FAQ

MedTreks CME Travel FAQ's

MedTreks is a high-touch adventure travel company built by medical professionals. We design carefully curated trips with trusted local partners, strong attention to safety and comfort, and a team that’s deeply involved before, during, and after you travel. CME is available on most trips, but the experience is designed as a vacation first.

This FAQ answers common questions about MedTreks CME adventure travel, non-medical guests, activity levels, accommodations, course options, travel insurance, payments, cancellations, and our Kenya Global Health Program.

Last updated: June 2026
Reviewed by: Ari Rasori, RN, FNP-BC, Founder of MedTreks

 

What makes MedTreks different from other CME travel programs?

MedTreks designs upscale, personalized travel experiences for healthcare professionals who value both education and adventure. Each trip integrates accredited CME sessions with meaningful exploration, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional service. With small group sizes (10–16 participants), every detail is curated for connection, safety, and authenticity.

Where does MedTreks travel?

MedTreks offers CME adventures across all seven continents, with destinations including Costa Rica, the Galápagos Islands, Patagonia, Cuba, New Zealand, Morocco, and Egypt.

Each of our MedTreks CME Adventure Travel itineraries blends outdoor exploration, cultural depth, and opportunities to earn CME in inspiring locations. Many of our trips are special destinations that may not repeat every year. So, this makes each experience truly special and time-sensitive for those who want to join.

What types of credits can I earn on a MedTreks trip?

MedTreks courses are accredited through the Wilderness Medical Society (WMS), which is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians. Depending on the course taught, participants may earn a maximum of 10–28 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™.

Nurses may also be eligible for continuing education/contact hours through MedTreks’ California Board of Registered Nursing provider approval. Participants should always confirm acceptance of credits with their own licensing board or governing body.

How do the CME Credits Work?

CME/CE credits are available as an optional add-on for most MedTreks trips. Specific courses vary by trip, so we recommend checking the individual trip page for the course title, credit hours, and CME/CE details.

Available CME/CE courses may include:

  • Wilderness Medicine
  • Global Health & Humanitarian Medicine
  • Global Health, Wilderness & Travel Medicine
  • International Wilderness Life Support (IWLS)

During booking, you can select the CME/CE option when available. Some courses may include online modules before the trip, in-person sessions during the trip, and/or a post-course evaluation.

Who are the MedTreks faculty?

MedTreks faculty include physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, global health educators, wilderness medicine instructors, and wellness professionals.

Our faculty bring clinical experience, teaching experience, and field-based knowledge to each program. Depending on the trip or course, they may lead CME sessions, facilitate hands-on workshops, support scenario-based learning, or help connect the educational content to the destination and activities.

The goal is to keep learning practical, relevant, and connected to real-world travel, wilderness medicine, global health, and patient care.

Who are MedTreks trips designed for?

MedTreks trips are designed for healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, EMTs, and allied health professionals.

Partners, friends, family members, and non-medical guests are welcome on most trips. The experience is designed as a vacation first, with CME available for medical professionals who want it.

Because our groups are small and well-supported, MedTreks is a good fit for travelers who value thoughtful itineraries, trusted local partners, comfortable accommodations, and real human support before, during, and after the trip.

What are your accommodations like?

Accommodations vary by trip, but MedTreks chooses lodging intentionally, with a focus on comfort, location, safety, and overall guest experience.

Depending on the destination, accommodations may include boutique hotels, mountain lodges, retreat centers, safari-style camps, private yachts, or simple, clean lodging in more remote settings. We do our best to describe each property clearly on the trip page so guests know what to expect before booking.

We also care a lot about food. Meals are chosen to support the overall experience, with an emphasis on quality, local flavor, and thoughtful hospitality whenever possible.

Can I get my own room or can I share a room if I am traveling alone? 

Most MedTreks trips are priced based on double occupancy, meaning two people share a room unless otherwise noted.

Many trips offer a limited number of single supplement options for guests who prefer a private room. These are available at an additional cost and are usually first come, first served.

If you are traveling alone and prefer to share, we may be able to help match you with another solo traveler when possible. 

Can I bring a guest who isn’t in the medical field?

Yes! Many participants bring partners, friends, or family members who simply want to experience the destination without attending CME sessions.

And to make the expereince even better, Guests are invited to join all non-academic excursions and cultural activities. Truly, this ensures a memorable journey for everyone.

What is wilderness medicine CME?

Wilderness Medicine CME combines classroom learning with hands-on medical training in outdoor and remote environments.

MedTreks courses teach skills such as field assessment, evacuation planning, and environmental medicine, all within some of the world’s most stunning landscapes and premiere accommodations.

Does MedTreks offer CME trips in the Galapagos?

Yes. MedTreks offers a premiere Galápagos Private Yacht Cruise one of our most sought-after experiences.

Even more, participants spend a week aboard a private yacht, exploring multiple islands, snorkeling with sea lions, hiking volcanic terrain, and earning CME credits through dynamic faculty-led discussions.

Learn More.

What other types of trips does MedTreks offer?

MedTreks CME Travel builds, offers and curates a diverse portfolio of CME adventure and wellness experiences, including:

  1. Surf & Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica
  2. Trekking Expeditions in Patagonia and New Zealand
  3. Cultural & Culinary Journeys in Japan, Morocco, and Egypt
  4. Wildlife Safari’s in Africa
  5. Global Health Field courses in Kenya
  6. Wilderness Medicine Courses in California, Oregon, and beyond
  7. Medical Spanish in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Cuba, Ecuador and Patagonia!

Each trip is immersive, educational, and rejuvenating, through a mix of outdoor exploration, medical learning, and human connections.

How big are MedTreks groups?

MedTreks limits each group to approximately 10 to 16 participants to foster an intimate and close-knit environment.

Also, this ensures more personalized instruction, flexibility, and connection among travelers. Plus, our guide to guest ratio is around 1 guide to 3-4 guests, which is huge.

Continue reading to find our MedTreks CME Travel FAQ specific to the Kenya Program.

How can I stay updated on new trips and CME opportunities?

Join our MedTreks Newsletter to receive early access to new itineraries, faculty updates, and upcoming CME opportunities.

You can also follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn, or explore the MedTreks Blog for stories and insights from the field.

How does MedTreks pricing reflect the value of each trip?

MedTreks trips are boutique, elevated, and thoughtfully designed experiences created by a team of medical and travel professionals.

Equally, our pricing reflects the level of care, expertise, and comfort built into every itinerary: from upgraded accommodations and expanded support staff to personalized trip coordination and accredited CME content.

Furthermore, this is not luxury for luxury’s sake, it’s comfort with purpose. Every detail is selected to support learning, well-being, and authentic connection.

When compared to similar boutique travel operators, MedTreks remains highly accessible. This is considering value per day, expert faculty, accommodations, and CME hours.

Why is investing in a MedTreks trip worth it?

Because MedTreks isn’t just another CME provide, it’s a community-driven travel company that believes education and adventure go hand in hand.

To begin with, the MedTreks team leads every trip with intention and heart. Ari, our founder and trip leader, Becky, our Guest Services & Travel Designer, and our guides, faculty, and wellness coaches all bring deep expertise and genuine passion to each experience.

Additionally, we handcraft every itinerary to blend meaningful education with transformative travel, creating journeys that grow both the mind and the spirit.

Lastly, unlike large travel companies, MedTreks creates an intimate, personalized environment where guests truly connect with instructors, with guides, and with the people behind the brand.

How do I sign up for a trip? 

Signing up is easy! Just head to the trip page you’re interested in and click the “Book Now” button. This will take you to our online booking portal, where you can choose options like CME credits, room preferences, and more during checkout.

To secure your spot, a non-refundable deposit is required. You will receive an immediate receipt upon booking. Final payment is due 100 days before the trip starts. Once you register, we’ll send you a Welcome Packet with a detailed packing list and lots of tips to get you ready for your adventure.

Are there payment plans?

Yes, absolutely! After the deposit is made, you are able to go in to your guest service booking portal and make payments at any time. If you would prefer a specific payment plan, reach out to us and we are happy to set one up. We can set up payment plan all the way until final payment is due, 100 days before trip begins.

How fast do trips fill up, and when should I reserve my spot?

Well, it depends on the trip and destination. Many trips start filling as soon as registration opens, especially since we offer small-group tours with boutique accommodations that often have limited availability. To secure your spot and enjoy perks like first choice on room upgrades, we recommend booking as early as possible!

What is your cancellation/refund policy? 

We understand that plans can change. Here’s a general overview of our policy, but keep in mind that specific trips may have unique terms:

  • Trip deposits: Non-refundable.
  • 100+ days before departure: Full refund minus the deposit.
  • 100 days or less before departure: No refunds.

If we have to cancel a trip due to travel restrictions or other unforeseen issues, you’ll receive a 100% refund.

So, to cancel, just send us an email. We’ll confirm once your request has been processed. For full details, you can review our complete refund policy HERE

Do you require trip or travel insurance?

We strongly recommend travel insurance that includes medical evacuation insurance. In some remote destinations and depending on the trip, we will require travel insurance by each participant. After you register, your Welcome Packet will include recommendations for travel insurance providers. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance, we’ll ask you to sign a waiver.

Please continue scrolling to read our MedTreks CME Travel FAQ specific to the Kenya Program.

MedTreks Kenya Program

Frequently Asked Questions

About the MedTreks Kenya Program

Our MedTreks CME Travel Kenya program is designed to provide health professionals with hands-on global health education and skills training in Kenya, working with our public health and development program, Village HopeCore International.

The goal of this program is to help equip medical professionals with specific tools and knowledge that will help them succeed in the areas of public health, travel medicine, and humanitarian aid.

How do I sign up for a MedTreks Kenya Trip?

You can book this trip directly through our MedTreks Kenya trip page. If you have any further questions prior to booking your spot, please feel free to send us an email through our CONTACT page. Please continue scrolling to view the rest of our MedTreks CME Travel FAQ.

Do I have to be in the medical field to join this trip?

No. We welcome other volunteers on this trip. We discuss specific projects for non-medical volunteers on a case-by-case basis. We welcome others who have expertise in leadership, wellness, photography, computer science, marketing, etc. We try to match your skills to the needs of the Kenya program as best we can. Please contact us for further information.

What will participants be doing during the field course?

You will be arriving in Kenya as a MedTreks team member, but we will join up with Village HopeCore, which is an extensive and well-executed public health program located in the village of Chogoria on the slopes of Mt. Kenya at 5,000 ft.  The program offers health services to over 500 villages through mobile clinics, health education workshops, and school programs.

Throughout the week you will participate in several different areas of our community health program, including working in the mobile school clinics, performing community health outreach events, engaging in daily medical skills training, and providing health education and skills workshops for our local Kenyan staff. We hope this MedTreks CME Travel FAQ has been helpful so far!

What is our goal for this program?

This is a week of healthcare collaboration and knowledge exchange. MedTreks has been working closely with HopeCore since the program began in the year 2001. Our role is to provide continuing support, training, education, and skills to the local Kenyan healthcare leaders at HopeCore, and to enhance global health program development.

Can I get CME/Nursing Education Credits for this Global Health Field Course?

Yes, if you sign up for a CME MedTreks Kenya trip, this will include CME and CEU credits.

What does a typical day look like during the week?

Breakfast at the hotel followed by morning lectures/workshops. Spend the day out in the “field clinics” doing hands-on global health program development, or stay in town to provide educational workshops to our staff. Additionally, Evenings are packed with discussions, networking, family-style dinners, and optional games with the teams.

Where will I be staying?

Hotel lodging is simple, clean, and safe. Wifi, buffet meals, laundry services, and hot showers are available.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Yes, the minimum age of a team member is 18 unless they are accompanied by a legal guardian (parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, etc.) 25 years of age or older.

What about safety?

Historically, the village where our program resides has been a very safe place. We have been bringing international healthcare providers to this village for the past 20+ years and have never had any serious issues. That said, travel in any part of the world, has its risks, and many are out of our control. We do our best to keep our groups as safe as possible.

Plus, our staff keeps up to date on all the current political, social, and healthcare issues to make sure that we are doing our best to provide a safe and comfortable experience. As part of the program, you will receive an orientation upon arriving in Nairobi that will include a discussion on how to stay healthy while traveling abroad as part of the 2-day Global Health Seminar.

Is there a language barrier?

English and Swahili are the official languages of Kenya, however, there are over 40 different tribes in Kenya that all have their own dialect. Thankfully, our staff at Village HopeCore speak English and Swahili and are able to be interpreters while we are working in the clinics.

How do I learn more about the local culture and the community where I will be staying?

Once you have submitted your registration, MedTreks provides a comprehensive Pre-Travel Planner that includes a packing list, flight information, sample itinerary, course description, suggested readings, as well as a packet about Kenya and the village of Chogoria. Next up on our MedTreks CME Travel FAQ:

Can I stay longer than the 9 day Global Health Field Course?

MedTreks does have an extended stay Global Health Internship, that applicants can apply for. The time period is about 10 weeks and takes place immediately after the MedTreks group trip. If you are interested in applying, please visit our GET INVOLVED page.

Thank you for reading our MedTreks CME Travel FAQ! If you have any inquiries, click here to contact us.

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