SOUTH INDIA TEMPLES AND SPICES 17 DAYS / 16 NIGHTS Itinerary as of June 10, 2012 Visit us at www.wildland.com
The Itinerary Journey from east to west across three states through Southern India from the beaches on the Bay of Bengal across the subcontinent to the Malabar backwaters of Cochin. Visit temples, forts, and palaces spanning more than 2000 years of Indian history. We connect with local people along the way in rural villages Tamil Nadu, bazaars, spiritual centers, tea and spice plantations of the Western Ghats, artisan workshops, and southern kitchens throughout the region to discover perspectives that enrich our lives and those of our hosts. Venture by jeep and boat safaris through Periyar National Park that protects large herds of wild elephant, abundant bird species, and other denizens of the jungle. Stay in waterfront accommodations on the coasts, at a working tea and spice plantation, a restored mansion of a bygone era, and kick back in a private houseboat in state of Kerala where you can enjoy Ayurvedic spa services, and some of the most sumptuous selections of coastal cuisine in the world. DAY OVERNIGHT HOTEL MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 CHENNAI The Trident Hotel Transfer in to hotel. 2 MAHABALIPURAM Fisherman s Cove B 3 MAHABALIPURAM Fisherman s Cove B 4 PONDICHERRY De L Orient Hotel B 5 THANJAVUR Sangam Hotel B 6 THANJAVUR Sangam Hotel B 7 CHETTINADU Chettinadu Mansion B 8 MADURAI Heritage Palace B 9 MADURAI Heritage Palace B 10 MUNNAR Windermere Estate BLD 11 12 PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK 13 KUMARAKOM 14 KOCHI (COCHIN) 15 MUMBAI 16 MUMBAI Spice Village Spice Village Private Houseboat: CGH Earth Spice or Kumarakom Lake CGH Brunton Boatyard Taj Mahal Palace Sea Facing Taj Mahal Palace Sea Facing B B BLD 17 DEPART B B B B Chennai city, museum, markets, and temples. PM drive to Mahabalipuram. Full day sightseeing tour of Kancheepuram and Mahabalipuram and temples Drive to Pondicherry. Visit Auroville, Sri Aurobhindo Ashram. Drive to Thanjavur visiting temples and villages en route. Brihadeshwara Temple and palace. Trichy and vicinity tour and temples. Walking tour of Chittinadu. PM drive to Madurai. Madurai city and temples tour. Drive to Munnar. Relax at cardamom estate. AM spice and nature walk. PM drive to Periyar and game drive. Morning boat safari and PM walking excursion in community plantations. Drive toputthengadi. Overnight houseboat cruise through backwaters. Drive to Kochi. Afternoon free and PM dance performance. Tour Cochin city. PM transfer to airport for flight to Mumbai (or Delhi) Elephant caves and city tour. Transfer to airport for onward flight.
Itinerary in Detail DAY 1: ARRIVE CHENNAI Arrive at the Chennai International Airport and transfer to hotel. Overnight at Trident Hotel (Deluxe). DAY 2: CHENNAI TO MAHABALIPURAM Morning sightseeing tour of Chennai city visiting museums to see the art and bronze gallery (Closed on public holidays). Drive through the flower and fruit market, high court, fort museum, Marina Beach, San Thome Cathedral and Kapaleeshwar Temple. In the afternoon transfer from Chennai to Mahabalipuram (60 km/1 hr 15 minutes). Overnight Taj Fisherman s Cove (Superior Charm Sea View). [B] DAY 3: MAHABALIPURAM KANCHEEPURAM Full day sightseeing tour of Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram. Visit the temples of Kanchipuram including the 16th ACE Ekambasreshwar Temple, Kamakshi Temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, and Vaikunta Perumal Temple. Kanchipuram is also famous for its hand woven saris, presenting an opportunity to learn more about silk saris and other locally produced garments. This afternoon explore Mahabalipuram, located on the Coromandel Coast facing the Bay of Bengal. A well established sea port during the 7th and 10th centuries of the Pallava Dynasty, this was the second capital of the Pallavas who ruled Kanchipuram. The name Mahabalipurnam, has a history. In a fierce battle King Mahabali was killed by Lord Vishnu and the place was named after the dead and once arrogant king. Visit Shore Temple, Arjuna s Penance and various Mandapams. Overnight Taj Fisherman s Cove (Superior Charm Sea View). [B] DAY 4: PONDICHERRY Drive to Pondicherry (132 kms/4 hrs) a former French Colony. The French ruled this territory for 300 years, and today it remains as a living monument of the French culture in India. Located 160 kms south of Chennai on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. Pondicherry is a beautiful settlement with a strong spiritual element. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the town. Visit Auroville (City of Dawn), an experimental neighborhood founded by Ms. Mirra Richard also known as Mother. Auroville is meant to be a universal town where men and women of all persuasions and origins are meant to live in peace and harmony above all creeds, politics and nationalities. The purpose of Auroville is to realize human unity. Also visit the Sri Aurobhindo Ashram founded by Sri Aurobhindo, a Bengal revolutionary and philosopher who struggled bitterly for freedom against the British Empire. After his death, the ashram was run by the Mother - the chief disciple of Aurobindo
whereby its spiritual foundation is a metaphysical melding of yoga and modern science. Overnight at De L Orient Hotel. [B] Day 5: Thanjavur Kumbakonam Morning drive to Thanjavur (160 km/3 hrs driving time) visiting Chidambaram, Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram en route. Chidambaram Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the heart of the temple town of Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu. There have been several renovations in its history, particularly during the days of the Pallava/Chola emperors in ancient and pre-medieval periods. Our next stop, the ancient town of Gangai Konda Cholapuram, an hour's drive from Chidambram, was the capital of the Cholas until their fall in the 13th century. The Gangai Konda Cholapuram Temple was built in the 11th C, to commemorate Chola King's conquest up to the Gangetic plain. Lavishly sculpted with beautiful stone sculptures including a dancing Ganesha, a lion headed wall and a stunning freeze depicting Rajendra being crowned by Siva and Parvati, the temple is one of the most ancient temples of Tamil Nadu built in the Chola style. Continue to Thanjavur visiting Darasruam Temple. With 18 temples in its town center, Kumbakonam is the famous temple town of South India picturesquely situated amidst the Cauvery and Arasalar rivers. The town is famous for the Mahamaham festival that is celebrated once every 12 years. Known for production of brass vessels and silk weaving, this is primarily a market town for the predominantly agriculture-based rural villages. The Darasuram Temple is a 'sculptor's dream in stone', among the most well-preserved examples of 12th C Chola architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afternoon arrival at Thanjavur and overnight at Sangam Hotel. [B] DAY 6: THANJAVUR Morning visit to the Brihadeshwara Temple (35 km/45 minutes) a UNESCO World Heritage Site also called the Big Temple built by King Raja Raja Chola. The main shrine of this temple is Lord Brahadeeswarar (Shiva). The Shiva Linga of Brahadeeswara is probably the grandest in existence. An architectural wonder of the world, the massive Nandhi tower weighs 25 tons and is the second biggest Nandhi in India. The palace is 1 Km from the temple, built by Nayakas around 1550 ACE and finished by Marathas. With huge corridors, spacious halls, observational and arsenal towers and shady courtyards, the total area of the place is around 10 acres. Inside the palace you find the King Saroboji Saraswathi Mahal Library, art gallery and Sangeetha Mahal. Overnight at Sangam Hotel. [B] DAY 7: TRICHY CHETTINADU Drive from Thanjavur to Chettinadu (total 135 km) en route traveling to Trichy to visit the Rangnathswamy Temple and Rock Fort Temple. The latter stands 83m high, perched on a huge rocky outcrop. The temple complex is composed of two parts - a Shiva temple carved in the middle of the rock and a Ganesh temple at the top portion of the rock. The Ganesh temple is much smaller with access through steep steps carved on the rock and provides a stunning view of Trichy, Srirangam and the rivers Kaveri and Kollidam. The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple (7 km from Trichy) is an important
pilgrimage site and an exclusive Vaishnavite landmark. Srirangam looks like an island surrounded by the Cauvery and Kollidam rivers on either side. This temple s Rajagopuram is the highest tower in south India and can be seen for many miles. Continue drive to Chettinad (85 km / 2hrs), the land of Nattukottai Chettiars, famous for its fortress-like homes and temples that are architectural marvels, equivalent to Trichy, Madurai and Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. Upon arrival at Chettinad, checking into the Chettinadu Mansion heritage hotel is like stepping back in time. The Chettiars belong to a lineage of wealthy traders and financiers who made their fortunes by extending their business to the whole of Southeast Asia, particularly during the 19th century when they were at the peak of their economic power. As a result of their traveling, the Chettiars integrated diverse influences into their traditions which contributed to their uniqueness. The houses, which evolved over two centuries, are veritable palaces, and our hotel, The Chettinadu Mansion is one of the most impressive of the many heritage homes of the Chettiars. This small town is equally famous for its astrological explorations and exquisite Chettinadu cuisine. Overnight at Chettinadu Mansion. [B] DAY 8: CHETTINADU MADURAI Chettinadu is a region where a strong culture has been preserved by the Chettiar community which is organized around 9 clan temples. Each member of the Chettiar community belongs to a clan and each clan has its own temple run by its own committee. Enjoy a relaxed morning to learn more about the community before driving to Madurai. (80 km/2 hrs) Madurai is one of the oldest cities of India, dating back to the Sangam Period of the pre-christian era. This was the Golden age of Tamil literature when Madurai was the seat of the Tamil Sangam or academy of learning. In the afternoon, enjoy time to wander and explore Madurai s extensive and vibrant bazaar, a bustling produce, spice and textile market with a fascinating array of emporiums. Each evening at the Shree Meenakshi Temple a Closing Ceremony takes place at 11:30pm in which an image of the God Shiva is carried in procession to Parvati s bedroom, where it remains until being ceremonially escorted back at 6:00am the next morning. We return from the vegetable market in time to participate in this remarkable ceremony, watch the procession of the god, and walk amongst the devotees. This is one of India s most memorable experiences. Overnight at Heritage Palace (Deluxe Club). [B] DAY 9: MADURAI In the morning light we proceed into the heart of Madurai to view the mighty Shree Meenakshi Temple (1560 ACE), the heart and living symbol of Madurai s centuries old tradition as the cultural center of the Tamil people. Dedicated to Lord Shiva or Sundareswara and his consort, you will be amazed by the Gopuram (rising tower entrance) and amazing architecture. Also visit Tirumalai Nayak Palace, built by Thirumalai Nayak and designed by an Italian. Afternoon visit Koodal Azhagar Temple. 21 kms in rural hinterlands from Madurai, it has a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. On the festive day, the image of Azhgar is taken in a procession to the river Vaiga to participate in the marriage of Meenakshi and Sundareswara. Overnight at Heritage Palace (Deluxe Club). [B] DAY 10: MUNNAR TEA GARDENS Morning drive to Munnar (160 km/5-6 hrs). Situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathani and Kundala in the Western Ghats, Munnar is considered the abode of natural purity. Sitting high on the observatory hill at 1600m above sea level, this charming retreat is set amidst a cardamom estate surrounded by tea clad hills and tropical forests. Visit tea gardens of Munnar where you will also have opportunity to buy some spices and tea locally. Your accommodation at Windermere Estate is set amongst the manicured tea gardens and lush green forests of Western Ghats. The presence of the
planter's family next door ensures a truly local experience devoid of a hotel atmosphere. Overnight at Windermere Estate. [BLD] DAY 11: PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK Early this morning take a cardamom and nature walk organized by a Windermere naturalist guide. (4km/ 2hr) Cardomom is cultivated under the shade of a vast variety of evergreen trees. Later drive from Munnar to Periyar (110 km/4 hrs). Periyar National Park is situated in the lush green hills, lakes and rivers of the Western Ghats. The core feature of the park is the 5500-hectare Periyar Lake - a rich habitat for large mammals. Here it is possible to see large herds of Indian elephant as well as nilgiri langur, an Old World primate. There are more than 30 species of mammals including tiger, gaur (Indian bison) and sloth bear. The birdlife is vibrant and includes numerous aquatic species and the great Indian hornbill. Afternoon game viewing by boat on Lake Periyar. Overnight at Spice Village (Standard Villa). [B] DAY 12: PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK Morning game viewing by boat on Lake Periyar. This afternoon enjoy a walking excursion amongst local people working in local plantations. This region is famous for cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, coffee and tea estates. Overnight at Spice Village (Standard Villa). [B] DAY 13: BACKWATER HOUSEBOAT Transfer to Putthengadi (150 km/3 hrs) where the backwaters is one of the highlights of a visit to Kerala. Fringing the coast and winding far inland is a vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast (known as the Malabar Coast) and extending virtually the entire length of Central Kerala. These backwaters represent a unique geographical formation and are the basis of a distinct life style to be explored by water. Overnight on board Kumarakom Lake Resort/CGH Earth AC Houseboat. [BLD] DAY 14: KOCHI (COCHIN) Cruise the backwaters and at 10am disembark from the houseboat for the drive to Kochi (110 km/ 2 hrs). Kochi (colonial name Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala. Its strategic importance over the centuries is underlined by its location on the Arabian Sea. In the evening visit the Kathakali Dance theatre studio for a live performance of the famous Kathkali, a traditional dance form of Kerala with impressive facial expressions, hand gestures and dance moves that leave one spellbound. Overnight at CGH Earth Brunton Boatyard (Standard Sea Facing Room). [B]
DAY 15: COCHIN MUMBAI A local resident guide leads a morning sightseeing excursion of Cochin city visiting Bolghatty Palace, St Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace (Mattencherry) and any other sights or activities of interest including Chinese Fishing Nets. Afternoon transfer to airport for flight to Mumbai. 9W 404 Cochin-Mumbai 1605/1745 hrs. Transfer to overnight at Taj Mahal Palace (Tower Wing, Std Sea Facing) [B] DAY 16: MUMBAI ELEPHANT CAVES Morning excursion to Elephanta Caves (Closed on Mondays). Across the Bombay Harbor is the world famous 1200 year old Elephanta Caves, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The famous sculpture signifying the trinity of the Creator, the Preserver and the Destroyer are located here. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Mumbai possibly including Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum, Kamla Nehru Park, and the hanging gardens situated on the slopes of Malabar Hill offering a panoramic view of Marine Drive, Chowpatty Beach, Mani Bhawan, Dhobi Ghat and drive through the Crawford Market. Overnight at Taj Mahal (Tower Wing, Std Sea Facing). [B] DAY 17: DEPART Transfer to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport for onward departure. [B] END OF SERVICES Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives.
PRICING PER PERSON IN DOUBLE: GROUP SIZE 2-6 7-9 10+ Land Cost $5595 $4995 $4550 Domestic Flights $175 $ 175 $175 *Groups of 2-3 are met by local expert guides in each location, groups of 4 or more include a guide accompanying the group throughout the itinerary. Prices valid through 30 April, 2013. Additional charges may apply for holiday departures between December 20, 2012 and January 10, 2013. Airfare is estimated and subject to change until purchased. SCHEDULED DEPARTURE DATES:* 2012 2013 October 20-November 5 January 12-28 November 10-20 February 9-25 December 22-January 7 March 16-April 1 *Also available as private, custom trip on request based on availability. INCLUDED SERVICES Accommodations on twin share bed and breakfast basis as listed English speaking driver and A/C Tata Indigo (2-3), Toyota Innova (4-6) or van/minibus for group Local on site guides in cities/resorts and resident naturalists in Periyar National Park Local guided tours and excursions including entrance fees Transportation as described including airport-hotel transfers, land, boat, and jeep Complimentary water during all transfers, drives and sightseeing Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services NOT INCLUDED SERVICES Domestic airfare (listed separately) India Visa (US citizens must obtain an India visa in advance) Airport taxes Tips and gratuities Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than listed above Personal expenses for extra services, optional activities, or changes beyond our control Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services, or evacuation Camera or video fees Any other items not mentioned above
Accommodations TRIDENT HOTEL, CHENNAI Located conveniently close to the airport, the Trident, Chennai welcomes its guests for a relaxing stay. Set amongst five acres of lush, tropical gardens, the elegant low-rise hotel caters to the business community and leisure travelers with 167 rooms, business facilities, bar, restaurants, gymnasium and spa. Take a dip in the pool or sample Coastal Indian cuisine at their Samudra Restaurant. TAJ FISHERMAN S COVE, MAHABALIPURAM Built on the ramparts of an old Dutch fort, Taj Fisherman s Cove is almost one with the Bay of Bengal. Superior Charm - Sea View rooms are located in the main resort building overlooking the beautiful Bay of Bengal. With the sea as a backdrop, enjoy imaginative cuisine at the Bay View, where fresh sea food is celebrated in an open air surrounding or try the Upper Deck - the stylish Mediterranean restaurant for candlelit, alfresco dining overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Blending ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary therapies, Jiva Spa offers the best in Indian rejuvenation therapies ranging from Indian aromatherapy massages, time-honoured Indian treatments, body scrubs and wraps. DE L ORIENT HOTEL, PONDICHERRY Acquired in 1998 for restoration as a hotel, the mansion which houses the Hotel de L Orient dates back to the late 1760 s. The aim of the restoration was to recreate the 18th century aura. Wherever possible, the old Chettinad plaster was retained; the red oxide flooring was repaired, and the wooden planks on the high doors and windows were retained or replaced by new panels made of old wood. The 16 rooms now all airconditioned each have modern amenities and ensuite bathrooms. The courtyard, in the center of the property, links the street with the dining room and serves as a stage for cultural performances. SANGAM HOTEL, THANJAVUR Sangam Hotel is a great base from which to explore vibrant Thanjavur, with the city center only 1km away. Hotel accommodations have been carefully appointed with coffee/tea maker, bathrobes, complimentary bottled water, shower, television and LCD/plasma screen in each room. The hotel offers an excellent variety of recreational facilities, including a pool and fitness center. Enjoy Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisine in the hotel restaurant.
CHETTINADU MANSION, CHETTINADU Chettinadu Mansion was built in 1902 and is now a spectacular heritage hotel still run by the original owners. This residence offers comfortable accommodation in 11 guest rooms. Extending over 40,000 sq ft rooms are embellished in Burmese teak, Italian marble and English steel. Its sheer size including the marriage hall, pillars, beautiful balconies, and hidden lofts are features typical of a bygone era of gracious living. Facilities include swimming pool, library, a museum, and home-style dining room serving typical cuisine of the Chettinadu kitchen. HERITAGE PALACE, MADURAI Heritage Madurai rings with historic charm that echoes in every hallway and every room. Lounge by the Olympic-sized temple tank pool, dine under a 200 year old banyan tree serenaded by bird calls or take a leisurely historic walk through the corridors where every stone has a story to tell. Spacious, airy rooms encompass detailed sitting areas, luxurious bedrooms and large bathrooms, all decorated with understated elegance. WINDERMERE ESTATE, MUNNAR Windermere Estate is where manicured tea gardens merge with the lush green forests of western ghats. Hallmarked for its exclusiveness and high range hospitality, Windermere is a 60 acre Cardamom Plantation. The presence of the Planter's family next door ensures security and local advice devoid of a hotel atmosphere. Stay in rooms set in verdant gardens with a lavish veranda and typical plantation home interior having a view of the Chithirapuram valley below. Cuisine is traditional Malayali, Oriental, continental and family recipes. SPICE VILLAGE, TEKKADY Located in Kumily, a small settlement 3k from Thekkady, the main entrance to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the 5 star Spice Village offers delightful cottages with thatched roofs of elephant grass set in a pepper plantation. Opened in 1992, a unique selection of regional spices has been planted amongst the cottages creating an authentic spice hills environment. Resort facilities include a restaurant, swimming pool, laundry service, money exchange etc. All rooms have terracotta floor tiles and furniture crafted using pine from Cochin's historic docks. Each cottage has its own verandah in its own land.
CGH EARTH HOUSEBOAT Inspired by the spacious open design of a rice barge, the CGH Earth spice coast kettuvallom is fitted for comfort and privacy with tilled bathrooms and shower. Solar cells on the roof power lights and fans. The fore deck is spacious for lounging in the shade on wicker armchairs or sunning on deck. Enjoy the open air ambiance and wide views of the surrounding backwaters dining al fresco on delightful meals prepared by your cook. A typical evening's fare may start with 'kootu', lentils and gourd, stirred with cracked pepper and tangy mustard seeds, then garnished with fresh roasted coconut shreds, followed by freshcaught grilled karimeen fish marinated in red chilies served with local prawns. (Sleeps 2-3) KUMARAKOM LAKE RESORT HOUSEBOAT Distinguished as one of the most luxurious houseboats in the backwaters, the Kumarakom Lake Resort vessel has an air conditioned dining hall with full glass facade facilitating a 360 degree view of the backwaters helping to beat the midday heat. Cabin interior is spacious and well appointed with windows that open to the outside and private bath with shower. Your personal chef serves the best Keralan cuisine. (Sleeps 2-4) BRUNTON BOATYARD COCHIN, MALABAR A rich, and colorful history marks the hotel, once the century old boatyard of Geo. Brunton and Sons. They have recreated the splendor of the city's illustrious past, using the materials of fin de sieclé Cochin - lime, terracotta, wood and tile. All of the Brunton Boatyard Hotel's 22 rooms overlook the sea, as do the en-suite bathrooms. Enjoy a soak in your tub watching the dolphins amongst the trading ships. Enjoy the pool and exceptional cuisine with recipes originating from natural ingredients and spices of the region. TAJ MAHAL PALACE, MUMBAI The history of Mumbai and The Taj Mahal Palace are dramatically intertwined. The hotel is Mumbai s first harbour landmark (built 21 years before the Gateway of India) and the site of the first licensed bar in the city. For more than a century, the Taj has played an intrinsic part in the life of the city, hosting Maharajas, dignitaries and eminent personalities from across the globe. Today it is a Leading Hotel of the World and favorite destination for discerning travellers. Overlooking the Gateway of India with a panoramic view of the bay, every one of the 560 rooms are the perfect blend of rich history and modern convenience. In the 1970s The Taj expanded to open the doors of the adjacent Tower wing. In contrast to the Palace wing, the Tower wing is newer and orderly, with a combination of European and Indian architecture.
Booking your Wildland Adventure HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling 1-800-345-4453. Your space on a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and submit a Release of Liability. Deposit requirements are as follows:* $500 per person for all trips in Central America. $700 per person for all trips in South America, the Middle East, Asia and the Far East, the Mediterranean and North America. 20% of land cost for all trips in Africa. This deposit is generally non-refundable. *Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered, or if permits to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance. CUSTOM TRAVEL This trip isn t exactly what you re looking for? We are happy to design a private custom itinerary to accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at 1-800-345-4453, send an email to info@wildland.com, or use the Ask The Program Director button on the trip itinerary page on our website. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators: Days Prior to Departure: Fee per person 91 or more: $300 61-90 days: Initial deposit amount 31-60 days: 50% of land cost 30 or less: 100% of land cost PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Predeparture Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure. REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS Have any questions or concerns? Call us a 1-800-345-4453 or email info@wildland.com. We re here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local incountry ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary. It is however possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality. (If upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions