Snorkel with whales, dolphins, dugongs, sharks & mantas

Palau’s Big Five Extension

Palau

4 Days

From $2,295

Level 3

Moderate

Overview

    Contact Us Download Itinerary

    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Overview

    Our post-trip extension provides ample opportunities to see Palau's “Big Five”—pilot whales, spinner dolphins, dugongs, sharks, mantas—that are not normally seen in the areas we explore on our regular itinerary. Join us for what promises to be an exciting “safari” discovering some of Palau's most fascinating creatures!

    Arrive: Koror, Palau

    Depart: Koror, Palau

    Highlights

    • Snorkel and kayak to spot Palau's “Big Five”: pilot whales, spinner dolphins, dugongs, sharks, and mantas

    Itinerary

    Download Itinerary Expand All Days
    We meet in the morning and depart Koror by boat in search of crocodiles within the labyrinth of islands of Nikko Bay (in a different area than the one we explored on the main trip). After lunch in a secluded cove, we'll slip into kayaks with the hopes of paddling with dugongs, the only remaining species of the serenia, or moon creatures, distant aquatic relatives of the elephant. These slow-moving marine mammals graze on sea grass in shallow waters along coastlines in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Their feeding style gives them their more common nickname: sea cow. We finish the day with a snorkel at Lolita's Coral Gardens. We return to the Palau Carolines Resort by speedboat. Dinner on your own and overnight at hotel...BL
    We're picked up by boat at 8:30 am and head out to the abyssal trenches on the east side of the archipelago where we hope to find spinner dolphins. We have excellent chances to spot these creatures as we cruise along: they frolic in the bow wake of the boat and often hang around for 30 minutes or more. In-water experiences with the spinners tend to be brief and our attempts will be based exclusively on their behavior. The primary goal of our day is to spot pilot whales, melon headed whales, false killer whales (all of these are known collectively as "Black Fish"), and potentially, sperm whales. All these cetaceans are highly social, ridiculously intelligent, and potentially curious. In-water experiences will be based on surface conditions and each guest's confidence in the open ocean environment. Additionally, we'll have hydrophones that help us pinpoint their locations. Return to Palau Carolines Resort for overnight...BL
    Today we head out through Ulong Channel and troll the open waters as we make our way to Ngemelis Island. Dolphin and whale encounters in this area are also quite common. We snorkel even more of the outer reef sites to include Shark City and New Drop Off, which are typically not included in our regular itinerary. As the afternoon incoming tide rolls in, we'll slip in the water at German Channel to witness the barrel rolling feeding behavior of giant mantas. During the mating season (highly variable, but typically covering about 3 months per year), the mantas collect in massive numbers (as many as 18 last year) and form what we call manta trains. All this feeding and courtship occurs just below the surface, so even snorkelers—and not just SCUBA divers—have good chances of witnessing this behavior. We return to the Palau Carolines Resort as the sun sets...BL
    Transfer to the airport for homeward-bound flights...B

    Pricing

    Trip Extensions can be added on to Small Group Adventures or Private Journeys, to lengthen and customize your trip. Prices are per person and not guaranteed until services are confirmed. Contact us for availability, questions, or to book your adventure!

    Included
    • Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
    • Accommodations in hotel
    • Meals as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
    • All ground transportation and baggage handling from arrival until departure
    • All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
    Not Included
    • Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
    • Additional hotel nights outside the extension's scheduled dates
    • Optional gratuities to Trip Leader or staff
    • Optional travel insurance
    • Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
    • Visa fees
    • Any activities and services described as an upgrade or optional

    Accommodations

    Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

    Palau Carolines Resort

    Koror, Palau

    Days 1-3 (3 nights)

    Eight private bungalows with views of the rock islands across the bay are situated in a quiet spot where you'll awake to the warble of birds and the ocean breeze. Built from mahogany, mangrove, and bamboo, each bungalow features air conditioning, a separate sitting area, and a private bathroom. Several...

    Best Matched Trips

    Book your trip today

    Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

    Itinerary

    Submit the form below to download itinerary

    This field is hidden when viewing the form

    This field is hidden when viewing the form


    Trip Levels

    With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult.

    {"trip":{"TripID":10369,"Trip_Code":"PALAU5EX","Trip_Name":"Palau's Big Five Extension","TripYear":"2025","BrandName":"Wilderness Travel","BrandID":1,"Trip_Tag_Line":"see custom fields","Start_Location":"Koror, Palau","End_Location":"Koror, Palau","Number_Days":4,"Number_Nights":3,"DisplayOnWeb":true,"Book_On_Web":false,"Featured":false,"SpecialEvent":false,"BestSeller":false,"Short_Description":"<p>Our post-trip extension provides ample opportunities to see Palau&#39;s &#8220;Big Five&#8221;&mdash;pilot whales, spinner dolphins, dugongs, sharks, mantas&mdash;that are not normally seen in the areas we explore on our regular itinerary. Join us for what promises to be an exciting &#8220;safari&#8221; discovering some of Palau&#39;s most fascinating creatures!<\/p>","Long_Description":"<p><\/p>","ActivityHighlight":"see custom fields","TripType":"Extension","HeaderImage":"","HeaderImageAltTag":"","ThumbnailImage":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/trips\/thumb-PALAU5EX-palau-underwater-snorkeling-safari-manta-ray.jpg","MapImage":"","MapImageAltTag":"","FloatingImage":"","VideoLink":"","GroupSize":"","tripURL":"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.com\/trip\/palau-big-five-extension","ThisYear_Year":"2025","ThisYear_PriceDetails":"<div>From $2,295 per person, double occupancy<\/div><div>Solo Traveler: from $3,995<div><br><\/div><div><\/div><\/div>","ThisYear_PriceDetails2":"Single supplement: $395 (based on 2 or more participants)","Price":"2295","PriceWithFees":"2295","SingleSupplementPrice1":"0","SingleSupplementPrice2":"0","SingleSupplementPrice1Caption":"","SingleSupplementPrice2Caption":"","AirPrice":"0","AirPriceCaption":"","FeePrice1":"0","FeePrice2":"0","FeePrice3":"0","FeeName1":"","FeeName2":"","FeeName3":"","ShowNextYearsPrice":false,"NextYear_Year":"","NextYear_PriceDetails":"<div><br><\/div><div><div><br><\/div><div><\/div><\/div>","NextYear_PriceDetails2":"","PriceNextYear":"0","PriceWithFeesNextYear":"0","SingleSupplementPrice1NextYear":"0","SingleSupplementPrice2NextYear":"0","NextYearSingleSupplementPrice1Caption":"","NextYearSingleSupplementPrice2Caption":"","NextYearAirPriceCaption":"","AirPriceNextYear":"0","NextYearFeePrice1":"0","NextYearFeePrice2":"0","NextYearFeePrice3":"0","NextYearFeeName1":"","NextYearFeeName2":"","NextYearFeeName3":"","TripSavings":false,"TripSavingsDescription":"<p><\/p>","VariablePricing":false,"PricingNoteTitle":"<p><\/p>","PricingNotes":"<p><\/p>","NewTrip":false,"MinAge":0,"TripRatingID":7,"TripRatingName":"3","TravelFromDate":"2022-01-01","TravelToDate":"2050-12-31","BookFromDate":"2022-01-01","BookToDate":"2050-12-31","EventID":26,"EventName":"","AccountingGroup":"Pacific","DepositRule":2,"DepositAmt":"600","FinalDays":90,"AutoConfirm":false,"AutoConfirmAmount":"0","PrivateAvailable":true,"OperationMonths":"","AccmRating":"","TripStatus":"Active"},"itinerary":[{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":1,"Headline":"Dugongs and Crocodiles","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>We meet in the morning and depart Koror by boat in search of crocodiles within the labyrinth of islands of Nikko Bay (in a different area than the one we explored on the main trip). After lunch in a secluded cove, we'll slip into kayaks with the hopes of paddling with dugongs, the only remaining species of the serenia, or moon creatures, distant aquatic relatives of the elephant. These slow-moving marine mammals graze on sea grass in shallow waters along coastlines in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Their feeding style gives them their more common nickname: sea cow. We finish the day with a snorkel at Lolita's Coral Gardens. We return to the Palau Carolines Resort by speedboat. Dinner on your own and overnight at hotel...BL<\/body>","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Cetaceans","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<body>We're picked up by boat at 8:30 am and head out to the abyssal trenches on the east side of the archipelago where we hope to find spinner dolphins. We have excellent chances to spot these creatures as we cruise along: they frolic in the bow wake of the boat and often hang around for 30 minutes or more. In-water experiences with the spinners tend to be brief and our attempts will be based exclusively on their behavior. The primary goal of our day is to spot pilot whales, melon headed whales, false killer whales (all of these are known collectively as \"Black Fish\"), and potentially, sperm whales. All these cetaceans are highly social, ridiculously intelligent, and potentially curious. In-water experiences will be based on surface conditions and each guest's confidence in the open ocean environment. Additionally, we'll have hydrophones that help us pinpoint their locations. Return to Palau Carolines Resort for overnight...BL<\/body><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/>\n","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Mantas and Sharks","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<body>Today we head out through Ulong Channel and troll the open waters as we make our way to Ngemelis Island. Dolphin and whale encounters in this area are also quite common. We snorkel even more of the outer reef sites to include Shark City and New Drop Off, which are typically not included in our regular itinerary. As the afternoon incoming tide rolls in, we'll slip in the water at German Channel to witness the barrel rolling feeding behavior of giant mantas. During the mating season (highly variable, but typically covering about 3 months per year), the mantas collect in massive numbers (as many as 18 last year) and form what we call manta trains. All this feeding and courtship occurs just below the surface, so even snorkelers&mdash;and not just SCUBA divers&mdash;have good chances of witnessing this behavior. We return to the Palau Carolines Resort as the sun sets...BL<\/body><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/>\n","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":4,"Headline":"Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Transfer to the airport for homeward-bound flights...B<\/body>","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Snorkel and kayak to spot Palau&apos;s &ldquo;Big Five&rdquo;: pilot whales, spinner dolphins, dugongs, sharks, and mantas ","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":52603,"caption":"","video_link":""},{"DisplayOrder":10,"HighlightText":"","Description":"10-PALAU5EX-palau-underwater-snorkeling-safari-manta-ray.jpg","Image":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/trips\/10-PALAU5EX-palau-underwater-snorkeling-safari-manta-ray.jpg","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":18509,"caption":"","video_link":""}],"weather":[{}],"accommodations":[{"VendorID":72687,"Day_Number":1,"Sequence":10,"Duration":3,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Palau Carolines Resort","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"palau-carolines-resort","Custom_Location":"Koror"}}],"inclusions":[{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"E","Description":"Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"E","Description":"Additional hotel nights outside the extension's scheduled dates","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional gratuities to Trip Leader or staff","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional travel insurance","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"E","Description":"Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":6,"Type":"E","Description":"Visa fees","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":7,"Type":"E","Description":"Any activities and services described as an upgrade or optional","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"I","Description":"Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"I","Description":"Accommodations in hotel","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"I","Description":"Meals as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"I","Description":"All ground transportation and baggage handling from arrival until departure","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"I","Description":"All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""}],"destinations":[{"DestinationID":51,"Name":"Pacific","Type":"Region"},{"DestinationID":97,"Name":"Palau","Type":"Country"}],"activities":[{"ActivityID":219,"Name":"Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling","Primary":0},{"ActivityID":221,"Name":"Wildlife & Natural History","Primary":0}],"guides":[{}],"guestreviews":[{}],"Extensions":[{"TripID":10369,"ExtensionTripID":10331,"Trip_Code":"PALAU","Trip_Name":"Palau Snorkeling and Sea Kayaking"},{"TripID":10369,"ExtensionTripID":10274,"Trip_Code":"PJPALAU","Trip_Name":"Palau Private Journey"}],"SimilarTrips":[{}],"Specialists":[{}],"TripSegments":[{"VendorID":73414,"ProductID":84362,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Vendor Ops Payment","Vendor":"Planet Blue","Address1":"PO Box 3016","Address2":"","City":"Koror","State":"","Postal":"96940","Product":"Palau's Big Five Extension","Day":1,"Sequence":0,"Duration":3,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":11,"ProductID":54,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Single Supplement","Vendor":"Wilderness Travel","Address1":"1102 Ninth Street","Address2":"","City":"Berkeley","State":"CA","Postal":"94710","Product":"Single Supplement","Day":1,"Sequence":2,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"<p><\/p>","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":72687,"ProductID":82515,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Palau Carolines Resort","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Koror","State":"","Postal":"96940","Product":"Standard Room","Day":1,"Sequence":10,"Duration":3,"PropertyDescription":"<p>Eight private bungalows with views of the rock islands across the bay are situated in a quiet spot where you&#39;ll awake to the warble of birds and the ocean breeze. Built from mahogany, mangrove, and bamboo, each bungalow features air conditioning, a separate sitting area, and a private bathroom. Several of the bungalows also have a private balcony. Walk along the jungle path to the terrace and bar, and enjoy a continental breakfast delivered to your door each morning.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-palau-carolines-resort-amenities-exterior-landscape.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false}],"CustomFields":{"Custom_PDP_URL":"","Custom_TC_Detailed_Itin_URL":"","Custom_Trip_Name_Addendum":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Addendum":"","Custom_Trip_Level_5":"","Custom_Welcome_Email_Send_List":"","Custom_Welcome_Email-Insurance":"","Custom_FI_Note":"","Custom_FI_Optional_Donation_Text":"","Custom_Final_Docs_Letter_Send_List":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_TP_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Payment_Terms":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Reading_List":"","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"","Custom_Carry-On":"","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"","Custom_Daypack":"","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_ESC-Outfitter_Contacts_Left_Override":"","Custom_name_slug":"palau-big-five-extension","Custom_Meta_Description":"Amazing opportunity to see Palau&apos;s &ldquo;Big Five&rdquo;&mdash;pilot whales, spinner dolphins, dugongs, sharks, mantas&mdash;on this epic extension.","Custom_List_Description":"Amazing opportunity to see Palau&apos;s &ldquo;Big Five&rdquo;&mdash;pilot whales, spinner dolphins, dugongs, sharks, mantas&mdash;on this epic extension.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"","Custom_After_Dates":"","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"","Custom_Title_Tag":"Palau's Big Five Extension | Snorkel with Dolphins & Mantas","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_file_name":"","Custom_Passport":"","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"","Custom_Money":"","Custom_Tipping":"","Custom_Food":"","Custom_Communications":"","Custom_Electricity":"","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Covid-19":"","Custom_Reading_List":"","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"","Custom_Luggage":"","Custom_Clothing":"","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"","Custom_Optional_Items":"","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Snorkel with whales, dolphins, dugongs, sharks & mantas<\/body>","Custom_Lodging":"3 nights hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included except dinners","Custom_Difficulty":"Snorkeling, boating","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Header":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Text":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"","Custom_Terrain":"","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"","Custom_Accommodations":"","Custom_Cuisine":"","Custom_Transportation":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"<p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer a plan designed for Wilderness Travel and provided by Travelex. Please visit our Travel Insurance <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/resources\/travel-insurance\/\">webpage<\/a> for more information. You can purchase travel insurance with your final payment using the link above. <\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Portal_Help":" If you're experiencing any issues with accessing your portal or completing your online forms, please refer to the sections below for assistance. For further support, contact us at <strong>1-800-368-2794<\/strong>.<div><br><\/div><div><strong>Issues Accessing Forms<\/strong><br>If you are having issues accessing or completing your forms we suggest trying two things:<div><br><\/div><div>\t1. Update Your Browser:<div><br><\/div><div>The portal works best using Chrome or Firefox. Please make sure you are using the latest version of either program.<div><br><\/div><div>\t2. Clear Your Browser Cache:<div><br><\/div><div>How to clear your cache (depending on the browser):<div><div><br><\/div><div>Chrome:<br>\t1. Click the 3 dots (top right of your screen) &gt; Click on History &gt; Click Clear browsing data on the left sidebar<br>\t2. In the popup that appears, select a &ldquo;time range&rdquo; and the option Cookies and Other site data &gt; Click Clear Data<div><br><\/div><div>Firefox:<br>\t1. Click the 3 vertical lines (top right of your screen) &gt; Library &gt; History &gt; Clear Recent History<br>\t2. In the popup that appears, select a &ldquo;time range&rdquo; and the options Cookies, Cache, etc. &gt; Click Clear Now<div><br><\/div><div>Safari:<br>\t1. Press Command+Y &gt; Clear Browser History<br>\t2. In the popup that appears, select the time range &gt; Click Clear History<div><br><\/div><div>Microsoft Edge:<br>\t1. Click the 3 dots (top right) &gt; Settings &gt; Privacy, Search, &amp; Services<br>\t2. Under &ldquo;Clear browsing data,&rdquo; select Cookies and Cached files &gt; Click Clear<div><br><\/div><div>If you are still having issues, we apologize! Just let us know and we will send you the forms as fillable Adobe PDF documents instead. <\/div><div><br><\/div><div><strong>Submitting Forms<\/strong><br><ul>\t<li>Please Click &ldquo;Complete Form&rdquo; to submit your form<\/li>\t<li>&ldquo;Save for Later&rdquo; will save a draft if you need to return later. But reminder that our office will not receive the form until you click &ldquo;Complete&rdquo;<\/li>\t<li>Terms &amp; Conditions Form - Please remember to first submit your signature and then click the &ldquo;Complete&rdquo; button to submit.<\/li><\/ul><div><strong>Making a Partial Payment<\/strong><\/div><ul>\t<li>The &ldquo;Pay this Amount&rdquo; field is editable. If you wish to make a partial payment or split a payment across multiple credit cards, you can edit the amount to pay to a partial amount, and then return to the same screen to pay the balance remaining.<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Mandatory_Emergency_Evacuation_Insurance":"Please note: Insurance for emergency medical evacuation is required for this trip. Wilderness Travel offers a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan through Travelex Insurance that meets this requirement. For more details, visit our website: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a>. Alternatively, you can purchase a different policy on your own, as long as it includes emergency medical evacuation coverage of at least $250,000 per person. You can compare options at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.insuremytrip.com\">insuremytrip.com<\/a>.","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option crafted by our Area Specialists to showcase the best of each destination. While many travelers book this tour as is, our specialists can help customize it to fit your interests and travel style. We can adjust the duration, add extensions, include special activities, and customize excursions. Contact us to explore your options!","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"Early reservations are recommended as accommodations can sell out quickly. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred travel dates and how many people will be in your group so we can check availability and send you a proposal itinerary with pricing. We can hold a provisional booking for one week, after which a deposit is required to secure your spot. Once we receive your deposit, we'll send a Welcome Packet with your confirmation letter, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet. See our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for payment details. If you have any questions, or wish to start the booking process, please call 1-800-368-2794 or email ","System_Trip_Leaders":"<p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific departures they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>At time of reservation: $600<br>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!<br>61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost<br>46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>45 days or less: 100% of trip cost<br><\/p>"}}