PLAY it Forward Trip-O-Meters are based on a scale from 1-5 with 1 being low and 5 being high. The various destinations involve different levels of physical activity, culture shock and comfort level designed to assist you in selecting the right trip for you.
Activities vary from light hiking, biking and sea kayaking to climbing Kilimanjaro, backpacking Patagonia and rafting class-5 rapids. All tours are designed to be leisurely though tours at full capacity can typically provide options for novice vs. avid outdoorsman. You do not have to train to participate, but we do recommend some level of regimented exercise prior to departure.
The level of culture shock is based on the cultural differences between American society and that of the country you’re visiting. Such things as gender roles, religious practices and rituals may differ greatly from those at home.
Some destinations may not appear much different from home while others may not provide running water or electricity. Meals, transportation and accommodations may not be as luxurious as you’re accustomed to, making a tour all the more adventurous.
All participants must be 18 years of age or older or the age of majority in their state of residence.
Outdoor activities and volunteer projects are designed for all ages. Support vehicles are provided whenever possible in case any activity becomes to challenging.
See individual tour itineraries for activity details.
We aim to keep accommodations community focused, yet comfortable, by seeking out eco-lodges and locally owned and operated hotels whenever possible. Accommodations with a local flavor are selected to enhance your cultural experience.
Comfort levels are rated on a scale from 1-5 with 1 being very rustic and 5 being relatively luxurious.
For details on lodging in each country, see individual tour itineraries.
Hotel accommodations are based on double or triple occupancy. Individuals preferring single occupancy must make arrangements with their PIF representative at the time of registration. Single supplement accommodations may increase tour cost, are pending availability and cannot be guaranteed.
Group travel tours provide a safe, fun environment for travelers to explore the natural wonders of the world. In order to maximize mobility and give our groups the most enjoyable experience, PLAY it Forward keeps group sizes between 10-12 participants per tour. Join our group as an individual traveler or arrange a group of your own.
Participants should bring proper attire and necessities specific to their tours’ activities. A complete packing list is included in your orientation packet or available upon request.
Every PLAY it Forward adventure will combine the elements of outdoor adventure and volunteerism, though activities vary among tours.
All necessary sporting equipment will be provided and is included in your land costs unless otherwise noted on your tour packing list.
Shipping your own outdoor equipment such as bikes and kayaks is not permitted.
Guide tips are not included in tour costs. Tips are based on your level of satisfaction though it is customary to give $10/day/guide.
PLAY it Forward offers adventure vacations with a volunteer component. We are not a faith-based organization and our adventures are not mission trips. We encourage people of all belief systems to participate in our adventures.
Since we believe that writing a check is not the same as building a home for a family in Guatemala, PLAY it Forward is in the business creating experiences that enrich lives. With the help of our non-profit partners, we offer opportunities to connect with locals that may not otherwise be available to the average tourist.
PLAY it Forward is a for-profit business. We partner with non-profit organizations in each country to offer support and resources to further their mission. All project expenses are included in your tour fee. We do not fundraise or ask our travelers to donate additional funds. Additional funding and contributions are encouraged only if travelers feel compelled to offer ongoing support.
