Japanese Hot Springs

Kyushu's Hot Springs and Volcanoes

Tour Description: Guided

Located in the southern part of Japan, Kyushu is the third largest island and is known for being a hot spot of steaming springs. Our cycle through this mountainous and geothermic island will take us past volcanic calderas, steaming vents, feudal castles, green tea plantations, old growth forests and waterfalls.

We will partake in the Japanese tradition of bathing in hot springs. Onsens provide great opportunities to meet friendly locals and sooth muscles after some challenging rides.

In the quaint town of Kurokawa, arguably the most beautiful onsen town in Japan, we don yukata and stroll down the streets hopping from hot spring to hot spring. We next head to the land of water and stone bridges, with stunning views of Mt Kuju (1791m) and stopping to admire the feudal architecture of Taketa. Turquoise water rushes down the Manainotaki waterfalls as we cycle into Takachiho Gorge with it's stunning blue waters contrasting with the red and yellows of the trees in the autumn.

We cycle back to the rim of Mount Aso caldera, which has a circumference of around 120 km, before descending down to Kumamoto, offering a chance to glimpse into modern city life and feudal Japan at its landmark Kumamoto Castle.

This 7-day tour rides from the lushness of onsens to the steaming caldera of Mt. Aso to modern Kumamoto and offers up numerous myths and legends of Kyushu along the way.

Learn more about guided tours. 

Tour Description: Self-guided

Located in the southern part of Japan, Kyushu is the third largest island and is known for being a hot spot of steaming springs. Our cycle through this mountainous and geothermic island will take us past volcanic calderas, steaming vents, feudal castles, green tea plantations, old growth forests and waterfalls.

We will partake in the Japanese tradition of bathing in hot springs. Onsens provide great opportunities to meet friendly locals and sooth muscles after some challenging rides.

In the quaint town of Kurokawa, arguably the most beautiful onsen town in Japan, we don yukata and stroll down the streets hopping from hot spring to hot spring. We next head to the land of water and stone bridges, with stunning views of Mt Kuju (1791m) and stopping to admire the feudal architecture of Taketa. Turquoise water rushes down the Manainotaki waterfalls as we cycle into Takachiho Gorge with it's stunning blue waters contrasting with the red and yellows of the trees in the autumn.

We cycle back to the rim of Mount Aso caldera, which has a circumference of around 120 km, before descending down to Kumamoto, offering a chance to glimpse into modern city life and feudal Japan at its landmark Kumamoto Castle.

This 7-day tour rides from the lushness of onsens to the steaming caldera of Mt. Aso to modern Kumamoto and offers up numerous myths and legends of Kyushu along the way.

Learn more about guided tours. 

Highlights: Guided

• Japanese island of Kyushu
• Traditional Japanese hot springs, known as onsens
• Kurokawa, one of the most beautiful onsen towns in Japan
• Mt. Kuju
• Manainotaki waterfalls
• Takachiho Gorge
• Mount Aso
• Kumamoto and Kumamoto Castle

Highlights: Self-guided

• Japanese island of Kyushu
• Traditional Japanese hot springs, known as onsens
• Kurokawa, one of the most beautiful onsen towns in Japan
• Mt. Kuju
• Manainotaki waterfalls
• Takachiho Gorge
• Mount Aso
• Kumamoto and Kumamoto Castle

Daily Program: Guided

Day 1: Arrive in Kumamoto/Aso
Arrive Kumamoto/Aso airport from Tokyo, Osaka, or Seoul, or Kumamoto station from Tokyo and Osaka and transfer to Jigoku Onsen. Time to get the bikes fitted and test ridden. There will be a group meeting at 6 pm followed by our first true Japanese meal (Provided).
Overnight at Jigoku Onsen in Kumamoto. 

Day 2: Aso – Kurokawa (30 miles/48 km)
Our riding begins straight away from the roykan (Japanese inn) on the impressive plain of the Aso caldera. Legend is that the outer crater was once a lake, but one day the god of the mountain kicked open the only break (through which today the railroad passes) emptying the water and leaving the plain fit for cultivation. After climbing the caldera rim and some minor up and downs on scenic Yamanami Highway, it is downhill to Kurokawa Onsen. Kurokawa is a charming little town with two streets and a bunch of hot springs dotted around. We visit Yama Mizuki Onsen (hot springs), with its outdoor bath sitting on the edge of a fast moving creek, giving you the option to freeze yourself then jump back in the hot water. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. 
Overnight at Kurokawa Onsen in Kurokawa. 

Day 3: Kurokawa - Taketa (21 miles/34 km)
Scenic Hokutaki Roman Road crossing the Kuju Highlands leads us southeast to the old Bungo State, land of water and stone bridges. Underway, the views on Kyushu's highest mountain, Mt Kuju (1791m) are truly stunning. The Kuju Flower Park and Midori Highlands Guernsey Farm offer distraction from the hard work in the saddle. Then it is a downhill freewheel all the way to Taketa. Arriving in Taketa, we visit the ruin of Oka Castle, which was constructed by a local warrior to house Yoshitsune Minamoto, a hero in Kamakura Period. If it's the season, cherry blossoms bloom plentiful. Taketa has a fair amount of feudal architecture, buke yashiki, most notably Taketa Manse built in 1818.
Overnight at farm stay in Taketa. 

Day 4: Taketa – Takachiho (36 miles/58 km)
We spend today in the hilly Sobo Katamuki Quasi-National Park, taking a break at the Harajiri Waterfalls before climbing to Ohiragoe Tunnel at 950 m. After the tunnel it's a spectacular descent into Takachiho, ancient land of Japanese myths.

In autumn, the slopes colour magnificently red with maple leaves. It is said that the gods first set foot on earth at this spot after creating Japan by stirring the primeval ocean muck. On our way down we visit Amano-iwado Cave, said to be where sun goddess Amaterasu hid from her joker-brother Susanou, to be coaxed out by goddess Amano-uzume dancing hoochi-kooch parody of her own sacred dance which 'made assembled gods laugh till the high plain of heaven shook'. In the evening we can watch these ancient kagura folk dances performed at the Takachiho Shrine. We stay at Hosuehiro Ryokan. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided. 
Overnight in Takachiho. 

Day 5: Takachiho - Aso (46 miles/74 km)
Once more we climb up the rim of Mt Aso's caldera. Passing by Takamori, filling our bottles with fresh water from a well at Shirakawa Springs. Climbing the last metres, we earn a well deserved soak at Jigoku Onsen. Our onsen pass gets stamped as we go into the 3 different onsen areas of the complex. The rocky outdoor baths (separate gender), "Roteniwaburo", are quite nice. The water temperature is great, they're rarely crowded, and the view is spectacular. The Sparrow Bath, "Suzumenoyu" is mixed gender, and has very acidic water, so take off any jewelry before entering. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.
Overnight at Jigoku Onsen in Aso. 

Day 6: Aso - Kumamoto (32 miles/51 km)
We follow the Shirakawa river and the city of Kumamoto is nearing quickly. We stop to visit Kumamoto castle, which dates back to 1467, and is considered one of Japan's top 3 castles (三名城 Sanmeijō), together with Osaka and Nagoya. If we have time we'll ride on to Suizenji garden and visit the replica of Mount Fuji. Tonight we overnight at a traditional Japanese inn where the owner is a dye artist and you can make your own souvenir tenugui towel. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.
Overnight in Kumamoto.

Day 7: Kumamoto departure
Departure to airport or train station. Breakfast is provided.

**You can extend your visit to Kyushu with our 8-day Cycling Colourful Kyushu Island tour.

Daily Program: Self-guided

Dates: Guided

Mar 31; Nov 10, 2013.

Note: SpiceRoads tours are for adults age 18 and up.

Dates: Self-guided

Route Map: Guided

Route Map: Self-guided

Packages and Prices: Guided

Tour package (guided)
Per person, double occupancy $2600 Bike Rentals Hybrid touring bike $130

Packages and Prices: Self-guided

Included Services: Guided

6 nights accommodations in Japanese hostels and/or hotels
Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners as stated on itinerary
Air-conditioned support vehicle
Local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees to sites mentioned
Water, energy-restoring local fruit and drinks during rides

Extra expenses
We recommend that you tuck away a few extra dollars, perhaps US$30 a day for incidentals. Tipping is not customary in Japan. Guides have received and accepted tips on a voluntary basis.

The currency in Japan is the yen (¥) and is pronounced as ‘en’, with no ‘y’ sound. Though ATMs are everywhere in Japan, it is not always easy to use them as most only work with Japan-issued bank cards and credit cards. The exception is Japan’s post office ATMs, which accept cards that belong to the following international networks: Visa, Plus, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus American Express and Diners Club cards. In addition to postal ATMs, you will find a few international ATMs in big cities and at the major airports. International cards also work in Citibank Japan ATMs.

Included Services: Self-guided

Hotels: Guided

We have carefully chosen accommodation that is the best available for the location and offer a good mix, from home stays to luxurious lodges, on our tours. 

A single room may be available locally on payment of a supplement but, as some of the Japanese-style hostels are quite small, this cannot be guaranteed.

Hotels: Self-guided

We have carefully chosen accommodation that is the best available for the location and offer a good mix, from home stays to luxurious lodges, on our tours. 

A single room may be available locally on payment of a supplement but, as some of the Japanese-style hostels are quite small, this cannot be guaranteed.

Bike Rentals: Guided

Because some people can't imagine going on a trip without their own beloved bicycle, we do not provide them as part of this tour. However, you are able to hire bikes locally for the price listed in the price and packaging section.

The bikes are well-known makes of hybrid bicycles with lightweight alloy frames, light gears, 24- to 27-speed gearing, v-brakes and Shimano components. You're free to bring own pedals, (rail type) seat and handlebar extensions. If you bring your own bike, please make sure it is in good mechanical order.

Basic spares and tools are carried by the guide and on the support vehicle, though we cannot guarantee having spares for every conceivable problem. Carrying a basic tool kit, a spare tube and a pump while riding is recommended.

Wearing a helmet is strongly recommended on this biking adventures and if you choose not to wear one you will be asked to sign a liability waiver. Your guide is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree you must be responsible for your own safety while riding. It is therefore compulsory that you take out travel insurance that will cover you for a mountain biking tour.

Bike Rentals: Self-guided

Because some people can't imagine going on a trip without their own beloved bicycle, we do not provide them as part of this tour. However, you are able to hire bikes locally for the price listed in the price and packaging section.

The bikes are well-known makes of hybrid bicycles with lightweight alloy frames, light gears, 24- to 27-speed gearing, v-brakes and Shimano components. You're free to bring own pedals, (rail type) seat and handlebar extensions. If you bring your own bike, please make sure it is in good mechanical order.

Basic spares and tools are carried by the guide and on the support vehicle, though we cannot guarantee having spares for every conceivable problem. Carrying a basic tool kit, a spare tube and a pump while riding is recommended.

Wearing a helmet is strongly recommended on this biking adventures and if you choose not to wear one you will be asked to sign a liability waiver. Your guide is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree you must be responsible for your own safety while riding. It is therefore compulsory that you take out travel insurance that will cover you for a mountain biking tour.

Surface and Terrain: Guided

The cycling around Mt Aso is moderately challenging with a few climbs. We ride 164 miles/265 km in five cycling days on quiet roads with amazing views. The first few days riding are shorter, giving you ample time to warm up for the longer days towards the end of the trip, but averagely fit cyclists will have no problems.

This trip is for 99% along tarmac roads in good condition and there is no technical riding. The trip is fully supported; an air-conditioned bus follows us for the entire journey, so exhausted riders can skip the tougher sections if they wish.

This tour is rated moderate and is for cyclists in average to good physical condition. This trip is not too arduous, and so riders with less experience are more than welcome, although the fitter you are the more you will enjoy it.

Surface and Terrain: Self-guided

The cycling around Mt Aso is moderately challenging with a few climbs. We ride 164 miles/265 km in five cycling days on quiet roads with amazing views. The first few days riding are shorter, giving you ample time to warm up for the longer days towards the end of the trip, but averagely fit cyclists will have no problems.

This trip is for 99% along tarmac roads in good condition and there is no technical riding. The trip is fully supported; an air-conditioned bus follows us for the entire journey, so exhausted riders can skip the tougher sections if they wish.

This tour is rated moderate and is for cyclists in average to good physical condition. This trip is not too arduous, and so riders with less experience are more than welcome, although the fitter you are the more you will enjoy it.

How To Get There: Guided

Tour start

• Nearest airport: Tokyo 
• Nearest train station: Kumamoto (train available from Tokyo to Kumamoto)

Tour end

• Nearest airport: Tokyo
• Nearest train station: Kumamoto

International and domestic flights to and from the start and finish points are not included in the tour price. Please contact us for advice before arranging flights for the best arrival and departure times. 

How To Get There: Self-guided

Tour start

• Nearest airport: Tokyo 
• Nearest train station: Kumamoto (train available from Tokyo to Kumamoto)

Tour end

• Nearest airport: Tokyo
• Nearest train station: Kumamoto

International and domestic flights to and from the start and finish points are not included in the tour price. Please contact us for advice before arranging flights for the best arrival and departure times. 

Weather: Guided

Japan has a diverse climate. There are four seasons: from April to June is spring. The rainy season is from middle of June to the middle of July. July through end of September can be hot and humid temperatures in the big cities can go as high as 95 degrees Fahrenheit/35 degrees Celsius.

Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

Get weather information.

Weather: Self-guided

Japan has a diverse climate. There are four seasons: from April to June is spring. The rainy season is from middle of June to the middle of July. July through end of September can be hot and humid temperatures in the big cities can go as high as 95 degrees Fahrenheit/35 degrees Celsius.

Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

Get weather information.

Tour Company Background: SpiceRoads Cycle Tours: Guided

SpiceRoads endeavors to offer high-quality, educational, and adventure-filled itineraries that highlight and focus on the diversity of landscapes found in Asia and its people. As a specialized "niche" bicycle tour operator since 2000, we provide the most authentic, unique and exciting adventures in Asia.

The SpiceRoads family began back in the mid 1990s, when Hamish Keith was creating, operating and leading ground breaking cycle tours throughout Thailand and in emerging destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar for well known companies such as Exodus Travels and World Expeditions and his own company the Wild Planet.

In 2000 Hamish decided to concentrate on what he loved doing the most and he established SpiceRoads as a specialist cycle tour operator in the region he knew best - Southeast Asia. The “niche” was to promote bicycle group tours directly to clients all around the world via the internet. Hamish set the standard for all subsequent SpiceRoads tours by offering a high quality tour - from customer service, to bicycles, to well researched routes to the guides we use – at a good value.

In 2002, when Hamish left to pursue other opportunities in the travel industry, Struan Robertson came on board, and with his skills in management, IT and of course cycling, the company has grown to encompass other Asian countries. During the years of growth what hasn't changed is the spirit of SpiceRoads, which is to offer professional, international standard cycle tours and services to independent travellers and cycle enthusiast looking to discover Asia by bicycle.

Our well-planned eye-opening cycling tours provide an active immersion into local cultures, languages, scenery and, of course, the most delicious of foods. By combining legendary service and rare opportunities for cultural experiences, our travel philosophy continues to excite, enthuse, and positively impact every guest. Take a look at our guestbook if you don't believe us!

SpiceRoads' staff and all of our professionally licensed multi-lingual tour guides are passionate about creating the best possible experiences, with fun, creativity, and total dedication to satisfaction.

We're always peddling towards making your tour perfect so you can See Asia by Bicycle!

Tour Company Background: SpiceRoads Cycle Tours: Self-guided

SpiceRoads endeavors to offer high-quality, educational, and adventure-filled itineraries that highlight and focus on the diversity of landscapes found in Asia and its people. As a specialized "niche" bicycle tour operator since 2000, we provide the most authentic, unique and exciting adventures in Asia.

The SpiceRoads family began back in the mid 1990s, when Hamish Keith was creating, operating and leading ground breaking cycle tours throughout Thailand and in emerging destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar for well known companies such as Exodus Travels and World Expeditions and his own company the Wild Planet.

In 2000 Hamish decided to concentrate on what he loved doing the most and he established SpiceRoads as a specialist cycle tour operator in the region he knew best - Southeast Asia. The “niche” was to promote bicycle group tours directly to clients all around the world via the internet. Hamish set the standard for all subsequent SpiceRoads tours by offering a high quality tour - from customer service, to bicycles, to well researched routes to the guides we use – at a good value.

In 2002, when Hamish left to pursue other opportunities in the travel industry, Struan Robertson came on board, and with his skills in management, IT and of course cycling, the company has grown to encompass other Asian countries. During the years of growth what hasn't changed is the spirit of SpiceRoads, which is to offer professional, international standard cycle tours and services to independent travellers and cycle enthusiast looking to discover Asia by bicycle.

Our well-planned eye-opening cycling tours provide an active immersion into local cultures, languages, scenery and, of course, the most delicious of foods. By combining legendary service and rare opportunities for cultural experiences, our travel philosophy continues to excite, enthuse, and positively impact every guest. Take a look at our guestbook if you don't believe us!

SpiceRoads' staff and all of our professionally licensed multi-lingual tour guides are passionate about creating the best possible experiences, with fun, creativity, and total dedication to satisfaction.

We're always peddling towards making your tour perfect so you can See Asia by Bicycle!

Terms and Conditions: SpiceRoads Cycle Tours: Guided

Spice Roads Cancellation Policy

(Involuntary) On the rare occasions when we, SpiceRoads, must cancel a trip, all payments received to date will be 100% refunded, which constitutes full settlement. There will be absolutely no deductions.

(Voluntary) If you, the client, must cancel your reservation, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the following formula:

For all tours (except short Thailand tours 4 days or less, see below):

 **Administration fees include bank fees and exchange rate losses.

Exceptions to this policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather or personal emergencies. Please note:

• There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early.
• Single supplements are considered part of the trip price and are subject to cancellation fees.
• Spice Roads reserves the right to make route and hotel modifications as needed.
• Spice Roads is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets.
• Guests who fail to provide signed "Release of Liability and Assumption of All Risks" and personal information forms prior to trip departure will not be allowed to join the trip and the cancellation policy applies.

We strongly advise that clients have full personal travel insurance that covers for the refund of monies paid in case either party cancels the tour for any reason.

We regret that we cannot be held responsible for incidental/consequential costs or expenses you may incur as a result of any changes or cancellations. No compensation is payable for minor changes.

Any damages/injuries incurred that are attributable to your own actions, acts of some other party unconnected with the contract services or where the damage/injury results from events/circumstances which our outside our control and could not be reasonably foreseen.

For damages where SpiceRoads is responsible, our liability is strictly limited to twice the total price of the tour. In booking a tour with SpiceRoads you, the client, are agreeing to these terms and you accept this limit on our liability. This limit allows us to keep the prices of our tours as low as possible.

Documentation

You must be in possession of a valid passport and all the visas and permits required for your tour. This includes any medical certificates that are required. The client accepts full responsibility for obtaining any and all such documentation. Every client is encouraged to contact the consulate/embassy for the countries they are traveling in respectively to receive the latest and most current information about their immigration / transit policies.

SpiceRoads does not accept responsibility if your documentation is not in order. Information provided by the company about these matters and other related items (clothing, baggage, climate etc.) is given in good faith but without responsibility on the part of the company.

Travel Insurance

For all tours (except short Thailand tours 4 days or less, see below):

SpiceRoads insists that all clients must take out good travel insurance before joining one of our tours. There are inherent risks involved in cycling and mountain biking and we will not be liable for your medical expenses or evacuation in case of an accident.

This insurance must include adequate coverage for any personal accident, medical expenses, injury, death and repatriation. Insurance should also provide coverage for cancellations or curtailment of the holiday. Clients should also ensure that there are no exclusion clauses limiting protection for any dangerous or unusual activities that might be included in their tour.

If you join the tour without adequate insurance you may be disallowed from continuing on the tour without the right of refund. Clients are solely responsible for arranging their own insurance and they should ensure that they are covered for the full duration of their tour. Your tour leader will ask for copies of your insurance before allowing you to join the tour. This protects both you and us.

In case of an accident, please consult with your tour leader or contact our reservation staff at +66(0) 89 895 5680 (24 hour hot line).

Tour Authority

Upon signing up for a tour you must agree to accept the authority of the tour leader who is the representative of the company. The tour leader should be regarded as the same as a “ship’s captain” or an airline’s “Pilot.”

At all times the authority of your tour leader will be final when concerning matters likely to endanger your own health or safety or in regard to behavior or ill health that is causing or is likely to cause danger, distress or disturbance to the group and the well-being of the tour. Failure to abide by the authority of the tour leader could result in legal proceedings and the immediate termination of your participation in the tour without recourse.

In such circumstances we reserve the right to terminate all travel arrangements without liability on the part of the company. You must always comply with the local law, customs and drug regulations of the country/ies you are visiting. Failure to do so may lead to you being ordered to leave the tour without recourse to any refund or any legal claim against the company. In the case of ill health the company and its operators can make those arrangements that it sees fit and recover all monies paid from the client. The person who signs the booking form (which incorporates these conditions) warrants that he/she does so, with full authority on behalf of all those whose names appear thereon, and confirms thereby that all such persons accept and are fully aware of these conditions.

No refund will be given for non-utilized services, however if we are able to obtain a refund ourselves for these services we will endeavor to pass these on to the client less reasonable administration charges.

Surcharges

SpiceRoads pledges never to increase the tour price except under exceptional circumstances for those that have previously book the tour. Circumstances of this policy include: government action or legislation that directs the company to increase prices, exceptional and unfavorable changes in exchange rates that exceed a 20% fluctuation or currency devaluation.

Clients will be notified of any price increase at least 4 weeks before departure.

Flights or delays

We will not accept any liability for any delay in your outward or inward flight/s, whether the cancellation or delay is caused by the weather, airline rescheduling, industrial action or mechanical failure. We will give no refunds or compensation for lost time and services from the itinerary.

Complaints

Should you have a complaint while on tour, you must notify your guide, or the local operator, at the earliest opportunity, so that they can do what they can to immediately rectify it. Failure to do so will result in the limiting of a client's ability to claim compensation. If the problem is not brought to our attention we have no opportunity to rectify it. Any complaints should be sent to us in writing, or by email, not more than 28 days after the tour ends.

Complaints related to booking, inquires, billing, sales or operations should be directed to the Sales and Marketing Manager and/or the General Manager.

Anything Else

If there is anything else you need to know or want to hear in order to put your mind at rest, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Limited Liability

SpiceRoads is not liable for any bodily injury or property damage as a result of (but not limited to): physical exertion for which a guest is not prepared; forces of nature; travel by plane, train, auto, boat or other conveyance, or by bicycle, horseback, foot or other form of active or adventure travel; consumption of alcoholic beverages; civil unrest; terrorism; breakdown of equipment; high altitude; lack of or limited access to medical attention in remote locations; and the adequacy of medical attention once provided.

SpiceRoads is also not liable for: expenses (e.g., meals, transportation or hotel costs) that are not specified as included in the trip cost but may be required to get to or from a trip start or end point.

SpiceRoads reserves the right to make route and hotel modifications as necessary to improve the trip quality or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests. Guests grant SpiceRoads express permission to take photographs or make film records of its trips for promotional and commercial use, as well as approve such use by third parties with whom SpiceRoads may engage in joint marketing, without financial remuneration.

To view our liability release form click here. You will be asked to sign this form before you start your tour.

Terms and Conditions: SpiceRoads Cycle Tours: Self-guided

Spice Roads Cancellation Policy

(Involuntary) On the rare occasions when we, SpiceRoads, must cancel a trip, all payments received to date will be 100% refunded, which constitutes full settlement. There will be absolutely no deductions.

(Voluntary) If you, the client, must cancel your reservation, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the following formula:

For all tours (except short Thailand tours 4 days or less, see below):

 **Administration fees include bank fees and exchange rate losses.

Exceptions to this policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather or personal emergencies. Please note:

• There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early.
• Single supplements are considered part of the trip price and are subject to cancellation fees.
• Spice Roads reserves the right to make route and hotel modifications as needed.
• Spice Roads is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets.
• Guests who fail to provide signed "Release of Liability and Assumption of All Risks" and personal information forms prior to trip departure will not be allowed to join the trip and the cancellation policy applies.

We strongly advise that clients have full personal travel insurance that covers for the refund of monies paid in case either party cancels the tour for any reason.

We regret that we cannot be held responsible for incidental/consequential costs or expenses you may incur as a result of any changes or cancellations. No compensation is payable for minor changes.

Any damages/injuries incurred that are attributable to your own actions, acts of some other party unconnected with the contract services or where the damage/injury results from events/circumstances which our outside our control and could not be reasonably foreseen.

For damages where SpiceRoads is responsible, our liability is strictly limited to twice the total price of the tour. In booking a tour with SpiceRoads you, the client, are agreeing to these terms and you accept this limit on our liability. This limit allows us to keep the prices of our tours as low as possible.

Documentation

You must be in possession of a valid passport and all the visas and permits required for your tour. This includes any medical certificates that are required. The client accepts full responsibility for obtaining any and all such documentation. Every client is encouraged to contact the consulate/embassy for the countries they are traveling in respectively to receive the latest and most current information about their immigration / transit policies.

SpiceRoads does not accept responsibility if your documentation is not in order. Information provided by the company about these matters and other related items (clothing, baggage, climate etc.) is given in good faith but without responsibility on the part of the company.

Travel Insurance

For all tours (except short Thailand tours 4 days or less, see below):

SpiceRoads insists that all clients must take out good travel insurance before joining one of our tours. There are inherent risks involved in cycling and mountain biking and we will not be liable for your medical expenses or evacuation in case of an accident.

This insurance must include adequate coverage for any personal accident, medical expenses, injury, death and repatriation. Insurance should also provide coverage for cancellations or curtailment of the holiday. Clients should also ensure that there are no exclusion clauses limiting protection for any dangerous or unusual activities that might be included in their tour.

If you join the tour without adequate insurance you may be disallowed from continuing on the tour without the right of refund. Clients are solely responsible for arranging their own insurance and they should ensure that they are covered for the full duration of their tour. Your tour leader will ask for copies of your insurance before allowing you to join the tour. This protects both you and us.

In case of an accident, please consult with your tour leader or contact our reservation staff at +66(0) 89 895 5680 (24 hour hot line).

Tour Authority

Upon signing up for a tour you must agree to accept the authority of the tour leader who is the representative of the company. The tour leader should be regarded as the same as a “ship’s captain” or an airline’s “Pilot.”

At all times the authority of your tour leader will be final when concerning matters likely to endanger your own health or safety or in regard to behavior or ill health that is causing or is likely to cause danger, distress or disturbance to the group and the well-being of the tour. Failure to abide by the authority of the tour leader could result in legal proceedings and the immediate termination of your participation in the tour without recourse.

In such circumstances we reserve the right to terminate all travel arrangements without liability on the part of the company. You must always comply with the local law, customs and drug regulations of the country/ies you are visiting. Failure to do so may lead to you being ordered to leave the tour without recourse to any refund or any legal claim against the company. In the case of ill health the company and its operators can make those arrangements that it sees fit and recover all monies paid from the client. The person who signs the booking form (which incorporates these conditions) warrants that he/she does so, with full authority on behalf of all those whose names appear thereon, and confirms thereby that all such persons accept and are fully aware of these conditions.

No refund will be given for non-utilized services, however if we are able to obtain a refund ourselves for these services we will endeavor to pass these on to the client less reasonable administration charges.

Surcharges

SpiceRoads pledges never to increase the tour price except under exceptional circumstances for those that have previously book the tour. Circumstances of this policy include: government action or legislation that directs the company to increase prices, exceptional and unfavorable changes in exchange rates that exceed a 20% fluctuation or currency devaluation.

Clients will be notified of any price increase at least 4 weeks before departure.

Flights or delays

We will not accept any liability for any delay in your outward or inward flight/s, whether the cancellation or delay is caused by the weather, airline rescheduling, industrial action or mechanical failure. We will give no refunds or compensation for lost time and services from the itinerary.

Complaints

Should you have a complaint while on tour, you must notify your guide, or the local operator, at the earliest opportunity, so that they can do what they can to immediately rectify it. Failure to do so will result in the limiting of a client's ability to claim compensation. If the problem is not brought to our attention we have no opportunity to rectify it. Any complaints should be sent to us in writing, or by email, not more than 28 days after the tour ends.

Complaints related to booking, inquires, billing, sales or operations should be directed to the Sales and Marketing Manager and/or the General Manager.

Anything Else

If there is anything else you need to know or want to hear in order to put your mind at rest, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Limited Liability

SpiceRoads is not liable for any bodily injury or property damage as a result of (but not limited to): physical exertion for which a guest is not prepared; forces of nature; travel by plane, train, auto, boat or other conveyance, or by bicycle, horseback, foot or other form of active or adventure travel; consumption of alcoholic beverages; civil unrest; terrorism; breakdown of equipment; high altitude; lack of or limited access to medical attention in remote locations; and the adequacy of medical attention once provided.

SpiceRoads is also not liable for: expenses (e.g., meals, transportation or hotel costs) that are not specified as included in the trip cost but may be required to get to or from a trip start or end point.

SpiceRoads reserves the right to make route and hotel modifications as necessary to improve the trip quality or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests. Guests grant SpiceRoads express permission to take photographs or make film records of its trips for promotional and commercial use, as well as approve such use by third parties with whom SpiceRoads may engage in joint marketing, without financial remuneration.

To view our liability release form click here. You will be asked to sign this form before you start your tour.