FAQs: Asked enough to write down

Bespoke itineraries are private, non-group journeys made by request and created entirely by 2North, from start to finish. Maybe you have a specific place, time, and theme in mind. Maybe you just have a free month next year and want to explore options. We have a chat, decide on a course, and if we think 2North is best suited to realize your vision, we’re in it all the way.

Travel advising is what we offer when we believe 2North isn’t the best place to create your perfect experience. We don’t know every corner of the world, but we have great connections in the places less familiar to us. We’ll introduce you to the right people—vetted, trustworthy, and capable—and our involvement after that is up for discussion.

We can design and operate bespoke itineraries all over the world. We are familiar with many regions of the world, but not equally for every kind of trip. It’s not just about location, but the kind of experience you’re looking for. We may feel well suited to offer a certain type of experience in southern India (for example), but not a different experience, even with nearly identical itineraries. Rest assured, if we don’t feel we can achieve your vision, we can connect you with the folks who can.

As much or as little as you wish. Some folks have a clear picture in mind, rich with details. Others have a beautifully blank canvas. Some wish to give us their end goal, then walk away and let us cook. Others want to choose every ingredient and work together in the kitchen. We’re open to all of it.

Generally, the earlier the better. Not only does that provide more flexibility in terms of availability at accommodations and elsewhere, but we at 2North have to plan our time carefully, as well. We won’t take on more trips than we can reliably handle. First come, first served.

We’re not able to quote general rates because every itinerary is unique, as is the way they’re created. Our rate depends on a number of factors, from hours spent to itinerary complexity to specific on-trip requests.

Once you’ve decided to join a group trip, you can register for the trip via links on the brochure or the trip web page. Following your registration, we will follow up with an invoice for a deposit (usually $900–$1,200 per person), payable in a number of ways. Once your deposit payment has been received, your spot is secured.

Deposits and other payments can be made via ACH transfer, personal check, and credit card. Please note that credit card payments will incur a 3.4% transaction fee.

Yes. Single supplement rates—along with the main trip rates—are listed in the detailed trip brochure that can be downloaded from every trip webpage.

Cancellation policies vary by trip and can be found in the Terms & Conditions section of the detailed brochure for a given trip.

In general, cancellation penalties increase as the departure date approaches. Travelers are also responsible for cancellation fees charged by third-party suppliers, including airlines and hotels. Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing. These policies apply in all cases and are not subject to exceptions.

Once a deposit is paid, a Pre-Trip PDF Packet will be sent to you with information on a number of relevant topics to prepare for your journey, including: climate, currency, exit/entry requirements, packing and gear recommendations, flight guidance, etc. It will give you a solid base upon which to begin preparing.

In addition to the Pre-Trip PDF Packet, we can facilitate obtaining travel insurance through our partner, WanderWell, and provide access to a trusted air concierge service with Trips Away Travel.

Approximately 4–6 weeks prior to the start date, we’ll host a live pre-trip briefing on Zoom, covering every aspect of the itinerary and associated logistics, as well as answering any questions.

Most of our journeys do not require travel insurance; however, we strongly recommend that all travelers have some measure of protection against trip interruption, trip delay, or medical issues.

As noted above, we have a trusted travel insurance partner in WanderWell with robust, benefit-filled plans.

You can reach out to us directly at any time via phone (800.780.6469) or email (info@2northexpeditions.com), both of which can be accessed by the entire team at 2North.

Never more than 12, and often a bit less. We keep our groups small, flexible, and friendly.

That varies by trip. All inclusions are listed on the trip webpage as well as in the detailed brochure. In general, all activities, entrances, meals, gratuities, and in-trip transportation (including internal flights) are included.

Maggie and/or Temu will accompany every 2North departure. Along with local guides/naturalists, we’ll act as your trip leaders.

That largely depends on the destination. That said, it’s hard to find a place without wifi these days. Yes, most of the time we’re connected, albeit slowly, even in remote destinations.

That varies by trip. We use a 5-step scale to generalize the requirements on any trip:

• Level 1: Very Leisurely. No significant distances or elevation gain. Mostly seated activities or easy, flat walking—typically 1–2 hours at a time, with frequent opportunities to rest.
• Level 2: Leisurely. Light activity on mostly even ground. Expect some walking or standing, usually up to 2–3 hours at a time. Minor slopes or stairs may be included.
• Level 3: Moderate. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Expect several hours of walking, possibly on uneven ground or hills, with some sustained elevation gain. Rest breaks are available, but you should be comfortable staying active for much of the day.
• Level 4: Challenging. Good physical fitness is recommended. Expect longer periods of activity, steeper or sustained climbs, and uneven terrain. Hiking (if applicable) may last 3–4 hours, and the day may involve substantial walking with limited opportunities to rest.
• Level 5: Strenuous. Above-average physical fitness is required. Expect demanding hikes of 3–4 hours or more, significant elevation gain, and/or rough, uneven terrain. Participants should be comfortable with prolonged exertion and able to maintain a steady pace.