Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can join the mushroom tours?
The tours are open to anyone curious about exploring the forest and learning about mushrooms in and around Berlin, with no prior experience required. While the tours are designed for adults, children are more than welcome to join. Kids aged 12 and over require their own ticket. Parents with very young children should be aware that some areas may not be accessible with strollers. A good understanding of English is recommended.
2. How much do the tours cost?
Group tour prices range from 25€ to 60€ per person, depending on the type of tour. Private tours start at 225€, with the total cost depending on group size.
3. How long is the tour and can I leave early?
Group tours usually run for either 1.5 or 3 hours, depending on the type of the tour. If you need to leave early, that’s absolutely fine. Just let me know at the start if you expect to leave before the tour ends.
4. Which forest will we be visiting?
Since mushrooms depend on rainfall, I usually scout for the best location about a week before our excursion. Because of this, I can’t confirm the exact forest in advance, but don’t worry, you’ll receive an email a few days before the tour with all the meeting details and other important information. The chosen forest will also be easy to reach by public transportation.
5. What is the terrain like and is the tour accessible?
We’ll be exploring off the main forest paths, so you can expect uneven and unpaved terrain. While we won’t be hiking the entire time, be prepared to stay on your feet for several hours. Unfortunately, the off-path nature of the tour makes it inaccessible for individuals with mobility challenges. However, if you have other accessibility needs, please write me beforehand and I’ll do my best to accommodate you.
6. What should I wear and bring for the tour?
Please dress appropriately for the weather, including comfortable walking shoes and layers. Consider bringing waterproof clothing and/or an umbrella in case of rain. It’s also recommended to bring snacks, water, and a knife/paper bag in case we find mushrooms to forage.
7. Can I bring my pet on the tour?
Sorry, pets are not allowed due to potential allergies or fear among participants.
8. What happens if it rains or if I need to cancel/reschedule?
Tours take place in all weather conditions, except in cases of extreme weather, where you'll be notified of any rescheduling. If you need to cancel, a 50% refund is available for cancellations made at least two weeks in advance. Unfortunately, no refunds can be issued for cancellations within two weeks of the tour. Rescheduling is free of charge up to one week before the tour, after that, a fee may apply. Please note that no-shows are not eligible for a refund or a spot on another tour.
9. Will we find edible mushrooms to take home with us?
As this is primarily an educational tour, there is no guarantee that we will find edible mushrooms.
10. Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?
Yes, tickets can be transferred to another person. Please inform me in advance so I can provide the new ticket holder with important details, such as the meeting point and what to bring.
11. How can I stay informed about upcoming tours?
Follow me on Instagram @mushrooms.in.berlin.tours or send me a message to be added to the mailing list.
12. How do gift certificates work?
Gift certificates are valid for three years from the date of purchase and can be used for any tour. They are non-refundable, and any remaining balance will not be paid out. To redeem your gift certificate, add a ticket to your basket at checkout and enter your unique voucher code in the "add discount code" section before completing your purchase. You’ll be redirected to PayPal to confirm the applied gift certificate. Please note that the final subtotal will show as 0.01€, because the system doesn’t allow for 0€ transactions; however this amount will be refunded at the start of the tour.
13. Who is the guide and what is their expertise?
Vivian has extensive experience identifying and studying mushrooms and is an active member of the Berlin-Brandenburg Mycological Society (Pilzkundliche Arbeitsgemeinschaft Berlin-Brandenburg e.V.) and Friends of the Earth Germany – Working Group for Mycology and Ecology (BUND – Arbeitskreis Pilzkunde und Ökologie). She is currently pursuing a degree in International Forest Ecosystem Management at the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development and working toward her State-Certified Forest Educator certification (Staatlich zertifizierte Waldpädagogin), which focuses on environmental education and sustainable forest pedagogy.
14. How can I contact you?
If you’d like to get in touch, please click here.