Rarefied Yellowstone National Park
Destination
United States
Duration
7
Activity Level
Active
Comfort Level
Deluxe
Enjoy an intimate exploration of Yellowstone in all its winter glory, when the frosty wildlife and striking snow-covered landscapes paint a magical picture. Winter is a great time to visit the park, as it is far less crowded with visitors, offers a more spacious and leisurely atmosphere to explore this exquisite ecosystem. The park’s famous geysers continue to spout undisrupted throughout the winter, offering a spectacular display against a snowy backdrop for those intrepid enough to view them. Wildlife watching in the winter can be particularly stunning as the animals roam to lower areas in the valley to protect themselves against the cold in the higher altitudes. They become more concentrated and easier to see amongst the bright snow.
For this Rare Journey, you will explore the north of Yellowstone National Park in-depth with naturalist Paul Brown. You will enjoy and search for all wildlife, but focus on the grey wolf in particular, which was reintroduced to the park in 1995. The park has at least 99 wolves living in 10 packs, making it an optimal place to see these animals. This focus on the wolves of the park will also elicit a conversation about the conservation of the region’s – and the nation’s – wildlife, and how both professionals and all citizens play a role in protecting the fragile species around us.
This trip is sure to be rich in wildlife and thought, with incredible leadership and excellent photography opportunities.
Your trip guide and naturalist, Paul Brown, grew up with a fascination for birds in his backyard and beyond. After graduating from Ramapo College with a degree in environmental studies, Paul worked for the U.S. Forest Service and New Jersey Audubon. He relocated to Jackson Hole in the spring of 2001. Paul has committed himself to the conservation of the region’s lands through education. He has led programs for top universities, zoos, and conservation organizations. In addition to his 19 years of environmental education programming, he has served as faculty for the Teton Science Schools and worked on several research projects in the area, including studying the wolf population of Yellowstone National Park with the Yellowstone Wolf Project. In his free time, Paul continues to enjoy exploring the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Great For
- Wildlife encounters
- Dramatic natural scenery
- Avoiding the crowds
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Montana
Welcome to Bozeman, Montana! As you arrive in this charming town nestled at the foothills of the Rockies, you’ll be greeted by your knowledgeable naturalist guide, Paul, who will be your companion throughout this journey.
Enjoy a scenic drive toward Yellowstone National Park, one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States. Your route will take you through the breathtaking Paradise Valley, renowned for its stunning landscapes and panoramic vistas. As you travel, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in the serene beauty of the snowy rolling hills and meandering rivers that define this picturesque region.
You’ll arrive in Gardiner, Montana, the northern gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a warm welcome dinner and a chance to relax after your journey. Your guide will provide an informative orientation, giving you an overview of the exciting adventures ahead and sharing insights about the park’s unique geological features, diverse wildlife, and rich history.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as you prepare to explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park in winter.
Meals
Dinner
Lodging
406 Lodge
Day 2 Wolves & Wildlife
Rise early to set out on one of the central activities of this exhilarating adventure: searching for the elusive grey wolf. Reintroduced to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in 1995, the grey wolf has made a remarkable comeback and has become one of the most captivating creatures in the Northern Yellowstone Range. Paul’s experience supporting the reintroduction has given him deep knowledge to share with you about wolves’ ways of life. With a bit of luck and keen observation, you may witness these magnificent predators in their natural habitat, hunting or playing amidst the snowy landscapes.
Your morning will be spent exploring the Lamar Valley, a pristine and expansive area often celebrated as the Serengeti of North America due to its incredible wildlife diversity and dramatic scenery. As you traverse this stunning valley, keep your eyes peeled for other fascinating wildlife species that winter here, including bison, elk, and possibly even the elusive lynx. The Lamar Valley is renowned for its vibrant ecosystem, and you’ll have ample opportunities to observe and photograph these incredible animals in their winter environment.
After a morning of wildlife viewing, you’ll return to enjoy a hearty lunch, fueling up for the next adventure. In the afternoon, we will gear up for a snowshoeing excursion through the winter wonderland of Yellowstone National Park. Snowshoeing offers a unique way to experience the park’s serene beauty, allowing you to traverse snowy trails and explore areas that might be inaccessible on foot. This is a very moderate to low-paced activity but allows the opportunity to get up close to the winter landscape.
As the day winds down, head back to your cozy accommodations, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, indulging in a hot beverage or delicious meal, or simply relaxing and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of your surroundings.
Choose from a selection of local eateries for dinner on your own this evening.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
406 Lodge
Day 3 Wolves & Wildlife
Prepare for another full day of thrilling wildlife viewing in the northern landscapes of Yellowstone National Park. As the first light of dawn breaks over the snow-covered terrain, set out to scout the multitude of local animals in their natural habitat. While the grey wolf remains the star of your quest, keep your eyes open for a diverse array of other species. Watch for the mighty bison, whose massive forms are particularly striking against the wintry backdrop. Coyotes may be seen trotting through the snow or hunting for prey, their keen senses finely tuned for survival. The dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain of Yellowstone’s Northern Range might also reveal the presence of big horn sheep, whose impressive horns are a sight to behold. Moose, with their large, distinctive antlers, might be spotted in the snow-draped willows or near water sources, adding to the park’s remarkable wildlife spectacle. Paul will teach you about the relationships among these animals, and how their interdependence allows them to survive in this demanding environment.
After a day of exploration and adventure, return to Gardiner, Montana. Dinner at a local eatery.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
406 Lodge
Day 4 Yellowstone's Interior
Today promises an extraordinary adventure as you venture into the heart of Yellowstone National Park’s winter wonderland aboard a private snowcoach. In the winter months, Yellowstone’s interior is transformed into a snowy paradise that is accessible exclusively by over-snow vehicles specially designed for winter travel through the park, ensuring a unique and immersive experience.
As you make your way deeper into Yellowstone, you’ll be surrounded by snow-covered trees and sparkling frost, creating a magical winter scene. Paul will explain the park’s winter ecology and history, enhancing your appreciation of this remarkable environment.
Prepare to be awed by one of nature’s most spectacular and recognizable phenomena, Old Faithful. Renowned for its reliable and impressive eruptions, Old Faithful will showcase its power and beauty against a backdrop of snow-covered landscapes. Explore the surrounding geyser basin, where a network of hot springs, fumaroles, and geysers create a textured landscape of steaming water and colorful mineral deposits.
The geothermal features not only offer stunning visuals but also provide a refuge for wildlife and microscopic creatures (i.e. thermophilic bacteria). As you explore, you might encounter bison and other animals that frequent the area, drawn to the warmth of the geysers and hot springs. Their presence adds a dynamic element to the already breathtaking scenery.
In the evening, you’ll check into the Old Faithful Snow Lodge. Nestled in the heart of the park, this lodge offers a secluded retreat. After settling in, enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge. Then, as night falls, embark on a stargazing walk. Far removed from the city lights, the night sky over Yellowstone reveals a breathtaking display of stars. Your guide will help you identify constellations and share fascinating stories about the night sky, making this an unforgettable evening experience.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Old Faithful Snow Lodge
Day 5 Yellowstone's Interior
On Day 5, you’ll explore the geyser basin in the early morning light. The Yellowstone Geyser Basin is a mesmerizing landscape of steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and iconic erupting geysers. This geothermal wonderland offers a glimpse into the powerful forces beneath the Earth’s crust, creating an otherworldly environment, particularly when viewed amidst a snow-covered landscape.
Return to the lodge for a warm lunch. In the afternoon, get out and explore Yellowstone’s interior on snowshoes. Then, return in the late afternoon to the lodge for a fireside chat to learn more about the natural history of wolves in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Old Faithful Snow Lodge
Day 6 Mammoth Hot Springs
Board the snow coach again this morning for Mammoth Hot Springs, famous for its beautiful terraces. The brightly colored deposits formed by minerals and colored by thermophiles (micro-organisms that thrive in hot water) stand out against the white of the surrounding snow, offering a picturesque, steaming vista. The constantly evolving landscape is shaped by the deposition of travertine, a form of limestone, as the water cools and releases carbon dioxide. This unique geothermal feature offers a vivid display of Yellowstone’s dynamic geological activity. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boardwalks of this sprawling site.
Enjoy lunch before returning north through Montana’s Paradise Valley to your trip’s starting point. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for elk, pronghorn, raptors, and more.
Arrive in Bozeman in the late afternoon, where you will enjoy a warm farewell dinner with your fellow travelers and guide.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
The LARK Bozeman
Day 7 Depart
Say farewell to the snowy wonderscape of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, and transfer to the Bozeman airport this morning for your flight home.
Meals
Breakfast
Dates & Price
Dates
This unique opportunity is offered on these dates, and may not be repeated.
- Jan 10-16, 2026
Best Time of Year to Visit
Enjoy an intimate exploration of Yellowstone in all its winter glory, when the frosty wildlife and striking snow-covered landscapes paint a magical picture. Winter is a great time to visit the park, as it is far less crowded with visitors, offers a more spacious and leisurely atmosphere to explore this exquisite ecosystem. The park’s famous geysers continue to spout undisrupted throughout the winter, offering a spectacular display against a snowy backdrop for those intrepid enough to view them. Wildlife watching in the winter can be particularly stunning as the animals roam to lower areas in the valley to protect themselves against the cold in the higher altitudes. They become more concentrated and easier to see amongst the bright snow.
For this Rare Journey, you will explore the north of Yellowstone National Park in-depth with naturalist Paul Brown. You will enjoy and search for all wildlife, but focus on the grey wolf in particular, which was reintroduced to the park in 1995. The park has at least 99 wolves living in 10 packs, making it an optimal place to see these animals. This focus on the wolves of the park will also elicit a conversation about the conservation of the region’s – and the nation’s – wildlife, and how both professionals and all citizens play a role in protecting the fragile species around us.
This trip is sure to be rich in wildlife and thought, with incredible leadership and excellent photography opportunities.
Your trip guide and naturalist, Paul Brown, grew up with a fascination for birds in his backyard and beyond. After graduating from Ramapo College with a degree in environmental studies, Paul worked for the U.S. Forest Service and New Jersey Audubon. He relocated to Jackson Hole in the spring of 2001. Paul has committed himself to the conservation of the region’s lands through education. He has led programs for top universities, zoos, and conservation organizations. In addition to his 19 years of environmental education programming, he has served as faculty for the Teton Science Schools and worked on several research projects in the area, including studying the wolf population of Yellowstone National Park with the Yellowstone Wolf Project. In his free time, Paul continues to enjoy exploring the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Rates Per Person
Need to Know
Rates Per Person - 2026 Departure
Cost Per Person Group Size 5-7
$9195
Single Supplement
$1575
Rates Per Person - 2026 Departure
Need to Know
We are happy to have you participate in a Journeys International program!
Please read these terms and conditions thoroughly. They contain information that will be important to your planning and guide how we will handle any circumstances that may change in the midst of planning or while a program is underway. If after reading our materials and talking with our staff you decide to participate in a Journeys International program, please send us your deposit along with your completed Reservation Form and Explorer Information Forms. Important: Your booking is only complete once we receive your deposit, completed Reservation Form, and completed Explorer Information Form, and once we have confirmed that space is available.
Pricing and Payment
We will confirm your reservations once we receive a non-refundable booking deposit, a Reservation Form signed by each person responsible for payment, and an Explorer Information Form signed by each participating adult or the guardian for each participating child, and if space is available. Custom programs during holiday seasons may require a deposit prior to confirmation. The deposit contributes to non-recoverable costs of holding space and servicing your booking through the stages of preparation, execution, and follow-up and cannot be refunded if you choose to cancel.
We charge an additional planning fee of $250 per program for preparing customized proposals. This fee may be credited to your total cost upon booking, but it is non-refundable if you choose not to finalize your reservation.
Prices are stated in U.S. Dollars, based on double room occupancy, unless otherwise noted. We will send an invoice for your total estimated cost when we send your reservation confirmation. The balance as shown on your invoice is due 60 days prior to your program start date regardless of whether any arrangements are still pending. Although we do our best to avoid increasing prices after we receive your deposit, in some cases it may be necessary to adjust pricing after we receive payment to allow for changes in group size, rooming status, currency exchange rate fluctuations, fuel surcharges and/or other circumstances attendant to the challenges of adventure.
Late payments may jeopardize confirmation of your program participation and in some cases may result in additional fees. If we have not received final payment 30 days prior to departure, then your reservation may be canceled subject to our Cancellation & Refund Policy stated below.
Payment for airfare is required at the time of ticketing. Discounts that may be available are not available toward bookings made through third-party travel agencies, advisors, or planners.
We accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or check drawn on a U.S. bank account. Paying by credit card offers you certain consumer protections, including the ability to initiate a chargeback if you believe we have committed consumer fraud. You may not use credit card chargeback as an alternative to compliance with your agreement with these terms and conditions.
Late Signups
Early reservations are encouraged! Some programs and flights fill several months in advance. We can confirm your space once we receive your deposit and signed Reservation and Explorer Information Forms. We try, but cannot guarantee, to accept late signups. In the event that we are able to accept reservations fewer than 60 days before a program’s start date, additional fees may apply to cover administrative costs necessary to expedite your reservation confirmation and transmit your program materials. For reservations made fewer than 60 days in advance of your program’s start, full payment is due at the time of booking.
Program Changes
We understand that circumstances arise that lead you to inquire about changes to your custom program, and we aim to satisfy your requests. Once activities and accommodations have been confirmed, we charge a $50 change fee, in addition to the difference in costs for the services booked. When changes are requested less than one week before your program’s start, the change fee is $100. For changes requested after a program has begun, the change fee is $200.
Journeys International reserves the right to change or reprice any program due to acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control. Journeys International cannot guarantee conformity with the provided program plan at any point in time. Among other things, if necessary Journeys International may change the scheduled dates of a program; omit or alter sections of the plan; substitute lodgings, leaders, or conveyances; or change meals, activities, or waypoints; all without notice and without allowance for refunds and with participants bearing the responsibility for increased costs, if any. Should this become necessary, Journeys International will not be liable for extra costs that participants may incur as a result of changes, including but not limited to flight change fees, additional meal costs, or additional accommodations. We strongly recommend that participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, adequate to cover such costs.
Cancellations & Refunds
If you must cancel before your program begins, please notify Journeys International in writing by emailing info@journeysinternational.com or writing to your adventure specialist directly. You may request a refund according to the following schedule. Some programs require additional non-refundable payments beyond this schedule, as noted in the program description. In the case of cancellation, such amounts are withheld in addition to the amounts listed here.
Days Prior to Departure | Cancellation Penalty |
---|---|
61 or more | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable |
31-60 | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable, plus 50% of total land costs above amount of initial deposit |
0-30 | 100% of total land costs |
Please note: cancellation of airfare, other transit, lodging, and ticketed tours and activities is subject to the policies of the individual carriers or providers and is not included in the schedule above. Additional cancellation fees are the responsibility of the traveler. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, that includes coverage for trip cancellation or interruption and that may reimburse you for cancellation penalties and extra expenses should a circumstance force you to cancel or interrupt your participation.
Departure is defined as the date on which travelers will leave their home state, province or city, or the program start date as indicated on the program description, whichever comes first. Cancellation date will be considered the date that we receive written notification of your intent to cancel according to the local time observed in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Payments due at the time of cancellation remain the responsibility of the participant. No partial refunds are possible for unused hotel rooms, air or land travel, program days, or other sight-seeing arrangements included in the land cost.
If Journeys International cancels or postpones a program before the program starts for reasons completely within its discretion, such as but not limited to insufficient group size, all money for services described in the program description will be refunded in the form of credit towards a future program with Journeys in the same location originally planned, less unrecoverable fees and penalties already paid to airlines, accommodations, or other service providers, or the client may submit a written request for a refund to the original form of payment. If a program’s cancellation is necessary due to acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control, credits and refunds will be issued according to the standard cancellation schedule, less unrecoverable fees and penalties already paid to airlines, accommodations, or other service providers, without regard to whether client or company initiates cancellation or postponement. Once a program begins, there are no refunds for unused goods or services.
Air Fares
We can help you to secure air travel arrangements for Journeys International programs. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. Journeys International and/or the airfare consolidator may charge a ticketing fee for this service. For group programs, if you prefer to fly on dates other than those listed as program dates, or if you arrive at your destination other than at the group arrival time, then you may incur additional fees to cover the separate transfer, contingency, and coordination costs which frequently arise from arrival and departure on flights different from our regular bookings. We will let you know about these fees ahead of time, if they apply. If you must change your air routing after ticketing, there is a charge of $50 per change, in addition to change or cancellation charges levied by the airline.
If you decide to make your own flight arrangements, you must provide Journeys International with a complete copy of your itinerary showing departure and arrival flights and times. You should plan to arrange your own air travel if you are using mileage credit or originating outside North America, but please be in touch with our office before you finalize ticketing so that we may help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times. If you arrange your own flights, we can book ground transfers to meet you on arrival in your destination if you wish, and you agree to pay additional costs, as applicable.
Transfers Between Programs
You may transfer between some programs upon written request. More than 60 days before your program start date, the deposit transfer fee is $100 per person plus any cancellation fees charged by airlines, hotels, or ground service providers. 60 days or fewer before the program start date, full cancellation penalties from the original program apply. In the event that Journeys International cancels a program, you may transfer the full amount of your payments to another program without penalty, subject to availability.
Expenses Covered
Normally, our stated total costs include the costs of all guides, leaders, facilities, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, costs of described activities, food as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the activities described in the itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but factors beyond our control might require us to change our prices without prior notice, even after you have signed up.
Expenses Not Covered
Costs not included in the price may include: meals not indicated as included in program descriptions; meals prior to arrival in starting cities; transfers, if not arriving or departing on the scheduled group flights; soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages; medical expenses, costs of hospitalization, or evacuation from remote areas; laundry; airport departure taxes not included on your airline ticket; accommodations en route to starting cities; visas; airfares; gratuities; and insurance.
If a program must be modified due to medical emergency, acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control, then the participant may incur additional costs that are not included in the program price. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, to cover these risks.
Travel Insurance
Journeys International strongly recommends that you purchase a Travel Protection Plan, or travel insurance, sufficient to protect your investment in travel, personal assets and health during your program. Doing so will mitigate a significant amount of financial risk and decrease your need to worry about things beyond your control. We do not require you to purchase such travel insurance; however, we know many travelers who have benefited from purchasing travel insurance because the insurance carrier assumed risks that would otherwise have been the risk of the traveler. Travel Protection Plans often cover things like theft, baggage loss, trip interruption or cancellation, emergency evacuation, emergency medical treatment, flight delay or cancellation, airline or service provider bankruptcy, jury duty, personal or family sickness leading to cancellation, U.S. Department of State Travel Warnings about terrorism issued for the destination, and other risks as described in the insurance policy. In particular, consider the availability of higher-cost “Cancel for Any Reason” and/or “Interrupt for Any Reason” policies that may allow policy-holders to recoup a significant portion of trip costs under a much wider range of circumstances than standard policies may allow; we have seen travelers benefit from this selection when public health crises, personal turmoil, and civil unrest arose in their destinations. Please note that while we at Journeys will do our best to help you to have a pleasant and successful experience, Journeys International assumes no liability for many of the types of losses described above. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance and you suffer a loss, then you will be responsible for the associated costs.
For your convenience, we will provide a recommendation for an insurance carrier that offers competitive rates and has proven reliable, fair, and prompt in responding to claims, but we can offer no guarantee that our recommended carrier will meet your needs and you are welcome to contact any insurance carrier that you prefer. It is important to obtain insurance immediately upon signing up for your program in order for problems arising from pre-existing conditions to be covered.
All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy that covers you while in your travel destination for the duration of your trip. For some individuals or for some destinations, it may be advisable to purchase a supplemental policy. Contact your provider for coverage details.
Group-Sized Pricing & Group Minimums
Many programs are guaranteed to depart at prices published on our website with as few as two participants. In some cases, it may become necessary to increase prices depending on the size of the group. We do everything we can to make a program operate as planned even with a single participant. Additional costs for small groups vary from program to program. When pricing for a group program is based on the number of participants, staff and guests of Journeys International (such as topic experts, journalists, photographers, leaders-in-training, or others) are not included in the numbers counted to determine the price. Final decision to cancel a program due to insufficient signups is made at least 60 days prior to departure.
Lodging Accommodations
Lodging accommodations are usually double occupancy in hotel rooms, tents, or other facilities as described in trip itineraries. Please contact our office to discuss pricing and availability of alternative accommodations, if desired. We try to honor specific requests for lodging, but in some cases, we may have to book and confirm equivalent-standard accommodations. In rare cases it may become necessary to make same-day or out-of-class substitutions.
If you are joining alone for a group program but would prefer a roommate, then let us know! We are often able to match solo participants. If a roommate is not available or if you prefer single accommodation, then you must pay the Single Supplement, if one applies. For some programs it is not possible to guarantee single accommodations.
Assumption of Risk
Throughout any program of Journeys International, certain risks and dangers may arise. These include, but are not limited to, travel by train, foot, automobile, aircraft, raft, boat or other means of conveyance; the hazards of traveling in rough or mountainous terrain; high altitude; undeveloped areas; the forces of nature; civil unrest; terrorism; labor interruption; close proximity to fellow program participants; exposure to illness or virus; and accident or illness in remote areas without means of rapid evacuations or availability of medical supplies and facilities. The unique nature of adventure programs entails inherent risks that may be involved in unique program activities and travel away from home and, in fact, the specific nature of these activities is often a reason for participation. Even if a trip or program is rated “easy” these dangers and risks are present. Journeys International and its agents and operators will have no liability regarding emotional distress, equipment, access to, or adequacy of medical care, evacuation plans, or emergency supplies that may be provided. When you sign the Explorer Information Form, you agree to participate in these activities with full knowledge of the dangers and risks involved and agree to assume all risks, including trauma, sickness, injury, and death.
While Journeys International intends that your experience be safe and comfortable, Journeys does not have legal or operational control or ownership of facilities, staff, services, or transportation providers and acts only as agent for the owners of such facilities, staff, services, and transportation. Journeys International is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act by any such person or entity, nor for any act or inaction of any third party not under its control.
In consideration of the right to participate in Journeys International programs and the service arranged for you by Journeys International and its agents and representatives, you unconditionally and fully assume all risks of bodily injury, death, emotional trauma, property damage, and/or theft, however caused, including those mentioned above, as a result of participation, and release Journeys International, its agents, and its representatives from any and all liability, actions, causes of actions, suits, debts, demands that you may have, including for bodily injury, death, or property damage, loss of income, and other claims.
Fitness to Join
Good physical and mental health are essential for the enjoyment of Journeys International’s programs. It is your responsibility to select/design a trip appropriate to your own abilities and interests. You are responsible for being in sufficiently good health to undertake your trip, and for consulting with your physician for medical advice regarding travel. On some Journeys International programs, participants travel in rugged areas remote from modern medical facilities. Good physical conditioning is recommended as preparation for all programs, especially those involving hiking or trekking. Most programs require some walking. By signing the Explorer Information Form, participants certify that they are fit for rigorous activity and do not have any physical, mental, or other condition that would create a hazard for him/herself or other participants. It is essential that any participant with a medical condition requiring regular treatment or which may be affected by vigorous activity, prolonged travel, high altitude, heat, cold, natural phenomena, or particular foods, notify Journeys International in writing prior to booking. We assume no responsibility for medical care, and we cannot guarantee meeting special dietary requirements or vegetarian needs. Participants may be required to furnish a physician’s statement of good health for some programs.
Journeys International’s or the individual group leader’s or guide’s judgment shall provide the ultimate determination of an individual’s fitness to embark upon, or to continue, a program. Journeys International reserves the right to refuse reservations or deny participation to anyone whom it deems unsuitable for a program or certain activities. Once a reservation has been confirmed, medical circumstances will not be considered as exceptions to our cancellation policy. All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy for the duration of their participation. Proof of such coverage may be required.
Personal Conduct
You are responsible for acting in a manner considerate and respectful of fellow group members and local culture in areas visited.
You are responsible for reading all health-related information provided in advance of the program, adhering to all guidance given by guides and site staff, and conforming to the established standards of personal hygiene to minimize risk of disease. This may include a requirement to wear a face mask when in proximity to other people, whether indoors or outdoors, or other measures intended to limit the spread of disease; failure to do so when requested may result in your dismissal from the program.
Certain activities included in your program may require specific safety precautions. You are responsible for listening to instructions, adhering to guidance, and following the protocols provided for safety throughout the program. If you are unsure about safety precautions, you are responsible for seeking advice. If guides or staff perceive your behavior as risky, uncooperative, or otherwise unsafe, they may remove you from an activity for the safety of yourself and others.
Smoking or vaping are not permitted in buses, cars, below decks on boats, in tented camps, in designated non-smoking areas, or during guided tours and activities. Participants agree not to consume cannabis for the duration of the program and understand that possession or use of cannabis may be illegal and subject to severe punishment in some destinations. Participants agree to follow all local laws in the jurisdiction(s) where the program takes place and acknowledge that Journeys International cannot be responsible for ensuring participants’ compliance nor for any costs or consequences of non-compliance.
Sexual harassment or misconduct of any sort by Journeys program participants is not tolerated. You may not make jokes or sexually suggestive comments or gestures regarding the bodies or bodily activities of fellow participants, program staff, site staff, or any people you encounter during your program. You may not touch fellow participants, program staff, site staff, or any people you encounter during your program unless invited. You may not solicit sexual services during the dates of your participation in a Journeys program.
Environmental Stewardship
Journeys International believes that we have a responsibility to protect the earth for future generations. Tourism may be responsible for up to eight percent of annual worldwide emissions of greenhouse gasses. Journeys International advocates that adventure travelers who make environmentally conscious choices when selecting their destinations and activities should also make the environmentally conscious choice to offset the carbon footprint of their travel to compensate for their personal contributions to global climate change. Every Journeys International invoice includes an optional donation to the Earth Preservation Fund’s carbon offset program to be used to purchase and permanently retire certified carbon credits to offset the carbon footprints of Journeys’ program participants. The Earth Preservation Fund purchases carbon credits that have been certified under a reliable third-party standard. Participants who choose to make this donation may also be eligible to claim a tax deduction. There is no penalty for opting out of this donation.
Recording
Journeys International may take photographic, audiographic, and videographic recordings during your program, and may use your image and voice for promotional and commercial use without compensation.
Planning & Preparation Services
We look forward to working with you! After we receive your deposit, we will send you a planning packet containing things like medical and immunization information, visa and other permit forms, a recommendation for travel insurance, packing checklist, reading list, cross-cultural information, and an initial invoice for the balance due. About 3 weeks before your program begins, we will send you a final notes packet including last-minute reminders and contact information for your program. You are responsible for reading all information provided, and for bringing all clothing and equipment noted on the packing list. If you are leaving home before the scheduled trip departure date, please let us know how we can best reach you in case any details change in the days immediately prior to your program’s start.
Please call our office at any time if you have questions about your trip or for additional information.
Duration 7
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. This is the time period covered by the land cost.
Comfort Level
Deluxe
Activity Level
Active
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.
Comfort Level
Choose accommodations and amenities that fit your personal style
Simple
Our most natural accommodations. Bath facilities often shared, sometimes rustic.
Delightful
Comfortable and especially personal. Small to mid-sized lodges, typically with private bath.
Superior
Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined artistry, or extra-special settings.
Deluxe
Exclusive or luxury lodges, hotels, or safari camps with fine dining options.
Uncommon
The most indulgent accommodations arranged specially for private trips.