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What is the fee for trips that fall within April 11 - 17?
Trips that overlap with Easter week 4/11/22 - 4/17/22 will need to pay an additional fee of $117 per a person. The single supplement fee for this week also increases to $552.
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Is this trip guided?
This is a self-guided mountain bike tour, meaning no guide. GPS tracks with daily routes loaded in the GPS navigation system will help guide you each day, along with maps and directions. A Portugal Nature Trails representative will provide an orientation upon arrival to help you get acquainted with the GPS system, getting it mounted on your bike and answer any questions you may have. A mobile phone is also provided should you require assistance at any time (support is available 24/7). Supporting documents include pre-departure information and an information booklet (including maps, daily information, GPS manual, area specifics and recommended restaurants).
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Is a self-guided trip for me?
Self-guided tours are great for independent travelers and those who want an active adventure without the stress of keeping up with the group. With all the tools and resources at hand, you have the flexibility and privilege of going at your own pace. Trails are relatively straightforward and easy to follow, linking each town to the next and finishing at your overnight hotel. Navigation is most handy when entering and leaving towns. Depending on your skill level, we recommend starting your ride early so that you can arrive at your overnight accommodation well before dark (otherwise the hotel and local police might go looking for you), and so that you can enjoy the luxury of longer lunches, beach stopovers, photo opts and time to stop and smell the roses.
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How do I book my dates?
If you have dates in mind within the offered date range, please check with evo for availability. Please remember, although this trip is self-guided prices are based on double occupancy (two people sharing a room) and thus need to reach a minimum of 2 people to depart. (Private trip options are listed below)
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Are departures guaranteed on the dates I’ve requested?
No, please wait to make travel arrangements and book flights until you have received confirmation from evoTrip that your departure has been confirmed.
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Can I book a private room
Yes. This trip is based on two people sharing a room consisting of either one double bed or twin beds. A private, single occupancy room may be available at an additional cost of around $415. Please contact us if you are interested in this option.
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What if I get lost?
If you get lost, no sweat! We recommend going back to the point in which you knew you were correct (and on the right path), and try again. The Portuguese are extremely friendly and welcoming, so in some cases, just ask (or point). Part of the fun is exploring! A mobile phone and 24/7 support by our local partners at PNT are there to support you should you have any issues at any time.
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What happens with my luggage?
As you enjoy riding from town-to-town, your luggage will be transferred to your next overnight destination. Before departure each day, leave your luggage at the front desk for pick-up and a transfer to your next hotel. Specific instructions and pick-up/drop-off times will be given by the Portugal Nature Trails representative upon arrival the first day. Make sure to bring with you all that you need for that day of riding, expecting not to see your luggage again until that evening.
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Are mountain bikes included?
Mountain bikes are not included and therefore we highly recommend bringing your own bike, or rent. Bringing your own bike assures a perfect fit and comfort as you are already familiar with your mountain bike from home. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding shipping your bike abroad.
If renting, Portugal Nature Trails offers a rental of MTB FOCUS Whistler XT for an extra $268 total ($47 per day/6 days of riding). Bike specs include high-end Shimano SLX/XT derailleurs and RockShox 30 Gold RL suspension, providing a smooth and comfortable ride even on more challenging surfaces. Good hydraulic Shimano brakes and a stiff aluminium frame will give you the confidence and security to push even harder, while Schwalbe tires ensure a lot of grip and an enhanced resistance to punctures. All together, this mountain bike has everything you need to get the most out of a Portugal Nature Trails MTB Tour. E-mountain bikes are also available - the Cube Acid Hybrid BOSCH for $500 total ($83 per day/6 days of riding). Please inform us at the time of booking for more information.
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Is airfare included?
No, airfare is not included in this package. Please be sure to wait for confirmation from our evoTrip team before you make travel arrangements.
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Are there minimums to run this trip?
Yes, there is a two person minimum for this trip to operate. However, the more the merrier! For groups of 8+, a special discount of 5% will be applied towards your total trip price.
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Is this tour open to solo travelers?
Yes. This trip is available to solo riders. A solo supplement of around $875 is required to cover the cost of your own room and costs typically shared with a group. As this trip is self-guided, we recommend you being in great physical condition, a high level mountain biker with bike maintenance skills and able to follow a GPS navigation system.
If you are looking to join a group, we at evoTrip could potentially pair you up with other solo travelers depending on availability and interest. In this case, you should be comfortable with riding with other skill levels and comfortable sharing a room (twin beds). Additionally, arrival and departure times would have to be arranged to coincide for group transport. Please let us know at the time of booking if you are interested in this option.
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Where does the trip begin and how do I get there?
This trip begins and ends at the Lisbon Airport (LIS). A representative from Portugal Nature Trails will pick you up at the airport in Lisbon and drop you off at the first night’s hotel in Vila Real de Santo António. Likewise, on the morning of departure you will be picked up from your hotel in Sagres and dropped off back at the Lisbon Airport.
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Do I need travel insurance?
While it is not required, we always recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement if you are forced to cancel your trip for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to cover medical help, emergency transport, and/or theft or accidental damage while traveling. We recommend World Nomads.
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Do I need to be in good shape?
It is recommended that customers be physically fit and comfortable mountain biking everyday. This tour is not an expert rated trip. There are no mandatory jumps or drops, or areas needing extreme technical skills. There are, however, large rocks on the trails, some short (but sweet) steep downhills, exposure (riding near the edge of a long fall or drop off), and sections of sand and loose dirt. Other terrain consists of paved roads and secondary country roads, with semi-trafficked sections in and out of towns. If you have any further questions about if your skill level is appropriate, please let us know.
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Can I extend my trip?
Yes. Many people do, especially adding an extra day before or after the trip in Lisbon. Portugal Nature Trails can either give you some informal pointers, or play a more substantial part of your trip planning. Other common add-ons include Porto, Sintra or the island of Maderia.
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What are the accommodations like?
Overnight accommodations are within 4* and 5* hotels and villas. Accommodations are held at a European standard, with Portugese charm.
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Minimum age for this trip?
We recommend a minimum of 16 years old.
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What meals are included?
Breakfast is included everyday while on this tour and consists of a typical Portuguese breakfast varying from meats, breads, cheeses, jams, cereals, coffee, juice and tea.
For lunches and dinners, you can feel free to explore restaurants and local cafe’s found along the biking routes and within the towns of your overnight destination. Trying local cuisine is a part of the adventure and cultural experience, so we recommend tasting local dishes, beverages and specialties. As always, make sure to bring lots of water and snacks with you so that you stay hydrated, healthy and energized.
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Do I need any special shots or vaccinations?
Some vaccines are recommended or required for Portugal. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Portugal: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza. If you haven’t had these shots already, it is recommended to update your vaccinations. As always, we highly recommend a visit to your doctor or travel specialist for any international trip to be sure you get competent medical advice.
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What is the cancellation policy for this trip?
evoTrip upholds Portugal Nature Trail’s policies regarding cancellation. If you need to cancel, you will need to submit a cancellation notice to evoTrip and are subject to a cancellation fee. Cancellation of 90 to 30 days before the trip starts equals 50% of the total price. Cancellation less than 30 days tour start or no show equals 100% of the total price.
In addition, a fee for administrative costs of 5% of the program or a fixed minimum of $112 USD (€100) will apply. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS to this cancellation policy, including reasons related to weather, terrorism, civil strife, personal, family or medical emergencies or any other circumstances beyond our control.