a real difference, such as pay a nurse's wage, build a much-needed classroom, pay for 50 students' school fees or help treat injured wildlife.
The best way is online (with a Visa or Mastercard credit card) on the Adventure Holidayzz Foundation's website. Your donation and credit card details are secure, and you will receive a receipt immediately.
If you are an Australian taxpayer, donations to The Adventure Holidayzz Perpetual Fund are tax deductible. Donations to the Adventure Holidayzz Community Project Fund are not tax deductible.
No. The Adventure Holidayzz Foundation offers a selection of organisations that they have come to know well, and have conducted 'due diligence' checks to ensure they are well run, trustworthy and do genuinely effective and important work with the money raised.
We currently have more than 40 beneficiary organisations in over 23 countries. Check them out on the Adventure Holidayzz Foundation's website.
Website problems
Oh no! We really want to get you where you need to go. Please tell us what’s broken through our Ask Adventure Holidayzz page and our resident experts will fix it as quickly as possible.