Japan
9 days, 6+ races, countless adventures!
OVERVIEW
MAP & ITINERARY
WHAT TO EXPECT
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
BOOK YOUR TRIP
FAQ
Run with the Rising Sun
We're flying across the Pacific to a country with deep cultural roots, remarkable natural landscapes, and state-of-the-art technologies. Run through history and diverse landscapes as we explore peaceful forests, quiet bamboo groves, and reflections of Mount Fuji in the calm surface of Lake Kawaguchi. Marvel at magnificent shrines and temples that are intricately carved and colorfully painted.
Fill your heart with memories, your eyes with wonder, and your belly with delicious food!
TRIP DETAILS:
- Daily afternoon activities
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included!
- International flight not included
- Arrive/depart: Tokyo airport
- 9 days/8 nights all-inclusive trip
- Guided trail runs and hikes (7-12K each)
Trip Highlights:
See Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in one trip
Journey through Kyoto's famous Fushimi Inari shrine
Get hands-on at a traditional craft workshop
Taste the regional flavors of Japan
Glimpse Mt. Fuji on your run
Experience a traditional Japanese onsen
"...you're guaranteed to leave with tired legs and a full heart."
- 2022 Global Adventurer
Meet Your Host Country: Japan
At first, many of us associate Japan with next-gen technology and the neon landscape of mega-cities like Tokyo. However, Japan is also a natural wonderland with 34 national parks spread across its four main islands. As beloved for the snow-capped Mount Fuji as it is for serene forests and surfer-friendly beaches, there's no limit to what you can discover here.
CAPITAL
Tokyo
LANGUAGE
Japanese
CURRENCY
Yen
WEATHER
Mar: 57° / 41°
Oct: 70° / 60°
LANDSCAPE
Lush forests and soaring mountains
KNOWN FOR
2020 Summer Olympics, Nintendo, and so much more
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
Who Goes On A Global Adventure?
Solo Travelers
connect with your curiosity
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
Entertain novelty
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
embolden your heart
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
Japan Itinerary
Please note that this is an example of activities and quality stays you will enjoy with us. Changes may occur based on weather, logistics, and new opportunities. We will always search for comparable alternatives when a change is made.
Scroll to explore!
Adventure Overview
- Day 1: Welcome to Tokyo
- Day 2: Hakone
- Day 3: Hakone
- Day 4: Kawaguchi
- Day 5: Kyoto
- Day 6: Kyoto
- Day 7: Nara
- Day 8: Osaka
- Day 9: Depart from Osaka
Saturday (Day 1): Welcome to Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo — one of the busiest cities in the world! We'll start our trip together here before venturing to quieter parts of the country. We will be here for one night only, so if you want to experience the excitement and diversity of this incredible city, we recommend arriving to Tokyo a few days early so that you can explore.
Start planning your time in Tokyo by visiting our blog for ideas of things to do.
- Welcome dinner & orientation
- Shinagawa Prince Hotel
- Arrive in Tokyo, Japan
- Event check-in: approx. 4:30pm
Planning your travel? Click here to check out Plan Your Travel tab for more details.
Sunday (Day 2): Experience Tradition in Hakone
This morning, we're running in Tokyo at Odaiba Park, part of a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. The name of this island comes from the Japanese word daiba which means "fort," and islands like this one were built in the late Edo Period to protect Tokyo from possible attacks. Pretty cool, huh!
After our run, we'll have lunch before we embark for Hakone by bus. Take a snooze during the ride if you'd like. When we arrive in Hakone, we'll enjoy a Japanese woodworking experience. This experience highlights Yosegi-zaiku, a craft that originated during the Edo period. In this intricate craft, woodworkers use different wood grains and textures to create beautiful mosaic designs.
Afterward, we head to our hotel to relax and recharge before dinner.
- Japanese woodworking
- Odaiba Park Run (8km)
- Hotel Tenseien
- Hakone, Japan
Monday (Day 3): Enjoy the waters of Lake Ashinoko
Rise and shine! We've got an early morning, but you can snag a few minutes of shut-eye on the ride to our run at Ashinoko. This run is mostly flat, but challenging because of thick grass and possible run. Don't worry, it'll be fun and we have lunch right after the race!
Then, we travel to Hakone for an afternoon of activities. We'll visit Hakone Shrine and ride a unique boat across Lake Ashinoko. On the other side of the lake, we'll ride the famous "Hakone Ropeway" to get a bird's eye view of the local hot springs.
- Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashinoko boat ride, Hakone ropeway
- Lake Ashinoko Run (10.3km)
- Gotemba Colecton Hotel
- Hakone, Japan
Tuesday (Day 4): Meet Volcanic Forests & Ice Caves
Today's run takes us to the western shore of Lake Ashinoko where we'll run under the gaze of Mount Mikuni. This trail may challenge you with its uneven terrain and elevation gain, but take it easy, enjoy the views and get ready for the downhill finish! Afterward, we'll drive to Yamanakako for lunch. Yamanakako is where you'll have a chance to see Mt. Fuji if the weather cooperates!
In the afternoon, we are guided through the mesmerizing Aokigahara Forest where our guide shows us how the forest's landscape and plants were influenced by ancient eruptions from Mount Fuji. Then, we wander into a volcanically formed cave complete with natural ice formations.
Following the tour, we'll eat dinner as a group before settling into our hotel in Kawaguchi for the night.
- Aokigahara forest, Narusawa ice caves
- Mount Mikuni Run (6.7km)
- Toyoko Inn Fuji Kawaguchiko
- Kawaguchi, Japan
Wednesday (Day 5): Taking the Bullet Train to Kyoto
After back-to-back days of challenging runs, we're taking it easy with a paved run by Lake Kawaguchi. Afterward, clean up and get ready to board the train; we're riding a bullet train to Kyoto! Your one way ticket for this train ride is included as part of your registration.
When we arrive in Kyoto, we'll take a bus to our hotel where you can decompress for about an hour until dinnertime. We'll have dinner as a group at Tonshabu Torataro.
- Shinkansen bullet train, free time in Kyoto
- Lake Kawaguchi run (6.1km)
- Hotel S-Peria
- Kyoto, Japan
Thursday (Day 6): Fushimi Inari Shrine + a "choose your own adventure" in Kyoto
Today we'll shift gears from the modern technology of the train to the tranquility of bamboo forests as we run through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Get your cameras ready for the uniquely lush greenery and enjoy the morning running through this new landscape. The forest serenity continues as we visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Its thousands of red gates cast a warm morning glow on the pathways that carry our feet.
Afterward, the rest of the day is yours to explore! We can help you book a multitude of cultural experiences like a Japanese tea ceremony, a chance to try on traditional Kimonos, shrine and temple tours (there are over 1,600 in Kyoto!), and more!
You'll be eating lunch and dinner of your own choosing today. This is a great opportunity to enjoy sushi, ramen, or stop by an izakaya, or Japanese pub, for a local beer and yakiniku (grilled meats).
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari shrine, free time
- Bamboo Forest Run (5.3km)
- Lunch and dinner on your own
- Hotel S-Peria
- Kyoto, Japan
Friday (Day 7): Heading to Nara
This morning we head out for a brief ride to the small city of Nara. When we arrive, we'll enjoy a park run which ends near Todaiji Temple and one of Japan's largest bronze statues of Buddha.
Nara is known for its deer and we'll have a chance to meet and feed these cute little guys in Nara Park. With over 1,000 deer in the city they have become a symbol of the city and are a designated national treasure. We'll end our time here with a picnic lunch before we depart for Osaka. In Osaka, we'll enjoy Japanese barbecue (yakiniku) to sample classic grilled meats!
- Todaiji Temple, Nara Deer Park
- Nara Deer Park Run (7.7km)
- Hiyori Hotel
- Nara to Osaka, Japan
Saturday (Day 8): Osaka
We'll start tour last day off with a morning run at Osaka Castle. Afterward, we will tour this majestic wonder to learn about the important role the castle played in uniting Japan in the sixteenth century.
Lunch follows our visit and then the rest of the day is yours to explore the area! Try takyoaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki for some local favorites. We will reconvene for our farewell dinner as we reflect on a week of joyful memories!
- Osaka Castle grounds
- Run TBD
- Hiyori Hotel
- Osaka, Japan
Sunday (Day 9): Depart from Osaka
All good things must come to an end. You’re free to move on to your next adventure anytime on Sunday, whether that’s a flight back home or carrying on for more travel.
Though this trip finishes in Osaka, we recommend flying out from Tokyo. You can reach Tokyo from Osaka via a short domestic flight (1 hour) or a trip on the bullet train (3 hours)!
Planning your travel? Check out the Plan Your Travel tab for more info!
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
Get some insight on how a Global Adventure works from booking to farewells.
Quick Planning Guide
- 1 month before your trip: We'll send packing info, weather updates, and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Japan in the spring and autumn is temperate. Pack layers and rain gear!
- Bring some yen for souvenirs and snacks.
- Avg. 50-75 people per trip
Culture Kick Trip
While all Global Adventures include daily trail runs, this trip focuses on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sites, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure! After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, a detailed trip itinerary, and more!
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you a welcome packet with swag one month before your trip.
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices.
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance that covers you starting 3 months before your to keep you protected from trip cancellation. Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once registered, you'll have a traveler profile with us in RunSignup. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
While each adventure is unique, the info below captures the daily schedule of a typical Global Adventure.
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
We'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh outfit and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun like glacier treks, rock-climbing, kayaking, and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Foods You Might Try
Japan is home to an abundance of seasonal and regional dishes - some known the world over and others that may be new to you! We'll introduce you to some of the most popular dishes in each area we visit, but there's too much food to try it all together. Here's a quick guide to some dishes you might try on your own while running through Japan:
sashimi / sushi
Sashimi and sushi are prepared differently in each region to highlight the local ingredients. Expect a range of fresh seafood, vegetables, egg, and more.
Popular: toro (fatty tuna), maguro (tuna), ebi (shrimp), and samon (salmon)
Vegetarian: kappa-makie (cucumber), takuan-maki (daikon radish)
ramen
Ramen comes in every form imaginable - from 7-11 to Michelin star restaurants. In it's most basic form, ramen is a soup of egg noodles in a pork, seafood, or miso broth.
Popular: Shoyu (soy sauce), shio (salt & chicken), tonkotsu (pork)
Vegetarian*: Miso (soybean paste)
*Some vegetarian dashis, or broths, will still have meat in the dish. Always ask your server before ordering!
katsudon
Katsu refers to breaded cutlets, often served with cabbage or over a bowl of rice. This is a classic comfort food and perfect for a post-trail run meal.
Popular: Tonkatsu (pork), torikatsu (chicken)
Vegetarian: Yubakatsu (tofu skin)
yakinuki
Yakinuki refers to any Japanese grilled meat. These are usually skewered, cooked over a charcoal fire, and covered in a sweet and savory sauce.
Popular: Yakitori (chicken) is by far the most popular and comes in many forms
Vegetarian: Many izakayas will have seasonal vegetables, so don't be afraid to ask!
Okonomiyaki
Local to Osaka, okonomiyaki is a layered egg, cabbage, and seafood masterpiece. Okonomiyaki are often prepared on a flat-top grill and served hot and fresh - don't expect to stay clean eating it!
takoyaki
Takoyaki are made with fresh octopus cooked in a delicious batter, similar to a pancake consistency. You'll see these spherical bites prepared on the streets using a special pan that takes real skill to master!
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
run difficulty & training
A typical Global Adventures trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs.
Japan trail runs
Exact trail runs may change based on permitting, weather, and the needs of our group!
Arriving early? We'll have an optional Saturday run at 3:00pm in Tokyo for anyone who wants to join! Your race director will send more details shortly before the event.
Odaiba Park Run (8.3km)
Route: Mostly flat loop
Terrain: Paved path
Level: Easy
Lake Ashinoko Run (10.3km)
Route: Flat point-to-point
Terrain: Single track dirt and mud trail and paved sections
Level: Moderate
We'll run through villages and past forest shrines on our way to the river.
Mount Mikuni Run (6.7km)
Route: Moderate incline loop
Terrain: Stairs, muddy trail and tree roots
Level: Moderate
You'll get road, trail, bamboo, and colorful foliage - plus, some mud! - on this atmospheric run.
Lake Kawaguchi Run (6.1km)
Route: Flat loop
Terrain: Paved, some stairs
Level: Moderate
You'll get a run full of serenity as we run around this majestic lake.
Bamboo Forest Run (5.8km)
Route: Flat loop
Terrain: Paved path, gravel, and some stairs
Level: Easy to moderate
We'll run through villages and past forest shrines on our way to the river.
Nara Deer Park Run (7.7km)
Route: Flat point-to-point
Terrain: Gravel road with muddy sections
Level: Moderate
This is short but has some challenging elevation through the trees. If we're lucky, we'll meet some deer along the way!
Osaka Castle Run (3.9km)
Route: Paved loop
Terrain: Paved path
Level: Easy
This optional run takes us through a city park at the steps of Osaka Castle.
Plan Your Travel
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the gritty details of your adventure.
Travel Details
Arrival (Saturday):
- Please plan to arrive in Tokyo mid-afternoon on the first day of your trip
- We recommend Haneda International Airport (HND), Tokyo, Japan
- Check in to the Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Depart (Sunday):
We recommend booking a round trip flight from Tokyo! Round trip flights to/from Tokyo are much more economical, and traveling from Osaka to Tokyo is easy.
Travel FAQ
How do I get from the airport to our Tokyo hotel?
From Haneda Int'l Airport (HND):
- Directions: Take the train from Haneda Airport and get off at Shinagawa Station. Walk 10 mins and you'll arrive at the hotel.
- Price: $1-3 USD
- Travel time: Approx. 30 minutes
From Narita Int'l Airport (NRT):
- Directions: Take the train from Narita Airport and get off at Shinagawa Station. Walk for about 10 mins and you'll arrive at the hotel.
- Price: $8-30 USD
- Travel time: Approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes
How do I get from Osaka to Tokyo?
There are two main transportation options, the train or a domestic flight, to get you back to the Tokyo airports for your departure flight.
Osaka Central to Haneda Int'l Airport (HND)
1) Train from Osaka to Haneda
- Directions: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen Nozomi (68NozomiTokyo) train at Shin-Osaka Station and get off at Shin-Yokohama Station. From there take the Airport Shuttle Bus to Haneda Airport.
- Price: ~$110 USD
- Travel time: Approx. 3 hours
2) Flight from Osaka to Haneda
- Directions: Take a domestic flight from Osaka's Itami Airport or Kansai Int'l Airport directly to Haneda Int'l Airport.
- Price: Approx. $150-300 USD
- Travel time: Approx. 1 hour flight
Osaka Central to Narita Int'l Airport (NRT)
1) Train from Osaka to Narita
- Directions: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen Nozomi (204NozomiTokyo) train at Shin-Osaka Station and get off at Shinagawa Station. From there, take the Narita Express 13 to Narita Airport.
- Price: Approx. $120 USD
- Travel time: Approx. 4 hours
2) Flight from Osaka to Narita
- Directions: Take a domestic flight from Osaka's Itami Airport or Kansai Int'l Airport directly to Narita Int'l Airport.
- Price: Approx. $70-200 USD
- Travel time: Approx. 1.5 hour flight
Pro tip: You can use Google Maps Public transport details or RometoRio app to check more information on the travel options.
Do I need to purchase a bullet train ticket?
Group train ride: During the week we plan to take one bullet train ride from Hakone to Kyoto. This ticket is included in your trip cost and you do NOT need to purchase a separate ticket.
Extended trips & post-event travel: If you booked your round trip flights from Tokyo and plan to travel from Osaka to Tokyo by train OR if you plan to stay in Japan longer than the event, we highly recommend buying the JR PASS. The JR Pass allows you to ride all JR trains. This includes bullet trains, local trains, and most subways. *Most of the trains in Japan are run by JR*
Do I need a visa for traveling to Japan?
Currently, tourists with U.S. passports do not need visas for short-term visits (up to three months). Because travel regulations and restrictions are complex and are subject to change with little notice, we strongly recommend checking Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs website periodically.
Does Japan has Covid-19 requirements?
Effective as of midnight April 29, 2023 (Japan time), all US travelers arriving in Japan will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test certificate.
Kayak.com also maintains a useful tool for checking international travel restrictions.
Training Prep
Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We do ask all participants to maintain atleast a 20-minute per mile trail pace during these runs.
Check out the Japan trail runs for more info on what to expect!
Travel Restrictions & Insurance
Vacation Races does not require a COVID-19 vaccine to attend our trips. Please check with the local authority of your destination country to see the latest travel recommendations.
Kayak.com also maintains a useful tool for checking international travel restrictions.
You may want to consider travel insurance for such an epic adventure! Vacation Races does not offer travel insurance at this time.
Packing for Japan
Spring in Japan will still be brisk. Pack warm layers and a good jacket. Autumn is temperate, so pack layers as your starting point.
Packing List: These are fast-paced events. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Upcoming Trip Dates
2024 Dates
October 19-27, 2024
9 Days | 8 Nights
$4,800
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
2025 Dates
March 22-30, 2025
9 Days | 8 Nights
from $4,950
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
October 22-30, 2025
9 Days | 8 Nights
Pricing TBD
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
Included in all Global Adventures
- Guided trail runs or hikes (7-12K each)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration
Will I need a passport or visa?
If our destination country is different from your country of residence, yes, you will need a valid passport. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel. It is your responsibility to verify that your passport meets our destination country's criteria.
Visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. Please reference the state department website of the destination country to determine if a visa is needed. Ultimately, you are responsible for securing all necessary visas and documentation required by the destination country.
Will I need a COVID-19 vaccine?
While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover. Please visit the State Department website of your destination country to up-to-date travel information.
While on your trip, our staff medic will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
How much does a Global Adventures trip cost?
All Global Adventures trips include the cost of daily hotels, included group activities and entrance fees, domestic transportation in the host country, and most food and drinks.
The cost of your flight to and from the host country is not included to allow participants to choose the travel options that are right for them.
Looking for the exact cost of this trip? Head to the Book Your Trip tab!
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
Can I receive a refund for trip activities that I don't want to participate in?
No. We cannot offer partial refunds for unattended components of the trip. Our travel packages are thoughtfully curated, taking into consideration various factors to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. This includes pre-booking accommodations, activities, meals, transportation and other components well in advance.
How can I complete my registration payment?
- Login to runsignup.
- Select "Manage Registration" next to the race
- Select "Add Ons" at the top of the page
- Update the selection for "Do you want to pay the remaining balance today?"
- Select "Continue" and complete payment.
How can I update my address in Runsignup?
- Go to your Profile
- See Upcoming Races
- Click Manage Registration next to the registration that you are editing
- Click the Shipping tab.
Trip Planning
Who goes on Global Adventure trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate most dietary restrictions with some advance notice. Please fill out your traveler information in Run Signup after you register so that we can make plans successfully.
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Exceptions:
Japan - in Japan, restrictions are harder to accommodate and are not culturally normal. As such, most restaurants struggle to accommodate restrictions beyond vegetarian, pescatarian, or dairy-free diets. If you have a restriction outside of these three diets, please book a 15-minute call here.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Are there any age restrictions?
These trips are mainly enjoyed by adults, and as long as you are comfortable with the runs, activities, and group setting, we'll be glad to have you! For parents/guardians who may want to bring their children who also like to run, we recommend children be 14 years or older.
For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
Will I receive swag items before my trip?
We ship all travelers a swag package about 3 weeks before the event. We are only able ot ship within the US at this time. You can update your preferred shipping address by following these steps in your RunSignup account:
1. Log into your RunSignup account
2. Under Upcoming Events, click Manage Registration for this event
3. Click the Shipping tab and update your shipping address
How much cash should I bring on my trip?
We recommend planning to spend $100 - 300 USD during your trip, exchanged to the local currency.
The truth is each destination is different regarding exchange rates and convenience of exchanging currencies. Once you sign up for a trip, the GA team will give recommendations on the best and most convenient way to exchange money.
Will we have phone service during the trip?
We recommend that you get an international phone plan in your home country before traveling. Many U.S. phone providers will offer an international plan that can be purchased online via your account.
If you arrive to the destination country with extra time, you may also choose to purchase a local SIM card or E-Sim. Airports usually have stores that can help you purchase and set up these SIM cards.
What kind of clothing should I wear after the runs?
After running we will usually be doing activities, we recommend always putting comfort first! Casual, active clothes for activities and tours, plus comfortable shoes to rest your feet. We also recommend one nice outfit for our celebration dinner or other evenings out.
Remember to pack light, we usually move a lot and carrying your bag to the buses might be a challenge if it is too heavy! 3 months out from the trip, you will receive a packing list to use as a reference!
What will the weather be like?
Check the weather here by typing in the places we go. Then 10 days before the trip, do it again so you can have more comfort in knowing what to expect and how to pack.
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will I get to shower after the runs?
With so much to see and do, most the days we won't be able to shower between your run and heading to lunch or an activity. We recommend packing body wipes and a change of clothes in your day bag each morning. There are typically bathrooms where you can freshen up and sometimes a lake or ocean to jump into!
Remember, a couple of weeks before traveling you will be receiving a day bag from us - among other cool and useful swag! You can use this day bag to carry your running clothes for clean ones and stay fresh during the day.
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails. They can join us as a fast hiker (20 minutes per mile) if they choose!
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
Not passport ready? Join the email list.
We'll send you updates about registration opening, price jumps, and future trip dates to keep you on track!
Still have questions? Our team loves to talk to new adventurers! Schedule a chat with us.
