Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers some of the most common questions about GeoWorld Travel’s trips, including booking, trip structure, accommodation, travel arrangements, and practical considerations.
The information below is intended to help you understand how GeoWorld Travel operates and what to expect before joining a trip. If you have a question that is not covered here, please feel free to get in touch.
Booking and payment
How do I book a GeoWorld Travel trip?
To confirm current availability and to start the booking process, complete an online contact form, letting us know which trip you want to book on and how many people it is for. For nearly all trips, we will then send you a booking form and details of the required deposit payment to secure your place.
The trip I’m interested in is showing as full on the website, is it worth me getting in touch?
Yes! We maintain waitlists for all of our trips, as if there is a cancellation, we may be able to offer you a place.
Is a deposit required to book?
Yes. A 20% deposit is required to confirm your place on a trip. The balance is payable 90 days before departure, unless otherwise stated. Our Greenland and Antarctica trips are slightly different, and we will let you know about the booking process when you enquire.
What happens after I book?
After booking, you will receive an email confirmation of your booking and an updated invoice confirming your deposit payment. Closer to the departure date, we will send out further information about your trip, including practical details and preparation guidance.
Can I book by telephone?
Booking is normally handled by email only. Telephone or WhatsApp calls are available by appointment.
Trip structure and guiding
Who leads GeoWorld Travel trips?
Most trips are led by GeoWorld Travel’s founder, James Cresswell, a professional geologist. Some trips are delivered in collaboration with long-term local guides and field partners.
Are these technical geology field courses?
No. GeoWorld Travel trips are not technical field courses. Whilst they will appeal to experienced, professional geologists, we also ensure that geological concepts are explained clearly and accessibly, for those with little or no prior geological knowledge.
How much walking is involved?
Walking levels vary by trip. Some days involve short walks to viewpoints or outcrops, while others may include longer hikes. Trip pages provide guidance on expected activity levels.
Group size and participants
How large are the groups?
Group sizes are small, typically ranging from around 10 to 20 participants (or 4 participants on the day tour), depending on the trip.
Who are these trips suitable for?
Trips are open to all adults with an interest in geology and landscape. Participants range from complete beginners to experienced geologists. We will consider young adults from 16-18 years old joining tours, but this will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis – please contact us to discuss.
Do I need a background in geology?
No. No prior geological training or knowledge is required.
Accommodation and transport
What standard of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is typically comfortable, often at a three- or four-star standard hotels or guest houses, with en-suite facilities and breakfast provided. We will provide a list of hotels around eight weeks prior to departure.
Do the hotels have lifts/elevators?
Many of the hotels or guest houses we stay in on our European and African trips do not have lifts/elevators. You may be required to carry your luggage up some stairs.
What is the difference between Double, Twin and Single rooms and what size are the beds?
We use UK terminology when describing rooming options, so a Double Room will usually contain one UK Double (or King) size bed (equivalent to a US Full or Queen), suitable for a couple. A Single Room will either contain one UK Single or Double sized bed (equivalent to a US Twin or Full) for single occupancy. A Twin Room will contain two separate UK Single size beds (equivalent to two US Twin size), suitable for two friends sharing.
Can I book additional nights before and/or after the GeoWorld Travel trip?
It may be possible to extend your booking at our first and/or last hotels of the trip, but this is completely dependent on availability and cannot be guaranteed. The earlier that a request is made, the more likely we are to be able to add nights to your booking.
Can GeoWorld Travel arrange airport transfers?
As a rule, we do not arrange airport transfers, but they are included in the price on some tours. Please see the ‘Included/Not Included’ box at the bottom of the itinerary on each individual trip web page for more details.
What transport is used during trips?
Transport varies by destination and may include coaches, mini-coaches, 4×4 vehicles, ferries, boats, or other local transport, depending on terrain and itinerary. Some trips also include trains and cable cars. Our Greenland and Antarctica trips are on expedition cruise ships.
Travel, flights, and insurance
Are flights included?
Flights are not included. Guests are responsible for arranging their own travel to and from the trip start point.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all GeoWorld Travel trips, particularly insurance for emergency medical treatment and repatriation. Details of required cover are outlined on the Travel Insurance page.
Can you sell us travel insurance?
We cannot sell you travel insurance directly, but we have a recommended provider for UK-based customers and an affiliate company for non-UK based customers. Their details can be found on the Travel Insurance page on our website.
What documents do I need?
You are responsible for ensuring you have a valid passport, visas, and any other required documentation for the destination.
Safety and responsibility
Are GeoWorld Travel trips safe?
Trips are planned with safety as a priority and use experienced guides and trusted local partners. However, travel always involves some level of risk, particularly in remote environments. Our biggest hazards are slips, trips and falls, so we strongly recommend sturdy, grippy footwear, along with walking poles if you prefer to use them.
How does GeoWorld Travel approach responsible travel?
GeoWorld Travel is committed to responsible, geology-led travel, including respect for geological heritage, local communities, and environmental considerations. Further details are provided on the Climate Change & Responsible Travel page.
Cancellations and changes
What happens if I need to cancel?
Cancellation terms are outlined in the Terms & Conditions. Refunds and charges depend on how close to departure the cancellation occurs.
What if GeoWorld Travel cancels a trip?
In the unlikely event that a trip is cancelled by GeoWorld Travel, you will be offered a refund or alternative arrangements in line with the Terms & Conditions.
General
Do you provide a packing list?
We don’t provide a comprehensive, full packing list, but we do provide a list of suggested items for each trip in individual Trip Information Documents, which are circulated eight weeks prior to departure.
Where is GeoWorld Travel based?
GeoWorld Travel is based in Wales and operates trips internationally.
How can I contact GeoWorld Travel?
The best way to get in touch is via the contact form on the Contact page. Telephone or WhatsApp calls are available by appointment only.