Festivals & Special Events Tours & Trips 2020
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DEPARTURE DATES
Travel Style
Travel Style
Relaxed A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Full on For those looking to maximize their sight seeing time. You thrive on a packed day’s schedule from 8 am to 6pm, with some (but limited) free time. Most activities and meals included.
Mixed You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Trip Type
Trip Type
Group Tour Groups are between 25-60 people, typically ~30-40. Usually there will be many opportunities to split off and enjoy meals and excursions in smaller groups. This is the most economical way to travel, saving up to 40% versus booking the same itinerary yourself.
Small Group Tour Small groups are usually defined as between 10 and 24 travelers, often less. If you're the kind of person who enjoys more intimate experiences and personal service this is a good choice. All else being equal you will pay a premium for this style vs a larger group tour.
River Cruise These vessels are smaller than most ocean cruisers, limiting which amenties are available. Passenger counts can vary. One of the biggest advantages of a river cruise is the ability to dock at smaller ports and local villages.
Small Ship Cruise Small ship cruises usually have a max passenger count of 500. The primary purpose of these trips is to spend time off the vessel in local ports (e.g. Mediterranean) or experiencing nature (e.g Galapagos or Antarctica). Cabins can vary from budget to luxury.
Private Guided Private tours give you the undivided attention of a guide, and often involve special access to sites and unique experiences not available to larger groups. This is a great option for families, couples, and small friend groups. Expect to pay a bit more for the extra service.
Self Guided / Independent Tour A travel company plans your itinerary and arranges all the logistics including lodging, local activities, and transportantion. You have the flexibility of a solo trip while still getting the convience and time savings of expert planning. Get 90% of the benefits of a tour, without a guide.
Vacation / Holiday Package Similar to a self guided tour, this usually involves a home base, such as a hotel or resort, with packaged activities and day tours as a part of the stay.
Large Ship Cruise This is the "floating city" experience, with multiple ways to enjoy your vacation aboard the ship as much as on land. Ships are multiple floors, provide several activities, culinary, and shopping options. They often make fewer stops and have less time available for shore excursions.
Itinerary Focus
Lodging Level
Lodging Level
Camping Typically involves most nights sleeping in tents (sometimes permanent tented sites) or in rustic cabins and lodges.
Basic - 2 star You'll stay in no-frills, but clean and comfortable, hotels or guesthouses. A 'Basic' trip might also involve a few nights of camping.
Value - 3 star Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Premium - 4 star 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Luxury - 5 star The highest level of comfort and service. All accomodations are in four or five star hotels, boutique lodges or high-end homestays.
Price
Duration Dropdown
Countries Visited
Physical Level
Physical Level
Very Easy Minimal walking - motor vehicles available for all major parts of trip.
Easy Normal generally flat walking in urban or suburban environments.
Moderate Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment.
Strenuous All or most of day hiking or biking, hills included.
Extreme Very challenging all day hiking and backpacking carrying significant equipment.
Travel Theme
Travelers Age
Rivers & Seas Visitied
Attractions & Cities Visited
Activities & Interests
Solo Friendly
Solo Friendly
Good for Singles Trips that specifically cater to travelers looking to meet other singles.
No Single Supplement Trips where single supplement is usually not required for solo travelers.
Supplier (Company)
Flight & Transport Inclusions
Continents Visited
Halloween in Transylvania

- Transylvania conjures up images of haunted castles, gothic churches and vampires. Where better to spend Halloween than in the 12th-century town of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Count Dracula? Things are about to get medi-evil
- Visit Biertan’s 15th-century fortified church, equipped to withstand long sieges and shelter the whole village in times of war. There’s even a ‘matrimonial prison’ where couples wanting to divorce were subjected to the Middle Ages’ idea of marriage counselling
- A homestay with in the traditional Saxon village of Viscri exposes you to Romanian hospitality and some finger-licking home-cooked food
- Delve into the communist past and the thriving, artistic present-day vibe of Bucharest, a city often underrated by travellers. The grand architecture of the 1980’s Palace of the Parliament is particularly awe-inspiring
Papua New Guinea National Mask Festival

- Marvel at an active volcano, tuck into a shoreline barbecue and experience a traditional sing-sing in the Duke of York Islands
- Discover how the World Wars played out in the Pacific. Visit the War Museum in Rabaul and head underground for a tour of the Japanese tunnels in Kokopo
- Be mesmerised by the chants of the Kinavai ceremony as the canoes paddle across the magical dawn
- There's nothing in the world like the Baining fire dance. Watch as men engulf themselves in flames to the beat of the bamboo drum and escape unharmed
- Gain an insight into small village industry on a day trip to the tiny Matupit Island
- Relax and unwind at the plush Rapopo Plantation Resort when it's all over
Papua New Guinea Firedance Festival

- As a small group, be welcomed into a local village and watch as traditional Baining dancers circle a growing fire and perform dancing rituals – a insight into one of Papua New Guinea’s indigenous cultures.
- Spend time before and after the performance learning more about these traditional customs, sharing meals, stories and laughs with local community members.
- Jump straight into island life of the Duke of York Islands, marvelling at an active volcano, tucking into a beachside barbecue and experiencing a traditional sing-sing with the villagers.
- Discover how the World Wars played out in the Pacific, by visiting the War Museum in Rabaul and heading underground for a tour of the Japanese tunnels in Kokopo.
- Head with your expert local leader to Matupit – an ‘island’ dwarfed in the shadow of Tavurvur Volcano looming overhead – to visit the local community, their markets and streets.
Mexico City: Day of the Dead Original

- Fiesta the night away in Mexico City and get into the true spirit of this haunting ceremonial festival.
- Get the low-down on all of the traditions and rituals of the Day of the Dead festival, including taking part in making your own traditional altar offering.
- Get a taste of local art with a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum in the Coyoacan neighbourhood. Check out the works in her former home, with her art often focused on the notion of death.
- Explore the historic town of Tepoztlan – a mecca for artists and mystics, with a magical feel in the air. Tour the ancient city and ruins, and climb to the top of the Tepozteco pyramid.
- All of these festivities will work up an appetite. Luckily Mexico City boasts some of Central America’s best food – from roadside taco stands to fine dining in the heart of the city, you won’t go hungry.
Essential Diwali Festival in India

- Light the roof on fire! And by that we mean light up the rooftops of Jaipur with fireworks for Diwali Festival
- Saree not sorry. Look radiant for Diwali night in a colourful and dazzling saree to match your surroundings.
- While in Karauli experience royal Rajasthani swagger in your very own palace crib
- The Taj Mahal may be one of the most recognisable buildings in the world, but do you know its poetic history? A local expert will fill you in.
- Check out a Bollywood blockbuster in the coolest cinema in the country
Incredible Ethiopia: Timket Festival

- Be part of the procession of locals marching to Jan Meda in preparations for Timket Festival in Addis Ababa
- Search for the source of the Blue Nile on a boat cruise at Lake Tana, then discover the churches and unique castles of the regal city of Gondar.
- Trek the majestic series of undulating amethyst peaks that make up the Simien Mountains, looking out for the distinctive red-hearted Gelada.
- Explore Lalibela's unique churches - astonishing constructions sculpted from huge slabs of stone - that make up one of the world's greatest historical and religious sites.
Southern Comfort USA - New Orleans Jazz Festival

- Jazz Fest is one of the best music festivals in North America. As well as being able to listen to all different kinds of music across 12 stages, the festival also attracts some big name international artists. A single day ticket is included in the price of your trip.
- Embark on a road trip across one of the most colourful, musical and hospitable parts of the USA: the Deep South. This diverse trip takes you through six states and the best of the region's contrasting cities, from the historic settlements of Savannah and Charleston, to the mountain town of Asheville and the musical centres of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans
- A journey through the USA wouldn’t be complete without a lesson in history. Charleston’s story is told through the former auction rooms of the Old Slave Mart and in the fields of the cotton plantations
- Experience the pinnacle of pop culture with a visit to Graceland, the iconic home of the ‘King of Rock and Roll’, Elvis Presley
- Y'all might think you don't like country music, but Nashville’s honky-tonks may well change that. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and then check out a live band in town
- Lively New Orleans is a great place to round off your trip. Discover French, Creole, Spanish and American influences in the Big Easy's architecture, food, history and music, and you won't find a cocktail more colourful than the city's signature drink, the Hurricane
ANZAC Day Dawn Service 2020

- Pay your respects to the fallen at Gallipoli a moving and educational experience regardless of your age or background.
- Reflect and pay your respects at Lone Pine and Chunk Bair
Mexico City: Day of the Dead Comfort

- Fiesta the night away in Mexico City and get into the true spirit of this haunting ceremonial festival.
- Get the low-down on all of the traditions and rituals of the Day of the Dead festival, including taking part in making your own traditional altar offering.
- Get a taste of local art with a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum in the Coyoacan neighbourhood. Check out the works in her former home, with her art often focused on the notion of death.
- Explore the historic town of Tepoztlan – a mecca for artists and mystics, with a magical feel in the air. Tour the ancient city and ruins, and climb to the top of the Tepozteco pyramid.
- All of these festivities will work up an appetite. Luckily Mexico City boasts some of Central America’s best food – from roadside taco stands to fine dining in the heart of the city, you won’t go hungry.
India's Golden Triangle - Diwali Festival

- Watch as the rooftops of Jaipur light up in dazzling colour as the fireworks of the Diwali Festival unfold
- Slip into a saree and experience the Diwali night dressed like a local. If you’re going to do it, you’ve got to do it right!
- In Karauli, you’ll be more than impressed with your new digs – a gorgeous heritage property, with dinner included of course
- The Taj Mahal may be one of the most visually striking buildings in the world, but its history is just as breathtaking. A local expert will tell you all about it.
- Sit down to a Bollywood blockbuster in one of the most stylish and legendary cinemas in all of India
American Jazz Festival Tour

- Immerse yourself in a medley of jazz, country and the blues on this musical road trip from Atlanta to New Orleans.
- Discover the rhythm of life in New Orleans during the city’s iconic Jazz Fest, a celebration of the music, culture and food that make NOLA unique.
- A small group size means dive bars and diners are on the menu, so you can get a taste of the South beyond the tourist traps.
- Get the floorboards shaking at a honky-tonk in Nashville, where locals go to stamp out the stress of the day.
- Refuel with barbecue – just remember that in the South it’s more than a style of cooking, it’s a way of life and people take it very seriously.
Classic Rajasthan - Holi Festival

- Experience the magic of Holi Festival with a royal family in Bundi – dance in clouds of coloured smoke and immerse yourself in the music and celebrations!
- Explore northern India with the luxury of a local leader on hand to give you all the insider info and ensure that you have a memorable experience of this captivating, but sometimes challenging, country.
- Watch the sunset from a rampart on Fort Madhogarh, one of our heritage hotels (and a former royal residence) that will be your accommodation while here.
- Keep your adrenaline charged with an evening tiger-spotting safari among the lakes and jungles of one of India's well-known national parks – Ranthambhore.
- Visit our local friends in their home on the border of sacred Pushkar Lake and the evocative Thar Desert. Share a meal together and gain insight into local life.
- Could any visit to India be complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal? Here's what you need to know about your visit: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/taj-mahal-travel-guide/
Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival

- Journey to Kuching, Sarawak to witness the Rainforest World Music Festival in full swing. This unique festival draws in renowned international musicians and indigenous performers of Borneo for not-to-be-missed performances.
- Spend a night in the home of one of the regular performers of the festival and learn all about the sape – an instrument used by some of Borneo’s indigenous musicians.
- Borneo offers rare treats for the nature lover – see Orangutans at the Semenggoh Sanctuary and the quirky proboscis monkeys in Bako National Park.
- Explore one of the world’s largest cave networks and witness a sunset hunting exodus of millions of bats, twisting through the sky like a plume of black smoke in Gunung Mulu National Park.
- Get a unique perspective on the rainforest of Mulu National Park during an early morning walk through the canopy, which is the longest of its kind in the world.
Halloween in Transylvania (Southbound)

- Transylvania conjures up images of haunted castles, gothic churches and vampires. Where better to spend time around Halloween than in the 12th-century town of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Count Dracula? Things are about to get medi-evil
- Break out your scariest costumes for a spooky Halloween party in Cluj Napoca, the former capital of the historical principality of Transylvania
- Protect yourself against devils and demons with a visit to the Turda Salt Mines, a fascinating museum showcasing the history of salt in the region complete with an underground amusement park
- Delve into the communist past and the thriving, artistic present-day vibe of Bucharest, a city often underrated by travellers. The grand architecture of the 1980’s Palace of the Parliament is particularly awe-inspiring
- A stopover in the traditional Saxon village of Viscri exposes you to Romanian hospitality and some finger-licking home-cooked food
Russia Expedition: Permafrost Railway & Ysyak ...

- Travel into stunning, sparsely-populated Far East Russian Siberia via two incredible feats of railway engineering – the Permafrost Express and the historic Baikal-Amur Railway – in the short window of summer.
- Explore Yakutsk, the largest city built on continuous permafrost, and wonder at the unique architecture and cultural practises born of the harsh environment.
- Celebrate the arrival of summer during the Ysyakh Festival, where the locals perform traditional Yakut sports, dance into the night and feast on local delicacies like roasted horse meat.
- Stay overnight in Ust-Buotama National Park and visit a bison nursery, hike through evergreen forest and see the towering limestone rock pillars that line the Lena River.
- Learn about various Yakut traditions on a visit to a horse farm, during lunch with a family in a small village and in tiny regional museums.
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Top Festivals & Special Events Experiences and Attractions
Top Festivals & Special Events Experiences
Joining in the party at New Orleans’ Mardi Gras or Rio’s Carnaval; will it be catching beads or sampling the samba?
Floating over New Mexico’s high desert at Albuquerque’s hot air Balloon Fiesta
Braving the firecrackers and embracing the fervor at India’s Diwali, the Festival of Light
Downing a few liters of beer (and dancing on the tables) at Munich’s boisterous Oktoberfest
Getting splattered by fresh tomatoes and then plastering others with same at Spain’s one-of-a-kind La Tomatina
Running with the bulls (if you dare) at Pamplona’s notorious San Fermin fest
Grooving to the vibes at Montreal’s Jazz Festival
Taking in the spectacle of lion dances and marching bands at San Francisco’s colorful Chinese New Year celebration
Bathing in mud at South Korea’s Boryeong Mud Festival
Absorbing the local culture at Mexico’s Cinco de Mayo or Day of the Dead festivities
Festivals & Special Events Trip Reviews
1,692 Festivals & Special Events Tour Reviews - Summary 98% Recommend
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