Expedition to
Vietnam and Cambodia:
Amazing caves, Halong Bay, Angkor temples and the beaches of Koh Rong Island
14 DAYS
20 PEOPLE
3390 EURO
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Venture into the unexplored world of Vietnam, where the mountains are riddled with caves and underground rivers; to feel like a real pioneer! In the outback of central Vietnam, among the jungles and rivers, a real underground kingdom has recently been discovered, numbering hundreds of caves. The Paganel team will walk through stone mountain paths along landscape peaks through majestic caves. We will plunge into the unique world of underground rivers, multimillion-dollar cave formations and see the most extraordinary things that are hidden in the underground world from us in the mysterious region of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng.
We will enter the caves from one side and exit from the other, overcoming all obstacles along the way. Get ready to swim through underground rivers and galleries, past stalactites and stalagmites! Over these two days, you will have a full range of experiences.You will not see such a masterpiece of nature in any museum in the world!
We explore caves that have been visited by exploration expeditions from the BBC, National Geographic, and our Paganel Studio team. This is a real challenge to yourself and a real journey worthy of time and life! The Underworld is a unique experience and an unforgettable adventure.
After such an eventful adventure, we will have a rest and a cruise in the famously beautiful Halong Bay (Hạ Long). We will take a boat ride on the emerald sea among the majestic rocky peaks. They, like petrified giants, have long guarded the sea passages to the beautiful country of the Vietnamese!
And amazing wonders await us in the Kingdom of Cambodia -
We will plunge into the world of one of the most mysterious civilizations - the Khmers. It left behind many artifacts and mysteries to which humanity still cannot find answers.
When the majestic Khmer temples open up, only one question arises in your head: How? How in the 12th century was it possible to build such grandiose architectural masterpieces as Angkor Wat using primitive tools? The height of the central tower of the temple complex is equal to the height of a 20-story building - 65 meters. Isn't this surprising?! How about the Bayon Temple, where 216 stone faces carved on 54 towers watch you, huh? This whole once lost world in the middle of the wild jungle seems absolutely unreal...
And, friends, these are not just buildings, this is a kind of book in 4D format carved on stone: the walls of the temples are decorated with bas-reliefs that colorfully tell us about the life of an ancient civilization. And when you read it, serious doubts arise regarding our knowledge about this world. Who knows, perhaps the secret of these unique messages will be revealed to you. And there are many such buildings here. We explore all of Ankgor's most unique and popular temples.
And, friends, these are not just buildings, this is a kind of book in 4D format carved on stone: the walls of the temples are decorated with bas-reliefs that colorfully tell us about the life of an ancient civilization. And when you read it, serious doubts arise regarding our knowledge about this world. Who knows, perhaps the secret of these unique messages will be revealed to you. And there are many such buildings here. We explore all of Ankgor's most unique and popular temples.
We will also walk through the mysterious ruins of Ta Prohm, where nature and architecture intertwine in a bewitching dance. We will go to the Kulen mountain range, from where the divine Buddha took his last step into nirvana. Can you imagine the power this sacred place has 😉
We will visit the legendary Tonle Sap Lake. Here we will find a unique spectacle that attracts tourists from all over the world - the floating village of Chong Ne.
Many more exclusive, unique and inexplicable things await us on the planet Cambodia. Yes, yes, on the planet! Because this is not just another country, another culture, the Kingdom of Cambodia is a separate universe!
ROUTE
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international flight from Da Nang to Siem Reap.
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Cave tour (2 days – 1 night) with meals and accommodation in a lodge.
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Cruise on a 4* ship around Halong Bay with accommodation and meals (2 days and 1 night).
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Individual bus transfer along the entire route.
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Sightseeing tour of Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang (Marble Mountains)
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Entrance tickets and permits according to the program.
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Meals specified in the program (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
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Two days and two nights on Koh Rong Island (South China Sea, Gulf of Siam).
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Guides who speak Ukrainian and Russian (throughout the entire route).
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Local English-speaking guide in Vietnam and Cambodia as an escort.
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Accommodation in excellent 4-5* hotels (two people per room).
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Tickets for the night train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi.
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International flight to Hanoi (Vietnam) and back from Phnom Penh (Cambodia).
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Medical insurance.
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Single room supplement (630 euros).
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Transfers, meals, and excursions not included in the program.
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Tips for local guides: $60 per person for the entire trip.
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Vietnam visa (applied for online, $25 per person)
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Cambodia visa (applied for online or upon arrival, $30 per person)
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Each tour accepts a maximum of 20 tourists, divided into 2 groups. Each group of 10 people moves at intervals of approximately 20-30 minutes to ensure comfort and safety.
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Protective equipment: the company will provide protective equipment such as helmets, safety belts, expedition headlamps, gloves, waterproof bags, and equipment.
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Travel insurance: The company purchases travel insurance for all tourists participating in the tour, with a maximum compensation of $400 per person. Visitors are advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance for themselves before participating in the tour.
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Service team: for every 10 guests, there will be: 1 guide, 1 safety assistant, 1 chef, 2 camp kitchen assistants.
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Food and drinks: the company provides food, tea, and coffee throughout the trip (except for additional items requested by the client). Meals are based on a fixed menu, and vegetarian or dietary meals can be provided upon prior request.
Visa and invitation to Vietnam for Ukrainians (a visa can be obtained independently on the website https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/khai-thi-thuc-dien-tu/cap-thi-thuc-dien-tu or with the help of the host company at a price of $65/person, for this you will need to provide in advance: a scan of your passport, air tickets to and from Vietnam, travel insurance from $10,000, a 4 x 6 photo on a white background).
Visa to Cambodia ($30/person, issued upon arrival, independently at the airport and quickly).
IMPORTANT!
Due to the fact that our expeditions do not include international flights to the starting point of the program, we cannot be held responsible for changes in flight conditions by airlines or airport requirements. Since our travelers fly from many different countries and cities, we never participate in the purchase of air travel and limit ourselves exclusively to advisory services in the selection of flights. Air agents or airlines from which tickets were purchased are responsible for the purchase and technical support.
ITINERARY
Day 1
11.03.2026
Arrival in the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi - the city “between two rivers”.
Transfer from the airport to the city. And welcome to your cozy hotel, where you can check in and enjoy a well-deserved rest, immersing yourself in the metropolitan world of Vietnam! We will come to our senses, if the whole group gets together not too late, maybe we will take a walk around the evening Hanoi, ride rickshaws and spend a dating evening!
Day 2
12.03.2026
Our introduction to Hanoi will begin with an exciting walk through this wonderful city, starting with a visit to Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the main square of Ba Dinh and the historically significant temple of Thua Mot Kot (One Pillar Pagoda), the Turtle Temple (Thap Rua).
We then take a fascinating journey through time to the ancient university known as the Temple of Literature with its atmosphere of learning and wisdom that once permeated this sacred center of learning.
We will also pass through a unique alley in a busy quarter, where twice a day a train passes just a few centimeters from the houses, and where every street and house is a real artistic masterpiece.
This day promises to be full of impressions, natural beauty, and the spirit of Vietnam's ancient history.
(Meals: breakfast included)
Day 3
13.03.2026
Ahead of us is an adventure-filled sail through Ha Long Bay with unforgettable views! Rocks out of the water, like we're in the movie Avatar!
There are more than 3,000 rocky islands in the waters of Halong Bay, which gives it an atmosphere of originality and uniqueness. Upon arrival, we will board the cruise ship Seryna Cruise 4*. And with an overnight stay on it we will go to explore the waters of this mysterious bay.
Our program may include changes to the order of visiting locations, but don't worry, we will have time to see all the most interesting things! On this day or the next, we will explore the largest stalactite cave in the bay.
Along the way we will meet villages right on the water. Fish markets and others, which will allow us to understand how the lives of the people who live here flow. In the evening, after dinner, we will arrange a movie screening, possibly squid fishing, or a party!
(Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 4
14.03.2026
After breakfast, we continue our journey through Halong Bay. You can swim on Cosmonaut Titov Island, climb the mountain to the observation deck, go kayaking or boating, and explore unusual rocks and caves.
Farewell to the crew and captain, disembarkation, transfer to Hanoi. Before boarding the night train, you will have free time for dinner and a stroll through Hanoi in the evening. Overnight travel in sleeping cars to Dong Hoi (4 people per compartment) (Đồng Hới).
(Meals: breakfast)
Day 5
15.03.2026
Arrival in Dong Hoi, transfer to the starting point. Meet the team of guides, porters and cooks. After breakfast, we take with us only the essentials and all go together for two days on a journey through the inaccessible Vietnam.
Trekking through peanut and rice fields along narrow winding paths will instantly transport us from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to a world of adventure! Your journey will begin with a scenic ride to the trailhead, where you will start your ascent up a hill covered in greenery. After a 15-minute climb, breathtaking views will open up before you: you will descend into a quiet river valley, where a short stop is planned for rest and a snack surrounded by pristine nature.
After walking along the dry stone riverbed, we will reach the impressive entrance to Hang Tien 1 cave. Inside, a truly magical sight awaits you: green calcite formations, striped limestone walls and ceilings, as if covered with patterns created over millions of years. In the center of the cave is a high dome and cascades of calcite terraces resembling rice fields, but created by nature itself.
After a detailed tour of the cave, we return to the exit, where a delicious lunch will be waiting for us. Next, the route will take us through mountain cliffs to a hidden natural pool — the perfect place for a refreshing swim
The Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng karst region with a unique ecosystem, which contains about 300 caves and grottoes with a total length of about 126 kilometers. More than 96% of Phong Nha-Ke Bang's territory is covered by evergreen tropical forests, most of which are primary forests.
More than 380 species of animals live here, sixty-six of them are listed in the Red Book of Endangered Species of Vietnam, as well as almost 260 species of butterflies and more than 72 species of fish, including endemics.
Then, we return along a picturesque path to our cozy River Bungalow to rest and recharge our batteries.
At 6:00-7:00 p.m., the most heartfelt part of the day will begin — dinner at a local resident's house. Here, you will not only try homemade dishes, but also get acquainted with the life and traditions of the village of Tan Hoa. The day will end with a comfortable night at River Bungalow, enveloped in the silence and charm of the Vietnamese countryside.
Day 6
16.03.2026
With the first rays of the sun, Tu Lan Lodge will awaken your senses with a fragrant breakfast prepared by the chef. In the morning, we prepare for new adventures. After a briefing, we set off on a hike that will take us through emerald cornfields and green meadows to the Rào Nan River. After crossing it, we begin the ascent up the slope — a short but intense section that leads to the entrance of Rat Cave. (The order of the cave route is subject to change.)
Here, wearing helmets and headlamps, we will begin our exploration of this compact but impressive cave, which is about 300 meters long. Inside, there are sparkling stalagmites, high arched ceilings, and bizarre formations resembling hearts — like frozen poetry carved by time.
Next, we will travel along the picturesque Hung Ton Valley to the entrance of the cave of the same name. Here, a real speleological adventure will begin: ancient fossilized remains of marine mollusks, preserved on the walls and floor, will tell us about the history of the underground world of Tu Lan.
With the help of a safety system and stairs over 10 meters high, you will descend into the depths, where the path continues along an underground river illuminated by special lanterns. The water glimmers in the darkness, revealing the fascinating secrets of the cave.
After a busy itinerary, enjoy a well-deserved lunch by the picturesque Lake Tổ Mộ, whose tranquil waters reflect the green valley. This place of beauty and tranquility once served as the backdrop for the filming of the movie “Immortal.” This is a real adventure in the underground world! Because each of us should at least once in our lives descend into the narrow natural corridors and look into the amazing underground world of caves. This world is amazing! After all, it has been created over thousands of years by drops of water that gradually erode the indomitable rock. And here, these drops flow through underground rivers and lakes!
The road will be full of activities, adventures, and discoveries! On this day, we will walk through jungles and caves for 12-14 km. After lunch, we will head back to the village of Tan Hoa. We will take a shower, change our clothes, and happily board a private bus to continue our journey to the city of Hue.
(Meals: breakfast, lunch)
Day 7
17.03.2026
Today is also a very busy day for us. After breakfast, we set off on an excursion to the Imperial City in Hue. On the left bank of the Perfume River lies the Citadel, a significant military fortification that became a symbol of the greatness of the last ruling Nguyen dynasty. It was conceived and designed by Emperor Gia Long himself, the first of the thirteen monarchs of the dynasty, and was built under his direct supervision for almost three decades, from 1803 to 1832.
The citadel has an almost perfect square shape with a perimeter of about 10 km and covers a large area of 520 hectares. Inside the fortress, there were not only palaces and temples, but also public buildings, private houses, and eight villages that supported the functioning of the imperial court.
Next on our itinerary is a cruise along the picturesque Perfume River and a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hue, founded in 1601. The pagoda, which translates as “Heavenly Woman,” is considered a spiritual symbol of the city. The tour concludes with a visit to the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh. Next, we board a bus that will take us to the city of Hoi An in an hour. Check-in at the hotel, some free time.
Hoi An is often recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, thanks to its unique neighborhoods and old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is an elegant arched bridge connecting two neighborhoods — Japanese and Chinese — which has become a symbol of cultural unity. According to legend, a mythical dragon once slept under the bridge, its body stretching from India to Japan. By building the bridge, people “pacified” the monster, and in memory of this, a small temple was erected on one side of the bridge.
CNN even named Hoi An one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia. Narrow streets lined with low-rise buildings in oriental style create a unique atmosphere of centuries past. The historic city center is closed to traffic.
During the walk, you will visit the lively local market, the true center of everyday life in Hoi An. Here you can see how traditional bargaining is conducted, breathe in the aromas of fresh spices, and taste fruits and local cuisine. Free time, return to the hotel, rest.
(Meals: breakfast)
Day 8
18.03.2026
After breakfast, we will take a bus to Da Nang Airport. But on the way, we will stop at the Marble Mountains. The Marble Mountains are a group of five limestone mountains near Da Nang. They are known for their caves, tunnels, Buddhist pagodas and temples, as well as beautiful views. Each mountain is named after one of the five elements: metal, water, wood, fire, and earth.
However, only one of them, Tuy Son (Water Mountain), is the most famous tourist attraction. In its depths and caves, you can find many bizarre Hindu temples, and the top of the mountain is covered with various pagodas and observation decks.
Transfer to the airport, departure to Cambodia, to the city of Siem Reap. Upon arrival, we will obtain visas (if anyone has not done so), collect our luggage, and board the bus. A 40-minute scenic drive to the hotel, where tropical flowers, traditional music, and a magical atmosphere await us for a rest before a new eventful tour of Angkor!
(Meals: breakfast)
Day 9
19.03.2026
Today, we are going on a very exciting journey to the lost world of Angkor, once the center of the powerful and prosperous Khmer Empire. We will witness the first rays of the sun covering the famous Angkor Wat with gold, a sight that cannot be described in words. We have a lot to cover with you! Because we are doing the “Grand Circle of Angkor.” This is not three locations, but six, or even seven of the most amazing Khmer temples in the world!
Let's start with Angkor Wat, of course. This magnificent structure, built in the 12th century, is one of the wonders of the world and the largest religious building dedicated to the god Vishnu.
This is what the French traveler and naturalist Henri Muot wrote in his book, who, in search of rare bugs, spiders, butterflies and other living creatures, got lost in the jungle and accidentally stumbled upon this amazing temple complex: “I have never felt as happy as I do now, in this gorgeous tropical setting. Even if I knew that I would have to die, I would never exchange this life for the pleasures and conveniences of the civilized world." Thus, thanks to the Frenchman, in 1861 Europe learned about the existence of the Temple City of Angkor Wat.
The temple complex covers an area of over 3,000 km² (slightly larger than Luxembourg) and is built of sandstone. The weight of individual blocks reaches 4 tons, but they were adapted so carefully that the blocks did not need mortar. The central part of Angkor Wat is crowned with 5 towers or prangs. The highest of which symbolizes the mystical Mount Meru, where the gods live. According to Hindu texts, the height of this mountain is more than 1 million km. The height of the central tower is 65 meters.
Next, we will be surprised by the legendary Bayon Temple (Prasat Bayon), which is located in the center of the ancient capital of Angkor - Angkor Thom, with its architectural atmosphere. On the walls of the temple you will see numerous bas-reliefs that will tell you about the life, wars, holidays, rituals, scenes from the life of the ancient Khmers.
But the most delightful thing about a temple is its faces. They decorate 54 towers. On each of the towers, a face is carved from stone on four sides. That is, only 216 stone faces. Not all of them have actually survived. But still, no matter where you find yourself in the temple, several stone faces will be watching you at the same time. Who are they? What do they want to say? Maybe their secret will be revealed to you 😉
Here you can also climb the stone mountain-temple (Baphuon) and stroll through the territory of the former royal palace with its central temple of Phimeanakas, the terrace of the elephants and the leper king.
And at the end of the excursion day, closer to sunset, you will visit the ancient Buddhist monastery of Ta Prohm. Heavily destroyed, this temple was once richly decorated, music was played here, and receptions and dances were held in the halls. However, during the capture of Angkor by the Siamese in the 15th century, Ta Prohm, like all the other temples, was abandoned and swallowed up by giant ficus, silk trees.
This is exactly how the temple appeared to the eyes of the Frenchman Henri, in a symbiosis of stone and nature.
We will also visit the temples of Preah Khan, where magnificent carvings and large stone blocks have been preserved, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and grandeur; Ta Som, famous for its ruined walls entwined with trees; and Pre Rup, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding jungle and temples. The great circle of Angkor is 35 km of exciting discoveries!
After returning to Siem Reap, we recommend getting a massage, then heading to Pub Street at night to drink a mango margarita, listen to live music in a pub, or attend a dinner show with Aspara dancing.
(Meals: breakfast included)
Day 10
20.03.2026
Today we will go on a trip to the small Kulen Mountain, which is considered a sacred place among the Khmers. According to legend, it was here that the divine Buddha took his last step into nirvana.
On the way we will visit another miracle of Khmer architecture - the Beng Mealea Temple and Banteay Srei. We will walk along the mountain river “Thousand Lingams”. The word lingam in Hinduism symbolizes God Shiva, namely his reproductive organ is a symbol of the divine productive force.
And here, along the bottom of the river, 1000 lingas were carved right into the rocky bottom. Passing through them, the river gains strength and, going down, irrigates the rice fields, making them fertile. It is also believed that water can cure infertility.
Then we will climb to the peak of the mountain rock - here is a functioning Buddhist monastery of the 16th century with a carved 8-meter silhouette of a “lying” Buddha. We will also visit the caves in which local ascetics spent their entire lives.
After which, in the midst of the sultry heat, a gift awaits us - swimming in the cool waters of the two-stage Kulen waterfall. Known as a real place of power, where from time immemorial they have been asking for strength, health, and the fulfillment of desires from God Shiva!
Return to the hotel, farewell dinner, rest.
(Meals: breakfast included)
Day 11
21.03.2026
Today is our day off! So we can devote it to rest or new discoveries and travels: go to meet the dawn, while there are no people around, take a walk in the silence of the majestic temples of Angkor.
But I would highly recommend visiting additional locations and going on excursions. For example, to the ancient city of Koh Ker and the mysterious “pyramid of death.”
Or spend half a day visiting the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia – Tonlé Sap. It is also known as the “Khmer Sea.” During the rainy season, from April to November, when the Tonlé Sap River, which flows out of it, changes its direction to the opposite, the lake's area increases fivefold and reaches 10–16,000 square kilometers.
Due to this feature, the lake is popularly referred to as the heart of Cambodia. Indeed, numerous rivers and canals, like a circulatory system, feed most of the country's rice plantations. Warm water, shallow depths, and a huge amount of humus washed away from the fields create ideal conditions for fish reproduction. It is no surprise that Tonle Sap is one of the most productive freshwater fish resources in the world.
People living on the shores of the lake are forced to adapt to these conditions and build houses on high stilts or directly on rafts. As a result, entire settlements have sprung up on the lake. These are villages on the water with their own schools, police stations, and even temples. In the evening, we will gather, pick up our suitcases, board the night bus, and head to the sea! The Cambodian island of Koh Rong awaits us!
(Meals: breakfast included)
Day 12-13
22-23.03.2026
Our exciting adventures are coming to an end, but not the journey! It's time to relax by the sea! In the morning, we will arrive at the port, where a boat or ferry will take our team to a cozy 4* hotel on Koh Rong Island!
The name of the island most likely comes from the Khmer language (Rong cave, tunnel). However, some locals claim that Rong is the name of a historical figure. The name could also come from the old Khmer word Rong, which means shelter. Thus, the name of the island can be translated as “Island - Shelter.”
The island has an area of about 78 km² and 43 of its 61 km of coastline are beaches! One of the seasons of the French version of the reality show “The Last Hero” was filmed near Sok San Beach, located in the western part of the island! So we will finally swim, relax, and sunbathe!
(Meals: breakfast included)
Day 14
24.03.2026
Well, our journey of amazing adventures is coming to an end! We need to get ready for the road and have breakfast. Warm hugs, a little sadness, we say goodbye to each other until new stories and new adventures! Transfer to the ferry, then to Phnom Penh airport and flight home!
ATTENTION! The main thing is that your departure flight is no earlier than 15:00 from Phnom Penh Airport (Cambodia)!
You can also extend your stay on the island. Or choose another option to continue your independent journey through Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand.
Or, as an option, a continuation of your already independent trip to Cambodia, Laos or Thailand on the ocean.
WHY WITH PAGANEL?
We are unique
For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.
Creation
The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!
Interest
By joining our team, you join a kind of club family, which already consists of several hundred people who are interested in discovering the world with us.
Since most of the expenses for organizing a trip – air tickets and travel documents for other modes of transportation, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. – are made by us in advance, long before the trip, the prepayment or payment for the trip is non-refundable in the event of cancellation.
Since most of the expenses for the organization of the trip are air tickets and travel documents for other types of transport, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. are not refundable in case of your cancellation of the trip. We simply have no way to return it.
Please note that this itinerary is tentative. The weather always has the last word. The itinerary is designed to allow sufficient time at the end of the Expedition in case of any weather-related delays. If necessary, the captain can change the expedition route depending on external conditions!
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