Malaysia for Nature Lovers

Untamed Borneo

Tour Description: Guided

Dense jungles, wild animals and exotic flora will be your introduction to Borneo on this cycling holiday. Rivers, mountains, and beaches are to follow as we bike on dirt and tarmac roads across the north of Borneo.

We’ll spend two nights in the midst of Malaysia’s largest wildlife reserve, where bird life is teeming, with more than 220 species recorded, and explore the active mud volcanoes. We spend an afternoon sighting proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo, as we boat through the mangroves of the Kinabatagan River and then visit a sanctuary for proboscis and another for orang utans learning how to return to the jungle at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre.

We switch tracks and find ourselves in the footsteps of allied POWs who were forced to walk in a series of marches from January to June 1945 from their camp in Sandakan to the small settlement of Ranau. Of the 2,400 prisoners, six Australians survived. Our journey will bear little semblance to what the prisoners went through as we ride through small hamlets old logging roads through palm plantations.

As we approach majestic Mount Kinabalu, the terrain becomes hillier and a bit more challenging as we ride through orchards, pine forests and a tea plantation. From our position up high with spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu we descend to the stunning coastline and are rewarded for all our efforts with a night at the luxurious Rasa Ria Spa Resort.

This trip has it all, unique flora and fauna, spectacular mountain scenery, a beautiful beach and of course great cycling!

Learn more about guided tours. 

Tour Description: Self-guided

Dense jungles, wild animals and exotic flora will be your introduction to Borneo on this cycling holiday. Rivers, mountains, and beaches are to follow as we bike on dirt and tarmac roads across the north of Borneo.

We’ll spend two nights in the midst of Malaysia’s largest wildlife reserve, where bird life is teeming, with more than 220 species recorded, and explore the active mud volcanoes. We spend an afternoon sighting proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo, as we boat through the mangroves of the Kinabatagan River and then visit a sanctuary for proboscis and another for orang utans learning how to return to the jungle at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre.

We switch tracks and find ourselves in the footsteps of allied POWs who were forced to walk in a series of marches from January to June 1945 from their camp in Sandakan to the small settlement of Ranau. Of the 2,400 prisoners, six Australians survived. Our journey will bear little semblance to what the prisoners went through as we ride through small hamlets old logging roads through palm plantations.

As we approach majestic Mount Kinabalu, the terrain becomes hillier and a bit more challenging as we ride through orchards, pine forests and a tea plantation. From our position up high with spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu we descend to the stunning coastline and are rewarded for all our efforts with a night at the luxurious Rasa Ria Spa Resort.

This trip has it all, unique flora and fauna, spectacular mountain scenery, a beautiful beach and of course great cycling!

Learn more about guided tours. 

Highlights: Guided

• Dense jungles, wild animals, and exotic flora
• Malaysia's largest wildlife reserve
• Kinabatagan River
• Sepilok Rehabilitation Center (where orangutans are re-introduced to the wild)

Highlights: Self-guided

• Dense jungles, wild animals, and exotic flora
• Malaysia's largest wildlife reserve
• Kinabatagan River
• Sepilok Rehabilitation Center (where orangutans are re-introduced to the wild)

Daily Program: Guided

Day 1: Arrive Kota Kinabalu
Welcome to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of the State of Sabah. After transferring from the airport you’ll have time to check in and rest at our hotel before we meet for a welcome dinner and trip briefing at a traditional local restaurant. Meals: D.
Overnight in Kota Kinabalu. 

Day 2: Kota Kinabalu – Lahad Datu – Tabin Wildlife Reserve (22 miles/35 km)
A morning flight will take us across Borneo to Lahad Datu and then after lunch it’s a quick drive to our starting point. After making sure the bikes fit we’ll begin our ride on a rolling dirt road to the Tabin Wildlife Reserve.

We’ll overnight in the middle of 123, 000 hectares of tropical flora and fauna that comprise the reserve area. This rainforest is also home to more than 220 species of birds, the three largest mammals of Sabah -- Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros and Tembadau -- nine species of primates, as well as three species of cats. We’ll take an evening jungle trek (weather permitting) to give us a glimpse into the nocturnal life around us. Meals: B, L, D. 
Overnight at Tabin Wildlife Resort. 

Day 3: Tabin Wildlife Reserve  (12 miles/20 km)
You may opt to wake up early and join a morning walk to discover some of Tabin’s exotic bird species. After breakfast, we’ll cycle on dirt roads to the Core Area, with more wildlife sighting en route, and return for a late lunch at Tabin Resort. The afternoon is free to enjoy your balcony or to wander around some more and around dusk we'll head to see one of the highlights of the reserve, the active and mineral-rich mud volcanoes, attracting frequent visits by wildlife for their mineral intake and an ideal place for wildlife observation. Mealsd: B, L, D. 
Overnight at Tabin Wildlife Resort. 

Day 4: Tabin Wildlife Reserve – Bilit (16 miles/26 km)
After being woken up by the sounds of the jungle, we’ll cycle out of the reserve, hoping to catch one last glimpse of some primates or a horn bill. We then transfer about two hours to Kg Bilit. We arrive early enough to savor a late afternoon boat ride on the Kinabatagan River where we’ll see the rambunctious proboscis monkeys in their element, and if we are lucky, other wildlife such as orang utans and pygmy elephants. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight at Myne Resort in Bilit. 

Day 5: Bilit – Gomantong Caves - Sepilok (22-30 miles/36 to 50km)
Following breakfast we’ll start riding from the resort, cycling 8 km off road and then 17 km on a paved road to the Gomantong Caves. Here locals collect birds' nests, a prized delicacy among the Chinese. Three times a year. The harvesters climb up to 100 meters high on rattan ladders to collect the nests of the resident swiftlets. After our visit we transfer to a junction and cycle 14 km through palm plantations to the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary. We arrive in time for a feeding and a chance to see these unique monkeys up close. You’ll have the option to cycle back out or transfer directly to our overnight at Sepilok. Meals: B, L, D. 
Overnight at Sepilok Jungle Resort. 

Day 6: Sepilok – Kg Dusun - Telupid (39 miles/63km)
Our morning starts with a breakfast of lots of bananas, but not for us, for the orang utans we’ll visit at the rehabilitation centre. After watching these mischievous apes eat and play we take a short drive to Kg Dusun where we start today’s off road riding. The rolling track follows the route of the infamous World War II Sandakan death marches, though palm plantations have since replaced much of the jungle that the prisoners struggled through. We ride 10 km on kampung roads through the plantations to Manjang where we’ll have a local lunch at a restaurant. Then we’ll hit the tarmac for 18 km to Muanad junction and then it’s a fantastic 35 km ride on an undulating dirt road to Ulu Sapi Mill. After the final hill we’ll transfer to our overnight at Telupid. Meals: B, L, D. 
Overnight at IPS Resthouse in Telupid. 

Day 7: Telupid – Sabah Tea Garden (17 miles/27km)
We begin the day with a short transfer to the Sandakan Death March track. Today’s riding will be quite hilly, and definitely off the beaten path. We cross quite a few small streams and will have earned our lunch after 17 km of riding. We transfer to our overnight destination for lunch and check in to the Sabah Tea Garden. After a short rest we’ll head back out for some great off road cycling around the tea plantation following the route of the Sabah Tea Adventure Race, taking in great views of Mount Kinabalu. Tonight we’ll experience what it’s like to sleep in a traditional Rungus Longhouse. Each room has its own sink, however hot showers are shared. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight at Sabah Tea Garden. 

Day 8: Sabah Tea Garden - Ranau (25 miles/30 km)
After breakfast we’ll have a tour of the tea factory and learn how tea is grown without fertilizers and goes from plant to processed tea. We have a short transfer to avoid the highway and then it’s an undulating ride on a mix of tarmac and off road that will take us to Poring Hot Springs. Here you’ll have a chance to go for a dip in the therapeutic waters, go for a canopy walk or hike to a small waterfall. And if you are lucky, a Rafflesia will be in bloom nearby.

After lunch we'll transfer to Tanah Merah to a POW memorial where we’ll take a break before we enjoy more quiet country roads as we cycle through orchards to our charming home stay. We have the afternoon free to check the internet, do some laundry or relax on the wonderful porch built over a stream. Dinner will be a treat, with local specialties made by our hosts, former government officials. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight at Slagon Homestay in Ranau. 

Day 9: Ranau - Kundasang (15 miles/24 km)
Following a traditional local breakfast we transfer 30 minutes to Kibbas to start our day’s adventure. Today’s ride is tough, because as soon as we go down it’s back up again and all on dirt roads. We are ride through small farms beneath the shadow of Mount Kinabalu, which rises to 4,905 meters and dominates the landscape. We head to Kundasang and overnight at a hotel with spectacular views of the peak. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight at Perkasa Hotel in Kundasang. 

Day 10: Kundasang – Rasa Ria (17 miles/27 km)
We transfer to Taginambur for a mix of tarmac and off road riding of 27 km. We are now leaving the cool mountain air behind for the heat of the coastal plains. After our efforts we’ll take a short transfer to Kota Belud for lunch. After lunch it’s a one hour transfer to our luxurious accommodation on the outskirts of Kota Kinabalu. We’ll arrive in the late afternoon so you can enjoy the resort before we meet up for a farewell dinner. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort. 

Day 11: Departure
Transfer to Airport Transfer to Kota Kinabalu airport. Meals: B. 

**Optional Mount Kinabalu trek:  If arriving early or staying on after we offer an optional trekking tour to Mount Kinabalu. At 4,100m Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia and perhaps the most stunning and iconic mountains in Southeast Asia. Conquering its jagged peaks is an attainable challenge for any fit person and will leave you with a profound sense of accomplishment. Our 2 day/1 night trip is US$395 per person, based on a minimum of 2 persons. Which includes: transfers to and from Kota Kinabalu to park headquarters, guide, climbing fees and permits, mountain bed and blanket, packed lunch and dinner day 1, breakfast day 2. If you’d like more information, please contact us.

Daily Program: Self-guided

Dates: Guided

Feb 10; Apr 7; Jul 14; Sep 1; Oct 6, 2013

Dates: Self-guided

Route Map: Guided

Route Map: Self-guided

Packages and Prices: Guided

Tour package (guided)
Per person, double occupancy $2295 Single room supplement (1 person/1 room) $395 Bike Rentals Mountain bike rental $150

Packages and Prices: Self-guided

Included Services: Guided

• 10 nights accommodations in hotels and resorts
• Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners as stated on itinerary
• Air-conditioned support vehicle
• Local English-speaking guide
• Water, energy-restoring local fruit and drinks during rides

We recommend that you tuck away a few extra dollars, perhaps US$20 a day for incidentals.

Included Services: Self-guided

Hotels: Guided

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability. 

Kota Kinabalu: The Palace Hotel
http://www.thepalacehotel-sabah.com/

Tabin Wildlife Resort
http://www.tabinwildlife.com.my/

Bilit: Myne Resort
http://resort.myne.com.my/index.php 

Sepilok: Seipilk Jungle Resort
http://www.sepilokjungleresort.com/

Hotels: Self-guided

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability. 

Kota Kinabalu: The Palace Hotel
http://www.thepalacehotel-sabah.com/

Tabin Wildlife Resort
http://www.tabinwildlife.com.my/

Bilit: Myne Resort
http://resort.myne.com.my/index.php 

Sepilok: Seipilk Jungle Resort
http://www.sepilokjungleresort.com/

Bike Rentals: Guided

The bikes are brand name mountain bikes with lightweight alloy frames, 24- to 27-speed gearing, disc/v-brakes and Shimano components and front suspension. If you bring your own bike, please make sure it is a mountain bike, preferably with front suspension, and that 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 all our 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.

We will be supported by air-conditioned vehicles that have been specially modified for cycle tours. The vehicles follow us most of the time, but there are a few sections where they cannot follow and they will meet us at the trail head. It is very easy to get bikes on and off, so you can rest when you are tired and cycle whenever you feel like it.

Bike Rentals: Self-guided

The bikes are brand name mountain bikes with lightweight alloy frames, 24- to 27-speed gearing, disc/v-brakes and Shimano components and front suspension. If you bring your own bike, please make sure it is a mountain bike, preferably with front suspension, and that 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 all our 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.

We will be supported by air-conditioned vehicles that have been specially modified for cycle tours. The vehicles follow us most of the time, but there are a few sections where they cannot follow and they will meet us at the trail head. It is very easy to get bikes on and off, so you can rest when you are tired and cycle whenever you feel like it.

Surface and Terrain: Guided

The road surfaces are mixed: most days we ride on a mix of dirt and bitumen village and plantation roads, though there will also be some good quality tarmac roads. There are enough rides on dirt tracks to mean you will need a mountain bike, and preferably one with front shocks.

However, there is nothing technical involved on this tour but some off road riding experience will make this trip more enjoyable. A support truck is available most of the trip to help, though there are a few sections where we will have limited support.  

The beginning of this ride is relatively flat and the riding gets hillier towards the end of our adventure. Although distances are not huge, the heat and humidity of equatorial Sabah ensure things feel hot. This is a true journey through the finest terrain and scenery of North Borneo, with the best nature and wildlife thrown in along the way, ensuring you get the very best of everything from your cycling efforts.

This trip is rated moderate and is for cyclists in good physical condition. 

Surface and Terrain: Self-guided

The road surfaces are mixed: most days we ride on a mix of dirt and bitumen village and plantation roads, though there will also be some good quality tarmac roads. There are enough rides on dirt tracks to mean you will need a mountain bike, and preferably one with front shocks.

However, there is nothing technical involved on this tour but some off road riding experience will make this trip more enjoyable. A support truck is available most of the trip to help, though there are a few sections where we will have limited support.  

The beginning of this ride is relatively flat and the riding gets hillier towards the end of our adventure. Although distances are not huge, the heat and humidity of equatorial Sabah ensure things feel hot. This is a true journey through the finest terrain and scenery of North Borneo, with the best nature and wildlife thrown in along the way, ensuring you get the very best of everything from your cycling efforts.

This trip is rated moderate and is for cyclists in good physical condition. 

How To Get There: Guided

Tour start and end
Nearest airport: Kota Kinabalu

This tour starts and ends at Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. International flights to and from there are not included in the tour price. A domestic flight to Lahad Datu is included in the price. Please contact us for advice before arranging flights for the best arrival and departure times.

How To Get There: Self-guided

Tour start and end
Nearest airport: Kota Kinabalu

This tour starts and ends at Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. International flights to and from there are not included in the tour price. A domestic flight to Lahad Datu is included in the price. Please contact us for advice before arranging flights for the best arrival and departure times.

Weather: Guided

Borneo has an equatorial climate, which is hot and humid year-round. Average daily temperatures are around 30 Celsius and the humidity can be high. Rain is also fairly common though we have scheduled these tours to avoid the monsoon season.

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

Borneo has an equatorial climate, which is hot and humid year-round. Average daily temperatures are around 30 Celsius and the humidity can be high. Rain is also fairly common though we have scheduled these tours to avoid the monsoon season.

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.

Visas and Vaccinations: Guided

Passports and Visas
Please verify that your passport is current and make a photocopy that you can carry with you at all times. Travellers from Australia, the United Kingdom, US and EU do not need a visa to Malaysia for a visit of less than three months.

Health
There are no special vaccinations required for Malaysia; however you may want to take Malaria tablets as we will be traveling in Borneo's jungle area. Please check with your doctor prior to departure.

Visas and Vaccinations: Self-guided

Passports and Visas
Please verify that your passport is current and make a photocopy that you can carry with you at all times. Travellers from Australia, the United Kingdom, US and EU do not need a visa to Malaysia for a visit of less than three months.

Health
There are no special vaccinations required for Malaysia; however you may want to take Malaria tablets as we will be traveling in Borneo's jungle area. Please check with your doctor prior to departure.

Food and Drink: Guided

Food
Meals are included as per the itinerary where B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner. Most meals are local Malay food and feature noodles, rice, curries and soups. Any special dietary requirements can also be catered for as well. Please let us know at the time of booking.

Drink
Keeping you completely hydrated is a job we take very seriously. Cold water, some energy-restoring local fruit and soft drinks are included in the tour price while riding. Soft drinks and other beverages during meals are not included. We are riding in a Muslim country and though beer is available, it might not be served in some halal restaurants where we will eat. If you choose to purchase some beer please note it is NOT included in the price.

Food and Drink: Self-guided

Food
Meals are included as per the itinerary where B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner. Most meals are local Malay food and feature noodles, rice, curries and soups. Any special dietary requirements can also be catered for as well. Please let us know at the time of booking.

Drink
Keeping you completely hydrated is a job we take very seriously. Cold water, some energy-restoring local fruit and soft drinks are included in the tour price while riding. Soft drinks and other beverages during meals are not included. We are riding in a Muslim country and though beer is available, it might not be served in some halal restaurants where we will eat. If you choose to purchase some beer please note it is NOT included in the price.

Money and Currency: Guided

The official currency is the Malaysian ringgit (RM). Foreign currencies are not generally accepted. The airport is the best places to exchange money. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, but you’ll need cash in villages and in the jungle. Credit cards can be used only in larger hotels.

We recommend that you tuck away a few extra dollars, perhaps US$10, for incidentals. It is customary to tip local tour guides and drivers, however, the amount you give should be dependent on the level of service you receive. As a general guide we suggest US$ 3-4 per person per day is appropriate.  

Money and Currency: Self-guided

The official currency is the Malaysian ringgit (RM). Foreign currencies are not generally accepted. The airport is the best places to exchange money. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, but you’ll need cash in villages and in the jungle. Credit cards can be used only in larger hotels.

We recommend that you tuck away a few extra dollars, perhaps US$10, for incidentals. It is customary to tip local tour guides and drivers, however, the amount you give should be dependent on the level of service you receive. As a general guide we suggest US$ 3-4 per person per day is appropriate.  

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.