Southern India

15 Days Starting and ending in Kochi

Visiting: Kochi, Conoor, Ootacamund – Conoor, Mudumalai National Park – Bandipur, Mysore, Mysore – Overnight train, Mamallapuram, Puducherry , Madurai, Periyar , Kerala Backwaters

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HHSS

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $2000 $1649 Operator discount: -$300 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$51 -18%

NB: Prices correct on 10-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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Tour Overview

Explore lush and tropical Southern India on this 15-day adventure through lush lands and small villages. Beneath the green shade of a coastal paradise, you’ll meet with locals in their fishing villages and tribal homes. Join them in the bazaars, on buses and boats or even on a pilgrimage in Madurai. From cultural sights like the Maharaja's Palace in Mysore to French-influenced Puducherry and the vast landscape of Periyar, Southern India's spirituality, friendly people and wild animal sanctuaries make it fascinating to explore.

Highlights

  • Discover the waterfalls, tea plantations and spice markets of South India’s Western Ghats, a jungle-clad mountain range older than the Himalaya and one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.

  • Known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, Kochi is a fascinating blend of Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and English influences, and is best explored by ferry.

  • Step back in time among the iridescent hills of the very British ‘Snooty Ooty’ – home of snooker and the charming Nilgiri toy train.

  • Search for elusive wildlife, including elephants, sloths, and birds on safari around one of the best places in India to observe nature up close – Periyar National Park.

  • Experience a unique way of life with a family homestay and home-cooked meals in the idyllic backwaters of Kerala.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. Donations help them to nurture ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives that inspire coastal restoration, sustainable fishing practices and waste-managemen

  • Explore the waterfalls, tea plantations and spice markets of South India’s Western Ghats – a jungle-clad mountain range older than the Himalayas and one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.

  • Step back in time among the hills of the British ‘Snooty Ooty’ – home of snooker and the Nilgiri toy train.

  • Search for elusive wildlife, including elephants, sloths and birds on a safari around one of the best places in India to observe nature up close – Periyar National Park.

  • Soak in India’s changing landscapes on a trip that uses rail travel. By choosing trains to get around, you’ll be giving yourself the best opportunity for local interaction, at a more relaxed pace.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Kochi

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Hotel

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure starts today in Kochi with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, there are plenty of things to see and do. Once an important spice-trading centre, Kochi has been under Portuguese, Dutch and British rule at various times throughout history. Explore with one of our Urban Adventures or wander down to the shore and seek out the huge Chinese fishing nets dotted along the coast of Fort Cochin.

Day 2: Kochi

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, take on Kochi with a leader-led orientation walk and city tour. Take a local tuk-tuk to Mattancherry and drop by the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century before it was renovated and presented to the Rajas of Cochin by the Dutch. Maybe visit the Paradesi Synagogue – the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth and home to many rare antiques. Then, amble around the spice bazaars and antique stores of Fort Cochin. In the evening, experience a Kathakali performance – this Keralan dance is an ornately costumed display of storytelling, requiring complete control of the body.

Included Activities:
-Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
-Kochi - Dutch Palace
-Kochi - Kathakali performance

Optional Activities:
-Kochi - Jewish Synagogue

Day 3: Conoor

Location: Conoor

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Buckle up, because most of today is spent travelling. Catch a train to Coimbatore, then when you arrive, hop in your private vehicle to Conoor – known for its tea estates in the surrounding Nilgiri hills. Watch the lush scenery pass you by, get stuck into a good book or play road trip games with your fellow travellers. When you arrive in Conoor, you’ll sit down for a group dinner at your accommodation.

Day 4: Ootacamund – Conoor

Location: Ootacamund – Conoor

Accommodation: Hotel

Spend the morning in Conoor with an orientation walk and a visit to a tea plantation to learn about the history of tea production. Later, board Ooty’s renowned toy train for a ride along the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Be sure to get a window seat for great views over the lush countryside. Spend the rest of the day exploring Ooty’s Botanical Gardens, which are home to over 650 species of plants and trees. You can also opt to turn on the romance with a boat ride on the lake.

Included Activities:
-Ooty - Nilgiri Mountain Railway & Tea Plantation visit

Optional Activities:
-Ooty - Botanical Gardens
-Ooty - Boat ride

Day 5: Mudumalai National Park – Bandipur

Location: Mudumalai National Park – Bandipur

Accommodation: Jungle Lodge

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

Take a private vehicle for the short drive to Bandipur today. Set against the backdrop of the Nilgiri Hills, Mudumalai National Park was once the Mysore Maharaja's private hunting ground. In 1974 it was brought under Project Tiger and is now one of the best sanctuaries in India to observe wildlife in close proximity. Embark on a short safari in search of tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, sambars, spotted deer and much more. There's also an amazing variety of birdlife in the park. Tonight’s family-run accommodation in Bandipur is a mixed-gender dormitory style with a common bathroom. This dorm room is only open to your group.

Included Activities:
-Bandipur - National Park Safari

Day 6: Mysore

Location: Mysore

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Travel by private vehicle across the scenic Karnataka plains to Mysore – an easy-going town with a pleasant climate, perfect for wandering around on foot. When you arrive, you’ll head to local family’s home for a home-cooked lunch of traditional favourites. Get to know the family, who will show you the practise of making incense – one of the traditional arts from Mysuru. Learn about how it’s made and maybe even have a go yourself! Then, head out on an orientation walk around the town to get your bearings. No visit to Mysore is complete without a look around Mysore Palace – one of the most ornate palaces in India, its interior is full of colour, mosaics and mirrors.

Included Activities:
-Mysore - Home cooked lunch & family visit
-Mysore - Maharaja's Palace
-Mysore - Leader-led walking tour

Day 7: Mysore – Overnight Train

Location: Mysore – Overnight train

Accommodation: Overnight Sleeper Train

This morning, head out to climb Chamundi Hill to the Sri Chamundeswari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Durga. After, continue to the Keshava Temple in the small town of Somnathpur – an excellent example of Hoysala architecture. You’ll also have some time to visit to Tipu Sultan’s mausoleum in Sriranga Patna. You can also opt to return to Mysore for a palm reading catch a film at the local cinema. Tonight, board an overnight sleeper train to Chennai.

Included Activities:
-Mysore - Keshava Temple
-Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple

Optional Activities:
-Mysore - Cinema
-Mysore - Tipu Sultan's Mausoleum

Day 8: Mamallapuram

Location: Mamallapuram

Accommodation: Hotel

After arriving in Chennai, take a private vehicle along the scenic East Coast Road to Mamallapuram. Explore this ancient seaport town by tuk tuk, paying a visit to the seventh-century Shore Temple and the enormous bas-relief rock carving, known as Arjuna's Penance. There will also be time to inspect the town’s numerous mandapams (pillared temple pavilions), watch local stonemasons at work, or just to kick back and relax at a beachside restaurant.

Included Activities:
-Mamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tour

Day 9: Puducherry

Location: Puducherry

Accommodation: Hotel

Travel by private vehicle today through palm trees and rice paddies to Puducherry (Pondicherry). When you arrive, head out with your group and leader on a walking tour to see local temples, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the French Quarter. Once a French colony, you’ll see the evidence of French influence in Puducherry's architecture, its wide town squares and even in the police uniforms!

Included Activities:
-Puducherry - Leader-led French Quarter walking tour

Day 10: Madurai

Location: Madurai

Accommodation: Hotel

Drive to the temple city of Madurai today. Madurai’s Tamil roots stretch back 2500 years, making it one of the oldest cities in India. Wander the lamp-lit labyrinth of the Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and goddess Meenakshi. Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which displays a detailed account of India’s struggle for independence along with the bloodstained dhoti the famous leader wore when he was assassinated.

Included Activities:
-Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple

Optional Activities:
-Madurai - Gandhi Museum - Free

Day 11: Periyar

Location: Periyar

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

This morning, travel by private vehicle along a winding road to the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. High in the ranges of the Western Ghats, the park is set among stunning scenery and is the most popular wildlife sanctuary in Southern India. Both today and tomorrow, you’ll get to explore the national park on foot and will understand why Periyar is a popular wilderness sanctuary, with its lush surroundings. Enjoy a tour of a local spice plantation, then join your local family hosts to try some authentic home-cooked flavours of Southern India.

Included Activities:
-Periyar - Spice plantation visit
-Periyar - Home cooked meal

Day 12: Periyar

Location: Periyar

Accommodation: Hotel

Venture back into the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary today for a guided nature walk. Encounters with animals in the wild are never guaranteed, and this is more of a jungle walk than an animal spotting tour, but do look out for tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants or gaur – the world's largest species of buffalo. In the afternoon, unwind with an optional ayurvedic massage at your accommodation, or just relax in this scenic setting with a drink.

Included Activities:
-Periyar - National Park
-Periyar - Guided nature walk

Optional Activities:
-Periyar - Boat trip

Day 13: Kerala Backwaters

Location: Kerala Backwaters

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

Today, drive through the rubber, tea and coffee plantations on the way to the backwaters of Kerala. When you arrive, you’ll board a motorboat to cross to the island village where you’ll stay with a local family tonight. In the late afternoon, explore the island with a local English-speaking guide (and sometimes, your homestay host). This is a great chance to meet locals and learn more about their unique way of life. Take a leisurely punt boat ride around the waterways and enjoy the scenery. Tonight, share stories over a traditional home-cooked Keralan meal with your host family.

Included Activities:
-Kerala Backwaters - Pole boat ride
-Kerala Backwaters - Village walk

Day 14: Kochi

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Wake early this morning, before crossing the backwaters by private boat to Alleppey. From here, take a local bus back to Kochi. The rest of the day is free for you to choose your own adventure. Perhaps you’d like to stroll down Princess Street for a spot of shopping, or book yourself into a southern Indian cooking class – your group leader will have some other recommendations, so be sure to ask them. Tonight, why not gather with your group for a night out at a local restaurant and maybe try some pazham pori (fried banana or plantain fritter).

Day 15: Kochi

Location: Kochi

Meals Included: breaksfast

With no activities planned for today, you can leave the accommodation at any time. If you’d like to extend your stay, just reach out to your booking agent ahead of time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Homestay (1 night), Hotel (11 nights), Jungle lodge (1 nights), Overnight sleeper train (1 night)

  • Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour

  • Kochi - Dutch Palace

  • Kochi - Kathakali performance

  • Ooty - Nilgiri Mountain Railway & Tea Plantation visit

  • Bandipur - National Park Safari

  • Mysore - Home cooked lunch & family visit

  • Mysore - Maharaja's Palace

  • Mysore - Leader-led walking tour

  • Mysore - Keshava Temple

  • Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

Included Activities

  • Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
  • Kochi - Dutch Palace
  • Kochi - Kathakali performance
  • Ooty - Nilgiri Mountain Railway & Tea Plantation visit
  • Mysore - Home cooked lunch & family visit
  • Mysore - Maharaja's Palace
  • Mysore - Leader-led walking tour
  • Mysore - Keshava Temple
  • Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple
  • Mamallapuram - Cycling tour
  • Mamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tour
  • Puducherry - Leader-led walking tour
  • Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple
  • Periyar - Spice plantation visit
  • Periyar - National Park
  • Periyar - Guided nature walk
  • Kerala Backwaters - Pole boat ride
  • Kerala Backwaters - Village walk

Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN INDIA:
  • Main roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. if you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.
  • TRAVEL TIMES:
  • Distances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.
  • TRAINS:
  • India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.
  • From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip will may to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
  • The Indian Railway system is one of the largest railway networks in the world and quite complex. Seat allocation is completely computerized on a centralized reservation system and we do not have control over seat allocations. Despite booking tickets months in advance of a departure your group's seats, or sleeping berths on overnight trains, maybe spread out within one carriage or multiple carriages of the same class. There’s a chance you’ll be sharing a compartment with local travelers of either gender.
  • For a detailed look into the experience of travelling by overnight trains read more here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/india-trains-guide/
  • AUTO RICKSHAWS:
  • On this trip, we travel on the local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
  • FLIGHTS:
  • Airlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • ACCOMMODATION:
  • Some of the accommodation along the way is basic or simple, staying in local guesthouses and homestays. Some may have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only. We use a mixture of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.
  • SHOWERS:
  • Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.
  • ROOM ISSUES:
  • If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your tour leader right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
  • SLEEPER TRAINS IN INDIA:
  • Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned (fan-cooled at times), a great way to travel long distances and still get maximum time in each place. Depending on the route, we travel 2AC or 3AC class as not all classes are available on all routes. Due to the complexity of the ticket purchasing system and high demand for tickets, we are unable to offer upgrades to other classes.
  • Second Class or 2 Tier AC (2AC) carriages have 4 berths in the compartment section and 2 berths in the aisle bay and individual reading lights. Third Class or 3 Tier AC (3AC) has 6 berths in the compartment and 2 in the aisle bay. Both have curtains for privacy. There are no sinks or charging points in these classes. During the day, bunks are folded away and serve as seats. Toilet facilities are located at either end of the carriage. There is usually an Indian style squat toilet at one end and a western-style toilet at the other. You will need your own toilet paper or tissues and cleanliness will depend on the number of people using them.
  • Beds are padded bunks, with sheets, pillow and blanket provided. Some people prefer to bring and use their own sleeping sheet. Your luggage travels with you on the train, so packing light will make your journey more comfortable.
  • Many trains have a dining carriage or a food/snack cart that is brought through the carriages. There are also plenty of vendors selling tea, coffee, water and snacks during the journey, although the hygiene may not be up to standards you are used to at home.
  • Please note you may be sharing with other members of your group or locals on a mixed gender basis. Tickets are booked on a real-name basis using your passport details. We book for all members of the group at the same time, but unfortunately, this is no guarantee that we will be accommodated all together on the train. Your leader will do their best to swap with other travellers to allow people who booked together to travel together, but please be aware that this is not always possible. We may at times ask male travellers to swap with solo female travellers for safety considerations.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement exclude Day 5 (Jungle Lodge), Day 7 (Sleeper Train) and Day 13 (Homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport. Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.

Mode of Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN INDIA:
  • Main roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. if you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.
  • TRAVEL TIMES:
  • Distances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.
  • TRAINS:
  • India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.
  • From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip will may to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
  • The Indian Railway system is one of the largest railway networks in the world and quite complex. Seat allocation is completely computerized on a centralized reservation system and we do not have control over seat allocations. Despite booking tickets months in advance of a departure your group's seats, or sleeping berths on overnight trains, maybe spread out within one carriage or multiple carriages of the same class. There’s a chance you’ll be sharing a compartment with local travelers of either gender.
  • For a detailed look into the experience of travelling by overnight trains read more here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/india-trains-guide/
  • AUTO RICKSHAWS:
  • On this trip, we travel on the local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
  • FLIGHTS:
  • Airlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This trip is packed full of sights and experiences, including many of southern India's main highlights and plenty of insights into local life. There is extensive travel and a number of single-night stays to ensure you can fit in as much as possible.

    This adventure uses a variety of transport options, including train and bus travel for up to 8 hours. There is also an included overnight sleeper train from Mysore to Mamallapuram, so be sure to have a book, some podcasts and your best travel games ready.

    Sleeper trains are a quintessential Indian experience and a great way to travel long distances while still getting maximum time in each place. With the experience can come some unpredictability – there are occasional delays or even cancellations. Beds are padded berths with sheets, pillows, and blankets provided (although some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheets). Please note that you may be sharing with locals of the same or opposite gender. See the Transport section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail about train travel in India or this guide for more about train travel around the world: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/overnight-train-travel-around-the-world/

    In the Western Ghats, it can be surprisingly cool at night, especially in winter. Check weather reports before you go to help with your packing, and remember to bring modest clothing (e.g., pants or skirts that go below the knees and tops that cover your arms) for our visits to religious sites in particular.

    Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. You’ll be visiting a few temples throughout your adventure, so please ensure that you’re dressed appropriately with legs and shoulders covered.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

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1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Friday

Nov 29, 2024 - Dec 13, 2024
$2040 $1979

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Friday - Friday

Dec 06, 2024 - Dec 20, 2024
$2000 $1649

Operator discount: -$300

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$51

Friday - Friday

Dec 13, 2024 - Dec 27, 2024
$2040 $1880

Operator discount: -$102

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$58

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 15, 2024 - Dec 29, 2024
$2000 $1746

Operator discount: -$200

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$54

Friday - Friday

Jan 03, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025
$2015 $1955

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$60

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 05, 2025 - Jan 19, 2025
$2070 $2008

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Jan 17, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025
$1995 $1935

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$60

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 19, 2025 - Feb 02, 2025
$1975 $1916

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Jan 24, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Friday - Friday

Jan 31, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025
$2115 $2052

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 02, 2025 - Feb 16, 2025
$2075 $2013

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Feb 07, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 09, 2025 - Feb 23, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 11, 2025 - Feb 25, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 16, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 18, 2025 - Mar 04, 2025
$2095 $2032

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Thursday - Thursday

Feb 20, 2025 - Mar 06, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 23, 2025 - Mar 09, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 25, 2025 - Mar 11, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Friday - Friday

Feb 28, 2025 - Mar 14, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Friday - Friday

Mar 14, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 16, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 23, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Friday - Friday

Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Friday - Friday

Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Apr 18, 2025 - May 02, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Friday - Friday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Tuesday - Tuesday

Oct 14, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Friday - Friday

Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Friday - Friday

Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 16, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Friday - Friday

Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Friday - Friday

Nov 14, 2025 - Nov 28, 2025
$2110 $2047

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$63

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 30, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Friday - Friday

Nov 21, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Friday - Friday

Nov 28, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Tuesday - Tuesday

Dec 02, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Friday - Friday

Dec 12, 2025 - Dec 26, 2025
$2035 $1974

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$61

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 28, 2025
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Dec 19, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 21, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Dec 26, 2025 - Jan 09, 2026
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 28, 2025 - Jan 11, 2026
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Tuesday - Tuesday

Dec 30, 2025 - Jan 13, 2026
$1955 $1896

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$59

Friday - Friday

Jan 02, 2026 - Jan 16, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 04, 2026 - Jan 18, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Jan 09, 2026 - Jan 23, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Jan 16, 2026 - Jan 30, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Jan 23, 2026 - Feb 06, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Jan 30, 2026 - Feb 13, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 01, 2026 - Feb 15, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Friday - Friday

Feb 06, 2026 - Feb 20, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 08, 2026 - Feb 22, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 10, 2026 - Feb 24, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 15, 2026 - Mar 01, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 17, 2026 - Mar 03, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Thursday - Thursday

Feb 19, 2026 - Mar 05, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 22, 2026 - Mar 08, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 24, 2026 - Mar 10, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Friday - Friday

Feb 27, 2026 - Mar 13, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 15, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 08, 2026 - Mar 22, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Friday - Friday

Mar 13, 2026 - Mar 27, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 15, 2026 - Mar 29, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 22, 2026 - Apr 05, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Friday - Friday

Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 10, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Friday - Friday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 17, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Friday - Friday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 24, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Apr 17, 2026 - May 01, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 18, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 16, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Friday - Friday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 23, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 11, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Friday - Friday

Oct 16, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Friday - Friday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 06, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 25, 2026 - Nov 08, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Friday - Friday

Oct 30, 2026 - Nov 13, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 01, 2026 - Nov 15, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Friday - Friday

Nov 06, 2026 - Nov 20, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 08, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Friday - Friday

Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 27, 2026
$2215 $2149

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$66

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 15, 2026 - Nov 29, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Friday - Friday

Nov 20, 2026 - Dec 04, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Friday - Friday

Nov 27, 2026 - Dec 11, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Tuesday - Tuesday

Dec 01, 2026 - Dec 15, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 06, 2026 - Dec 20, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Friday - Friday

Dec 11, 2026 - Dec 25, 2026
$2135 $2071

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$64

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 13, 2026 - Dec 27, 2026
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Dec 18, 2026 - Jan 01, 2027
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 20, 2026 - Jan 03, 2027
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Friday - Friday

Dec 25, 2026 - Jan 08, 2027
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 27, 2026 - Jan 10, 2027
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Tuesday - Tuesday

Dec 29, 2026 - Jan 12, 2027
$2050 $1989

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$62

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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