FAQ
Practical questions about Escaperies journeys
Honest answers about how the trips work, who they suit, and what to expect. If your question is not here, write to me directly — I answer personally.
About the journeys
What is an Escaperies journey?
A personally led, small-group nature and adventure journey designed and guided by Rolands Ratfelders — a conservation biologist and expedition guide. Not an agency package and not mass tourism. Each route is built around places where nature, movement and experience connect, with enough structure to feel organised and enough room to follow the day where it goes.
How is this different from a tour package?
A package optimises for volume and a fixed script. These journeys optimise for a small group, a route I know personally, and the flexibility to change plans when the weather or the wildlife has other ideas. You travel with a guide who understands the ecology of where you are, not just the schedule.
How small are the groups?
Six to twelve people. Small enough that everyone is included and the group can move easily; large enough to carry its own energy.
Are journeys suitable for solo travellers?
Yes — most people join on their own. The group is small, deliberately put together, and tends to find common ground fast. Couples and pairs are equally welcome; the rhythm leaves room for both shared activity and time to yourself.
What is included in the price?
Each journey page lists its own inclusions in detail. As a rule: guiding throughout, planned accommodation, listed activities and the logistics that hold the route together. Flights are separate, and anything personal is on you.
What is not included?
International flights, travel insurance, visas where needed, and personal spending. The exact split is on each journey page so there are no surprises.
Practical details
How fit do I need to be?
No athletic background required. These journeys suit active people who move regularly. Activities are pitched at a range of levels and there is usually a gentler alternative. If you are unsure whether a specific journey fits you, get in touch and we will talk it through.
What gear do I need to bring?
Every confirmed participant receives a practical packing list tailored to that journey, its season and its terrain. Nothing exotic — good footwear, weather-appropriate layers and the specifics for the route.
What about visas and travel documents?
Visas and entry requirements depend on your nationality and the destination, and they are your responsibility — but I will tell you clearly what each journey requires and flag anything that needs early action.
What about travel insurance?
Travel insurance is required, and it should cover the activities on the journey. Bring proof before departure. If you are unsure what cover you need, ask and I will point you in the right direction.
Applications & bookings
How do I apply?
Through the short application form on the Apply page. It is not a hard sell — it is how I make sure the journey is a good fit both ways before anything is confirmed. I read every one personally and reply.
When is the journey confirmed?
A journey is confirmed once the minimum group has formed. You will know in good time before any travel needs booking — I do not leave people guessing on flights.
What happens if the group does not form?
If the minimum group does not come together, the journey does not run and any payment toward it is returned. You are told early enough to adjust plans.
What about cancellations and refunds?
Cancellation terms are shared in writing before you commit, so you know where you stand. They are designed to be fair to both sides — this is a small operation, not a faceless booking engine.
Can I pay in instalments?
Usually yes — typically a deposit to hold your place and the balance before departure. Ask and we will arrange a schedule that works.
About the guide & Escaperies
Who runs the journeys?
I do — Rolands Ratfelders, a conservation biologist with decades of field experience, guiding personally. The biology is the background that shapes how the journeys are run; it is not a species-counting promise. More about me here.
What is the connection with Baltic Nature Adventures?
Latvia and Baltic guided tours are operated through my Latvia-focused brand, Baltic Nature Adventures. Escaperies is the international journey platform; BNA is the local one. Same person behind both, two clear remits.
What if the weather changes the plan?
Then the plan changes. Working with weather rather than against it is part of how these journeys are run, and a flexible route is a feature, not a failure. The improvisation is the craft.
Will photos and video be taken on the journey?
Sometimes, for the writing and for Escaperies. If you would rather not appear, tell me and that is respected — no awkwardness about it.
Still have a question?
If it is not answered here, write to me — I reply personally. Or, if you already know you want in, start an application.