Frequently
Asked
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Here to help

Recognizing the difficulties and frustrations involved in trip planning, we’ve included this FAQ page to address some of the most commonly asked questions about our tours.

Our goal is to provide you with all the necessary information to help you feel confident and enthusiastic about joining us on a vegan adventure!

If the answer to your query can’t be found on this page, please don’t hesitate to contact us via our contact page.

We’re always delighted to learn more about your needs and address any additional questions you may have.

General info

Why don't you include all meals like some other vegan group tours?

Just because you’re vegan doesn’t mean you don’t want, or need, a little freedom and space from time to time.

We’re all about giving you flexibility, not boxing you into a rigid schedule. Here’s what that means:

Flexibility:
We include all breakfasts and some group meals. Every evening, your Tour Leader organises a group dinner for those who want to join. It’s totally optional, so you can come along if you fancy and just pay for what you eat and drink, or do your own thing when you feel like a change.

Local discovery:
We want to give you the opportunity to experience the local vegan scene on your own terms, not just eat at pre-chosen spots. We provide free interactive maps packed with vegan places we’ve personally tried and tested, so you’re never stuck for ideas.

Better value:
We understand that all-inclusive packages offer a degree of ease and convenience. But in practice, they often mean higher, inflated prices and meals at fixed times in pre-arranged restaurants that may not always suit you. In places like Asia, you can enjoy amazing meals for just a few dollars. Why pay extra upfront only to lose the freedom to eat where and when you choose?

And remember, our group meals are always optional, so the choice is yours every evening.

Real experiences:
Ordering something you can’t pronounce. Finding a local gem by chance. Trying a vegan version of a dish you’ve never had before. That’s what travel is all about. We don’t want to take that away. But if you’d prefer the convenience and comfort of eating with the group, that’s always an option too.

Bottom line:
We’re here when you need us, and we step back when you don’t. That balance is what makes our tours different.

Are your vegan tours suitable for solo travellers?

Absolutely!

Our group tours are perfect for solo travellers who want to meet like-minded people. Many of our guests travel alone and leave with new friends. We focus on creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

As a solo traveller, you can choose a private room or opt for a shared twin room with someone of the same gender. Plus, group tours naturally attract sociable, friendly people, so you’ll feel right at home.

What’s the typical vibe on a GoVegan Travel tour?

Relaxed, friendly, and low-pressure. Most people join our tours because they want to travel with like-minded others, not be herded around or talked at.

Some guests are outgoing, some more introverted, but everyone shares the same values and respect for others. There’s space for group connection and solo downtime – no one’s expected to be “on” all the time.

We don’t do loud party tours, and we don’t do forced fun.

Can non-vegans join the tours?

Absolutely. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just curious about plant-based travel, you’re welcome.

We know that not everyone travels solo – so if you’re bringing a non-vegan friend, partner, or family member, that’s totally fine too. Our tours are a chance to travel together in a way that’s thoughtful, inclusive, and fully vegan.

We just ask that you don’t bring or eat non-vegan food around the group, out of respect for others on the tour. And while questions are fine, this isn’t the place for debates about veganism – everyone’s here to relax, connect, and enjoy the experience.

It’s all about keeping the vibe positive and supportive for everyone.

What is the average age range of participants?

Like the average age of the average vegan, this will always vary.

Our tours are open to adults of all ages, and we aim to create a friendly, welcoming vibe no matter where you’re at in life. Whether you’re in your 20s, 60s, or somewhere in between, you won’t feel out of place.

We focus more on shared values and attitude than age. If you’re open-minded, respectful, and up for a bit of adventure, you’ll fit right in.

How physically demanding are the tours?

Our tours are designed to be relaxed and accessible, and are suitable for most people. You won’t need to be super fit – most trips involve some walking, light exploring, and occasional changes in transport.

That said, heat and humidity can make things feel more tiring, especially in tropical countries. We always build in downtime, use hotels with lifts wherever possible, and choose accommodations in accessible locations so you’re not stuck walking up steep hills or far from the action.

If you have mobility concerns, let us know before booking. When necessary, we’ll do our best to offer alternative options – for example, using a taxi instead of a tuk tuk. In some cases, this might involve extra costs, but we’ll always be upfront about it.

What's the group size for the tours?

We keep our groups small – usually between 8 and 15 people.

This makes the experience more personal and gives everyone space to feel included. It also helps the group bond as a whole, rather than splitting into cliques or sub-groups.

From experience, once you go over 15, it’s harder for the tour leader to keep that friendly group dynamic going – and that’s something we care about a lot.

Can I arrive early or stay longer after the tour?

Yes, of course. You’re welcome to arrive before the tour starts or stay on afterwards.

We can either book the same accommodation for you as part of your package or suggest accommodation and help with local logistics if you need advice. Just let us know what you’re thinking.

Do you offer private or custom group tours?

We don’t offer private tours for individuals or couples, but we can arrange private group tours on request.

If you have your own group and are interested in a private version of one of our existing itineraries, get in touch. If the dates and logistics work, we’ll let you know what’s possible.

Can I join part of the tour if I can’t stay the whole time?

Our tours are designed to run as full itineraries, and partial bookings aren’t encouraged. If you have specific circumstances, get in touch and we’ll let you know if there’s a way to make it work.

If you do need to arrive late or leave early, this is possible but we are unable to refund for part tours not taken and any costs for additional transport would be your own responsibility

Accommodation & Transport

What’s accommodation do you use?

We aim to use smaller, locally run hotels that offer comfort, character, and a more personal experience. However, in some locations – particularly in Asia – smaller hotels may have limited breakfast facilities, which can make consistent vegan options harder to guarantee.

In all cases, we aim for a 4-star standard or equivalent in comfort and service.

Fully vegan hotels are rare, but when available and up to standard, we prioritise them. Otherwise, we work closely with hotel teams to ensure they understand the needs of a vegan group and can provide balanced, varied, and satisfying plant-based meals.

If we find the ideal hotel in the perfect location but the breakfast offering isn’t suitable, we may choose to provide breakfast (or another meal) at a nearby vegan-friendly café or restaurant instead.

While we make every effort to avoid it, minor cross-contamination can occur in non-vegan kitchens. We choose our partners carefully and brief them thoroughly, but it’s something to be aware of when travelling in non-vegan regions.

Is there Wi-Fi or mobile signal during the tour?

Wi-Fi is usually available at hotels and many cafés. Mobile signals are generally very  reliable in cities and towns, but may be weaker in rural or remote areas.

If you’d like consistent access, we recommend getting a local SIM card on arrival or an eSIM – we can help you sort this out once you arrive.

Are airport transfers included?

Yes – arrival transfers are included to make things easy when you land.

We’ll meet you at the airport (as long as it matches the tour’s starting point) and take you by private vehicle to the joining hotel.

If other travellers are on the same flight and tour, you may share the ride – but only in that case.

We don’t include departure transfers, mainly to save you money. Local taxis and minivans from the final hotel are cheap and easy, and your tour leader can help arrange one at no extra cost.

Do you provide flights?

Any flights that are part of the tour (like domestic or regional legs) are fully included – with a luggage allowance of 15–20kg. We always recommend packing light.

We don’t include international flights to or from the tour – that way, you’re free to choose your own route, airline, dates, and cabin class to suit your needs.

Need help planning? Just ask. We’re happy to suggest routes or give advice if you’re unsure.

Do I need visas?

It depends on your nationality and the destination – visa rules vary and can change without warning.

We strongly recommend checking with the relevant embassy or consulate in your home country well in advance of travel.

If you’d prefer help with the process, there are reputable visa agencies online that can arrange it for you (for a fee, of course).

Booking, Deposits & Payments

No Deposit? What's the catch?

Fair question. It’s not every day a travel company doesn’t ask for money up front.

Here’s the deal – we’re more interested in making sure the tour is a good fit for you than grabbing your card details. That means checking it suits your travel style, expectations, and the group vibe. And of course, making sure a vegan group tour is what you’re really looking for.

You can reserve your spot for free for up to 7 days. No payment. No card details. Just your name and email so we can hold your place.

If you’d like, we’ll offer a quick call or video chat during that time to answer any questions and help you feel confident about the choice. No pressure. No spam. Just the option of a proper chat if it helps.

When do I pay a deposit – and how much is it?

Once you’ve confirmed your tour (usually after a brief chat or email exchange), we’ll ask for a deposit of $900 per person.

The rest is due 75 days before the tour starts.

Payments are processed in US Dollars, but you can choose to pay in other currencies on the payment page if that’s easier for you.

Need a payment plan? Just let us know – we’ll walk you through the options.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. If you’d prefer to spread the cost, we can set up a simple payment plan after your deposit is paid. Just let us know when booking and we’ll explain your options.

There are no added fees or hidden charges, and we’ll work with you to find something that fits. We just ask that the full balance is paid before the due date.

In some cases, we can even arrange for up to 50% of the full cost to be paid on arrival. Just reach out and we’ll be happy to discuss the options.

When is the final payment due?

The full balance is due 75 days before the tour starts.

Payment plans are available if you’d prefer to spread the cost – just ask, and we’ll talk you through it.

We can also arrange for up to 50% of the total cost to be paid locally on arrival. 

How do I make a booking?

How do I make a booking?

It’s quick and easy.

Want to hold your place for 7 days? No commitment needed.

  1. On any tour page, click the Hold My Place button in the right-hand column.

  2. Fill out the short form – no payment or card details required.

  3. You’ll get an email confirmation straight away.

Ready to book and pay a deposit?

  1. Go to the tour page and click the button on the right for your preferred travel date.

  2. Choose the number of people and room type – Shared or Private.

  3. Click Continue, enter your details, and pay your deposit.

At any time, you’re welcome to arrange a quick call or video chat (totally optional) if you’ve got questions or want help deciding.

Why would I need to chat with you before paying my deposit?

We don’t take bookings blindly. A quick chat gives us both the chance to check that the tour suits your expectations, ask any questions, raise any concerns, and make sure a vegan group tour is really what you’re looking for.

It’s not about sales – it’s about making sure you’re happy, informed, and comfortable before you commit to anything.

What if I need to cancel?

How do I make a booking?

It’s quick and easy.

Want to hold your place for 7 days? No commitment needed.

  1. On any tour page, click the Hold My Place button in the right-hand column.

  2. Fill out the short form – no payment or card details required.

  3. You’ll get an email confirmation straight away.

Ready to book and pay a deposit?

  1. Go to the tour page and click the button on the right for your preferred travel date.

  2. Choose the number of people and room type – Shared or Private.

  3. Click Continue, enter your details, and pay your deposit.

At any time, you’re welcome to arrange a quick call or video chat (totally optional) if you’ve got questions or want help deciding.

Food, Diet & Values

Why don't you include all meals like some other vegan group tours do?

Please see our detailed answer at the top of the page in the General Info section. Or click the link below

Why don’t you include all meals like some other vegan group tours do?

How do you ensure the food is vegan?

We work closely with trusted restaurants, cafes, and food vendors that either specialise in vegan food or have a strong understanding of plant-based requirements.

Where possible, we prioritise fully vegan venues. When that’s not an option, we only use places that we’ve personally vetted or that come highly recommended by our local vegan partners. Our team works directly with staff to explain ingredient requirements, cooking methods, and the importance of avoiding animal products – not just in the food, but in sauces, broths, and oils too.

Your tour leader is always on hand to double-check orders, translate where needed, and help with any questions you have along the way.

We take this seriously – because we know how frustrating it can be to constantly explain yourself or worry about what’s on your plate.

What makes your tours vegan-friendly?

All our tours are fully vegan-friendly – no awkward questions, no compromises.

Every included meal is 100% vegan. We also partner with local vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants, so you’ll always have great options, even when meals aren’t included. You’ll get a list of tried-and-tested spots for snacks, cafes, and standout meals along the way.

But it’s not just about the food. We only work with trusted, ethical businesses that share our values – no animal performances, no exploitative wildlife attractions. Instead, we support sanctuaries, community-run projects, and responsible local operators.

You’ll also be travelling with like-minded people, so the whole experience feels easy, open, and genuinely enjoyable from day one.

Do you accommodate other dietary restrictions?

Our priority is providing fully vegan meals throughout the tour – and in some destinations, that alone can be challenging.

That said, we’ll always do our best to accommodate additional dietary needs like gluten-free, nut-free, or soy-free, where possible. Just let us know before booking so we can check what’s realistic for that specific tour.

If you have a serious allergy or medical restriction, we’ll be upfront about what we can and can’t guarantee – and we’ll do everything we can to support you.

Can I bring a non-vegan friend or partner?

Yes – as long as they’re happy to eat vegan food during the tour and respect the group environment, they’re very welcome.

Our tours are designed to be inclusive and welcoming, and we understand that not everyone in your life may follow the same lifestyle. What matters is openness, respect, and a shared mindset – not labels.

Activities and Itineraries

What types of activities are included in the tours?

Our tours are designed to help you explore each destination in a fun, meaningful, and ethical way – with activities like cultural walking tours, cooking classes, foodie adventures, market visits, and local homestays.

We don’t build the trip around being vegan – instead, we focus on experiencing the country through a vegan lens. That means every activity we include is carefully chosen to align with vegan and vegetarian values, avoiding animal-based tourism and supporting local businesses that respect people, animals, and the planet.

You’ll see more than just vegan restaurants – you’ll get a full taste of the culture, food, and people, without compromising your ethics.

How much free time will I have?

While we do include activities on most days, many days also include some downtime to relax, explore on your own, or do nothing at all. Our itineraries are designed to be full of worthwhile experiences, not crammed with back-to-back activities for the sake of it.

And remember – nothing is compulsory. If you need a breather, you’re free to skip an activity without missing the whole tour.

Do you include any animal-based activities?

No. We don’t include any activities that involve the use of animals for entertainment, riding, performances, or photo ops.

Instead, we support genuine sanctuaries and ethical wildlife experiences that put animal welfare first – not profit.

 

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Our tours are designed to be relaxed and accessible, and are suitable for most people. You won’t need to be super fit – most trips involve some walking, light exploring, and occasional changes in transport.

That said, heat and humidity can make things feel more tiring, especially in tropical countries. We always build in downtime, use hotels with lifts wherever possible, and choose accommodations in accessible locations so you’re not stuck walking up steep hills or far from the action.

If you have mobility concerns, let us know before booking. When necessary, we’ll do our best to offer alternative options – for example, using a taxi instead of a tuk tuk. In some cases, this might involve extra costs, but we’ll always be upfront about it.

Sustainability & Local Impact

Are GoVegan Travel tours ethical and sustainable?

We design our tours to be as ethical and low-impact as possible – without compromising on experience.

Where we can, we work with small, locally owned businesses – from restaurants and guides to transport providers – to help support the communities we visit. In some cases, especially with hotels, that’s not always possible, but we still prioritise those that treat staff fairly and have strong environmental practices.

We avoid animal-based tourism entirely and support ethical sanctuaries where animal welfare is the focus – never entertainment.

To reduce waste, we give all guests a free reusable water bottle, tote bag, and bamboo cutlery set. We also minimise unnecessary flights and look for lower-impact transport wherever practical.

Finally, a portion of every booking goes to animal welfare projects in the region – including Friends of the Asian Elephant Hospital in Thailand and Animals Asia’s Bear Sanctuary in Vietnam.

Preparation and Packing

What should I pack for my tour?

We’ll send you a detailed packing list before your trip, but here are the basics:

  • Comfortable, lightweight clothing for warm weather

  • Long trousers or a skirt for temple visits

  • A scarf or shawl to cover shoulders (also handy for sun protection)

  • Good walking shoes or sandals

  • Sunscreen and insect repellent

  • A reusable water bottle

  • Personal toiletries and any essential medications

Luggage tips:
Soft-sided bags or backpacks are more practical than hard suitcases, especially when space is tight on minivans or trains. You’ll need to carry your own luggage throughout the trip, so pack light where you can, and consider a bag with wheels.

Avoid packing heavy items like jeans or boots unless you plan to wear them on the plane – they take up space and add unnecessary weight.

For tours that include a domestic flight, the standard checked baggage limit is 20kg. Any excess fees will be your responsibility.

Laundry:
Most main stops have access to laundry services, either in the hotel or nearby – so there’s no need to pack for every single day.

Can I bring a suitcase or should I use a backpack?

We don’t have strict luggage rules, but soft-sided bags or backpacks are more practical than hard cases. Space in minivans and trains can be tight, and you’ll need to carry your own luggage – often up stairs or along uneven ground.

Bring what’s comfortable for you, but pack light where you can.

What travel documents do I need?

You’ll need a passport with at least six months’ validity from your return date. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa.

Visa requirements change often, and differ from nationality to nationality, so we strongly recommend checking with the relevant embassy in your country well in advance. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re happy to help point you in the right direction.

Do I need Travel Insurance?

Yes – we require all travellers to have valid travel insurance. We want you to enjoy the adventure, but your health and safety comes first.

Your policy should include cover for medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations. We strongly recommend buying it as soon as your booking is confirmed so you’re covered if anything unexpected forces you to cancel before the trip.

Be cautious about relying solely on credit card or bank-provided travel insurance – these often only cover parts of your journey or offer limited protection.

If you’re unsure what you need, just ask – we’re happy to help point you in the right direction.

What currency should I bring?

We’ll send country-specific tips before your tour, but in general:

  • Local currency is easiest for small purchases, tips, and street food

  • ATMs are widely available in most cities and towns

  • Cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but not everywhere

  • We recommend bringing a small amount of cash in your home currency to exchange on arrival, or using a travel card with no foreign transaction fees

If we missed anything, or you have any further questions, please visit the Contact page or simply click the “Book a Call Back” button, and we’ll call you back at a time that suits you.

If we missed anything, or you have any further questions, please visit the Contact page or
simply click the “Book a Call Back” button, and we’ll call you back at a time that suits you.

Lost your password?

Save your tour spot for 7-days