Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT ARE YOUR TERMS & CONDITIONS?
Here's a direct link to our companies Terms & Conditions which every rider is required to read prior to registering for any trip with Big Mountain. If you have any questions you can email our office anytime.
WILL I BE REQUIRED TO SIGN A WAIVER?
All riders joining a Big Mountain trip are required to read and sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risks and Indemnity Agreement during the registration process (electronically) and also a paper copy on first day of your trip that is witnessed. Upon signing our waiver it will form in part a contract with Big Mountain Bike Adventures. Click HERE to review and or print a copy of our waiver. As well, once registered, a link to your waiver will be included in registration confirmation email.
CAN I RENT A MOUNTAIN BIKE?
We offer limited high performance bike rentals at most of our locations. Please ask us for more information on what is available.
SHOULD I BUY TRAVEL CANCELLATION INSURANCE?
As soon as a deposit is paid all participants must get cancellation insurance. With it, for whatever reason - as approved by your provider, you will avoid the unfortunate loss of funds due to a need to cancel, which includes even a minor injury (keeping in mind this is an active holiday). Some cancellation polices also provide baggage loss protection - a worthy investment. Please visit our Terms & Conditions page for more information on our cancellation policy.
SHOULD I BUY MEDICAL INSURANCE?
Medical insurance is MANDATORY if participating in a Big Mountain trip. For more information on our requirements please visit our Terms & Conditions page. As well, in your registration confirmation email this topic is covered in a 'PDF Preparation Guide' specific to your trip. To be received and completed prior to the start of your trip, we will also ask you to fill out a 'Medical Release & Information' form with your policy details and general medical information. This information will be kept strictly confidential and referenced only in the case of an emergency.
WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR CANCELING MY TRIP?
Visit our Terms & Conditions page for more information on cancellation.
ARE THERE PENALTIES FOR LATE PAYMENTS?
Once an invoice is sent via our system for a confirmed trip and reviewed/received by a rider, there is a window of 14 days to make payment. If no payment is made and there is no follow up or contact from the rider - a 5% interest charge will be applied to the balance owing.
WHAT IF SOMETHING COMES UP AND I CAN'T AFFORD TO MAKE THE FULL PAYMENT?
We understand that life happens and personal expenses can come up in between the time you book your trip and the date you travel. In order to accommodate we recommend getting in touch with our office and discussing a payment scheduled with the ultimate goal of having your balance paid by 60 days before departure.
WHAT ABOUT CANCELLATION IN CASE OF A NATURAL DISASTER OR POLITICAL INSTABILITY?
Natural disasters including but not limited to; erupting volcano, landslide, flooding, wildfire, earthquake, droughts, major storm, etc. can occur at any destination where we operate our trips. Political instability can also occur in some countries where we operate trips making a destination unsafe to visit. Natural disasters and political instability can disrupt our trips prior to departure and during the trip. When possible Big Mountain Bike Adventures will inform participants in advance of any possible disruptions. In the event a trip is cancelled or an itinerary is modified for the group’s safety due to a natural disaster or political instability - Big Mountain Bike Adventures will not be responsible for loss of funds. All riders should have comprehensive Travel Insurance that covers travellers in these circumstances.
ARE ANY DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE ON BIG MOUNTAIN TRIPS?
Returning Big Mountain riders are eligible for 5% discount on the land cost for scheduled trips - excluding Private Trips & Guest Coached Trips. Another way to make your BM trip more affordable is to make payments towards your balance in the months leading up to your trip.
*Returning rider discount applies to scheduled trips' land cost only and not on additional costs such as single room supplements, bike rentals or pre/post extra's including hotels, transfers etc. Not valid for private trips or custom dates.
WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE? WHAT IF I HAVE SPECIAL DIETS REQUESTS?
The meals provided are typical of the region. Typically, all breakfasts and some dinners are included whereas lunches will only not be included if there is no opportunity to stop along the way. On each Trip Page's DOWNLOADED ITINERARY PDF. We make sure that everyone eats well, guaranteed. When you register for your chosen trip you will be asked about specific dietary needs or preferences. We aim to accommodate any unique dietary requests such as; vegan, vegetarian, allergies, gluten free, etc. If you have any questions - don't hesitate to drop us email.
HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?
Our trips vary in difficulty but generally they are suited for fit-intermediate (sport level) to expert riders. A fit-intermediate rider is one who can ride 4-plus hours per day, for several days in a row. Inevitably there will be slower and faster riders in each group but from our experience the differences in ability work themselves out: some will simply enjoy the view for a little longer. If needed, riders can elect to skip a day's riding or a portion of it depending on logistics. You will get more enjoyment out of any trip if you are in good physical condition. The best advice we can offer is to follow the training suggestions in our "Before You Go" pre-departure information that we will send to you upon booking your trip. Further discussion with us will insure that you choose the trip that suits your level of fitness and are ready for your adventure. Please read our Riding Levels Guide for more info.
HOW TECHNICAL ARE THE TRAILS?
The difficulty of trails depends on the destination and type of trip. You will find detailed descriptions by requesting more information on the trip or by contacting us directly. On all of our trips we set out to feel the freedom of mountain biking, not to scare the participants. We start each trip with a comprehensive riding skills session on less technical trails and progress from there.
WHAT KIND OF BIKE DO I NEED?
The recommended type of bike is usually outlined on the Downloadable PDF Itinerary found on each trip page. What you'll need will always depend on the type of trip you have selected. Contact us for more information.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
When you register you will sent a Preparation Guide for your chosen trip which will have a detailed packing list with items like: recommended layers, Gor-Tex, spare parts, type of pack to wear when riding and numerous other items specific to your trip. Basically all you need to bring, besides your riding spirit, is a mechanically sound bike, related bike equipment and personal gear.
SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT THEFT OR HANDLING OF MY BIKE AND GEAR?
Clients are responsible for the care and prevention of theft of their bikes and gear. Guides will aid in bike load and unload to racks and vehicles during the trip – it is the clients responsibility to approve methods of loading and also storage. If ever in doubt, we encourage everyone to talk to their guide or host and, if needed, agree on an alternative or ask to store your bike in your room. On all our trips we recommend bringing a durable lock for added security (even in your hotel room). Big Mountain Bike Adventures, staff and partners are not responsible for lost or stolen bikes, bags or personal items.
WHAT KIND OF ACCOMMODATION CAN I EXPECT?
We use a variety of accommodations on our trips: family-run rustic mountain chalets, 2-4-star hotels, small-town motels and wilderness lodges. We choose our lodging based on comfort and location. In cities, we are often located in or near the old center part of town, while in the mountains we look for a nice view and the proximity to singletrack. Where available, a single supplement fee is required for those who ask for single accommodation.
WHAT IS THE GROUP SIZE AND ELIGIBILITY?
Depending on the destination and itinerary - our groups are typically between 4 and 12 participants, with 1-2 guides per group. Often, a third guide will provide extra support during the trip. Our groups are kept small so that we can ensure every participant is well looked after. Small groups mean riders can give each other space, yet be sure that everyone is on the right track. Participants must be 18 and over, unless accompanied by an adult.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN MY TRIP?
Included on all trips: expert leadership, accommodation, designated meals (outlined for each trip), airport transfers on scheduled days (or as noted on each trip page), gratuities for anything apart of your itinerary and detailed 'Trip Preparation Guide' for your specific trip. A variety of transportation types are also included depending on the trip - for example: trains, ski lifts, float plane, helicopter, and shuttle vehicles.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN MY TRIP?
Not included on trips: your bike and bike riding equipment, airfare, excess baggage charges, insurance of any kind, optional tipping for guides and local staff and items of a personal nature: snacks, alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc. We recommend that participants budget for $20-50 USD extra spending per day. Check out the 'Downloadable PDF Itineraries' on each trip page specific to each destination for complete list of what is or is not included. World Nomads is Big Mountain Bike adventures Travel Insurance partner.
CAN YOU HELP ME WITH MY PRE AND POST TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS OR AIRFARE?
International airfare (and associated costs) to your trips starting or ending place is not included nor organized by Big Mountain. We can however assist with extra hotel nights, bike bag storage or revised airport transfers if you wish to extend your trip before or after the Big Mountain adventure.
WHAT KIND OF INFORMATION WILL I RECEIVE TO PREPARE FOR MY TRIP?
Once registered Big Mountain riders will receive a detailed pre-departure 'Trip Preparation Guide' specific to the trip. It covers important information like: trip planning timeline, recommendd packing list, tips on traveling with your bike, insurance requirements and helpful information according to your destination to ensure that you are well prepared for the adventure ahead. We also recommend reading up on your chosen destination using the Internet or travel guide books.
WHO ARE THE GUIDES?
We know how important good leaders are in the enjoyment and success of a trip. We are proud to offer the best leaders available in all our destinations. They are the link to unforgettable riding, new cultures and great experiences. You will learn more from them than any guidebook. Their riding expertise, enthusiasm, language skills, environmental appreciation, cultural understanding, and safety training are unparalleled. Besides showing you secret singletrack, they will make sure your trip runs smoothly and safely.
CAN I BRING MY BIKE ON THE PLANE?
Yes. Most airlines will charge additional fees for bikes. Ensure that you review the airline's policy before finalizing any bookings. We will send you detailed information on tips for packing your bike in our Trip Preparation Guide specific to your trip.
CAN YOU PROVIDE ME WITH A REFERENCE FROM SOMEONE WHO HAS TAKEN THE TRIP THAT IM INTERESTED IN?
Absolutely. We will be happy to give you contact information of past riders for trip you're interest.
HOW LONG WILL WE BE RIDING FOR EACH DAY?
You'll typically spend four to five to as much as seven hours on your bike each day depending on the trip and particular day. Please visit our Riding Level Guide for more information on different skill and fitness ratings as listed on various trip pages.
WHO TRAVELS WITH BIG MOUNTAIN?
Most of the participants range between 30 and 50 years of age. Older and younger travelers are also on our trips. You'll meet solo travelers and couples on your trip who represent a diversity of interests and occupations and share a common love for mountain biking, the outdoors and adventure travel. Big Mountain riders come from all over the world.
IF I AM TRAVELING ALONE, CAN I HAVE A PRIVATE ROOM OR WILL YOU MATCH ME WITH A ROOMMATE?
A limited number of single rooms are available on most trips for a supplemental fee. Please inquire with Big Mountain when signing up for your trip and let us know if you want to add the single supplement. If you do not request a single room we will then match you up with a roommate of the same gender.
HOW LONG HAS BIG MOUNTAIN BEEN IN BUSINESS AND WHO OWNS THE COMPANY?
Big Mountain Bike Adventures was founded in 2001 by Chris Winter. Chris' family operates the second oldest European bike tour company in North America, Cycleventures Bicycle Tours. Cycleventures boasts over 55 different routes throughout Europe and the world. They have been bringing clients to Europe since 1971.