Highlights of Northern Greece & Turkey
Highlights of Northern Greece & Turkey
$3299
Highlights of Northern Greece & Turkey
13 Days Starting in Athens, Greece and ending in Istanbul, Turkey
Visiting: Athens, Thermopylae, Volos, Vólos, Mount Olympus National Park, Vergina, Thessaloniki, Kavala, Alexandropoli, Istanbul, Gallipoli Peninsula, Çanakkale, Troy, Ayvalik, Selçuk, Ephesus, Izmir, Konya, Cappadocia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26485
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Battlefield Tours, Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Northern Greece and Turkey with the "Highlights of Northern Greece & Turkey" tour. This adventure takes you from the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Troy to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. Experience the rich cultural tapestry of the region by visiting a women-run agricultural co-op in Vizitsa, exploring the breathtaking national park beneath Mt. Olympus, and savoring local delicacies during a cultural walk in Volos. Travel in comfort with private vehicles, ferries, trains, and planes, and enjoy 12 nights in hotels. With a small group size, this tour offers an intimate exploration of these historic lands, guided by a knowledgeable CEO. Whether you're hiking through fairy chimneys or enjoying a local family dinner in Cavusin, this tour promises a blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Athens/Vólos
Location: Athens, Thermopylae, Volos
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Depart Athens in the morning for the drive to Volos, with a quick stop in Thermopylae on the way for a short visit. Once in Volos, set off on an orientation walk with your CEO, followed by some free time to settle into the hotel and relax. In the evening, meet up with a local guide and head out on a cultural walk to see some of the city's highlights, stopping at 2 different local taverns along the way for small plates of food called 'meze,' truly a local and delicious experience that will serve as a light dinner.
Thermopylae is an ancient battlefield where Greek (mainly Spartan) soldiers held off the Persian army for three days. A battle which acted as inspiration for the movie 300.
Additional Information: This tour departs from Athens on day 1 and it is required to be at the meeting point hotel no later than 8:00am. We recommend that you book a pre-night at our hotel or nearby for the night prior so that you don't miss the group transfer.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Explore the Thermopylae site and Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Learn about how Spartan warriors defended against a Persian invasion at this site in 480 BC through exhibits featuring multimedia presentations and artifacts.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, and ATMs, as well as point out some local sites.
ACTIVITY: Set out on a walk with a local guide, learning of archaeology, mythology, and gastronomy as you sample local drinks and delicious plates of 'meze'. Witness the city's highlights and immerse yourself in Volos' unique culture.
Day 2: Vólos
Location: Volos
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head out from Volos today on a day of exploration and cultural immersion, hopping village-to-village. Explore Milies and take a short hike to a cave, stop by a women's co-op in Vizitsa then visit the town of Pinakates and have beach time at Kato Gatzea before returning to Volos in the evening. Each stop provides a unique glance into the daily life in this beautiful corner of the world.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Explore Milies, a well preserved village known for its stone mansions, cobblestones, and railway. Head out on foot for a short 1-hour hike to visit the Centaur Cave where Chiron lived. Visit the church and take some time to shop for local wares.
ACTIVITY: Visit Vizitsa, known for the agricultural co-op owned and run by local women. Opt to sample local goods and enjoy coffee and snacks.
ACTIVITY: Explore the village square; take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
ACTIVITY: Sit back and relax with free time at the beach. Enjoy the golden sand and clear water, or explore the quaint village, home of local tavernas serving truly authentic Greek cuisine.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 3: Vólos/Thessaloníki
Location: Vólos, Mount Olympus National Park, Vergina, Thessaloniki
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive north from Volos, stopping at Mount Olympus National Park for a short walk near the mountain that was home to the gods in Greek mythology. Continue to the Polycentric Museum of Aigai to tour the tombs and see the archaeological artifacts before carrying to Thessaloniki. Join your CEO for an orientation walk and enjoy a free evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Arrive at the Prioni Refuge and visitor centre for free time over lunch, then take part in a short walk with your CEO through the forest around Mt Olympus, the summit is said to house the mythical Gods. Explore the vast wilderness and several different ecosystems.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, the Vergina Royal Tombs. Vergina was the first capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedonia and houses the Royal Tomb of King Phillip, father of Alexander the Great. Tour the tombs and museum and witness the stunning treasure found here.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets and ATMs.and show you some of the main sites.
Day 4: Thessaloníki
Location: Thessaloniki
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take advantage of a free day to explore Thessaloniki. Discover historic landmarks like the Roman Forum, visit museums or take a walking food tour, sampling dishes like Greek 'meze' and other regional specialties. In the evening, head out for an optional dinner at one of your CEO's favourite local spots.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Day 5: Thessaloníki/Kavala
Location: Thessaloniki, Kavala
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wave goodbye to Thessaloniki this morning and drive to the city of Kavala. Settle in and orient yourself with a CEO-led orientation walk of the old town with the option to walk up to the castle for great views of the city and of the sea. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to continue exploring or to relax.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
FREE TIME: There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Day 6: Kavala/Istanbul
Location: Kavala, Alexandropoli, Istanbul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart Kavala in the morning and drive east to the city of Alexandropoli. Take a short walk with the CEO to explore the area and have some time for lunch before continuing on to the Turkish border and onwards to Istanbul, arriving in the evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Wander the old town area with your CEO and learn about the two communities intermingling in their daily lives.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 7: Istanbul/Çanakkale
Location: Istanbul, Gallipoli Peninsula, Çanakkale
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel east from Istanbul to the Gallipoli Peninsula for a guided tour of the area including ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. In the afternoon, continue on to the harbour town of Çanakkale.
Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story.
It is only a little further to Çanakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit this moving and beautiful site, a great complement to any trip to Turkey, even for those not familiar with the Battle of Gallipoli. Tour the grounds to see ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. Learn how the Turks fought off the numerically superior, but badly commanded, Allied forces who were forced to withdraw nine months later; this battle holds special significance for Australians and New Zealanders, as both nations lost many soldiers.
TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Day 8: Çanakkale/Selçuk
Location: Çanakkale, Troy, Ayvalik, Selçuk
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Set off from Çanakkale and visit the ancient city of Troy. Continue to Ayvalik and stop by the G-supported Cöp(m)adam handicraft coop before travelling south to the town of Selçuk for the night.
Visit the nearby historic and world-famous city of Troy and then visit the G-supported Cöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation, which support the local women who work in the workshop. Continue south to Selçuk for the next couple of nights.
ACTIVITY: See historic Troy, made famous by Homer’s “Iliad,” (and more recently by Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt). Tour the city that, for centuries, was regarded as just a myth, until its ruins were found in in the mid-19th century. Imagine what a great city this must have been, while taking a tour of the remains. Don't miss the chance to have a photo taken with the Trojan horse.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit the G-supported çöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation. All products are made out of recycled goods and by making a purchase it will directly support the local women who work in the workshop and over time has contributed to over 500 women who have been part of the project.
Day 9: Selçuk/İzmir
Location: Ephesus, Selçuk, Izmir
Accommodation Name: overnight train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Explore Ephesus this morning as well as the Temple of Artemis, one of the ancient seven wonders of the world, Temple of Artemis. Back in Selçuk, take part in a demonstration of how to prepare pide, a traditional Turkish flatbread, then devour the delicious results for lunch. In the afternoon transfer to the city of Izmir for an orientation walk of the old Kemeralti old bazaar then board an overnight train bound for Cappadocia.
Tour the nearby ancient Roman ruins of Ephesus for a glimpse into what life was like thousands of years before in this part of what is now Turkey. After driving back to Selçuk, learn all about how to make "Turkish pizza," called pide before transferring north to the city of Izmir for some exploration before hopping on the overnight train.
ACTIVITY: Tour the ruins of ancient Ephesus to get a feeling of what life must have been like during Roman times. Take in its massive, well-preserved theatre, which dominates the view down Harbour Street. See the two-story library, whose façade has been carefully reconstructed from all original pieces. Built in AD 125, it once held nearly 12,000 scrolls.
ACTIVITY: Lean all about the preparation of pide, a savoury flatbread often affectionately referred to as "Turkish pizza." See how they are traditionally prepared by flattening wheat dough then topping with cheese, tomatoes and other ingredients before cooking in a hot oven. Enjoy the finished results for lunch.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Set out on foot with your CEO on an orientation walk of the Kemeralti Old Bazaar, in Izmir. Wander amongst the traditional food stores before taking some free time in Izmir to explore.
TRANSPORT: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.
Day 10: Konya/Cappadocia
Location: Konya, Cappadocia
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Disembark the train in Konya and grab some breakfast at a nearby restaurant. Visit the Mevlana Museum before continuing by private vehicle to the Cappadocia region and check into the hotel. Sip a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the sunset from a nearby viewpoint before heading out for an optional dinner with the group in the evening.
Transfer to Cappadocia for 2 days of exploring the surreal and spectacular landscapes of the area.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Mevlana Museum and mausoleum of Mevlana Rumi, a Persian Sufi mystic. Learn more about the mystic Islamic sect known as the Whirling Dervishes.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 11: Cappadocia
Location: Cappadocia
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Set out on a full day of exploration of the Cappadocia area, starting with a hike through the iconic "fairy chimneys." Stop at various scenic viewpoints for photos on the way to the massive subterranean complex of the Kaymakli underground city before some free time in the afternoon for individual exploration or to relax at the hotel. In the evening, gain insight into the local cultural traditions by sharing a meal with a local family.
Outdoor enthusiast? Hire a bike to get around on two wheels or join your CEO on an optional trekking tour through one of the beautiful valleys of the region.
ACTIVITY: Immerser yourself into the surreal and spectacular landscapes of Cappadocia on a hike through the iconic and aptly-named "fairy chimney" formations.
ACTIVITY: Visit the ancient and expansive subterranean complex of the Kaymakli Underground City. Thought to have been built between the 8th and 7th Century BC, Kaymakli was carved out of the rock and consists of nearly a hundred tunnels with vast amounts of storerooms, ventilation shafts and a church.
FREE TIME: Take advantage of free time in the Cappadocia area to choose from a number of optional activities or relax at the hotel.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy seasonal homemade dishes, and talk with friendly hosts about life in rural Cappadocia.
Day 12: Cappadocia/Istanbul
Location: Cappadocia, Istanbul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After an early breafast, transfer to the airport to catch the flight back to Istanbul. Enjoy the rest of the day free for individual exploration of the historic and vibrant city, grab some street food or relax at a cafe before an optional final dinner with the group.
Continue on to İstanbul for the opportunity to finish up your sightseeing or get in some last minute shopping.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 13: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
What's Included
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G for Good Moment
Visit the Cop(m)adam handicraft coop in Ayvalik, supporting local women.
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Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group at the start of the tour.
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Foodie Moment
Participate in a pide demonstration and lunch in Selcuk.
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Local Living Moment
Have dinner with a local family in Cavusin.
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Thermopylae Battleground Site
Visit the Thermopylae Battleground Site and Information Centre.
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Volos Orientation Walk
Take an orientation walk in Volos.
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Village-Hopping Tour
Enjoy a full-day village-hopping tour from Vilos.
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Hike to Centaur Cave
Hike to the centaur cave from Milies and visit a women's coop in Vizitsa.
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Visit Pinakates and Agios Georgios
Visit Pinakates, Agios Georgios, and enjoy beach time at Kato Gatzea.
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Mount Olympus National Park
Walk in Mount Olympus National Park.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and entrance fees are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and tips are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel seamlessly with a mix of private vehicles, ferries, trains, planes, and walking, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive journey through diverse landscapes.
Accommodation
Enjoy 12 nights in comfortable hotels, providing a cozy and convenient base for your explorations throughout Northern Greece and Turkey.
Meals Included
12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES NOTE:
During high season in Europe (May-October) we highly recommend booking reservations for any popular optional activities/museum tickets etc. in advance to avoid encountering sold-out activities on the ground while on tour.
Group Leader
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
About Accommodation
On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations.
Note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your CEO to organize one for you with reception.
What to Take
Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one piece of luggage per person. Please carefully consider your luggage size and weight when packing, and remember that laundry facilities will be available throughout the tour.
Bringing your belongings in a small or medium sized suitcase, preferably a soft bag, will allow you the flexibility to better enjoy your travels on the ground.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a variety of transportation methods including private vehicles, ferries, trains, planes, and walking.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will stay in hotels for 12 nights. These are typically small family-run hotels or pensions, with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels. The accommodations are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there is a choice of eating options to give you maximum flexibility.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 16, with an average of 12 participants.
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Is there a minimum age requirement to join the tour?
Yes, you must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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What should I consider when packing for this tour?
Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one piece of luggage per person. It's recommended to bring your belongings in a small or medium-sized suitcase, preferably a soft bag, to allow flexibility during your travels.
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Will there be a guide during the tour?
Yes, the tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will provide information, offer suggestions, and introduce you to local friends. Local guides are also used where more specific knowledge will enhance the experience.
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What is the policy for solo travelers on this tour?
Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, and there is no single supplement.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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