adventure tour guide duties

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Tour Guide Job Description

Tour guides familiarize people with the history, functions, and customs of a particular region or establishment. Though customers typically include foreigners on vacation, virtually any person can attend a tour.

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Tour Guide Job Description Template

We are searching for a vibrant tour guide to join our established company. The tour guide's responsibilities include planning travel itineraries, familiarizing customers with the locality by vehicle or foot, and ensuring that the group remains safe at all times. You should also stay up-to-date with new attractions that may be of interest to customers.

To ensure success as a tour guide, you should be an excellent storyteller with a knack for customer service. An outstanding tour guide will perform minor alterations to each itinerary to suit the unique interests of each group.

Tour Guide Responsibilities:

• Greeting and welcoming customers to the tour.
• Informing customers about the itinerary for each tour.
• Planning itineraries in accordance with weather forecasts and the length of each tour.
• Scheduling visits and purchasing tickets to museums, galleries, protected parks, and other attractions ahead of time, if required.
• Planning alternate activities in the event that cancellations, closures, or weather prohibit you from attending scheduled events.
• Gathering and maintaining the requisite equipment for each tour.
• Familiarizing yourself with the layout and history of the region or establishment in which you will be working.
• Familiarizing customers with each region or establishment.
• Encouraging guests to apply sunscreen regularly and to remain hydrated, if applicable.
• Directing customers to other, noncompeting services that might be of interest to them.

Tour Guide Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience as a tour guide is advantageous.
• Capacity to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Adherence to prescribed safety codes.
• Excellent conversational skills with a knack for storytelling.
• Personable, humorous disposition.
• Outstanding organizational, time management, and improvisational skills.
• Passionate about traveling.
• Ability to work during evenings and on weekends.

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Adventure Travel Guide Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the realm of thrill and exploration, the importance of adventure travel guides has never been greater.

As humanity’s thirst for adventure grows, so does the demand for passionate individuals who can lead, inspire, and ensure the safety of our explorers in their journeys.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an adventure travel guide?

Whether you are:

• An adventurous spirit trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A tour operator in search of the perfect guide,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of adventure tourism,

You’ve found the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable adventure travel guide job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or travel career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Adventure Travel Guide Duties and Responsibilities

Adventure Travel Guides plan and lead trips to various adventurous outdoor locations while ensuring safety and enjoyment of all participants.

They need to possess extensive knowledge of the area, emergency protocols and survival skills.

The duties and responsibilities of an Adventure Travel Guide are as follows:

• Plan and organize adventure trips including transportation, accommodation, and meals
• Provide pre-trip information and conduct safety briefings for clients
• Lead and guide groups on tours to adventurous locations
• Ensure safety and well-being of clients throughout the tour
• Monitor weather conditions and make necessary modifications to the itinerary
• Provide first aid and emergency care when needed
• Teach and train clients on survival techniques and outdoor skills
• Maintain and repair equipment such as climbing harnesses, hiking boots, and camping gear
• Share knowledge about local culture, flora, and fauna
• Address clients’ concerns and provide assistance when needed
• Monitor and maintain the environmental aspects of the adventure locations
• Process payments and manage booking details

Adventure Travel Guide Job Description Template

We are seeking an energetic and experienced Adventure Travel Guide to lead, instruct, and inspire our clients on various trips and tours.

The Adventure Travel Guide’s responsibilities include planning travel itineraries, familiarizing travelers with the local area through storytelling and cultural experiences, and providing practical support throughout the trip.

Candidates should be knowledgeable about outdoor activities, safety protocols, and have a passion for adventure.

Ultimately, the role of an Adventure Travel Guide is to create an unforgettable journey that leaves guests feeling satisfied and knowledgeable about their visited areas.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate trips and travel itineraries
• Lead groups in various outdoor activities
• Provide detailed information about local flora, fauna, culture, and history
• Ensure safety and wellbeing of the group at all times
• Address and resolve any issues or emergencies that may arise
• Collect fees and tickets from guests
• Manage travel logistics and accommodations
• Provide first aid assistance when necessary
• Prepare and present educational materials to the group
• Adhere to all local laws and regulations

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a travel guide or similar role
• Knowledge of outdoor activities, safety protocols, and first aid
• Outstanding communication and leadership skills
• Ability to work flexible hours and travel frequently
• Excellent physical condition and endurance
• Passion for travel, culture, history, and the outdoors
• Proficient in multiple languages is a plus
• High school diploma; degree in tourism or hospitality is a plus
• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Travel benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid time off

Additional Information

• Job Title: Adventure Travel Guide
• Work Environment: This role requires extensive travel and outdoor work. Candidates should be comfortable with changing weather conditions and varying accommodations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Adventure Tour Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: Various locations globally. Specifics will be discussed during the interview process.
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does an Adventure Travel Guide Do?

Adventure Travel Guides are responsible for leading individuals or groups on trips that can vary from short outdoor hikes to extensive multi-day excursions.

They work in various outdoor settings and geographical areas, each with its unique challenges and attractions.

They are responsible for planning and coordinating every aspect of the trip, which may include transportation, accommodation, meals, and equipment.

They help the travelers with the necessary preparation, provide them with safety instructions and demonstrate the use of equipment.

Adventure Travel Guides often have specialized skills for specific outdoor activities such as rock climbing, white-water rafting, snorkeling, or camping.

They use these skills to guide their clients through challenging terrain or conditions, ensuring their safety and enjoyment at all times.

Their role also involves providing educational information about the natural environment, local customs, and historical sites.

They help travelers gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the places they visit.

Adventure Travel Guides are also responsible for responding to emergencies, administering first aid if necessary, and ensuring that all the group members adhere to the environmental conservation principles.

Finally, they also handle administrative tasks such as managing bookings, arranging logistics, and maintaining equipment inventory.

They often work closely with travel agencies, hotels, and local authorities to ensure smooth operations.

Adventure Travel Guide Qualifications and Skills

An Adventure Travel Guide must possess a combination of technical knowledge, communication skills, and physical ability.

The key skills and qualifications for this role include:

• Experience in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, and kayaking to guide and assist groups in such endeavors.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to provide clear instructions and safety guidelines to the group, and to build a positive and engaging atmosphere.
• Strong leadership qualities and decision-making skills to guide groups safely and effectively through various activities and situations.
• Physical fitness and endurance for participating in strenuous and potentially long-lasting activities, and to handle emergency situations effectively.
• First Aid and CPR certification to provide immediate medical attention in case of emergencies.
• Deep knowledge of local flora, fauna, and geography to educate tourists and provide a fulfilling travel experience.
• Problem-solving and crisis management abilities to handle unexpected situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the group at all times.
• Customer service skills to handle bookings, inquiries, and provide optimal service to ensure client satisfaction and encourage return customers.

Adventure Travel Guide Experience Requirements

Adventure Travel Guides typically need a few years of experience in outdoor activities or adventure tourism.

This could include roles such as a hiking guide, river rafting guide, or climbing instructor.

Entry-level adventure travel guides may have at least 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through part-time roles or internships in the outdoor activity or tourism industry.

They may have also gained their experience through relevant volunteer work or by leading outdoor activities in a club or organization.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a deep understanding of various adventure sports, risk management, emergency response, and customer service.

This experience may have been developed in roles like Outdoor Activity Instructor, Adventure Camp Supervisor, or Mountain Guide.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field may possess leadership skills, having managed teams of guides or supervised outdoor events.

They could be ready for roles like Adventure Tour Manager or Director of Outdoor Programs.

Further, adventure travel guides must hold valid certifications in First Aid and CPR, and in some cases, specific qualifications for activities such as diving, climbing, or boating might be required.

These certifications often require hands-on training and experience, adding to the overall experience requirement for the role.

Adventure Travel Guide Education and Training Requirements

Adventure Travel Guides typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education as a minimum educational requirement.

Many Adventure Travel Guides have a bachelor’s degree in tourism, recreation, or a related field.

This education provides them with a deeper understanding of the industry and equips them with knowledge about various aspects of adventure tourism.

They need to have a good knowledge of wilderness survival techniques, first aid, flora and fauna identification, and outdoor sports such as rock climbing, white-water rafting, etc.

This knowledge can often be gained through direct experience or specific training programs.

Most importantly, Adventure Travel Guides are required to be certified in First Aid and CPR.

Some employers may also require certification in specific adventure sports like scuba diving, mountain climbing or whitewater rafting.

It is not uncommon for Adventure Travel Guides to have advanced certifications in outdoor leadership and wilderness survival from organizations such as the Wilderness Education Association or the National Outdoor Leadership School.

Being multilingual can be a significant advantage in this field as it allows guides to communicate with a broader range of tourists.

In addition, a valid driving license is generally required.

Continued learning and staying up-to-date with the latest safety protocols and guidelines is crucial in this field.

Hence, adventure travel guides often take part in regular training and workshops.

Adventure Travel Guide Salary Expectations

An Adventure Travel Guide can expect to earn an average salary of around $36,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as the specific type of guiding (mountaineering, scuba diving, etc.), location, level of experience, and the size and reputation of the travel company.

Tips and bonuses from satisfied clients can also significantly increase a guide’s income.

Adventure Travel Guide Job Description FAQs

What skills does an adventure travel guide need.

Adventure Travel Guides should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with a diverse range of clients effectively.

They should also have a deep knowledge and understanding of outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, rafting, and more.

Moreover, they should possess survival skills and be trained in first-aid and emergency management.

Physical fitness, adaptability, and problem-solving skills are also important in this role.

Do Adventure Travel Guides need a degree?

While a degree is not always required, having a certification or degree in fields such as outdoor education, leisure studies, or recreation can be beneficial.

Certain specialized adventure activities may require specific training or certification.

More importantly, an Adventure Travel Guide needs to have extensive experience and knowledge in the area they are guiding.

What should you look for in an Adventure Travel Guide resume?

Look for a resume that showcases extensive experience in outdoor activities, leadership roles, and evidence of effective communication and problem-solving skills.

Check for any certifications in first aid, rescue, or specific adventure activities.

Knowledge or experience in the local culture, geography, or wildlife can be a plus.

What qualities make a good Adventure Travel Guide?

A good Adventure Travel Guide is passionate about outdoor activities and is keen to share this enthusiasm with others.

They should be patient, responsible, and able to make quick decisions in challenging situations.

Excellent leadership and communication skills are key, as well as cultural sensitivity when guiding groups from diverse backgrounds.

Finally, they should have a strong commitment to safety and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

Is it difficult to hire Adventure Travel Guides?

Hiring Adventure Travel Guides can be challenging as it requires finding candidates with a unique combination of skills including leadership, survival skills, knowledge of specific outdoor activities, and excellent communication.

They also need to be physically fit and able to manage potentially risky situations effectively.

Therefore, recruitment might take time to find the right fit.

And there you have it.

Today, we ventured into the thrilling world of an adventure travel guide .

But guess what?

It’s not just about exploring exotic locations.

It’s about forging unforgettable experiences, one adventure at a time.

With our ultimate adventure travel guide job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Embark on a deeper journey with our job description generator . It’s your next step to creating spot-on listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Every adventure is a step towards the greater journey.

Let’s shape that journey. Together.

Reasons to Become an Adventure Travel Guide (Discover New Worlds Daily)

How to Become an Adventure Travel Guide (Complete Guide)

Disadvantages of Being an Adventure Travel Guide (Altitude, Attitude, Anxiety)

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The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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What does a tour guide do?

Would you make a good tour guide? Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers.

What is a Tour Guide?

A tour guide provides assistance, information, and guidance to individuals or groups of tourists during their travels. Their primary role is to enhance the travel experience by sharing knowledge and insights about the destinations, attractions, and cultural aspects of the places being visited. Tour guides are well-versed in the history, geography, culture, and traditions of the locations they cover, and they use their expertise to educate and entertain the tourists.

Tour guides are responsible for organizing and leading tours, ensuring that the itinerary is followed, and the group stays on schedule. They may work in various settings, including cities, historical sites, natural landscapes, or cultural landmarks. During tours, guides provide commentary, answer questions, and engage with the tourists, creating an interactive and immersive experience. They may also assist with logistical matters, such as arranging transportation, coordinating entry to attractions, and recommending places to eat or shop.

What does a Tour Guide do?

Tour guides bring destinations to life by providing valuable expertise and insights. While guidebooks and online resources can offer information, tour guides offer a unique and personalized experience that cannot be replicated.

Duties and Responsibilities Tour guides have a range of duties and responsibilities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for tourists. Some of the key responsibilities include:

• Planning and organizing: Tour guides research and plan tour itineraries, considering factors such as the duration of the tour, the interests of the group, and the availability of attractions. They arrange transportation, accommodation, meals, and any necessary permits or tickets, ensuring that everything is well-coordinated.
• Providing information and commentary: A primary role of tour guides is to offer informative and engaging commentary about the destinations being visited. They share historical facts, cultural insights, and interesting anecdotes to educate and entertain tourists. Guides should have a deep understanding of the locations, including their history, architecture, local customs, and traditions.
• Leading tours and managing groups: Tour guides are responsible for leading the group throughout the tour. They ensure that the group stays together, follows the itinerary, and adheres to any safety guidelines. Guides should have good organizational and leadership skills to manage groups of varying sizes and diverse backgrounds.
• Assisting with logistics: Tour guides handle practical aspects of the tour, such as coordinating transportation between sites, arranging entry to attractions, and managing timing to optimize the itinerary. They provide directions, answer questions, and offer recommendations for meals, shopping, and other activities.
• Ensuring safety and security: Guides prioritize the safety and security of the tourists. They inform the group about potential risks or hazards, and they take necessary precautions to prevent accidents or incidents. In emergency situations, guides should be prepared to provide assistance and follow appropriate protocols.
• Interacting and engaging with tourists: Tour guides create a welcoming and interactive environment for tourists. They foster a positive and friendly atmosphere, encourage questions, and actively engage with the group. Guides should be approachable and adaptable, catering to the needs and interests of the tourists.
• Resolving issues and addressing concerns: Tour guides act as a point of contact for tourists, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise during the tour. They handle complaints, resolve conflicts, and provide assistance or alternative solutions when needed.
• Promoting responsible and sustainable tourism: Guides play a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism practices. They educate tourists about local customs and cultural sensitivities, encourage respectful behavior towards local communities and the environment, and advocate for sustainable travel practices.

Types of Tour Guides There are various types of tour guides, each specializing in different areas and catering to specific types of tours. Here are some common types of tour guides and a brief description of what they do:

• City Tour Guides: City tour guides specialize in providing tours within a specific city or urban area. They are well-versed in the history, architecture, landmarks, and culture of the city. Their role is to guide tourists through popular attractions, historical sites, and local neighborhoods, offering insights and commentary along the way.
• Cultural Tour Guides: Cultural tour guides focus on highlighting the cultural aspects of a destination. They provide in-depth knowledge about local traditions, customs, festivals, and arts. These guides may accompany tourists to museums, art galleries, cultural events, or religious sites, helping them understand and appreciate the cultural significance of these places.
• Ecotourism Guides : Ecotourism guides are responsible for designing and planning itineraries that are environmentally and culturally responsible, researching the destination, developing educational materials, preparing necessary equipment, and coordinating logistics such as transportation, accommodation, and meals.
• Adventure Tour Guides: Adventure tour guides lead tours focused on outdoor activities and adventure sports such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, or skiing. They possess skills and knowledge in the specific activities offered, ensuring the safety of participants while providing guidance and instruction. Adventure guides may take tourists to remote and challenging locations, coordinating logistics and providing a thrilling experience.
• Historical Tour Guides: Historical tour guides specialize in providing detailed insights into the history of a destination. They are knowledgeable about specific historical periods, events, and significant landmarks. These guides often work in historical sites, monuments, or archaeological sites, sharing historical context and stories that bring the past to life for tourists.
• Specialized Tour Guides: Specialized tour guides cater to niche interests or specific types of tours. Examples include food tour guides who focus on culinary experiences, wine tour guides who provide expertise on vineyards and wine tasting, or art tour guides who lead tours in museums and art galleries, offering interpretations of artworks.

Are you suited to be a tour guide?

Tour guides have distinct personalities . They tend to be social individuals, which means they’re kind, generous, cooperative, patient, caring, helpful, empathetic, tactful, and friendly. They excel at socializing, helping others, and teaching. Some of them are also enterprising, meaning they’re adventurous, ambitious, assertive, extroverted, energetic, enthusiastic, confident, and optimistic.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if tour guide is one of your top career matches.

What is the workplace of a Tour Guide like?

The workplace of a tour guide can be quite diverse and dynamic, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor environments. One aspect of their workplace involves cultural and urban settings. City tour guides, for instance, operate within bustling cities, leading tourists through streets, squares, and iconic landmarks. They may work in vibrant neighborhoods, historic districts, or cosmopolitan areas, immersing tourists in the local culture and urban atmosphere. These guides navigate through crowded streets, interact with locals, and provide insights into the city's history, architecture, and vibrant lifestyle. They may also lead tours in museums, art galleries, or cultural centers, where they can showcase the city's artistic and cultural offerings.

Another significant aspect of a tour guide's workplace is outdoor settings. Nature and wildlife tour guides find themselves working in breathtaking natural landscapes, such as forests, mountains, or coastal areas. These guides lead groups on hikes, nature walks, or wildlife safaris, sharing their knowledge about the local flora, fauna, and ecosystems. Their workplace is characterized by stunning scenery, serene environments, and opportunities for visitors to connect with nature. Adventure tour guides also operate in outdoor settings, taking tourists on thrilling activities like rafting, rock climbing, or skiing. They work in adventurous and often remote locations, ensuring the safety of participants while providing an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Additionally, the workplace of a tour guide can extend to various modes of transportation. They may lead tours on buses, boats, trains, or even walking tours, utilizing different forms of transportation to explore diverse attractions and destinations. This allows guides to provide a comprehensive experience, showcasing various facets of a region while offering comfort and convenience to tourists.

Tour Guides are also known as: Tourist Guide

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What Is an Adventure Tour Guide?

An adventure tour guide is a trained person hired to guide travelers through designated areas while on adventure vacations. These guides may work independently or as part of a tour guide company. The job of an adventure tour guide entails working with small groups of like-minded travelers. Group tours may be scheduled for singles, couples, or families.

In general, tour guides can be hired for a variety of vacations that require the services of a professionally trained guide. An adventure tour may take place in the air, on land or sea. One example of a land tour would be a safari wildlife photography shoot on the Kalahari Desert. By air, breathtaking skydiving adventures might qualify as an adventure tour. Tours at sea could include scuba diving in underwater caves or exploring sunken ships.

Adventure tour guides provide excursions on multiple continents and in numerous countries. Some of the tours specialize in different adventure activities such as hiking, biking, and walking. Tours can also be booked to include a variety of adventures from white-water rafting and kayaking to walking tours of the Serengeti.

Guides have the responsibility of setting up an itinerary for the tour and arranging accommodations, transportation, and dining locations for extended trips. For outdoor adventures, guides take care of providing equipment, provisions for meals, and equipment safety. Adventure guides stay at the same location as guests to take care of any issues and keep the group on schedule.

Transportation varies depending on the specifics of each tour. The tour guide and guests are often transported by van or minibus to the designated location. A trailer may be used to transport bicycles, camping gear, or related equipment when applicable.

A seasoned and experienced adventure guide is well versed in the tour’s activity and the history of the location. The guide should be aware of little known places off the beaten track to add to the excitement of the adventure, as well as frequently visited tourist attractions. A prime responsibility of an adventure tour guide is to ensure guests have a memorable vacation.

Qualifications for becoming an adventure tour guide include superior people skills, the ability to multi-task, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Guides must be physically in shape in order to handle long days and physical activity in a variety of environments. CPR and emergency response certification is also required for reputable adventure tour guides.

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• How Do I Become a Private Tour Guide?
• How Do I Become an Adventure Tour Guide?
• What is an Adventure Travel Guide?
• What are the Different Types of Hiking Adventures?
• What is an Eco Adventure?

Discussion Comments

Post your comments.

• By: Eric Isselée Safaris are a type of adventure tour.
• By: Dudarev Mikhail An adventure tour guide directs trekkers to scenic areas.
• By: germanskydive110 Adventure tours may include sky diving.
• By: VILevi Whitewater rafting trips are typically led by a guide.
• By: Photocreo Bednarek Many adventure tour companies run guided safari treks in Africa.

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What are the duties and responsibilities of a Tour Guide?

Being a tour guide is no mere profession—it's a commitment to education, a dedication to engagement, and a passion for sharing one's surroundings with the world. It's about striking the balance between historian, educator, and companion.

But what exactly does the 'job description' entail? Let's map out the adventurous landscape of a tour guide's duties and responsibilities. 1. Research, Research, Research! Before you charm your audience with tales and trivia, you've got to know your stuff. Dive deep into the history, culture, and stories of the places you're showcasing. Remember, every cobblestone might have a tale to tell. 2. Plan the Perfect Itinerary Crafting a tour is like arranging a melody. You'll decide the stops, the highlights, the duration, and the pace. Your goal? A seamless, engaging experience from start to finish. 3. Safety First As the captain of the ship, the safety and well-being of your crew (read: tourists) is paramount. This means knowing the ins and outs of your route, being prepared for emergencies, and always having a Plan B. 4. Be the Storyteller Your tourists aren't just looking for facts—they're craving stories, emotions, and memories. Weave tales that transport them through time and space. Your narrative can turn a mere statue into a legendary hero. 5. Customer Service Maestro From answering endless questions to handling the occasional hiccup, you're the go-to person for your group. It's your duty to ensure everyone feels heard, valued, and taken care of. 6. Adapt and Overcome Rain pouring down during your outdoor tour? A sudden roadblock on your planned route? A tour guide is always on their toes, ready to adapt, improvise, and ensure the show goes on. 7. Promote Local Businesses Part of your role is also to boost local commerce. Recommending that quaint café around the corner or the artisan shop down the lane not only enhances the tourist experience but also supports local communities. 8. Feedback Loop An astute tour guide values feedback. It's how you refine, improve, and elevate your tours. Encourage tourists to share their thoughts and always be open to constructive criticism. 9. Stay Updated From local events to new historical discoveries, a tour guide is always learning. It ensures your tours remain fresh, relevant, and exciting. 10. Energy, Enthusiasm, Empathy Last, but by no means least, a tour guide is the embodiment of energy and enthusiasm, combined with the empathy to understand and cater to diverse tourists.

Read More: What are the essential skills for tour guides? Being a tour guide isn't just about knowing the way; it's about paving the way for unforgettable experiences.

It's a role that blends research, storytelling, management, and sheer passion. So, if you've got a penchant for history, a flair for drama, and a heart that loves to meet new people, you're on the right path. Adventure awaits!

Read More:   Discover Tour Guiding as a Profession: A World Full of Travel, Joy and Endless Opportunities

Portobello Institute's QQI Level 6 Tour Guide course allows you to train and qualify as a national tourist guide.

If you are interested in choosing the course for the career you want, you can  book a consultation call  with our expert Travel & Tourism advisor Brandon McLean,  email  [email protected]  or call 01 892 0035. 

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• Trip Styles
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• All About Outdoor Guide Jobs

• Employment Opportunities

Outdoor guiding is an exciting, adventurous and fulfilling way to earn a living. The excitement of these outdoor jobs comes from the very nature of the activities you’re engaged in on a day to day basis. Whether you’re interested in leading hiking and backpacking trips, climbing courses, rafting trips, or any of a long list of options, leading outdoor adventure trips and tours is something almost no one ever regrets.

It’s worth noting that the information provided here is most applicable to commercial guiding. I.E. Outdoor ed, science education schools, summer backpacking camps, conservation crews, trail work, field research, college outdoor recreation teaching, etc will share similarities but trip types, pay, staff ratios, level of experience needed to enter and responsibilities will differ from this information.

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WHY AN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE JOB?

Enriching people’s lives.

The Adventure Travel Trade Association did a survey of adventure travel guests in 2019 to find out what people gained from their experiences. The number one answer was “transformation.” What other product or service in the world would get that response? Bottom line, it’s a privilege to work in an industry that has a profound impact on people’s lives. We help get people out of their comfort zones where they can learn about and connect with the natural world. When they return home, many of them are different people – they’ve discovered something new in themselves that they will never forget.

OPPOSITE OF AN OFFICE JOB

Working in the outdoor adventure industry, especially if you’re guiding or working in the field, is the polar opposite of having a conventional office job. Office jobs, while fine for many people, are not for everyone. For those of us in the world who prefer to have some level of excitement, adventure and risk in our day to day lives, guiding offers a wonderful alternative to your average indoor jobs.

STAY IN GREAT PHYSICAL CONDITION

Guiding also offers work that will keep you in good physical condition. Regardless which area of outdoor adventure you work in – hiking, rafting, kayaking, skiing…etc. – you will be using your body in strenuous ways that keep it strong and youthful. This is a tremendous benefit for people who want physical activity to be part of their everyday lives.

SEASONAL WORK WITH MONTHS OFF IN BETWEEN

Guiding tends to be seasonal, which means months off in between seasons. On top of that, many guiding jobs are well paid and receive tips, so staff can save up money while they’re working and then in the off-season travel and enjoy adventures on their own. Seasonal work is a huge advantage of guiding – it basically leads to short “retirements” every year as people enjoy their lives without the day to day responsibility of a job.

COMMUNITY ORIENTED

Finally, a significant reason guiding is such a popular job option is the people you get to work with. Guiding attracts physically active, nature-loving, adventurous people who can (much of the time) be a true joy to work with. Does this mean it’s all peaches and roses? Of course not – people are people. But you’re much less likely to find the power-loving narcissists in guiding that you find in many professions.

TOP GUIDING JOBS

Top activities for guiding include:

• Hiking jobs
• Backpacking jobs
• Mountaineering
• Road cycling
• Mountain biking
• Sea kayaking
• Wildlife safaris
• Snowshoeing
• Outdoor photography
• Summer camps
• Naturalist trips
• Horseback riding

THE ELUSIVE KEY TO BEING A HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL GUIDE

Many people get into guiding because they love the outdoors, or they love a certain outdoor sport. There’s nothing wrong with those reasons, but it has to go deeper than that to be a highly successful guide. And here’s the key – instead of loving a sport, or loving the outdoors,  you must be equally passionate about sharing that love with others . Guiding is all about people. It’s not about hiking, or backpacking, or skiing, or surfing, or climbing – it’s about people. You must love sharing your passion with others (in a lot of cases beginners), and the joy you get from your job must be significantly about seeing those people with big smiles on their faces.

If the paragraph above gives you pause, you may want to consider an alternate path. Guiding is not for the faint of heart, and it’s not for people who don’t love people.

HOW MUCH DOES AN OUTDOOR GUIDE MAKE?

Professional guide positions are likely to pay a higher rate than outdoor instructor positions like those with the  National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS)  or  Outward Bound , and with those positions trip leaders do not get gratuitites. Summer camps and ski areas are also more likely to pay lower rates and not include gratuities of any kind.

Finally, multi-day professional guiding is the highest paid category in the industry. Day guiding (such as one day rafting tours, day hikes, horseback riding…etc.) is generally compensated at a lower rate.

CAN I DO IT ON MY OWN?

There is no law or rule stopping anyone from guiding on their own versus for a company. However, you are required to have permits to operate any commercial activity on federal or state lands. These lands include national parks, United States Forest Service lands, Bureau of Land Management lands, state parks, tribal lands and more.

These public lands agencies are clamping down on illegal guiding. Penalties for illegal guiding include prison, significant fines, and being banned from entering specific national parks or public lands.

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Adventure Travel Guides

Being a tour guide is fun, but if you like to work out and keep fit and find that you do not have time to go to the gym with your busy schedule, why not incorporate a rigorous work out into your job? Becoming an adventure travel guide is the answer.

There are a number of different types of adventure travel guide job opportunities out there, so you do not need to worry about doing something that you might not like or have the skills for.

If you feel that you know enough about white water rafting, then you are well suited to be a white water rafting guide for example. If, however, you want to start out with something a bit more laid back, then you could opt to become a canoe guide, or kayak guide leading people on river tours in Alaska – the choice is yours. The best thing to do, to start with, is to look for an adventure tour opportunity or sports tour that you know you have the correct skills and experience for.

Did You Know? There are more than 20 different adventures to choose from as an adventure travel guide.

Job Responsibilities

The responsibilities of an adventure travel guide are not much different to a normal land tour guide, step-on tour guide, or shore excursion tour guide. However, with any adventure sport or activity, comes a risk, which means that the tour guide in charge needs to have a good understanding of advanced first aid. Apart from the advanced first aid, you will also need to know about the area you are travelling through and be able to narrate to your group whilst scaling a mountain or hurtling down rapids. Your job is to entertain your guests, and while you may think that boating down a river is entertaining enough, your tour group will want to know every inch of the area you are in. This means that you will need to learn about the plants, the wildlife, birdlife, local cultures and traditions, as well as conservation information if applicable.

This is why this type of job is best suited for a person from the local area, but it is not a necessity, as long as your geographical knowledge is up to par. The downside of the job is that you will have to be ready for adventure at any time of the day or night, depending on the adventure of course. You will also be required to work in any type of weather, so come rain or shine, you will be outdoors.

Depending on the type of sport your tour caters for, you will need to make sure that you have all the required equipment. You will need canoes or kayaks, paddles, extra water bottles, enough food, life jackets and safety equipment if you are a river guide, canoe guide, white water rafting guide or kayak guide. One other thing that you have to keep in mind is that your group may not be as experienced at the sport or activity, so you will have to be patient, offer good advice and support, and most importantly keep everyone safe. The trick is to go as slow as the slowest person while still keeping the more advanced travelers well adventured.

Job Requirements

Most companies look for locals to work as adventure travel guides, so if you live near to a mountain, a park, or a river, there may be an opportunity for you locally. If you do not mind relocating, then you will have to make sure that you have advanced first aid training, good management skills, the ability to foretell dangers, a good knack for knowing the weather of the area, and a proven track record in the adventure of your choice.

One thing to keep in mind is that you will stand a better chance of landing a position if you can lead more than one type of adventure. Most companies look for guides that are able to do water sports, mountaineering, and skydive for instance, so that they do not need to pay three separate salaries to three separate people.

Apart from that, you need to be between the ages of 18 and 35 to land most of the adventure positions available, and you have to be a people person with good communication skills, excellent teaching ability, and a strong sense of humor. You also need to be fit and healthy.

Training & Degrees

While a school diploma could get you a job, if you want to have a competitive edge, you will want to obtain a bachelor’s degree in subjects like earth science, sociology, geography, geology, history, and archeology among others.

With this type of job there can be no training on the job, so make sure that you know what you are getting into, because you will hold the lives of others in your hands. Your experience in the type of sport or activity will be paramount to being accepted for the position, and sometimes relevant certificate will be required, like a mountaineering license for example.

Salaries and Benefits

The life of a travel guide or a tour guide is not always glamorous, and it shows in the salaries offered. While you will find some companies offering salaries that go up to $75,000 a year, the most common earnings are from $2,000 to $3,000 a month. However, if you do have a great track record and the relevant experience you could land a cozy position brining in around $6,000 a month.

The great thing about earning money as an adventure travel guide is that you do not spend any of your own money while you are working, because you get free food, drinks, accommodation and of course travel. You are basically getting paid for doing what you have a passion for.

Quick Summary:

• Earn up to $75,000 a year, while doing something you love
• Meet new people and teach others about the sport you like and the area around you
• Make a start as an adventure travel guide with just a high school diploma
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• National Parks

How to Become an Outdoor Guide

Outdoor guides are a singular group of individuals for whom the outdoor lifestyle is quite literally the air they breathe.

REI Co-op’s Experiences team is made up of excellent guides who work hard to make all classes, events, and guided adventure travel tours around the world an incredible experience.  Frequently we get requests for a specific trip leader from guests who return wanting to take another trip with the same guide they had on their Grand Canyon hiking tour the previous year. For many REI guides, their reputation precedes them.

The vision, and the chief goal we strive for with every guided outdoor trip we offer and every bike we rent, is to provide our guests with the pinnacle of adventure experiences.

What does a guide do?

• Customer Service: working well with trip guests is the most important aspect of a guide’s job. Individuals who don’t like working with other people may not be a good fit for the guiding world. Guides encounter many different guest personalities and trying outdoor situations and need to be flexible enough to maintain excellent customer service skills no matter what.
• Education: Here, we put a heavy emphasis on providing fun and engaging information to our trip participants about the flora, fauna, geology, and history of the region they are exploring. Guides have to be experts on the natural and human history of their corner of the world.
• Hike, bike, backpack, raft, kayak: We look for guides who are adept in outdoor adventure sports, but most importantly people who simply love to get out there and learn!

How do I become a guide?

Working as an outdoor guide is an exciting and rewarding job. Breaking into the outdoor industry doesn’t require much beyond a passion for the outdoors and willingness to work hard in a dynamic environment. Certain qualifications and experience are helpful when seeking a guide position with an outfitter. Here we focus on finding the right personalities in our guides, but experience and advanced certifications are certainly always a plus.

If you are interested in becoming a guide you might consider:

• First Aid/Life Guard Training
• Taking a National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) course
• Wilderness First Responder:  The Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification is “the definitive wilderness course in medical training, leadership, and critical thinking for outdoor, low-resource, and remote professionals and leaders.”
• Swift Water Rescue Training

Job Requirements and Considerations

• Are you good at working with people?
• Do you have a flexible schedule?
• Do you have your own gear?
• Are you able to handle stressful situations and advanced problem solving?
• Do you love the outdoors?

We take pride in having the best guide staff in the United States. Our guides love what they do and work hard, it shows in every aspect of their performance. If you are interested in becoming an outdoor guide, take a look at our current openings.

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Tour Guide Job Description

Tour guide duties & responsibilities.

To write an effective tour guide job description, begin by listing detailed duties, responsibilities and expectations. We have included tour guide job description templates that you can modify and use.

Sample responsibilities for this position include:

Tour Guide Qualifications

Qualifications for a job description may include education, certification, and experience.

Licensing or Certifications for Tour Guide

List any licenses or certifications required by the position: CPR, AED, NAATI, CMS, SCUBA

Education for Tour Guide

Typically a job would require a certain level of education.

Employers hiring for the tour guide job most commonly would prefer for their future employee to have a relevant degree such as Collage and Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, Education, Graduate, History, Communication, Museum Studies, General Education

Skills for Tour Guide

Desired skills for tour guide include:

Desired experience for tour guide includes:

Tour Guide Examples

• Microsoft Word (.docx) .DOCX
• PDF Document (.pdf) .PDF
• Image File (.png) .PNG
• Remain informed of new information (Biosphere 2 programs, scientific research, ) and appropriately relay that information to visitors
• Greet and receive visitors to campus in a friendly and approachable manner
• Be an ambassador and leader on campus
• Provide accurate information and directions
• Conduct walking tours of campus
• Host students that wish to "shadow a current student" or accompany them to your classes
• Assist with Marketing & Communications projects and programs
• Work on weekends (Saturday/Sunday) and during final exams
• New hires will need to attend a mandatory training day
• Expedite all tours by checking guests in, print tickets
• Energetic, personable and friendly manner
• Ability to think on your feet and solve problems under own initiative
• 2 years providing guided experiences and working in an environment that required teaching, coaching, and instructional skills
• Ability to work quickly and remain alert, and to strictly observe safety procedures
• Previous experience working with Outdoor Programs or similar activity (strongly preferred)
• Previous experience working with Outdoor Programs or similar activity
• Use a computer based point of sale system to make reservations and sell tours
• Conduct scheduled tours and give facts and information to guests while snowshoeing, skibiking or snowcating in a safe informative and efficient manner
• Help guests on the mountain or at the base as needed
• Answer questions about the Fraser Valley and surroundings
• Assists in ticket and season pass sales, keep information boards current and orderly
• Assists in ticket sales areas helping guests and giving out information
• Assists other departments as needed on snowmobiles
• Perform daily routine maintenance, fueling, and oiling of snowcats and snowmobiles in accordance with Winter Park policies and procedures, including any cleaning and waxing needs
• Parking and moving snowmobiles and snow cats around base area and mountain in a safe and efficient manner
• Performs occasional snow-packing, trail maintenance pre-season and seasonally, as directed
• This will include dealing with enquires on site, monitoring visitors in the exhibition area and providing product knowledge to visitors
• Answer visitor questions and deal with queries assisting visitors who have special requirements
• Assist with large groups and school parties
• Monitor visitors on the exhibition floor
• Bilingual in Spanish, French or Mandarin a plus
• Ability to navigate uneven stairs and grades up to 10%
• Tour Guides are responsible for proactively approaching all guests to answer questions and provide general tour or Arena information
• Supervise the progress and experience of each assigned tour group
• Familiarization with the Winter Park ski area and mountain terrain
• Maintains knowledge of radio usage
• Transportation of guests or employees around mountain per ski patrol, with events, or per supervisors
• Report and correct, if possible, unsafe conditions regarding equipment and area of work or elsewhere on the area
• Skibike 1/5 of time
• Lift up to 75 Ibs (snowmobile occasionally and helping fallen guests occasionally)
• Carry, up to 20 Ibs (backpack during tours)
• Push/pull up to 75 Ibs (snowmobile) occasionally
• Most positions require general office experience and some assignments require strong billing, accounts payable and receivable experience, and a valid California Driver’s License
• 1 x 7 hour per week (Saturdays and Sundays) contract
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time (approximately 7 miles per day), climb stairs, and comfortably work indoors and outdoors in extreme temperature fluctuations
• Ability to deal effectively and tactfully with the public, fellow employees, managers and volunteers
• Ability to respond professionally to unusual or unexpected situations
• Must have the ability to work a flexible schedule of shifts that routinely include weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Provide exceptional service and go above-and-beyond to ensure guests are fully satisfied with their tour and overall Busch Gardens experience
• Follow up with tour guests, complete surveys, and make Photo CDs for guests
• Be responsible for the safety of tour participants
• Ensure that tour participants complete safety training and sign in appropriately
• Hours during the summer season will vary from 10-30 hours per week depending on tour schedules
• Stoop, kneel, crouch
• Reach, handle, use hands
• Talk, 90% of time
• Hearing, ordinary conversation, 90% of time
• Average acuity/near, often (gauges, forms, computer screens)
• Desire to help wide-eyed tourists and grizzled NYC residents experience art and museums in a very fun way
• Must have flexible daytime availability (including weekends)
• Must be a New York City resident and be a U.S. citizen or have valid work authorization
• Must live in NYC area (can easily commute to the Met) and be a U.S. citizen or have valid work authorization
• Ability to speak, read, and write clearly in English
• Must be comfortable with electronics and computers and have access to email
• To communicate closely with Food & Beverage, Housekeeping and Front Office to ensure all tour requirements are met
• Ensure all requests from on site tour operators are addressed in an appropriate and efficient manner
• Prepare and implement tour needs including, back-up staffing, coordination with Donor Ministries, Facilities Department, the President’s Office, and other Wilkes Office departments
• Maintain a thorough knowledge of Samaritan’s Purse projects and activities requiring funding
• Average acuity/far, often (routes, driving, skibiking, night biking)
• Depth perception, constantly (driving, riding safely on ski runs through skiers and people possibly in limited visibility conditions and night time)
• Good field of vision,(peripheral vision for avoiding trees, towers, skiers, etc with equipment)
• Withstand extreme cold and wet occasionally (Tours in adverse conditions)
• Withstand Fumes / odors occasionally (exhaust, diesel)
• Avoiding Hazards (trees, skiers, terrain)
• Warm, friendly, eager, a "people person" with excellent communication skills but also attention to detail
• Must be able to wear required uniform
• College degree required and/or the equivalent in experience
• Extensive knowledge of Santa Fe and the surrounding National Parks and key areas of interest
• A valid ID residency to live in Galapagos Islands
• Naturalist Guide license issued by the Galapagos National Park

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North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

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Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

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New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Work as a G Adventures Tour Leader

There’s a reason they get the title ceo.

Become a CEO

We don’t have tour leaders; we have CEOs (Chief Experience Officers). They’re the backbone of our company, leading our customers to adventures. CEOs are the face of G Adventures, helping travellers of all ages connect with our world.

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Why become a CEO

Change people’s lives

As a CEO, you’ll give our travellers memories to last a lifetime, and change people’s lives by connecting remote communities with the economic benefits of the global tourist chain.

Explore the world

Who can say that they get paid to travel the world? Well, you can! Take a group of travelers on life-changing trips and have the time of your life while getting paid. That’s a serious win-win.

Create happiness and community

Meet people from all walks of life, creating happiness and community for them – as well as for yourself! There’s simply no other job in the world like it.

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Madison Adventure Tours

Tour guide position description.

Madison Adventure Tours is a brand new business that provides guided eBike tours of Madison, WI. We love to bring people together for an unforgettable experience that unites people of different backgrounds to discover something new about the world or themselves. We believe that Madison is a truly special place and aspire to highlight all of the places, people, and culture that make it special. We strive to create a more sustainable, less car centric, world by helping people uncover the thrill of eBikes and advocating for bike friendly policies in our community. Join us and help people discover the thrill of eBikes and create a community of adventurers!

What you Bring

If you love eBikes or bikes and love riding in Madison, then this is the perfect job for you! We hire guides who are outgoing, friendly, and can provide an authentic, enjoyable customer experience. Guides must be able to safely lead our guests throughout the busy streets of Madison, while providing an entertaining and informative tour of everything that makes Madison great. 

What You’ll Do

A guide’s primary responsibility is leading tours on a structured route. You will provide an inclusive, positive, and safe environment for all guests. Additional duties include basic bike maintenance (with on the job training), tour set up, and clean up.

Job Responsibilities

Guide Tours

Lead groups of riders on organized eBike tours, ensuring the safety of all participants at all times.

Keep the group together and on schedule, making sure to stick to one of the predetermined routes.

Provide entertaining and informative commentary about landmarks and points of interest along the route.

Ensure that all riders understand and follow safety guidelines and regulations.

Handle any issues or emergencies that may arise during the tour in a calm and professional manner.

Customer Service

Check guests in and welcome them in a friendly manner.

Provide clear instructions and training for the eBikes and the tour route.

Respond to any questions or concerns from riders.

Handle any customer complaints or issues in a professional and timely manner.

Create a positive, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for guests.

Bike Maintenance

Maintain the eBikes and equipment, performing basic repairs and troubleshooting as needed.

Fix minor issues that arise on the tour.

Additional Job Details

This role is a flexible, seasonal, and part time job that is great for those looking for supplemental or intermittent work. Tours run twice daily from April to early November. Each daily shift is roughly six hours in length, but half day shifts may be considered. Tours run for approximately 2 hours, with guide narrated stops at Madison landmarks. Tours will run regardless of weather unless there are safety concerns. Because this is a new business, we cannot guarantee that scheduled tours will have riders at this time. We hope you will be a key part of growing this business and attracting guests to fill every tour! 

Minimum $17.50/hr starting wage plus tips with considerations for relevant experience

Bike maintenance training

Tour training

Make your own schedule

Work outdoors

Job Requirements

Over the age of 18

Familiarity with Madison

Ability to ride a bike up to 10 miles

Comfortable fixing flat tires/basic maintenance (training provided)

A minimum of 2 rides per week commitment 

Legally authorized to work in the US

Fluent in English

Previous tour guide experience, customer service roles, bike mechanic experience, and multilingual candidates are a plus!

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Vote for your favorite adventure tour operator!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour, they'll have something for you, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking. Which adventure tour operator would you most like to book with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour operators will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour,...   Read More

Best Adventure Tour Operator Nominees

Photo courtesy of Todd Mintz

Adventure Canada

Equipped with a fleet of small-scale cruise liners, Adventure Canada has mastered the art of both Arctic and Antarctic excursions. Across Canada, the Northwest Passage voyage highlights the idyllic beauty of Nunavut, while those hoping to spot polar bears in the wild should spring for a Heart of the Arctic expedition, with both featuring highly educated naturalists and archaeologists aboard the ship.

Photo courtesy of Tyson Mayr

Aurora Expeditions

A pioneer of Antarctic travel in the 20th century, Aurora Expeditions has evolved into a force within the industry that offers trips all across the globe. Polar voyages are particularly popular, with options ranging from the shores of Antarctica to the High Arctic, while other cruise routes include Costa Rica, Scotland, and Iceland.

Photo courtesy of Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours specializes in small group adventures with a focus on the American Southwest, Alaska, and western Canada. Guests enjoy fully customized touring vehicles with enlarged viewing windows, free Wi-Fi at most campsites, and the myriad benefits of insider expertise, like the best spots to photograph a sunset or favorite local restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Kirstie Mullikin

Explorer Chick Adventure Co.

From snorkeling around the Galapagos to gorilla trekking in Uganda, Explorer Chick’s curated tours span five separate continents — and each one is crafted specifically by women, for women. Founded in 2014 by Nicki Bruckmann, this adventure company provides ample opportunity to explore gorgeous landscapes and forge new friendships all across the globe.

Photo courtesy of GomezDavid / E+ Getty Images

Frontiers North Adventures

While northern Canada may not be the most easily accessed region, Frontiers North Adventures is perfectly equipped for making your dream excursion come true. In addition to polar bear safaris and beluga whale watching, the company's Northern Lights and Winter Nights excursion offers an opportunity to catch one of the planet's most stunning natural phenomena in real life.

Photo courtesy of G Adventures, Inc.

G Adventures

Launched in 1990, G Adventures has earned acclaim for their wide array of high-end tours and strong commitment to positive social impact. Whether it's hiking in Iceland or biking in Vietnam, each trip is designed to reflect the company's G for Good philosophy, a concept that seeks to benefit all people and communities visited during a trip.

Photo courtesy of HX & Espen Mills

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has earned widespread acclaim for their lavish cruises, with destinations ranging from the frigid depths of Antarctica to the sunny shores of the Caribbean. For wildlife lovers in particular, the company's Galapagos expeditions shine a spotlight on the rich biodiversity of the archipelago, while a Svalbard voyage is perfect for spotting polar bears in their natural habitat.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Toronto-based Intrepid is a treasure trove for small-scale sustainable tours, with more than 100 countries available to visit. With itineraries like lemur-spotting in the rural depths of Madagascar and cultural immersions across the Middle East, this storied adventure company is perfect for accessing some of the most remote corners of the globe.

Photo courtesy of Journeys International

Journeys International

Journeys International builds private and group trips to a variety of worldwide destinations, centering each adventure around the individual's or groups' travel goals. Each party is assigned an adventure specialist who makes personalized choices of locations and activities to include in the experience. All journeys are designed to give every person involved a special and unique trip of a lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Ralph Lee Hopkins, Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

New Zealand, French Polynesia, and Greenland are just a few of the dazzling destinations frequented by Lindblad Expeditions, a storied tour operator that's been working in tandem with National Geographic since 2004. While warm weather destinations span from Baja California to the Amazon, the company has earned abundant acclaim for their immersive Antarctic expeditions focusing on native wildlife amidst stunning scenery.

Photo courtesy of KenCanning / E+ Getty Images

Maple Leaf Adventures

The spectacular beauty of Canada is on full display with Maple Leaf Adventures, a small-ship cruise operator that's been in the business since 1986. While the bulk of their itineraries focus on showcasing locations across western Canada, gastronomes can also join in on the fun with a curated Craft Beer Cruise or Wines And Islands excursion across British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Karin Watkins MT Sobek Photo File

MT Sobek has been a leader in the adventure travel industry for more than half a century. Today, travelers can choose from some 200 journeys around the world. Each one is designed to inspire and exhilarate, with interest categories like multi-adventure, family adventure, wildlife and safari, adventure cruising, hiking and trekking, cultural discovery, and rafting and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Beginning as a small-scale rafting tour company back in 1972, Nantahala Outdoor Center has expanded far beyond just the rivers of North Carolina, operating tours from southern Iceland to the Zambezi River. Though their scope has expanded on an international scale, the company still excels at domestic adventure, showcasing the incredible rafting opportunities across the Southern United States.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

Adventure travelers have long turned to REI to outfit their travels; with REI Adventures, they’ll also find more than 100 fully curated experiences across the United States. These active travel itineraries might involve cycling near Zion National Park, hiking through Yellowstone and Grand Teton, kayaking at Point Reyes, or enjoying a weekend of backpacking close to home.

Photo courtesy of Stubborn Mule Travel

Stubborn Mule Travel

A perfect fit for all ages, Stubborn Mule Travel has curated a wide variety of itineraries designed specifically for traveling families. Destinations span across five continents, and as an added bonus, the company also offers unique itinerary stops based off of the interests of each individual guest.

Photo courtesy of 104kelly // Getty Images

Thomson Safaris

Best known as the home of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has earned worldwide acclaim for its abundant natural beauty — a quality that Thomson Safaris has been highlighting for more than 40 years. While there’s no going wrong with a classic safari, the company also offers food-focused tours and even plane excursions, each one led by a team of expert local guides.

Photo courtesy of Urban Events Global Team

Urban Events Global

Kevin Knight founded Urban Events Global as a travel company for African American adventure seekers looking to explore with like-minded travelers. The company hosts regular camping weekends, as well as group tours to destinations like Ghana, Dubai, Greece, and Jamaica. They can also plan a custom trip itinerary for you.

Photo courtesy of Ren Fuller // Women High On Adventure

WHOA Travel

WHOA Travel works with women guides and business owners to build unique travel experiences. WHOA group adventures are scheduled all over the world, from Kilimanjaro and Peru to Iceland and Bavaria. 

Photo courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Photo courtesy of Beth Peluse / Zephyr Adventures

Zephyr Adventures

Equipped with a roster of trips that span from strenuous mountain hikes to e-biking excursions, Zephyr Adventures offers a diverse range of options for your next getaway. For a glimpse into the beauty of coastal New England, the Acadia National Park Hiking Adventure is a top choice, while those who prefer a more laid-back itinerary can spring for the Czech Republic Breweries and Walking Adventure.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home...   Read More

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of Read More

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com , the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter  and Instagram .

Olivia Christine Perez

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel...   Read More

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of  O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at  ochristine.com  and  instagram.com/ochristine.

Shea Peters

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent...   Read More

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent world traveler that looks to the history of a location in order to tell the story. Growing up in a Southern family that loves to travel, Shea has seen 44 of the 50 US states and believes that every place has a story worth telling, regardless of how populated or rural. She's currently a regular contributor discussing travel, culture, history, food, wellness, and business at Travel + Leisure, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Oprah Daily, Women’s Health, TripAdvisor, Cosmo, and Revolt TV. When she's not traveling, rooting for some unlikable sports team, or taking a pilates class, you can find Shea in her rooftop garden that is currently flourishing above the streets of New York City. You can follow Shea on  Instagram  and  Twitter .

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.