BEFORE YOU BOOK

Your Questions, Answered

Practical answers to the questions our travelers ask most. Booking, packing, visas, sustainability, and what to expect on the road.

FAQs

What is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism is travel built around minimizing harm and maximizing benefit to the places we visit. At Wayfarer, this means small group sizes, partnerships with local guides and conservation organizations, and a portion of every booking returning to the communities and ecosystems we explore. We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so this work is built into how we operate, not added on after.

What should I pack for a Wayfarer tour?

Great question! Even though our tours are designed to be eco-friendly, every traveler can help reduce their impact further. When packing for one of our trips, bring reusable items like water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags to avoid single-use plastics. Pack lightweight, layerable clothing to reduce luggage weight and keep your travel footprint smaller. On the tour, be mindful of your surroundings, stay on marked paths, and keep noise levels low to respect wildlife and local communities.

Do you offer discounts to veterans and seniors?

Yes, we do offer discounts to seniors and veterans. To enquire, please reach out.

What's included in the trip cost?

Your tour cost typically includes accommodations at the hotels listed in your itinerary, daily breakfast and selected lunches and dinners as noted in the day-by-day schedule, all ground transportation during the tour, domestic flights within the tour itinerary, entrance fees to all scheduled attractions, and the services of English-speaking local guides. Not every meal is included, since travelers often want flexibility to explore local restaurants on their own. International airfare, visa fees, travel insurance, gratuities, and personal expenses are not included. Please refer to your specific tour itinerary for exact inclusions, as they vary by trip.

How will I know where to meet for my trip?

All this information will be included in your travel documents that you receive from Wayfarer. If you have any questions, please reach out to your Travel Planner or Travel Advisor, or reach out to us at the provided help contacts below.

Can I change my accommodations during a tour?

Accommodations are part of the tour package and cannot be changed after booking. However, if you’d like to upgrade your lodging, please contact a Travel Advisor at (801) 800-7906 to discuss options. Upgrades may be available for an additional fee depending on the location and your needs.

Does Wayfarer book my flights?

Wayfarer does not book international flights from your home airport to your tour’s starting destination. However, we do organize all domestic flights that take place during the tour itinerary. We recommend booking your international flights once your tour dates are confirmed, and we’re happy to recommend trusted partners who can assist with international air travel if needed.

Do I need to purchase trip insurance?
For travelers on Wayfarer, trip insurance is optional and comes at an additional cost. We strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which may reimburse you for non-refundable trip costs. Travel insurance may offer financial protection for trip cancellation and interruption, as well as assistance should you encounter covered travel delays, baggage loss, or require emergency medical treatment while traveling.

How do I book a tour with Wayfarer?
You can book by submitting an inquiry through our website, calling us at (801) 800-7906, or emailing us. Our team will follow up with availability, answer your questions, and walk you through the booking process. A deposit secures your spot.
What's the deposit and payment schedule?

A deposit is required at the time of booking to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance is due before departure. Specific deposit amounts and payment deadlines vary by tour and will be detailed in your booking documents.

What's the cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary by tour and are detailed in each tour’s booking documents. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected cancellations. For specific questions about your tour’s cancellation policy, please contact us directly.

How large are Wayfarer tour groups?

Most of our group tours range from a small handful of travelers to around 16 participants, depending on the destination. Smaller group sizes are part of how we keep our environmental impact low and ensure travelers get a more personal experience. Custom and private tours are also available.

Are tours suitable for solo-travelers?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome on all of our group tours. Single supplements may apply if you prefer your own room. If you’d like to avoid the supplement, we’re happy to discuss room-sharing options with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies?
Yes, we can accommodate most common dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and food allergies. Please inform us at the time of booking so we can plan ahead with our local partners. Note that strict dietary requirements may be more challenging in rural areas, so we’ll work with you on what’s realistic for your specific tour.
Do I need a visa to travel with Wayfarer?
Visa requirements depend on your destination and your nationality. We provide guidance on visa requirements for each tour, but securing your visa is ultimately your responsibility. We can provide invitation letters or supporting documents where needed. For trips to China specifically, please refer to our China travel guide for current visa information.
What vaccinations do I need for my trip?
Vaccination recommendations vary by destination. We recommend consulting the CDC website (cdc.gov/travel) and your healthcare provider four to six weeks before departure. Wayfarer does not provide medical advice and cannot confirm specific vaccination requirements on your behalf.
How does Wayfarer practice sustainability?
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, sustainability is built into how we design and run our tours. We work with local guides and operators, keep group sizes manageable to minimize environmental impact, and a portion of every booking supports environmental causes including the protection of Utah’s wild horse populations. We’re committed to leaving the places we visit better than we found them.
How is Wayfarer different from a regular tour company?
Wayfarer is structured as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which means our focus is on the quality and impact of the experience rather than profit margins. Our tours include educational components, partnerships with local guides and operators, and a commitment to supporting environmental causes in the regions we visit. Travel with Wayfarer means your trip directly contributes to our mission.

Still Have Questions?

Can’t find what you’re looking for? We’re here to help. Email, call, or use the contact form, and we’ll respond within one business day.

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