caravan travel times

RV Caravan Tours

Latest Posts

Best State to Buy an RV In to Save Money [Fees & Deals] -
A Guide to Cooking Lobster Tails on a BBQ (Without Ruining Them) -
PUMPKIN BUTTERSCOTCH SKILLET COOKIE (GF) -

Wagonmaster

Most RV caravans have a Wagonmaster who heads out first ensuring all reservations for RV Parks or excursions are ready for their customers when they arrive. The RV owners are given advice as to what direction, the best route, sights to see along the way and given a suggested arrival time at that days destination.

Following the group is a tail gunner who follows along to ensure anyone with any difficulty whether it is regarding breakdowns or accidents are given the services they need to continue with the tour. The tail gunner is most often an experienced mechanic or Rver with tools and skills to assist as much as possible. This ensures no one in the group is left sitting along a highway with a breakdown and not able to communicate their need to the group.

Price Includes

Of course each RV caravan tour company is different but for the most part RV Park fees and reservations are included in the tour price. Some other features usually included are:

Trip logs (maps)
Services of Wagonmaster and Tailgunner
Emergency medical assistance insurance
Fees for border crossings and visas
Side excursions (pre-arranged)
Organized social hours at the end of each day
Trip preparation packet and check list

They do NOT include the cost of the RV if you are renting one, fuel, food and personal expenses. When booking your trip ask questions and be sure you know exactly what you are getting for your money.

Although we have not utilized the services of the following companies my research has indicated that they are reputable and reliable. Do your own research also and see if they offer what you may be looking for.

Adventure Caravans – USA, Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Overseas

Fantasy RV Tours – Alaska, USA, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Europe

Baja and Back RV Caravan Tours – Mexican Baja – No longer in business

Baja Amigos RV Caravan Tours – Mexican Baja

Happy travels,

19 thoughts on “RV Caravan Tours”

Very good post. I will be experiencing some of these issues as well..

how or where do I get information on renting a motorhome for a trial run for retirement and join a caravan for an initial experience

Hi Joel, Thanks for your inquiry – here’s a link to a few articles I’ve written on renting an RV. I hope you find them helpful. If not, please email me again with specifics and I’ll do my best to help you. Renting an RV Carol Ann

We are planning to travel to New Zealand to rent motorhomes with another couple in March 2016. Tracks to Adventure no longer seems to exist as a separate entity and that leaves only Fantasy, however their tour includes Australia, not a problem for us but our friends have not shown any interest in that part.

Are you aware of any NZ only caravan packages offered there that we might look into. Web search is daunting as there are so many offers that it is confusing. As an alternative we might consider just doing it the way we travel the US – on our own.

Hi Paul, Nice to hear from you. I am not aware of specific caravan companies in NZ but will see what I can come up with. Maybe one of our readers may be able to help us. Will let you know if I find anything.

Paul, my husband and I rented RV’s in New Zealand for 6 weeks and traveled both islands on our own. Even though we had never experienced a motorhome before, we found it very delightful. The people there are so very friendly and helpful, and we felt very safe. I had written an extensive blog on the journey if you care to read it http://www.TravelTalesOfNormAndAlison.com Click the Tab on New Zealand 2009, then Click on the down arrows on the right, and read the blog from the bottom up. ( The blog is posted most recent entries on top ). Don’t be afraid to do this on your own.

Are you still traveling? If you are interested in writing a post about your travels I may post it on my blog with a link within your bio to your own blog. If interested let me know. Thank you.

We are planning 2 longer (54 days & 82 day)Mexican caravans this season (2014/2015), both will include Copper Canyon & the Monarch Butterfly preserve. Itinerary is at http://www.mexicorvbuddies.com/itinerary.php

Thanks for the information Paul, I would be interested in learning more about your tours – why don’t you put together something telling us about Mexico and we can share it with those readers who are interested in learning more. To everyone, I have not participated or have any affiliation with this tour group but am willing to learn more. Anyone else?

First of all, Baja & Back is now out of business. Barry Monkman tragically died of a heart attack, & his wife, Vonda, decided not to carry on.

This spring a new company is doing a 71 day tour of Mexico’s west coast as far as Puerto Vallarta. It includes tours of Copper Canyon & much more. Starts Jan 12, 2013. See http://www.mexicorvbuddies.com . The caravan will be escorted by The Green Angels and led by an experienced Wagon Master couple. Since this is the first trip for this company (They have organized caravans in Quebec for 25 years), the price is only $3350 per rig, about 1/2 the cost of other competitors.

Thanks for the update Paul. I knew that Barry had passed away and am really sorry for his wife and family. I will remove their link from my list since Vonda has decided not to continue with the business.

Thanks for the link to your site – I have no problem sharing it with my readers. Good luck with it and please keep in touch and let us know how it is doing.

Yes it was a shock, Vonda & I grew up in the same small town in northern BC (Smithers) and I knew both of them well.

Do you have a catalogue of the travels planned for the next few years. If so I would like to have one mailed to me.

Gloria Macdonald 4842 Highway 215,R.R.# 1, Noel, Nova Scotia, B0N 2C0.

Hi Gloria, Not sure if I understand your request but I am a travel writer and not an agency. If you are interested in learning more about my travels or the RV Lifestyle please sign up on the right hand side of the home page on my site and I will definitely keep you up to date on whats happening. Sorry I can’t help you more than that. Happy travels, Carol Ann http://roamingrv.com or visit my other travel site –

Sorry I missed read your article and thought you offered catalogues.

Have you ever visited eastern Canada in the Atlantic Provinces in particular Nova Scotia.

I know the folks at Adventure Caravan-Ron and Juanita Khon-the owners.They do a beautiful job of advertising the Atlantic Provinces with their tours.

Everyone in this area of Canada are always welcoming to those folks and any others that visit.

In this area in particular there is a new campground coming to life -Parkville Campground,Noel, Nova Scotia-with very enthusiastic young owners.I am trying to spread the word and be of any assisstance that is possible.

Happy Travelling

Appreciate your response. Have been traveling the loop this summer and are gathering a lot of good information for the benefit of the RVers joining our caravans. Have signed up to follow your tweets and will continue to follow the website as you provide insightful information.

We are a new RV company. This summer we are traveling our proposed route, lining up campgrounds, activities and adventures. In other words, putting together our package. As our website says, we will be covering a specific route in the southern Colorado Rockies and are only interested in small caravans so more personal attention. We will be offering our tours starting in May 2012 and hope to run 5 tours a season.

Think you sum up RV caravan touring perfectly. These are the things we hope our customers realize are important. Can you offer any ideas for marketing or any general suggestions?

Thanks Sheryl, I visited your site and your caravans definitely sound interesting. I like the idea of smaller caravans for some because of the personal attention and there are people who are more comfortable in a smaller group. Good luck with your new company – I look forward to hearing from you again. Please feel free to sign up for new updates on my blog – I try and update it often and will be putting out a newsletter in the near future.

Pingback: Anonymous

Creation [ edit ]

In the World map, select the colony icon and click 'Form caravan' . A dialog is shown to assign pawns, animals, and items. You can create multiple caravans.

Caution: Clicking 'Abandon' on an unoccupied colony will not prompt for any confirmation before making it an inaccessible ruins and lost forever .

People and Animals [ edit ]

There are three different ways that caravans are formed:

A caravan without pack animals forms the quickest. Colonists only need to pack items to their personal inventory and can exit the map rather quickly.
A caravan with pack animals suffers from a loading phase where colonists must load selected items into the animal's inventory. This can take a long time if there are lots of items to pack or there aren't many haulers available.
A caravan already traveling in the World Map will reform instantly and not require a loading phase, regardless of pack animals.

Incapacitated pawns cannot be chosen to join the initial caravan. Once your caravan is traveling, though, colonists can carry incapacitated humans and animals, at a reduced speed.

The caravan will take the name of the best negotiator in the caravan (highest social skill.)

Items [ edit ]

Use the Items tab to select supplies. Only items located in your Stockpiles or Home Area are shown while initially packing; when reforming the caravan you can select any item on the map.

The carrying capacity of humans and pack animals in a caravan is separate from their Carrying Capacity for hauling, and is given by their Body Size multiplied by 35. For humans, this includes the clothing, gear, and inventory that they already have.

Caravan carrying capacity:

Baby or juvenile animals have a reduced carrying capacity according to their body size.

If the colonist or animal is already carrying something (such as clothes worn), they will appear to have a reduced carry weight.

The combined carrying capacity and mass of selected items is listed at the top. Buttons are used to select items/amounts. A double arrow [>>] will take the full quantity of an item. The arrow [>M] indicates you cannot carry the full quantity, but it will automatically take the maximum amount. When over capacity, the arrow [M<] will return some or all of those items so that the mass total does not exceed the caravan's carrying capacity.

Modifier keys can be used to change the [>] and [<] arrows from +/−1 to:

Ctrl : +/−10
⇧ Shift : +/−100
Ctrl + ⇧ Shift : +/−1000

If a caravan member dies in the close-up view, they will drop their items which must be picked up. If they die on the global map (such as from blood loss), their gear will be lost. If all party members die, the entire caravan disappears and everything is lost.

Food [ edit ]

Caravan members will feed as needed while traveling or resting, so long as there's allowed food in the caravan inventory. Colonists who are part of a caravan will automatically forage for raw food, with yield depending on the environment and the colonist's Growing skill . Foraging is not recommended as the caravan's primary food source, however, as it may result in food poisoning (2% chance/meal) like all raw food consumption.

Herbivorous animals can generally graze on their environment for nutrition while traveling, except in extreme biomes like ice sheets and deserts. However, carnivorous and omnivorous animals cannot hunt nor scavenge while traveling in a caravan. Extra appropriate food must be brought for them or they will starve.

A caravan's time to destination is displayed in the inspect pane when a caravan is selected on the World Map screen. This allows for careful coordination of trip length and food stores when planning a caravan.

Most food spoils without refrigeration rather quickly. Supplies with the soonest expiration date are automatically consumed first.

Simple meals will suffice for short journeys (spoils in 4 days).
Berries can last through mid-length journeys (up to 14 days), although they are less weight-efficient and add the chance (2%/meal) of food poisoning.
Pemmican is useful for long-distance travel (lasts over 1 year).
Packaged survival meals are also excellent for long journeys (never expire).

While traveling, caravan events may trigger such as manhunter packs or pirate raids, all of which generate mini-maps . After threats have been eliminated, it's possible to scavenge a mini-map for food, game, herbal medicine, and other resources. All animals will automatically feed in a mini-map.

After lingering on a mini-map for over several days, the storyteller will spawn a raid as a way of forcing you to reform the caravan . Upon reforming a caravan, all items, animals, and pawns must be manually selected to be included with your reformed caravan, or they'll be lost forever.

Formation process [ edit ]

Once the order to form the caravan is given, colonists and animals will gather around a caravan hitching spot or a random place within your home area and wait for all members to assemble.

It's recommended to put the caravan hitching spot inside your warehouse to reduce loading time.

After assembly, they will gather any needed supplies, putting them on pack animals if available. When they finish, they will head out to the map edges and wait for the other members to arrive, then exit the colony map and enter the world map.

Haulers not part of the caravan will also help in gathering the supplies.

Colonists will ignore any needs during the formation, except food (once they're starving they'll take a break to eat if food is available). Should they feel exhausted during the process, they won't rest in their bedrooms but collapse near the caravan hitching spot.

They will also override the 'Forbid' command, taking forbidden items. If there is less of an item than ordered (e.g. meals which other colonists ate during the process), members will take what they can and then carry on without stopping.

A pawn can be temporarily interrupted by manually assigning them to do another task. They will resume caravan loading once the task is complete.

Any mental break of its members will pause the process until that member recovers. Downing or killing that member will interrupt the process, causing it to be cancelled.

If the formation was successful, the character roster on top of the screen will split, showing those who stayed at home and those who left with the caravan by greying them on a different "box".

Caravan route & pathing [ edit ]

The 'Choose Route' button allows the player to set destinations for a caravan. Right-clicking a tile on the World Map will create a float menu with travel options. The quickest route to a destination is automatically calculated, taking terrain types and roads into account. Once a destination tile and inventory are chosen, traveling colonists will collect items to their inventories and then exit the map.

Caravan clear division between colonist path and muffalos' path.

The apparent reason behind the animal area drawn is to prevent them from eating your plantations.

Tricks [ edit ]

If a caravan includes a lot of animals or items, the process of gathering those can be very time consuming. Starting a larger caravan at 0400, it's not unusual to leave (well) after 1200, 8+ hours of "Forming Caravan". To reduce this time, you can add additional pawns to the Caravan roster, dedicating them to the loading process, either when you create the Caravan or after (by selecting a pawn and clicking "Add to Caravan"). You can remove them prior to exiting the map in the same way. You can even create the caravan with one set of pawns, add others, and remove the original set; this is handy to start the process as soon as possible if your desired travelers are busy early in the morning, or you just want them to get as much sleep as possible before the journey.
If you remove colonists from the caravan before leaving, their animals are released to wander and must be re-gathered by the (fewer) remaining caravaners, which might take another hour or more. It may be a better idea to let all colonists leave the map together, then immediately pause the game and jump to the World Map, select the caravan and click "Split Caravan", sending whichever colonists you wish instantly right back to the base map while the main caravan body continues on. Be sure the carrying capacity of the remaining pawns is enough to carry all the intended items.
Sometimes you start forming a caravan late in the day, or realize you won't make the 2200 cut-off for traveling that day. If you wait until after 2200 (when domestic animals sleep), you can create un-owned animal sleeping spots around the caravan hitching spot , un-form the caravan, and the (still-packed) animals will bed down there for the night. If you then start early the next morning ( well before they start to wake around 0600), the animals are near to the hitching spot and easy to round up when you re-create the caravan. There may be some unpacking/repacking of items, but your colonists won't have to chase the same animals all over the map again.
The act of gathering supplies allows a colonist to carry huge stacks of lightweight materials like cloth or food. This can be exploited to perform Super Hauling by having a colonist pick up all the goods on the map, drafting them into the storage room, and cancelling the caravan to unload. They will have hauled a massive number of supplies in one trip.
Faster unloading caravan with lots of carriage: before entering home cell while returning home, choose another route that take through settlement cell. When caravan moving over center of base on world map split it off all creatures except one pawn. That one pawn will become immovable due overload but You will be able to click on settlement and choose option to enter. Then draft him to stockpile and unload all items with arrow pointing down button from inventory screen. If returning caravan have only one pawn You can make another one to meet him near to be able to split.

Traveling [ edit ]

Once your caravan enters the world map, you can give it orders.

A caravan can:

Move - Right-click to select destination. A line indicates the optimal route (accounting for terrain speed and elevation changes).
You may not settle a new colony when already at maximum. The default maximum is one. This can increased to up to five in Menu - Options.
Settling directly adjacent to your own colony or any other settlement is not allowed.
Enter back into the colony - Right-click the colony.
Split - Click the Split button. Each caravan must consist of at least one colonist.
Merge - Select two or more caravans in the same tile (by dragging a square zone) and click Merge to form a single caravan.
Trade - When a caravan has reached a friendly faction outpost, click the trade button to open the trade dialog window.
Attack - A caravan can attack any faction outpost, regardless of relations status, though attacking will worsen relations.
Offer gifts - If your relations with a faction are not high enough to trade, you can offer them gifts in an attempt to improve relations.

Status box [ edit ]

Several items are displayed in the status box.

Traveling - moving to destination.
Resting - caravan automatically stops between hours 22 and 6 to sleep.
Waiting - no destination selected.
Stopped - stopped moving with reason given.
Estimated time to destination - time to destination based on the current tile movement time.
Days of food - number of days before your caravan runs out of available food. If your caravan is low on food, the player receives a text note on the side of the screen. Caravans with low food are also warned before exiting the map. Compare the days of food to 'estimated time to destination' to determine if your caravan has enough food for the journey.
Base movement time: Movement speed based on the average speed of all the pawns in the caravan.
Current tile movement time: Current movement speed based on the terrain, biome, weather (only affected during autumn-winter) or roads. (See table on this page for details.)
Visibility: How vulnerable your caravan is to ambush attacks. Visibility is affected by the ratio of inventory mass to caravan carrying capacity.

A caravan may stop for various reasons, such as:

They will still rest even if all members are fully rested.
Caravans sleep during those hours regardless of what the colonists are assigned in the Schedules menu.
When all colonists are downed or having a minor/major mental break.
Nobody will be harmed even if the colonist is going berserk.
Minor or major mental breaks won't stop the caravan as long as at least one person is still functional. If a colonist is in the midst of a mental break when you settle or get ambushed, they will still be having it when they appear on the map.
Paused caravans forage faster, members can socialize, and the caravan is less likely to be attacked.

Sustenance [ edit ]

Pawns traveling in a caravan will eat automatically when necessary. Grazing animals, when hungry in a place with grazable plants, will instantly have their hunger bar refilled without any cost. If not, they will proceed to eat food carried in the caravan. Pawns will prioritize food that spoils earlier.

If a colonist has an injury or disease that requires tending, doctors will tend to them as necessary, using medicine if available to them. If self-tend is on they will also tend to themselves.

If you bring Beer , Chocolate , or Insect jelly along with you, colonists may consume them during their journey. The mood bonus they provide can help keep colonists sane when away from the colony for long stretches of time.

Foraging [ edit ]

Every colonist in a caravan can forage for raw food. Each colonist can forage 0.09 nutrition per day per level of Plants at a baseline, i.e. in temperate forests or swamps. Given that each colonist consumes 1.6 nutrition per day, this means that a level 9 Plants colonist can break even with food consumption when the caravan is resting, and a level 18 Plants colonist can constantly forage more than he eats while traveling.

Foraging is also affected by manipulation (50% importance, 100% max) and sight (90% importance), so giving caravanners bionic eyes or archotech eyes increases foraging.

Having a tribal start grants a 170% multiplier to foraging, as shown by a "Faction Type: 170%" line in the tooltip. This means that in temperate forests or swamps, a level 6 Plants colonist will break even with food consumption when the caravan is resting, and a level 11 Plants colonist can constantly forage more than they eat while traveling. If Tribal colonists with good Plants skills have enough meals or other food to eat during a trip through terrain with good forage, they may return with a nontrivial quantity of berries.

Energy [ edit ]

When on the world map, friendly mechanoids consume no power. However, if a mechanoid does run out of power during the caravan, such as during an ambush, it will go under a permanent Dormant Self-charge state until someone brings it to a nearby mech recharger.

Recreation [ edit ]

Colonists on caravan gain recreation while stopped at a rate of 10% per hour, of the Solitary type if they are alone, or a mix of Solitary and Social if two or more colonists are on the same caravan. Tolerance is gained at an equivalent rate to Extremely Low Expectations, regardless of the expectations at the colony or the amount of wealth taken on the caravan.

Psyfocus [ edit ]

Pawns in a caravan will also regenerate psyfocus while remaining stationary or waiting. [Rate?] This however, does not apply when the caravan is resting due to sleep. This allows for usage of psycasts even while on long caravan journeys, provided some time is taken off to recharge.

Caravan Schedule [ edit ]

All caravans start moving at 0600 hours and stop at 2200 hours, and they rest while not moving. This travel routine is adhered to regardless of pawn traits or schedule , i.e. a night owl pawn scheduled to sleep during the day will still caravan from 0600 to 2200 hours. If a newly formed caravan leaves the colony map after 2200 hours, it will enter the world map and rest until 0600 the next morning. Similarly, if they don't reach their destination tile by 2200, they will stop to rest, even if they are just a single tile away.

Note that if a caravan is partway between a tile and a settlement, camp, outpost, or similar map fixture, the caravan will continue traveling until they reach that fixture, even if it's after 2200. [Details]

Caravan Movement Speed [ edit ]

Caravan movement speed follows the following equation:

Rideable animals, carried mass, mass capacity, and terrain all directly impact caravan movement speed. Wounded or sick pawns also slow down caravans.

Mounts [ edit ]

Adding animals to a caravan may impose a multiplier on caravan speed based on the Caravan riding speed stat of the animal. The riding speed acts as a multiplier if there is one mount for every human pawn - for example, the caravan speed is multiplied by ×1.6 if there is at least one horse for every human.

You get the full multiplier if you have enough mounts for everybody. You get something in between if you don't bring enough or have a mix of speeds.

Carried mass ratio [ edit ]

Caravan speed also receives a multiplier based on the ratio of Mass Carrier/Mass Capacity. This is between 200% speed for zero mass and 50% (?) for maximum mass.

There is no distinction between carried and equipped mass - an equipped weapon weighs the same as it does when carried in a muffalo's inventory. However, some furniture like chairs have a lower mass than the materials they yield upon deconstruction.

Caravan speed can be increased by lowering carried mass (dropping items) or adding more pack animals, ultimately decreasing the Mass Carried/Capacity ratio. The speed multiplier will asymptotically approach 200%, thus number of pack animals used has diminishing returns.

Terrain [ edit ]

The game will automatically plot the fastest route to your selected destination, so you will rarely have to pick and choose specific terrain.

The following table lists the movement difficulty of individual world tiles. Flat terrain is naturally the easiest to travel, hills and mountains are slower, and roads will speed it up though any terrain. Average temperatures under -17.1 °C (1.2 °F ) will start to cause movement difficulty to increase. Winter penalty maxes out at +2 movement difficulty at -22.5 °C (-8.5 °F ).

Note that 1 movement difficulty roughly equates to 0.06 days or roughly 1.44 hours at base human movement speed.

Tabs [ edit ]

The inspection pane has tabs to manage the caravan and view details.

In the 'Gear' tab, by clicking the red X you can drop items and lose them forever. Dropping items may be necessary if the caravan becomes overburdened and unable to move.

You can also abandon colonists and prisoners in the 'Social' tab. Items carried by a dismissed pawn will be lost. Abandoning a caravan member will cause their friends and family to have sad thoughts, and if the colonist is unlikely to survive (such as low temperatures) there will be a more severe penalty. Colonists who survive may eventually make their way back to your colony, or return as part of an enemy raid or friendly caravan.

In the 'Gear' tab you can swap gear by dragging and dropping gear onto different colonists, or to and from the caravan inventory.

Gear & Inventory

Mass carried

Route planner [ edit ]

There is a route planner that allows you to roughly check the amount of time it takes to reach a destination, allowing you to plan ahead.

When it is opened, you can drop various waypoints around the world map. The game will calculate the time it takes for a 1 tile/h caravan to travel through the planned route. You can also place the starting point on an existing caravan to determine the time taken for a journey based on that caravan's speed.

Note that if you only place the waypoint at the destination(s), "caravan route time" only estimates a 1-way trip. To see the round-trip estimate, place another waypoint at home.

Returning home [ edit ]

After you arrive back at your colony, you will notice two details must be addressed before continuing the game.

Pack animals may go straight to their animal bed or just wander around still with all your items inside their packing gear. If you happen to need something at the moment, you will have to make them drop it. You may want to restrict them to a roofed zone and wait for them to go there before doing this, so the dropped belongings won't deteriorate due to exposure, or you can wait until night when they are sleeping inside a room. Pack animals who have been trained for Obedience can be assigned to follow their master, who can be drafted to storage areas and wait until the animals follow him/her too to drop the items as well.
Prisoners will still be carrying your caravan items too, even armor and weaponry (as odd as it may be). They will not unload their inventory after returning to base unless directed to through the gear tab, and will start to unload only after being recruited.

Prisoners keep your caravan items

Prisoner unloading inventory after recruitment

Long distance journeys [ edit ]

Many basic technology options prove to be very helpful for long distance travel. Make frequent use of Campfires , Pemmican , Passive coolers and Crafting spots to resupply your caravans and keep healthy on the road, instead of one large ride. Take advantage by building settlements whenever you run low on food or resources. Generated maps can have forageable food and animals to hunt or even tame into the convoy. Colonists will also need time off to relax and restore their joy.

Multiple colonies and pitstops [ edit ]

The game options let you choose how many colonies (up to 5) you can have active on the globe at once. Temporary maps from events do not count towards this limit. In order to build beyond the game menu limits, you must abandon an existing colony.

Should you choose to make multiple settlements, it is not necessary to carry all your raw materials all the way from your home base to a new spot. Lighten the load by carrying valuables such as silver, gold, drugs and then trading them with your new neighbors, or if you settled close enough, use transport pods to launch everything over.

While traveling long distances consider bringing valuable items, then bartering for necessary supplies instead of bringing them.

If you know certain resources will be scarce in your new map's biome, or if you want to save time mining, some resources can be compressed -- that is, built into items with a lower mass than their raw materials.

Events [ edit ]

Caravan events take place on the road, which means that neither side will be engaging with the benefit of a base. The action takes place in the open and the player must take advantage on terrain features to defend themselves. Those who survive will have a 24 hours window to perform vital needs such as doctoring, resting and feeding as well as re-packing. Eliminated hostiles can be fed to your animals .

There are two different ways of re-packing: manually giving cargo animals the selected item to be carried or re-forming the caravan. The first alternative lets you make the most out of the area which may include mining, harvesting, and cooking, while the last option will instantly leave the place. Either way, before the countdown timer ends, all items must be put to be carried or they will be lost once the time runs out.

Visibility [ edit ]

Visibility is how easy your Caravan is to notice. It multiplies the chance that your caravan will be waylaid by enemies. Visibility does not affect your ability to find things you want. Visibility is based on the total body size of all people and animals in the caravan. The default visibility for 1 person in a caravan is 20%, it does not scale linearly for additional people, as two people is 36%. You can see the visibility in the upper right while forming a caravan.

Ambush [ edit ]

Your caravan has been ambushed by an enemy faction. Colonists cannot exit the generated map until the attackers are defeated (killed, downed, or fled). If all are killed, the caravan is considered destroyed and will disappear along with any carried items.

1.- Red envelope alert zooms in to the battle tile.

2.- You can see the incoming attackers from a distance.

3.- World view is a red dot.

4.- Once victorious, you have 24 hours before the caravan automatically reforms to leave.

5.- Make a tiny room enough to capture downed enemies with a sleeping spot each.

Prisoners arrive to your colony, wandering around.

The game notifies you that an ambush is taking place, prompting you to check on your caravan.
Pause the game to survey the enemy and position yourself by taking cover behind terrain features.
Check where it's happening. As it is, in this case, right next to the colony, it's possible to quickly send reinforcements. However, you cannot send the back-up caravan right into the battle, but must first move to an adjacent tile before joining your comrades.
After an encounter ends, a 24-hour countdown begins so you can recover, pick up items, strip the dead/downed, and take care of any other need.
To take prisoners, you should build the smallest room possible (remember you are on a countdown) which can just fit the same amount of sleeping spots for each downed enemy. Treat their wounds so they don't die while carrying them to your colony. Finally, reforming the caravan makes captives come with you (you will see them listed).
Your prisoners are finally brought to your colony, but you see them wandering around (!!!). Don't worry as they won't attempt to escape. Your characters will proceed to unload their items. Eventually, wardens will come to pick them up and escort them to designated prison cells. Any incapacitated prisoners will remain downed and need to be carried.

If a hostile pawn that was downed gets up, carvan will be unable to leave map tile but the pawn won't be hostile.

Manhunter Ambush [ edit ]

Same as Ambush except with a manhunter pack of animals. Manhunters won't attempt to flee, and colonists can't either.

Demand [ edit ]

A number of pirates approach your caravan and demand that you give them items and/or hand over members as slaves. If you don't comply, they will proceed to assault the caravan. It's nearly always a better choice to fight back as pirates usually come in poor numbers.

Encounter [ edit ]

Another friendly caravan crosses paths with you, opening an opportunity to trade.

You can attack them if you wish, damaging faction relations. Your pawns may exit the map while engaging the caravan. Since you will be informed of their party composition but cannot clearly see who is in the caravan, you can decide if they're worth robbing.

Sometimes when attacking them, they may decide to do a 'bloody exit', that is to exit as aggressively as possible.

Reform caravan [ edit ]

You can only reform caravans if there are no hostile pawns on the map or they are all either downed or asleep.

Caravan lost [ edit ]

If a caravan is lost, all items, animals, and prisoners become unrecoverable. A caravan is lost if all colonists die or suffer an irreversible mental break like Gone Wild or Give Up. Milder mental breaks which can be spontaneously snapped out of, like Sad Wandering, will not lose a caravan.

Colonists, animals, and prisoners can be banished via the 'Social' tab. Items carried by an abandoned pawn will be lost. Abandoning a caravan member will cause their friends and family to have sad thoughts, and if the colonist is unlikely to survive (such as in low temperatures), there will be a more severe penalty. Colonists who survive abandonment may eventually make their way back to your colony or return as part of an enemy raid or friendly caravan.

Attacking other settlements [ edit ]

You may raid other settlements on the world map, much like other factions do to your colony. To do this, all you need is to send a caravan to a site, and select the "Attack" interaction option. Attacking settlements gives you an opportunity to steal valuable goods such as glitterworld medicine , luciferium , components , as well as weapons and armor.

See offense tactics for specific tips on how to assault outposts and bases.

Walkthrough [ edit ]

1.- Moving towards target settlement for raid

2.- Generating map for new encounter

3.- Attack begun

4.- Studying enemies

5.- Enemy base layout

6.- Enemy base zoomed out

7.- Enemy positioning and loot

8.- First stampede

9.- Stampede casualty

10.- Using their base as your own

11.- Outpost destroyed, 24h countdown before leaving

12.- Resting at enemy base

13.- Looting

14.- Caravan back to home

15.- Unloading inventory

16.- Work tab order shift

Version history [ edit ]

1.1.0 - Changed caravan reform to be allowed with sleeping hostiles on site.
1.4.3523 - Fix: When forming a caravan, downed pawns are sometimes left behind near the map edge. Fix: Pawns resting in caravans don't show the 'Z' icon on their portraits to indicate rest.
1.4.3527 - Fix: Never sleep xenohumans still rest when caravanning alone.
1.4.3682 - Fix: Captured prisoners escaping from reformed caravans. Fix: Caravans holding relics cause "relic lost" thought on map exit.
1.4.3704 - Fix: Load stack count is incorrect for caravan itab when there is only one thing in the transferable and the player isn't taking the whole stack.
Pages to be rewritten
Pages that need images
Game mechanics
Pages that need fact checking

The Best Time to Travel to the Dominican Republic

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is a shining beacon for travelers seeking a respite from daily life. From its pristine white sand beaches and sprawling beachfront resorts to its rich culture and delectable cuisine, the Dominican Republic is a must-visit for nearly anyone.

Of course, like any vacation, timing is key. To savor all that the Dominican Republic has to offer, you’ll need to choose the right time to visit. The right time can look different for each traveler, as it depends on your preferences.

Understanding the Dominican Republic’s Climate And Weather Patterns

The Dominican Republic has two primary seasons: wet and dry . The wet season stretches from May to October, escorting in higher humidity levels and sudden rain showers, especially in the afternoons.

Although these showers are often brief and localized, they can put a damper on your jungle excursion or sunbathing experience. Of course, since the weather doesn’t typically hang around long, you can resume your activities shortly after the weather passes through.

On the flip side, the country’s dry season extends from November to April. This season boasts beautiful clear skies, balmy temperatures, and minimal rainfall. The weather is perfect for outdoor adventures, from hiking through the jungles to snorkeling through the sparkling waters to sunbathing on idyllic beaches.

Choosing the Best Time to Visit

Like most popular vacation destinations, the Dominican Republic has distinct on and off seasons. During the “on” season, the country is bustling with tourists who flock to its shores, but during the “off” season, travel ebbs, and the country quiets down.

Visiting During the “On” Season

The dry season offers a prime window to experience the Dominican Republic in all its glory, so it’s no surprise that these months qualify as the “on” season. The sunkissed days, cool ocean breezes, and lively festivities and events make this time of year an excellent time to visit.

If you’re seeking a respite from the dreary, cold, and snowy weather of your hometown, the Dominican Republic’s shores are an excellent place to be. The weather is perfect for everything from leisurely beach days and thrilling water sports to immersive cultural experiences and outdoor exploration.

Furthermore, since this time of year beckons countless visitors, you’ll have ample opportunities to socialize with other travelers and attend all sorts of entertaining festivities and events.

Of course, if you’re hoping for a quieter experience, this time of year might not be ideal. Plus, it’s important to remember that accommodations, flights, and tour packages are often pricier during this time of year, so you will likely pay more for your vacation.

Visiting During the “Off” Season

While the allure of the dry season is tempting, the “off” season has its own unique set of advantages. When you visit between May and October, you can enjoy the quieter setting, forging deeper connections with the locals and soaking in all the country has to offer.

This time of year offers a chance to experience the Dominican Republic in a more intimate and authentic light, as the rhythms of daily life aren’t disturbed by the hustle and bustle of thousands of tourists. As you stroll the cobblestone streets flanked by colorful colonial architecture or hike through the lush, scenic forests, you’ll get a closer look into the daily lives of the locals, creating ample opportunities to forge genuine connections.

Beyond the remarkable, more authentic experience, you’ll likely save money on your trip. Accommodations, flights, and tour packages are often more affordable during this time of year, making this an ideal option for budget-conscious travelers. Plus, since fewer tourists visit during this season, popular attractions are quieter and less packed, allowing you to experience each one at your own pace.

So, When is the Best Time to Travel to the Dominican Republic?

Ultimately, it’s up to you! If you prefer a lively experience and postcard-perfect weather, the dry season might be the perfect time to visit. The warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal precipitation will lend well to your excursions, allowing you to make the most out of your vacation.

Or, if you prefer a more authentic travel experience that fosters real connections with the locals, the wet season might be your best bet. This season escorts in the rain, so it’s far less busy than its drier counterpart, allowing you to immerse yourself in genuine experiences with the people and the land.

You could even travel at the tail end of either season, getting a blend of both. The best time to travel to the Dominican Republic is up to you and your preferences!

Enjoy All the Dominican Republic Has to Offer in a Guided Tour

Between its vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality, the Dominican Republic is well worth a visit. If you’re ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Caribbean without the hassle of planning your own trip, a guided tour might be the perfect fit.

At Caravan, we offer a seven-day tour that takes you through the wonders of the Dominican Republic, from the capital and its rich culture to Punta Cana and its pristine white beaches. The trip is packed with must-do activities and must-see sights, yet still leaves plenty of time for your own exploring. Ready to book a trip? Call 1-800-CARAVAN or 1-312-321-9800 today!

Business Hours

Quick Links

Who uses travelmath.

Companies like United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Ryanair use Travelmath to re-route passengers and plan new flight paths.

Celebrities love Travelmath!

"Travelmath is the one app I couldn't live without - it calculates all your journey timings and because I travel a lot, it's essential. Whoever invented Travelmath, I love you! " – Drew Barrymore

"There's a website called Travelmath, it's really good if you're into flight times. " – Blake Griffin

Dirtiest Public Transit

See the research from our Travelmath study on public transportation hygiene. How does the New York subway rank against Chicago, DC, SF, and Boston? Read the full study!

Germiest Hotel Rooms

See even more research from our Travelmath study on hotel hygiene. Spoiler alert: Don't turn on the TV... Read the full study!

Travel Tools

What is travelmath.

Travelmath is an online trip calculator that helps you find answers quickly. If you're planning a trip, you can measure things like travel distance and travel time . To keep your budget under control, use the travel cost tools.

You can also browse information on flights including the distance and flight time. Or use the section on driving to compare the distance by car, or the length of your road trip.

Type in any location to search for your exact destination .

Quick Calculator

How do i search.

To get started, enter your starting point and destination into the boxes above. If you want an airport , it's best to enter the 3-letter IATA code if you know it. For cities , include the state or country if possible.

You can also enter more general locations like a state or province , country, island , zip code, or even some landmarks by name.

Check Prices

Home · About · Terms · Privacy

Caravan Tours

Regional operator

Service level

Travelers age

Trip prices

$1,295 — 1,695

Tour languages

Quick Links:

Trips other travelers liked

Ice to Sun 2023: Argentina & Brazil

“Where the mountains meet the sea”- Kotor Bay, Lovcen & Skadar Lake National Park

Discover Albania

Brazil (North): See & Experience it ALL in 13 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Iceland Discovery

Northern Lights Escape

4-Days Cuyabeno

Family Fun In Cambodia

Member savings.

Age Range: 50+

Average Tour Price: Under $2,000

Average Tour Duration: 8-10 days

Travel Style: Sightseeing at natural attractions

Group Tours
North America
Central America & Caribbean

Compare with Caravan Tours

View all tour company comparisons

How well do you know the world?

Caravan tours reviews & ratings, fantastic tour don't hesitate, just go.

Fantastic tour!! I cannot recommend it more highly. Everything was great. We had a good group, our tour director Jose was wonderful and our driver Viktor was great. ...

Joan from NYC

It was wonderful!

I can’t even describe how wonderful our trip is, since we are still here in Costa Rica. Never again will you have the opportunity to learn so much history by their ...

I have travelled all over and this tour will stay with me forever. Our historian, Giovanny, is the best of the best and the Jose, our driver was able to drive the narrow roads effortlesslyl

THis is without a doubt, one of my nicest tours. We were fortunate and the valcano was active! We also saw so many wild animals. Remember this is not a zoo. Some ...

Disappointed

They promised to accommodate Vegitarians but with fixed menu policy no veg choices. While generally 2 meats and fish offered to the rest. Restaurants mede up what th...

Have taken the Canadian Rockies trip twice and loved it both times.

Everything was perfect!

See all Caravan Tours reviews

Editoral Review of Caravan Tours

Caravan Tours Quick Facts

Age Range: 50+

Average Tour Price: Under $2,000

Average Tour Duration: 8-10 days

Travel Style: Sightseeing at natural attractions

Caravan Tours, founded in 1952 and based in Chicago USA, provides escorted group tours to countries in the Americas. They are one of the oldest group tour operators and focus on value vacations with a no-frills.

What Makes Caravan Tours Stand Out?

Competitive prices
No additional expenses
Complete sightseeing

Caravan Tours offer affordable prices for the avid budget traveler . These competitive prices are possible because of the volume of their suppliers who offer the best prices to Caravan. In turn, Caravan passes these budget friendly prices onto their travelers.

Tours are kept reasonable and transparent. Caravan doesn’t include any optional activities that travelers can have for an additional price. They include all activities within the initial price instead of forcing travelers to pay hundreds of more dollars to make their tour more enjoyable.

Caravan Tours is the complete sightseeing experience. Travelers will get to visit many tourist attractions and sites with more included features. Local guides will offer a rich insight into the destination. These guides are hand picked by Caravan for their knowledge, friendliness and command of English so you can rest assured that you will be in good hands the entire time.

Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Caravan Tours?

Budget travelers

Caravan is not the most flashy or inventive tour company. Tours visit standard sites, groups are generally large - transportation in comfortable yet basic motorcoaches. If you are looking for an immersive cultural experience, you will probably won’t find what you’re looking for with Caravan.

However if you are looking for an affordable trip to some of the most incredible natural attractions and national parks in the USA , Canada , and Latin America - this could be a great fit.

Caravan’s tours tend to attract a slightly older crowd, primarily Americans. They are a well known budget brand for 50+ and senior travelers. Families looking for an easy, relatively comprehensive, and inclusive tour will also enjoy the Caravan experience.

Top Destinations

Caravan Tours operates exclusively in North America and Central America , including trips to the United States , Costa Rica , Guatemala and Canada . They offer nine tours in total.

Caravan Tours Travel Style

A comfortable hotel like the ones offered by Caravan Tours.

Caravan Tours handles all accommodations. Travelers will stay in hotels centered in cities as well as park lodges and scenic resorts.These accommodations are chosen based on ambience, service and location to the entirety of the tour.

Meals are included on most trips although some excursions offer flexibility for dining out at restaurants of your choosing. In Latin America , Caravan includes airport transfers in the tour price. Flights are not included in the price of most trips, but Caravan does provide resources to popular airlines with affordable airfare to the destinations they travel to. Accommodations are in basic lodges and hotels, often with large national chains such as Hilton.

When traveling with Caravan, expect a more slow travel pace. They know the value of a balance between seeing exciting sights and relaxing in a beautiful destination. Their itineraries are specifically paced so you never feel overwhelmed or underwhelmed.

Why Choose a Tour with Caravan?

Caravan has many years of perfecting their itineraries to specific destinations, such as Yosemite National Park , the California coast , and Costa Rica .

Their escorted vacation packages truly offer great value for the money and you are assured to see the highlights in any destination you visit. If you want an all-inclusive tour experience and don’t mind traveling with a larger group, Caravan is perfect for you.

Caravan Tours Covid Safety Precautions

Caravan has cancelled all tours scheduled for 2020 and states that they will be providing full refunds. They are now accepting pre-registration for those wishing to travel in 2022.

Some countries are beginning to reopen to international visitors with entry restrictions while others have remained closed. See a full updated list »

Want more information about travel safety and the coronavirus? Read about where it's safe to travel to in 2020 »

Unlock Community Benefits

Travel better together.

Save favorite trips and itineraries
Get insider insights
Receive personalized recommendations
... and much more

More Details

Solo friendly.

No single supplement

Travelstride featured in

About the company.

Caravan Tours began selling fully escorted tours in 1952. We have been under the same management and ownership ever since. In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two hours CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel.

Great Value, Book Early

Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. Last year many of our tours sold out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best airfare.

How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost? Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices we, in turn, pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever. How satisfied are Caravan clients? The short answer is “very.” Our surveys are uniformly very positive. However we continually strive to improve our tours, (they are often updated several times in the course of one year), we study all client surveys and suggestions for improvement very carefully. Pitch-Free Travel : Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.

Tweets by caravantours19

Caravan Tours Trips & Specials

Guatemala with Tikal, Atitlán and Antigua

Panama Canal Cruise, Rainforests & Beaches

California Coast and Yosemite Park

Want a tailor-made trip instead, your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top Caravan Tours Trip Categories

Caravan tours company ranking by category, similar companies, about travelstride, find your perfect trip, travel confidently.

Travellers With Time

Our mission.

After spending years backpacking we decided to try campervan and caravaning our way through the world. After many years, quite a few vehicles, some hot, hot summers, icy cold winters and a lot of different countries, we share our knowledge and experience so you can be prepared and have the holiday you deserve! Take our experience, advice, travel routes and recommendations and enjoy yourself!

We’re glad you’re here….

Travellers With TIme - Christine and Ben

We’re Christine and Ben and we’re really happy you’ve found our site. I (Christine) am Australian, and Ben is from the Netherlands. We met while we were backpacking in Vietnam. We’ve lived in both countries but really, we love to travel and it turns out travelling with a campervan or caravan is our preferred style. We were exploring Europe with our dogs before COVID hit, in fact, we initially got stuck in Croatia when the EU shut its borders to non citizens. We are currently semi stationary in the Netherlands, waiting until we can safely get going again. You can read more of our story on our About Us page

Our latest posts

The I Amsterdam sign out the front of the Rijks Museum in Amsterdam - prices in Amsterdam

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

Plan Your Trip
Car Rentals

How Fast Did A Caravan Travel

Published: November 25, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Bryn Saylor

Introduction

Throughout history, humans have always been on the move. From nomadic tribes to modern travelers, the need to transport goods and people has been a constant. In the early days, caravans played a vital role in long-distance travel, serving as the primary means of transportation for traders, explorers, and nomads.

Caravans were groups of travelers, sometimes consisting of hundreds of people, with pack animals like camels, horses, or mules, used to carry goods and supplies. These organized groups traveled together for safety, as the journey was often fraught with challenges such as bandits, harsh terrain, and unpredictable weather.

Caravans traversed vast distances, connecting different regions, cultures, and markets. They were responsible for the exchange of goods, ideas, and knowledge, laying the foundation for globalization as we know it today. The success and speed of a caravan were crucial in determining the efficiency of trade routes and the prosperity of nations.

In this article, we will delve into the historical background of caravans, explore the various methods of transportation utilized, discuss the limitations faced by caravans, and examine the factors that affected their speed on the treacherous journey. Additionally, we will also highlight notable records of caravan travel speeds throughout history.

So, fasten your seatbelts, and join us on this exciting journey through time, as we uncover the fascinating history of caravan travel and the speed at which these important vehicles were able to transport people and goods.

Historical Background

The history of caravans dates back thousands of years, with evidence of organized group travel found in ancient civilizations such as the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Egyptians. Early caravans were primarily composed of traders who transported goods and commodities across vast distances, connecting different regions and civilizations.

Caravans played a crucial role in facilitating trade between civilizations, as they served as the lifeline for the exchange of goods such as spices, textiles, precious metals, and more. Along with commercial purposes, caravans also served as conduits for the spread of ideas, culture, and religious beliefs.

As civilizations grew and expanded, the demand for caravans increased. The Silk Road, for example, was a network of trade routes that connected the East and West, allowing for the exchange of silk, spices, and other luxury goods between China and the Roman Empire. Caravans plied these routes, traveling through deserts, mountains, and unforgiving terrains to complete their journeys.

In addition to trade, caravans were also utilized for exploration and colonization. Explorers such as Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta embarked on epic journeys, traversing continents and documenting their encounters with different cultures and civilizations. Caravans provided the necessary support and security for these expeditions, allowing explorers to venture into uncharted territories.

The advent of organized caravan travel brought about the need for infrastructure development. Along trade routes, inns, rest houses, and trading posts were established to cater to the needs of traveling caravans. These establishments became hubs of cultural exchange and played a vital role in the growth of civilizations along the routes.

Over time, with advancements in technology and the rise of maritime trade, the importance of caravans diminished. However, their impact on human history cannot be understated. Caravans were the lifelines of civilizations, connecting people, fostering trade, and shaping the world as we know it today.

Methods of Transportation

Caravans utilized various methods of transportation to facilitate the movement of people, goods, and supplies across long distances. The choice of transportation method depended on factors such as the terrain, climate, availability of resources, and cultural preferences of the region.

The most common form of transportation used by caravans was pack animals. Camels, horses, mules, and oxen were widely employed as they could carry heavy loads and withstand long journeys through challenging environments. The Arabian camel, also known as the dromedary, was particularly suited for desert travel due to its ability to endure harsh conditions and extended periods without water.

In regions with navigable rivers, boats and barges were used to transport goods and people. Caravans would often reach riverine trading hubs and transfer their cargo onto boats, allowing them to travel faster and bypass challenging land routes. Rivers such as the Nile, Tigris, Euphrates, and Yangtze were essential for the movement of goods in their respective regions.

In areas where water transportation was not feasible, caravans relied on wheeled vehicles such as carts and wagons. This method was commonly used in Europe and parts of Asia, where the terrain allowed for smooth passage and where roads and bridges had been constructed. However, wheeled transportation had its limitations in rough terrains like deserts and mountains.

For water crossings, ferry services were essential. These services operated at key river crossings or strategic points along sea routes, allowing caravans to safely transport both people and goods across bodies of water. Ferries were often manned by skilled navigators who were knowledgeable about the currents and safe passage.

In some cases, human porters were utilized to carry goods on their backs in regions where larger animals were not practical or where the terrain was too rugged. This method required a large number of porters to transport the same quantity of goods carried by pack animals. It was physically demanding but allowed for navigation through narrow trails and steep terrains.

The choice of transportation method was influenced by a variety of factors. For example, in desert regions, camels were preferred due to their ability to conserve water. In mountainous areas, sure-footed mules were favored for their agility and stability. The availability of resources, such as food for the animals, also played a role in determining the mode of transportation.

Overall, the methods of transportation used by caravans were diverse and adapted to the specific needs and conditions of the regions they traversed. These methods allowed for the efficient movement of goods and supplies, enabling the success of long-distance trade and exploration.

Limitations of Caravans

While caravans were essential for long-distance travel and trade, they also faced various limitations that impacted their speed and efficiency. These limitations could range from natural obstacles to logistical challenges inherent in organizing and maintaining large groups of people and animals on a journey.

One significant limitation faced by caravans was the unpredictable and treacherous nature of the terrain through which they traveled. Deserts, mountains, dense forests, and other challenging environments presented obstacles that could slow down or even halt the progress of a caravan. Crossing vast stretches of sand, navigating steep mountain passes, or maneuvering through thick vegetation required careful planning, experienced guides, and ample resources.

Another limitation was the reliance on natural resources and infrastructure. Caravans needed access to water sources along their routes for both the people and pack animals. Lack of water or the presence of contaminated water could cause delays and pose health risks. Rest houses, inns, and trading posts were vital for providing shelter, supplies, and a place to rest for caravan members, but their availability and quality varied along different routes.

Logistics also posed a challenge for caravans. Coordinating a group of travelers, pack animals, and supplies required proper organization and management. Caravan leaders had to ensure that essential provisions, including food, water, and medical supplies, were stocked and distributed efficiently. Maintaining the health and well-being of the animals, as well as managing their loads, was crucial to sustaining a steady pace.

Security was another major concern for caravans. The valuable goods being transported made them attractive targets for bandits and thieves. Caravan routes were vulnerable to attacks, and caravan members had to take precautions such as traveling in numbers, hiring guards, and staying vigilant to mitigate the risk of theft or violence. These security measures often meant traveling at a slower pace, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

Furthermore, caravans were limited by the physical endurance of the animals used for transportation. Camels, horses, and mules could only travel for a certain distance before requiring rest and nourishment. The pace of the caravan had to be adjusted to account for the limitations of the animals and prevent overexertion or fatigue.

In spite of these limitations, caravans played a vital role in connecting civilizations and facilitating trade. Despite the challenges they faced, caravans were able to overcome these obstacles and establish extensive networks of commerce and cultural exchange, paving the way for the globalization we see today.

Factors Affecting Caravan Speed

Several factors influenced the speed at which caravans were able to travel. Understanding these factors is crucial to comprehending the challenges and limitations faced by these long-distance travel groups.

1. Terrain: The nature of the terrain significantly impacted caravan speed. Smooth and well-maintained roads allowed for faster travel, while rough terrains such as deserts, mountains, or dense forests slowed down the pace. Caravans had to navigate through challenging landscapes, which sometimes required careful planning, detours, or alternative routes.

2. Weather Conditions: Weather conditions played a crucial role in determining the speed of caravans. Extreme heat or cold, heavy rainfall, or strong winds could impede progress or pose a risk to the safety of the caravan. Caravans often had to adjust their speed or even take temporary shelter to wait out severe weather conditions.

3. Seasonal Factors: The time of year affected caravan travel speed. Seasonal changes such as monsoon rains, snowstorms, or extreme heat could make certain routes impassable or extremely challenging. Caravans had to time their journeys carefully to optimize the favorable weather conditions and avoid dangerous ones.

4. Availability of Resources: Caravans relied on the availability of essential resources such as water, food, and fodder for their pack animals. The proximity of water sources and the availability of grazing lands for the animals affected the frequency and duration of breaks, ultimately influencing the overall speed of the caravan.

5. Size and Composition of the Caravan: The size and composition of the caravan also impacted its speed. Larger caravans with more people, animals, and goods required more time for coordination and rest breaks. Additionally, the speed of the slowest or weakest animal in the caravan often determined the overall pace.

6. Security Concerns: The need for security measures against potential threats, such as bandits and thieves, could slow down the caravan. Traveling in larger groups or hiring armed guards was a common practice, but it often meant sacrificing speed for safety.

7. Organizational Efficiency: Efficient organization and management of the caravan played a vital role in maintaining speed. Proper planning, logistics, and communication among caravan members ensured smoother coordination, minimized delays, and optimized travel time.

8. Traveler Experience and Expertise: The expertise and experience of the caravan leaders and members influenced the overall speed. Experienced leaders knew how to navigate the terrain, anticipate challenges, and make informed decisions to optimize speed without compromising safety.

Considering these factors, it becomes evident that caravan speed was a delicate balancing act between pushing the boundaries of travel efficiency while ensuring the safety and well-being of the caravan members and animals.

Records of Caravan Travel Speeds

While it is challenging to determine precise figures for caravan travel speeds throughout history, there are records and estimates that provide insight into the pace at which caravans were able to cover vast distances.

One remarkable example is the Silk Road, which connected China to the Roman Empire. Caravans traversing this route were estimated to travel at an average speed of around 10 to 15 miles per day. The journey from Chang’an (present-day Xi’an) in China to the Mediterranean coast could take several months to complete.

In the 19th century, during the California Gold Rush, caravans of covered wagons, known as wagon trains, set out on long and arduous journeys to the American West. These wagon trains averaged around 10 to 20 miles per day, depending on the terrain and conditions.

Explorers and adventurers also left records of their caravan travel speeds. For instance, Sir Alexander Burnes, an explorer and diplomatic envoy in the 19th century, documented his journey from India to Afghanistan, which covered approximately 1,500 miles. His caravan traveled at an average speed of around 15 miles per day.

Another famous explorer, Marco Polo, recorded his travel speeds along the Silk Road during the 13th century. His caravan averaged about 20 miles per day, covering vast distances from Constantinople (present-day Istanbul) to China.

It is important to note that travel speeds varied greatly depending on the conditions and circumstances of each caravan journey. Factors such as the terrain, weather conditions, size of the caravan, availability of resources, and the purpose of travel all influenced the speed at which caravans were able to move.

While these records offer some insights into caravan travel speeds, it is important to remember that precise measurements were not always recorded, and estimates can vary. Additionally, individual caravans may have traveled at different speeds depending on their specific circumstances and objectives.

Caravans played a significant role in shaping human history, connecting civilizations, and facilitating trade and cultural exchange. While the speed of caravans varied depending on various factors such as terrain, weather conditions, availability of resources, and the size of the caravan, their impact cannot be underestimated.

Caravans faced numerous limitations and challenges, including navigating treacherous terrains, weathering unpredictable weather conditions, organizing logistics, ensuring security, and relying on the endurance of pack animals. These factors influenced the speed at which caravans could travel and the efficiency of trade routes.

Despite these challenges, caravans served as vital arteries of commerce and cultural exchange. They opened up new trade routes, facilitated exploration and discovery, and became symbols of connectivity between distant civilizations. The Silk Road, the Arabian Caravans, and the wagon trains during the American Westward Expansion are just a few examples of the significant historical journeys undertaken by caravans.

While precise records of caravan travel speeds may be scarce, estimates provide valuable insights into the pace at which caravans covered vast distances. These speeds varied depending on the region, purpose of travel, and the conditions faced. However, the primary goal of caravans was not solely speed but rather the efficient and secure movement of goods, people, and ideas.

In conclusion, caravans were integral to the development of civilizations and the exchange of goods and knowledge. They created economic opportunities, fostered cultural exchange, and acted as conduits of globalization long before modern transportation methods. Caravans exemplify the human drive to connect and explore, overcoming challenges and limitations to shape the world we live in today.

Privacy Overview
Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Travel Guides

First Timer’s Travel Guide to Moscow & Saint Petersburg

Russia is this vast, diverse, and magnificent land that many international travellers dream of visiting. The capital city Moscow and the second largest city in the country St Petersburg are, in particular, one of the most magical and interesting cities in the world you can visit all year-round. That is why today we decided to focus yours and our attention to both cities. Learn how to explore them properly if you are a first-time visitor. How to ensure that you make the most of your visit. What to expect, etc.

The Kremlin, Moscow

Despite the fact that even a month or two will not be enough to explore Moscow or St Petersburg to the fullest and enjoy everything these amazing cities have to offer, not many of us have the luck to spend such a long time abroad. We would provide you with some recommendations and ideas you can totally make happen within a 4-day itinerary in Moscow and a 4-day itinerary in St Petersburg.

St Petersburg

In addition, please note that the majority of the international and continental flights are to the capital city Moscow that is a home to the biggest and most popular airport in the country. So Moscow will be the starting point of your over a week-long journey to Russia. Let’s discuss some of the basics you should know and prepare for!

The first thing you have to do when planning to visit Russia is applying for a visa. There are only a few countries in the world that are to require a visa when visiting the country. In the majority of the cases, you should have one in order to visit the country. Be prepared for your visa application by making sure you own and can provide a proof of arrival and departure dates, and an invitation letter from either a tour provider or an accommodation booked.

Make sure to check out the website of your country’s government for additional requirements and papers needed. The easiest way to get an invitation letter from an accommodation is by booking a major hotel chain. They are more used to dealing with international visitors and will assist and support you throughout the process, providing you with everything you need for entering the country. Please keep in mind that the application process can take up to a few weeks and you have to send your original passport away, so make sure you don’t need it during this time.

However, there is one way to visit St Petersburg for three days visa-free. This happens if you arrive by ferry or cruise ship when you will be allowed to arrive and stay in the city for 72 hours without applying for a visa. This is the only way and a great option to visit one of the most magnificent and impressive cities in Russia without going through the whole visa application process that can be pretty overwhelming, indeed.

Well, Russian language is not the most popular in the world, despite the fact it is spoken by a big number of people, who are citizens not only of the country but also of the ex-USSR. Chances are, you are not familiar with the language and with the Cyrillic alphabet used in the country, where you will find that the majority of the signs around the cities are in Cyrillic, which can make it harder for you to find your way around, but also a great bunch of the names of many international brands and companies. In addition, once you get to Russia you will find out that English is definitely not widely-spoken by the general population, even in big cities such as Moscow and St Petersburg, where most of the people, no matter their age, will speak little to no English.

However, don’t be afraid that you will get lost or in trouble. Let Google Translate, hand gestures, and a little common sense make all the hard work and you will be ok. Keep in mind that having an Internet connection on your phone all the time will be very helpful for finding your way around. In addition, many restaurants in the main tourist areas in both cities have an English menu you can ask for, while the same applies to the maps and brochures of the major tourist attractions.

Getting Around

Both Moscow and St Petersburg have an awful traffic, which means that taxis can cost you a lot. Buses and cars can take a long time when traffic is at its full potential and in order to save yourself some time and coins. We highly recommend you using the metro/underground systems in both cities. Moscow’s metro system is simply amazing. It has a huge network of interconnecting lines that will help you get around and across the city very efficiently.

Make sure to grab a map of the Moscow’s metro, which will make it very easy to navigate, plus the stations are announced in English. In addition, using the metro is incredibly cheap and it will get you anywhere in the city for less than $1. Moscow’s metro is also known for some of the most beautiful and spectacular metro stations in the world that are definitely worth visiting as amazing tourist attractions of their own.

The metro is St Petersburg isn’t nearly as extensive as the Moscow’s one and the stations are more spread out. In this case, you can take advantage of the Uber service in the city and explore St Petersburg by ordering an Uber driver that will cost you significantly cheaper than a taxi. Thanks to the big number of drivers available, you will be able to find a free car very quickly. However, considering the fact that St Petersburg is more touristy and most of the main sights are located in what is called the Golden Triangle, you can easily explore the main tourist attractions by foot. There are also sightseeing buses and canal transports that will take you all along and around the main sights in St Petersburg.

The Russian currency is Russian ruble and you can expect to spend a lot of it because both Moscow and St Petersburg are pretty expensive cities with a higher standard and cost of living. Knowing that both cities are generally pretty expensive will help you plan that fact into your budget and consider some way to spend money if you are not travelling with a limitless budget. For example, make sure to choose a hotel that is in the outskirts of the city and in a short walking distance from a metro station. This way you can save a huge amount of money compared to a hotel in the city centre and you can also save on travel time. If you are student do not forget to take your valid student ID with you since some attractions and museums are offering a student discount.

Tickets and Attractions

When it comes to tickets for shows, museums, and attractions, the best way is to buy them beforehand. This way you can save time and not wait in hours-long lines, you can even benefit from an online purchase discount, and most importantly – you can make sure that your place and visit is reserved since many attractions in Russia sell a limited amount of tickets per day. There are some places that are very popular and tickets can sell out weeks in advance. An online purchase will help you figure out what and when you can visit, and you can plan your tour better and more effectively.

The weather in Moscow and St Petersburg can be pretty unpredictable all year-round. Because of that make sure to pack a variety of clothes for all seasons, dress in layers, and don’t take the weather forecast for the day as a final promise. Make sure to always take an umbrella or a raincoat with you. For women, bringing a scarf can be very useful for a practical reason, but also because some churches and cathedrals in Russia expect you to cover your hair with a scarf.

If you are a foodie, you will be happy to know that Russia has its very own and unique cuisine and we highly recommend you trying out some of the most popular dishes in the country including the Russian dumplings pierogi, the infamous Russian salads such as Olivie, Mimoza, and Seliodka pod shuba, etc. However, if you are not willing to try out the local cuisine, there are many international restaurants and familiar fast food chains in both cities Moscow and St Petersburg.

Things to Do and Places to See

Both Moscow and St Petersburg are cities that offer a lot to be seen, explored, experienced, and enjoyed. Some of the most important, stunning, and exciting sights in Moscow: the Red Square, where you can visit the St. Basil’s Cathedral and the GUM Department Store. The Kremlin that contains the Great Bell Tower. The Tsar Bell, Tsar Cannon, several cathedrals, gardens, and the Armory Chamber. Arbat Street is the most touristic street in Moscow with a lot of places to eat, plenty of shops to buy, and all the souvenirs you can ever imagine and want to take home with you.

St. Basil’s Cathedral

The metro stations, despite the fact that they are one of the busiest in the world, are definitely very clean and beautifully constructed and ornamented. Izmaylovsky Flea Market is just a few metro stations away from the centre. It is a great place to get to know the Russian culture and everyday life while shopping for some more authentic and interesting souvenirs. Sparrow Hill is one of the highest spots in Moscow and offers some great views of the modern city, plus it is the location of the Lomonosov Moscow State University.

Saint Petersburg is often referred to as one of the most beautiful and stunning cities not only in Russia but in the whole world. It has plenty of unique sights and magnificent things to see in the city. If your time is limited you should make sure to cover at least the highlights. The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, since its exterior and interior, are equally breath-taking.

The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

Hop on a canal cruise to explore the city from a different perspective. Visit Kazan Cathedral and St. Isaac’s Cathedral, where you can go inside and also climb the stairs to the top and enjoy some stunning views of the city. The Palace Square, which is home to the Winter Palace, which was the lavish residence of the Russian monarchs and is nowadays a part of the Hermitage Museum.

Kazan Cathedral

Of course, visiting Saint Petersburg without visiting the Hermitage Museum is like going to Rome and not seeing the Pope. The Hermitage is one of the largest and most spectacular museums in the world and a day is not enough to explore each and every one of its nooks and corners. When in the city, you can also visit the Peter and Paul Fortress, the Peterhof Palace.

Despite the fact that media loves to sensationalise the negative stories in Russia and the fact that the country is often portrayed as a pretty unsafe place by the western media, the chances of you getting into a trouble, feel threatened, or in a danger are as minimal as possible. However, keep in mind that some things are rather recommended not to do, for example taking a picture of any government, military or security building. Despite not forbidden, you better use your camera for capturing some more exciting moments. In addition, always bring a photocopy of your passport and visa with you, since police can demand you to legitimize yourself anytime.

Tags: Russia Travel Guides

Cyprus Travel Guide

March 23, 2018

by advancedholidays · Published March 23, 2018 · Last modified July 27, 2018

Puerto Rico Travel Guide

August 20, 2018

by advancedholidays · Published August 20, 2018 · Last modified September 10, 2018

Argentina Travel Guide – Part 2

May 18, 2017

by advancedholidays · Published May 18, 2017 · Last modified July 27, 2018

Travel Deals
Travel Destinations
Travel Tips
World Cuisine

Find a UK campsite
Route Planning for your next caravan journey

UK route planner

Are you planning a journey in the UK in your caravan, motorhome or campervan? Use our UK route planner and we'll get you on the best journey possible!

Please enter a city, town, county, postcode, Club Campsite or Certificated Location name in the boxes above to start planning your route.

Trans-Siberian Railway Prices

Trans-Siberian Railway Tickets
Trans-Siberian Railway Ticket Booking
Trans-Siberian Railway Car Classes
Travel Procedure
Trans-Siberian Railway Route
Guides & Gadgets

Home » Prices and Trans-Siberian Tickets » Trans-Siberian Railway Prices

Ticket prices for the Trans-Siberian Railway also depend on the current ruble exchange rate.

Is the Trans-Siberian Railway expensive?

Before starting on your Trans-Siberian Railway adventure you naturally want to know what the entire trip will cost. Although this sounds like a simple question, it is pretty difficult to answer. The Trans-Siberian Railway price of travel depends on the following factors:

Which travel class do I want to use? The price for a first class ticket is about three times the price of a 3rd class ticket
Am I willing to buy the tickets myself and assume responsibility for the organisation of the trip?
How many stopovers do I want to make? The more breaks, the higher the total price.
What sort of accommodation do I want? Will it be a luxury hotel or will a hostel dormitory be sufficient?
What tours and excursions would I like to go on?
What is the current exchange rate for rubles?

Basically, everything from a luxury to a budget holiday is available. If you buy yourself a 3rd Class nonstop ticket at the counter, a few hundred Euros will cover the price. All you will experience is a week on the Trans-Siberian train and will see nothing of the cities on the way. There is, however, any amount of room for upward expansion. Everyone makes different choices about which aspects they are willing to spend money on. I personally prefer to save money on accommodation and railcar class, visit as many cities and do as many trips as possible. To enable better classification of your travel expenses I have contrasted two typical traveler types. In the third column you can calculate the total cost of your own journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that these are only rough estimations and not exact prices.

The all-in costs seem fairly high at first. However, they cover everything and it is quite a long journey taking four weeks. Many people forget to consider that when looking at the list. We should also deduct the running costs for food and leisure at home. I think most visitors to this page will classify themselves somewhere between the two categories, that is around the € 2,000 – € 2,500 range. When comparing these prices with other travel packages, you get the impression that it is hardly worthwhile travelling individually on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that most packages last no more than 14 days and you are herded like cattle through the most beautiful locations.

If you spend less time on the Trans-Siberian Railway you will, of course, pay less. I chose this particular travel length because I prefer not to do things by halves. If you fulfill your dream of travelling on the Trans-Siberian Railway, enjoy it and don’t rush things. But it’s up to you, of course. Try playing around with the form a bit to find the appropriate price for your trip.

Trans-Siberian Railway Tickets »

The Urban Caravan

A family of 4's adventures in a self build Sprinter

Moscow 2015

Every now and again I am sent to do some IT work in one of our rep offices, i’ve been to Milan, Paris, Dubai, Cairo and the slightly less glamorous Aberdeen.

My favourite and by far the most interesting to me is Moscow, they fly me here, i’m not expected to drive the van!

Last time I came here it was -35, cold even for an Englishman, it was the start of the Socchi olympics and the normally unimpressed looking Russians were smiling, i think they are unimpressed at this time of year because it’s bloody cold, even so, it’s a magical time to visit, most lakes freeze over and become ice rinks, the river which is easily as wide as the river thames also freezes over but I never saw anybody skating on it, there is snow everywhere and the parks are lit up with fairy lights, it’s like christmas everyday!

Because it was so cold last time around the only tourist thing I did was take a trip on the metro to photograph some of the ornate stations, it’s warm down there! I also took a wander round Red Square as it was within walking distance to where I was staying, you can find those pictures on my flickr site here .

This time I arrived when the temperature was quite literally at the opposite end of the scale, it was +35 when I landed, nice. As it’s a business trip I am usually picked up by the driver from the office but due to some bad communication he wasn’t coming to get me, I would have to get a taxi, I was concerned I would get ripped off but was assured if I picked up a taxi from inside the terminal I would be fine, I did exactly that and still got ripped off to the point where the hotel told me not to pay, called the police, hid me in a room and told me not to come out till it was all over, that put a stop to any first night excursions although it meant my taxi ride was free. Turns out the taxi driver wasn’t licensed and made up the fares as he went along, they were also all in Russian so his argument that I had agreed the fare was flawed as I don’t speak or read Russian and he didn’t speak English.

The following day was a day in the office, a late finish, dinner and bed, not very exciting, however, the method in my madness was to get as much done as I could on one night so I could head out a bit early the following day and explore.

Next day the sun was shining, I didn’t want to do anything indoors,I wanted to make the most of some good weather, I braved the metro (it’s easy to get lost as there is nothing in English and Cyrillic makes no sense to me) and headed off to Gorky Park.

Over the road from Gorky park is another park called (by westeners) Fallen Monument Park . When the soviet union collapased, many of the old statues that represented the union were removed and some have made their way to the park.

Each statue or monument has a little info board telling you what it is, some are quite obvious if you know your history.

The monuments evoke a very cold war / iron curtain feel, I think they are awesome!

From there I wandered to the river to take a picture of a quite massive monument!

This is Peter The Great, a 98 metre high monument erected in 1997 to commemorate 300 years of the Russian navy which he founded, it’s an impressive thing, you can read more about it here

You can walk along the waterfront, under the bridge and make your way into Gorky park, the route is fairly busy with couples strolling hand in hand, cyclists belting along or towing people on skateboards,lots of rollerbladers, you can hire a bike if you want or just amble along on foot like me.

Gorky park is an incredible space, within the park there is so much going on, yoga classes with at least twenty or so people stretching in unison, table tennis, beach volleyball on sand, Russian dancing, kids running through fountains.

There are restaurants and cafe’s dotted about the place, a boating lake with pedalos, massive bean bags to relax on, group running, I could go on, the most striking thing to me was the sound, a mixture of music and laughter which is a lovely thing to hear.

There are at least 3 different fountains, one that does a show to classical music, all around there are brightly coloured flowers symmetrically arranged, if i’m honest I was pretty blown away, the only thing it didn’t have was Lolly, she was back at home and I know she would have loved walking round the parks.

I took loads of pictures which as I write I still have to edit, I think I spent about 4 hours wandering round both parks and only decided to go home as the sun was going down, maybe I should have stayed and got some night shots, in fact I wish I had.

I hope I get to come here again and if I do, I will come in Summer again, Moscow is a great place to visit, one for the bucket list…

Panama Tropical Adventure

Dear Traveler, Welcome to a great vacation at an affordable price. Your Panama tour is fully guided and includes most meals, all hotels, and all activities. Happy Travels! Caravan

Best Panama Vacation - All Inclusive

Book your Panama vacation with Caravan Tours and discover this Central American country’s rich culture, fascinating history, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Panama Tour Highlights

Panama vacation itinerary, included with your caravan panama vacation, about caravan tours, 2024 hotels, days 1, 2 • panama city, westin panama, days 3, 4 • gamboa, gamboa rainforest resort, days 5, 6 • playa bonita, westin playa bonita resort, day 7 • panama city, intercontinental miramar panama, airport transfers, arrival transfers, departure transfers, passports & visas, weather & clothing, temperature °f (high/low) rainfall (inches), clothing tips, travel tips & faqs, my tour price includes, preparing for the tropics, are meals included, children on tour, family trips, my tour price does not include, age of travelers on a caravan tour, forms of payment, many tours sell out each year, fully guided tours since 1952, size of tour group, a well-paced itinerary, caravan’s $129 travel protection, customer reviews.

"Amazing. This was our first trip with Caravan and we will be taking another adventure with you. Couldn’t ask for better accommodations, the hotels were all topnotch. Enjoyed all the meals, something for everyone. Friends told us about Caravan and they were 100% right. We will be telling all my other friends about Caravan Panama." Mr. & Mrs. G.S., Ormond Beach, Florida

"This was our third Caravan tour and once again, it was wonderful. The detailed schedules and activities allow us to enjoy the tour with no concerns about logistics. Wonderful job of providing background and history. Every meal offered tremendous variety and diverse regional cuisine of Panama. Thanks to our Director and the many people helping with the tour, we learned a lot, experienced wonderful opportunities, and enjoyed local culture." Mr. & Mrs. M.L., Brussels, Wisconsin

"Panama is a spectacular place. The hotels were beautiful, the last one being the best I’ve ever stayed in. The food and drink was great. We had such an informed director, he knew history and current affairs. Very helpful and always there if needed. This was a wonderful tour that I will remember." Ms. M.N., Buffalo, New York

"Panama: a WONDER of the world! A fantastic week - expertly planned and executed! From history, observation and riding through the canal, with additional side events...awesome!! A most memorable experience." Ms. P.M., Winnetka, Illinois

"This was my fifth tour with Caravan. They have all provided wonderful opportunities to see spectacular scenery, enjoy the cuisine, and interact with local culture. The guides are professional, personable, competent and enhance the tours. Our canal transit was great." Mr. J.D., Upton, Massachusetts

"I selected this trip as an alternative to taking a cruise which visited the canal. What’s not to like about this trip? It totally went beyond my expectations. It provided so much more than the cruise we were considering. I am glad I found Caravan to give you a try. Our party of four would at dinner each night, review and evaluate the day, giving each other a high point or low point of the day. This was the first time trying to come up with a low was extremely difficult. Caravan has got traveling down to an artform." Mr. & Mrs. D.G., Rockville, Maryland

"We have fallen in love with guided tours. We don’t know how Caravan does it. We wanted to see the Panama Canal and we got to see every angle. Everything planned perfectly. The entertainment at night was very interesting, showing pride in the Panama culture. There is not enough space about our amazing tour director. His heart and soul was into the tour and travelers, his experience shows. Not only did we learn from the trip, we learned from fellow travelers. They became our family for a week." Mr. & Mrs. D.M., Tampico, Illinois

Why Travel with Caravan?

Excellence since 1952, caravan care, caravan's proud history, great hotels, complete sightseeing, fully guided by tour directors, all-inclusive, shopping freedom, great value, book early, how does caravan tours sell these tours for such a low cost, trade association memberships.

Share full article

Supported by

What to Know Before Booking a National Park Trip This Summer

Additional routes in popular parks now require reservations, the annual pass gets a big change, Juneteenth is now a new free entrance day and more changes for 2024.

A deep-blue mountain creek with evergreen trees and brown grasses along its shores is in front of a towering gray mountain peak scattered with snow.

By Lauren Matison

In 2023, the seashores, lakeshores, battlefields, historic sites, monuments and more that make up the National Park Service had 325.5 million visits , an increase of 4 percent from the year before.

The National Park Service director, Charles F. Sams III, praised the surge of interest in “learning our shared American story throughout the hidden gems of the National Parks System.”

Expecting an even greater turnout in 2024, the Park Service and Recreation.gov , the booking platform for federal land reservations, have implemented new measures to streamline the park experience, manage overcrowding and safeguard the environment.

More parks are requiring reservations

To better avoid congested trails, packed parking lots and overflowing trash cans, additional parks are joining Rocky Mountain , Arches and Glacier National Parks this year in requiring day-use permits, timed entries and other reservations for travelers who wish to visit, particularly during peak hours, holidays and the parks’ high seasons. Yosemite National Park is reinstating a timed-entry system it instituted in 2020, but paused in 2022.

Many park enthusiasts expressed mixed feelings about the reservation policies, with some lamenting a lack of first-come, first-served campsites while others find comfort in knowing they have a confirmed booking. As nearly 75 percent of visitors each year descend on national parks from May to October (and often on weekends), park officials stand by the system.

“In some parks, the level of demand is exceeding the capacity for which infrastructure was designed or is outpacing the National Park Service’s ability to sustainably support visitation,” said Kathy Kupper, a public affairs specialist for the service. “This trend is resulting in the need to explore new strategies to protect natural and cultural resources and provide opportunities for safe and meaningful visitor experiences.”

It can be confusing.

New to implementing timed-entry reservations for vehicles is Mount Rainier National Park , in Washington, for its popular Paradise and Sunrise Corridors during certain times in the summer season. Reservations cost $2, are valid for one day and must be purchased along with the park ticket, but do not apply for visitors with wilderness permits or camping or lodge reservations. Similar vehicle reservations are now required for certain periods for viewing the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park in Maui, Hawaii , and driving the Cadillac Summit Road in Maine’s Acadia National Park .

Visitors wishing to hike Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park must obtain a day-use ticket between March 1 and Nov. 30, and in Zion National Park, in Utah, hikers wishing to visit Angels Landing , the dramatic 1,488-foot-tall rock formation, also need to purchase a permit. Fees range from $1 to $6, in addition to the parks’ entrance fees.

As each destination is managed differently, check the park’s webpage for the type of reservation required. Although most bookings can be made through Recreation.gov, some sites, such as Muir Woods National Monument, use a different system.

New features on Recreation.gov

In 2023, Recreation.gov reported that more than 4 million camping reservations and 2 million timed-entry reservations were booked online, and 1.5 million permits were issued. Some 2.9 million new users signed up for the site. With its expanding user base, the booking platform has added 58 reservable national park locations — including 17 campgrounds — such as Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Bluff Hike In Camping in South Carolina’s Congaree National Park.

Recreation.gov has also improved an alerts feature, piloted in July 2023, that can notify users through email or mobile push notifications when a sold-out campsite becomes available. After Recreation.gov notifies you of availability, you must book the campsite yourself online — and quickly, as you’ll be shown how many other people (possibly hundreds) have received the same alert.

While its customer support center and mobile app are still only available in English, Recreation.gov recently introduced a Spanish language translation option. The Park Service partners with Latino Conservation Week , which hosts nationwide hikes and events on environmental education and in-park stewardship, and will celebrate its 10th year in September.

A limit to the annual America the Beautiful pass

The 2024 America the Beautiful pass no longer allows two owners. The annual interagency pass, which costs $80 and covers the entrance fees for more than 2,000 federal recreation sites (of which roughly 100 do not charge for admission year-round), is now marked by a single signature line on the back of the card. The pass owner must show I.D. and be present with any accompanying travelers wishing to access the park with the pass. (Annual passes issued in 2023 will still be valid until their expiration date.) The pass covers all passengers in a vehicle — up to four adults, and children under 16 are admitted free — or up to four cyclists riding together. Active military or veterans and people with permanent disabilities are eligible for a free lifetime pass; 4th grade students may receive a free annual pass; and senior citizens may purchase a $20 annual pass or pay $80 for a lifetime pass.

At the parks, more accessible features, E.V. chargers and new lodging

To better protect against global warming, the Park Service is putting more than $65 million from the Inflation Reduction Act and Great American Outdoors Act into climate mitigation and ecosystem restoration.

Using $15.9 million budgeted for zero-emission vehicle deployment, charging capacity and infrastructure, the Park Service is prioritizing a reduction in carbon emissions, said Mr. Sams, by installing new electric-vehicle charging stations and running electric buses.

An interactive online locator tool created in 2023 shows E.V. charging stations throughout 27 national parks and the type of chargers available. In addition to the tool, every national park page displays alerts on road closures, parking lot capacities, construction work and other incidents.

Mr. Sams also said the Park Service is investing $1.3 billion from the Great American Outdoors Act to improve accessibility features, ranging from a new A.D.A.-compliant visitor center at Morristown National Historic Park in New Jersey to new beach wheelchairs at Sleeping Bear Dunes , Channel Islands and Virgin Islands National Parks . Each destination’s website has an accessibility tab to help visitors plan their trip, and Recreation.gov now has a search filter on its homepage to make it easier to locate accessible accommodations.

New lodging options now available across the country include the Flamingo Lodge , which opened inside Everglades National Park last fall with 24 guest rooms built from repurposed shipping containers. In March, along the southeastern border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cataloochee Ranch reopened with 11 renovated cabins and a new restaurant. This spring, the Clubhouse Hotel & Suites will welcome its first guests in Rapid City, S.D., the closest major town to Badlands National Park , and opening in May in Idaho is the Yellowstone Peaks Hotel , a 30-minute-drive from Yellowstone National Park. This fall, California-bound travelers planning a visit to General Sherman, the largest known tree on Earth, might book at AutoCamp Sequoia , just outside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park .

Also in California: Those who don’t score a highly coveted (and contentious) spot at the newly reopened High Sierra Camps in Yosemite could book Wildhaven Yosemite in Mariposa, which offers more affordable rates, hiking trails and views of the Sierra Nevadas. Reservations for its first season are available beginning May 1.

Celebrating milestones and a new free entrance day

On the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, visitors can pay tribute to African American heritage at over 100 parks , including the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail . This year also marks 100 years since Indigenous people were recognized as United States citizens. Although many parks have Indigenous programming , Mr. Sams, who is the first Native American to serve as N.P.S. director , suggested visiting Hopewell Cultural Historical Park in Ohio and Whitman Mission Historic National Historic Site in Washington, where he recently brought his daughter.

“In order to celebrate the diversity that makes our country great, we must share the complete story of America, which includes both the successes and challenges encountered on the way to form a more perfect union,” Mr. Sams said.

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the National Park Service’s newest free entrance day . Visitors can also take advantage of free admission on April 20, the first day of National Park Week; Aug. 4, the four-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act ; Sept. 28 on National Public Lands Day ; and Nov. 11 for Veterans Day .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the Flamingo Lodge. It is inside Everglades National Park, not outside the park.

How we handle corrections

IMAGES

{FREE} Printable Caravan Checklist
Caravan tourism: Gear up for the future of travel
Whether you have just bought a caravan or you are a seasoned traveller
Caravan & Camper Trailer Travel Journal
Personalised Caravan Travel Journal
What Are the Advantages of Travelling by Caravans?

VIDEO

RENTING CARAVAN For LUXURIOUS FAMILY TRIP At LOW PRICE !!🤩 FREE STAY & DRIVER INCLUDED
DAY 5 LIVING IN THE CARAVAN
Caravan Travel Cost Blow-out
Recent good times at the caravan and home
Caravan Palace
Caravan 222

COMMENTS

Caravan Tours
See Caravan's Covid-19 Terms of Travel. Caravan's Proud History. In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie "If it's Tuesday this must be Belgium." ... Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time ...
Costa Rica Tours
Caravan is a member of ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors), NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Catalog Association). Costa Rica Tours - 8 Days $995 includes all meals, activities, great hotels and is fully guided.
Caravan
Three or four strings might travel abreast, as was usual with nomad drivers, or the whole caravan might travel in one long line, as in some Chinese caravans. The timing of caravans was governed by the availability of water and pasture or, in the case of the Muslim pilgrim caravans, by the need to be in Mecca on the 8th day of the month of Dhū ...
What Is A Caravan
A caravan, in the context of travel and camping, refers to a mobile home on wheels that provides both transportation and accommodation. It is designed to be towed behind a vehicle or driven as a motorhome, allowing travelers to explore new destinations while having a comfortable living space readily available.
Caravan Guided Tours
Travel with Caravan on the following: Costa Rica Tours. Traveling fully escorted is absolutely the best way to explore Costa Rica's many volcanoes, waterfalls, rainforests, cloud forests and National Parks. ... Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am to 5pm Central Time USA Phone: 800-CARAVAN or 312-321-9800
RV Caravan Tours
Of course each RV caravan tour company is different but for the most part RV Park fees and reservations are included in the tour price. Some other features usually included are: Trip logs (maps) Services of Wagonmaster and Tailgunner. Emergency medical assistance insurance. Fees for border crossings and visas.
Caravan
The game will calculate the time it takes for a 1 tile/h caravan to travel through the planned route. You can also place the starting point on an existing caravan to determine the time taken for a journey based on that caravan's speed. Note that if you only place the waypoint at the destination(s), "caravan route time" only estimates a 1-way trip.
Caravan (travellers)
Caravan (travellers) A caravan (from Persian کاروان kârvân) or cafila (from Arabic ‏ قَافِلَة ‎ qāfila listen ⓘ) is a group of people traveling together, often on a trade expedition. [1] Caravans were used mainly in desert areas and throughout the Silk Road, where traveling in groups aided in defense against bandits as ...
The Best Time to Travel to the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has two primary seasons: wet and dry. The wet season stretches from May to October, escorting in higher humidity levels and sudden rain showers, especially in the afternoons. Although these showers are often brief and localized, they can put a damper on your jungle excursion or sunbathing experience.
Driving Time Calculator
Travelmath helps you find the driving time based on actual directions for your road trip. You can find out how long it will take to drive between any two cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes. This can also help you plan the best route to travel to your destination. Compare the results with the flight time calculator to see how much ...
Travelmath trip calculator
What is Travelmath? Travelmath is an online trip calculator that helps you find answers quickly. If you're planning a trip, you can measure things like travel distance and travel time.To keep your budget under control, use the travel cost tools. You can also browse information on flights including the distance and flight time. Or use the section on driving to compare the distance by car, or ...
Caravan Tours Profile [2024]
Editoral Review of Caravan Tours. Caravan Tours Quick Facts. Age Range: 50+. Average Tour Price: Under $2,000. Average Tour Duration: 8-10 days. Travel Style: Sightseeing at natural attractions. Caravan Tours, founded in 1952 and based in Chicago USA, provides escorted group tours to countries in the Americas.
Caravan Travel Times? : r/RimWorld
Start by looking on the "Health" tab of your caravan, when you're on the world map- look specifically for any hurt animals or colonists with infections, diseases or wounds, as well as any pregnancies or newborn animals for your pack animals. A baby animal in your caravan can slow your caravan to a crawl, and it's possible that one of your pack ...
- Travellers With Time
Travellers With Time. Slow campervan and caravan travel for those who want to experience it all. After spending years backpacking we decided to try campervan and caravaning our way through the world. After many years, quite a few vehicles, some hot, hot summers, icy cold winters and a lot of different countries, we share our knowledge and ...
Panama Tours
$129 Travel Protection Caravan's $129 Travel Protection offers peace of mind if you cancel for any reason whatsoever prior to the departure of the tour. Travel Protection also includes air, baggage, evacuation, medical, and quarantine coverage. ... From pre-Columbian times to the present day, Panama has played a prominent role as the major ...
How Fast Did A Caravan Travel
3. Seasonal Factors: The time of year affected caravan travel speed. Seasonal changes such as monsoon rains, snowstorms, or extreme heat could make certain routes impassable or extremely challenging. Caravans had to time their journeys carefully to optimize the favorable weather conditions and avoid dangerous ones. 4.
First Timer's Travel Guide to Moscow & Saint Petersburg
The capital city Moscow and the second largest city in the country St Petersburg are, in particular, one of the most magical and interesting cities in the world you can visit all year-round. That is why today we decided to focus yours and our attention to both cities. Learn how to explore them properly if you are a first-time visitor.
Caravan and Motorhome UK Route Planner
Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited, registered in England and Wales no. 00646027. Registered address: East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA. The Caravan Club Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (no. 311890) for general insurance and credit activities.
Caravan Tours
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952. In 1959, Pan Am invited Caravan to be the very first tour company to fly their clients on its new line of Clipper Jets. In 1964, Caravan introduced the very first fleet of air ...
Tour & Travel Agency in Moscow
You cannot resist our Two Hearts of Russia (7 Days &6 Nights), Golden Moscow (4 Days &3 Nights), Sochi (3 Days & 2 Nights), Golden Ring (1 Day & 2 Days), and many more. As a leading travel agency specializing in the tour to Russia and Former Soviet Republics, we are connecting the travellers from every part of the world for more than 10 years.
Trans-Siberian Railway Prices Calculation
The price for a first class ticket is about three times the price of a 3rd class ticket; ... Basically, everything from a luxury to a budget holiday is available. If you buy yourself a 3rd Class nonstop ticket at the counter, a few hundred Euros will cover the price. ... Length of travel: 28 days: 28 days: days: Train Tickets: 3. Cl. Moscow ...
Moscow 2015
The Urban Caravan. A family of 4's adventures in a self build Sprinter. Menu. Search. ... Travel. Wales 2016; The first night; Plymouth 2014; Bath 2014; Polesden Lacey 2014; Reigate Hill and Gatton Park 2014; Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest 2015; Ullswater 2015; ... Bad times. Exclusive camping! ...
Panama Vacation
Book a Panama vacation with Caravan. We offer the best way to experience the local culture, natural wonders, and engineering feats of this beautiful Central American country. To Book a Caravan Tour of Panama, call toll-free at 1-800-227-2826. Read Caravan's Panama tour Reviews.
What to Know Before Booking a National Park Trip This Summer
Additional routes in popular parks now require reservations, the annual pass gets a big change, Juneteenth is now a new free entrance day and more changes for 2024. By Lauren Matison In 2023, the ...