If your question is not answered here, please get in touch and we will be happy to help.
Booking & Payments
How do I book a tour?
Book online through the relevant tour page. Select your departure and room option, then choose either the deposit or full payment option. For a full walkthrough, see our How to Book page.
Can I pay a deposit instead of the full amount?
For many tours, yes. Where available, you can reserve your place with a fixed non-refundable US$1,000 deposit and pay the remaining balance before departure.
What does quantity mean at checkout?
The booking quantity is the number of people travelling. For example, if two people are joining the tour, select quantity 2. Tour prices are shown per person, so the total at checkout reflects the number of people in the booking.
Is there any advantage to paying the final balance by bank transfer?
Yes. Where a remaining balance is due after a deposit booking, paying that balance by bank transfer currently gives a 1.5% reduction on the remaining balance. This reduction does not apply to card payments.
When is the final balance due?
Final payment is due no later than 60 days before the departure date. If you book within 60 days of departure, the full tour price is payable immediately. We will send a final invoice once your tour is confirmed as guaranteed.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards through our secure payment platform. Bank transfer may also be available for the final balance — where it is, paying by bank transfer gives a 1.5% reduction on that amount.
What happens when a tour becomes guaranteed?
Once minimum numbers are reached, we confirm by email that the tour will operate. If you paid a deposit, your final balance invoice will arrive at the same time. This confirmation is also your signal that it is safe to book flights.
What if my tour does not proceed?
If we decide not to operate a tour, any payments you have made will be refunded in accordance with our Booking Conditions.
Tour Information
What is included in the price?
Each tour page includes a full inclusions list. For our garden tours this typically covers accommodation, private coach transport, all garden and venue entrance fees, specialist guiding, and the meals listed in the itinerary. Flights and travel insurance are not included. If you are unsure whether something is covered, please ask us.
Do your tours include flights?
No. International and domestic flights are not included unless specifically stated on the tour page.
How large are your tour groups?
Our tours typically operate with around 15 to 20 guests, though this can vary by tour. Small group sizes are central to the experience — they allow for a more personal pace and better access at gardens.
Is there free time during the tour?
Most itineraries include some time to explore independently — evenings, certain afternoons, or free time at gardens after the guided element. The itinerary on each tour page indicates when meals and activities are included and when time is your own.
What language are your tours conducted in?
Our tours are conducted in English, unless otherwise stated on the tour page.
Tour Suitability
How strenuous are the tours?
We rate each tour by activity level. Even our easiest tours involve walking, standing, some uneven ground, and time outdoors in all weathers. The suitability section on each tour page gives more detail.
How do I know whether a tour is right for me?
Read the activity level and suitability notes on the tour page. If you are in any doubt, please contact us before booking — we are happy to help you assess whether a tour is a good fit.
Can you accommodate travellers with mobility limitations?
This depends on the tour. Gardens, historic sites, coaches, and hotels can present accessibility challenges, and we will always advise honestly. Please contact us before booking so we can discuss your specific situation.
Are there age restrictions?
Our tours are designed for adult travellers. Suitability depends more on fitness, mobility, and interest than on age.
Accommodation
What room types are available?
Most tours offer single, double, and twin occupancy. Available options and prices are shown on each tour page.
What if I am travelling alone?
Select the room option that includes the single supplement. If a solo-share arrangement is available, this will be stated on the tour page.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
In most cases, yes. Please let us know your requirements as early as possible and we will do our best to arrange accordingly.
Travel Planning
When should I book my flights?
Wait until you have received written confirmation from us that your tour is guaranteed to depart — this is your signal that it is safe to book flights and other non-refundable travel arrangements. Please do not book flights before receiving this confirmation.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for all guests.
What travel documents do I need?
Requirements depend on your nationality and the destination. You are responsible for ensuring you hold the correct passport, visa, and entry documentation for all countries visited.
Contact & Company
Where is GardenTours based?
GardenTours is based in the Netherlands and operates specialist escorted garden tours.
How can I contact you?
You can reach us through our Contact page. We are happy to help with questions about any tour, room options, suitability, or anything else before you book.
Can you arrange a custom garden tour for a group?
Yes. We can discuss private or bespoke garden travel for groups, societies, and specialist audiences. Please contact us to talk through your requirements.