Why travel with Untamed Borders?
We are part of a small but growing group of travel companies that are truly dedicated to the places they are taking people to. For many of the regions we guide in we do not pass on our bookings to a local tourism agency, for the simple fact is that no such agencies exist. In those areas we have helped build the local tourism infrastructure and train guides. In regions where there is a tourism infrastructure, we work with small organisations or private guides. We do not run the same cookie-cutter trips numerous times a year. They are designed to have unique, authentic experiences.
We are committed to responsible travel in a number of ways. We are committed to adventure, community, the environment and safety & security. For a more detailed explanation of how we demonstrate these four commitments, visit our page about responsible travel here.
Unlike other UK or European based travel companies, we are part-owned by people from Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Is it really safe to visit Afghanistan/Somalia/Iraq etc?
We have worked for over a decade bringing people safely to places with a higher level of security risk than most other travel companies. Each country and region has a unique security situation and we monitor this very closely with our contacts on the ground. For information about the security situation of a specific trip, please do get in touch.
We work hard to reduce risk in the regions we work to an acceptable level and we make careful decisions about the areas we visit, the team we work with, the vehicles we use and the accommodation we select.
What are fixed date trips?
‘Fixed date’ trips are trips for small groups of people scheduled at fixed times throughout the year. You can book a place on these trips and travel as part of this group. We have a maximum number of places on each of our trips depending on the destination. Usually, this number is between 8 and 10.
What are private trips?
Private trips are trips that are not open to the public. They are booked by a private individual or small private group and have been customised to suit the length of time, budget and interests of the individual or group. If you are interested in booking a private trip, get in touch.
Can you create an entirely custom trip for me?
Yes, we can create a bespoke trip for you based around your interests or work with you to recommend an itinerary that visits specific places of interest or involves specific activities, for example, skiing, horse riding, scuba diving, kayaking etc. We are a company have organised a lot of ‘firsts’ in this regard (first commercial ski trip to Iraq, the first kayak trip in Afghanistan) etc.
Can I do a fixed date trip on my own?
You can certainly follow the same itinerary as a fixed date trip and book it as a private trip for just yourself or a small group.
How do I book a trip?
You can book one of our fixed date trips via the website. Navigate to the trip you are interested in, click on the ‘Dates & Prices’ tab, click the ‘Book’ button next to the dates you want travel and continue to the checkout page. You will only need to place a deposit of US$400 in the first instance. A member of the team will get in touch with you 60 days before departure to arrange the payment of the balance.
Alternatively you contact a member of the team: info@untamedborders.com
What is included in the trip cost?
Each trip has slightly different inclusions and exclusions, check the relevant itinerary page for the specifics of the trip you are interested in. Generally speaking, accommodation, airport transfers, all ground transport, drivers, guides, breakfast and any internal flights are included in the cost. International flights are never included in the trip price.
Is my departure guaranteed?
Most trips are not guaranteed until the minimum number of guests have booked. The minimum number varies from trip to trip. Please check with us before booking your flights. If the minimum number of guests have not been reached we will try our bests to offer an alternative plan. If we need to cancel the trip any money paid will be reimbursed.
Can I have a single room?
For fixed date trips, prices are based on sharing a room with another guest of the same gender. However, for each trip, we list a ‘single supplement’ option. This is an additional charge you can pay in order to have your own room.
Can I add extra nights before or after the trip?
Yes, in some areas you can absolutely extend your stay before or after the trip. You can arrange an “add-on” to see some additional areas with a guide if you wish, or you can simply book an extra night at the accommodation before or after. This does not apply to all countries though, so please do check with us directly.
Can I book my flights through Untamed Borders?
We do not directly arrange international flights. We can suggest routes and operators. We will organise any internal flights mentioned within itineraries.
Do I need a visa? If so can you help with obtaining a visa?
For many of our trips, a visa is required for most nationalities. We will be able to advise you of the necessary steps to obtain a visa for your trip.
Do I need vaccinations?
Please consult your doctor or travel clinic as requirements vary from country to country. There are certain countries that do require yellow fever certificates for entry, such as South Sudan. We will highlight this to you.
Do I need travel insurance for my trip?
Yes, you do.
The reason we ask for insurance is twofold.
Firstly, it is a legal requirement for us as a tour operator under the EU tour operators legislation. As a British registered company, we fall under these regulations in how we operate.
The second, and to us, more important reason is that we have a responsibility to you while you are in Afghanistan. In the event of an accident, incident or illness our team will do as much as it can to get medical aid for you as quickly as possible. Both in a first aid scenario and then to get you to a medical facility. We feel a moral responsibility to you while you are under our care.
For a list of potential insurers, get in touch.
Is my trip protected financially?
Yes, it is. We are committed to customer satisfaction and consumer financial protection. All passenger bookings with Untamed Borders Ltd are fully insured for the initial deposit, and subsequently the balance of monies paid as detailed in your booking confirmation form. See link for more details.