Health Protocols for Field Guides Tours

Our updated policy as of October 7, 2024

In order to stay healthy before, during, and after your tour, we have the following Field Guides suggested pre-tour and on-tour protocols in effect for all Field Guides tours, outlined below.

—We do not require mask-wearing on tour unless local regulations require it or unless your guide has determined that special circumstances require it. In such cases, participants are required to follow the guide’s directive.

—You should wear a mask as a courtesy when with the group if you are exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory virus, and your tour leader has the authority to require that you do so while in proximity to the group for one or more days while exhibiting symptoms. You should let the guide know immediately when you do not feel well. We will not require testing in this circumstance. In the case of acute illness, you may need to isolate from the group for one or more days before rejoining activities. In very rare instances, rejoining the tour might not be possible. **SEE BELOW

—As of December 31, 2024 we are ending our COVID vaccination requirement. We will no longer require you to provide us with confirmation of vaccination for COVID-19 prior to your trip.

—We strongly recommend getting a current flu shot at least two weeks prior to your trip, as well as keeping up with COVID boosters and all other vaccinations as recommended by the CDC or your doctor.

—We continue to recommend that you take steps to stay healthy for two weeks before the start of a tour—in order to protect your tour experience (and investment) and that of other participants and our guide(s). This means being careful to wear a mask (as much as possible) in airports, where the risk of illness transmission can be especially high due to crowding; and wear a mask during flights except to drink or eat.

—We strongly recommend you consider purchasing trip cancellation (including medical emergency) insurance to cover your investment in case of injury or illness to you or your family prior to or during a trip.

** If a participant is unable to continue on a tour due to illness, then all associated costs will be the client’s responsibility. We cannot offer any refunds for missed days on the tour.  We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance for cases such as this and that you are familiar with your policy. Our local ground operator, office staff and, if possible, our guide will provide assistance where necessary and to the best of our ability.