Premium Central Asia
18 Days Starting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and ending in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Visiting: Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Almaty, Bishkek, Issky Kul, Karakol
Tour operator:
Tour code:
KFPUK
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Premium Central Asia" tour, a captivating journey through Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Central Asian culture with cooking classes in Samarkand and Khiva, and savor local flavors at a family-owned winery in Almaty. Discover the Soviet legacy in Tashkent, the architectural wonders of Samarkand, and the historical charm of Bukhara. Venture off the beaten path to explore the stunning landscapes of Sharyn Canyon, Jety Oguz, and Lake Issyk-Kul. Experience authentic local life with a night in a yurt camp by the lake. Stay in a historic boutique hotel in Bukhara and enjoy guided tours of Silk Route cities like Almaty and Bishkek. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty, all while traveling in comfort with private vehicles, planes, and trains.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Accommodation Name: Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Dinner
Xush kelibsiz! Welcome to Uzbekistan. Your adventure begins in the largest city in Central Asia, Tashkent. The mix of Russian and Uzbek style is an indication that for many years, it was a key city of the USSR. Extravagant mosques, both ancient and new, sit alongside modern highways and Soviet monuments. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and be transferred to your hotel. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe take a walk to see some of the contemporary architecture that sets this city apart from many other Silk Road destinations. After your meeting, join your group for a welcome dinner at an excellent local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek food such as laghman noodles, norin noodles and fried dumplings.
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 2: Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Accommodation Name: Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Tashkent on a city tour with your leader. First, make your way to the Khast Imom Complex, which includes the Barak Khan medressa (a college for Islamic instruction), the Kaffal Shashi mausoleum, the Quran Library and the Mosque, which holds one of the oldest and holiest Korans in the world. Then, leave behind the spiritual world and venture into the Chorsu Bazzar – one of the largest and oldest markets in Central Asia. Wandering through this giant marketplace is a fantastic way to see locals going about their daily lives. Uzbeks are some of the friendliest people in the world and with your leader on hand to bridge any language gaps, you’ll soon find yourself chatting to many locals. Your leader will show you some of Tashkent’s beautiful metro stations, then you’ll finish the tour at Amir Temur Square. With your free afternoon, you may like to visit the striking Kukeldash medressa.
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Day 3: Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Samarkand or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Early this morning, take a high-speed Afrosiab train to the ancient Silk Road hub of Samarkand. The city has long been a centre of artisans and traders as well as the prize for many a conquering army, leaving behind a rich and complex history. When you arrive, stop by the gorgeous remains of the Ulugbek Observatory – built by a Muslim prince, your leader will explain how this unpopular ruler had a controversial passion for astronomy. After, explore the Afrosiab Museum – home to a treasured 7th-century fresco of the Sogdian King Varkhouman. Then, head to the workshop of a local artisan in Konigil to discover one of the few people in Central Asia who continues to produce paper using a 1000-year-old method. This village is home to the Meros paper mill, founded by well-known masters, the Mukhtarov brothers. Thanks to their efforts, the local factory revived an ancient tradition based on old Samarkand technologies. You'll also see a ceramics workshop, then you can enjoy a free evening to explore Samarkand at your own pace.
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Day 4: Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Samarkand or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you’ll dig deeper into Samarkand’s fascinating cultural heritage with your leader. First, visit the holy Shah-i-Zinda complex – the so-called ‘Town of the Dead’ necropolis, with more than 20 beautifully decorated unique buildings. Then, head to the Gur Amir Mausoleum. Your leader will tell you all about the mighty ruler Timur, as this is his final resting place. Stand on the iconic Registan Square with three mosaic-adorned madrassas towering over you, then explore the Siob Bazaar, full of bustling stalls and friendly local traders. This afternoon, head out of the city to the Bagizagan winery, considered the best wine producer in Uzbekistan. Get a special insight into the production of Uzbek wine and try a few drops for yourself. In the evening, you’ll have the intimate Uzbek experience of joining a local family for a cooking demonstration on the traditional meal ‘plov’. Uzbek men pride themselves on their ability to prepare the most unique and delicious plov (a tasty rice dish cooked over an open flame in a traditional cauldron) and you’ll sit down to share some over dinner.
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Day 5: Bukhara
Location: Bukhara
Accommodation Name: Converted Jewish House (feature stay) or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, you’ll make your way to the holy and historic city of Bukhara on a high-speed train. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Bukhara is widely regarded as Central Asia’s holiest city and is home to monuments dating from the 8th to the 18th century AD. When you arrive, you’ll take a tour of some of the sites with your leader. Head out to see some of the monuments – the meticulous restoration of many of the mosaic and majolica decorations gives you a true sense of how these buildings looked in their original glory. Visit the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum and the Bolo-Khauz Mosque. After, head to your Feature Stay in a converted Jewish House. Historic and authentic, these houses are interestingly decorated and there’s much to explore here. This evening, head out to dinner at a local restaurant, then you’ll enjoy an Uzbek folklore and music performance at one of the city’s madrasses.
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Day 6: Bukhara
Location: Bukhara
Accommodation Name: Converted Jewish House (feature stay) or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, you’ll continue to explore Bukhara with your leader. After breakfast, visit the ruins of the 5th-century Ark Fortress and the imposing Poikalon complex. Taki Zargaron and the trading domes near here still offer a colourful array of goods including embroideries, jewellery, spices, handicrafts and all manner of Silk Road treasures. This is the place to test your haggling skills and share a joke or two with local craftsman and merchants. Visit the central Lyabi-Hauz complex and its surrounding areas, which you may want to revisit during twilight hours. Then, you have the rest of the afternoon and evening free to explore at your own pace – your leader will always be on hand with great recommendations.
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Day 7: Khiva
Location: Khiva
Accommodation Name: Arkanchi Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a leisurely morning in Bukhara, visit Sitorai Mohi Hosa – the summer Palace of Alim Khan, Uzbekistan’s last emir. Your leader will share stories of the emir’s extravagant lifestyle as you explore the luxuriously decorated compound. Then, say your goodbyes and drive to Khiva. You’ll travel through the Kyzyl-Kum (Red Sands Desert) – the largest desert area in Central Asia that has long been inhabited by various nomadic people. Along the way, you’ll stop for photos, lunch and a walk in the desert to learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region. Stop at a few viewpoints along the way, then arrive in Khiva in the evening, where you’re free to rest and recharge after a long travel day.
Included Activities:
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Day 8: Khiva
Location: Khiva
Accommodation Name: Arkanchi Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take a full day to explore Khiva with your leader. This city is well preserved and perfect for exploring on foot, with impressive walls that mark the boundaries of the Old City. Your leader will guide you through the ancient monuments, including the turquoise Kalta Minor Minaret, the Khan museum, the 17th-century Juma Mosque and the Islom-Hoja Minaret and Medressa. Visit the Kuhna Ark, which was the main fortress, and look over the city from the hill of the Ak-Sheikh Baba observation platform. Finish with the tranquil 19th-century Tosh-Hovli Palace. Later, head to one of the city’s roof terraces for a glass of champagne as you watch the sunset. Tonight, join a cooking class and learn the secrets of Khorezmian cuisine. Make traditional dishes like shivit oshi (green noodles) and tuhum-barak (egg dumplings) then tuck into your creations for dinner.
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Day 9: Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Accommodation Name: Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Transfer to the airport in the morning for a flight to Tashkent. Admire the facade of the Navoi Theatre, named for one of the nom de plume’s of Ali-Shir Nava’I – a 16th-century writer and mystic. The multi-arched building was partially constructed by Japanese prisoners of war. Next, take a walk down the buzzing Broadway Alley, where there’s always something happening. Take some time to wander the street lined by shady trees and works from local artists. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a final dinner and say farewell to this spectacular Silk Road country.
Day 10: Almaty
Location: Almaty
Accommodation Name: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Say goodbye to Uzbekistan today and catch an unescorted flight to Almaty, Kazakhstan's former capital which features wide, tree-lined streets, numerous parks and views of snow-capped mountains. If you arrive early, you may want to visit the State Museum of Arts, the State History Museum or the Kasteev House Museum – the most famous Kazakh artist from Soviet times. This evening there will be a second group meeting to meet your new local leader and fellow travellers after which you’ll have dinner with your group at a traditional Kazakh restaurant.
Included Activities:
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Day 11: Almaty
Location: Almaty
Accommodation Name: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, you’ll head out with a local guide for a city tour of downtown Almaty. Visit Central Square and the colourful Zenkoff Cathedral (also the second tallest wooden building in the world) in historic Panfilov Park, dedicated to the 28 guardsmen who died defending Moscow against German tanks in WWII. Check out the fascinating Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments, which features a great collection of ancient relics. This afternoon, head to a local, family-owned and ran winery just outside the city for a delicious lunch and wine tasting. Meet the owners and learn more about wine production in Kazakhstan. Return to Almaty in the late afternoon, where your evening is free to explore at your own pace.
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Day 12: Bishkek
Location: Bishkek
Accommodation Name: Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast this morning, you’ll leave Kazakhstan for Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tamgaly Tas, which features some amazing Bronze Age petroglyphs. Enjoy a picnic lunch here, then carry on to Bishkek – the capital of Kyrgyzstan that borders Central Asia's Tian Shan range. Arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll head straight out for an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings, then you can enjoy a free evening.
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Day 13: Bishkek
Location: Bishkek
Accommodation Name: Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a half-day city tour of downtown Bishkek today. Meet with a local Bishkek guide and head out to see Ala-Too Square and the statue of Manas – the hero of heroes for the local Kyrgyz people. See the Russian Orthodox church, one of the only few Lenin statues left in all the ex-USSR countries, Oak Park (the oldest park in the country), the Opera house and Victory Square, with its eternal flame dedicated to WW2. After some free time to rest and recharge, head out to meet a local designer, craftsman and design historian to learn about Central Asian textile design and manufacturing. Tonight, you’re free to find the best spot for dinner – your leader will always have some great recommendations!
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Day 14: Issky Kul
Location: Issky Kul
Accommodation Name: Barbulak Yurt Camp (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a relaxed breakfast today, you’ll start the drive to Lake Issyk-Kul – one of the largest lakes in the world, 178 km long and 60 km wide. Along the way, stop at Burana Tower – a large minaret in the Chuy Valley – and visit the monument and museum. You’ll then be welcomed into the home of a local farming family nearby for a homemade lunch. Chat with the locals, then continue to Kyzyk Tuu village. When you arrive, meet with a local craftsman who keeps the ancient tradition of yurt making alive. Head to a workshop where the craftsman will show you how they’re made with no electrical tools and gain an insight into how these iconic structures are built, including the process of making Kiiz (the felt layers that cover the yurt). Maybe even have a go at assembling your own! Tonight, you’ll test your nomadic skills with a night in a traditional yurt camp – these yurts were made by the craftsmen in the local village, so you know you’re getting the authentic experience. After a walk with your group to admire the landscape, gather around the campfire for dinner under the stars.
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Day 15: Karakol
Location: Karakol
Accommodation Name: Green Yard Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart the yurt camp after breakfast this morning and head to Karakol – the furthest eastern outpost of former Tsarist Russia and, later, of the USSR. On the way, visit Skazka Canyon (which translates to Fairytale Canyon) to soak in the rugged stone peaks that contrast the meadows and alpine lakes that make so much of Kyrgyzstan’s landscape. After lunch, continue to Jety Oguz Valley – its name means 'seven bulls,' which refers to the seven red-brown cliffs here. Walk through the gorgeous valley and carry on to Karakol – this town was founded as a Russian military outpost and still has a few ‘Gingerbread houses’ along its scenic streets.
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Day 16: Karakol
Location: Karakol
Accommodation Name: Green Yard Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you’ll embark on a tour of the city with your local leader. First, visit the Prezhevalsky Museum and learn about a Russian explorer who made discoveries in China and Mongolia. hen, walk along the scenic streets of Karakol to see the ‘Gingerbread Cottage’ houses. Visit a lively local market to browse for souvenirs, then see the Dungan Mosque and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Tonight, you’ll be welcomed into the family home of a Dungan local for a masterclass on local cuisine – the Dungan or Hui people are a local ethnic group of Chinese Muslims who escaped China after the defeat of the Hui revolt in 1877. Today, they have a large community all over Central Asia, especially in Karakol. Enjoy dinner with your hosts, then head back to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.
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Day 17: Almaty
Location: Almaty
Accommodation Name: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today is a long travel day, including a border crossing back into Kazakhstan. Wake up early this morning and grab a window seat if you can – the scenery is entertainment in itself! You’ll make a few stops along the way for photos and to stretch your legs, including at Sharyn Canyon – often referred as the little brother of the Grand Canyon in the Unites States, wind and water have shaped this spectacular canyon with different shapes and colours. Go on a short hike to the bottom of the canyon, seeing some incredible viewpoints along the way. After, continue to Almaty. When you arrive, freshen up at the hotel then head out for a traditional dinner with your group to toast to an amazing adventure.
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Day 18: Almaty
Location: Almaty
Meals Included: Breakfast
With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you want to continue your trip in Central Asia and discover more along the Silk Routes, then why not check out our Premium Uzbekistan trip. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
What's Included
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Tashkent - welcome dinner
Enjoy a welcome dinner in Tashkent.
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Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
Visit the Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent.
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Tashkent - Amir Timur Square
Explore Amir Timur Square in Tashkent.
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Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum
Tour the Khast Imom Complex and Moyie Mubarek Library Museum in Tashkent.
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Tashkent - City tour
Participate in a city tour of Tashkent.
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Tashkent - Metro tour
Experience a metro tour in Tashkent.
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Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand.
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Samarkand - Handmade paper workshop
Attend a handmade paper workshop in Samarkand.
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Samarkand - Afrosiab Museum
Explore the Afrosiab Museum in Samarkand.
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Samarkand - Plov cooking demonstration & family visit
Join a plov cooking demonstration and visit a local family in Samarkand.
What's Not Included
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Single supplement
A single supplement is available if you prefer not to share a room, subject to availability.
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Luggage allowance
The domestic flight from Urgench to Tashkent has a luggage allowance of 20kg for checked luggage and 5kg for carry on.
The international flight from Tashkent to Almaty has a luggage allowance of 20kg for checked luggage and 8kg for carry on.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Central Asia using a combination of private vehicles, planes, and trains, ensuring a seamless journey across diverse landscapes and cities. This mix of transportation modes provides both comfort and efficiency, allowing you to explore the region's highlights with ease.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of comfort and authenticity with accommodations ranging from boutique hotels in historical settings to traditional yurt camps. While some amenities may be basic, the well-located and comfortable lodgings offer a unique cultural experience, including a memorable night in a yurt by Lake Issyk-Kul.
Important Information
1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.2. A single supplement is available if you'd prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.3. The domestic flight from Urgench to Tashkent has a luggage allowance of 20kg for checked luggage and 5kg for carry on. The international flight from Tashkent to Almaty has a luggage allowance of 20kg for checked luggage and 8kg for carry on.4. Due to changes to the airline’s flight schedule, on some departures the domestic flight to Tashkent on Day 9 will be in the afternoon instead of the morning. All included activities will remain unchanged.5. This trip is a combination of two trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the Premium Central Asia tour?
The tour includes unique cultural experiences such as cooking classes with local families in Samarkand and Khiva, a visit to a family-owned winery in Almaty, and a traditional lunch in a remote Kyzyl Tuu Village. Additionally, there is a folklore and music performance in Bukhara and a Dungan family visit and cooking masterclass in Karakol.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
Accommodation during the tour is among the best available in the region, well-located and comfortable, though it may not always meet western expectations. A highlight is a stay in a historical Feature Stay in an old Jewish house converted into a boutique hotel in Bukhara. There is also a memorable night in a comfortable yurt camp by Lake Issyk-Kul, which offers shared facilities as there are no bathrooms within the yurt.
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Are there any special transportation arrangements during the tour?
The tour includes transportation by private vehicle, plane, and train. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included if you arrive on Day 1 or have booked pre-tour accommodation through the tour provider.
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What natural landscapes will I visit on this tour?
The tour takes you to several incredible natural landscapes, including Sharyn Canyon, Jety Oguz, Skazka Canyon, and Lake Issyk-Kul, which is the second largest alpine lake in the world.
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Is there a luggage allowance for flights during the tour?
Yes, the domestic flight from Urgench to Tashkent has a luggage allowance of 20kg for checked luggage and 5kg for carry-on. The international flight from Tashkent to Almaty allows 20kg for checked luggage and 8kg for carry-on.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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