FREQUENTLY. ASKED. QUESTIONS.
The man who asks a question is a fool for a minute.
THE MAN WHO DOES NOT ASK, IS A FOOL FOR LIFE.
-CONFUCIUS
How hard, physically speaking, are your trips?
As one can imagine, our expeditions vary greatly in habitat, travel time, mode(s) of transportation, and tactics implemented to locate animals. Accordingly, physical stress is variable- though if a trip leans more towards leisure or hard-core, it will be noted in the description and as we prepare to embark. We also provide full one-on-one assistance when navigating travel to and from destinations.
What should I bring?
In most cases, think: pack light, backpacker-style (suitcases not recommended, but can be handled), everything you would bring on a typical summer-weather outdoors trip, plus: extra batteries, headlamp/flashlight, Deet FREE bug spray, environmentally friendly sunscreen/toiletries, and always… EXTRA SOCKS! For a detailed, itemized packing list please contact us using the Contact page- though remember that when it comes to gear, these trips are typically nothing special!
Does the cost include flights? What all does it include?
No, flights are not covered. In some cases, we may be organizing/covering internal flights, but it will be specified. What we cover: On-the-ground transportation, food/meals once the trip begins, guide services, lodging, and all expeditionary logistics. Hotel stays the night before/after a trip in town that are deemed necessary may be covered in pertinent cases.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we require proof of traveler insurance, which is often easily booked for $50-100.00 at checkout with your flight, otherwise there are dozens of great & affordable companies out there to cover your a** with!
Can we catch the snakes/herps that we find?
Yes, to a differing and evolving degree, we do safely & respectfully handle the herps that we come across in many cases to offer a chance for close-up photography of the specimen. Dangerous animals are only handled by guides and we will always put the animal first. If a snake is showing signs of stress or showing us that it’s had enough, we move on. Likewise, we do not touch any amphibians with bare hands, collect amphibians for photos, or enter foreign bodies of water before fully sanitizing our boots in an effort to mitigate the spread of chytrid fungus and other microscopic threats. In-situ (undisturbed) encounters are always preferred and sought after, but there are fleeting cases requiring the apprehension of an animal for closer investigation. On top of this, we often are in the field with biologists performing their own important research.
Are all of your trips herping specific, or do you offer more open-ended wildlife viewing options?
While our primary focus functions as a niche international field-herping provider, we recognize the global diversity in pristine ecosystems and that they draw more admirers than reptile-lovers- so yes, we have several non-herping-specific trips to offer, one such odyssey being Sumatra. Here we will be staying at a rewilding facility searching for elephants, rhinos, and tigers; among all of the other inhabitants enjoying the last of their disappearing abode.
Is it safe to travel to these places?
We consistently monitor the geographical, political, societal, & climatic state of any region where a trip will be ran. We also have expert locals which are far more in-touch with the atmosphere of a given area and advise us consistently. Safety is number one, and if for any reason an expedition cannot be confirmed to check that box, it won’t be happening.
Why do some trips not have day-to-day itineraries?
This is where the expedition part of our name comes in- if you’re looking to be a “tourist” on a manicured, handfed “experience”, please DO NOT book with us! For everyone’s sake. We simply do not know in some cases what we may get up to. However, for all trips, a lumpy list of guaranteed exploits that we plan to embark on will be provided for your preparation (ex: Waterfall hike, night-hike, caiman search, road cruise, visit Victoria Falls National Park, etc); and some expeditions will show a more scheduled itinerary, or certain time-sensitive activities we have booked. We as guides remain flexible to the wants/needs of you, and we ask that everyone maintain such a thought process to benefit the group as a team.
I have never been on a “herping” trip, am I qualified to go?
Absolutely! In fact, we’re here as an efficient means for curious naturalists and people from all walks of life to access safe, unfiltered, experiences in the natural world. Rarely do out trips consist solely of seasoned herpers.
Can I put a deposit down to keep my spot, and pay later?
Yes, but you will need to contact us directly using the contact form, and we require the trip to be paid in full at least 2 months out, in order to pay our in-country guides/logistics. Find the contact form at the bottom of this page.
How long are your trips on average?
Anywhere from 5-14 days.
Do you offer wildlife photography workshops?
Yes! But not currently separate from our expeditions. While on a tour, guides (and likely any other experienced photographers along for the ride) always take the time to help anyone wanting to hone their photography skills, and we will often hold short “photoshoots” in a controlled setting if conditions allow.
Something on your site is not working.
This site is a new design for us, and there are bound to be technical issues- please shoot us a message using the contact form. (found at the bottom of this page)
I want to go to a certain place and you don’t have it listed. Is that possible?
We would love to hear your ideas, and with the right amount of demand to make it feasible, there is always room at the table. Send us a message! Also, check back regularly as we’re always planning new expeditions and scouting new places- so wherever you have in mind may already be in the works.
What happens if someone is bitten or there is another type of emergency?
We always have at least one guide with a Wilderness First Responder, CPR, & Wilderness First Aid certification with the group for any number of emergencies, as well as emergency communication systems on hand in remote areas. As for envenomations, we always establish coms with the nearest hospital, and have detailed knowledge pertaining to the closest antivenom stores and/or care facilities. We also have pre-planned evacuation strategies for all conceivable incidents. Preparedness is step one to ensure that safety remains priority.
Can minors join trips?
As a general rule, no- not without a parent/guardian. There may be exceptions, so please message us using the form below.
If I order a print, how is it shipped?
We don’t use drop shipping, so we will receive the order, put it in with the shop, and have it sent to you from there.
Can you help with booking airfare?
Though we don’t include airfare in the price, the team is more than happy to provide assistance in finding your ideal flight and navigating the booking process.
Are trips refundable?
No, all sales are final for expeditions. However, if the trip does not happen because we don’t fill the required amount of spots to make an expedition feasible, a full refund will be provided.
Are prints refundable?
Yes, if we have not yet made the order. If a print comes damaged or does not show, we will attempt to attain a replacement from the source.
Do you organize private expeditions?
Long story short, yes. Get in touch!
Who do you donate 30% of profits to when I purchase a steel print?
We give to a myriad of smaller, less funded though equally important NGOs across the planet. This includes Fauna Forever (Peru), Sumatra Eco Project (Sumatra), Reserva Natural Heloderma (Guatemala), and the King Cobra Conservancy (SE Asia).
Do I need vaccines to travel to these places?
Each location is different, and while we must adhere to any country’s mandatory vaccination policies, the choice to arm yourself against optional diseases or viruses occurring in a given region is yours. We recommend consulting your doctor regarding the best plan of action for you.
