RPN's ecotrips emphasize small-group wildlife experiences. Our maximum group size is 8. We believe that small groups are best for wildlife viewing, providing meaningful nature experiences, and interacting with rural communities.
When you travel with Red Panda Network to Nepal you experience conservation in action. Since 2012 RPN has led journeys-of-a-lifetime to some of the most biologically diverse areas in the world to visit red pandas in the wild. RPN and our travelers have given more than $180,000 USD to directly support community-based conservation initiatives.
As a traveler, you will experience the gentle hospitality of family homestays and tea houses, which are far removed from the bustle of mass tourism. We believe our nature travel experiences will inspire and inform. When you return home you will be moved.
Trip participants have the responsibility to select a trip appropriate to their abilities and interest; a moderate level of physical ability is needed on all of RPN's trips.
Your trip will run even for two people.
RPN encourages single travelers to join us. Single room accommodations are available without a surcharge.
In the unlikely event RPN needs to change an itinerary we will make reasonable efforts to substitute comparable accommodations. Should RPN be required to cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances, travelers will be granted a trip credit up to the amount paid, but RPN is not liable for accompanying purchase (gear, airline tickets, etc)
Bring a friend on your trip, they will qualify for a 10% discount on the trip price. We encourage groups of 2 or more as this guarantees the trip will happen as scheduled.
Your deposit is fully transferable. If you transfer to another trip or put your deposit ($500) on hold for a future trip before your final payment is due. Your deposit is fully refundable up to 15 days after you book. Only applies to deposits made a minimum of 15 days or more before your final payment is due.
Red Panda Network reserves the right to cancel any trip due to inadequate enrollment or other causes that make the trip unfeasible to operate. If this happens we will inform you 45 days prior to departure, and we will offer a full refund or offer an alternate trip. RPN is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by members preparing or the trip (e.g. non-refundable advance purchase airfare, etc.).
You may transfer one time to another trip without penalty by notifying us 90 days or more prior to departure. After that time, you are subject to the cancellation fees listed above.
RPN strongly encourages purchasing travel insurance to cover the cost of cancellation fees, airfare, and other nonrefundable expenses.
Part of the RPN ecotrip experience is staying in local accomodations. These homestays are welcoming, comfortable, and you get to learn about Nepali culture from local people. Homestay personnel are trained in effective sanitation and food safety standards.
Kathmandu: November/December 15°C / 8°C. April/May 28°C / 15°C
In the field: November/December 24°C / -8°C. April/May 34°C / -8°
Trip participants may not smoke in areas where others are affected (such as vehicles, public areas, households) or when encountering wildlife. This includes the use of vaporizers or electronic cigarettes.
Drones are not permitted on RPN trips.
In order to obtain maximum comfort with minimum weight please bring versatile layers to create the right blend of insulation, ventilation, and weather protection. Lessen the possibility of hypothermia and avoid cotton-based clothing.
You are welcome to bring electronic devices, though RPN respectfully asks that participants limit phones, tablets, or personal computers while in the field, enclosed areas where meals are, or communal areas where participants are gathering.
RPN welcomes families, but we do have an age limit, all participants must be at least 16 years of age at the time of the trip.
RPN's guides are local conservationists and professional ecotrip leaders who are passionate about red pandas and the communities that support them. RPN’s trip leaders are trained in first aid and they carry a group first-aid kit; you are welcome to bring a personal first aid kit.
RPN's programs specialize in tracking wild red pandas and every effort is made to plan itineraries where wildlife exists. It is not always possible to determine their precise locations which might impact the number of occurrences for spotting.
Gratuities are included in the trip price.
RPN occasionally takes photos or video of our trips for promotional use, participants grant this use without payment or compensation.
In consideration of Red Panda Network, Inc., a nonprofit public benefit corporation (“Red Panda Network”), allowing me to attend and participate in Red Panda Network sponsored events held at Red Panda Network and third-party venues (“Red Panda Network Events”).
I agree to the following terms and conditions (“ Agreement ”):