FAQs
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Flexi is valid for all destinations and trips that we offer.
If passengers want to book different fares, they must make a separate reservation for each traveler. To share a room, both travelers should choose the option “half double room”. Our Travel Specialists will make sure that passengers are assigned a room together after the reservation is made.
Changing fares is possible with an unconfirmed reservation. We cannot change fares for confirmed reservations.
Bookings in a different class, even if with the same airline or standard group flights (both outbound and inbound), are not eligible for Flexi fare and must be booked as Classic.
Yes, other activities or excursions can be added to the itinerary in the flexi fare.
Yes, other activities or excursions can be added to the itinerary in the Flexi fare as well as Classic fare after booking.
We will happily process a rebooking against the price of the FLEXI fee.
We will happily process a rebooking against the price of the FLEXi fee. In addition, we will charge an additional flat EUR 100 fee per PAX for rebooking the local/regional flights for excursions.
Whether passengers booked in the Classic fare or the Flexi fare, we will reimburse the full amount of the down payment if we can’t reach the minimum number of people for the trip to go ahead.
Yes, we gladly accept reservations in the Flexi fare if no international flights are needed.
Upon launch in the UK in early 2026, your trip will be protected by the DRSF. DRSF stands for Deutscher Reisesicherungsfonds (German Travel Security Fund). As a Ventura TRAVEL customer, your payments are protected by DRSF, ensuring your money is safe and you are covered in the unlikely event of insolvency. You will receive a security certificate with your booking for your peace of mind.
To give additional comfort to UK travellers, we aim to be ATOL & ABTA protected by the second quarter of 2026 but the DRSF protection is sufficient under the 2018 UK Package Travel Regulations and has been reviewed and confirmed by our UK legal representatives.
You can book directly on our website or by contacting our UK team. We accept major credit cards and bank transfers. Payment plans may be available for some trips.
Our add-ons are not hidden costs. Even without booking an add-on, you'll have a full trip including all the activities described. Rather, the add-ons give you the opportunity to participate in additional, individual activities.
Add-on before the trip: For some trips, we offer an organized, individual program in advance of the group tour. You can find all the details about our pre-trip add-ons in the tour itinerary. Click on the green box for each add-on.
Add-on during the trip: We also frequently offer add-ons during the trip. These are often alternatives to the standard programme and offer you the opportunity to customize your itinerary. Some add-ons are marked "on-site." These cannot be booked or paid for through Viventura or during the booking process. For these modules, we simply inform you that you have the option to add them on-site.
Extensions: Many of our trips can also be extended individually. Either to explore other regions of the country you're visiting, or to spend the last few days relaxing at a beach destination.
An overview of all add-ons that can be booked in advance can be found before and after the tour itinerary description.
For solo travellers, Viventura offers the free option of "double occupancy." With this option, we try to find a roommate to share the double room with approximately 4-6 weeks before departure. If we are unable to find someone, we offer you a single room at half the price. Please note that this option is not available for modular tours, and single rooms are provided for these.
For last-minute bookings and in the case of the last available space on the trip, we can only confirm the free "double occupancy" option if a suitable roommate has already registered. Otherwise, we will charge the full single room price.
If you would like a single room, this can be added for an additional fee. You can find the single room supplement on the Dates & Prices page.
Our trips often take us to destinations off the beaten track. It is therefore possible that some accommodations may not have enough single or double rooms depending on occupancy and group size, meaning that some participants may have to stay in shared rooms. These accommodations will be noted accordingly in the tour itinerary.
Due to limited capacity, booking the Inca Trail is only possible with early registration (3-5 months in advance, depending on the season). If there are only a few or no places left on the Inca Trail, your travel consultant will inform you. The hike is booked using the traveler's valid passport number.
The hike on the Inca Trail requires a good level of fitness, as the altitude (up to 4,100 m) is noticeable. For many tours, the day hike on the Inca Trail is a fixed component of the itinerary (usually on Explorer tours), or it may be bookable as a module (often on Comfort tours).
The 4-day Inca Trail trek is physically demanding and requires a very good level of fitness, but no special hiking experience is necessary. The main challenge lies in repeatedly ascending and descending the numerous steps – sure-footedness is therefore essential. For this reason, we generally advise against both Inca Trail versions for individuals with knee problems. The altitude (high-altitude air) is also a factor to consider during the 4-day hike. The ascent to the first pass climbs from 2,000 m to over 4,000 m in a relatively short time. This is followed by a descent of 1,500 m. After the second pass at 3,500 m, the terrain becomes easier.
Vegetarian meals can be arranged for you! Please indicate your preference in the comments section when booking if you require vegetarian meals.
Please note that cancellations of the Inca Trail will incur additional costs charged to us by the authorities.
When including flights, we typically offer London Heathrow as the standard departure airport. Most tours also include additional airports across the UK (excluding Northern Ireland). These are listed on the Dates & Prices page under "Departure Airport & Airport Fees." For other departure airports, please contact our customer service representatives directly.
Absolutely! Many of our guests travel solo. We offer the option to share a room with another solo traveller or book a single room for an additional fee.
Most of our tours include private transportation which avoids the issue of carrying your luggage long distances. A suitcase is generally fine yet varies with personal preference and destinations. Please keep in mind that during your journey we will be traveling to a new city very frequently so try to pack only necessities to keep your luggage light for easier travel. Also it would be wise to pack a small backpack to carry small items with you during our day trips.
Bringing a sleeping bag is not strictly necessary. However, if you are sensitive to the cold, you should consider bringing one for your trip during the European summer months, as the nights can be very frosty and, for example, the basic family accommodations at Lake Titicaca do not have heating.
All trip itineraries come with a list of "Excluded Costs," this will give you an estimate of how much money to bring on your own. Additionally, in our experience, travelers spend about $150- $200 per week for meals on our trips. This amount will vary depending on the included meals, and also personal spending on souvenirs. We recommend you bring some money in cash as well as a debit card for making withdrawls in the local currency at ATM's.
It is highly recommended that all passengers are covered with travel insurance before they embark on their trip. We recommend that you take out cancellation insurance to insure in case an unexpected illness, accident or other obligation occurs. A repatriation insurance is highly recommended as well in case problems arise during your trip and need to return home immediately.
For your trip, only one main piece of luggage per person with a maximum weight of 20kg is permitted, plus one carry-on bag weighing approximately 8-10 kg.
We recommend travelling with a trekking backpack, a duffel bag (with wheels), or a soft-sided suitcase. We advise against hard-shell suitcases for transport reasons, as soft bags or backpacks are easier to pack and less prone to damage. You will need a daypack for day trips.
Our itineraries indicate if your luggage needs to be repacked for part of your trip. In this case, you will need an additional suitable piece of luggage. A packing list will be sent with your invoice and can also be found in the FAQs for each trip.
Unfortunately, a 10kg carry-on bag is not included on domestic flights with LATAM airline. Instead, you may only carry one personal item, such as a small handbag or a compact backpack that fits under the seat. If you have a larger backpack, it's best to pack it in your checked baggage.
Note: While most long-haul flights allow 23 kg of checked baggage, some domestic flights only permit 20 kg.
The following illnesses are the most common during your trip:
Diarrheal diseases: This is probably the most common illness and could affect anyone. Tip: Pay attention to what you eat and drink plenty of water (not tap water, of course!). Especially at the beginning of your trip, be careful with ice cream, raw vegetables, fruit, and salads. In emergencies, Imodium or similar medications are very helpful, especially if you have a bus trip or flight coming up. This should definitely be in your luggage!
Stomach aches/cramps: Unfamiliar food and altitude can cause stomach aches or cramps. Antispasmodics or calming drops or tablets usually provide quick relief.
Altitude sickness: True altitude sickness, as often described in travel guides or online, is very rare. However, symptoms that can occur include mild headaches, severe fatigue, occasional mild nausea, and dizziness. It's best to buy medication for this locally. Resting, going downhill, or enjoying a delicious coca tea usually helps. As a preventative measure, it's advisable to rest on the first day after arriving at this altitude, avoid alcohol, and eat only light meals. Adequate fluid intake of at least two to three liters per day is also very important.
Heat exhaustion: Dehydration or salt deficiency can lead to heat exhaustion, manifesting as fatigue, headaches, and occasionally mild nausea and dizziness. It's best to drink plenty of fluids (water or isotonic drinks) and avoid direct sunlight.
Cold/Flu: Colds are relatively common due to the low temperatures! Tip: Dress warmly in the highlands.
+++ We recommend carrying essential medications in your hand luggage. +++
The Andean region enjoys spring-like weather year-round, with slightly more rain from late October to late March and a drier period from April to October. This also applies to Machu Picchu. During the summer months (European winter), daytime temperatures range between 20°C and 25°C, but it gets cooler the higher you climb. Evenings and nights are also somewhat cooler, with temperatures between 0°C and 15°C.
We have compiled a detailed packing list for the Inca Trail Packing List. Further information on the best time to travel to Peru can be found on our dedicated page.
Here is a simple list of clothes you should pack. This list is only a recommendation of what we suggest you bring, however it is your final discretion.
Soft suitcase or large backpack or travel bag on wheels
Small backpack for day excursions
Waterproof jacket or poncho against the rain (can also buy locally)
Windbreaker
Thick sweater (Andes & Patagonia) + light sweater
T-shirts
Long pants
Shorts
Socks and Underwear
Hiking shoes
Comfortable shoes
Sandals
Swimwear - (for coastal areas, thermal baths, or swimming pools)
List of useful items
Towel- Petite Microfiber (light and dries quickly)
Sunglasses
Small flashlight
Digital Camera or even Waterproof Camera (for Galapagos)
Binoculars, glasses with protective neck band
Travel alarm, games, playing cards, books, travel pillow …
Notepad to keep a daily journal
By region:
• Andean Region & Patagonia: Even during the day it can be cold, because of the altitude and possible wind. It is advisable to include a jacket and one or more warm sweaters for the evening, a windbreaker, hat, and scarf are perfect items to keep out the wind along with rain gear. A simple list of clothes to go! It is to be adapted to suit your needs!
• Jungle: Light clothing is appropriate, but long pants and long sleeve shirts are useful against mosquitoes. Do not forget swimsuits and towels, as dips in the water are very important.
• Coast and Galapagos: Summer clothing and / or normal spring wear is needed. A sweatshirt can be useful in the evening. Swimsuit, cap / hat, sunglasses, and above all a sunscreen/ sunblock with a high SPF that protects against UVA and UVB rays is essential in Ecuador.
We recommend bringing a debit card and/or, ideally, a credit card, plus some cash in reserve (£150-200 per person). You can use the card to pay in many restaurants and larger shops, and conveniently withdraw cash in the local currency from ATMs. Cash can be exchanged at exchange bureaus or banks (your tour guide will be familiar with these).
If you happen to have any USD (e.g., from previous trips), you are welcome to bring it along, especially since the USD is still more widely accepted than the Euro. Locally, the currency is usually Peruvian Soles, and for trips to Bolivia and/or Chile, Bolivian Bolivianos and/or Chilean Pesos.
We've put together a detailed packing list for you and it will be sent via email a few weeks before your trip.
Please remember to bring your own small first-aid kit, as Viventura tour guides are not permitted to dispense medication to tour participants and only carry bandages and dressings.
In addition to the booking confirmation after your binding registration, we will send you your Viventura travel documents approximately two weeks before departure. These include a packing list, the tour itinerary, many other travel-related details.
If you booked flights with us, you will also receive your flight overview with booking codes (e-ticket). Your flight tickets are electronic and will only be issued to you at the airport upon presentation of your passport at the check-in counter.
If you're flying independently, you can book the pick-up service or transfer to your hotel for an additional fee.
If you've booked your flights with us, we'll be waiting for you at the airport after you land in South America, holding a Viventura sign. Your adventure can begin right away. If you don't see your pick-up service immediately, please wait and do not leave the airport on your own.
Central heating is not standard in most South American hotels. A few hotels offer the option of ordering an electric heater in your room. It is generally recommended to bring warm clothing, as temperatures in the higher elevations of the Andes can drop below freezing in the evenings and/or mornings.
Rest assured, you can enjoy your trip comfortably. We recommend, as always, with extreme heights, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol in excess. Be sure to drink lots of water and fresh fruit juices to keep your body hydrated.
The entry of all goods or animal products is subject to prosecution. It is forbidden to take meat, fruit, honey, cheese or seeds … The customs authorities are very strict about this. A single apple can cost 200 USD fine!
Especially with souvenirs that are replicas of archaeological finds, such as typical clay pots or figurines, you should definitely keep your receipt with the souvenir to avoid arousing suspicion that you are trying to export cultural artifacts. In case of doubt, customs has the right to detain you until experts have assessed the item, even if this means you miss your flight.
Contingencies (delay of plane / train, failures, etc …) are always possible … and likely a "part" of any trip to South America. Due to the relative instability of the region it also happens that there are strikes. Different groups, like farmers, transportation companies, and/or teachers try and attract attention to their problems. These strikes are usually in a peaceful manner, however it happens, but rarely, that there are extreme instances. When this type of strike takes place, entire sections of roads are blocked, so it is impossible to get to specific destinations.
Our knowledgeable guides will first assess the extent of the problem and depending on the severity, make appropriate adjustments. However when any problem arises, the main Viventura office will be notified. We will do everything in our capacity to make sure the rest of your trip runs smoother and more efficiently.
Colombia has many different climates. When traveling in Colombia, the climate varies depending on the region you are in and the season. Tierra Caliente: This location has an altitude from 0-1000 meters. The climate is tropical, hot, with temperatures above 77 degrees Fahrenheit. At night the temperature will cool but only minimally. In the Colombian Pacific coast the climate tends to be very wet and rainy. Temperate, mild climates, which can be seen at altitudes of approximately 1000 and 2000 meters high, range in temperatures during the day to night from 77 degrees to 68 degree Fahrenheit. The coffee zone is at this point. these are areas rich in plants and flowers. In altitude of 2000 and 3000 meters, you will experience colder temperatures from 55 to 66 degrees with large fluctuations between day and night. On sunny days, the thermometer reaches 70 degrees with ease, but in the clear night or in the early morning, frost is well-known. Even if the air feels cool, please make sure to wear proper sun protection especially if you have a history of sensitive skin. Over 3000 meters, there´s a unique world of vegetation, consisting of tropical forests to arid deserts over 4500 meters. The temperature rarely drops below 52 degrees and is often cloudy. The glaciers start at just under 5000 meters, and the weather can drop as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
In our experience, our participants manage with approximately £200-300 per week for food, going out, and souvenirs. This is unless they plan to buy a particularly large number of souvenirs or valuable items. This amount already includes some money for tips.
Please do not feel obligated to tip. It is and remains entirely voluntary and should reflect your satisfaction with the service provided. In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 10%, but of course, only if the service was satisfactory. Should you wish to tip, you are certainly welcome to do so. We recommend a tip of USD 30 to 40 for the tour guide, USD 10-15 per week per person for the tour bus driver, and USD 2-3 per day per person for local guides. A tip of USD 5 to 10 is appropriate for hotel staff, depending on your comfort level, and porters usually receive a tip of around USD 0.50-1. Things are a bit different in the Galapagos, and boat crews expect a minimum tip on multi-day cruises. Currently, this amounts to $5 per crew member and $15 for the boat's national park guide. This brings the total to approximately $50 as a minimum for a cruise.
Most dishes in South America are based on fish or meat, however throughout the year you will be able to find fresh fruit and vegetables. Almost all restaurants can prepare a dish without meat, as they usually offer side dishes of seasoned potatoes, rice, and a small salad. Talk with your travel representative before your trip to make sure we can accommodate your diet needs.
Depending on the hotel accommodations and cities, yes it is possible to do laundry. Most hotels have a free laundry service that will freshly wash and iron your clothes on request, however other hotels will charge you a low rate per pound to wash your clothes. If you are traveling through a larger city you can always ask your guide on where a close laundromat is.
Depending on the hotel/hosteria accommodation, most locations provide internet services. Especially in larger cities, you can usually find internet cafes only a short walk away from where you are staying. This will make it easy to contact family and friends back home. However, the connections can be slow and every once in a while there is no access for two or three days at a time.
Tips are an important part of the Service Sector in South America and is a sensitive issue on which we are often consulted. Those that work directly with Viventura are paid a basic salary according to proper wages of that specific area and job type and are always paid in advance before you embark on your trip. If you are satisfied with the service level that you received on your travels, any additional tip is always appreciated by the staff. This is again at your own discretion and is not mandatory.
-Please, no hard suitcases or wheeled bags. Soft duffel bags and / or backpacks (“soft” luggage) are recommended.
-We provide a limited amount of hair-dryers at each lodge, due to limited energy supply and environmental concerns.
-Shampoo, conditioners and bath gel are provided at each lodge as well.
-Bathrooms are equipped with drying lines.
-Any additional clothing and luggage that you will not be needing on the trek can be stored at your hotel in Cusco.
-If you do not have an appropriate sized duffel bag, we can provide a duffel bag on loan at the pre-trek briefing (the night before departure from Cusco). Please return it to your trip leader after the trek.
-Peru Rail, the company that operates the trains from Aguas Calientes to Cusco, has a weight limit for all luggage on the trains, which is 1 backpack (5kg/11lbs) and 1 duffel bag (10kg/22lbs) per traveller. For luggage over this weight limit, Peru Rail will charge guests directly at the train station in Aguas Calientes (Rate: US$0.82 per pound extra or US$1.80 per kg extra).
The national currency in Peru is called the "Nuevo Sol." The Nuevo Sol is generally difficult to obtain in Europe. Every city has exchange offices where money (GBP, Euros and Dollars) can be exchanged. It's generally advisable to carry small bills, as large denominations are often not accepted (not only at exchange offices). Credit card holders can use ATMs nationwide. However, you'll get a better exchange rate with an EC or Maestro card. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted and therefore offer an alternative to cash. You can find the current exchange rate at www.oanda.com. We do NOT recommend bringing traveler's checks, as some businesses refuse to cash them and waiting times at banks are often quite long.
Lastly, it is always a good idea to contact your bank before departure and inquire about the usability of your cards in your destination country.
The Bolivian currency is called the "Boliviano." This currency is generally difficult to obtain in Europe. However, the US dollar is also widely accepted in Bolivia. Every city has exchange offices where money can be exchanged – whether GBP, Euros or US dollars. Our tour guides are familiar with the local situation and will advise you of any potential problems with currency exchange. Generally, you should carry small bills, as large bills are often not accepted (not only at exchange offices). Credit card holders can use ATMs nationwide (except in rural areas such as Guayaramerin, Llallagua, and Santiago de Okhola). However, you will get a better exchange rate with a debit card (with the Maestro logo) (except in the areas mentioned above). You can find the current exchange rate at www.oanda.com. We do NOT recommend bringing traveler's checks, as some businesses refuse to cash them and waiting times at banks are often quite long.
Lastly, it is always a good idea contact your bank before departure and inquire about the usability of your cards in your destination country.
On the Salkantay Trek, you have the option of having up to 5 kg per person transported by horses. You are welcome to bring a small backpack or sports bag for this purpose. Alternatively, suitable bags can be rented from the local agency. If these are not automatically offered, it's best to ask about them during your briefing the day before. A sleeping bag is also essential for the Salkantay Trail. If you don't want to bring your own, a sleeping bag can be provided free of charge. In this case, however, bringing your own sleeping bag liner is recommended. Trekking poles are also available to borrow free of charge (especially important on days 2 and 3 of the trek, as there are some steep descents).
All hotels and hostels that we use in our travels in Colombia, are carefully selected by us. From our great communication with these hotels, Viventura knows who the local owners are, the staff that works there, and how all the employees actually operate. When choosing accommodation, many aspects are considered in our selection process such as; convenience of location, characteristics, star ranking, and available amenities. On the trip's itinerary page you can find detailed information about the extra services the hotel/hostel provides including pictures of each accommodation.
The trek is rated as moderate to challenging and covers approximately 32 miles on uneven, rocky terrain with steep uphill and downhill sections. Day 3 is the most challenging with an elevation gain of 3,000 feet in a span of 3 miles to reach a maximum altitude of 15,200 feet. Prior hiking experience is recommended, but not required. The lodge-to-lodge trek itinerary is designed to allow everyone to hike at their own pace, with plenty of breaks throughout the day. This is in essence what leads to a successful and enjoyable trek.
Weather in this region is extremely variable and you should pack for a variety of conditions. In addition, our trek passes through 12 bio-zones ranging from high altitude alpine conditions to high jungle. During a sunny day you can expect about 65–80°F. However, on the path, the weather is very unpredictable and temperatures can drop to 30°F during the day (but you won’t spend a lot of time up there). The zone of Machu Picchu has a humid and warmer climate since it is located at a lower altitude on the east side of the Andes. The average temperatures at Machu Picchu are between 73°F and 77°F, with a low of around 64°F. The region of Cusco has only two seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season starts in November and ends in March. During this time, it rains almost every day for three or four hours, but also there are several sunny days. The dry season begins around March and lasts until October. June and July are the coldest months. Paradoxically, at noon the temperatures can reach 77°F, the annual highest temperature.
There are three mobile phone providers in Colombia. Claro, Tigo and Movistar. Anyone with a mobile phone with an international calling plan, can make calls in Colombia without problems. If you want, you can buy a SIM card with its own number in Colombia, so you can recharge your phone to make calls and also can receive international calls without any problems. Contact your current phone provider for any additional information on using your phone abroad.
Plastic and glass bottles are prohibited at the Machu Picchu site. We therefore recommend bringing a water bottle. Backpacks with a capacity exceeding 20 liters are officially not permitted at the site (the exception is visitors arriving via the Inca Trail, for whom there is a luggage drop-off point at the entrance).
Tickets for climbing Wuayna Picchu must be purchased in advance. There is a strict limit on the number of visitors per day. If you are interested in climbing Wuayna Picchu, please inform your travel consultant in good time.
As a responsible tour operator, we are pleased that you, too, are making your visit to Machu Picchu as environmentally friendly as possible and thank you for your cooperation in protecting the site.
The means of transport are different depending on the itinerary and group size. According to our tours, we offer a wide range of transportation which includes: bicycle, motor boat, kayak, taxi, boat, private and public bus, walking, airplane…etc.
Please take a look at the tour's specific itinerary. On the right hand side, you will see what type of transportation is used during that day's activities.
You are most likely to encounter good weather at Machu Picchu between the months of March and October.
The average temperatures at Machu Picchu are between 73°F and 77°F, with a low of around 64°F. The region of Cusco has only two seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season starts in November and ends in March. During this time, it rains almost every day for three or four hours, but also there are several sunny days. The dry season begins around March and lasts until October. June and July are the coldest months. Paradoxically, at noon the temperatures can reach 77°F, the annual highest temperature.
Should any problems arise despite careful planning, you can contact the emergency numbers of our local partner offices listed at the beginning of your travel documents. These numbers are staffed 24 hours a day in English.
Das Baden hat in Japan eine lange Tradition! In vielen Städten findest du öffentliche Bäder (Sento) und die bekannten Onsen mit ihren natürlichen heißen Quellen. Solche Bäder gibt es oft in Tempelherbergen, im Ryokan, bei einigen Reisen im Yurari Onsen und manchmal auch in Hotels als Gemeinschaftsbadebereich neben den eigenen Duschen.
So funktioniert das Baden im Onsen oder Sento:
Die Bäder sind nach Geschlechtern getrennt, und Badekleidung ist nicht erlaubt. Die ausführliche Etikette erklärt dir dein Reiseleiter vor Ort, hier schon einmal die wichtigsten Punkte:
Weitere Hinweise:
Sprich bitte nicht zu laut, das Bad ist ein Ort der Entspannung. Das heiße Wasser kann den Kreislauf belasten – bleib am Anfang nur kurz im Wasser, sei vorsichtig beim Aufstehen und übergieße dich zwischendurch mit kühlerem Wasser. Trinke ausreichend, damit du nicht dehydrierst.
Im Yurari Onsen, das wir bei einigen Reisen besuchen, gibt es verschiedene Becken, auch im Außenbereich mit Blick auf den Fuji, sowie Sauna und Dampfbäder.
Die Etikette, sich vor dem Entspannen im heißen Wasser gründlich zu waschen, gilt übrigens auch bei Gastfamilien, in Tempelherbergen und im Ryokan. Besonders in Familien ist es üblich, da jedes Familienmitglied einmal in die heiße Wanne steigen möchte. Um Wasser zu sparen, wäscht man sich daher sehr gründlich, bevor man das Bad genießt.
Achtung: Bitte beachte, dass einige Onsen und Sento Gästen mit Tätowierungen den Zutritt verweigern können.
Of course! You will be welcomed at the airport of arrival by one of our Viventura team members or a personal chauffeur. They will be holding a large sign with your name on it.
Internet access is available in all major towns and cities during your trip. Most hotels now offer Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay in touch with loved ones back home. However, connections can be a bit slow at times.
It will likely be possible to do laundry approximately 1-2 times during the trip.
You will be able to connect and share with family and friends by internet throughout your trip. However, there are few cities that have little or no connection point or require you to pay for internet service. In the case of having to pay for internet, prices average between $1 - $3 for one hour of internet use. Most of our hotels and hosterias provide an internet cafe. During any of your free time, you are more than welcome to sign online. Just remember this is a fun and exciting trip, so try and spend time enjoying the cities and culture instead of constantly signing online.
Your guide is your first escalation point and can usually assist in the majority of circumstances but if you need to escalate an issue that your guide cannot assist with, we offer 24/7 support via phone and email; emergency contact information will be provided in your travel documents.
Yes, all our group tours are led by experienced, English-speaking guides or tour conductors who are passionate about sharing their local knowledge.
Yes, most tours have tour options that allow you to select an extra night in the city of your choice either at the beginning or end of the tour. If you don't see the option just ask us and we'd be happy to make the changes you desire.
Look at your individual tour to see what options are listed or contact your travel representative to discuss all your possibilities.
Occasionally, some planned properties may be unavailable. In such cases, we replace them with hotels of the same category.
Some hotels are simple, others more upscale – this balance is intentional to provide an authentic insight into the range of local accommodation.
Cozy, clean, and welcoming. These are the qualities we prioritize in all our accommodations. We also prefer accommodations run by locals. We know the accommodations, their owners, and often the staff personally.
The planned accommodations are described in more detail in the itinerary. More comprehensive information is provided for each day. We can guarantee the accommodations listed there for most, but not every, departure date. Should one of these accommodations be unavailable, we will offer an alternative of the same or a higher standard.
You will receive your travel documents with specific details of the hotels where you will be staying.
You’ll have 24/7 support from your guide and our local team throughout your journey. We also provide emergency contact numbers for added peace of mind.
Sustainability is at the core of our philosophy. We partner with local communities, support fair wages, minimize environmental impact, and contribute to social projects through our V Social Foundation.
International flights are not typically included, allowing you flexibility in choosing your preferred airline and schedule. We can assist with flight recommendations if needed.
Your guide is your first escalation point and can usually assist in the majority of circumstances but if you need to escalate an issue that your guide cannot assist with, we offer 24/7 support via phone and email; emergency contact information will be provided in your travel documents.
We offer a range from easy-paced cultural trips to more active adventures. Please review the trip information or ask us if you have concerns about fitness requirements.
Traveling in South America, is like traveling anywhere. As long as you take normal travel safety precautions, you can avoid most problems. Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Please take care when wandering about the main cities on your own, as pick pockets and purse-snatchers are common. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, traveller’s cheques and cash you don’t need in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Most South Americans are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city !
Your safety is of utmost importance to us. As you are traveling without a tour guide or one of our company's representatives, you will have to alert local services directly in case of emergencies. Therefore, please keep in mind the following advice before your journey with us:
Have a list of possible emergency phone numbers at the destination (e.g. local hospitals, consulate or embassy).
Always carry our emergency phone number with you (which you can find in your travel documents).
In addition, carry the emergency number of your travel health insurance.
Finally, make sure to review and understand the luggage checklist (e.g. take sufficient medication with you, tips for your first-aid kit, keep a copy of your passport, etc.), which you received as part of your travel documents.
You’ll have 24/7 support from your guide and our local team throughout your journey. We also provide emergency contact numbers for added peace of mind.
Yes, currently there are two aid projects in Colombia. One of the projects distributes clothing of all sizes to both children and adults in desperate need. You can also donate school supplies and toys for children that are less fortunate. Since our tour actually visits the projects supported by viSocial you can always make your donation in person. If you would like more information contact the viSocial office.
The following is a list of the most common illnesses:
• Please visit the CDC website for a detailed list of all diseases and the regions they effect.
• Diarrhea: This is probably the most common disease and can affect anyone. Tip: be careful with what you eat and make sure to drink plenty of bottled water. If you are still affected, some anti-diarrheal (to be taken with care) may be useful.
• Evil altitude (Andes): The true altitude sickness, as often described in guidebooks or on the Internet, rarely happens. Mild headaches, high fatigue, nausea and mild dizziness are symptoms that can arise, however it is best to buy drugs on location. Before you resort to pills it also helps to sit down or drink infusions of coca. For prevention it is advisable to rest the first day of arrival at altitude (from 2000m), not to drink alcohol and eat only foods that are easy to digest. The most important thing is to drink enough fluids (at least two to three liters per day).
• Heat exhaustion: Causes fatigue, headaches, nausea and dizziness. Drinking a lot of water to stay hydrated and avoiding direct contact with the sun are the best therapies.
The Inca Trail is surely one of the highlights of every trip to Peru. Due to tourism growth, the Peruvian government and administration of the Inca Trail decided to implement regulations to protect the fragile structure of its ecosystem. Capacity has been significantly limited and it is now not possible to book a few days or even weeks in advance. Therefore we can not guarantee participation in the Inca Trail if the booking is made to close to your departure date. Usually for the high season (late May- early October), this should be booked 22 weeks in advance and 10-12 weeks in advance for the low season (October - April).
It is now also mandatory for agencies to register the passport numbers of participants who want to trek the Inca Trail by the appropriate times listed above. Therefore, it is very important for you to have your passport number and the passport number of each participant when booking. This is the only way to ensure your spot in the Inca Trail hike. If the passport number should be referred too late, a fee of $30 shall be paid on site by the customer himself to the agency organizing the Inca Trail.
If you book your reservation too soon to your departure date, don't worry! We offer other interesting options and various trekking opportunities that can be booked within a short time frame. You will find these options under the additional modules of the tour you have chosen or you can always contact your Viventura representative from more information.
Upon launch in the UK in early 2026, your trip will be protected by the DRSF. DRSF stands for Deutscher Reisesicherungsfonds (German Travel Security Fund). As a Ventura TRAVEL customer, your payments are protected by DRSF, ensuring your money is safe and you are covered in the unlikely event of insolvency. You will receive a security certificate with your booking for your peace of mind.
To give additional comfort to UK travellers, we aim to be ATOL & ABTA protected by the second quarter of 2026 but the DRSF protection is sufficient under the 2018 UK Package Travel Regulations and has been reviewed and confirmed by our UK legal representatives.
International flights are not typically included, allowing you flexibility in choosing your preferred airline and schedule. We can assist with flight recommendations if needed.
Your guide is your first escalation point and can usually assist in the majority of circumstances but if you need to escalate an issue that your guide cannot assist with, we offer 24/7 support via phone and email; emergency contact information will be provided in your travel documents.
Travel insurance is not included in our pricing but is strongly recommended.
This trip is generally not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please contact us for detailed information about the requirements of this trip, taking your specific needs into account.
Our cancellation and refund policies are clearly outlined during booking; you can find a link to our terms at the bottom of the page. We offer flexible terms, but details may vary by trip. Please refer to the specific trip page or contact us for more information.
Ventura Travel offers small-group, expert-led journeys focused on authentic, sustainable experiences. Our tours go beyond mass tourism, supporting local communities and providing unique, in-depth cultural encounters.
1. The tip is almost always included in your bill, look for the word “Propina” 2. Ask if the water is okay to drink, if not, purchase Bottled Water 3. If the water is not drinkable, avoid ice and ice in drinks 4. Do not drink fruit juice from cans or bottles already opened 5. Do not eat raw or half cooked shellfish 6. Use caution when purchasing food from street vendors 7. Always wash fruits and vegetables before eating 8. Do not leave drinks unattended 9. Restaurants typically do not give reimbursements for bad service or food
The electric current outlets in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Venezuela are 110 voltage. Most US electronics will work without an adapter as the standard outlets in these countries have two flat prongs. However if you have some electronics with three prongs, it would be wise to bring an adapter just in case. In the countries of Brazil, Argentina, and Chile the standard voltage is 220 V and in some parts of Brazil 127 V so you’ll want to bring convertors.
Yes, on some trips. Where available, we offer options to extend your stay or add pre- and post-tour nights. Let us know your preferences and we’ll help arrange additional services where possible.
No. While we sell tours if multiple countries (i.e. Germany, France, United Kingdom, etc), we do not combine guests from those countries into a single departure. However, if, for instance, a German customer were to purchase from one of our UK sites (i.e. www.africaventura.co.uk as opposed to www.africaventura.de), nothing would stop them from doing so but the tour would be conducted in English.
We intentionally keep our groups small to ensure a more personal and immersive experience. The vast majority of our tours have a maximum limit of 12 and on average our tours have around 9 travellers. However a small number of our trips allow up to 16 travellers.
We organize a chat before the start of your trip with all the tour participants. This allows us to respond to questions about recent travel and to let travelers connect and get to know each other.
-Day pack -Broken-in hiking boots (sneakers are not suitable) -Full rain gear or poncho -Gloves -Lightweight hiking pants (recommended) or shorts -Breathable dryfit top-wear -Comfortable shoes/flip-flops -Cold-weather jacket -Long-sleeve fleece/sweater -Wool hat -Baseball cap or sombrero -Binoculars -Headlamp -Sunglasses -Comfortable hiking socks (at least 4 pairs) -Sunscreen -Insect repellent -Bathing suit -Casual mountain wear for evenings -Photo/video cameras and chargers -Trekking poles (Quality wooden walking sticks are provided) -Refillable water bottle (hydration bags are recommended)
Our tour prices typically include accommodation, most meals, guided activities, entrance fees, and ground transportation. Specific inclusions are listed on each trip page.
The lodges have an electric current of 220 volts. If you have electric appliances/devices that work with 110 volts, you should bring your own adapters since there is a limited supply of these in the lodges for your use.
We select comfortable, well-located hotels and guesthouses that reflect the local character. Accommodation standards and details are listed on each trip page.
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