What You Need to Know About Tailor-Made Adventures
What is a tailor-made adventure?
A tailor-made adventure means that we create a bespoke tour itinerary specifically for you. Based on your individual interests, travel style, and timing, our expert Destination Specialists work with you to curate your dream trip. There are no set departure dates. You travel where you want, how you want, when you want, and with whom you want. Nearly everything about the trip can be customized to your needs.
What is a private guided adventure?
At Vaya Adventures, we forgo big tour groups and tour buses. Instead, you can expect private tours and unique experiences led by superb expert local guides. Enjoy one-on-one service, expert attention to detail, freedom to do what you want, flexibility to do what you need, and a one-of-a-kind travel experience.
How does the planning process work?
The best way to begin the planning process is to speak with one of our Destination Specialists about your interests, timing, travel style, and more. You can request a quote online or call us: Our general phone is 1-800-342-1796 and offices are open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST.
After we learn about your likes, dislikes, and travel preferences, an initial itinerary will be sent to you. From there, we’ll work with you to edit and refine your trip plan until it’s exactly what you want!
Why should I book with Vaya Adventures?
- Expertise: For over 20 years we have specialized in crafting unique, immersive travel experiences with an emphasis on memorable, one-of-a-kind adventures.
- Personalization: We focus on tailoring trips to your preferences, ensuring your itinerary matches your interests and travel style.
- Quality Relationships: We partner with only the best, most-trusted local guides, ensuring high standards and enriching cultural experiences. We also work with a carefully curated portfolio of the world’s finest small hotels, eco-lodges, safari camps, and boutique properties.
- Sustainable Travel: We believe in responsible tourism practices, helping to support local communities and preserve the environment. We look for and use industry leaders in sustainability initiatives so that our incredible travel destinations are preserved for generations to come.
- Comprehensive Support: Experience 24/7 support throughout your journey, giving you peace of mind to enjoy every moment of your vacation.
What is included in the cost of your vacation packages?
All Vaya Adventures include accommodations, local private guides, drivers, vehicles, airport transfers, and some meals and internal flights. Your itinerary will clearly highlight all included services.
What are the departure dates for the tours on your website?
With tailor-made adventures there are no set departure dates or times. Almost all our tours worldwide can be shifted to match your personal timing. While our small ship adventure cruises (such as in the Galapagos and the Amazon) and our Polar cruises do have fixed departures, we have a large portfolio of options, so we can generally find a date that will work for you!
Are these group tours?
Most of our itineraries are private tours just for you and the friends and family traveling with you. The exception is small ship cruises, where your daily excursions are sometimes with fellow travelers. Don’t worry: These are not large group tours but very intimate smaller groups – many of our travelers make new friends by the end of their journey!
Prefer to have your cruise in private as well? Ask about chartering a Galapagos or Amazon vessel for you and your companions. Want private excursions at a lodge? At many lodges you can also request private excursions just for you and your family or friends. Ask your Destination Specialist for more information.
Are these guided trips?
Most of the excursions on a Vaya Adventures tour are led by expert private local guides. However, the level of activities and freedom/solo exploration on any given itinerary can be adjusted to your personal preference.
Will I have the same guide throughout my trip?
We are active in giving back to the destinations where we run trips, and over the years have raised and contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to worthy local causes in our destinations. By using smaller boutique properties and lodges and local well paid guides, we ensure that we add positively to the destinations we serve.
Are meals included in the trip?
When it makes sense, and you’re in remote locations, or if there is only one great place to eat, your meals will be included. In other areas, we recommend the freedom to explore and try different restaurants, cuisines, and dining experiences. Our Destination Specialists and your private guides will give you local restaurant recommendations. All the hotels we work with provide breakfast.
Is international airfare included in the cost of trips?
Many of our clients prefer to book their international airfare themselves, as they often have miles or relationships with certain airlines. That said, we can send you a flight quote for your international and local airfare. Just let your Destination Specialist know that you are interested in a quote for your international flights.
Can Vaya assist with my visa and other entry requirements?
Vaya has a network of industry leaders who can assist with obtaining any required visas. If you need assistance with any visas, just ask, and we will connect you!
Does Vaya offer travel insurance?
Vaya is not a travel insurer, but we suggest several companies that our travelers have found useful through the years. Please click here for more information.
Why should I buy travel insurance?
Travel insurance provides essential protection against unexpected events like trip cancellation, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays. Knowing you’re covered for unforeseen circumstances that could disrupt your travel plans gives you peace of mind. See our Terms and Conditions here.