Not necessarily! Our hiking tours cater to a range of experience levels, but this is active travel, so a solid fitness base is important. We offer trips rated from Leisurely to Advanced, so there's something for everyone. If you're new to hiking, we recommend starting with a Leisurely or Moderate tour, which typically involve shorter distances and gentler terrain.

If you do decide to book a Hiking tour, we encourage you to get outside to walk and hike as much as you can prior to your trip. This preparation will help you feel more confident and ready for your adventure.

EF Adventures doesn’t provide hiking equipment on tour, so it’s important for you to come prepared with everything you may need. Here are some essentials we recommend:

• Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots or trail runners
• Moisture-wicking socks
• Layered clothing (base layer, insulating layer, waterproof outer layer)
• Day pack for carrying water, snacks, and personal items
• Refillable water bottle
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Trekking poles (totally optional, but some people find them helpful for balance and reducing strain)
• Rain gear

We'll provide a more detailed packing list specific to your tour after booking.

During hikes, you'll be responsible for carrying your day pack with essentials, but you will never be expected to carry your main luggage with you. Your luggage will either be at the hotel or safely secured on your private bus while you’re hiking.

Safety is our top priority, and we take comprehensive measures to ensure your well-being throughout the tour. Our carefully vetted and experienced Tour Directors and local guides are trained in safety protocols and carry comprehensive first-aid kits. Before each hike, you'll receive detailed safety briefings, and we maintain regular check-ins and communication systems in remote areas. We closely monitor weather conditions and make itinerary adjustments if necessary. Additionally, we have partnerships with local emergency services for added security.

While not mandatory, we strongly recommend travel insurance that includes coverage for adventure activities. Our Trip Protection plans cover a wide range of scenarios, including emergency medical expenses and evacuation. Given the nature of hiking tours, having comprehensive insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection.

Your hiking tour will be led by an experienced Tour Director who is well-versed in the region's terrain, culture, and history. On some hikes, you'll also be accompanied by local hiking guides who bring additional expertise about the specific trails and natural environment.

Our trips blend active adventure with cultural immersion. When you're not hiking, you'll be exploring nearby towns and cities, tasting local wines, and savoring regional cuisine. You might visit historic sites, participate in cooking classes, or enjoy scenic drives through stunning landscapes. Many of our hotels offer amenities like spas, pools, and beautiful grounds for relaxation after a day of hiking. Each tour is crafted to provide a well-rounded experience.

No, you won't have to share a room unless you're traveling with a companion. Our standard pricing is based on double occupancy, so if you are traveling solo, you will pay a room supplement fee for a private room. We welcome solo travelers on our tours, and you'll likely meet many other solo adventurers. At this time, we don't offer roommate matching services.

We carefully select accommodations that balance comfort, local charm, sustainability, and convenient locations. Depending on the destination, you might stay in mountain lodges, family-run inns, or upscale hotels. All rooms have private bathrooms, and many offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. In more remote areas, accommodations might be simpler but always clean and comfortable. Many properties have amenities like restaurants, bars, and wellness facilities to help you unwind after a day of hiking.