Every thing you need to know before your adventure

Planning an adventure with Pāda Pāda Adventures? Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about our trips, safety measures, and what to expect when traveling with us. These FAQs cover general topics like fitness levels, group sizes, and responsible travel, but each trip also has its own dedicated FAQ section with specific details about that itinerary.

For detailed information related to specific adventures, please visit the individual Trip Pages where you’ll find FAQs tailored to each itinerary.

If your question isn’t addressed here or on our trip pages, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly. We’re here to assist you.

Booking & Payment

  • Booking your adventure with Pāda Pāda Adventures is simple:

    Choose Your Trip – Browse our trip pages and select the adventure that suits your interests and fitness level. Each trip page includes detailed itineraries, kit lists, and FAQs to help you decide.

    Secure Your Spot – Click the “Book Now” button on your chosen trip page and follow the booking process. A 20% deposit is required to confirm your place. You can also book and pay your deposit via bank transfer by contacting us directly.

    Receive Your Pre-Trip Information – Once booked, you’ll get a confirmation email with essential details, including a packing list and medical forms that need to be completed before departure.

    Final Payment & Deadlines – The remaining balance is due at least 90 days before departure. If booking within 90 days of the trip start date, full payment is required within 48 hours to secure your spot. Failure to meet the final payment deadline may result in the loss of both your place on the trip and your deposit.

    Before booking, it’s important that you have read and understood our Terms and Conditions. These outline key policies, including cancellations, refunds, and trip expectations.

    Still have questions? Get in touch and we’ll be happy to guide you through the booking process.

  • your place on a Pāda Pāda Adventures trip, a 20% deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit is non-refundable and confirms your spot on the expedition.

    The remaining balance is due at least 90 days before departure. If you book within 90 days of the trip start date, full payment is required within 48 hours to secure your place.

    Before booking, please ensure you have read and understood our Terms and Conditions, which outline our payment policies, cancellations, and refunds.

    Still have questions? Get in touch and we’ll be happy to assist.

  • If you need to cancel your trip, the following cancellation terms apply:

    More than 90 days before departure – Loss of deposit. However, we will happily transfer your deposit to another trip departing within 12 months of your cancellation date.

    Between 89 and 60 days before departure – 40% of the trip cost is non-refundable.

    Between 59 and 30 days before departure – 75% of the trip cost is non-refundable.

    Less than 30 days before departure – 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable.

    The initial deposit is always non-refundable, but you have the flexibility to transfer it to another trip within the next 12 months if you cancel at least 90 days before departure.

    We strongly recommend securing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances.

    For full details, please read our Terms and Conditions.

    Still have questions? Get in touch, and we’ll be happy to assist.

  • Yes! We offer private and custom trips for individuals, groups, families, and corporate teams. Whether you want to tailor an existing itinerary to your needs or design a completely bespoke adventure, we can work with you to create the perfect trip.

    Private trips allow for flexibility in dates, group size, and itinerary, with the same expert leadership and attention to detail as our scheduled departures.

    For more details, visit our Private Trips page.

    Still have questions? Get in touch, and we’ll help craft a trip that suits your goals, experience level, and preferred destination.

  • Each Pāda Pāda Adventures trip is unique, so we recommend checking the trip page and itinerary for specific details on what’s included. However, as a general guide, your trip cost covers:

    Expert Leadership – Led by an International Mountain Leader (IML) and knowledgeable in-country guides.

    Accommodation – Whether it’s mountain huts, guesthouses, or expedition camps, all lodging during the trip is included.

    Meals – Most meals are covered, though on some rest days, one meal (typically lunch) may be at your own expense.

    In-Country Transport – All internal travel and transfers as specified in the itinerary.

    Group Equipment – Any technical or shared gear required for the trip, such as tents and cooking equipment.

    Safety & Support – Comprehensive risk management, first aid provision, and emergency response planning.

    What’s Not Included? Flights, personal equipment, travel insurance, tips, alcohol, and any meals or activities not listed in the itinerary.

    For full details, check the trip page or contact us with any questions.

  • Yes! You can reserve an entire trip for your group, whether it’s for friends, family, or a special occasion. If you’re considering this, we recommend getting in touch with us first so we can discuss the best options for your group’s needs, including trip dates, group size, and any customisations you might want.

    We also offer private trips, allowing you to tailor an itinerary specifically for your group.

    Learn more about our Private Trips or contact us to discuss your plans.

  • Yes, absolutely! Many of our travelers join solo, and our trips are a great way to meet like-minded people. One of the best things about group travel is that you can come alone but never feel alone—you’ll be sharing the adventure with others who have the same passion for exploring. Groups often bond quickly, and many of our travelers stay in touch long after the trip ends.

    Have questions? Get in touch, and we’ll be happy to help!

  • For our standard group trips, the minimum age is 18. However, if you’re 16 or 17, you can join a trip when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

    There’s no upper age limit, but all participants should have the fitness and ability required for their chosen adventure.

    If you’re looking to travel with younger participants, we can arrange private trips tailored to your group’s needs. Get in touch to discuss your options.

  • Our Terms and Conditions outline everything you need to know about booking, payments, cancellations, safety, and trip expectations.

    Please take the time to read them carefully before booking.

    You can find our full Terms and Conditions here.

Fitness & Experience

  • Our trips vary in difficulty, so there’s something for all fitness levels—from moderate treks to high-altitude expeditions. If you’re comfortable hiking for several hours a day and carrying a light pack, you’re likely fit enough for many of our trips.

    For more demanding itineraries—such as treks at altitude above 4,000m, extended multi-day expeditions, or routes with significant elevation gain—we recommend a good level of cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and general hiking experience.

    Check our Trip Grades Guide to find the best adventure for your fitness level.

    Ensuring you have the right level of fitness for your chosen trip is important—not just for your own enjoyment, but also for the safety and well-being of the group. Being adequately prepared will allow you to fully participate in every aspect of the adventure without unnecessary strain.

    If you’re unsure whether a trip is the right fit for you, feel free to get in touch. We’re happy to offer guidance and help you choose an itinerary that matches your fitness level and experience.

  • A good level of fitness and some experience can definitely help, but we aim to make our adventures as accessible as possible. Some trips require more technical skills or endurance than others, which is why we’ve assigned difficulty grades to each itinerary. These grades help you determine whether a trip matches your fitness level and experience.

    Check our Trip Grades Guide to find the right adventure for you.

    No matter the trip, our expert guides are there to support you every step of the way. They’ll ensure you’re safe, confident, and fully prepared, teaching you any necessary skills along the journey—whether it’s using trekking poles efficiently, navigating tricky terrain, or handling technical elements like abseiling where required.

    For trips that include the extended uses of a technical skill, like biking for example, it’s important to arrive comfortable riding a bike on uneven terrain, but you don’t need to be hitting jumps at the local bike park or tackling black-grade singletrack trails. Our guides will help you build confidence and refine your technique as needed.

    If you’re unsure about your ability to join a trip, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to discuss your experience and recommend the best option for you.

  • Your preparation depends on the difficulty of your chosen trip, but we generally recommend:

    Cardio training: Hiking, running, cycling, or swimming 3–4 times per week.

    Hill training: If your trip includes steep ascents & descents, train with a weighted pack.

    Endurance work: Longer hikes on weekends to mimic the conditions of your trek.

    Strength training: Focus on leg strength, core stability, and balance.

    Little wins: it can be hard to find time to train with a busy life so don’t forget about the little wins that will all add up. Where possible try walk up the stairs rather than using the lift, park at the far side of the car and get of the bus a stop early.

Packing & Equipment

  • Each of our adventures has a carefully planned kit list, tailored to the climate, terrain, and activities involved. Some trips require specialist gear, like crampons for winter trekking, while others can be completed in standard outdoor clothing. You’ll find a detailed packing list on each trip page, but here are the key essentials:

    Footwear: Comfortable, well-fitting hiking boots. Avoid boots that are too worn out and might not survive the full length of the trip or brand new ones you haven’t tested, §breaking them in beforehand is essential.

    Backpack: A 30–40L daypack that fits well and is comfortable to carry for long periods.

    Clothing: Layered clothing, including a waterproof jacket, warm mid-layers, and base layers, to adapt to changing conditions.

    Headwear: A warm hat, a sun hat, or both, depending on the trip.

    Trekking Poles: Optional but highly recommended for steep or uneven terrain.

    Check the specific kit list on your trip page to ensure you have everything you need.

    If you have any questions about gear or need advice on what to bring, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to help you prepare for your adventure.

  • All group equipment, such as tents and cooking gear, is included in the trip cost, but personal gear, like sleeping bags, boots, and clothing is not.

    We don’t rent equipment directly, but there are plenty of gear rental companies that can provide what you need. Renting can be a great way to save money, especially if you’re unlikely to use specialist gear again or only need it occasionally.

    If you plan to rent, we recommend sorting it out well in advance so you have time to try the gear, make sure it fits properly, and ensure you’re comfortable using it before your trip.

    If you need advice on what to rent or where to look, feel free to contact us.

Accommodation & Food

  • Accommodation varies depending on the trip and destination, ranging from tents on remote expeditions to alpine chalets, homestays, guesthouses, and hotels.

    Wherever you stay, we always choose the best available options to ensure comfort, safety, and an authentic experience suited to the environment.

  • Yes, we do our best to accommodate all dietary requirements when they are communicated in advance. Please make sure to inform us of any dietary needs when completing your medical declaration so we can plan accordingly.

    In most cases, we can provide suitable alternatives, but some destinations may have limited availability of certain foods. For example, gluten-free pasta might not always be an option, but we will ensure you have a suitable alternative, such as rice or potatoes. If needed, you are also welcome to bring a few of your own supplies.

    If you have any specific concerns or questions, please contact us before your trip and we’ll be happy to help.

  • Yes, we ensure that safe drinking water is available throughout your trip. We always aim to use the most sustainable methods, treating and filtering water wherever possible before resorting to bottled water. Depending on the destination, this may include boiled, filtered, or purified sources to minimize waste and environmental impact.

    While a personal filter or purification tablets are not essential, you’re welcome to bring them if you prefer extra reassurance or convenience. We recommend Grayl bottles as a great option for personal water purification, but any reliable filtration system will work.

    If you have any questions about water availability on a specific trip, feel free to contact us.

  • Food is an essential part of any adventure—not just as fuel for the journey, but as a way to experience local culture and connect with the places we travel through. We always strive to provide the best available food, sourcing local ingredients whenever possible to reduce our environmental impact and support the communities we visit.

    Meals will vary depending on the destination, but we aim to offer a balance of local cuisine and familiar Western favourites to keep everyone well-fed and energized throughout the trip.

    If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know in advance when completing your medical declaration, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

Travel Logistics

  • Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for all our adventures. Your policy must include emergency medical coverage, and evacuation, including helicopter rescue.

    It is important that you ensure your insurance covers the activities you will be participating in on your trip.

    If you need any help or advice with your insurance then please contact us.

  • The best way to reach the starting point of your adventure depends on the trip location. Detailed travel information, including meeting points, recommended airports, and transfer options, can be found on each trip page.

    If you need advice on flights, transfers, or the best arrival options, feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to help.

  • Our trips attract like-minded adventurers from all walks of life, with a shared passion for exploring spectacular landscapes and experiencing new cultures. Whether you’re joining solo, with friends, or as part of a group, you’ll be traveling alongside others who are looking for a well-organized, expertly guided adventure.

    Group sizes vary depending on the trip, but we keep them small and personal, ensuring a better experience and lower impact on the environment. Expect a mix of solo travelers, couples, and friends, all ready to embrace the journey.

    If you have any questions, get in touch, and we’ll be happy to help.

  • We believe there’s no such thing as bad weather—just the wrong gear! Our trips run in a variety of conditions, and a bit of rain or cloud won’t stop us from heading out. Having the right clothing and equipment is key to staying comfortable and prepared.

    However, if the weather poses a safety risk, your guide will make the necessary adjustments. This could mean modifying the route, adjusting the itinerary, or, in extreme cases, postponing or canceling activities to ensure both your safety and the overall enjoyment of the trip.

    Your guide will always make the best decision based on conditions, keeping both adventure and safety in mind. If you have any concerns about weather conditions for your trip, feel free to contact us.

  • Our group sizes typically range from 8 to 14 people, depending on the trip. We keep our groups small and personal to ensure a better experience, smoother logistics, and a lower impact on the environment.

    Smaller groups allow for more flexibility, a stronger group dynamic, and better access to remote areas where large tour groups wouldn’t be practical.

    If you’re looking for an even more personal experience or smaller group, our Private Trips could be a great option.

    For exact group size details on a specific trip, check the trip page or contact us if you have any questions.

  • While tipping may not be customary in everyone’s home culture, it is deeply appreciated and plays an important role in supporting our guides and local teams. Many of our guides rely on seasonal work, and tips contribute directly to their livelihoods.

    Our guides are dedicated professionals who often go above and beyond to make your trip a success. While tipping is never mandatory, it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation for their expertise, hard work, and commitment to your adventure.

    If you’re unsure how much to tip, your guide on the trip can advise you, or you can contact us before departure for guidance on local tipping customs.

Safety & Responsible Travel

  • At Pāda Pāda Adventures, safety is our top priority. Every trip is expertly planned and led by highly qualified guides, including an International Mountain Leader (IML) on every expedition to ensure the highest level of safety, risk management, and group leadership.

    Here’s how we keep you safe:

    Experienced & Certified Guides – Our leaders are trained in wilderness first aid, risk assessment, and emergency response, ensuring professional decision-making in challenging environments.

    Thorough Pre-Trip Planning – Each route is carefully researched, with detailed risk assessments and contingency plans in place.

    Emergency Communication – When appropriate and in compliance with local laws, we carry a combination of satellite phones, radios, and satellite messengers (such as Garmin inReach) in remote areas to ensure rapid communication and emergency response when needed.

    Acclimatisation & Altitude Awareness – On high-altitude treks, we follow gradual acclimatisation schedules to minimise the risk of altitude sickness.

    Small Group Sizes – Keeping groups small allows for better guide-to-client ratios and closer monitoring of each participant’s well-being.

    Close Local Partnerships – We work with trusted in-country teams who provide additional safety support and local expertise.

    Your guide’s role is to assess conditions in real-time and make adjustments as needed to keep the trip both safe and enjoyable.

    Still have questions? Contact us, and we’ll be happy to discuss any safety concerns.

  • All Pāda Pāda Adventures trips are led by highly experienced and fully qualified guides. Every expedition includes an International Mountain Leader (IML) to ensure the highest standards of safety, navigation, and group management.

    Our team also includes specialists in canyoning, mountain biking, and other adventure activities, each with the necessary technical qualifications and extensive field experience. All guides are trained in wilderness first aid, risk management, and emergency response, so you can focus on the adventure knowing you’re in expert hands.

    In addition to our expedition leaders, we work with in-country guides who bring essential local knowledge, cultural insight, and logistical expertise to every trip.

    Want to learn more? Check out our Meet the Guides page.

  • At Pāda Pāda Adventures, we believe that adventure travel should be sustainable, ethical, and have a positive impact on both the environment and the communities we visit. Here’s how we ensure responsible tourism across all our trips:

    Hiring & Supporting Local Guides – We work with local guides, porters, and businesses, ensuring fair wages, ethical working conditions, and direct economic benefits to local communities.

    Minimising Environmental Impact – We follow Leave No Trace principles, use sustainable water purification methods to reduce plastic waste, and encourage travelers to make responsible choices when packing and traveling.

    Small Group Travel – Keeping groups small helps to reduce our footprint, avoid overcrowding, and foster more meaningful cultural exchanges.

    Respecting Local Cultures – We promote cultural sensitivity by ensuring travelers understand and respect local customs, traditions, and ways of life, fostering genuine connections with the people we meet.

    Ethical Wildlife & Nature Practices – We do not support exploitative animal tourism, and our itineraries are designed to respect natural habitats and ecosystems.

    Giving Back – We seek opportunities to support conservation efforts and community projects, ensuring that tourism benefits the regions we explore.

    Sustainability is an ongoing effort, and we are always looking for ways to improve. Our goal is to create unforgettable adventures while ensuring we protect the landscapes, cultures, and people that make them so special.