Run abroad with us
for an international mystery
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OVERVIEW
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WHAT TO EXPECT
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TRIP DATES & PRICES
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FAQ
Super Secret
An experience you'll have to run to believe.
Pack your explorin' shoes and book your flight. This all-inclusive running adventure is best enjoyed with an open mind and a spirit of excitement!
Adventure alone or invite your best travel companion. We're visiting some of the best trails and sights of this beautiful country. It's so exclusive, most locals don't even know about the spots we've picked out!
Leave the logistics to us as we coordinate scenic morning runs and mixed afternoons of high adventure and laid-back cultural excursions.
Here's what we CAN tell you...
You're Responsible For:
Round-trip travel between your home and our rendezvous point. Read more info.
Once you're in Houston, we'll have your tickets onward to our mystery destination.
Your Booking Includes:
- Rendezvous Point: Houston Airport (IAH)
- 8 day/ 7 night trip (Friday to Sunday)
- 5 trail runs and hikes (7-12K)
- Daily afternoon activities
- Covid-19 vaccination required
We Take Care Of:
- Flights to our mystery destination from Houston Airport
- Booking your hotel stays
- Covering most meals and activity fees
- Transportation between activities at our destination
We've got you covered with the things GA does best
Clear Communication
Your personal travel team will be in touch with you regularly starting 3 months before your trip.
Plus, we're just an email or phone call away if you have questions!
Expert Local Guidance
We believe in taking you beyond what you thought was possible.
That means you're getting a true backstage pass to a new country thanks to expert guides and off-the-beaten-track trail runs.
Quality Hotels & Experiences
You're putting your trust in us, so we've ensured you get top quality stays and activities in return.
Every explorer deserves to unwind in style!
...and here's how it works!
- Step One: Book your Super Secret Global Adventure
Reserve your coveted spot on our secret adventure. Then, book a flight to Houston (IAH) where we'll all meet prior to our final destination.
Before you travel, we'll send you a packing list and some hints about your destination so that you can be prepared for...well, anything!
- Step Two: Meet us at the rendezvous point by noon!
When we all meet in the Houston Airport, it's time for the Big Reveal. We're heading to...
Once we announce our destination, we'll all board a plane together to kick-off this epic and memorable adventure! Don't worry, this leg of our journey will be booked by the Global Adventures team.
- Step Three: Get lost with us on a week-long running adventure
You made it! Now, your only job is to chill out and enjoy a week of discovery — from scenic trails to tables of colorful food and everything in between.
At the end of the week, we'll say our final goodbyes and fly everyone back to Houston.
You won't regret a moment.
Meet Your Host Country: The Great Unknown
Meet the planet we call home - Earth. With seven continents, two hemispheres, and a climate that goes from frigid to fiery, you never know what offerings planet Earth will bring next. Apart from sending you a packing list and weather expectations? We're not ones to spoil the surprise.
Instead, we believe in bringing you to experience it for yourself. Come with us as we fill our lungs with fresh air and dive in to explore a small part of this big world - just be prepared for stairs :)
CAPITAL
Well, that would give it away, now wouldn't it?
LANGUAGE
Impromptu road-trips and giving gifts "just because"
CURRENCY
Laughter
WEATHER
86° / 77° in April
Ok, this one is for real!
LANDSCAPE
The peaks and valleys of life
FAMOUS PEOPLE
Life's greatest explorer - you!
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team In The World
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Adventures Built for YOU.
Group travel can be daunting, so we're proud to offer community-first adventures with smaller group sizes and inclusive leadership.
Whether you're flying solo or bringing your BFFs, there's a place here for everyone.
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure - even a secret one
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure!
Most importantly, there will be an email with travel details to help you purchase your tickets to our rendezvous point.
After these emails, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, and more!
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT to hOUSTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (IAH)
Your international flight is covered in the trip cost. However, you are responsible for getting from home to our rendezvous point and back. We'll send you exact details sometime after you book this trip so that you can purchase your own round-trip tickets from your home to Houston.
GET COVERED
A full COVID-19 vaccination is required by our team. In addition, we recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. We understand it may be difficult to purchase travel insurance for an unknown destination. We are looking at options to cover this cost for you. Please stay tuned.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once registered, you'll have a traveler profile with us. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Getting excited for your trip? Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
We'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh set of clothes and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun in the great outdoors.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll finally experience our secret destination all around you. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
Mystery miles: what to expect on these runs
Part of the joy of this trip is starting off each day with true discovery in the outdoors. While we want to keep that mystery alive, you can follow the guidelines below to ensure you feel confident joining the runs.
- Distance: 7-12K each day
- Dirt trails: These can range from muddy to rocky
- Minimum pace time: 25-min trail pace*
- Trail running shoes recommended (2 pairs)
Training: If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Elevation: This isn't a high elevation destination, but you should be prepared for elevation gains up to 1,000 feet on some runs.
* Worried about the pace time? This is YOUR trip, so you can always skip a race or two in order to keep your energy up. When possible, we will let you know of a shorter course route so you can join us at a slower pace.
not-so-mystery miles
Below are examples of trails we've run around the world. Use these as a guide for the rugged landscape and physical challenge you can expect.
Guacalillo Cliffs, Costa Rica (8.5K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 282 ft.
Easy to Moderate
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland (6K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 863 ft.
Moderate
Þórsmörk, Iceland (11.5K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 617 ft.
Moderate - hike when needed!
Laguna Hule, Costa Rica (8K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 1,053 ft.
Challenging - hike when needed!
Upcoming Trip Dates
The Super Secret Global Adventure will announce trip dates this summer and will be open for registration in October 2022.
April 2023
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms.
only a $500 refundable deposit due at registration!
Got questions?
Included in all Global Adventures
- 6+ trail runs or hikes (7-12K)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging in our mystery location
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
+ Included in your Super Secret trip
- Round-trip international flight from Houston (IAH) to the mystery destination!
You are only responsible for getting yourself from home to Houston and back. More details below.
Read the Registration Policies
Prepare for your trip: The Nitty-gritty
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the details of your adventure.
Travel Details
After you register for this trip, we'll send you detailed instructions on when to arrive at Houston International Airport. We ask you to purchase your own round-trip flight from your home to Houston. We take care of the rest!
All travel once we meet up at the Houston Airport will be taken care of by our expert team. We'll get you to our mystery location, from trail to trail, and finally back to Houston for your return flight.
Booking your travel to and from our rendezvous point:
- Book your round-trip flight from home to Houston International Airport (IAH). We will provide additional details after registration.
- First Day of Trip: Date TBD. Arrive in Houston by 12:00 pm on the first day of travel. We cannot accommodate later-comers.
- Last Day of Trip: Date TBD. Your flight home should depart from Houston after we land and pass through customs. We will communicate the exact timing after registration.
What you'll need for travel:
- This is an international trip! Please bring a passport.
- We recommend having travel insurance, but know it can be tricky with an unknown destination. We are looking at the best ways to offer your travel protection.
Pricing Breakdown
Trip Pricing:
$4,500 (double occupancy room)
$5,100 (single occupancy room)
Deposit:
$500 (refundable until 26 weeks before your trip)
Trips are refundable minus a fee until less than 12 weeks before the event. Please read the Registration Policy for more info.
Super Secret Policies
Due to the nature of this event, we'll have some special policies outlined for you. This is so that you know what to expect - and so that we can create the best possible journey to unknown places!
Join our email list to get updates on trips dates, policies, and travel details right in your inbox!
Packing & Prep
Travel Insurance: We understand it may be difficult to purchase travel insurance for an unknown destination. We are looking at options to cover this cost for you. Please stay tuned.
And remember - for group safety, all adventurers must have their COVID-19 vaccination. This will be required for check-in.
Packing List: These are fast-paced adventures. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Training: Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Check out the Trail Runs & Hikes section for more info on what to expect!
Super Secret Destination FAQ
Will you send us a packing list?
Yes! As we get closer to the trip, we will send you recommended packing list and weather expectations. We will also send you any other details you may need to stay comfortable on this adventure!
Will you offer travel insurance?
We understand it may be difficult to purchase travel insurance for an unknown destination. We are looking at options to cover this cost for you. Please stay tuned.
Will I need any specific vaccines for this trip (other than Covid-19)?
Ok, I am interested but still confused...how can I be sure that I understand all the logistics?
This is a new and exciting type of event for us to offer, but we understand that there's risk involved.
There is no question too big or too small for the Global Adventures team. We'll do our best to answer your questions and have you feeling confident, without revealing any big surprises!
General Global Adventures FAQ
Registration & Trip Planning
Will I need a passport or visa?
This is an international running adventure. A valid passport is required for participation. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel.
We do not anticipate that you will need a visa. However, visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. If you are unsure, please reach out to us and we will help you determine whether you will need to apply for a visa at all, in advance, or on arrival.
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Who goes on Global Adventures trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions for these trips. As long as you are comfortable with the runs and activities, we'll be glad to have you whether you're 12 or 112 years old! Some of our Global Adventures trips do involve alcohol-oriented events like whiskey tastings, so please keep this in mind.
What Covid-19 measures are being taken?
While much of these trips is spent in the great outdoors, there's still a level of risk with any travel. Here's what we can do to limit that risk:
First, all adventurers must be vaccinated to participate. We'll ask for proof at check-in, so make sure to pack a copy your vaccination certificate or have an image of it ready on your phone. Each country has their own requirements, so it's best to be prepared.
Second, we have a staff medic on each trip. Please let us know right away if you have any symptoms or just need a test for travel purposes. They will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
Lastly, staying healthy is a group effort. We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 25-minute trail pace on these runs. If you believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tends to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventured trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails.
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
Can't join us in 2023?
Mystery lovers can still join the email list for future trip announcements.
Still got questions? Our team loves to talk to new adventurers! Schedule a chat with us.