Refund Policy: We'd hate to see you cancel but we know things can come up so we've created a policy that's fair to all 🙏🏽

• Cancellation up to 24 hours after booking a trip: Fully refundable.
• Cancellation 181 days or more before the trip start date: Loss of deposit; the rest of the trip payment is fully refundable. 100% of the trip deposit can be transferred over to a different trip.
• Cancellation 121 - 180 days before the trip start date: 50% refund, minus the deposit. Deposit can be transferred over to a different trip.
• Cancellation 120 days before the trip’s start date: No refunds are guaranteed. Credit for a future Heart of Travel trip will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

If you can’t make it on a trip but you find someone else who can go in your place we are happy to transfer over your dues paid to this person’s account. However, in some instances, there may be a domestic flight or another type of reservation with a third-party supplier that can only be transferred to a new person with a transfer fee. In this case, you would be responsible for the transfer or cancellation fee.

*For a more flexible and generous cancellation policy be sure to add Heart of Travel Trip Protection, available at the time of registration only. 

Guaranteed Departures: We know how precious your travel days and dollars are. If you register for a trip and we don't hit the required minimum of participants - you have the option to transfer 100% of the funds paid over to another HOT trip of your choosing at any time. Or, you can opt to continue with the trip on the original dates, however, the itinerary is subject to small changes, and there will be an additional 15-20% surcharge based on the original trip price for a private tour, which can be customized further if desired.

Single Supplements: If you know you want your own space please upgrade to a single supplement at the time of booking. If you are traveling solo but open to a roommate we will do our best to match you with another travel. However, if HOT is unable to find a roommate for you, you will be responsible for paying the Single Supplement charge according to each trip

First of all, don’t stress — it’s easy to manage. We recommend bringing a mix of cash and cards. Brasilian reais (BRL) are the local currency, and you can withdraw cash at ATMs or exchange a small amount at the airport to get started. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most restaurants and shops, though it’s good to have some small cash for tips, street vendors, and markets. Just make sure to notify your bank you’ll be traveling to avoid any card issues.

Pack light, breathable clothing for the tropical heat, a swimsuit, and something a little dressier if you’d like for dinners or samba nights out. Bring good walking shoes or sandals, sun protection, insect repellent (especially in Salvador), and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. A light rain jacket can come in handy if showers roll through.

We use private, air-conditioned vehicles for city transfers and cultural visits. To cover longer distances — like from Rio to Salvador, we'll take a domestic flight, which is quick and comfortable. All the logistics are arranged for you so you can relax and enjoy the journey.

This is an easy-to-moderate trip. Expect some walking on city tours, cobblestone streets, and visits to historic sites. It’s mostly at sea level, so no altitude concerns, and you can always opt out of anything that feels too strenuous. Our Trip Leaders and local guides are happy to adjust the pace to keep everyone comfortable and enjoying themselves.