EXCELLENTBased on 17 reviews
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Jay B6 April 2024As I reflect on my journey, memories flood back of the breathtaking displays of the northern lights, the pristine glacier water, the magical allure of the ice caves, and the exhilarating gusts of wind that threatened to whisk me away. And let's not forget the incredible culinary delights that Iceland had to offer. Arun's expertise in selecting our accommodations and destinations ensured that we experienced the full spectrum of Iceland's wonders. Arun is also incredibly patient with any photography-related questions. Over the course of our 10-day journey, I learned a plethora of skills, particularly in night photography and framing, which was incredibly rewarding as a beginner. There was a sense of family with the entire group and am fortunate to have met such lovely people!!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Madhura Mallya2 April 2024After returning from the Iceland trip, it feels as though I've returned from another world. Traveling with Arun was an incredible experience. He ensured we spent quality time at each destination during our 10-day journey, which seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. We encountered everything from extreme weather conditions like wind, sand, cold, and snow to delightful sunny days. Arun also introduced us to delicious Icelandic seafood at the best local restaurants. Alongside other photographers on the trip, Arun taught me valuable mobile photography techniques. Overall, my Iceland trip was immensely satisfying, made even better by Arun's guidance. I highly recommend!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Anindya Das2 April 2024A group trip ends succesfully when there are right kind of people and appropriate planning for the trip. Arun has been able to pull both in our Iceland March 2024 trip. He has used his experience in planning the trip as perfectly as it can be possible. We had an amazing time of 5 days of aurora, crazy sunsets, road trips, extra ordinary waterfalls, glaciers and what not. The stays were chosen very wisely and we had very comfortable stays in the trip. Overall we have enjoyed to the fullest, created lifelong memories and saw the extra ordinary beauty of Iceland.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Vasanth Ramesh Nayak2 April 2024I learnt about this trip via word of mouth and then going through the list of places being covered. The list gave me a sense of feeling that we are covering most of the places and at the same time not hurrying through the places just to cover them! Once we started the trip, we came to know each other and it felt like a closely knit group and we enjoyed the same. Learnt a bit about photography being a part of this . The places which were chosen to stay were also nice which were carefully chosen with major locations in vicinity as well as had all the amenities needed. It was a very enjoyable trip which was curated with love and care and will stay in my memory for a long time to come.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
pallavi kotha24 January 2024Highly recommend! Perfectly planned. Handpicked home-stays. Warm fun people. 10/10 Experience.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
VIVEK PONNAPPA21 January 2024Post pandemic I was unable to make time for travel due to my shift in priorities, but Tales and Trails ensured that I did not have to plan a lot to have a break. The experience was quite what i needed and Arun ensured that the group was engaged creating lasting memories and friendships. Looking forward to my next time with this firm for my next expedition.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Kalyan Sabareeshan19 January 2024Did my first trip with Takes & Trails in Dec 2023 to Spiti. It was an epic experience - met some amazing people who became like family and had some authentic local experiences along the way. If you're someone with the spirit of a wanderer who likes to embrace all kinds of experiences, then do sign up for a trip with T&T. You'll definitely have a memorable one! Here are some pictures from my trip...Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Suraj Krishnan19 January 2024Have been part of Spiti Winter and Summer expeditions. Had been a life changing experience to see the same terrain in different seasons
Experience an adventure like no other. Journey through East Java’s vibrant villages, trek to hidden waterfalls, and witness breathtaking volcanic vistas that promise to leave you in awe. East Java is a treasure trove of unforgettable moments and natural splendor, waiting to be explored.
April 17-22, 2025
Surabaya
Hotels
5 nights 6 days
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Not exceeding 12
Drive time: 6 – 7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Bondowoso
You do not want to miss out on our early wake-up call for embarking on a hike to witness the rare blue-flame eruptions which occur at night due to the combustion of sulfuric gasses that emerge from Mt. Ijen’s volcano vents. If we are lucky, we may witness a surreal, otherworldly glow against the darkness, aptly titled ‘Blue Fire.’
As the sun rises, marvel at the vibrant acid lake and its stunning colors.
Finish the spectacular hike by 9AM and drive on to Tumpak Sewu.
Rise-and-shine reminder: 1 AM
Mt. Ijen hike: 3 – 4 hours
Drive time: 2 hours to Mt. Ijen from Bondowoso
Accommodation: Hotel in Tumpak Sewu
Tumpak Sewu trek: 1 hour moderate-difficult trek
Coban Sriti Waterfall trek: 0.5 hours of moderate trek
Accommodation: Hotel in Tumpak Sewu
Waterfall hike: 0.5 hours of moderate hike
Drive time: 1.5 hours to Mt. Bromo
Accommodation: Hotel in MT.Bromo
Wake up early to catch a breathtaking sunrise from Penanjakan Hill and marvel at the stunning views of Mt Batur, Mt Semeru, and the surrounding landscapes. Explore the desert-like ‘Lautan Pasir’ around Mt. Bromo (literally, a ‘sea of sand’, as the local Tenggerese folk call it), and hike to the caldera (a large crater) for a close-up view of the spectacular active volcano.
Wrap up your East Java adventures with a shopping spree at Surabaya!
Rise-and-shine reminder: 1 AM
Mt. Bromo hike: 4 – 5 hours
Drive time: 2 hours to Surabaya
Accommodation: Hotel in Surabaya
We will call our adventure a wrap and hope to cross paths again! Our trip leader will drop you for your return flights in the morning to Surabaya airport on Day 06.
Arun will be your adventure leader in the Land of Active Volcanoes! A native of God’s own Country, Arun transitioned from an aerospace engineer to a full-time traveler and photographer, passionately showcasing his unique frames through elements of visual harmony. After refusing to settle for the mundane and quitting his corporate career, he biked through some of the most breathtaking trails in India and abroad, made innumerable friends along the way and captured well over 500,000 photographs. He has led more than 25 trips.
Arun adores it when people completely indulge in what they genuinely love. Tales and Trails was born from Arun’s profound love for photography and his desire to share the magic of his experiences with others.
Expedition Cost (Regular) | Details |
---|---|
Cost (Regular) | ₹75,000 per person (inclusive of 5% GST) |
Advance Payment | ₹15,000 per person required to secure your booking . |
Balance Payment | (A) ₹30,000/- per person due on or before 90 days of the trip; and |
(B) ₹30,000/- per person due on or before 60 days of the trip. |
Request an invite to join this expedition. Once you receive an invite from us confirming your request, the advance and balance payments in respect of your expedition must be made in the account (or by way of UPI transfer) as specified by us in our email.
As an Indian citizen, you will need:
Packing List: Once your spot in our adventure is confirmed, we will share a packing list with you.
Health and Safety: During our East Java adventure, we will embark on multiple hikes, averaging 3 to 4 hours. As we explore breathtaking landscapes, a good level of fitness will go a long way! You’ll need to carry your own luggage, though we’ll provide assistance where possible—just keep in mind that offloading isn’t available in most areas.
Need to Change Plans? You can transfer your spot to a friend if they’re excited to join the trip. Alternatively, you can keep your funds on hold with us for a future adventure.
Trip Cancellation or Postponement: If the trip is canceled or postponed at our end, you’ll receive a full refund. If the trip is cut short, you’ll receive a partial refund based on the days missed.
Ps. Refunds will be minus any cancellation charges for cars or accommodation or other such services and applicable taxes. Refunds will reach you within 7-10 business days.
You can read our Terms and Conditions for more details on cancellations, transfers and refunds.
We aim to make your adventure as smooth as possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance!
Request an invite to join this expedition. Once you receive an invite from us confirming your request, the advance and balance payments in respect of your expedition must be made in the account (or by way of UPI transfer) as specified by us in our email.
Travel Documents for Iceland: As an Indian citizen, you will need:
Note: Always verify current requirements, as policies may change.
Packing List: Once your spot in our adventure is confirmed, we will share a packing list with you.
Health and Safety: During our Iceland adventure we will explore some of the breathtaking landscapes on foot and a good level of fitness will go a long way! You’ll also need to carry your own luggage. Just keep in mind that offloading isn’t an option in Iceland. Pack wisely!
Need to Change Plans? You can transfer your spot to a friend if they’re excited to join the trip. Alternatively, you can keep your funds on hold with us for a future adventure.
Trip Cancellation or Postponement: If the trip is canceled or postponed at our end, you’ll receive a full refund. If the trip is cut short, you’ll receive a partial refund based on the days missed.
Ps. Refunds will be minus any cancellation charges for cars or accommodation or other such services and applicable taxes. Refunds will reach you within 7-10 business days.
You can read our Terms and Conditions for more details on cancellations, transfers and refunds.
We aim to make your adventure as smooth as possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance!
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