Transformative Tours & Trips 2020
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DEPARTURE DATES
Style
Style
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Retreats Similar to a self guided tour but staying in one location only with activities and day outings included as a part of the stay.
Price
Duration Dropdown
Travelers Age
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.
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.
Theme
Attractions & Cities Visited
Activities & Interests
Travel Style
Travel Style
Flexible schedule A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Full schedule 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.
Balanced schedule You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Flight & Transport Inclusions
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)
Countries Visited
Continents Visited
Rivers & Seas Visitied
Stride Gives Back Stride Gives Back This trip visits a destination impacted by climate change. When you opt in to the Travelstride Gives Back program, we will donate 10% of our net revenue to organizations that help mitigate climate change in these destinations and across the globe. Learn more
Highlights of Morocco

- Wander through ancient medinas and roman ruins
- Ride a camel into the sahara
- Spend a night in a mountain gîte
- Enjoy traditional moroccan fare at a local home
- Shop in seaside essaouira
- Set eyes on the blue city of chefchaouen
North China Getaway

- China is a land of contrasts. From soaking up the bright city lights of Shanghai’s waterfront to exploring the unearthed Terracotta Warriors outside of Xi’an, you’ll get to see it all for yourself!
- Spend two nights at the base of the Great Wall in a locally run guesthouse, and follow in the footsteps of soldiers from hundreds of years ago when you trek the lesser-visited Gubeikou to Jinshanling section.
- This adventure offers plenty of opportunity to get active among the wonders of China. Explore city laneways on walking tours, climb the steps of the Yellow Mountain, trek the Great Wall and cycle countryside lanes in Hongcun.
- Two overnight trains means you'll maximise your time in each destination, get to know your fellow travellers over a game of mahjong, and have a real sense of the vast size of the country.
- We’re all about authentic experiences, so go local every step of the way with an experienced local leader, public transport, and family-run guesthouses and lodgings wherever possible.
South India Revealed

- Golden beaches and age-old fishing villages make Goa one of India’s most popular retreats – and a perfect place to consider extending your southern India adventure.
- Take the atmosphere of Shimla or Darjeeling, add lush tropical jungle and you have the Western Ghats: a hotspot of thundering waterfalls, tea plantations, spice markets, and echoes of a colonial past.
- Glide through the backwaters of Kerala on a pole boat, going ashore for a village homestay – a beautiful break from hotels and a perfect way to get close to local customs and culture.
- Cross into Kochi – a colonial centre and major port city in India’s southwest. Explore the seaside Fort Kochi area and consider watching a traditional Kathakali dance performance in your free time.
- Paddle by canoe to your guesthouse in the temple town of Hampi to enjoy a special stay on the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
China Highlights

- This is our most popular trip in China and one of the top trips from the entire Intrepid range. The trip may be quick, but it is packed full of experiences that will give you a great insight into China in a short time.
- In addition to the main highlights in the big cities of Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai, you'll get a glimpse of small-town life in Xitang and a taste of the countryside when we stay near the Great Wall.
- Our small group size allows us to explore destinations on foot together, eat in authentic local restaurants, travel by subway and train, and escape the tourist traps - all under the expert guidance of a passionate local leader.
- Spend the night in a charming, family-run guesthouse near the Great Wall. Learn how to make dumplings for dinner and see this iconic structure without the masses.
- Stay overnight in Xitang, a water town just outside of Shanghai. Imagine a way of life lost long ago as you explore the narrow alleys and canals after the daytrippers go home.
- Like everything it does, China’s ancient history is on an epic scale. No matter how many guide books you have read, nothing truly prepares you for the grandeur and immensity of sights like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square and the Terracotta Army (or thousands of local tourists at the Forbidden City!).
China Experience

- This is one of our most comprehensive trips in China, covering huge distances and taking in key destinations from north to south with plenty of variety in experiences and sights along the way
- Zip through the country from north to south on its efficient high-speed rail network.
- Take through the iconic scenery of the Yangzi River as you meander through the dramatic Three Gorges on a three-day cruise
- No matter how many guide books you have read, nothing truly prepares you for the grandeur and immensity of historic sights like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Leshan Big Buddha and the Terracotta Army. However, the country's modern man-made sights refuse to be outdone, and you can see the modern equivalence of those ancient feats in the skyline of Hong Kong and the Yangzi River's Three Gorges Hydroelectric dam
- Get up close to giant pandas in Chengdu and learn about the preservation work required for this ancient species.
- Beyond adorable, endangered giant pandas, Chengdu is one of our favourite cities in China. Find out why our travellers end up falling in love with this emerging travel hotspot here: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/chengdu-china-travel-guide
- Escape the cities to discover China's natural beauty. Trek up the misty forests of Emei Shan for a stay in a monastery, waking to the sound of drums and prayers in the morning Buddhist ritual.
- Cycle through the Chinese countryside with backdrops that resemble paintings – the picturesque limestone karsts of Yangshuo, for example, grace the walls of conference rooms and Chinese embassy's around the world
Japan Express

- From the ultra-modern to ancient traditions, this express adventure will introduce you to some of the many faces of Japan in a short amount of time.
- Visit the little town of Nikko – packed with World Heritage-listed temples and picture-perfect hiking trails, and one of the best backdrops for a soak in a steaming onsen.
- Eat your way from Tokyo to Kyoto with plenty of chances to try all kinds of delicious street food, sake, snacks and surprises – from a hearty bowl of ramen to world-class sashimi.
- Even getting from place to place is fun in Japan! Ride the renowned Shinkansen bullet train and make use of public transport day passes to get to and from the activities you choose.
- With a local leader to show you around, a new group of friends to explore with and plenty of free time for discovery, you’re guaranteed to get the most out of Japan’s wondrous sights.
Iconic India

- Rajasthan is the India that many people imagine when they dream of travelling to this captivating country – ancient forts, palaces, rural villages and the colourful cities of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaipur.
- Pushkar and Varanasi are among the holiest cities in India. Climb to hilltop temples at sunrise, dodge cows in the street, and observe pilgrims praying along the ghats of the sacred Ganges River during a boat cruise.
- Explore the wonders of the Thar Desert. Feast on Rajasthani cuisine at sunset before bunking down to camp between the sand dunes.
- Glide through the backwaters of Kerala on a pole boat, going ashore for a village homestay – a beautiful break and a perfect way to get close to local customs and culture.
- The word ‘colourful’ gets thrown around a lot when people talk about India, but the gateway towers of Meenakshi Amman Temple truly are a technicolour dream.
Tibet: Beijing to Kathmandu Overland

- Like everything else it does, China’s ancient history is on a grand scale – see it first-hand, with time to explore and walk the epic Great Wall’s Mutianyu section.
- Sit back and relax on one of the world’s greatest train journeys – a marathon 45-hour ride to the literal Roof of the World, passing by incredibly mountainous and remote terrain, and the occasional grazing yak!
- Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture, from the spiritual side – explored on monastery visits, pilgrim trails and a monk-led meditation session – to traditional daily life, experienced at a momo-making class and Tibetan family home.
- Climb phenomenal mountain passes and thrilling peaks on your scenic overland journey to see the mightiest of them all – Mt Everest – and visit the world’s highest monastery on your way!
- Relax in lovely Thankot after an epic journey in Tibet and enjoy a short hike to Indradaha, admiring the snowy peaks of Langtang, Ganesha and Manaslu.
Wild Mongolia

- Mongolia is a far-out destination, but you'll be in excellent hands. Your experienced drivers, manning sturdy Russian vans fit to tackle the rugged environment, will take you on a ride to some of the most fascinating places in the country
- Whether by camel or on foot, experience Mongolia's incredible landscapes, from the rolling dunes just outside of Karakorum to the volcanic craters of the Great White Lake among the mountains
- Two family ger camps allow you to experience nomadic life from the inside – a rare and rewarding cultural experience to remember
- Situated in the valley of the Delger River, the Tsenkher Hot Springs offer the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long journey on the road
Greek Island Escape
- Discover the gorgeous Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini
- Explore Athens
- Opportunity to see UNESCO-listed Acropolis to admire its glorious temples, including the double gatehouse of the Propylaea
- See the Aegean Sea and savor views of the windmill-dotted island as you approach
- Experience the famous Santorini sunset
Thailand to Cambodia 11 Days 9 Nights
- Explore Beijing
- Visit the Temple of the Golden Buddha (Wat Trimitr) to see its solid-gold Buddha
- Damnoen Saduak, one of Thailand’s most famous floating markets
- Visit the Bridge over the River Kwai, famously connected to the 'Death Railway' of World War II
- Experience the virtual ‘Theme Park - Dark Ride’ at a gems gallery, learning about Thailand’s most prized gemstones
- Opportunity to see UNESCO Angkor Wat, the jewel in Cambodia’s historical and cultural crown
Japan Highlights 9 Days 7 Nights
- Explore Kyoto
- Explore Mount Fuji, enjoy the bird’s eye view of the nearby Odawara and Lake Ashi scenic region via the aerial tram Komagadake Ropeway
- Discover Japanese history and art at a museum, or indulge in some retail therapy at Tokyo's cutting edge stores
- Explore the lines of stalls selling different Japanese-styled goods and souvenirs
Majestic China & Yangtze River
- A cruise along the dramatic landscapes of the majestic Yangtze River highlights this journey through China´s “Golden Triangle Cities"
- Visit the Great Wall, which is one of the man-built architectures that can be seen from the low orbit of the earth.
- Visit to Tiananmen Square, the world-famous and historic Tiananmen Square, or “Gate of Heavenly Peace”. Located in the heart of Beijing
- Visit one of the three towns (depending on local river conditions): Shibaozhai, Fengdu, or Wanzhou.Shibaozhai's main attraction is a majestic 12-story tall wooden pagoda, built 400 years ago without use of a single nail.
- Spend the day free or take the tour to witness the famous "Terra Cotta Warriors."
- Visit the Shanghai Museum and view the exhibits of ancient Chinese art. Designed by a local Shanghai Architect
Japan Discovery 8 Days 6 Nights
- Discover Tokyo
- Awesome journey to Mt Fuji, Japan's highest and most revered mountain
- Experience Kyoto, Japan's cultural heart
- Visit Osaka to visit Osaka Castle, an ancient Shitennjo-Ji Temple with spectacular views over Japan's second largest city
- Visit the famous Tsukiji Fish Market is the biggest wholesale fish
Bangkok & Koh Samui 10 Days 8 Nights
- Enjoy the scenic tour of Koh Samui’s highlights
- Discover Bangkok
- Enjoy visiting to Damnoen Saduak, one of Thailand’s most famous floating markets
- Visit the Temple of the Golden Buddha (Wat Trimitr) to see its solid-gold Buddha, and peek inside the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)
- Visit the Elephant World Sanctuary for rescued elephants. Admire, feed and help bathe these incredible animals
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Top Transformative Attractions & Experiences
Top Transformative Experiences
Exploring remote villages in Asia, meeting locals and learning about their approach to daily life
Helping a clean-up crew improve the beaches in Costa Rica, making them safer for the sea turtles that nest there
Spending a day helping build a school and distribute supplies
Going deeper into a yoga practice with help and guidance from a teacher in India
The feeling of personal fulfillment that comes with going deeper into any destination - participating in and learning about the nuances of local life
Top Transformative Attractions
1,549 Transformative Tour Reviews - Summary 98% Recommend
All Transformative tours, river cruises, expedition cruises, and adventure trips. Find the best guided trips and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Average rating of 4.7 for all Transformative trips.
52 trips from 222 tour companies with 1,549 reviews
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