Here is what I take care of:

a) Planning: I will plan and organize the entire trip, including route, maps, logistics (transport, housing etc.) and food supplies.

b) Preparation and advice: Step by step I will guide all team members through their personal preparation, including:
– Choice of equipment (some of which I can lend)
– Physical preparation and training
– Arrangement of travel documents and help with visas (if required)
– Help with the choice and booking of flights

c) Permits and local help: I will organize local assistance and take care of any special permits required for certain regions. The costs will be shared by all team members.

d) Satellite phone and emergency device: I will be carrying and pay for the essential tools necessary in case of emergency (Iridium phone and SPOT GPS messenger).

e) Leading: I will make sure our journey runs as safely and smoothly as possible and that we will make good decisions despite all difficulties. Certain adjustments might be necessary during our trip, as that’s the nature of wilderness travel. On location I’m usually in favor of group decisions, but if push comes to shove I expect that the rest of the team will trust in my judgement and experience. Yet, I’m not the “guide” who’s main goal is to make “clients” happy – out there, we are a team and everybody is responsible for making our adventure a success.

Here is what I expect from all participants:

a) Commitment and emotional stability: “Join Me” travels are demanding endeavors that require a high level of dedication, effort and mental strength. Challenges and difficulties are likely to occur, we then need to pull ourselves together and stay focused. At times of extreme pressure it’s essential that all team members stay calm and optimistic – they have to be committed enough to embrace the challenge and tolerate the stress that comes with it.

b) Physical fitness: Please be fit! You don’t have to be a marathon runner, but good health, basic body strength and endurance are indispensable. Strong joints and muscles help with the sometimes heavy backpacks on treks.

c) Equipment: You don’t only need good gear, you also need to be familiar with it. I will help you choose and get to know the right equipment, but ultimately it’s your responsibility to bring all the items and understand how to use them. I might be able to lend certain items to you, just ask me if that’s what you prefer.

d) Insurance: You will need insurance to cover your costs in the unlikely scenario of an evacuation or health issue. I can help you choose one.

All group members cover their expenses themselves. I will help and advice wherever my support is needed, but ultimately you are responsible for your expenses. That applies to all costs for equipment, visas, flights, bus tickets, hotels, meals and so on. These expenses can be kept to a minimum, after all “Join Me” trips are also for those of us who don’t want to spend a fortune on all-inclusive holidays. You get the idea: You are in control of your own expenses.

Additional to your own expenses I will charge a fee for the services I provide (see under “What are my responsibilities?”). The fee depends on the length and complexity of the trip. The amount mentioned above is an estimation of all costs related to the journey, including my fee. Not included are expenses for equipment and visas.

Think about it, tell your friends about it and make your reservation. Typically I’m looking for 3-5 people to join me, so the earlier you reserve your spot, the better for you (and me, because it makes planning easier). If you have further questions, just ask.

Once I have answered all of your questions, I’ll ask for a deposit, which once paid will guarantee your spot. From this point on I will assist you during all necessary steps from getting the right equipment and booking flights to physical training and visa applications. The rest of the sum can be paid just a few weeks before the trip starts. Of course I will inform you about all of these things anyway when we discuss the details of our journey.