What's Included ?

To offer the best value on the market, the following features are included in the price of your Contiki:

Accommodation (twin-share Superior Tourist Class hotels on SUPERIOR ITINERARIES; blend of Special Stopovers, Tourist Class properties and comfortable campsite cabins on BUDGET ITINERARIES)

All breakfasts and approximately half of the dinners (3-courses)

Hotel tips, local taxes and service charges

Experienced, professional tour manager and driver

All transportation on modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats, trains, ferries, cruise ships (as per itinerary)

City Sightseeing / Orientation tour

What's Not Included ?

Personal expense money

Visas, personal insurance, medical fees

Sightseeing and entrance fees other than those specified on the trip page

Lunches (unless specified under "all this included", some dinners and all meals on ferry crossings.

Optional Excursions and Activities such as white water rafting, gondola rides, etc.

Tips for Tour Manager and Driver (optional)

What do I pack for my Summer Europe Contiki tour (May-October)?

People are individuals though and often have personal preferences and opinions as to what to bring. The following then is not a definitive list, but should give you a good guide as to what you should pack for your European tour.

CLOTHES

1 rainproof jacket/small umbrella

2 or 3 shorts/skirts

1 thick sweater

1 or 2 Swimwear and beach towel

1 or 2 pairs of jeans

2 or 3 T-shirts

Underwear (lots)

Socks (lots)

2 or 3 casual shirts

Trousers

Dresses

1 set of smart clothes (eg going out dress, tie, blazer, jacket or suit for evenings out on tour)

SHOES

Comfortable walking shoes

Thongs/flipflops/sandals

‘Going out’ shoes

Toiletries

Toiletry bag and contents

Aspirins/medications

Suntan lotion

Handkerchiefs/tissues

Insect repellent

Miscellaneous

Travel Clock

Sunglasses

Plastic bags

Washing powder

Sewing kit

Pens and writing materials

Rechargeable phone card

Power adapters

Day bag

Overnight bag

Label your suitcase inside and out with your name and your home address and perhaps attach a sticker, ribbon, patch or other unique identifier to your luggage to make it easier to spot.

Carry a copy of your passport, visas, travel and other important documents as well as your travellers cheque numbers (if you use them) with you in your luggage. You should also leave a copy of all this information at home with someone trusted and contactable while you are away.

Don’t pack your travel documents and passport in your luggage, rather take it with you in your carry luggage.

Remember to bring more than enough of any medication you might need along with you and carry prescriptions for any medications that you carry with you.

How do I make a reservation?

Call 1-800-942-3301 to speak to a tour representative.

How do I make a change in my reservation?

Contact the travel agent you made your Contiki reservation through.

What if I need to cancel my tour?

Contact the travel agent you made your Contiki reservation through.

What are the cancellation fees?

PERIOD OF NOTICE CANCELLATION FEES

Over 45 days Deposit is forfeited

45-22 days 25% of tour cost forfeited

21-8 days 30% of tour cost forfeited

7-1 days 50% of tour cost forfeited

Day of Departure 100% of tour cost forfeited

Do you offer group tours or discounts?

Yes we do! For groups of 4 (four) or 7 (seven) and 10 (ten) or more on a standard Contiki itinerary please see the discounts offered to each group as listed in the “Specials” section of this site. For groups of 20 or more, please see the Groups FAQs for more information.

Are prices based on double occupancy?

Most prices are based on double occupancy, unless otherwise specified. For example, Australia and New Zealand tour prices are based on quadrouple share with twin room bookings on a request basis incurring a surcharge. Some tours offer single occupancy for an additional cost, or triple- or quad-share for a reduced price.

When is the best time to travel?

Contiki operates tours year-round, however some months are better for group travel than others. The chart below indicates “peak” months when travel can be more expensive and hotel availability may be more difficult to accommodate large groups. “Best time” to travel refers to when we suggest organizing your group travel for better availability, prices and less crowds.

PEAK BEST TIME

America & Canada May – Sept March – April; Sept – Oct

Europe June, July & August April – May; Sept – Nov

Australia Jan & Feb; Year Round

New Zealand  Jan & Feb; Nov – Dec; March – April; June – Oct (for Snow Skiing)

What’s the Earlybird Payment discount?

Contiki offers an Early Payment discount for all tours when the full tour cost is paid at least 4 months in advance. The discount amount is individual to each tour – please refer to the tour itinerary and costings for details.

For the Europe and America tours, there is a second Early Payment Discount option when the full tour cost is paid at least 6 months in advance which offers a larger discount.

Does it cost me anything to change my air itinerary?

It depends on the terms of the air reservation. If you purchased your air through Contiki you should ask your travel agent to contact Contiki for specific charges relating to your airfare.

Can I use my credit card to pay for my tour?

Yes, we accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover!

Can I have an extension on my payment?

Unfortunately our system is pre-configured to auto-cancel any booking with an outstanding balance 45 days prior to departure.

What’s included in the price of Contiki tours? What’s not?

Coach, train, most air transfers and ferry transport as specified are included. Accommodation and meals as per each individual tour itinerary are included as well and sightseeing and admission fees as shown under “All this included” on each tour itinerary.

What’s not included? Personal expense money, visas, personal insurance, medical fees, sightseeing and entrance fees other than those that are specified in your trip itineraries, optional excursions, lunches and some dinners and all meals on ferry crossings, and airport transfers unless specified.

How much is an extra night?/Can I extend my stay?

You can definitely extend your stay at most Contiki hotels that are used before or after your tour. Prices and availability do vary for each hotel.

If I have a medical condition, do I need to advise before I book the trip or go on tour?

Yes. It is imperative that you advise your Travel Agent or Contiki Reservation Agent if you have a medical condition at time of booking. A waiver must be completed and signed by the passenger and received by Contiki. Your waiver must be assessed and approved before payment can be made on any reservation.

What does “all inclusive” mean for a Contiki Resort?

Brunch, dinner, land transfers and free activities while at the resorts are a part of your all inclusive package. Drinks are not included.

What if I am not a US citizen?

If you are not a US citizen you are more than welcome to travel with Contiki. However, it is your responsibility to ensure you have the appropriate travel documentation for the countries you will visit on your tour.

If I meet up with the tour later, will it be cheaper?

Contiki gives you flexibility to join and leave a tour as you wish. However, Contiki does not discount for late arrivals or early departures on tours.

What’s the difference between a Camping, Budget and Superior tour?

Contiki offers three ways to travel: Camping, Concept/Budget, and TimeOut/Superior. The basic difference is in the type of accommodation.

Click here for detailed information.

Are the Getaway tours escorted or not? What is a Getaway?

Getaways are designed to give you flexibility and freedom but still all the advantages of group travel. The London & Paris Getaway is fully escorted with the option to independently extend your stay in Paris, Rome, or Amsterdam. The Rome and Amsterdam extensions feature an unescorted train connection where a local Contiki representative will greet you and the station in your “add-on” city. You will be transferred to the hotel and provided with local information on the day of arrival. This setup is the same for the Berlin & Prague Getaway that offer extensions to Vienna and Budapest

Are couples recommended to join a Concept tour?

For Concept tours, the room share is based on not more than 4 persons per room. And is usually matched with same gender so that many more could join the world’s most unique way to see and travel Europe, exclusively with Contiki.

And if you do not wish to let slip such wonderful and unique way to holidays on our Concept tours, we can accept your booking and during the tour, whenever possible; our Tour Manager would allocate 2-person rooms/cabins for just the two of you. And this is often subject to cabin/room’s availability during your tour; and the gender mix for your group.

What are optional excursions?

We have included a great deal of excursions in all our trips, but we cannot and would not want to include everything. Personal choice is important and our clients like the option of being included/or not on certain “Optionals,” i.e., Paris Nightclub show, Gondola ride in Venice, Rafting in Austria. From experience, we know which optionals have proven most popular with our clients and only these will be offered to you. These optionals do cost extra and a full list relating to your trip can be found with your final documents (or under the optionals heading of your tour online) to assist with trip budgeting. These optionals can be purchased through your tour manager when you’re on the trip. Payment for these is cash only; no credit cards will be accepted for payment on optionals (NB Credit cards are accepted on Australia and New Zealand tours).

Where can we find details on optionals?

Optionals are listed on our web site within each tour’s information.

What is the cruise ship like on the Louis Hellenic Cruises?

The ships used are smaller than your average US cruise line but offer a re relaxed and casual cruising experience. You still have the same great amenities such as casinos, clothing and novelty stores, pools, and nightly entertainment. Contiki offers standard inside cabins with the opportunity to upgrade while on board with cruise personnel. Please note: Your cruise ship will not be exclusive to Contiki and therefore you will have the opportunity to mix with a wide range of people. There are optional formal nights on board as well.

Are the tour departures guaranteed?

We guarantee that we will not reschedule any European tours within 50 days of departure through peak season (May 1st to October 15th) unless circumstances occur that are beyond our control. (Note: the departure guarantee does not apply to America, Australia or New Zealand tours which are normally guaranteed with minimum of 6 weeks).

In Europe we have designated a large number of tours which we guarantee will operate on the scheduled date, unless circumstances occur beyond our control. Look for the Guaranteed Departure symbol (Guaranteed Departure) against individual departure dates on the itinerary of your choice.

What happens to my deposits or money when my tour is advised non-operative?

In most instances, if not all, Contiki will provide a minimum of 6 weeks notice to give you ample time to consider our alternative offer in tour departure date, or tours that are fairly similar in duration or itinerary. In the event, alternative offers are not acceptable, Contiki will refund all the deposits or money paid in advance for your tour.

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BEFORE YOU GO FAQ

Do I need any vaccinations?

Please consult your travel agent or doctor to find out which vaccinations are required. If you suffer from any form of illness, be sure to have an adequate supply of medicines before departing on your trip. You must advise us through your travel agent of any important medical condition you may have, before departure.

Do I need a passport and travel visas?

Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included in your trip. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your trip. Consult your travel agent or a visa service well in advance to determine which visas you will require and how to obtain them. Important: visas can take up to six weeks to obtain and a fee is normally charged. Failure to obtain all necessary visas could cause you to miss part of your trip and will result in considerable expense and inconvenience. It is better to apply for ALL visas through your travel agent or visa service before you leave home.

When will I receive my travel documents from Contiki?

Provided final payment is received no less than 45 days prior to departure you will receive your travellers documents: vouchers, airline tickets (if purchased through Contiki), a day to day itinerary, an optional excursion list, a travellers information booklet and document wallet delivered to you (via express post) three weeks prior to departure.

How much luggage can I bring?

For our Europe Budget/Concept and Superior/Timeout trips, North America trips and South Pacific trips, luggage is restricted to one reasonable sized, non-expanding suitcase size up to 29” x 20” x 10” (73cm x 50cm x25cm) and the maximum weight of 20 kilos (44lbs.) plus one small hand/day bag that can go on the coach with you. No metal frame backpacks please, their bulky shape makes coach packing difficult and they are likely to damage other luggage.

Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept larger suitcases on tour. However on Budget/Concept Scandinavian trips, the maximum suitcase size is 28” x 18” x 9” (70cm x 45cm x 23cm) with a maximum weight of 20 kilos (44lbs.). On South Pacific trips which include the Flotilla Sailing and/or 4-wheel drive trips, a small bag suitable for the extremely limited luggage space is required. Your regular luggage will be stored at this time. On European ski packages and New Zealand trips with a ski option you may bring one pair of skis and ski boots. Note: Baggage is carried at the owner’s own risk and baggage insurance is strongly recommended.

Note: Baggage is carried at the owner’s own risk and baggage insurance is strongly recommended.

How much money should I bring?

Travelers’ checks in small denominations (in a main currency) are the safest way to carry your personal spending money. For example: In Europe, carry travelers checks in US$, British Pounds, or Euros. In Australia or New Zealand, carry Euro, US$, British Pounds, DM, NZ$ or A$. In America, carry US$ travelers checks. You can also get cash at local ATMs along the way if needed. Remember that you’ll need to allow enough to cover lunches, some dinners, shopping, entrance fees to some attractions, optional excursions and activities, souvenirs, drinks and evening entertainment/nightclubs. A full list of optional excursions and approximate costs will be sent to you with your travel documents.

Do I need travel insurance and if so, what should it cover?

All clients should have an insurance policy which covers cancellation curtailment, loss of or damage to baggage, loss of money (cash), traveler’s cheques, or personal belongings and medical insurance. Insurance can be purchased through Contiki directly or through your travel agent.

Travel insurance is offered via Contiki’s partner, The Berkely Group for departures April 1, 2004 and onwards. If you have specific questions (e.g. coverage) regarding the travel insurance plan, please call The Berkely Group at 1-866-580-4871 or visit their web site for more information. Prices shown are in US$.

When do the tours depart?

What does ‘depart USA’ mean and why don’t I see it on other tours?

For Europe trips Day 1 of the itinerary is the scheduled depart USA date, Day 2 is your first included hotel night, and Day 3 the coach departs from starting city on tour. For USA, Australia and New Zealand tours Day 1 is the day the coach actually departs from the starting city of the tour.

During your tour

Is smoking allowed on the trip?

Must I know the native languages of the countries I am visiting?

What if I’m traveling alone? Is there an extra charge?

How can my family contact me while I am traveling?

Does Contiki offer transfers?

How many people will be on the trip with me?

How strictly enforced is the age restriction of 18 to 35?

What other nationalities will be on the trip with me?

What are the tour managers and drivers like?

Will the tour director speak English?

Do you have a frequent traveler program?

Could I re-charge my mobile and digital camera whilst on tour?

How much free time will I have?

Is smoking allowed on the trip?

All Contiki motor coaches, mini-coaches, and 4-wheel drive vehicles are smoke-free. For those dedicated puffers, we stop every couple of hours so you can light up during our stops.

Must I know the native languages of the countries I am visiting?

No worries. That is one of the benefits of traveling with Contiki. You’ll be traveling with a tour manager who knows how to get around the countries you will be visiting. However, if you have some time, it never hurts to know a few courteous, friendly words (e.g., hello, please, thank you, etc.) of the native languages of the countries you will be visiting. It does make traveling more fun and you will find that most people from these countries will appreciate the effort and will be more receptive to your visit. Please note, all tour managers and tour drivers speak english.

What if I’m traveling alone? Is there an extra charge?

If you’re planning on traveling alone, (and nearly half of our clients do) and don’t want to pay for a single room, we’ll set you up with a roommate—same sex, of course! However, if you really want your very own room, and one is available, it will be offered for an additional sur charge, depending on which tour you are booking.

How can my family contact me while I am traveling?

You will receive all hotel contact details with your travel documentation sent three weeks prior to departure.

Does Contiki offer transfers?

We offer transfers in certain cities for an additional fee.

How many people will be on the trip with me?

That depends on where you are going. For most of the trips, we operate luxury motorcoaches and therefore carry between 25-50 people per trip. On some trips such as Hawaii, Alaska and Outback of Australia we use smaller vehicles, mini coaches, or 4-wheel drive all terrain vehicles, which carry 8-20 people.

How strictly enforced is the age restriction of 18 to 35?

Contiki will carry passengers of 17 years if accompanied by a guardian of over 18 years (one guardian required per person). We will also carry passengers of up to 37 years of age if accompanied by a passenger within the 18 to 35 age bracket). (however, 18 to 35s is strictly enforced for our USA & Canada products).

What other nationalities will be on the trip with me?

Contiki sells its travel packages in more than 35 countries around the world. It is therefore quite typical to expect between 6-15 different nationalities on any one trip, i.e., Australians, Americans, Canadians, Germans, English, Swiss, New Zealanders, Japanese, Dutch, South Africans, Italians, Danes, Brazilians, Mexicans, Austrians, Singaporeans, Swedes, Koreans, etc.

What are the tour managers and drivers like?

We have former policemen, actors, Peace Corps volunteers, sales managers, bankers, management consultants, bartenders, psychologists, surfers, chefs, and even nuclear physicists—you name it and we’ve got ‘em. The road crew are around the same age as our travelers and they’re really fun! These guys are with you on the entire trip and give you all the info you need on the trip: city tours, histories of countries, provinces and states, fun nightlife and daytime activities, and they keep you entertained on coach rides.

On the trips to Europe, many of the crew are from Great Britain, Europe, New Zealand, Australia and Canada. On the trips in the United States, Australia and New Zealand the crew are natives of that country. Contiki has both male and female tour managers and drivers who have very different experiences prior to working for Contiki.

Will the tour director speak English?

Yes, all of our Tour Managers and Tour Drivers speak English, some speak additional languages as well, but your tour will be conducted in English.

Do you have a frequent traveler program?

Yes! Upon booking your Contiki tour, you become eligible to join “Club Contiki”. Membership is free and only requires a simple registration process. As a Club Contiki member, you’ll have access to great promotions and additional benefits such as the ability to post photos and travel logs from your trip, search for other past Contiki travelers, and much more!

Could I re-charge my mobile and digital camera whilst on tour?

In each country you will travel, they have varying pins and power plugs to electricity source to recharge your mobile or digital camera batteries. We would suggest one to buy a Travellers’ Plug which is interchangeable and fit in for most countries.

At Concept and Camping tours, recharging can be arranged with our Resident Reps, this facility is often very limited. So we do suggest bringing sufficient batteries to last during your vacations.

How much free time will I have?

We design our trips so that you will have lots of free time to do your own thing. Not only do we schedule free time, but you can venture off on your own at any point during the trip.

Who are some of your past/present Custom Group clients?

Universities,high schools, religious youth groups,band and performance groups and clubs

Does the group leader travel for free?

Free spaces are subject to the group size. To reduce the cost per person you may want to divide the “free seat(s)” amongst the group applying the savings to each passenger’s cost. Contiki is flexible, the choice is yours.

What about air?

Contiki will be happy to include flights for your group. Or, we can quote on a “land only” package and let you organize your group’s flights.

Please note: Group air prices are different than those listed in our brochures and on our Web site.