FAQ

Here are answers to some of our most frequently-asked questions.

Who are Crooked Trails participants? Should I travel with you?

Crooked Trails participants are typically active travelers who are craving a vacation experience that goes beyond traditional tourism. They have a desire to learn about and truly understand the country they are visiting. Most importantly, they are interested in full cultural immersion and look forward to entering our hosts’ homes with openness and respect.

Crooked Trails travel programs are a great fit for a large range of people, including independent travelers, families, couples and groups.

Are you . . .
In search of an authentic cultural experience outside of typical tourism?
Looking for travel experiences that provide both challenge and inspiration?
Seeking an alternate vacation experience that will expand your (or your family’s) understanding and connection to the world?
Eager to explore the planet and its diverse cultures in a sustainable way?
Searching for a one-of-a-kind journey which is custom-designed to provide you both support and independence?
Invested in long-term sustainability and in keeping your tourist dollars as local as possible?

How much do programs cost? 

What is included in the price of the program?

Each individual program description contains full details of what is included; generally, the program fee includes: local guides, all park and monument fees, all accommodations, porters where relevant, donations to villages, most in-country transportation, food during homestays, and some other meals.

You are responsible for some meals in country, airport departure taxes, international flights to the destination country, tips for local guides (if you wish), and any extra purchases you would like to make to support the local economy.

How many participants are there on a program? 

What is the minimum/max age for your travel programs? 

We welcome young children on our family programs and are happy to help cater your family itinerary to accommodate for their needs. Minors enrolling in a travel program individually under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Some of our more culturally and physically demanding programs are not suitable for children under the age of 12. We’ve worked with many active elders and are happy to discuss which destinations may be best for you if you’re seeking a slightly less physically challenging itinerary.

Who are Crooked Trails guides? 

What makes a Crooked Trails travel program unique?

– Full customization for travelers who want to pick their dates and actively shape their journey
– Strong in-country networks and our depth of relationships with communities
– Small, intimate group size on our group programs
– Trip support from the moment you come on-board
– Special invitations that allow for authentic cultural immersion
– Experienced guides who engage you and enrich your experience
– Programs that respect nature and protect natural and human resources
– Benefits to our host communities – helping people where they need it most
– Sustains local economies through support of regional services
– An opportunity to learn, grow and be challenged in ways that will enrich your life

What kind of accommodations do you use?

There is the unique and wonderful option to experience a homestay in each of our destinations – find out what to expect on a homestay here.

When you’re not the guests of locals during a home stay, we select comfortable and authentic accommodations, from stone guest lodges to bungalows and small hotels. As our trips are customizable, we can often offer different options based on budget and comfort level.

Crooked Trails supports the local economy by choosing lodging that is locally-owned.

All of our founder-led group programs are based on double occupancy; same-sex participants are matched up as roommates by our facilitators. If you wish to have your own room on a founder-led program, please let us know ahead of time and we can let you know if a single supplement option is available.

What should I expect on a homestay?

Do I need travel insurance? 

Crooked Trails recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans can include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more.

For more information on the available plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 47-0262.

Please Note: To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, the protection plan must be purchased within15 days (Travel Basic) or 21 days (Travel Select) from the time you make your initial trip deposit. However, the plan can be purchased any time prior to departure.

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. E7N

How do you handle payments and refunds? 

A program deposit is required to confirm your spot. The remaining balance will be due 12 weeks before your departure date. We accept credit card payments via Paypal, as well as personal checks.

Should you need to withdraw from a program, the deposit is not refundable unless the program is cancelled. The balance of your payments will be refunded according to the refund policy (based on the number of weeks before departure), which is detailed on our Policies page.

What is your Privacy Policy? 

Why are you called Crooked Trails?