|
 |
Travel
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some commonly asked questions about our trips. If you have others, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you select the wildlife adventure that's right for you.
Is there an expert guide on every tour?
Each tour has experienced, expert, enthusiastic naturalist guides. On most trips, a WWF staff member also accompanies you. Local guides, guest speakers and other experts complement the staff and enhance your experience.
What are accommodations like?
Accommodations are carefully chosen for their proximity to wildlife and natural wonders, as well as for their comfort level and charm. Depending on the destination, land-based tour accommodations vary from rustic to five-star. Cabins on our ship-based tours provide all the comforts you need while at sea. Our brochures specify the type of accommodations you can expect, with additional details sent to registrants.
Is there an age limit on WWF tours?
WWF trips attract travelers of all ages, from young adults to active seniors. Although most of our trips are designed principally for adults, some programs are suitable for children over the age of 8. We also offer special family-oriented tours each year; check out our trip listings for more information.
How physically fit do I have to be to enjoy a WWF tour?
To participate in all the opportunities our trips offer, you should be energetic and in reasonably good health, with a spirit of adventure and flexibility. Some trips are more demanding than others and you can always opt out of a particular excursion should its pace not suit you. Call us at 888-WWF-TOUR (993-8687) if you have questions or concerns about the activity level on a specific tour.
Will I feel comfortable traveling alone?
Absolutely! Many WWF members participate on their own and enjoy traveling with a congenial group that is particularly interested in wildlife and wild places. You can ask to share accommodations with another participant. You also can request a private room, for an additional fee, based on availability.
What kind of food will be served?
Meals are generally international or American specialties, with additional selections reflecting the area where we are traveling, with local ingredients when available. Special diets can generally be accommodated with advance notice.
Is the cost of my trip tax-deductible?
A contribution to support WWF’s conservation activities is included in your trip cost, however the cost is not tax-deductable. First, to be considered deductible, a contribution must be completely voluntary. Since support of WWF conservation activities is built into the trip cost, it is not considered voluntary. Second, what the IRS considers deductible would be any excess cost of a WWF trip over the “fair market value” of such a trip. The prices for this WWF educational trip are identical to those that the tour operator charges for the same itinerary. Because our tour price is exactly “fair market value” as established in the brochure, we cannot cite a tax-deductible amount. Please be assured that WWF benefits from your trip registration even though no part of your trip cost is tax deductible.
What are optional excursions?
Some of our tours offer an opportunity to extend your trip on a pre- or post-extension for an additional cost through our tour operator.
What if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Non-U.S. citizens are welcome to participate in our tours. Please check visa requirements, as they differ country to country.
Do I have to be a member to travel with WWF?
The travel program is a benefit for WWF members. It’s easy to become a member and costs just $15. With your membership you’ll receive the membership newsletter FOCUS, a WWF membership card access to your personal WWF homepage and, on eligible giving levels, WWF members-only premiums. Join today!
How do I register?
To register for a tour call 888-WWF-TOUR (993-8687), Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST.
Once I book my trip, what information and materials will I receive?
Immediately after registration, you will receive a confirmation letter and information on travel insurance. Several months prior to departure you will receive Travel Guide I with information on booking flights, packing list, visa and immunization requirements and more. Approximately 10-14 days before your trip you will receive Travel Guide II with arrival information and reminders, plus a participant list, e-tickets (if applicable) and a final itinerary.
Do you have a recommended reading list to help me prepare for my trip?
We will send a recommended reading list several months prior to departure. You will also receive a complimentary, naturalist-selected book about your destination.
What if I need to cancel my tour?
Cancellation must be received in writing at WWF, by postal mail, email or fax. Cancellation penalties vary by tour and can be found in the terms and conditions printed in the brochure.
What is generally included in the price of the trip?
Each tour brochure outlines exactly what is included in the tour. Costs typically include accommodations and meals as indicated in the itinerary; group airport transfers and group baggage handling at hotels and airports; services of a naturalist leader; services of a WWF representative (with a minimum number of participants); activities as described in the itinerary; comprehensive pre-departure materials.
Do I need to purchase trip insurance?
While trip insurance is not required, it is highly recommended. Information will be sent to travelers upon registration.
Click the globe to explore WWF's work
