About Trekking
How do I find the perfect trip for myself
Bike and Trek adventure offers wide variety of trips. We put a lot of emphasis on proposing the most suitable trip and we believe that if we match the trip carefully to suite a traveler’s capabilities, half the battle is won. You need to have patience while choosing a trip. If you are a solo traveler and wish to join a group you should go to the Trip page. Trips having dates on them are suitable for people looking to join small group fixed departures. All the trips can also be run as private trips with dates of your choice if you prefer to travel in your own small group. Costs depends on the size of the group. Larger the group, lower the cost. However, we do not take more than 15 people on most of our trips. You will find the maximum group size mentioned on each trip Once you have short listed a few trips do not hesitate to contact us or send a query through the trip page and we will help you decide on the best option for you. We can also build a trip plan from scratch tailored completely for you. In that case you should visit the Customized page and fill up the query from and we get back to you with suitable ideas
What is the best time to do these trips
It is possible to travel to the Himalayas pretty much round the year, Because of the sheer size of the Himalayan mountain range we have options to travel to different corners at the different time of the year. March – June & October – November are considered to be the best times to be in the regions which lie south of the central Himalayan axis (Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Garhwal, Kumaon, Nepal) July – September is the best season to be on the northern side of the central Himalyan axis (also called Trans- Himalaya) in the region of Ladakh & Lahaul -Spiti in India December – February is time when we get the clearest skies to view the snow-laden mountains and we run trips in the lesser Himalaya or do some winter expeditions or Treks in Ladakh and Uttarakhand. This is also the time to go for snow leopard sighting trips. All our fixed departure Trips are timed keeping in mind the best time to be doing a particular trip.
I am solo (single) traveler, how can I join your tour?
Have a look at our fixed departure trips page and solo travelers can join in fixed departure trips
We are family / group of friends, can you customize a trip for us?
We would be happy to offer our expertise to tailor a trip for you on your dates of your choice. Please have a look at the Customized page on our website, share your ideas by filling the form. And we will revert back with the same options to suite your requirement.
Can I bring my 8-year-old daughter / Son with me?
We have had kids as young as 4-year-old on treks with us so you can definitely bring her/ him along. You should choose an easy trek if it is the first time you are taking her out on a trek. If you’d like to travel with your family or some other families we would be happy to customize a private child friendly trek for you.
I have never been on a trek before. Can I still come? will I be able to complete the trek?
Beginners Treks clearly mentioned in our Trek page, many Himalayan treks are open for first timers. Just ensure that you are excited about the trek and are in good shape (comfortable walking for 4-5 hours in a day). If you have above average fitness level you could even start with a Moderate trek, please check Trek grading in Trek Page. However, it would be wise discuss it with one of our Trip Leaders before booking the trip.
What is a Camping Trek?
A camping trek is a fully supported organized trek, In a camping trek a team of Guides, Trek leader cook, porters / mules will accompany you. The porters / mules carry all the gear and equipment, food, fuel personal belongings and the cook prepare nutritious and hygienic meals. You only carry what you would need while trekking. Once you reach the campsite, you are provided with separate dining, sleeping and toilet tents.
How do I know which grade of trek is suitable for me?
Have a look at the Grade explaining in Trek page. All the grades are defined in Trek Itinerary and each definition mention the level of fitness and experience required. Once you have shortlisted a trip you should also go through “What to expect” to get a better idea about what a trip entail. We understand that this could sometimes get quite confusing and it could be hard to take a decision on the basis of the information we have put up on the website. If you are facing such problem, please do not hesitate to contact us and our team will help you choose the right grade and trek for you.
Can I join a Climbing expedition without any technical knowledge?
Some peaks popularly known as trekking peaks in the Himalayas can be attempted without a lot of mountaineering knowledge. At the moment we have listed these kinds of climbs under the grade Expeditions. These kinds of climbs require some basic mountaineering skills like using Ice axe or crampons or using rope techniques for negotiating glacial terrain. All the skills required for such climbs would be imparted on the trip itself. However, you would need to have high level of physical fitness and mental strength and should be prepared to climb in extreme temperatures.
What is a typical (minimum) group size and profile?
In all fixed departure the maximum group size is 15 or less and average group size 7-8 people. Our clients come in all shapes, sizes, ages and from all walks of life. Walking on an easy to moderate trek, we would not be surprised to find an age range from 20 to 70, with a reasonable mix of male and female trekkers. Around half of our clients in a typical group will be solo trekkers with the other being couples or friends. On challenging trek and expeditions trip the average range could be from 25-60 years. Age is never a restriction on any of our adventure activities, we only look for people who are passionate and committed towards the adventure they choose to do.
What is a typical trekking day like?
A day on the trek normally begins with a morning tea after which you are expected to vacate your tent so packing can begin. After a hot breakfast, during which camp will be struck and porters given their loads. We start the day’s walk, lunch is usually had on the walk. It usually takes an hour or so and we aim to reach our overnight camp latest by 3 or 4 p.m. The support staff normally overtakes us on the trail and pitches camp before we arrive for a welcome cup of tea. This leaves plenty of time for exploring around camp and for catching up on your diary or for reading. Dinner is served in the dining tent and is a three-course meal. This is a great time of the day for relaxing and for discussing the events of the trek so far.
What do we eat? Will we get clean and safe water to drink?
On our trips, meals served are buffet style. Wholesome and delicious at camp and easy to prepare. Most adventure travel trips travel on their stomachs. We make sure they travel very well. On all our trips, water used is spring water which is boiled and then treated
What are the toilets like?
We provide you with toilet tents. These are dry pit toilets which do not require a flush system. We place a portable toilet seat above the pit for people who do not wish to squat. They are environmentally friendly and don’t pollute the water in the nearby stream.
Do you accommodate people with dietary restrictions?
We accommodate wide variety of dietary preferences and have even served Jani and nutritious food. The emphasis is on a high carbo hydrate and largely vegetarian diet. Which we have found is more easily digested in the mountains, especially at higher altitudes.
What if I get sick or injured on the trek?
The most important thing is to not panic. All our Trek Leaders are certified wilderness first aid with years of experience. They are exposed to different scenarios and illness and it is advisable to co-operate with them. They are fully stocked with medicines and first aid kit, however, as a matter of principle, we avoid giving prescription drugs. It will help for you all to carry some easy to access medicine on the trip. For headache, diarrhea, constipation and some re-hydration powders like Electral etc. It is also good idea to have a roll of toilet paper accessible should you need to go
Who is the Trek Leader and Who are the Guides?
We employ a range of dedicated and professional staff in the field too. Our Guides are from various remote and rugged regions of Himalayas and are all licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and our Trek Leaders are qualified and certified mountaineering course completed people, they have been chosen for their native experience and love for travel.
What safety precautions do you take on trips?
All our Trek Leaders are trained to foresee danger well ahead of other people are given a complete free hand to alter the Itineraries keeping the overall safety of the group in mind. It’s the trek leaders job to consistently brief/warn the group on what to expect which we have seen in most cases any chance of any accident due to a participant’s negligence. The entire group travels like a tight knit unit and with large group we keep the ends covered with a lead Trek Leader and sweep guide. At no instance throughout the trek (unless it’s a bio-break or someone taking pictures etc.) We would let any participant stray off ahead of the lead Guide or behind the sweep guide. The two guides would be in constant touch with other on walkie talkie radio sets.
What rescue equipment do you use on high altitude treks?
All our high altitude Treks we carry a Gamow Bag, Oxygen cylinders, Oximeters, survival blankets, altitude sickness related medicines and stretcher In case of an altitude emergency the patient is made to descend as quickly as possible. When immediate descent is difficult due to hazards of weather, lack of manpower, light condition, difficult terrain or geography PAC come in handy Satellite phones are still restricted in India so we use Walkie talkie to connect with Base camp and to the closest army post.
Do you have some emergency preparedness plan for trip run in remote areas?
On all our trips we stay in contact with our office and Base camp. Ongoing to the remote locations, the local administration plan is formed by the trek Leader depending on the location and kind of resources available to him, the safety of the victim and the whole group is always the prime concern. Once a plan is formed a message is sent to the office activate from their end. Normally the victim (accompanied by a guide) is transported to the nearest road and from there to the closest hospital. One of the kitchen staff/ guides is rushed down to the road ahead of the victim so we have the transport ready by the time the victim arrives at the road. In a worst case scenario, the office could request the administration for a Heli-evacuation.
Where do I find Cost of the trip?
Trip prices for all fixed departures are mentioned in Trek page and Itinerary. Trip which are not scheduled don’t have a price on them. These trips can be run as private trips where pricing depends on the no of people in the group. Once we have an e mail query from you, we send the prices along with the other details of the trip. For custom made trip we first work out a plan based on your requirements, there is normally a bit of a back and forth at this stage as the emphasis is on creating the plan to the perfection. Once the trip plan is locked we work out the cost and share it with you on an e mail.
What is included in the cost of the trip?
All our Treks are run on full board basis which means the cost includes all your meals, accommodation, transport, permits, if any services of the Guides, cook and his assistants and the porterage of your personal equipment and the common group equipment’s. These might vary a bit from trip to trip so it’s recommended that you read the cost inclusions & exclusions on the details on the webpage
What is not included in the cost of the trip?
Normally things like cost of Visas, air ticket, Vaccination, Insurance, tips for porters, guides & other staff, drinks with meals, hotel refreshments, laundry, telephone calls, souvenirs, meals other than those specified in the relevant trip docket, Personal clothing and equipment, any cost arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides, road condition, evacuation etc. are not included in the trip cost. Please refer the web page for more details
How do I book a trip?
We put a lot of emphasis on selecting the right trip for customers based on their experience and fitness levels. Its good to take a bit of time at the selection stage. Once a trip has been selected and you confirm to join it we send you a confirmation mail and hold the spot for you. All bookings are done through the website. The confirmation mail has all the trip related information as well as the steps that will guide you to book the trip via the website. You are required to register yourself on the website (one-time process) and make the payment to reserve your spot.
How do I make the payment?
We accept payments as follows Credit Cards / Debit Cards / UPI Apps/ Bank transfer/ Through your Bank website
Invoices and booking confirmation
Once you have paid the deposit for your tour, our team will immediately email your booking confirmation and invoice. When you received your confirmation, please check the information carefully to make sure that we have booked the arrangements you requested. If there are any inaccuracies please contact us so that we can make the necessary corrections.
What if I need to cancel my trip?
The general cancellation policy of a trip is available on it’s webpage. Once you confirm your participation on a trip you will receive a confirmation mail, which will have all the information about the trip including the cancellation policy. If it becomes necessary to cancel your trip, you must immediately notify our office by an email. Once we receive your notice, cancellation will take effect as per terms of cancellation policy
What kind of gear do I need to bring for my trip?
When you confirm your participation on a trip you receive a confirmation mail which has all the trip related information including a gear list. We expect you to bring all the items as mentioned on the gear list.
What is the best way to carry my luggage?
Duffel bag: Big, strong, water proof and large enough to carry everything you need. On trips it is transported by porters or pack animals Day Pack: Which you carry with you while trekking. This should be large enough to carry your camera, water bottles, water proof jacket and fleece jumper and whatever else you might need for a particular day’s trek. For most trekking trips a 30-40-liter daypack is large enough Rucksack: On mountaineering expeditions all climbers are expected to carry all their gear above base camp, Rucksack should be large enough to carry all your gear, clothing and sleeping bag. Small bag: A small bag (any type) is handy to leave a fresh change of clothes and some other extra items at the hotels before we leave for the trek/ expedition We advise that you read the equipment list carefully for more information on baggage limits, recommended sizes of these bags and equipment required for your chosen trip.
What are the individual baggage allowances during the trek / expedition?
Different treks have different baggage allowances depending on the duration of the trip. For short trip it could be as little as 10kg and on some long treks and expedition it could be as much as 25kg. Please refer the confirmation mail to find out about the exact baggage allowance.
Will there be power to charge camera’s?
Normally there is power only for the first couple of days of our travel when we stay in hotels/guest houses. In most mountain areas electrical power is not always guaranteed. Very often on our treks we are days away from civilization where there is no phone connectivity and also no power sources. Depending on the type of camera you have, we suggest you take a spare battery for long treks. On climbing expeditions longer than two weeks we provide solar chargers at base camps. On trek, you can minimize battery use by not viewing photos and by switching the camera off as much as possible. Having a compact solar charger and power bank is good way to have power for your devices.
Will there be network coverage for our Mobile phones?
Whenever during trek, we are close to civilization there are chances that you might get phone network with / without data. These networks are not very reliable and you should not plan on doing any important communication once you set off for a trek.
What additional cost can I expect when I travel with you?
As mentioned above cost exclusion tips for porters, guides and other staff, bar bills, drinks with meals, hotel refreshments, laundry, telephone calls, souvenirs etc. are not part of the trip cost and you should budget on carrying some cash with you on the trip for these kinds of expenses.
Purchasing travel Insurance
It is essential condition of joining with Bike and Trek Adventure trip that you have an adequate and valid travel insurance policy for the full duration of your trip to cover the cost of medical treatment, cancellation and curtailment and the activities included in our tours (Including the high-altitude treks)
Training guides and fitness
For our trips, we are often asked “what kind of fitness levels are required”? Of course, if you have booked a trip that is at the upper end of your capabilities, you want to know that you have done all you can to prepare. Unfortunately, these questions are often the most difficult to answer. Only you know your current fitness levels and capabilities and can prepare according to the options available to you. When altitude is involved, your ability to acclimatize is going to have a much greater impact on your progress than your fitness. However, poor fitness and preparation is not going to increase your chances. In an effort to help you reach your active adventure goals, we’ve produced helpful Fitness Guides to help prepare for your trip It is always best to make your preparation as close to the real thing as possible. Of course, it’s tough to replicate the major mountain ranges around the world, but make sure you include ups and downs if you are preparing for a mountain trek. If you are still unsure about your fitness, or the difficulty of the trek or ride, we suggest you refer again to our grading system or talk it through with one of our experts.
Do I need to get the medical certificate approved by a Doctor?
Yes, there are two sections in the medical certificate. The first part must be filled by a practicing doctor. The second part must be filled by you. Without the medical certificate, the forest department will not issue permission for your trek. It is also a requirement by Bike and Trek Adventure. The medical certificate records all your vital readings. This helps the trek leader understanding your health better. Especially on Himalayan trek, health vitals play a very important role.
About Voluntourism
Do I carry my own backpack?
You can either carry your own backpack or you can use a porter / Mule to carry it. If you don’t want to carry your big backpack, you can bring a small backpack to take your essential things while trekking.
Will I get altitude sickness?
Natin village (7400 ft) and the highest trekking point Dayara Bugyal (12100 ft) there is very less chances getting sickness in this altitude, as you walk from your base area Natin to final summit, you will get acclimatized. And our experienced and certified team will accompany you through your trek and after two weeks in the mountains you can climb 12100 ft without any problem.
What specific things do I need to bring?
Good trekking shoes is a must. There are no roads there and you will walk everywhere you go. You must also bring a warm jacket as evenings and mornings are always cold. You can also bring first aid medicines, dry fruits, chocolates and vitamin supplements, the whole region is crime free. So, you can bring your laptop and use it there. You can even buy a sim card in Rishikesh and use the internet there. India is a conservative country with numerous sacred worshipping places where tight and revealing clothes wouldn’t be allowed. Being a state on the lap of Himalayas, the temperature is usually on the colder side, and we would recommend you to get woollen wears and jackets, pack comfortable clothes
Are there any ATM/Banks there?
The nearest ATM is 25 km from the guest house
Do I need extra money?
This is entirely on you- we provide all meals throughout your stay with us. But there are few local tea houses and food joints in villages, if you like to eat outside once in a while you can explore the areas, the food considering the remoteness of this place is excellent, and not expensive. and also, weekends are free if you like to explore nearby places you can take a tour. Your program fee does not covers your personal expenses. You will need to provide for yourself your personal expenses, such as local transport, bottled water, telephone, shopping, sightseeing etc.…
What happens if I get sick?
Our experienced leaders will help you in any emergency condition and they will be with your team 24/7. The coordinator, who is a qualified mountain trek leader of the local region will guide you and he will know what to do if you have any problems.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes, BTA will provide you with the certificate after successful completion of your program.
What will be my usual working hours?
Volunteers usually work for 4-6 hours a day; however, it can vary depending on their program. You will have the weekend off so you can go and travel on weekends.
How safe is India and Natin in general?
India is a country of diverse culture and practices. Like in any new foreign country, participants are advised to follow the guidelines specified by the project coordinator to enjoy their Indian experience fully. The program coordinators are always ready to help and give helpful safety tips. During the first day of the orientation, you will be given guidelines and will be informed about do’s and don'ts.
Would I have free time during my program? Can I do sight-seeing during my program?
Depending on your project placement, you will get evenings and weekends free to travel and explore the places.
What if I do not speak the local language? Would that interfere with my volunteering experience?
Do not worry, all the coordinators can speak and converse in English. Most of our participants are non-Hindi speakers and they’ve never had any problem while communicating. Like we say love is expressed better through actions than the language
How long will it take to process my application? Will my application be accepted?
Usually, it takes around 10-12 working days for the application to be processed and placement to be confirmed. After we review your CV and documents, your booking is confirmed and the booking confirmation is updated in your account (we create a log in facility) and you can view the information in your account. The application acceptance depends on the availability of seats in the project as well as the eligibility criteria of the program (age, skills and experience etc.…)
I have not travelled or volunteered abroad before. Can I still be a part of the BTA volunteering project?
Yes, most definitely you can as we believe every participant brings something new to the projects. If you do not have previous experience, we offer you the opportunity to have a great start with us. We make international volunteering easy- not only are our volunteer abroad opportunities rooted in offering you extensive support but they also very affordable.
Will I be covered by some insurance during the stay?
No, Volunteering in India does not provide any kind of travel or Medical insurance to its volunteers. You can buy it online from here. You are advised to purchase travel insurance before you leave your home country.
Can I come with a friend, my family or in a group?
Yes, Volunteering with BTA you are welcome to join our program with a friend, family or in a group. We offer a special discounted fee for family and group bookings and also offer customized itinerary according to the need of the group.
Where do I obtain the Visa for my trip?
Receiving an appropriate visa for volunteering is the volunteers’ responsibility. Volunteering in India strongly recommends all volunteers to apply and get an appropriate visa before departing for India. Please check with the local Indian embassy in your country for more details. If needed Bike and Trek Adventure does provide with written documents which would help volunteers in getting the visa. Travelers from eligible countries can apply for an Indian tourist visa online. The India e-tourist visa can be obtained from home, with no need to go to an embassy or consulate to complete the request.
HOW DO WE APPLY FOR INDIAN VISA?
Indian VISA can be applied directly online via https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html
What about my laundry?
All volunteers are responsible for washing their own clothes. Volunteers can also give your clothes to the nearby laundry when they are in a city at their own expense.
Do you pre-screen your students?
BTA is not an open-enrolment program. To ensure a mutually good fit, new participants fill out admission forms, including a participant’s questionnaire, parent questionnaire and health history. New participants must also provide a character from school or university Just as we encourage parents to do their due diligence when choosing a program, we also do our best to thoroughly screen our families to create the best possible peer groups and get to know our families before our student’s arrival for the program
What exactly is BTA?
Think of BTA as a step up of adventure provider cum Voluntourism organizer. While we still focus on having a ton of fun within an inclusive community. Participants take on leadership roles and collaborate to ensure both individual and group success. We have specific base camp, we travel in 15 passenger vans to the base camp to start all sort of new activities led by caring, experienced and enthusiastic outdoor leaders. We treat our students as the young adults they are and give them as much as responsibility as is practical to help them grow. Our participants have a real voice in their community and help guide the community and experience along with their instructors. While we spend all of our time outside and camp in tents throughout the trip, we aren’t a hardcore wilderness program. Our priorities include building community, helping teens gains and improve 21st century skills and having fun in a tech-free environment and we do it all in the beautiful Himalayas.
Should my child bring a friend?
Inclusive communities are what we are known for and the majority of our new participants come without a friend. In order to preserve the unique nature of our program and in the interest of inclusivity. We limit the number of new students who have a pre-existing relationship, whether from home, school, university or otherwise to no more than two to three on any program (depending on the size of the group) Students who arrive together as friends from home will not spend every activity together in order to allow them the opportunity to branch out, make new friends and help avoid mutually exclusive relationship. We believe (and our parents and participants will agree) that making new friends has powerful benefits!
What kind of staff do you hire?
We have a staff consist of professional outdoor educators, certified mountaineering Trek Leaders, Porters and Mules, High altitude chef and Program coordinators. Our staff truly care about and invest in our participants personal growth and development. BTA is very proud of its instructor teams! Before our trips start our instructors go through an extensive two to three-week orientation and training specific to BTA program. We have a high staff return rate all of our instructors are mountaineering and wilderness first respond certified. And everyone has previous experience working with young adults in the outdoors.
Are Himalayan outdoor trip are safe?
The physical and emotional safety of our participants and instructors is our number one priority. We make every decision regarding your child as if you were looking over our shoulder, but please understand that nothing is 100% safe. To build independence and ensure normal teenage development, we practice taking reasonable and appropriate risks, while doing everything possible to minimize and mitigate those risks
Will the participants be out of cell service the entire time?
We usually have cell phone service only in Base camp. Himalayan camping refers to remote campsite, ones you can usually only reach by foot. When out of cell phone service, our team are able to communicate with Base camp through Walkie-talkie devices.
Can you accommodate special food preference participants?
We can easily accommodate all kind of food preference participants, you should inform our coordinator well in advance about the preference.
What is included the participants package?
BTA will provide tents, sleeping bag, mattress, sleeping liner, Porters and Mules to carry luggage, 3-time meals and snacks, drinking water, Round trip travelling. Once the participant enrol we will send complete list of things to carry.
What are the other participants like?
The teenagers who come to BTA program are kind, welcoming eager to learn and hail from all over the world. We pre-screen our participants and get to know our families, so our groups are full of positive young adults that will work well with each other. BTA places a strong emphasis on group dynamics an creating a supportive social environment
What kind of shape do I to be in?
Because we will be engaged in different outdoor activities throughout each trip, our participants should be physically fit to attend BTA program. We know physical fitness looks different for everyone, but it’s important to come prepared so that you and your fellow participants can succeed. One participant not coming prepared with physical fitness can negatively impact the entire group. In the months leading up to your trip, we recommend participating in physical activity at least a few times a week if you don’t already. This might be hiking, jogging, running, biking, playing soccer or basketball or anything else that helps your cardiovascular fitness.
What if I don’t know anyone else?
Most of the students come to BTA not knowing anyone before their trip. You will begin to make friends as soon as you arrive at the camp. By the time trip is over, you won’t want to leave your new community most of our students remain friends after their summer ends.
What if I don’t have any outdoor experience?
That’s OK! Most of our first-time students don’t have experience in most of the outdoor activities that we do. Our Instructors work closely to teach you the skills that you will need. By the end of the trip you will be a pro at setting up camp, cooking, voluntary work, and more if you do have some experience our instructors will be happy to help you improve your existing skills.
Do we sleep in Tents every night?
You will be camping in tents during the mountains at base camp in Guest house and in city Hotels, you will be surprised at how well you sleep. You will be with one other participant of the same identifying gender in a three-person tent accommodate 2 people.
You will be able to shower in base camp?
in high altitude in mountains taking shower is not possible because of the cold temperature. We know this might sound intimidating but don’t worry, you will always be able to wash your hands and face regardless of our location, and many of our participants bring travel body wipes. We also spend a lot of time around water streams, so you will be able to rinse off. We do laundry once we back to Base camp.
What do I need to bring?
BTA provides everything you need for the activities on your trip. Including Sleeping Bag, sleeping liner, Tent, technical gear there is no rental fee for the equipment’s. But you should carry back pack, day pack, toiletries, personal clothes, medicine kit, Trekking Boot etc. Once your booking confirmed with us we will be sharing the packing list to you well in advance, each trip has a specific and comprehensive packing list for you to follow.
Will I get to use my cell phone?
At BTA, our participants have an unbelievable amount of fun-all without the use of their cell phones! We unplug from technology so that we can connect with our natural surroundings and each other and build strong. Inclusive and kind communities and we promise that you won’t even miss your phone.
About Cycling
I’m not a good cyclist. Can I join your tour?
Yes of course- As an entity run by passionate bike enthusiasts, we want more and more people to start using bikes for everything from riding to work to enjoying leisurely expeditions. That’s why our expeditions are designed to allow the general public to enjoy the tour. We will be riding at a comfortable pace, for your convenience. Our tours are graded to give you an indication of the fitness level required. If you’re looking for something more adrenaline pumped, you can take part in our Bicycle Tours.
Do you cycle in the hot season?
Cycling can be enjoyed in most weather conditions, including summers. Our tour operators will slightly change the schedule so that you can escape the blaring afternoon sun. We will include more water stops and cater to your requirements to make the tour a fulfilling one for you.
When is the best time to book a tour?
Generally, the sooner the better, especially with Bike Tours and particularly when travelling with a group tours can be fill up quickly.
Who runs the Tours?
We do, unlike some companies with middlemen, and sales agents, we do it all. We dream up the tours, research the routes, collect data and the length of the journey, share the beautiful experience with clients, and then run the tours with a combination of our experienced year-round staff, service providers and local staff in the countries the tour travels through
Do you cycle in the rainy season?
Yes, cycling in rainy seasons is quite comfortable. Our team will provide you with a poncho so that you can stay warm and dry throughout the ride. We will also equip all bikes with mudguards so that you don’t have a problem riding over any terrain. However, if the rain is causing poor visibility, we will stop for breaks or organize a backup till the situation is clear.
I have a restricted diet. Will you be able to provide specific meals for me?
We take extreme pleasure in making you feel at home. If you have certain dietary restrictions or allergies, please let us know while booking so that we can make culinary arrangements for you.
Will I have time to enjoy some of the interesting places along the route?
Absolutely, The tours have been designed to enable riders to explore some of the important places in the route. And since an average biking day will be five to seven hours, there will often be plenty of time to explore the local places on riding days as well
Will you be able to customize a tour?
If you’re a group or individual looking for something more adventurous and exhilarating, we can customize the tour for you. Speak to one of our friendly executive for more information.
Do you allow e bikes on your tours?
The answer to this question is dependent on which tour you are considering. Typically the answer is “YES”. How ever please check with our executives before booking your tour.
Should I tip and how much?
In general, tipping in cycling touring in all countries has become a custom. How much you should give is totally up to you, the amount available with you and your subjective opinion about the services you come across.
What other expenses will I likely have before and during the tour?
•Flight to and from the tour •Bicycle, Spare parts, gear & accessories that you buy •Travel health Insurance •Vaccination •Personal electronic, medical supplies and any other personal need •Entry Visas (Where applicable) •Souvenirs (Optional) •Tips for staff (optional) •Alcoholic beverages
What do you mean by back up?
Our BTA support van drives along our Biking route to offer light refreshments, water bottle refills and rides to those would like them when they get tired. Support vehicle loaded with luggage, extra Bike and bike parts and our refreshments.
Do I need travel, Health and Medical Insurance ?
You must insure yourself, your bicycle and your belongings in order to join our tours. We will ask for your insurance policy details at the time of final payment. The crew are not medically trained but at least on member on all Tours has current First Aid and CPR qualifications. We will have basic First Aid supplies but it is your responsibility to bring any medications. Chemists will be available at the villages are pass through along the way. Medical clinics will be accessible in some towns and we will help as best able. You must also have travel insurance policy that protects both you, your belongings and your bicycle. You must consider the implications of an accident during your vacation and take these responsibilities seriously. Details of your policy must provide to us at the time of payment. Bicycles can often be added as an extra on most conventional policies
Is it Safe?
The answer is YES, but as with any travel there is certain level of risk that everyone need to accept. It is important to respect the local culture and people and to observe the law while travelling. Your greatest problem is motorized vehicles, as it is for cyclists everywhere, so practising defensive and wearing appropriate safety/ visibility gear is essential.
What if I get sick or injured?
Our support vehicle can carry a limited number of riders and bikes. If you are sick or injured and can not ride for a day or two you have the option to ride in our vehicles. At times, we have medic on our tours in more remote places where access to emergency services are limited. Medics are there to help with minor scrapes and bruises, and to assist in the event of an emergency.
What’s a typical day like?
The day begins at breakfast at hotel. During the breakfast we detail the route (Details of the day riding, tourist high lights etc.) and our tour leader explain the details. After breakfast you put your luggage in our vehicle. You are now ready to hit the road with your Bike. Tour Leader will lead the group and the asst. Tour leader will follow with the last person. You ride your own pace and you can stop when you like to take photos, find a café for a coffee. Once you reach the hotel we have evening tea at our hotel- a delicious and nutritious selection of regional produce. People tend to relax in your room or go for a swim, explore the destination village etc. Dinner is either a group meal or a free night (as per the itinerary). Group meals are at carefully selected restaurants showcasing the best of the region. After dinner tend to head to bed.
Is there a mechanic? What happens if I have a breakdown?
In all our tours, we have our own cycle mechanic that join the tour. Our cycle mechanic is around to offer any mechanical assistance that you may need. In the event that you have a major breakdown, we will try and keep you on the road by visiting local bike shops trying to find whatever parts are necessary. Where practical should you breakdown on the road, the mechanic will usually be along to help you out. As a last resort there will be always a extra bike in support vehicle.
Why are your prices are in Euro?
In general, the currency shown on each tour page corresponds with the accepted currency in the country/ countries where the tour takes place (with few exceptions) we buy the majority of our tours in Euros and it is simply cost-effective for you and for us. In this way, the price you see remains fixed. Only the exchange rete changes. We suggest using an online currency converter to estimate your cost
Tell me more about Tour pricing.
All prices are per person based on double room occupancy. Single booking will incur a supplement. Please inform yourself in regards to what is included and not included in your tour package
What is the best way to Pay?
We now accept payment in Euros. Our EU clients can pay directly to our European account in Euros without any wire fees. Those from Australia, New Zealand and several other destinations can also pay in their own currency in to our European account using a transfer service. If you prefer to use a credit card, do note that we can only charge in US Dollars and a 4% surcharge will apply.
How do you determine my Bike size?
When you are ready to submit reservation, you will be asked to provide your height so that our local outfitters can determine your correct size. If there is any additional information you feel will be helpful in determining the best fit, feel free to add that in the comment section of the reservation form. We advise that when you are assigned your bike or when you pick up your bike, that you check it over thoroughly, take a test ride to ensure everything is working properly. That all included accessories are indeed accounted for, and everything is up to youe standards before starting the tour
Are Helmets included with Bike Rentals?
The answer is yes. Your own helmet is best for many reasons. It fits, It’s clean and you are accustomed to it.