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ToursTransformative

Transformative Mongolia Tours & Trips

631 Transformative trips. Tours from 209 tour companies. 1,503 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

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Mongolia

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Wild Mongolia

By Intrepid Travel

premier

4.5/5 Excellent

100+ reviews

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Gandan Monastery, Ulaanbaatar

Highlights

Mongolia is a far-out destination, but you'll be in excellent hands. Your experienced drivers, manning sturdy Russian vans fit to tackle the rugged environment, will take you on a ride to some of the most fascinating places in the country
Whether by camel or on foot, experience Mongolia's incredible landscapes, from the rolling dunes just outside of Karakorum to the volcanic craters of the Great White Lake among the mountains
Two family ger camps allow you to experience nomadic life from the inside – a rare and rewarding cultural experience to remember
Situated in the valley of the Delger River, the Tsenkher Hot Springs offer the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long journey on the road

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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-26%$5,339

15 days From$3,955

Health Safety +

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Nomadic Mongolia

By G Adventures

preferred

4.6/5 Excellent

100+ reviews

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Gandan Monastery, Gobi Desert, Ulaanbaatar

Highlights

Contemplate the soviet architecture and influence in ulaanbaatar
Explore the ruins of remote monasteries
Share a ger with a nomadic family
Visit mongolia's ancient capital
See the wild horses in khustai national park

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

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-21%$3,239

14 days From$2,559

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Mongolia & the Gobi Desert

By Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)

none

1/5 Terrible

100+ reviews

Group Tour

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Gobi Desert, Ulaanbaatar

Highlights

Explore the Mongolia city
Visit to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Explore the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts
Explore the western shore of Lake Khovsgol
Experience camel riding in Gobi Desert

Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

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16 days From$4,595

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Moscow Ulan-Bator and Beijing Trans-Siberian Railway Tour

By Bravo Asia Tours

none

4.8/5 Excellent

24 reviews

Private Guided

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Very Easy

Trip pace

Full schedule

Visits

Beijing, Moscow, Ulaanbaatar

Highlights

The ultimate train journey that covers 2 continents, 7 time zones and countless views of mountain, lake and steppe scenery.
For travelers seeking for luxurious experience, there is option of the outstanding Golden Eagles services of the train.
Meet people of different cultures and countries in a train can be the most interesting things ever in a journey.
Visit Moscow for the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, Red Square, extraordinary metro system and Bolshoi Ballet.
Visit Irkutsk and Lake Baikal, the oldest, deepest and one of the largest lakes in the world.

Themes

Climbing & Mountaineering, Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Family Friendly, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Train & Rail Journeys, Transformative, Photography

What travelers are saying

"DO NOT BOOK WITH THIS COMPANY!!!! They SCAMMED ME AND MY FAMILY OUT OF 5,000 US Dollars!!!"

Trip dates & details

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23 days From$3,199

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Ancient Cultures of the Altai

By Blue Silk Travel

none

Private Guided

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Altai Mountains, Ulaanbaatar

Highlights

Enjoy 4-Day Horse Trek
Opportunity to visit UNESCO World Heritage Altai Petroglyphs
See Tavan Bogd Mountains
Visit Ulaanbaatar and Ulgii

Themes

Cultural, Transformative

Trip dates & details

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11 days From$3,950

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Highlights of Morocco

By G Adventures

preferred

1/5 Terrible

100+ reviews

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Atlas Mountains, Casablanca, Marrakech, Medina, Meknès, Sahara Desert

Highlights

Wander through ancient medinas and roman ruins
Ride a camel into the sahara
Spend a night in a mountain gîte
Enjoy traditional moroccan fare at a local home
Shop in seaside essaouira

Themes

Cultural, Transformative

What travelers are saying

Trip dates & details

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-26%$1,466

15 days From$1,087

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Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

By Intrepid Travel

premier

5/5 Excellent

100+ reviews

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Hakone, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Takayama, Tokyo

Highlights

Soar high above Lake Ashi and (on a clear day) get a glimpse of glorious Mt Fuji on a ride on the Hakone ropeway.
Be impressed by the efficiency and ultra modernity of Japan’s bullet trains as you zip from place to place.
Explore traditional Japanese culture in Edo-period Takayama and visit a folk village, tour a 600-year-old market and a enjoy a sake brewery tasting.
Visit the Peace Park for moving insight into the devastation of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima, then cruise to peaceful Miyajima Island where wild deer roam the streets.
Finish your tour with three nights in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital and home to literally thousands of temples, the Gion District where Geisha entertain the wealthy elite and renowned Kyoto sushi.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

Trip dates & details

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-26%$6,955

13 days From$5,152

Health Safety +

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Authentic Vietnam

By Exotic Voyages

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

4.9/5 Excellent

100+ reviews

Private Guided

Why we love them

A luxury tour company that designs extraordinary, off-the-beaten-path journeys across Asia.

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Mekong Delta, Mekong River

Highlights

Visit ethnic minority communities in the north of Vietnam
Experience the culture, history and beautiful natural settings in combination.
Relax among the amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ha Long Bay, Hoi An old town...
Discover the vibrant, lively, and colorful Mekong Delta
Luxuriate at the finest hotels, accompanied by the finest of service quality within the region.

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"It was such a pleasure to work with Annie from start to finish. Annie worked patiently with my very particular husband for a good month to plan a 19 day trip. (I think they bonded) We visited Hong Kong, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. EVERY luxury hotel was just over the top beautiful. We took airplanes, 2 cruise boats, and a sea airplane to visit each country. There was always a knowledgeable and interesting English speaking guide to pick us up. She planned interesting tours and gave us plenty of leisure time. She also texted us everyday to see how we were doing! At one stop we wanted to change a tour planned for another and she managed to do that as well......Annie actually met us in Hanoi and we enjoyed a dinner together at one of her favorite restaurants, then took me shopping for a silk dress....really! Thank you Annie for the best trip ever. I will highly recommend you and Exotic Voyages."

Trip dates & details

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-12%$5,672

14 days From$4,975

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Arenal Volcano Package: 4 Nights

By Project Expedition

none

4.7/5 Excellent

100+ reviews

Vacation / Holiday Package

Why we love them

They offer something for every kind of traveler and their excellent customer service is available throughout the whole process.

Lodging level

Basic - 2 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Full schedule

Visits

Arenal Volcano

Highlights

Experience some of the highlights of the Arenal Volcano
Choose from a list of great tours that include everything from caving to nocturnal eco tours
Hike along the lava trails of Arenal Volcano
Try the natural volcanic hot springs

Themes

Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Transformative, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We completed the three day tour with the glacier hike today! It was awesome and the sub vendor, Troll Expeditions, is definitely worthy of staying on the vendor list. 3 Day Blue Ice Cave + Golden Circle + Northern Lights"

Trip dates & details

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-29%$1,107

5 days From$791

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Cinque Terre Magnifica Hiking Tour

By Tourissimo

none

5/5 Excellent

75 reviews

Group Tour

Why we love them

They offer a unique way to enjoy a classic destination by combining active travel with authentic cultural experiences.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Strenuous

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Cinque Terre

Highlights

Portofino, with its tall colored houses and exclusive small harbor
Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino: Villas and Flowers
Abbey of San Fruttuoso
Oil, pesto, and many other Ligurian delicacies
Panoramic wine tasting

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"Great routes, guides, hotels and bikes!"

Trip dates & details

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-26%$5,393

7 days From$3,995

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South Africa – Wildlife Conservation Experience

By Discover Corps

preferred

5/5 Excellent

87 reviews

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Full schedule

Visits

Johannesburg, Kruger National Park

Highlights

Going behind the scenes of the conservation efforts to protect endangered species
Visiting an elephant sanctuary to learn about South Africa's gentle giants
Tracking the “Big 5” throughout Kruger National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Learning firsthand about wildlife conservation from experts at the country’s largest reserve
Reading and playing with disadvantaged children who want to learn English

Themes

50 plus, Birding, Cultural, Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari, Transformative, Volunteering & Community Service

What travelers are saying

"I recently returned from the Costa Rican wildlife safari. I was a bit concerned with Covid however every place was extremely clean and had places for you to wash your hands before you even walked in. This was a trip I was actually supposed to go on in 2020 however it was postponed, waiting so long the expectations were high. I was definitely not disappointed! Patricia our guide was absolutely wonderful, extremely knowledgeable and cater to our every need. I would highly recommend this vacation. Also everyone that I met in the community was extremely gracious and kind. The majority of these people work on tourism and unfortunately in the last year have not had any. Booking this trip would not only be an amazing adventure for you but it would also be amazing for the people in the community"

Trip dates & details

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-26%$4,718

10 days From$3,495

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China Express

By G Adventures

preferred

1/5 Terrible

100+ reviews

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square

Highlights

Trek along the great wall
Visit the forbidden city in beijing and the canal town of suzhou
Experience a local meal and the terracotta warriors in xi'an
Witness an exciting acrobatic performance in shanghai

Themes

Cultural, Transformative

What travelers are saying

Trip dates & details

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-24%$1,781

8 days From$1,349

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North India Revealed

By Intrepid Travel

premier

4.9/5 Excellent

100+ reviews

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Basic - 2 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Agra, Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Red Fort, Taj Mahal, Udaipur, Varanasi

Highlights

Travel into the Thar Desert, spending a memorable evening eating Rajasthani food under the stars in a camp set among sand dunes.
Cut through the chaos of Jodhpur’s Sadar Bazaar with your knowledgeable local leader, haggling for handicrafts and sipping some of the best lassi in town.
Snap incredible photos of the immense Chand Baori, a grand ninth-century stepwell in rural Abhaneri that extends over 20 metres into the earth.
Explore the centre of India’s spiritual heart – Varanasi – on a guided walking tour through the alleyways of the Old Town right to the bank of the Ganges.
India can be intimidating, but with your local leader there the whole way, you’ll be dodging cows, navigating market stalls, and eating from the best chaat stalls in Delhi in no time.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

Trip dates & details

Save this trip to your favorites or other list

-29%$1,417

22 days From$1,012

Health Safety +

5 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.

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Mongolia

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Transformative Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5 Excellent

1,503 Reviews

Write a review

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Excellent

1,188

Great

316

Average

Disappointing

Terrible

Tour-the COVID tour

May 2020

Written on

How to not go tour Morocco

I booked with G Adventures over a year prior to the tour. The primary reason was the 100% guaranteed departures and 24 hour communication. 1 week before I was to lea...

Tour: Highlights of Morocco

Selfish and Lacking Integrity

Apr 2020

Written on

Its my money not yours. No service means no pay!

I am so fully disheartened and disgusted by the handling of G Adventures with this crisis. We paid over 7,000 for our honeymoon tour in Morocco. It was fully paid fo...

Tour: Highlights of Morocco

Emma

Oct 2015

Written on

Extremely well organised, great mixture between organised

Extremely well organised, great mixture between organised and free time. Great travelling by train

Tour: Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

John

Oct 2015

Written on

The format of the trip enabled two

The format of the trip enabled two significant factors to coincide to make the entire experience overwhelmingly positive. 1. Our trip guide - Yuri Awanohara, made th...

Tour: Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

Fenella

Oct 2015

Written on

Great introduction to the country. Variety of

Great introduction to the country. Variety of activities and all well planned by guide Yuri

Tour: Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

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Transformative Tour Selection Trips

Transformative travel may sound like a lofty term, but it really is one of the best ways to describe certain tours. Keep an open mind!
These kinds of tours are often challenging emotionally. You may find yourself in the midst of poverty, or learn about some devastating effects on local wildlife due to human activity.
Discovering and learning about different cultural perspectives is a key component of transformative travel. Ask a lot of questions and listen closely - you may be surprised as your perspective begins to shift.
Being out in nature is another key component on transformative tours. Reconnect with your soul on a fundamental level through outdoor meditation and invigorating activity.
The world today is very individual focused. Particularly younger people are used to maintaining their own world from their palm - across social media platforms and other apps. Transformative travel will present you with the unique opportunity to challenge this way of life and participate in a community atmosphere off the internet - both with your tour companions and with the people you meet.

Additional details

Top Transformative Travel Companies

G Adventures Reviews

Intrepid Travel Reviews

Trafalgar Reviews

Exodus Travels Reviews

Insight Vacations Reviews

Explore! Reviews

Say Hueque Reviews

Brendan Vacations Reviews

Exotic Voyages Reviews

Project Expedition Reviews

Contiki Reviews

China Highlights Reviews

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On Travelstride you can find 631 trips to Transformative and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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