How fast do you run?
Run pace is set by the group and is at a casual pace, averaging 10 to 12 minutes per mile. (6.21 to 7.46 minutes per kilometer). Our guides are well versed in the art of run pacing and have the experience to find a speed that is comfortable and enjoyable for all participants and we will not leave anyone behind. Also note that Achilles Tours offers custom tours that cater specifically to your speed, duration, goals, and sight preferences.
I am not that experienced of a runner. Can I still participate?
Most definitely! We offer Guided Sightseeing Tours and Urban Workout Runs for runners of every skill level and have elite guides that can accommodate your needs. If you do have special requests, we ask that please note that on your registration form so that we can be sure to give you the best experience possible. Please note that Achilles runs are not races and are not competitive- our mission is to provide a fun and informative running experience!
Are there breaks or do you run the entire time?
Our Guided Sightseeing Runs do have breaks scheduled in the run at points of interest to allow for photo opportunities as well as a brief break should someone need it. Our Urban Workout Runs on the other hand, provide a continuous pace, but again, at that of the group. As always, we have the ability to slow down or stop a run if necessary. Don't forget, if these do not fit your specific needs, we offer custom tours that cater specifically to your speed, duration, goals, and sight preferences.
What is the slowest pace you lead?
We request that all participants are able to run a 15 minute mile pace or faster. The group travels at the average pace and regroups at sights during the Guided Sightseeing Tours and periodically during the Urban Workout Runs.
Do you offer walking tours?
No, at this time Achilles Tours does not offer walking tours.
Are the routes flat or hilly?
Steep hills are generally avoided, unless requested otherwise. Although our Downtown Tour does include reasonable climb to the top of Telegraph Hill, we ensure the safety of all participants by making a slow ascension and descent.
What should I bring?
Clothing- Suitable layers (such as a light jacket) as you tend to be colder at the beginning of the run and warmer toward the end. Comfortable shoes in which you can run, pain free for your selected run distance.
Water, Other Liquids and Food- We ask that you bring what you feel is necessary for you to complete your selected run. Our guides do carry water with them in case of an emergency, but not for community consumption. There are water fountains along every route we run, but if you would like personal access to water during the run, we ask that you bring (and carry your own).
Personal Belongings- We ask that you keep these to a minimum, but understand the need for items such as keys, wallets, cameras, phones, etc. and our guides are equipped with small back packs to accommodate such items.
Are water fountains and restrooms available during the runs?
All of our runs pass by public water fountains and restrooms that are available for use. Although our guides will carry a small amount of water for emergency use, we ask that you carry your own supply if you need additional water. If you have special needs regrading access to water or restrooms, please let us know on the reservation form, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Can the guides carry personal items for me?
We do ask that you keep personal items to a minimum, but understand the need to bring items such as keys, wallets, cameras, phones, etc. Our guides are equipped with small back packs to accommodate such items and they are more than happy to carry them for you, but please note that, guides are not responsible for damage/loss of any runner's belongings.
What are your guides background/training?
All of our guides are seasoned and experienced runners who love meeting new people and sharing the joy of running in beautiful San Francisco! We have runners from all walks of life- ranging from stay at home moms to professional athletes. Also, all of our guides go through rigourous safety and guide training, are first aid and CPR certified and are equipped with basic first aid equipment.
Are your runs co-ed?
Yes. In most circumstances we have men and women running together. Achilles Tours has both male and female running guides.
Do you still run during bad weather?
We are here to take you for a run and will do our best to make that happen as long as you are still interested. We do take weather into consideration when tours are booked and will provide you with all the necessary information regarding any potential problems that we foresee, but in the event of bad weather, we follow our Rain Policy below.
Rain Policy
In the event of heavy rain, Achilles Tours will notify clients no less than 2 hours prior to the start time of their tour and will make our best effort to reschedule the tour. Please note that San Francisco is famous for foggy weather and we safely and regularly conduct tours in foggy conditions. Please refer to our clothing recommendations for suitable attire to stay warm and enjoy your run!
What is your cancellation policy?
We have a 24 hour participant cancellation policy from your scheduled tour date and time. Please contact us at Guides@AchillesTours.com or (920) RUN-TOUR (786-8687).
Refund Policy
Full refunds are issued within 48 hours in the event of Achilles Tours canceling a run.
Refunds, less a $5 per person processing fee, are issued within 48 hours of client cancellation.
