Health & Safety
Regardless of where you travel, safety is a top priority and we pay close attention to the safety information of each destination.
In case of any safety concerns caused by force majeure factors such as weather, we will adjust our itinerary according to local conditions.
Passports & Visas
We include the Tibet Travel Permit, but China Visas are required for US/Canadian passport holders entering China. Please see our Visa Information Center for details. China visa fees not included in the tour fare.
Upgrades
In the spirit of "Travel Happy" we do not believe in hidden fees - no unmarked options are sold on tour.
Dietary Restrictions
It's important everyone has a great dining experience while traveling with us! If you have a particular meal restriction (i.e. no lamb, etc), please let us know. We will do our best to oblige, but we regret some dietary preferences may not be available due to cultural differences.
Luggage Handling
Domestic flights in China have a checked luggage limit of 44lbs (20kg) per person.
Luggage space is limited aboard the Qinghai-Tibet train. Large suitcases should not exceed 25in x 14in x 8in.
FAQ
Q Will I experience altitude sickness? If so, what should I do?
A Please see special section on Altitude Sickness for suggestions
Q Why shouldn't I go to Tibet if I have a cold? What if I develop a cold in Tibet?
A When you are sick, your body’s immune system is weakened. It is more susceptible to high altitude-related illnesses such as pulmonary edema, which can potentially be life-threatening and not easily treated. If you develop a cold while you are in Tibet, it is generally not a big concern because your body will already have some adaptability and resistance to the environment. With proper medical treatment, the symptoms will gradually disappear after 1-2 days.
Q Is showering in Tibet convenient?
A Supera has selected the best hotels for our guests which will be equipped with hot water and private bathrooms. However, it is recommended not to shower often when first arriving in Lhasa to avoid catching a cold. Bathing while exhausted may aggravate altitude sickness. Once the body adapts to the higher altitude climate, showering is generally not a problem. Keep in mind the air in Tibet is very dry so many people can skip showering for 1-2 days without feeling uncomfortable.
Q What are some of the foods unique to Tibet?
A Local specialties include roasted barley flour, butter tea, yak meat, Tibetan noodles, sweet tea, and barley wine.
Q How is the weather in Tibet?
A There is a significant gap in temperature between morning to evening. Although most of our activities are concentrated during the day, it is essential to bring warm clothing and layers, especially as we ascend to higher altitudes where the temperature will be cold. The best time to travel to Tibet is during the mild weather months from May to September. The average temperature can range from a high of 77°F during the day to a low of 40°F at night.
Q What should I wear in Tibet?
A Due to strong UV rays, make sure to bring sunscreen. Short-sleeve T-shirts and shorts are not recommended. Bring warm all-weather jackets. Hiking shoes or sneakers are a must.
Q Cash or credit card?
A Cash is preferred when traveling through Tibet as credit cards are rarely accepted.
Q What are some worthwhile souvenirs in Tibet?
A Small trinkets such as yak bone bracelets, necklaces, and turquoise bracelets are excellent gift ideas. More valuable items include handmade Gyantse carpets, Medog stone pot, tapestries, Thankga, and Champlain wooden bowls. Tibetan medicines such as saffron, snow lotus, cordyceps are also a popular homeopathic specialty, but we do not recommend purchasing these items due to the possibility of fakes
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- Please note: security checks in Tibet are strict. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects such as scissors and knives on planes and trains, including small swiss army knives or fruit knives brought from home).