Your questions, answered

How big are the groups?

Groups are capped at 12 travellers — and most run smaller. That keeps us off the big-bus circuit and makes room for flexible stops, personal recommendations, and genuine one-on-one time. You're a guest, not a number on a clipboard.

Who leads the tour?

Every tour is led by Gwyneth Talley — an anthropologist, Arabic speaker, and 15-year North Africa resident. From the VIP airport welcome onward, she's your guide, translator, and travel companion for the whole trip. Arabic fluency means most friction is smoothed over before you ever notice it.

What's the pace like — is it rushed?

No. Mass-market tours sprint from site to site; we build in space for things to breathe — a slower morning at the temples, extra time in the markets, real conversations with locals. Days flex around what the group is actually enjoying, so nothing feels like a checklist.

How do we get around?

Private, air-conditioned vans with vetted drivers — no crowded coaches. Long transfers become part of the experience, with context and storytelling along the way rather than dead time.

Do I need to be an experienced traveller?

Not at all. Whether it's your first big adventure or your fiftieth, the trip is designed to bridge the gap between "tourist" and "guest." First-timers feel looked-after; seasoned explorers still discover things they'd have missed on their own.

Inclusions vary by trip. Use the overview below as a guide, then check the itinerary and inclusions for your chosen departure. Ask us about anything you want to confirm before paying your deposit.

Is it safe — especially for women?

Yes. You travel inside carefully managed environments with someone who knows the language and the culture. Arabic fluency immediately dials down vendor pressure and signals respect, and the safety of small-group travel itself does a lot of the work — you're surrounded by people who handle problems before they escalate.

What about vendors, scams, and bargaining?

Before any major site, you're briefed on what to expect — vendor behaviour, fair bargaining ranges, and how to disengage politely. We take you only to vetted vendors who stand behind their products, so you never have to wonder whether something is authentic or fairly priced.

What about food, water, and getting sick?

Bottled water is enforced throughout, and facilities at major sites and hotels are overwhelmingly Western-standard. Your tour leader is CPR and first-aid certified, pharmacies are easy to reach, and comprehensive travel insurance is required of every guest — so there's always a safety net.

How do you handle the heat and bathroom breaks?

Sun, shade, and hydration are managed actively, and bathroom access is planned proactively into every day's itinerary — one of the most underrated parts of a well-run tour. Bathroom tips are handled for you so you're never caught unprepared.

Do I have to worry about tipping?

Almost never. Porterage, housekeeping, boat crew, and drivers are all taken care of. The only tipping you personally think about is for your guide and tour leader — everything else is built in.

How does booking work?

Start at Book a Trip and choose the experience that interests you. Read its description and sample itinerary, choose a published departure, and select the number of travelers. The deposit button opens the guest-details form, followed by the cart and checkout. Review the terms and required travel-insurance information before paying. We send the remaining trip balance separately. For private trips or help choosing, contact Gwyneth.

What secures my place?

A $1,000 deposit per traveler reserves your place and is credited toward your trip price. The website takes the deposit only; your remaining balance and any agreed supplements are invoiced separately. Published trip prices are per person, generally based on double occupancy. Private trips are quoted individually. See our Terms & Conditions for payment deadlines and cancellation details.