FAQ's

How much flexibility is there in the itinerary?

Throughout all of our travel styles, we have built in options and free time where possible so that you can experience a place and its people in a way that’s meaningful to you. By their nature, some trip types offer more flexibility and free time. For instance, private expeditions balance guided tours and planned activities with time to explore on your own, and  www.mandrillsafaris.com)National Geographic Journeys have more free time and options built into most days, so you can choose what kind of restaurant you’d like or what local sites are most interesting to you. On our small ship voyages, we keep our itineraries flexible to take advantage of unexpected opportunities or to adapt to weather conditions or other circumstances. If you are interested in exploring further, many of our expeditions offer pre- or post-trip extensions. We can also assist you if you’d like to extend your stay at the beginning or end of a trip.

What does the trip cost generally include?

 

For National Geographic Expeditions, the cost includes meals, accommodations, and excursions as indicated in the itinerary; services of the National Geographic expert or expedition leader and local guides; ground transportation; most transfers; baggage handling; gratuities (except for those for the ship or train crew, where applicable, unless otherwise noted in the itinerary); and pre-trip materials. Included meals are noted at the end of each day on our itineraries with a B for breakfast, L for lunch, and D for dinner.

For National Geographic Active Expeditions, the cost includes meals, accommodations, and excursions as indicated in the itinerary; services of a trip leader and local guides; ground transportation; some transfers; gratuities (unless otherwise noted in the itinerary); and pre-trip materials. Included meals are noted at the end of each day on our itineraries with a B for breakfast, L for lunch, and D for dinner.

For National Geographic Journeys the cost includes meals, accommodations, and excursions as indicated in the itinerary; services of local guides; ground transportation; some transfers; and electronic pre-trip materials.

Do I need to purchase trip insurance?

For travelers on National Geographic Expeditions, trip insurance is optional and comes at an additional cost. We strongly recommend that you purchase this insurance to protect your travel investment. Travel insurance can offer financial protection for trip cancellation and interruption, as well as assistance should you encounter travel delays, baggage loss, or require medical treatment while traveling.
A custom-designed travel insurance option is available through Travel Insurance Services (TIS). Information about this option will be provided once you are confirmed on a departure. Please note that TIS will waive the pre-existing condition exclusion and provide other added benefits, including a “Cancel/Interruption for Any Reason” upgrade option, if you apply for travel insurance within 21 calendar days of our receipt of your initial deposit.  and/or brochure sent with confirmation materials for details concerning all benefits, as certain restrictions may apply.

For National Geographic Journeys, each guest is required to have a minimum level of travel insurance coverage for medical emergency evacuation and repatriation of $200,000 (USD, or equivalent in other currency). You may already have coverage through your work, credit card, or annual travel policy. If your pre-existing coverage does not meet these needs, you will be required to purchase travel medical insurance. Additional travel insurance, including cancellation coverage, is optional but strongly recommended. For more details about medical and travel

What do I need to bring on my expedition?

On a National Geographic Expedition, the dress is typically casual, so we recommend that you pack clothes that are comfortable and that will be well suited to the activities and climate specific to your expedition. Prior to your trip, we will provide you with packing tips and suggestions and information regarding any baggage weight restrictions.

Once I book my trip, what information and materials will I receive?

After you sign up for a National Geographic Expedition, you will receive several pre-trip mailings with specific information about your destination; packing suggestions; and other relevant information to help you prepare for your trip. Any additional materials you receive will depend on the trip you have booked.

When you book a National Geographic Journey, you’ll receive all pre-trip information electronically, including destination-specific stories and information prepared by National Geographic.