I booked this tour on a cruise ship. Our driver picked us up at the pier and after another pier stop we headed south and up the mountain side on a road that will only accomidate one vehicle at a time. The driver stops the bus at switch back turns and radios ahead to insure a clear road. When you get towards the top you are introduced to a guide who educates you on how gold is mined and the various methods. Then you drive up to the mine shaft and are introduced to a knowledgeable minor who briefs you on mine safety and then you get to enter a mine shaft. Explainations of mining practices and the type of equipment used for mining are discussed in addition to how mining equipment works. You get to see the gold in the rock and how it is removed and processed. After exiting the mine you descend down the mountain and view the remains of the entire mining facility. At the end of the tour your invited to pan for gold, how to perform this task and you will be suprised by the results of your panning methods. The tour I took lasted about 4 hours with trip time. There are ample opportunities to take photos and you really get the feeling of "gold fever" For the faint of heart the drive up the mountain can be scary as the road is gravel and is cut along the hillside with minimum clearances and of course you get the view of the downhill side of this mountain. The mine is lit but somewhat dark , the temp in the mine is about 40 degrees and it is damp. Dress accordingly and they provide you hard hats and ear plugs for the events that unfold as you walk in the mine shafts and are informed by your guide. If your a "roll the sleeves up type person" you will get a kick out of your guide because you feel like becoming a minor! I highly recommend this tour and it is well worth the price.