intrepid travel trek patagonia

Call us: 1.800.528.9300 Low Price Guarantee

Get Exclusive Deals by Email!

Trek Patagonia (Original)

Tour description:.

Visit South America and travel to Patagonia – a fascinating region in the far south of Chile and Argentina, rich in natural beauty, dramatic vistas and cosmopolitan cities oozing with passion and culture. Feel the contrast as you trek the W Hike through the Patagonian wilderness and explore the urban metropolis of Santiago. From camping near the end of the earth and witnessing gargantuan glaciers to indulging in the modernity of Buenos Aires, this trip will reward those with a sense of adventure, an appreciation of nature and an interest in diversity.

Dates & Pricing

Request a Quote

Never pay retail for any . For our UNADVERTISED Price, fill out this form for real cash savings.

Destination & Sightseeing

• Discover two very different sides of Chile – the big-city pulse of soulful Santiago and the adventure-fuelled atmosphere of lakeside Puerto Natales.
• Argentina's Perito Moreno Glacier must be seen to be believed. This massive, blue-hued natural wonder is one of Patagonia's real crown jewels.
• Trek past granite pillars, sparkling lakes and gushing waterfalls in Torres del Paine National Park on a four-day camping trip with all your meals taken care of.
• Finish in Buenos Aires, Argentina's sensational and sultry capital. Stay on and explore its many corners at your leisure, from the star-studded Recoleta cemetery to the tucked-away milongas (tango halls).

To request Pavlus Travel to remove your personal information, please complete the following form and indicate which services you would like your information removed from. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information.

Submit Request

Request a Galapagos Quote for 11/1/2020 – Galapagos Inner Loop – 7 Nights Roundtrip Baltra | From $8,512

Request a Galapagos Quote for 9/1/2019 – Galapagos Outer Loop – 7 Nights Roundtrip Baltra | From $8,743

Request a Galapagos Quote for 8/11/2019 – Galapagos Inner Loop – 7 Nights Roundtrip Baltra | From $9,380

All fares are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy, and reflect promotional savings, are for new bookings only, are subject to availability, and must be booked by September 1, 2019. Promotional savings in categories F-B on the December 21st sailing and categories C-D on the December 27th sailing only. *Included roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco is based on availability in class of service. Offer may be combined with applicable 3rd guest in stateroom offer but may not be combinable with other offers. Port, security, and handling charges of $149 per person are additional. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Call for details. Ship’s registry: Bahamas.

"Not all who wander are lost."

In this case however...

Weߴre terribly sorry. That page does not exist. Let Rover, the Travelstride guide dog get you back on the right path

Patagonia Discovery

Health Safety +

This trip not available.

• Explore the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires
• Trek in the foothills of the Andes
• See ancient rock paintings in Cueva de las Manos
• Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier
• Be awestruck by the views from Laguna de los Tres
• Hike up to the beautiful Laguna Torre

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• High Adventure

Destinations

• South America

Trip includes

• Included activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary
• all other activities are optional and at your own expense
• If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary
• the cost will not be refunded

Popular Trips

Hike Patagonia In Depth

Deluxe Argentina 11 days/10 nights

Full Argentina in 25 days

Patagonian Highlights

Argentina & Brazil Adventure

Fly out to Trelew before travelling on to Puerto Madryn, the gateway to the Valdes Peninsula. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring this scenic coastal city. Head out to the picturesque peninsula on Day 3 and discover the diverse ecosystem of this World Heritage site. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, sea elephants, sea lions, penguins, orcas and dolphins. Later, take an overnight bus to Bariloche.

Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, the city of Bariloche offers superb scenery and awe-inspiring vistas. Renowned for its skiing and trekking opportunities, the area attracts outdoor adventurers from around the world. Perhaps stock up on treats at one of the heavenly chocolate shops before embarking on a full-day trek through the lush surrounds.

Shake the legs out for another day of fantastic hiking, dramatic landscapes and captivating views. Trek through a river valley up to the gorgeous Laguna Torre for dazzling views of Cerro Torre and Mt Fitz Roy. At the day’s end, jump on a bus to El Calafate. Spend a day exploring town before visiting the surreal Perito Moreno Glacier.

Fly back to Buenos Aires and see some of the sights you didn’t get to the first time before this adventure comes to an end.

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

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Intrepid Travel Reviews & Ratings

Other intrepid travel reviews, we joined the intrepid “real italy food….

We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information....

Audrey Tavares

Central Asia Explorer

This was my third trip with Intrepid, and I'll continue to plan future trips with them. I choose Intrepid to travel to parts of the world where I don't feel comforta...

Do not book a tour with Intrepid

Do not book a tour with Intrepid. Their “policy” on deposits is unreasonable, inflexible and downright thieving. I booked a tour in India with them over seven month...

See all Other Intrepid Travel reviews

Travelers also viewed

Best Argentina Luxury Food & Wine Journey

Argentina in 14 days - Essence of Argentina - Luxury

Ice to Sun 2023: Argentina & Brazil

Glaciers, Falls & Tango

Christmas in Antarctica: Antarctic Peninsula

Tour operator, intrepid travel, the intrepid travel experience.

If you’re looking for adventure, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 25 years, we’ve been taking small groups of travelers on unforgettable trips around the world. What makes them unforgettable? Take a look for yourself and discover the Intrepid experience.

Our travelers have three styles of tour to choose from: Basix, Original and Comfort. Each has a different level of inclusions and accommodation, but all have unforgettable real life experiences as part of the package. Travellers can also choose themed trips, such as Family, Sailing or Food, to suit their interests.

Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

Why Intrepid?

•   Small groups - average of 10 people per trip
•   Sustainability - pioneers for the industry
•   Local leaders - authentic perspectives
•   Local transport - get close and personal
•   Local accommodation - experience real living
•   Intrepid travelers - like-minded companions 

Intrepid Travel has come a long way since its beginnings in 1989. From two university friends, a typewriter and a kitchen desk, it is now a proud member of The Intrepid Group, taking over 100,000 travelers every year.

Intrepid Travel is part of The Intrepid Group of companies, alongside leading small group adventure companies Peregrine, Urban Adventures and PEAK DMC.

Despite growing into a global business with over 1,000 staff based all over the world and over 800 different trips across every continent, we’ve remained devoted to the same grassroots values and responsible travel philosophies that we had at the very beginning.

On every trip we operate and in every interaction we have with a client, supplier or local, we live our core values everyday:

• Integrity – Doing the right thing
• Responsible – Think global, act local
• Growth – Stakeholders in our own success
• Innovation – Thriving on new ideas and embracing change
• Fun – It’s engrained into who we are and what we do
• Passion – We are inspired by the work we do and the trips we offer

Tweets by Intrepid_Travel

Associations

About Travelstride

Find your perfect trip, travel confidently, accommodation, transportation & flights, transportation & flights.

12 Breakfasts

Style descriptions

Our Original style trips have a great balance of included activities with your group and free time to explore independently. Where we stay ensures we keep our travellers firmly entrenched in a region’s people and culture, and provides them with unique local experiences that benefits the community too. In most locations we stay in simple tourist-class hotels (i.e. 2-3 stars), plus on many trips you'll also get to experience a night with a local family on a homestay or something a little different like a Bedouin camp in the Sahara. Original style trips come with all manner of transport modes and use a mixture of local and private transport. You might find yourself sailing in a dhow in Zanzibar, jumping on a rickshaw in Sri Lanka or sailing on a yacht through the Galapagos. No matter the mode, it's all about minimising our environmental impact and making getting around part of the adventure.

Finish point

• Azcuénaga 1268
• Buenos Aires

Become a member

• Save up to $700 per person
• Access members-only specials
• Personalize trip recommendations

Torres del Paine & Isla Navarino Adventure Tour

Northern Argentina, Chile & Uyuni Salt Flats Adventure

Antarctic Wildlife Adventure: Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

Best of Brazil

Wonders of South America

Tour companies, things to do, itineraries.

• South America
• Walking Hiking and Trekking

Trek Patagonia

10 Days Starting in Santiago and ending in Buenos Aires

Visiting: Argentina, Chile

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

Physical rating:.

15-99 years

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

Trip styles:.

Active , Walking Hiking and Trekking

Photography

Activities:

Art Galleries & Museums , Sightseeing

This tour is no longer available

Tour overview.

Visit South America and travel to Patagonia – a fascinating region in the far south of Chile and Argentina, rich in natural beauty, dramatic vistas and cosmopolitan cities oozing with passion and culture. Feel the contrast as you trek the W Hike through the Patagonian wilderness and explore the urban metropolis of Santiago. From camping near the end of the earth and witnessing gargantuan glaciers to indulging in the modernity of Buenos Aires, this trip will reward those with a sense of adventure, an appreciation of nature and an interest in diversity.

Discover two very different sides of Chile – the big-city pulse of soulful Santiago and the adventure-fuelled atmosphere of lakeside Puerto Natales.

Argentina's Perito Moreno Glacier must be seen to be believed. This massive, blue-hued natural wonder is one of Patagonia's real crown jewels.

Trek past granite pillars, sparkling lakes and gushing waterfalls in Torres del Paine National Park on a four-day camping trip with all your meals taken care of.

Finish in Buenos Aires, Argentina's sensational and sultry capital. Stay on and explore its many corners at your leisure, from the star-studded Recoleta cemetery to the tucked-away milongas (tango halls).

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

What's Included

• Buenos Aires - Orientation walk

El Calafate - Perito Moreno Glacier day trip

Buenos Aires - Leader-led orientation walk

9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners

Accommodation

• Hotel (5 nights), Camping (with basic facilities - 4 nights)

Plane, local bus, Private vehicle, Boat

What's Not Included

International Travel

Tipping and Gratuities

• Plane , local bus , private vehicle , boat

Included Activities

• El Calafate - Perito Moreno Glacier visit

Check out our Q&As

Are internal flights included in this tour.

Yes, Santiago to Punta Arenas and El Calafate to Buenos Areis

Is this trip right for you

A good level of fitness is required to complete the multiple treks included on this trip. See the 'Physical Rating' section for more information. Weather in Patagonia can be wild, so it's important to prepare for all elements. Rain, wind and extreme cold are all part of the adventure. As a result of this wild weather the hikes and activities within Torres del Paine National Park may not always happen in the order they appear in the itinerary, so if you are prepeared to be a little flexible, you will have a great time! We've sourced our accommodation very carefully and picked the best possible hotels in line with the Intrepid style of travel, but please note that service and accommodation in Argentina and Chile may differ from standards at home.

Are all entrance fees included in the price?

Yes, except optional activities

Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

Yes if aged 15+ and accompanied by an adult

Are airport transfers included in this tour?

Are the local guides on the tour english speaking, what policies are in place for covid-19.

Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

How long has the tour company been trading?

Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

What ethical travel credentials does the tour company have.

Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

North american adventure.

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Cambodia Discovery

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Explore Southern Africa

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Amazing Guatemala and beyond tour with Intrepid

Did Guatemala and beyond trip in November 22. It was amazing, we were so well looked after by our guide Aura. She was very knowledgeable and during our bus trips she gave us the history of the 4 countries. The border crossings can be tricky but handled very well by our guide. We saw all the most interesting and beautiful places. The hotels were lovely comfortable colonial style. I will travel with intrepid again

Central American Journey

Very enjoyable, good paced Tour. Tour Leader, Choko was helpful, knowledgeable and extremely informative.

Wonderful Croatian tour

Our tour guide,Tamara, was the highlight of our Explore Croatia tour. She was knowledgeable, organized, and so kind and fun. Croatia is a beautiful country. I loved the people, the scenery, the food, the history. I hope to go back one day. Intrepid was perfect for me. There was group time and there was plenty of free time. It wasn’t a luxury tour but all of our accommodations were clean and safe. The dinner in Hvar was SO special!

One Week In Costa Rica

The trip was amazing, everything was well planned out & there wasn't any issues. The tour guide was very friendly and made the experience fun. During the trip I didn't have to worry about safety as we were never put in harms way. I would definitely recommend & do again.

North Morocco Adventure

Touring the beautiful North of Morocco I learned far more than I’d anticipated in this 9 day tour. Interesting sights to see, with knowledgeable local guides, this tour provides a great balance of exposure to a different culture with ample time for relaxation. Chefchaouen is an absolute highlight, & not a place many Morocco trips of this kind go to. Loved it!

Essential Morocca

Essential Morocco was an absolute dream. Every single day had such informative walking tours and tours of local facilities. Whether it was dinner with a local family or visiting a pottery factory, I learned so much about Moroccan culture. The accommodations were safe and I felt secure the entire 11 days. This trip wouldn’t have been the same without one person. That person is Youssef. If you are coming to Morocco with Intrepid and you don’t request Youssef, you’re doing it wrong. Words cannot describe how incredible of a guide he is. There were 3 of us on our trip of 18-29 year olds and he made us all feel so welcome and safe all the time. Whether that is cracking jokes on long drives or giving us the itinerary for the next day, Youssef ensured we felt respected and seen.

Cambodia Adventure

Absolutely superb leader - knowledgeable. fun, safety conscious. Group of 15 travellers from 5 countries who bonded into a solid team. In addition to a fantastic itinerary, our leader’s love of karaoke made the trip unforgettable. It even inspired a song written as a tribute to him.

Book with Confidence

Free date changes.

Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

Transfer as credit to Future Tours

Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

Low Deposit

Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy

We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

COVID Protection

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19. However, we continue to strongly recommend that all travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and other Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully. This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination remains a requirement. Please refer to the Essential Trip Information of your chosen tour for more details.

Why book with tourhub?

Safe & secure.

Your money is protected in an external trust until you travel.

100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.

The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.

Guaranteed Best Value

Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.

No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.

(Operator terms may apply)

Expert Knowledge

Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.

Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.

Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.

Trusted Service

Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.

Don't just take our word for it...

"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."

Similar Tours

Travel guru features, our reviews.

Join our mailing list to receive the latest updates and travel inspiration.

Deals of the Week   Solo is the new black   Up to 50% OFF

Patagonia Short Break - Torres Del Paine (3 destinations)

• Fully Guided
• Christmas & New Year

• Introduction
• Day 1 Puerto Natales
• Day 2 Torres del Paine National Park
• Day 3 Balmaceda & Serrano Glacier Navigation
• Day 4 Trek to Torres del Paine National Park
• Day 5 Puerto Natales

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Sustainability initiatives.

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• John · 29th November 2023 Our guide Javiar was superb. Took great care of us. Food was also very good. The itinerary was well planned and went... Show more
• Antonio · 29th October 2023 It was amazing! Pack some things for travel diarrhea xD
• Dianne · 7th April 2023 Great hotel. Great tour. Local tour guides were fantastic

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• December 2025
• Wednesday 15 May, 2024 Sunday 19 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Twin €1,392 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 16 May, 2024 Monday 20 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Twin €1,392 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Friday 17 May, 2024 Tuesday 21 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Twin €1,392 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Saturday 18 May, 2024 Wednesday 22 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Twin €1,392 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 19 May, 2024 Thursday 23 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Twin €1,392 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Monday 20 May, 2024 Friday 24 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Twin €1,392 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Tuesday 21 May, 2024 Saturday 25 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Twin €1,392 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Wednesday 22 May, 2024 Sunday 26 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Twin €1,392 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 7 Other Unavailable Departures

Space on this tour is not guaranteed. Book this tour to request your place and the operator will confirm availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currency $ Chilean Peso Chile

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Chile. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Chile. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Chile. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Chile. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 11th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 11th July 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
• African Safari
• Southern Thailand y tours
• Peru January 2025 tours
• 10 Best Family Safari Holiday Packages
• Camino de Santiago - Training Guide and Dista…
• Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Ultimate Safar…
• Ecuador Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

Similar Tours

Keep Exploring Chile

• Chile Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Patagonia Trekking Companies (with 143 Reviews)
• Best Explorer Tours and Trips 2024/2025
• Chile from Puerto Natales
• Chile Explorer
• Small group tour
• 5 days Chile
• Operators in Latin America
• Chile Austral
• Torres del Paine National Park
• Patagonia Short Break - Torres Del Paine (3 destinations) Tours in Chile
• Explorer Tours
• Group Tours
• Fully Guided Tours
• Christmas & New Year Tours
• Andes Mountains
• Chile tours

Russia Tours & Holidays

Our thoughts and hearts are with the people in Ukraine, including our own team members, tour leaders and their families, who have been deeply impacted by this senseless war and invasion of Ukraine.

Intrepid is not currently operating any tours that visit Ukraine, Russia or Belarus and tours in these countries have been cancelled for the foreseeable future.

Intrepid condemns the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Russian government’s aggression towards Ukraine and its people.

Any future decisions to resume operations in Russia will be based not only on the safety of our travellers and the communities we visit, but the stability of Europe and a clear path to peace for all innocent and oppressed people who have fallen victim to this violence.

The Intrepid Foundation has launched an emergency appeal in partnership with Australian Red Cross to provide support (food, water, shelter & medicine) within Ukraine and assistance for displaced people in surrounding counties. We ask that you please consider giving at  The Intrepid Foundation Ukraine Crisis Appeal

We hope for a peaceful path out of this crisis soon and are continuing to monitor the situation closely.

Articles of Russia

Should you travel solely based on food experiences?

7 unforgettable experiences you can only have on an Intrepid Premium trip

Maly Turysh: the Russian village where bees and babushkas reign supreme

5 unique experiences you can only have in a local’s home in Russia

Above the Arctic Circle: Staying with Siberia’s nomadic reindeer herders

High Altai-tude: Hiking to the Blue Lake in Siberia

Meet the travellers who booked an adventure without an itinerary.

Why you should consider a winter adventure in Russia

Russia at a glance

Capital city.

Moscow (population approximately 12 million)

Approximately 145 million

Russian Ruble (RUB)

(GMT+03:00) Moscow, St. Petersburg, Volgograd

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Russia

Culture and customs.

Russia may be one country but it’s the sum of its varied parts. You’ll find the  European  parts of Russia, like St Petersburg and Moscow, quite fast-paced and cosmopolitan compared to Siberian towns like Lake Baikal. Then there’s the far north and Arctic towns like Murmansk that have an entirely different way of life again.

The most widely practised religion is Russian Orthodox Christianity, with about 40 percent of Russians identifying themselves as adherents of the sect. There is also a significant population of Muslims and about a quarter of the population identify as non-religious. Around Lake Baikal there is a fairly large population of Old Believers – Christians who practise an older form of Orthodox Christianity and more traditional way of life.

Russians may have a reputation for being frosty but most locals across this vast land value camaraderie and hospitality. Smiles aren’t necessarily doled out just to make strangers feel more comfortable, but no matter where you are, if you’re polite and curious you can expect to be embraced by Russians (though maybe not in the physical sense). An invitation to dinner will undoubtedly end in the host showering you with copious amounts of food and drink (yes, we’re talking about vodka).

Fiercely proud of (and vocal about) their contributions to the arts and sciences (brush up on your Tolstoy and Chekov before your visit), Russians don’t take kindly to negative stereotypes and generalisations about their country. Go with an open mind and you’ll find Russians ready and willing to share their hospitality, traditions and love for their country with you.

History and government

There isn’t a lot of concrete information available on the early humans who lived on the land now known as Russia. However, rudimentary tools unearthed in the North Caucasus region (near  Georgia  and  Azerbaijan ) suggest that the greater region has been occupied (not necessarily continuously) for around 1.5 million years.

The Mongols vs The Princes

Legend says the Viking ruler of Novgorod, Oleg, conquered Kiev in the ninth century and used its strategic position to form the Slavic state of Rus’ – a collection of various noble families that coordinated trade but ruled each of their territories independently. The 13th century saw all Rus’ territories ceded to the Mongols, but the royals were often allowed to continue governing their territories as long as they paid lavish tribute to their Mongol superiors. The princes of Rus’ bided their time, buttering up their rulers by crushing peasant uprisings, and in the 15th century the nobility of Rus’, led by Ivan the Great, began to take back territory from the Mongols by force.

Ivan the Terrible crowned himself the first ‘Tsar of all the Russians’ in 1547. His legacy includes the beginning of the exploration and colonisation of Siberia and the unification of Russia under a nationalist autocrat. Michael Romanov assumed the position of Tsar of Russia in 1613, which began the approximately 300-year reign of the Romanov family, during which Russia conquered territory in  Belarus , Crimea,  Ukraine , Georgia,  Estonia ,  Kazakhstan  and more.

In 1917, widespread strikes and protests broke out across the country, motivated by a desire for better working conditions, better pay and a fairer society. As a result of this uprising, the last of the Romanovs in Russia (many royals and their supporters had at this point already fled the country) were first placed under house arrest and then executed in 1918.

Soviet Union

The series of uprisings in 1917 led to a years-long period of civil war between the Bolsheviks (communists) and the Whites (anti-communists), from which the Bolsheviks emerged triumphant. The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) was formed in the same year, led by Joseph Stalin. He consolidated his power and emerged as a fierce dictator, with policies of forced labour and brutal repression replacing dreams of a democratic socialist state led by workers. After Stalin’s death in 1953, the USSR began to decentralise, modernise and become less repressive until its eventual dissolution – or collapse – In 1991. 

After the dissolution of the USSR, Russia underwent a very fast period of economic liberalisation, with mixed results. Russia experienced a series of financial crises throughout the 1990s from which it was slow to recover, and income disparity is still a big problem throughout the country.

Eating and drinking

Like a lot of countries with colder climates, Russia's food is typically heavy and hearty. Pickling and preserving are popular as a result of the need for food that can last through harsh winters when produce may be scarce. In large cities like Moscow and St Petersburg, the food scene is cosmopolitan and diverse, with plenty of chefs experimenting with fusion dishes and new takes on Russian classics.

We’ve compiled a list of the most bread-sopping, jaw-dropping, mouth-watering Russian drinks and dishes you should make a beeline for during your travels:

• Laghman A signature dish of Tatarstan, a semi-independent part of western-central Russia, laghman is a tasty meal of thick pulled noodles served with meat and vegetables.
• Vodka Even if you’re not normally a fan of the clear spirit, drinking vodka in Russia is undeniably a cultural experience just as much as a way to get your buzz on. Usually served straight from the freezer – neat or in a shot glass – and accompanied by a rousing toast (and sometimes a little snack called a zakuski), vodka is an easy way to bond with locals – just don’t ask for a mixer.
• Medovukha This liquor, made from fermented honey, has been around since bee farming first became a thing and the drink still maintains a vintage air. Russia has a long beekeeping tradition and honey is still a huge industry across the country, which also makes for a healthy medovukha (mead) industry.
• Pelmeni (dumplings) A Siberian classic, these meat and vegetable-filled packages are the perfect antidote to frigid winters. Often served with sour cream and dill, the little parcels of goodness have a more rustic and earthy flavour profile than their  South East Asian  counterparts.
• Blini Somewhere between a crepe and a pancake, the blini can be served with either sweet or savoury toppings as diverse as caviar, salmon, jam and honey. They’re most popular during Maslenisa, the week before Great Lent in Russian Orthodox Christianity.
• Pickles Pickling, the art of preserving produce in jars, is a widespread artform in Russia. From wooden cabins in rural villages to cramped apartments in St Petersburg, you’ll see jars filled with slowly curing cucumbers, tomatoes, mushrooms and more lining the kitchen shelves of local homes.
• Chebureki Another Tatarstan classic, chebureki consists of meat stuffed in flaky pastry that is then deep fried. Onions, beef and pepper make up the traditional filling in this easy-to-eat street food staple, which are perfect as a roadside snack or bite between sightseeing.
• Borscht It’s sad that this soup has become little more than a punchline to an unfunny joke about Eastern European food since in reality it’s a rich and respectable dish with an impressive history. Made from beetroot and typically including meat, garlic and stock, there’s a longstanding cultural stoush over who the sour soup really belongs to, with  Ukraine  also claiming the dish as its own.

Plant-based options

Forget what you’ve heard! Travelling as a vegetarian in Russia has always been relatively easy, as many staples of Russian cuisine are vegetarian by default. In terms of classic Russian dishes, vegetarians can safely order dishes like blini (pancakes), boiled potatoes, beetroot salads, fried potatoes and cabbage pelmeni.  

Travelling as a vegan requires a bit of creativity if you’re planning on leaving the major cities. Vegans should be aware the side dishes favoured by vegetarians are often prepared or served with animal fats. However, even eateries in small towns will usually have a few vegan options on the menu like salad, bread and potatoes cooked in oil. Both vegetarians and vegans should keep in mind that vegetable soups are frequently made with meat stock that may not be listed on the menu. 

Of course, this is all a lot easier when you’re travelling with a local, someone who knows the language and the culture and can help you tell your sorrel from your schi (they’re both soups FYI). If you travel with Intrepid, you’ll have a local leader who can help you decipher menus and recommend good plant-based choices.

Geography and environment

Sharing its border with 14 countries, as well as the Pacific and Arctic oceans, Russia is the largest country in the world (twice the size of runner-up  Canada ). It’s not surprising, then, that Russia’s environment is incredibly diverse and ranges from Arctic tundra to coniferous forests and mountain ranges.

Siberia is the vast expanse that makes up almost 80 per cent of Russia’s territory. This region is known for its bitter climate and wilderness, with winter temperatures ranging from -45°C (-49°F) in the Sakha Republic to -22°C (-7.6°F) in warmer areas like Omsk. Though much of Siberia’s landscape cannot support agriculture, it’s home to a wealth of natural resources like natural gas, oil, coal and gold. For this reason, Siberia is home to some industrial cities that operate in mind-boggling environments, built on permafrost with expert engineering to withstand extreme conditions.

The Ural Mountains separate Siberia from European Russia, which houses about 80 per cent of the country’s population despite making up around 20 per cent of its land mass. European Russia – which makes up most of the East European Plain – is made up primarily of large plains, waterways and wetlands. The climate here is more seasonal than in Siberia, featuring winters with temperatures below freezing, but warm and wet summers.

From the Ural Mountains, Russia’s 102,000 kilometres of waterways flow into the Baltic, White, Caspian and Black seas through this East European Plain.

It's not just stories you'll return home from Russia with. There'll be plenty of opportunities to get your mittens on one of these iconic Russian mementos (and maybe grab some for your friends too):

You may not be able to bring a lot of it back, depending on your country’s customs laws, but you should try to grab at least one bottle of Russian vodka while you’re here. Extra points for grabbing a bottle of Putinka – named after Russia’s President Putin.

Russia's famous matryoshka, or 'babushka', dolls were first crafted in the 19th century and remain one of Russia's most recognised souvenirs.

Need a stylish but no-nonsense hat that also protects you from the elements? Never fear, ushanka is here. You can get the kind made from inexpensive synthetic materials in tourist shops or pick up the animal fur variety, depending on whether you plan to use it for costumes or during a Trans-Siberian trek.

Take your commitment to tea parties to an ornate extreme with a Russian samovar. A precursor to the kettle, a samovar has two main chambers. The inner chamber is ventilated and made for burning a small fire. This fire then boils water held in the outer chamber where tea can be steeped. If that all sounds a bit labour intensive for you, they also make a fancy decoration or the perfect vessel for cocktails on tap.

Festivals and events

Believe the hype, not the stereotypes, because there's nothing Russians love more than a reason to celebrate. These are some of the biggest days on the festival calendar:

White Nights Festival

It isn’t always pretty living this close to the Arctic Circle. Winter in St Petersburg, while undeniably beautiful, can be brutal. Of course, the flip side of the freezing winters are summers where the days never seem to end. While true ‘midnight sun’ doesn’t occur in St Petersburg (the sun sets for at least a few hours each day), the city sees very little darkness over the high summer months of June and July. St Petersburg hosts parties, performances and cultural events throughout this period, the exact dates of which change every year. This is a great time to visit the city as the streets hum with energy while the locals celebrate summer.

Victory Day

On 9 May every year, a massive display of military strength takes place in Moscow’s Red Square. Partly a commemoration of the end of WWII, partly a celebration of Russian pride, this massively popular event seems to get bigger every year. If you’re interested in military history, national identity or modern Russian politics, you might be interested in planning your trip to coincide with Victory Day.

Winter Festival

It makes sense that a country that experiences sub-zero temperatures for so many months of the year would find a way to embrace the cold. Every year during December and January, Moscow transforms into a festive wonderland complete with a glittering Christmas village in Revolution Square, ice skating at Gorky Park and a public snowman-making extravaganza on Arbat Street. If you’re travelling to Russia during the darker months, a visit to Moscow during the Winter Festival is a must.

With origins as a Pagan folk holiday to mark the end of winter, today’s Maslenisa celebration is a chance to eat your fill of Russian pancakes (blini) while taking in various celebrations before the sombre Russian Orthodox Pascha period comes around. It’s an incredibly joyful and delicious time to be in Russia.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Russia adventure, check out these books:

• War and Peace  – Leo Tolstoy
• GULAG: A History  – Anne Applebaum
• The Women of Lazarus  – Marina Stepnova
• The Big Green Tent  – Lyudmila Ulitskaya
• Heart of a Dog  – Mikhail Bulgakov
• Lenin's Tomb  – David Remnick
• Secondhand Time  – ­Svetlana Alexievich
• Selected Stories  – Anton Chekov

Russia travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Russia?

The summer months (June, July and August) are the most popular time for international tourists in Russia as the weather is warmest and the days are longest. Russia doesn’t quite get midnight sun but its proximity to the Arctic Circle means the high summer is accompanied by daylight that stretches until 11 pm. Summer in Russia is also when St Petersburg hosts all-night parties, performances and cultural events as part of the White Nights Festival. The downsides? The major sights and cities get pretty busy and it rains a lot.

While the charms of summer in Russia are well known, we’re actually quite partial to  winter travel  in the region. While Moscow and its milder cousin St Petersburg are prone to temperatures below 0°C (32°F) from November through to March, the snow coating the cities is unbelievably beautiful. There are fewer tourists, more chances to interact with locals and (in December and January) incredible Christmas decorations and festivities that light up the frosty streets and squares. Plus,  Russian food  is hearty and designed to keep you warm.

If you’re travelling to Siberia be prepared for a subarctic climate. That means even in summer you can expect July temperatures to max out at between 10°C (50°F) and 17°C (63°F). If you can handle the cold, a Siberian winter is really something to remember. Despite temperatures reaching an eye-watering -22°C (-7.6°F) in Lake Baikal in January, the frozen waters and winter wonderland vibes more than make up for it. Besides, homes and cities in Siberia are built to handle the cold so you’ll do fine once you’re inside.

Do I need a visa to travel to Russia?

While the Russian visa process has a reputation for being complicated and strict, things are getting easier every year for travellers who want to visit the country. Most nationalities need a visa to enter Russia, with exceptions given to former USSR states like Ukraine and most countries in  South  and  Central America .

Travellers from the USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand need to obtain a visa before travelling to Russia. Before you contact your embassy or consulate, you will need to get your Letter of Invitation sorted. Fortunately, we will organise this for you. Our full guide to visas and LOIs can be found  here .

Is tipping customary in Russia?

Tipping is appreciated but not expected in Russia. At restaurants there is often a service charge included on the bill, in which case you don’t need to tip. If you would like to tip for good service, rounding up the bill or adding a 10–15 per cent gratuity is more than enough.

What is the internet access like in Russia?

If you’re planning to use your mobile phone in Russia (with either global roaming activated or by using a local SIM) you’ll find internet in the major cities is quick and free wi-fi is often available through hotspots. Just keep in mind that in order to connect to hotspots you will have to authenticate your identity. Travellers will be able to find internet cafes in Russia's large cities like Moscow, St Petersburg and Suzdal. In rural areas, internet access might be patchy or non-existent.

Internet access is available on the Trans-Siberian Railway for certain legs of the journey. This requires purchase of a local connection (around USD 40), which will work with some laptops and certain 3G devices.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Russia?

Mobile phone coverage is generally good in the cities and regional centres of Russia, although coverage may not be available in remote areas. If you want to use your mobile phone, ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive (but be aware of the fees this may incur).

What are the toilets like in Russia?

Travellers can expect to encounter both squat toilets and modern flushable toilets while travelling through Russia. Be prepared by carrying your own soap and toilet paper as these aren't always provided. Additionally, some public toilets may require a small fee payment before access, so be sure to carry change.

What will it cost for a...?

Russia's unit of currency is the ruble. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

• Trip on the metro = USD 0.70
• Internet cafe surfing = USD 1–3 per hour
• Serve of vodka in a ryumochnaya = USD 1–2
• Pint of beer = USD 2.5
• Canteen meal = USD 5–10
• Dinner at a restaurant = USD 15–20

Can I drink the water in Russia?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Russia. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Ask your leader or hotel where filtered water can be found and don't forget to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Russia?

Credit cards are usually accepted by hotels, large retailers and shops but may not be accepted by smaller vendors. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Russia?

Travellers will be able to find ATMs in Russia's large cities and regional centres. Remote and rural areas will have less ATM availability, so prepare accordingly before venturing out of metropolitan areas.

What is the weather like in Russia?

Given the size of Russia, the weather tends to vary depending on where you are. From June through September most of the country, aside from Siberia, will see warm weather. The long winter from November until March/April sees snow and freezing temperatures, while temperatures in the shoulder seasons vary from place to place. St Petersburg, for example, may see temperatures ranging from 5­–20°C (41­–68°F) degrees in the lead up to summer.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Russia?

• 1 January  New Year’s Day
• 7 January  Russian Orthodox Christmas Day
• 23 February  Defender of the Fatherland Day
• 8 March  International Women’s Day
• 1 May  International Labour Day/Spring Festival
• 9 May  Victory Day
• 12 June  Russian Independence Day
• 4 November  Unity Day

Keep in mind that some businesses shut down in the ten days leading up to 7 January.  

For a current list of public holidays in Russia go to  worldtravelguide.net

Is Russia a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

We recommend LGBTQIA+ travellers exercise discretion when travelling in Russia.

Russia is not a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers who wish to openly express sexuality and/or gender identity outside of a very rigid, heterosexual binary. Openly LGBTQIA+ people face stigma, harassment and violence in their everyday lives. Homosexuality isn't illegal but promoting ‘non-traditional sexual relationships’ is. What constitutes promotion is at the discretion of the authorities. Travellers have been arrested in the past for discussing gay rights with young people.

There are active queer scenes in the larger cities, but travellers should be aware that people leaving venues known to cater to LGBTQIA+ folks are often the target of violence. The venues themselves are sometimes targeted, too. Attempting to seek out local queer culture while in Russia may pose a risk to travellers. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Russia accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

While the situation is improving, Russia is still a difficult destination to explore for travellers with disabilities. Even in large cities like Moscow and St Petersburg, old infrastructure has been slow to adapt to the needs of differently abled travellers. Where ramps exist, for example, they are often incredibly steep and therefore useless.

While the exterior of some sites are accessible to wheelchair users, it is often not possible to explore them fully. For example, wheelchair users will be able to enter the Kremlin but can’t access its cathedrals. The stations of the Moscow Metro often have no ramps or elevators, however most of the buses in Moscow are accessible to wheelchair users.

The streets of Moscow and St Petersburg may pose a problems to travellers with restricted mobility or vision impairments as they can be uneven and road crossings are sometimes via tunnels that are only accessible by staircase.

While international chain hotels are often built with the needs of accessible travellers in mind, homestays, guesthouses and locally-run hotels are generally not fitted with ramps, elevators, shower rails etc. Unfortunately, overnight train travel in Russia will be difficult for wheelchair users as the bathrooms are not designed for accessibility.  

If you have a battery-operated hearing aid, it’s a good idea to bring extra batteries.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Russia

What you wear in Russia will depend on what time of the year you’re travelling in. If you’re visiting between October and May you will need to be prepared with a warm windproof jacket, scarf, gloves, warm hat and waterproof and slip-proof boots – the streets get icy in the colder months! Even in summer, we recommend you wear clothing that can be easily layered and pack a warm jacket and boots.

When entering churches, either working or historic, women and men should both cover their shoulders and women will need a scarf to cover their head. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.