best travel companies for young adults

Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, 5 best group tour companies for young solo single travelers.

Last Updated on February 19, 2024 by Talita

Traveling alone is wonderful, but it can also be intimidating. Especially if your destination has a language or a culture completely different from your own.

And sometimes, making friends while traveling can be difficult and many worry about getting lonely. So, a good option for anyone who wants to begin adventuring around the world on their own is to use a tour excursion company that specializes in trips for young adults.

Of course, traveling is always about visiting a place and seeing new things, but one of the highlights is often meeting new people along the way. This is what is called social traveling .

Table of Contents

• 0.1 Is it worth going on a group tour as a young solo/single traveler?
• 0.2 What are travel groups for young solo/single travelers like?
• 0.3 How to choose a tour company for young single/solo travelers
• 0.4 5 Best Tour Companies for Young Solo/Single Travelers
• 0.5 Comparison table of the best group tour companies for young solo/single travelers:
• 1 Bonus: World Tours for Women Only
• 2 Planning your next trip?

Is it worth going on a group tour as a young solo/single traveler?

As with all types of travel, there are pros and cons to going with a tour company, especially with companies specialized in tours for young travelers since many include lots of partying and going out and daily bonding with the same group. So, it’s possible that this isn’t the right choice for you.

(PS: still a young adult traveler who is interested in group tours but not the party aspect of them? See tour companies # 3 & #4 below or see my article with the 5 Best Small Group Tour Companies for International Travel  for  some more options) 

So it’s important to know some things beforehand about this type of trip so you can decide for yourself if it’s your style or not.

What are travel groups for young solo/single travelers like?

How to choose a tour company for young single/solo travelers

To help you choose an excursion that works for you and fits your travel type, we’ll separate out the companies that specialize in guided trips for young single/solo travelers with the best reputations (and prices) on the market here, including a comparison table.

It’s also worth remembering that some of these companies offer guided tours beyond those just for young adults. So no matter what, you should be able to find one a tour that works best with your personality, your wallet, and your patience.

Note: And if you are a woman and want to take a solo female small group tour, take a look at our bonus option after the comparison table: Solo Female Travelers Tours

5 Best Tour Companies for Young Solo/Single Travelers

Contiki is the most well-known tour company for young travelers worldwide. It’s been around since 1962, so its name carries quite a lot of weight.

But don’t worry if this sounds a bit intense for you…the options below are a bit more “calm.”

So, as you can imagine,  most of Contiki’s excursions involve lots of partying and going out with “pub crawl” kind of nights. And since there’s plenty of cool stories online of young travelers who traveled and would travel again with Contiki, it must be one of the best companies available if this is the type of travel you’re looking for.

Contiki has more than 328 distinct tours for many destinations across the 6 continents. According to their website, 55% of travelers who chose Contiki are single and are traveling alone, but the trips can also accommodate groups of friends and couples.

One thing to keep in mind is that the groups are usually quite big, around 30 people, and the main form of travel is the company’s coach bus.

Finally, their tours have a bit of everything: physical activities , exploration of local culture and food, and visits to ethical and sustainable organizations and projects in your destination. In other words, you are capable of a journey full of different attractions, sounds, and experiences!

Topdeck is a company that offers“epic trips and tours for young adventurers aged 18-39.”With 40 years of experience, alongside Contiki, Topdeck is one of the most well-known companies in terms of group travel for young solo/single travelers.

Their trips are divided into several categories:

• Hotel tours: designed for couples or singles who want to travel a bit more comfortably through Europe, the U.S., Canada, or Asia. All hotels have, at least, 3 stars and the excursions give you a lot of free time to relax or explore on your own.
• Explorer trips: these are shorter trips, between 6 days and 3 weeks, with just one country for those who want to explore local culture more deeply. The groups are small and accommodation is in shared or private hotel rooms.
• Hostel plus trip:  low-cost tours with accommodation in hostels , cabins, or vans and with itineraries with multiple destinations/countries.
• Camping trips: these trips are the cheapest way to travel through Europe with Topdeck. The accommodation is camping with private chefs cooking meals daily. The bunks are for two people and include mattresses.
• Sailing trips: these trips are an awesome option for anyone who dreams of sailing the world but doesn’t have an idea of where to start. Accommodation is within a sailboat in double, triple, or quadruple rooms with meals included.
• Festivals and events: these tours are specifically for events like Oktoberfest or the Sziget festival (in Hungary) and other festivals in the United States, Canada, and Europe .
• Ski trips: these trips are perfect for anyone who loves snow and skiing . With destinations in Canada, New Zealand, Bulgaria, and Japan . Accommodation is in private or shared hotel rooms.
• Gap year: this trip is made for young travelers 17-18 who want to travel in Europe after graduating high school. It’s a great idea for anyone who wants to travel on their own without freaking their parents out. Accommodation is in hostels and the destinations usually include 8-10 countries.

Created in 1990, G Adventures was born with the idea of offering authentic adventures responsibly and sustainably. Their excursions have reasonable prices and cover all the continents, including Antarctica!

The groups are small and the itineraries are designed so you have time to explore on your own. The trips are themed and have different options for all ages, including a category for young travelers aged 18-39.

The trips in this category are faster-paced and designed for young travelers. In other words, you explore during the day and stay up at night. Their motto for these excursions is “live fast now.” So, their trips are usually longer than the others and offer more activities.

Plus, this category of travel groups is a bit more affordable with accommodation in hostels and a few meals included to guarantee a cheaper price. You can read more about these trips here . 

Or, just click in the link above, go to G Adventures main page, click “Travel Styles” and select “18-to-Thirtysomethings!” 

It’s worth remembering that these trips follow the basic principles of G Adventures: small groups and free time. Plus, the trips are done in a responsible and sustainable way, prioritizing small businesses and the welfare of animals, children, and indigenous communities.

And finally, like Intrepid, G Adventures is a partner of Planeterra, an NGO dedicated to ensuring that communities touched by tourism benefit from it, rather than be exploited by it. The organization helps to empower local populations, preserve their cultures, and create support systems by managing 50 organizations across the 7 continents with the aim of benefiting women, at-risk youth, and indigenous and rural communities. You can read more about Planeterra here .

Intrepid is considered by many to be one of the best options for those who want to travel as part of an excursion with small, adventure-focused groups .

All trips offered by Intrepid are sustainable, and because of this Intrepid is known and respected as the global leader in sustainable travel.

The company has zeroed its carbon footprint and supports the Intrepid Foundation, a foundation that finances the planting of trees worldwide creates jobs and local education, and helps the world achieve 8 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. You can read more about the foundation at https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/.

Intrepid has many types of trips for all budgets and personalities. That said, the company prides itself in organizing small groups of up to 10 people. This is because Intrepid believes that this is the maximum number of people that still allows a true connection with locals without you simply feeling like just a face in the group. The trips are also always designed to give you some time to explore on your own.

The trips made for young travelers aged 18-29 (called their “18 to 29s” trips) are designed specifically for the new generation of socially-conscious explorers. In other words, they were created for travelers who want to discover new places and cultures, make new friends , and also make a difference in the world.

There are many destinations and the cost of the trips are relatively low given that they are designed for young travelers. You can see all of Intrepid’s tour options here .

Unlike the other companies mentioned above, Trek American only offers excursions for North and Central America. And in general their tours are quite small, just 13 people, with the exception of their “plus” tours of up to 30 people.

Trek America is also quite well-known and has been running since 1972. Like Contiki, the tours are exclusively for young travelers aged 18-38 and include itineraries of 3 days to 3 months.

The reputation of Trek America is that they offer experiences which change your life with a balance between visiting big cities, national parks, and other activities that explore the most incredible places in North and Central America.

And, unlike Contiki, Trek America trips don’t include the “pub crawl” culture. So if you are a young traveler who is more interested in exploring and making new experiences instead of partying, Trek America might be good for you.

They have 3 types of tours:

• Original tours: small group tours with the aim of having an authentic “ road trip ,” with cheap accommodation that includes hostels, camping, and budget hotels. The groups have 10-13 people, which gives you a bit more flexibility in the itinerary.
• Plus tours: offered just to explore North America, these tours offer more comfort, primarily when it comes to accommodation, and you’ll stay in hotels, eco resorts, and apartments. Plus, breakfast is included as is more activities than the original tours. The only “con” is that the groups are usually bigger (up to 30 people).
• BOLT tours: offered exclusively for Central America with a combination of private transportation and local transportation. The groups are 12-18 people with accommodation in hotels and with a bit more flexibility, meaning the most famous tourist spots will be included, but you’ll still have lots of free time to explore on your own.

Comparison table of the best group tour companies for young solo/single travelers:

Bonus: world tours for women only.

Solo Female Travelers Tours is a company that serves women travelers from all over the world. It is focused on facilitating women’s adventures around the world with all the confidence, safety, and comfort needed by its clients.

Some of the destinations served by SFT Tours are Mongolia , Antarctica, Sudan, Tanzania, Tuscany, and Iceland. There are tours for all tastes, from luxury tours in Tuscany to extreme adventures like climbing Kilimanjaro (with a female guide!).

In addition to empowering diverse women to embark on journeys around the world, all trips taken by Solo Female Travelers Tours are supported by women-owned businesses and partnered with entrepreneurs whose mission is to empower female figures.

In conclusion…

Traveling is always an enriching experience. And for anyone who just likes to travel solo, group tours can be a fun and safe opportunity to explore a new country.

And the truth is, by traveling in a group with a guide, you’ll have an incredible experience and return filled with stories, friends, and memories. What matters is that you get out and explore the world, whether solo or with a group, because the world is big and waiting for you!

Planning your next trip?

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

14 Responses

[…] the major difference between tourists is their desire to explore the world alone or in a group of like-minded people. In the post below, we will take a deeper dive and discover the […]

It is always fun to travel with a group tour whether as a solo traveler or couple. There is so fun when you meet people and network.

Hi Magdalene! I completely agree. Traveling is not just about the tourist attractions, but also the people you meet during the process! 🙂

[…] of the option you choose to travel in Norway, whether independently or on a group tour, each has its positive and negative […]

[…] summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in Italy depends on your personal preferences. Evaluate your interests, time availability, budget, […]

Rodrigo, do you have any updated or more recent article like this one?

Hi Josias, thank you for your comment! The article is supposed to be updated. Do you see any old information that is not relevant anymore? Please let me know! 🙂

[…] of the option you choose to travel to New Zealand—whether independently or on a group tour—each has its advantages and […]

[…] the other hand, a group tour with a guide offers the company of fellow travelers and the opportunity to meet people with similar […]

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[…] summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in Vietnam depends on your personal preferences. Evaluate your interests, time availability, […]

To your list I would also recommend Italy on a Budget Tours for Italy tours

How Irene, thank you for your comment and suggestion! Now it’s here for all the readers to take a look! Thanks!

[…] of these types of companies have 100+ excursions across the 7 continents for groups of all kinds for you to choose from. Whether you want to travel […]

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Next stop….The DMZ, South Korea

9 Group Travel Companies For Millennials That You Should Have On Your Radar

It's not a secret that millennials love to travel . Whether it's for the Instagram fame, a chance to party, or just the genuine life experience of being in a new place and culture, it's true. In fact, according to research done by Contiki in 2018, the majority of millennials would give up sex for awhile in order to travel the world . Yeah, told you we love to travel! Most millennials in the study were also legitimately willing to temporarily give up Netflix, booze, and coffee in exchange for travel, too, and that's saying a lot. I mean... coffee?

But another interesting quirk in the millennial travel game is our apparent penchant for more adventure-based trips. Many young travelers reportedly opt for hostels or vacation rentals over hotels, making for a more authentic experience, and they are also more likely to seek off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Another thing millennial travelers are into? Group trips. "One of the latest trends in travel is the guided small-group excursion, tailored to give a pack of like-minded young people an immersive experience in a destination," explained Newsday . Group travel packages have a reputation for catering toward an older crowd, featuring trips that check off the boxes of every predictable touristy destination in town. But due to their interest in travel and the difficulty involved in aligning schedules and budgets with a group of friends, millennials have embraced and revitalized the group-of-solo-travelers trend, resulting in a surge of travel companies catering to this generation and organizing international trips specifically for young people.

Check out some of the travel companies for millennials that are curating epic, unique, and adventurous trips for groups of young solo travelers — and start saving up that PTO for a trip of your own.

Contiki (the company behind the sex/Netflix/booze/coffee stats above) curates worldwide trips exclusively for 18-35 year olds. Their motto is "travel with no regrets," which we can get behind — and they offer hundreds of different trips to destinations on nearly every continent. They also have a student discount available, for all you millennial scholars out there.

For The Love Of Travel

For The Love Of Travel is a boutique travel company that offers unique curated group trips for people ages 25-39. "[W]e embrace the idea of 'slow travel,'" the company explained on its site. "That is, having an authentic cultural experience that connects us with the soul of the destination and people we can relate to." Check out their incredible selection of experiences .

Under 30 Experiences

Under 30 Experiences is an adventure travel company aimed toward solo travelers who are — you guessed it — under the age of 30 (with a minimum travel age of 21). But they're not too strict about it: Most guests are apparently between 21-35, and the company says they usually serve "professionals, creative types, ambitious students, entrepreneurs, and motivated young people just figuring it out."

Aimed exclusively at young professionals, Travendly is a group travel company that thoughtfully puts together tribes of like-minded young people (usually in their mid-twenties to late thirties) for ultimate travel enjoyment. With more than a dozen curated trips to countries around the globe , there's something for everyone.

G Adventures' 18-To-Thirtysomethings

The collection of 18-To-Thirtysomethings tours offered by travel company G Adventures are described as"fast-paced and affordable adventures designed for young travellers." Their goal is to create exciting, adventure-based trips that young solo travelers can actually afford, so check out their offerings of trips to destinations around the world .

Travel company Topdeck organizes trips for 18 to 30-something year olds, and the company's passion is to "inspire young people through life-changing travel experiences." The group trips are made specifically for solo travelers who are looking for fun and adventures, and they offer trips all around Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia.

Group travel company Flash Pack curates unique and stylish trips for anyone in the millennial age bracket. Their trips are designed for solo travelers in their late 20s through 40s who are looking for an actually authentic and adventurous experience, and they specialize in high-quality, flexible, boutique accommodations.

Intrepid's 18 To 29s Adventures

This is for those of us on the younger side of the Millennial canon. Formerly known as Gecko, the 18 To 29s Adventures offered by group tour & travel company Intrepid . While they are strict with the age range, these tours are specially designed to be suited to young travelers and focus on local adventures, making their trips sustainability-minded.

EF Ultimate Break

Travel company EF Ultimate Break offers more than 65 different trips made for every travel style, and cater to solo travelers who are ages 18 to 29 for group trips. Unlike many other companies, flight costs are built into its trips, so once you pay (or get on a payment plan) you'll be all set to go, making it super easy for busy millennials.

16 Of The Best Tour Companies For Young Professionals (Updated April, 2024 🎉)

• Young adults seek tour operators that offer unique, adventurous experiences tailored to their interests.
• Young professionals value opportunities for meaningful connections with fellow travellers and locals alike.
• Many top tour companies for young professionals emphasise sustainable and responsible travel practices, promoting local businesses, community engagement, and environmental conservation.

Are you a young professional dreaming of exploring the world? Picking the right tour company can make all the difference in your travels. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the best tour companies for young professionals , ensuring you find that perfect blend of adventure, culture, and fun, tailored just for you.

The list: The best tour companies for young adults

Here's our recommended tour companies for young adults.

What makes these the best tour companies for young professionals?

These tour companies provide a complete package for young professionals – offering a blend of adventure, cultural richness, social interaction, and responsible travel, all wrapped up in packages that offer great value for money. It’s the perfect recipe for memorable, enriching travel experiences.

Firstly, the wide range of global destinations is a major draw. Whether it’s the golden shores of Australia or the historic charm of Europe’s streets , there’s a world of choice. This variety caters to the adventurous spirit of young professionals, offering a perfect escape from the routine.

The social and community focus of these tours is another big plus. It’s not just about seeing new places, but also about making new friends. These tours are brilliant for meeting other young, like-minded travellers, creating a vibrant community that turns journeys into lifelong memories.

When it comes to value, these companies hit the mark with competitive pricing . They provide affordable packages that don’t cut corners on quality, which is ideal for young professionals who are mindful of their budgets but don’t want to compromise on experiences.

The presence of expert guides adds immense value to these travels. These knowledgeable guides ensure not only a safe journey but also enrich the travel experience with their insights, making each destination more meaningful.

Flexibility is key for the young professional, and these companies offer flexible and diverse itineraries . Whether you’re after a laid-back holiday or an action-packed adventure, there’s something tailored just for your style.

The cultural immersion and fun factor is significant. These tours blend sightseeing with local culture and social activities, offering a holistic experience. It’s about soaking in the culture, understanding the place, and having a great time.

In today’s world, sustainable travel is more important than ever, and these companies are committed to eco-friendly and responsible tourism. This approach allows you to travel with a conscience, knowing your journey respects the planet and local communities.

The promise of personal growth through these travels is a unique aspect. Young professionals can find independence and develop personally, making each journey not just a trip but a step in self-discovery.

Topdeck Travel

Topdeck Travel is often considered among the best travel tour companies for young adults, particularly for their European trips. Established in 1973, they’ve carved a niche as one of the most popular tour companies, offering a blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and a vibrant social scene.

5 things we love about Topdeck:

• Diverse Destinations : From the sun-kissed beaches of Australia to the historic streets of Europe, Topdeck spans a multitude of destinations.
• Social Atmosphere : Ideal for those looking to meet like-minded travellers, fostering a sense of community.
• Affordable Packages : Competitive pricing without compromising on the quality of experiences.
• Expert Guides : Knowledgeable and friendly, ensuring a safe and enriching journey.
• Flexible Itineraries : Tailored to be as relaxed or action-packed as you desire.

What sets Topdeck apart is their focus on local experiences, ensuring travellers get an authentic taste of each destination. Their commitment to sustainable tourism also resonates with environmentally-conscious young professionals. Not to mention that Topdeck also have a wide range of deals and discount codes year round!

Check out these popular Topdeck tours for April

Get social: central & eastern europe.

From $3,500

+$0 additional upfront costs

Earn 2% cash back on this tour

Get Social: Central Europe Highlights (Winter)

From $2,645

Delve Deep: Spain & Portugal

From $2,279

Delve Deep: Mexico

From $2,329

Play & Pause: Britain & Ireland

From $3,369

Known as one of the best Europe tour companies for young adults , Contiki specialises in escorted tours across Europe and beyond. Their focus on creating a lively social environment, combined with their expertly crafted itineraries, makes them a top choice for young adults looking to explore Europe.

5 things we love about Contiki:

• Wide Range of Destinations : Contiki tours span across continents, offering a vast array of experiences from European escapades to Asian adventures.
• Focus on Culture and Fun : A perfect mix of sightseeing, cultural immersion, and social activities.
• Sustainable Travel : Pioneers in eco-friendly travel, Contiki is committed to responsible tourism.
• Travel Community : Fosters a vibrant community, ideal for making lifelong friends.
• Personal Growth : Encourages independence and personal development through travel.

Contiki’s unique blend of social travel, combined with their commitment to sustainable practices, makes them a top choice for young professionals looking to explore the world responsibly. Their trips are designed to create memorable experiences while fostering personal and social growth.

Check out these popular Contiki tours for April

Asian adventure (16 days).

From $2,417

+$547 additional upfront costs

Vietnam Experience (12 Days)

From $1,717

+$475 additional upfront costs

Thai Island Hopper West (Standard, 8 Days)

Vietnam highlights (10 days).

From $1,512

European Quest (Winter, Start London, 25 Days)

From $3,700

• Related: Topdeck vs Contiki: Which is the best for you?

Travel Talk

Travel Talk, winner of several awards, is known for its unique approach to group travel for young adults. They blend cultural immersion with adventure and are recognised for their all-inclusive itineraries , ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.

5 things we love about Travel Talk:

• Diverse Itineraries : Tours that cover historical sites, natural wonders, and vibrant cities.
• Affordable Pricing : Competitive rates without compromising on experiences.
• Cultural Immersion : Deep dive into local customs and traditions.
• Group Dynamics : Perfect for meeting fellow young travellers and making new friends.
• Expert Guidance : Knowledgeable guides that enhance the travel experience.

Travel Talk is notable for its affordable yet enriching travel experiences. Their tours are crafted to offer a deep dive into the culture and history of each destination, making them a great choice for young professionals eager to expand their horizons while meeting like-minded individuals.

Check out these popular Travel Talk tours for April

Essential egypt (5 star hotels).

From $1,220

Felucca Odyssey (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

From $1,173

Jewels of the Nile (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

From $1,261

Egypt & Jordan Discovered By Nile Cruise (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

From $2,474

Ultimate Egypt (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

From $2,024

G Adventures

G Adventures, known for sustainable travel, has teamed up with HostelWorld to create “Roamies,” unique small group tours tailored for 18 to 35-year-olds . This exciting partnership blends authentic local experiences with a youthful, adventurous spirit, perfect for young professionals keen on exploring the world in a memorable way.

5 things we love about G Adventures:

• Sustainable Practices : Strong focus on environmentally and socially responsible travel.
• Wide Variety of Tours : From trekking in the Andes to safari in Africa.
• Small Group Sizes : Ensures a more personal and immersive experience.
• Local Experiences : Emphasis on authentic local interactions.
• Community Projects : Many tours include visits to G Adventures-supported projects, enhancing the travel experience.

G Adventures excels in providing travel experiences that are not only exhilarating but also ethically and environmentally conscious. Their dedication to sustainable tourism, combined with a wide variety of adventure options , makes them a favoured choice for young professionals looking to travel with a purpose.

Check out these popular G Adventures tours for April

Cape town to victoria falls adventure.

From $4,239

Best of Egypt

From $1,039

Costa Rica Quest

From $1,124

Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro: Falls & Footy

From $2,324

Central American Journey: Rainforests & Ruins

From $2,319

One Life Adventures

One Life Adventures stands out for its unique destinations and adventure travel for young adults. Their itineraries in Asia, tailored for 18 to 30-year-olds, are perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure, culture, and social interaction.

5 things we love about One Life Adventures:

• Unique Destinations : Offers tours to exotic locations, including the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
• Cultural Immersion : Deeply immersive experiences, offering a genuine insight into local life.
• Small Group Sizes : Ensures a more personal and intimate travel experience.
• Adventure Focus : From trekking to snorkelling, their tours are packed with adventure.
• Community Engagement : Opportunities to engage with local communities and contribute positively.

One Life Adventures stands out for its commitment to authentic, culturally-rich experiences. They offer young professionals a chance to not just see the world, but to deeply connect with it, creating memories that are both meaningful and exhilarating.

Check out these popular One Life Adventures tours for April

Vietnam - one life adventures 12 day.

From $1,203

Philippines One Life Adventures - 10 Days

Sri lanka one life adventures - 12 days.

From $1,051

Japan One Life Adventures - 10 Days

From $1,801

Bali One Life Adventures - 12 Days

TruTravels is among the best group travel companies for solo travellers, offering exciting itineraries in Asia . Their tours are designed to bring together young, adventure-seeking solo travellers, fostering a sense of community.

5 things we love about TruTravels:

• Asian Adventure Specialists : Expertise in creating immersive tours across Asia.
• Budget-Friendly : Offers great value for money without skimping on experiences.
• Socially Oriented Tours : Perfect for meeting new people and creating lasting friendships.
• Local Insights : Tours led by local guides for an authentic experience.
• Variety of Tour Types : From relaxing island hopping to thrilling adventure tours.

TruTravels excels in offering a mix of cultural immersion and social fun at a budget-friendly price. Their focus on local experiences and social interaction makes them a top choice for young professionals looking to explore Asia with a group of like-minded travellers.

Check out these popular TruTravels tours for April

Cambodia explorer.

From $1,225

Northern Thailand Adventure

From $1,196

Northern Thailand & Beaches

From $2,395

Bali & Beyond

From $1,747

Komodo Island Hopper

From $1,085

Feel Free Travel

Feel Free Travel specialises in creating engaging and adventurous travel experiences for young adults. Their tours are designed to blend the excitement of exploration with opportunities for social connection, making them an ideal choice for young professionals and solo travellers seeking both adventure and companionship.

5 things we love about Feel Free Travel:

• Adventure and Exploration : Focuses on providing exciting and adventurous experiences.
• Socially Engaging Tours : Designed to facilitate meeting new people and making connections.
• Diverse Destinations : Offers tours in various popular global destinations.
• Tailored for Young Adults : Tours are specifically catered to the interests and preferences of young travellers.
• All-Inclusive Packages : Provides comprehensive travel experiences, covering everything from activities to accommodations.

Feel Free Travel is known for its dynamic approach to travel, combining the thrill of adventure with the joys of social interaction. Their tours are particularly appealing to young adults and solo travellers looking to explore the world in a fun, safe, and engaging environment. This positions them as one of the top travel companies for young adults looking for memorable and socially enriching travel experiences.

Check out these popular Feel Free Travel tours for April

Lanka loop 12 days.

From $1,580

Thailand Island Hopper - 9 days

From $1,153

South to North - 15 days

From $1,680

North to South 15 days

Hanoi to hoi an 10 days.

Koda Sail offers unique sailing experiences, focusing on tours along the stunning coastlines of Europe . They specialise in creating memorable sailing adventures for young adults, providing a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and socialising.

5 things we love about Koda Sail:

• Sailing Adventures : Specialising in sailing tours, offering a unique way to explore coastal destinations.
• Targeted for Young Adults : Tours are designed for young travellers, fostering a vibrant social atmosphere.
• European Destinations : Focus on Europe’s picturesque coastlines, offering a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.
• Personalised Experiences : Small group sizes for a more intimate and personalised sailing experience.
• Social and Cultural Immersion : Emphasises both relaxation and cultural exploration, including local cuisine and historical sites.

Koda Sail stands out for its sailing-focused tours, offering an alternative and immersive way to travel. Their approach to combining leisure sailing with cultural experiences makes them one of the best tour companies for young adults seeking a unique blend of adventure and social interaction in Europe.

Check out these popular Koda tours for April

Croatia sail - split to split (the dalmatian voyager).

From $1,585

+$90.24 additional upfront costs

CROATIA SAIL - Split to Dubrovnik (The Southern Discovery)

From $1,156

CROATIA SAIL - Dubrovnik to Split (The Northern Explorer)

From $1,557

TURKEY SAIL - Fethiye to Fethiye (The Turquoise Delight)

Turkey sail - fethiye to fethiye (the lycian dream), intrepid travel.

Intrepid Travel, established for over 30 years, offers immersive experiences in small groups across the globe. They focus on responsible and ethical adventures, ensuring a sustainable approach to travel.

5 things we love about Intrepid Travel:

• Global Destinations : Offers tours in over 100 countries, providing a wide range of travel experiences.
• Small Group Focus : Emphasises small group tours, typically with an average of 10 travellers, for a more intimate experience.
• Responsible Travel : A leader in ethical travel, they are committed to sustainable and responsible practices.
• Diverse Tour Styles : Catering to different preferences, they offer various styles of tours, from basic to premium.
• Local Expertise : Uses local guides to provide authentic experiences and in-depth knowledge of the destinations.

Intrepid Travel’s commitment to sustainable and responsible travel is a key differentiator, making them a popular choice among environmentally conscious travellers. Their small group size allows for a more personal and immersive travel experience, and their use of local guides ensures authentic and enriching adventures.

These attributes position Intrepid Travel among the best travel tour companies for young adults and solo travellers looking for adventure and cultural immersion.

Check out these popular Intrepid tours for April

Egypt adventure.

From $1,099

Cycle Vietnam

From $2,002

Southern India

From $1,855

Vietnam Express Southbound

From $1,020

Classic Costa Rica

From $2,032

Stoke Travel

Stoke Travel is perfect for those seeking a party atmosphere and adventure travel. Known for their festival and party tours across Europe , they cater to a younger crowd looking for high-energy travel experiences. Grab yourself one of their famous Stoke Travel Passports which allows you to experience more of Europe’s wildest festivals and captivating destinations with just one ticket, making it a fantastic choice for young travellers looking to dive into the continent’s most exciting and vibrant experiences.

5 things we love about Stoke Travel:

• Festival Focus : Specialises in tours to Europe’s biggest festivals.
• Lively Social Scene : Perfect for those looking to enjoy a vibrant party atmosphere.
• Flexible Options : Offers ‘Stoke Travel Passport’ for flexible travel planning.
• Community Vibe : Creates a sense of community and lasting friendships.
• Adventure Activities : Includes a range of adventure sports and activities.

Stoke Travel stands out for its focus on festivals and social gatherings, making it the go-to choice for young professionals looking for a high-energy, fun-filled travel experience. Their flexible travel options cater to the adventurous spirit, offering a unique blend of culture, excitement, and social interaction.

Check out these popular Stoke Travel trips for April

Oktoberfest (2 night package), ultimate oktoberfest adventure (4 nights), the barcelona boat party, san vino (3 nights), intro travel.

INTRO Travel is celebrated among the best group tour companies for young adults, especially for those looking to explore Asia. They offer a range of tours that balance guided activities with ample free time, making them a great choice for independent yet socially inclined travellers.

5 things we love about INTRO Travel:

• Exciting Destinations : Handpicked locations offering a mix of popular and hidden gems.
• Balanced Itineraries : A great mix of guided activities and free time for personal exploration.
• Social Experiences : Known for their fun and friendly group dynamics.
• Value for Money : Affordable yet high-quality experiences.
• Supportive Guides : Knowledgeable and approachable, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

INTRO Travel stands out with its balanced itineraries that cater to the adventurous spirit while providing opportunities for relaxation and self-discovery. Their focus on creating a supportive and fun group environment makes them a top choice for young professionals looking to forge new friendships on their journeys.

Check out these popular INTRO Travel tours for April

Thai intro 9 day, bali intro 9 days, bali intro 12 day, vietnam intro 9 day, italy on a budget.

Italy on a Budget is a fantastic tour company that shines as a specialist for both single and multi-day adventures in Italy. Known for their genuine and immersive experiences, they stand out with their local Italian guides.

These guides are more than just experts on Italy’s scenic routes; they’re local storytellers who bring the country’s history and culture to life.

With Italy on a Budget, you dive deep into the Italian way of life, exploring hidden gems and enjoying authentic experiences that typical tours might miss.

5 things we love about Italy on a Budget:

• Local Italian Guides : They’re not just knowledgeable but also offer insider insights and personal stories that make every tour special.
• Authentic Experiences : You’ll get to enjoy real Italian culture, from cooking in Tuscany to wine tasting in the countryside.
• Variety of Tours : Whether it’s a quick day trip or a week-long journey, they’ve got a wide range of options to suit everyone.
• Youth-Friendly : Their tours are a hit with young travellers, blending sightseeing, culture, and social fun.
• Sustainable Tourism : They’re committed to responsible travel, respecting the places and people you visit.

In essence, Italy on a Budget isn’t just about seeing Italy, it’s about experiencing it as if you were a local, guided by those who call this beautiful country home.

Check out these popular Italy on a Budget tours for April

Amalfi coast experience, mamma mia - 13 days/12 nights.

From $1,755

The Best of Tuscany - 4Days/3Nights

Rome & amalfi coast - 7 days/ 6 nights, let's go north - 9 days/ 8 days.

From $1,472

Sail Croatia

Sail Croatia is renowned for its spectacular sailing tours along the Croatian coast . Catering predominantly to young adults, they provide a unique combination of exploration, relaxation, and nightlife in one of Europe’s most beautiful coastal regions.

5 things we love about Sail Croatia:

• Specialised Coastal Tours : Focused on the Croatian coastline, known for its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters.
• Young Adult Focus : Perfect for young travellers looking for a mix of adventure and social activities.
• Variety of Itineraries : Offers a range of sailing experiences, from relaxed island-hopping to more adventurous excursions.
• Cultural and Historical Exploration : Includes visits to historic towns and offers cultural immersion.
• Nightlife and Social Interaction : Known for combining sailing days with vibrant nightlife and opportunities to socialise.

Sail Croatia’s unique approach to combining sailing adventures with cultural exploration and social activities makes it a top choice for young adults. Their tours are tailored to offer an immersive experience of the Croatian coast, making them one of the best group tour companies for young adults looking for adventure and socialising in Europe.

Haggis Adventures

Haggis Adventures specialises in offering budget-friendly, dynamic tours across Scotland . Known for their vibrant and adventurous spirit, they cater primarily to young, budget-conscious travellers who are keen on exploring Scotland’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.

5 things we love about Haggis Adventures:

• Customised Transportation : Utilises their own Haggis buses, ensuring comfortable and reliable travel throughout Scotland.
• Affordable and Fun Tours : Designed for budget backpackers, these tours are a blend of affordability and enjoyment, perfect for young adults.
• Expert Local Guides : The tour guides are locals who offer in-depth knowledge of Scotland’s history and landscapes, enhancing the travel experience.
• Safe and Responsible Travel : Adheres to strict hygiene and COVID-19 protocols, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of all travellers.
• Diverse Tour Options : Offers a range of tours, from 1-day trips to 10-day adventures, covering various Scottish highlights like Loch Ness, Isle of Skye, and more.

Haggis Adventures stands out for its combination of fun, affordability, and insightful exploration. Their approach to guided tours offers a more relaxed and enjoyable journey through Scotland. This makes them particularly appealing to those looking to explore Scotland in a budget-friendly way, without missing out on the authentic Scottish experience

Check out these popular Haggis Adventures tours for April

Highland fling, isle of skye & hebridean hopper.

From $1,049

Wild Skye & Loch Ness Hunter

Macbackpackers.

MacBackpackers, which offer engaging and budget-friendly tours of Scotland, specifically designed for young travellers and backpackers between the ages of 18-39, is the second Scotland-only tour operator to make it onto our list. Known for their dynamic itineraries and focus on the younger demographic , they ensure a lively and authentic Scottish experience.

5 things we love about MacBackpackers:

• Targeted Age Group : Tailored for 18-39-year-olds, ideal for young adults seeking a vibrant travel experience.
• Scenic and Comprehensive Routes : Tours take the scenic route, showcasing the best of Scotland, including popular landmarks and hidden gems.
• Affordable Pricing : Known for offering great value, making it accessible for budget travellers.
• Knowledgeable and Passionate Guides : Guides are well-versed in Scottish folklore and history, adding depth to the tours.
• Diverse Tour Options : From castle-storming and whisky-drinking to ceilidh-dancing, their tours offer a mix of cultural and adventurous activities.

MacBackpackers stands out with its youth-focused approach, offering an immersive Scottish experience that combines cultural exploration with adventure and socialising. Their tours are not only affordable but also packed with activities and sights that cater specifically to the interests of young travellers.

This makes them a strong contender among the best travel tour companies for young adults, especially for those looking to explore Scotland’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Check out these popular MacBackpackers tours for April

3 day loch ness & skye, 5 day skye & highland fling, 3 day isle of skye, 4 day skye spectacular, bali bucket list tours.

Bali Bucket List Tours is an adventure travel company offering unforgettable experiences in Bali and its surrounding islands . They provide meticulously planned tours that combine must-see places in Bali with hidden gems, creating a perfect blend of popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

5 things we love about Bali Bucket List Tours:

• Comprehensive Itineraries : The tours cover Bali’s iconic destinations, including the Gili Islands and Nusa Lembongan, ensuring a holistic experience of the region.
• All-Inclusive Packages : Their tours include all activities, transport, and accommodations, making the trip hassle-free and enjoyable.
• Focus on Solo and Young Travellers : The tours are ideal for solo travellers and young adults, offering a mix of adventure and cultural exploration.
• Unique Activities : Activities range from snorkelling with turtles, surfing lessons, sunrise walks on Mt Batur, to cooking classes and exploring local markets.
• Small Group Tours : Ensuring a more intimate and personalised experience, their tours cater to small groups, enhancing social interactions and personal attention.

Bali Bucket List Tours stands out for its focus on creating an authentic Bali experience that goes beyond the typical tourist trail. Their commitment to providing all-inclusive, well-organised tours that cater to the adventurous spirit of young and solo travellers makes them a top choice among the best travel tour companies for young adults. The blend of adventure, culture, relaxation, and the chance to meet like-minded travellers aligns perfectly with the desires of young professionals looking for a unique travel experience in Bali.

Their approach to tourism, focusing on both popular and hidden destinations, positions them well among the most popular and recommended tour companies for those looking to explore Bali and its surrounding islands.

Check out these popular Bali Bucket List tours for April

Bali bucket list original 10 day tour, bali bucket list boutique 10 day tour, 4 day yoga retreat staying bamboo bungalows with private gardens, nusa lembongan, 4 day yoga & surf holiday in bamboo bungalows with private gardens in nusa lembongan, bali, 7 day relaxing yoga holiday in bamboo bungalows with private gardens in nusa lembongan, bali, how to book a trip with these tour companies.

Using the links above, you can book your trip directly on the website of one of these tour companies. Alternatively, your tour with most of these operators can be booked securely on TourRadar . TourRadar is the largest online travel site in the world. TourRadar gives travellers the opportunity to compare and book unforgettable group trips worldwide, as well as access deals and discounts that are often not available if they book directly.

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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 20 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.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

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.

All travel deals

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

18-to-Thirty somethings tours

On your terms.

So you’re thinking of adventuring around the world? Good call. Sure, there’s no right way to do it. But there is “your way.” Want days filled with culture, followed by nights of just going with the flow? Do it. Want to go where the entire planet hasn’t already been, with free time to explore how you want? Make it happen. Want to travel far and wide with new friends from far-off places? You do you. Because in your life, you call the shots. Make sure you travel that way, too.

Five reasons to travel with us

Travel with an, international.

Going on our tours means travelling with people (22 or less, if you want to get precise) from all over the world. So on top of learning about the local culture, you'll also learn from your international crew.

The numbers speak for themselves: group travel is a safer way to see our world. Plus, our expert CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) have local knowledge you can count on as they lead you on your adventures.

Making it rain:

Not required.

Seeing the world shouldn’t require spending all your savings. With us, you’ll get the travel experience of a lifetime, plus good bang for your buck.

do your thing

We built our tour itineraries to feature a lot of free time, giving you the freedom to explore on your own, with your new crew, or whatever way suits your style.

A bit of this

A bit of that.

Like balance in your life? We can help. Our tours give you a healthy dose of culture during the day, before letting you get a taste for local bars and restaurants as the sun goes down.

Our ears are burning

They went. they saw. they captured.    follow us on instagram, so where you headed, central america, middle east, you’re making us blush.

Sure, we’ve won some awards over the years. But what really makes us giddy is what they mean: that you, our travellers, have loved what we’ve been doing.

Things you’ll get to experience.

Sweet rides.

Travel in style and in comfort on our private rides. Our Landos in Africa have oversized windows for easy picture-taking, and USB ports at every seat. Sit back, relax, and soak in the experience.

So many ways to stay.

Hostels, hotels, homestays, camping — on our tours, you’ll stay in a number of accommodation styles specifically chosen to give you that oh-so-authentic travel experience.

First Night Out

On the First Night Out, we’ll take you to local hot spots where you’ll have the chance to get to know the crew you’ll be travelling with, plus the destination itself.

Big Night Out

Towards the end of your trip, you and your new BFFs will hit the town to celebrate all the crazily-unbelievably-inspiring moments you’ve had together so far. Oh, and your first drink is on us.

Best Tour Companies for Singles

Book your next adventure with one of these options.

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

A recent study showed that the solo travel industry is projected to experience a significant influx in the upcoming years. Whether you want to experience a solo adventure, see the world at your own convenience, or hope to meet new people along the way, there’s always something worthwhile about traveling by yourself. 

Luckily, there are plenty of travel companies that cater to solo travelers to make planning stress-free. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best companies for every budget and travel preference to support your wanderlust—including our top picks for women-only and solo parent travel.

8 Best Tour Companies for Singles of 2024

• Best Experience: Exodus Travels
• Best for Ages 35-50: El Camino Travel
• Best Sustainable: G Adventures
• Best for True Solo Travel: Black Tomato
• Best for Ages 25-39: For The Love of Travel
• Best for 50+: Overseas Adventure Travel Rates
• Best Female: Wild Women Expeditions
• Best for Solo Parent Travel: Intrepid Travel

Best Experience : Exodus Travels

Courtesy of Exodus Travels

Traveling solo on an Exodus Travels group trip means access to self-guided and guided excursions around the world for every type of traveler. Choose a walking wine holiday in Portugal or explore Egypt via cruise boat and sleeper train, for example. Additionally, its Exodus Edits collection offers shorter itineraries of up to five days and is geared towards travelers in their 30s and 40s—though they’re ideal for anyone looking for more vigorous activity such as ziplining and surfing in Costa Rica or sampling street eats and beach hopping in Sicily. 

There is no single supplement fee when you room with a fellow traveler, and chances are you may end up with your own room anyway. Booking a travel itinerary with UK-based Exodus Travels includes a full refund should the company need to cancel your trip and a complimentary trip transfer to another tour or different person up to 21 days before the scheduled trip. Plus, travelers who book their third or more trips with Exodus receive a 5 percent discount on their next booking.

What’s more, the company works to curate trips that align with a number of United Nations sustainable development goals including goals for responsible consumption and production, empowering local communities, and climate action considerations. Exodus Travels (founded in 1974) was awarded Best Operator in National Geographic Traveller’s sixth annual Reader Awards in 2021.

Best for Ages 35-50 : El Camino Travel

Courtesy of Encounter Travel

According to El Camino Travel ’s founder, Katalina Mayorga, elder millennials are their strongest customer base. That means if you were born between 1980 and 1985 approximately, you’ll find yourself among curious, like-minded solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in destinations like Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, and the Eastern European nation of Georgia. Some trips even add a professional photographer to capture shareable shots so you can remain in the moment.

All of El Camino’s guided, small group trips max out at 12 participants. They’re also curated with an ethos of preserving and protecting local culture, the environment, and communities. For example, some of their partners include the Environmental Research Institute Charlotteville in Tobago and La Sierra Artist Residency in Santa Marta, Colombia.

Best Sustainable : G Adventures

Courtesy of Intrepid Travel

G Adventures is particularly known for its sustainable, responsible ethos. The company works with small, locally-owned hotels and operators to ensure your travel dollars benefit the community you’re visiting; outlines policies around child and animal welfare practices; aims to reduce single-use plastics, and works to ensure experiences taking place in Indigenous communities align with community goals.

Founded in 1990, G Adventures specializes in small group adventure tours to a host of destinations from Asia to South America and Africa to the Arctic. Nearly half of the travelers on every trip are flying solo, and there’s no single supplement if you choose to bunk with a same-sex roommate. Or, select your own room for a fee. 

A Chief Experience Officer leads each group tour and itineraries are searchable by travel style. For example, find wellness-centric trips like nine days of daily yoga, visits to Hindu temples, and partake in traditional healing ceremonies in Bali. Or travel with their partner, National Geographic, for an exclusive guided tour of South Africa’s Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and a visit to Soweto township in Johannesburg, the home of Nelson Mandela. 

G Adventures partnered with hostel booking service Hostelworld in 2021 to launch its Roamies itineraries. Its combination of backpacking and organized travel itineraries includes countries like Albania, Mexico, the Netherlands, and Vietnam. The trips are marketed to 18- to 35-year-olds, though like-minded individuals keen on budget travel and communal environments may enjoy these trips, too.

Best for True Solo Travel : Black Tomato

Courtesy of G Adventures

Black Tomato specializes in bespoke luxury travel experiences. For those interested in traversing around the world solo and willing to pay a premium for tailored itineraries, its adventurous or culturally immersive experiences may just be your ticket.

Your travels might look like hiking and biking in Patagonia, embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage through Bhutan and India, chasing glaciers and geysers in Iceland, or learning to cook Georgia and Armenia’s local dishes or Japan’s regional cuisine.

In 2017, Black Tomato launched its Get Lost adventure travel experience. With the support of a dedicated team, and without prior knowledge of where they're headed, Get Lost participants will find their way home from an undisclosed location. The location is selected based on a pre-travel questionnaire about which environment clients would like to immerse themselves in. Then, they show up at the airport and the adventure begins.

Best for Ages 25-39 : For The Love of Travel

Courtesy of Contiki

With 80 percent of individuals traveling with For The Love of Travel jet -setting solo, each trip is packed with opportunities to meet fellow Millennial and Gen Z travel enthusiasts. For example, within your small “crew” of up to 14 people, make new friends doing snow sports and unwinding in saunas in Lapland or devouring tacos and sipping mezcal in Mexico City. Trips range from four to nine days, including weekends in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain wilderness or an extended weekend in Costa Rica where you’ll hike through rainforests, relax in hammocks, and hike, bike, or surf.

According to company feedback, the average FTLOT traveler is 30 years old and interested in meeting new people while traveling . The company bills itself as a mid-range travel company, where “​​we might stay in a more basic hotel for a couple of nights so we can include a Michelin-worthy meal and a private catamaran ride.” 

In 2022, FTLOT plans to offer at least 10 new itineraries including to Belize, Turkey, and Spain’s Basque Country. And for those with the flexibility, the company launched Sojrn in 2021 featuring month-long, themed stays in destinations like Cape Town—focused on biodiversity—and a fashion-oriented stay in Paris.

FTLOT requires an initial deposit and allows installment payments if not paid in full.

Best for 50+ : Overseas Adventure Travel Rates

Courtesy Flash Pack

Overseas Adventure Travel is primarily aimed at American travelers aged 50 and over. It offers guided itineraries to worldwide destinations, including Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and the South Pacific, with trips ranked by activity level and accompanied by a list of physical requirements to help select an itinerary that is best suited for you. For example, their Japan and South Korea itinerary advise that participants be able to carry their own luggage as the selected hotels do not have porter service.

Some of Overseas Adventure Travel’s most popular trips include 17 days of wending the Adriatic from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina (think a walking tour in Dubrovnik, sampling traditional Bosnian food in Sarajevo, and exploring the countryside near Zagreb). On another popular trip, you spend 15 days traveling through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, ending in Helsinki, Finland. All trips offer pre-and post-itinerary extensions, and either waive the single supplement entirely or offer a discount on a private room.

The company offers a free Roommate Matching Program which helps you find a like-minded, same-sex roommate. If they can’t find a match, your single supplement is deducted. Small group sizes typically average 13 travelers.

Overseas Adventure Travel won the Solo Travel Award for Best Tour in 2017 and 2018, thanks in large part to its policy of offering a limited number of single spaces for each itinerary.

Best Female : Wild Women Expeditions

Courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel

It began as an all-women, Canada-based canoe tripping company in 1991, and Wild Women Expeditions is perfect for boundary-pushing women who want to travel independently and enjoy the safety and support of an organized tour. The company also prioritizes hiring female tour leaders and on-the-ground guides. It offers outdoor adventures for women of all ages and identities and with a range of physical abilities (“whether your greatest skill is tracking a storm or talking up a storm, summiting mountains or summoning courage, keeping your kayak in line or coloring outside the lines,” as the company describes).

The company travels to 31 destinations around the world like Egypt, Tanzania, and the Azores islands. Itineraries are typically adventure-based and are filtered on their website by activity, with options ranging from sailing to cycling and horse riding. Imagine yourself sea kayaking and snorkeling in the Galapagos or scaling glaciers in Alaska. 

Most guests are solo travelers and there’s no single supplement to worry about as accommodation is typically in a shared room or cabin. Though if privacy is a priority, you can usually snag your own room for a nominal extra fee. Group sizes are kept small and social with between six and 14 women, depending on the itinerary you choose. The average group size is eight. 

Wild Women Expeditions also takes care to curate trips that avoid or minimize the disturbance of wildlife; supports environmental education and advocacy projects; and partners with social justice and women’s rights organizations.

Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best women-only adventure travel companies .

Best for Solo Parent Travel : Intrepid Travel

Courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Intrepid ’s family-themed holidays welcome adults traveling with children, including solo parents looking to travel with their kids without the stress of planning and coordinating a trip. Since each family’s travel needs and preferences are different, every itinerary includes an “essential trip information” section where Intrepid outlines whether the trip would be a good fit for you and your kids, as well as a physical rating from least to more strenuous activities. 

For example, an itinerary through part of the Amazon Jungle in Peru advises the jungle can be very hot and humid, and that the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. On the other hand, an 11-day trip to Borneo island in Southeast Asia lists a minimum age of 5 and outlines a range of accommodations from hotels to guesthouses and jungle camps; on a few occasions, travel times between destinations range between four to five hours. Trips to Costa Rica, Tanzania, China, and Morocco are also listed.

Individuals under 17 years typically receive a 10 percent discount, and the company requires that adults have at least one child under 18 years traveling with them. As part of Intrepid’s commitment to responsible travel, itineraries support initiatives surrounding sustainability and conservation, climate education, and preservation of Indigenous culture.  

Mathieu Young / Getty Images

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

A Taste of the Sweet Life in Slovenia

Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

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Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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Mexico City

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New Zealand

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Yucatán, Mexico

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Iceland Trek

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Morocco in double-quick time.

If you want to see a country fast, and get a good taste, not just in the obvious touristy places. If you are ready for a lot of travelling and a bit of mild disco...

Camels in a sandstorm

A relaxing and very enjoyable adventure. First day of camel trecking was enhanced by a terrific sandstorm, followed by torrential rain that fell whilst we were sle...

Great trip but some journeys too long

A good trip covering a vast area gave us a good experience of the country. Each area had something different, ,enjoyed the desert . also the Atlas Mountains, only p...

Mules carrying luggage

Although I’ve been back home a while. I still have memories of seeing a mules loaded up with our heavy suitcases. Their legs buckling underneath. A taxi brought so...

Enlightening Tour of Morocco!

Thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the trip. Thought it was well organised. Riding through the dunes on a camel! Staying in Kasbah Oliver and exploring the village a...

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10 of the best tour companies for solo travellers

Discover the best tour companies for solo travellers, from luxury flashpacking to holidays for single parents.

S ingle supplements, hidden extra charges, being made to share a room — sometimes solo travellers feel as if they’re being penalised. Not any more. We’ve put together a list of the top tour operators that offer solo traveller holidays and have adventurous trips ideal for meeting new people and immersing travellers in local culture, no matter their age. And solo doesn’t always have to mean single. Perhaps your partner is unable to travel at the same time or has different interests, perhaps you’re a single parent, or a teenager looking for life-defining experiences. Heck, even if you do have a travel buddy, the trips offered by these tour companies make solo travel look so good you’ll be tempted to leave them at home.

Main photo: on the shore of Lake Pehoe in Patagonia (Getty Images)

1. G Adventures

Best for local culture Founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip when he was just 22, G Adventures connects travellers with local people in the countries they visit and is now the world’s largest small-group adventure travel company. Tours are hosted in over 100 countries and run the gamut from classic and 18–30 tours to wellness, rail and local living tours that base travellers with a host family. Most of the trips do not have a single supplement and accommodation is based on a twin-share basis with another traveller of the same sex. What sets G Adventures apart is its focus on putting money back into local communities and supporting indigenous peoples, women and youth through its non-profit partner, Planeterra Foundation. It supports more than 80 community development projects globally and 90 per cent of travellers visit a social enterprise project on their tour.

2. Intrepid

Best for sustainability Carbon neutral since 2010, an early adopter of carbon offsets, and with its own not-for-profit foundation, Intrepid was started in 1989 by two Australian friends, Darrell Wade and Geoff Manchester. Thirty years on, 50 per cent of its customers are single travellers and it lives up to its name by heading particularly far-flung areas of the globe, including Samoa, Papua New Guinea and the tiny African country of Djibouti. Intrepid also ventures into the Polar regions too, including voyages on the ice-strengthened Ocean Endeavour, which takes 200 passengers.

Best for travellers short on time When the 1970s hippie trail across Asia was in its heyday, John Gillies and David Burlinson drove an overland truck into the Hindu Kush — word spread and they built three more trucks to take groups from London to Kathmandu. That spirit of adventure still informs Exodus trips and solo travellers are eligible to join, with the most popular destinations for singles including Vietnam , Sri Lanka and Costa Rica . They also provide Exodus Edits — bite-size, adventure-packed trips for people in their thirties and forties that are designed to eat into annual leave as little as possible and allow travellers to take multiple shorter trips in a year.

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4. explore.

Best for adventure Explore! is a trusted adventure travel company with tours in all seven continents spanning everything from cycling the Amalfi coast to jungle hikes in Jamaica . Roughly half of its customers travel solo, alongside a mix of couples or friends travelling together. The average group size is 12 and trips are graded from “relaxed”, with more free time, to “full on”, with less downtime. While solo travellers can join all tours, Explore! also provides exclusively solo traveller tours that are broken down into categories for those in their thirties, forties, fifties and sixties, as well as self-guided walking and cycling holidays that solos can undertake.

Best for 18-35s In the summer of 1962 New Zealander John Anderson began to organise tours of Europe out of his minivan and Contiki was born. The backpacking spirit is still alive and strong, with the company catering exclusively to 18 to 35-year-olds and visiting a list of destinations that spans six continents. Seventy per cent of their travellers join trips solo and there’s a strong emphasis on “social travel” — group sizes can range from anywhere between 12 and 52 people — to help people forge lasting friendships. As an added bonus, trips can be paid for in instalments and cancelled free of charge.

6. One Traveller

Best for mature travellers One Traveller is a family-run company that hosts holidays exclusively for mature single travellers, ranging in age from 50 to fit 80-year-olds. Group sizes are larger (on average around 25) and the company provides strong European and Asian offerings, as well as a handful of destinations further afield such as Japan , Chile and Morocco , plus ocean cruises and UK holidays. “Scenic” and “Relaxed” tours cater to those with lower fitness levels and most tours include Vox audio guides for those with a hearing impairment.

onetraveller.co.uk

7. Solos Holidays

Best for private rooms What started as golfing holidays for players whose partners didn’t want to join them has grown into tours for solo travellers on six continents. Holidays are organised by activity: from golf, skiing, tennis and treks to city breaks and cultural “discovery” tours that range from two nights to two weeks and are aimed mainly at travellers aged 40 and above. Unlike many operators, Solos ensure travellers always have sole use of either a single or double/twin room with no extra fees; there is no sharing of twins or single supplements.

solosholidays.co.uk

• Best golf hotels in Europe

8. Flashpack

Best for posh backpacking Married couple Radha Vyas and Lee Thompson founded Flashpack in 2014 after seeing a gap in the market between off-the-rack tours for single 20-year-olds and those aged 50-plus — they designed adventurous tours with a touch of luxury for travellers in their thirties and forties. Trips are classic itineraries interspersed with “can’t-do-it-by-yourself” experiences such as learning to make pastel de nata in Lisbon or canyoning through hidden caves in Slovenia . And with 80 per cent of “Flashpackers” keeping in touch after the trip, it’s great for making lasting friends.

flashpack.com

• Best destinations for solo female travellers

9. Rabbie’s

Best for the UK Although Rabbie’s has now started trips within Europe, Robin Worsnopp started his company in Scotland in 1993 with a single Sherpa van. Some trips — especially in the UK — are day trips but increasingly there are also longer versions. Most prices in the UK don’t include accommodation (although Rabbie’s can book hotels for their guests) and welcome children, while European overnight tours include hotels. What’s universal is Rabbie’s fleet of driver-guides and 16-seater minibuses that can head into offbeat and single-track territory with ease. The London to Edinburgh Adventure winds its way through Stratford-upon-Avon, Conwy in Wales , Whitby, the Lake District and the borderlands of Cumbria and Scotland .

rabbies.com

10. We Road

Best for budget For those in their twenties, thirties and forties, you’ll start getting to know your fellow travellers via WhatsApp two weeks before. Trips are divided into specific themes, including beaches, speedy trips and trekking — all with co-ordinators that you can message directly. At between eight and 15 people, group sizes are small. The “360” holidays aim to cover as much ground as possible (backpacks rather than suitcases are recommended). The Japan 360 trip ticks off all the main cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka plus bamboo forests, bullet trains and the Buddhist temples of Kamakura.

weroad.co.uk

Additional reporting by Sarah Turner

• Best cruise lines for solo travellers • Best destinations for solo travellers

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Must Check Group Travel Companies for Young Adults

• January 26, 2019

This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission for purchases made through these links , at no additional cost to you .

***The Best Group Travel Companies for Young Adults – The Complete Guide***

Travel can be one of the best ways to gain independence, discover new things and figure out who you are and what you want from life. 

But if you don’t have the confidence to go it alone, you may keep putting of the adventure of a lifetime for seemingly safer, more comfortable options. This doesn’t have to be the case.

These days there are loads of great travel companies who have changed the game in terms of ‘tours’, and instead of simply ferrying you around the tourist hotspots by bus, allow you to get off the beaten path, try new things and generally have the most epic time exploring the globe.

Here we look at some of the best young adult travel companies, offering awesome experiences from Asia to Antarctica and everywhere in between!

Why use a group travel company?

While there are advantages and disadvantages to group travel, for most people, using a tour company is the perfect option for their first foray abroad.

Having an experienced company create your itinerary enables you to enjoy the best bits of a destination (not just the most popular on TripAdvisor!) as well as:

• Skipping the queues
• Having insider knowledge about the best restaurants
• Knowing where to find the perfect place to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand!

Plus, travelling with an experienced tour company will put your friends and families’ minds at rest (mums, I’m looking at you!) so you can truly enjoy your time abroad without having to call home every hour of every day!

The adventures you can have while travelling with a group allow you to get your heart racing, try local cuisines, learn about new cultures and best of all, make friends for life!

As you won’t have to worry about where to go and what to do, you’ll have time to be well and truly bitten by the travel bug, meaning you won’t be able to resist planning more adventures in the future.

Most group travel itineraries also allow you to have some free time during your trip. This gives you a taster into what solo travel is like and allows you to gain confidence and skills which you can use on future solo adventures.

Who are group travel companies for?

There are tons of travel companies out there, so whoever you are you’ll be sure to find a group that suits your style. Whether you love hiking, partying, eating or exploring ancient ruins, there will be a group travel company that offers your perfect trip.

The best thing about travelling with a group is that you’ll meet a whole range of people and every single trip will be unique, depending on the characters in the group.

Some will be first-time travellers , perhaps a little nervous or shy, while others may be group-travel-veterans who love nothing more than meeting new people and exploring with their favourite company.

If nothing else, you’ll know have one thing in common: the desire to travel and meet new people. Everybody who books on to a group trip is open to experiences and just wants to have a great time – what’s not to love about that?!

Discover some of the best group travel companies for young adults (18-30s):

Contiki is one of the longest-running group travel companies for 18-35-year-olds, having been planning epic trips since 1962!

With an emphasis on fun, Contiki tours are perfect for sociable travelers who want to make new friends, see awesome sights and create memories of a lifetime. Contiki currently runs trips on six continents , so it’s all too easy to start with a simple trip to Europe and end up planning tours all over the world!

Their not-so-secret formula for the perfect trip includes: unique experiences, amazing accommodation, a top team organising and leading their trips, delicious local cuisine and finally, having groups of like-minded travellers in the same age range.

While allowing you to get the perfect Instagram shot is obviously part of the plan, Contiki also wants to ensure you actually experience each and every moment too.

Getting off the beaten track, meeting locals and giving back to communities are all part of what makes Contiki trips unique.

There will definitely be a fair amount of partying during Contiki trips so if you’re more comfortable tucked up in bed with a book by 9pm than dancing to a DJ on the decks, then Contiki may not be the company for you.

Find out more:

• Save up to 15% on Contiki’s last minute deals

#TravelWithNoRegrets

G Adventures

G Adventures have almost 30 years’ experience creating fast-paced, action-packed adventures with a sustainable and environmentally-friendly ethos .

While G has a whole host of travel styles available, their 18-to-Thirtysomethings trips try to combine value and experience so you can get the best bang for your buck!

These trips manage to create the perfect balance between organisation and freedom so you don’t feel as though you’re just being guided from site to site but that you’re actually making your trip your own too.

While G are sure that you’ll make some new BFFs from all over the world, they also get that not every person in every group is going to want to be together 24/7. Therefore, they want you to have the freedom to decide.

Once you find your tribe of fellow travelers within the group, you can choose any additional activities that suit you. Some might fancy going to a pool party, while others may want a massage, and that is totally fine.

The G Adventures guides will ensure there is time to experience must-see spots as a whole group, as well as allowing for some independence and downtime.

As the largest independent adventure travel company, these guys know a thing or two about what makes the perfect adventure.

Everyone, from the first person you speak to on the phone, to the customer service team and your trip’s CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will be on hand to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime.

Under 30 Experiences

Authenticity is key for Under 30 Experiences (U30X) and they want to ensure you gain more than just a few photographs from your trip.

The company’s founder, Matt Wilson, felt the need to see the world and to connect with others who felt the same.

Therefore, the company was born out of connecting travelers who are longing to explore, with locals who show pride in showing off their communities, traditions, and cuisine.

Under 30 Experiences offer trips to everywhere from Iceland, Ireland and Italy to Belize, Brazil, and Bali so you can have completely different experiences time and time again. Their trips love to put the great outdoors front and centre , allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and power of nature.

While Under 30 Experiences obviously want you to have a fun, memorable, hassle-free experience, they also want you to learn more about yourself and others along the way.

This is why they love to include elements of fitness, mindfulness, and nutrition where possible too! Check out the Live Different Podcast to hear what Matt has to say and to find out of U30X is your tribe.

One thing U30X do understand well is that sometimes life gets in the way, and as such, they do all they can to ensure you don’t miss out on your sought-after-trip due to last-minute issues.

Under 30 Experiences offer a ‘switch your trip’ option, allowing you to change your plans and join a different trip at a later date – winning!

Another awesome bonus of travelling with Under 30 Experiences is that you instantly become one of the alumni, who regularly organise meet-ups to chat life, travel, experiences and goals! This is perfect who never want to forget their epic U30X experience.

Topdeck Travel

To become a #Topdecker you need to be a curious 18-39-year-old filled with wanderlust and the desire to explore new places with a group of like-minded travellers. If this sounds like you, you could be on to a winner!

Starting as a group of mates en route through Europe in a double-decker bus, Topdeck Travel has expanded year-on-year to host a whole range of trips from sailing, ski trips and sight-seeing, to road trips, river cruises and railway journeys.

The whole company has a passion for travel and they hope that through a trip with Topdeck you will be bitten by the travel bug and want to make worldwide exploration part of your life. Plus, by travelling in a group you’ll have loads of new mates to do it with!

Each trip has been designed to allow you flexibility and choice while still remaining as hassle-free as possible. Choose your destination, budget, and style, and Topdeck will find a trip to suit you.

Whether you’re traveling on a shoestring and want a cheap and cheerful camping trip or would prefer a little more luxury with the Hotel packages (no dorms here), Topdeck Travel will match you with fellow travelers looking for the same style.

Topdeck Travel wants you to have the best time so they won’t miss out on top tourist hotspots just to stand out, because let’s be honest, you can’t go to Paris and not see the Eiffel Tower! However, where possible they do throw in a bunch of authentic experiences to give you a taste of local life.

Find Out More:

• Save up to 30%  with Topdeck’s Last Minute Deals
• Under £650 Trips

EF Ultimate Break

If you want to travel but can’t stand the faff of booking flights and accommodation or searching for the best activities and restaurants in each location, fear not, EF Ultimate Break has you covered.

If they had a middle name, “Ease” would be it! EF Ultimate Break want you to be able to completely kick-back and relax, knowing that everything has been taken care of before you depart so you can fully enjoy the experience. As such, absolutely everything from flights, accommodation, transfers, breakfasts, entrance fees and metro passes are included!

To make it even easier (if that was even possible!) they allow payment plans so you can book your trip of a lifetime and then pay it off in chunks as the excitement creeps closer and closer.

Plus, EF Ultimate Break set you up with a private Facebook group so you can get to know your fellow travellers, share pictures and keep in touch long after the main adventure is over.

With over 65 trips worldwide, EF Ultimate Break offers everything from African safaris, to European island-hopping adventures, meaning you could travel with them time and time again without ever getting bored!

For The Love Of Travel

For The Love Of Travel ( FTLOT ) is slightly different from the rest of these group travel companies in that it offers trips that have been specially designed for 25-39-year-olds. Their trips aim to bring together creative millennial professionals to connect through their love of travel.

By having a narrower target audience, it is more likely that FTLO travelers are on the same page in terms of where they’re at in life and what they want from their travel experiences.

While FTLO trips aren’t exclusive or overly luxe-y there may be times when the group decides to splurge (e.g. on a fancy meal or massage), which may not be the case if everyone was a budget backpacker. Therefore, you’ll need to see if FTLOT suits your style.

For The Love Of Travel fully believe that travel can change lives, both for those entering a new country and experiencing new things, and for those playing host to the travelers.

Through low-impact activities, authentic experiences and the practice of ‘slow travel’, FTLO trips allow you to enjoy natural habitats and local traditions while still treading lightly on the world.

Summing Things Up

This insight into some of our favorite group travel companies simply scratches the surface of young adult travel, but it hopefully shows you that options are out there for everyone.

Travel is an experience that broadens your mind and horizons every time you enjoy it, so if you can, get out there and explore the world as much as possible!

Just because your friends or family might not want to come with you, doesn’t mean you should dampen the flame of your inner wanderlust! Join a group, travel the globe, try new things; and who knows, you might just find your tribe…

Related Topics

• Best Group Travel Companies for 18-30-Somethings
• Group Travel Companies
• solo travel groups

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Europe Tours for Young Adults

Explore Europe with other Young Adults. These 250+ tours include popular destinations like London and Rome.

250+ trips for '18 to 30 Somethings' in Europe with 11,099 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Zagreb to Athens: Adriatic & Ancient Capitals

A great fast-paced tour that was well led by our wonderful guide Ivan!

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

The sights were amazing and the tour guides (both Simon Simonovic and Sofia) were excellent! The group of 42 got along perfectly. We enjoyed the diversity as we shared our adventures and experiences freely.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

Balkan Discovery (4 Star Hotels)

Excellent accommodation excellent tour Guide Bayan.. Bus driver excellent 10/10

• Walking Adventure
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

European Discovery (Summer, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Photography

European Discovery (Summer, Start Amsterdam, Classic, 12 Days)

Rome to Berlin: Piazzas, Prague & the Past

Great diversity of countries and cities but WAY too fast paced. One night in Slovenia and Poland was ridiculous and with travel time some days we spent less than 15 hours in the city. The guide was a but inexperienced so we didn't have a good description of some of the cities. Great way to make friends and see cities! Would recommend going end of August or later as it was still very hot going through the cities!!

Get Social: Central & Eastern Europe

Do it. It was the most amazing experience

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Play & Pause: Central Europe Highlights

Croatia Sailing Adventure

I had an amazing week on the boat. Ivan was a great tour guide, he felt like a friend and was always willing to help and always up for partying with us! Despite the weather being bad on some of our trip days he still made sure we didn’t miss out on anything. The lunches on board were three courses and consisted mostly of soup to start and stews. The rooms were quite small just to be aware of but there are lots of communal areas where we spent most of our time. You need to bring luggage that can fit under the bed. The boat crew were also great and had banter with us!

Essential Turkey

Great bunch of people, tour guide was personally involved as part of the group, incredible sights and activities. 10/10 Would recommend.

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

I wanted to explore the Scottish highlands but was a bit worried about public transport timing and accessibility so I decided to book a tour instead. And I was glad that I did! The fact that Branka was there to guide the group, telling us the folklore and history of the sights we were seeing just enriched the whole experience. We were blessed with great weather (your mileage may vary about this but someone in our tour must have a guardian angel looking out for them weather-wise) the majority of our trip and although I am not as fit as most people in the group I still had a lot of fun exploring the places we visited.

Highland Fling

Tour was great overall! Alistair and Karis were great guides. One critique we would make: at certain points of the tour, Alistair mentioned: "outdoor style tours" (hiking trails, camping, etc). While we have no issue with these types of tours, the majority of our tour consisted of people over the age of 60 (possibly not the "ideal market" for those kinds of tours). When we booked the tour, we were unaware there was an option to book a hotel instead of staying in a hostel; my dad and I were both uncomfortable staying in a hostel room with women. After 2 nights in a hostel during the tour, we booked a room at a separate hotel.

• Train & Rail

Central Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

I am so happy I took this trip! I love that there is a planned activity in each city but you also get free days to explore on your own or with new friends. Every city was stunning and I met some great people as well. The thing that made me want to leave a review the most was honesty our tour leader , Cristina was a delight and a perfect balance for our group. She made this trip more memorable then I could have imagined and had great tips for each city too!!!!! Truly an unforgettable experience I would highly recommend. I wish I did the whole Europe tour instead of just central Europe.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mamma Mia! - 13 Days/12 Nights

The Mama Mia tour was well organised and I had a great time throughout. Any hitches due to weather was sorted out , my tour leaders Ginaluca and Elisabetta were fantastic and made the trip fun! Veronica from the team was extremely helpful with all my additional requests. I was a solo traveller but ended up making great friends on the trip. You are with the best with Italy on a budget tours.

Whole of Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

I did the 4 week Europe tour and it was the best experience of my life! Couldn’t imagine a better tour guide than Cristian. I met the most amazing people and the experiences we had go unmatched. I had to leave the trip early and Euroventure organised this perfectly for me. Cant wait to book my next trip through this company for next summer. Couldn’t recommend more ❤️

What people love about Europe Tours for Young Adults

Itinerary - Great. Good mix of hotspots like city capitals, and some lesser known places like smaller towns and hidden gems. Guide - Excellent, 10 stars to both of my guides this trip. Organization - Everything went extremely smoothly, also in part to other travelers being amazing.

This was my first time booking through TourRadar and I am NOT disappointed. My son and I had an amazing adventure and I will definitely recommend and be using TourRadar again. Our Balkan Discovery tour was well organized. Our guide Vijor was extremely knowledgeable and friendly, as was our driver.

More Tours in Europe for Young Adults

• Western Europe tours (275)
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• Balkans tours (82)
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• Nordic / Scandinavia tours (12)
• Croatia tours (40)
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15 Best Group Travel Companies for Guided Tours in 2024

The best tour companies for guided tours in 2024 deliver special insider experiences you simply can't book independently..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

Guided tours are an easy and stress-free way to discover new places. When you travel with the best tour operators, you can often dig much deeper into the history, culture, and daily life of your destination than if you’d gone it alone. In fact, the world’s top tour companies employ local guides, handle all of the details, and often deliver special insider travel experiences you simply can’t book independently. And travel tour groups are a good value, too.

To learn more about this year’s best tour companies and their guided tours, click on any company name in the list below to go straight to their website and start your search. Or, scroll down to read more about my picks for the best tour operators in 2024.

2024’s Best Tour Operators for Guided Tours 

• G Adventures  
• Adventures by Disney
• Grand Circle Travel
• Road Scholar
• Collette  
• Tauck  
• National Geographic Expeditions  
• Overseas Adventure Travel
• Intrepid Travel  
• AdventureWomen  
• Abercrombie & Kent
• Exodus Travels

1. Trafalgar Tours

One of the largest and most established tour operators in the world, Trafalgar offers everything from standard coach tours and small group active tours to private tours, hiking and biking tours, and special interest tours built around nature, history, food, and other interests. All told, Trafalgar hosts more than 350 guided tours in 72 countries and all seven continents. England, Italy, the Iberian Peninsula, Egypt, Ireland, Argentina, and Thailand are some of its most popular destinations. ( Read our full Trafalgar review here .)

Seniors and travelers 50 and older are Trafalagar’s core audience, though children as young as five years old are welcome on its family tours. Trafalgar’s solo travel options include free or reduced single supplement prices for many of its most popular trips. Each of its tour directors has at least three to five years of road experience, and many have been with the company for decades. 

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Trafalgar’s guided tours cover all accommodations (typically four-star hotels where available) and most transportation during your trip, including airport transfers on the majority of its overseas tours. Most meals and activities are included. Trafalgar also offers special one-of-a-kind experiences such as dining with locals, sleeping in a castle or historic hotel, and early entry to popular tourist attractions. Anyone who books a tour with Trafalgar’ is automatically enrolled in its Very Important Traveler (VIT) program that offers discounts and priority access on future trips. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Trafalgar

• Average guided tour group size: 40 guests (standard coach tours); no more than 17 guests on small group active tours.
• Price range: Upscale.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transportation within the trip, admission prices, and most meals.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip transportation, some meals, and tips.
• Primary audience: Seniors and travelers over the age of 50.
• Destinations: Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, Middle East, Oceania, and the Polar regions.
• How to book:  Directly through  Trafalgar or through a travel agent
• More tours: 10 Best Trafalgar Tours to Take in 2024

2. G Adventures

Small group tour operator G Adventures has guided trips suitable for a wide range of travel preferences. The company’s driving philosophy is all about improving the world through travel, and it supports this mission by utilizing local businesses and community resources on its tours. Many of G Adventures’s guests share this philosophy as a core value. 

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The company’s guided tours cater to a variety of fitness levels and cultural interests. Its classic tours hit a sweet spot between backpacking and traditional group tours; active tours focus heavily on hiking, trekking, biking, and other physically intense activities; family tours lean into age-appropriate activities and kid-friendly accommodations; local living tours let you participate in the rituals of daily life in unique destinations around the world; and 18-to-thirtysomething tours let young adults explore the world with similarly aged companions. 

G Adventures also partners with National Geographic for both general tours and family journeys designed to provide guests with an even deeper understanding of the cultures and traditions of each destination. And the company’s one-of-a-kind Jane Goodall Collection of guided tours offers a responsible way to experience wildlife up close. G Adventures offers a unique perk on all of its trips. The company’s Lifetime Deposits program allows you to retain your initial deposit for use at a later date at no extra charge if you need to postpone a trip due to a change in plans or circumstances.

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Company G Adventures

• Average guided tour group size: 12 people.
• Price category: Moderate.
• What’s included: Accommodations, activities, and some meals.
• What’s not included: Airfare.
• Primary audience: Adults ages 30 to 55, but also families and younger travelers.
• How to book: Directly through G Adventures or through a travel agent.
• More tours: 10 Best G Adventures Tours to Take in 2024

3. Adventures by Disney

Founded in 2005, Adventures by Disney offers upscale small group tours to about 40 destinations on all seven continents. While you may associate Disney with princesses and talking animals, a vacation with Adventures by Disney is more about the Disney way of doing things than it is about The Walt Disney Company’s entertainment brand. 

When you travel with Adventures by Disney, what you’re getting is top-notch service, people-pleasing trip leaders (called Adventure Guides), and special experiences created just for Disney’s guided tours (think skip-the-line access to tourist attractions like the Louvre in Paris, special backstage tours on Broadway, or traditional bread-baking demonstrations in Iceland). Each trip also includes at least one Adventure Guide from the host destination, who brings local knowledge and a deep connection to the destination. 

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On guided tours with Adventures by Disney, things run smoothly and right on time . That makes it a great choice for stress-free family travel adventures . Most of Adventures by Disney’s guided tours feature built-in family time as well as built-in alone time for the adults. On some evenings, the Adventure Guides may host a “Junior Adventure” movie night. Other times there may be a kids-only dining table for the evening meal. 

Guided tours with Adventures by Disney include upscale accommodations, transportation within the trip (such as airport transfers, internal flights or trains, and motor coaches), admission prices and VIP experiences, luggage and concierge services, taxes, most gratuities, and many meals. There are typically some “on your own” meals, and pre-trip transportation is not included in the price. Adventures by Disney vacations tend toward the luxury side of the price range: an eight-day Peru vacation starts at $6,199 in 2024; an Adriatic expedition cruise starts at $8,999. In addition to its family-oriented trips, Adventures by Disney also offers private tours and adults-exclusive tours.

Adventures by Disney travelers can enroll in the company’s Adventure Insiders program to receive special offers, including advance notice of new tour destinations.

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Adventures by Disney

• Average guided tour group size: 35 to 44 guests.
• Price range: Upscale/premium.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transportation within the trip, admission prices, VIP experiences, luggage and concierge services, taxes, most gratuities, and most meals.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip transportation, some meals, and tips for your Adventure Guides.
• Primary audience: Families and adult Disney fans.
• How to Book: Directly through Adventures by Disney or through a travel agent.

The flagship brand of the Globus family of companies (which also includes Cosmos and Avalon Waterways ), tour operator Globus offers coach tours on six continents spanning more than 70 countries. Tour styles include small group tours , offered on Europe and North America itineraries; choice tours, which allow you to choose from three or four possible excursions rather than a one-size-fits-all schedule; undiscovered tours that take a deep dive away from the tourist areas; self-guided independent tours; Escapes by Globus , which operate during the slower tourism season between November and March; and faith-based trips to destinations such as the Holy Land.

ACTIVE AND OVER 50: 8 Best Senior Travel Tour Companies in 2024

Globus caters to older adults, generally from about 50 to 70 years old, with most guests traveling as part of a couple or family. For solo travelers, which comprise about 20% of the tour company’s guests, Globus offers single supplement waiver promotions on select tours. Globus also has a Welcome Back Credit loyalty program. Each trip earns up to a $250 credit toward a future trip with Globus, Cosmos, or Avalon Waterways.

Quick Facts about Guided Tours with Globus

• Average guided tour group size: 38 guests (classic coach tours); 20 to 24 guests (small group discovery tours).
• Price category: Budget to moderate.
• What’s included: Hotels, all breakfasts, some additional meals, all transportation, VIP “skip the line” access, and local guides.
• What’s not included:  Gratuities and airfare; however, Globus offers the option to purchase airfare when you book, which comes with free airport transfers.
• Primary audience: Adults between 50 and 70 years old.
• Destinations: Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, the Middle East, and Oceania.
• How to book: Directly through Globus or through a travel agent.

5. Grand Circle Travel

Operating since 1958, Grand Circle Travel is another highly regarded tour operator for adults over 50. The flagship brand within the Grand Circle family of companies (which also includes Overseas Adventure Travel ) offers a wide selection of land-based tours and river cruises for groups ranging in size from 24 to 47 people. 

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Grand Circle Travel’s trips are specifically designed for older travelers. Leisurely pacing and a focus on value are hallmarks of the Grand Circle experience. Like its sister company Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.), which is a top choice for active solo travelers over age 50, Grand Circle stands out as a great fit for solo travelers interested in finding camaraderie and community on vacation. The company offers free or low-cost single supplement fees on all of its itineraries. Grand Circle has guided tour experiences on all seven continents. Land-based group tours average about 30 travelers, while river cruises can range from about 38 to 45 guests. Grand Circle’s loyalty program, called the Inner Circle Club , offers discounts for frequent guests and multiple trips booked within the same calendar year. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Grand Circle Travel

• Average guided tour group size: 24 to 30 guests (land tours); 38 to 45 guests (river cruises).
• Price category: Moderate to upscale.
• What’s included: Airfare, meals, activities, accommodations, transportation, special events, gratuities for local guides and motor coach drivers (land tours); airfare, accommodations, most meals, onboard drinks and house beer and wine, port charges, and gratuities for local guides and motor coach drivers (cruises).
• What’s not included: Airfare can also be purchased separately.
• Primary audience: Adults, including solo travelers, over the age of 50.
• How to book: Directly through Grand Circle Travel or through a travel agent.

6. Road Scholar

What started as the tour company Elderhostel in 1975 has since evolved into Road Scholar , a non-profit tour company with an educational focus that offers guided tours around the world. Its primary audience is senior travelers, but it also has the special and unique Grandparent Adventures , which support grandparents and grandchildren traveling together. Road Scholar is also very solo-traveler friendly—about 25 percent of Road Scholar tour guests are solo travelers. And the tour company has a number of itineraries for women-only tours as well.  

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Road Scholar’s educational tours include all accommodations plus most meals, expert-led lectures, field trips, and hands-on experiences, as well as transportation and gratuities. Road Scholar is able to book airfare for international tours, which allows you to have your travel monitored and supported by the company from start to finish. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Company Road Scholar

• Average Tour Size: 22 people.
• Price Range: Budget to luxury (from about $699 to $21,999 per person).
• What’s Included: Accommodations, most meals, expert-led experiences, transportation, gratuities, and the Road Scholar Assurance Plan coverage.
• What’s Not Included: Pre- and post-trip transportation.
• Primary Audience: Older travelers, grandparents traveling with grandkids, women, and solo travelers.
• Destinations: Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East, Asia, Australia and South Pacific, and Antarctica.
• How to book: Directly through Road Scholar or through a travel agent.

7. Collette

A family-run business with hundreds of guided tour options across all seven continents, Collette offers a mix of small group trips (14 to 24 people per tour) and classic guided tours (up to 44 people). Its group tours start around $1,500, and most guests are over the age of 55. Collette is worldwide travel brand and tour operator with offices in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the U.K.

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From land tours and river cruises to rail journeys, small group tours, and city stays, Collette offers a variety of ways to travel, including optional excursions and pre- and post-tour nights at your destination. And while the company tends to attract an older and budget-focused audience with an eye toward value, many of its hotels are four-star quality, and meals favor well-reviewed local restaurants with generous menus. 

Collette employs local guides for all of its trips and puts an emphasis on utilizing local businesses and restaurants. It also offers community sustainability programs for its guests in destinations across the world and invests a percentage of its proceeds back into local community or sustainability projects. Tour guests are automatically enrolled in The Collette Passport Club and receive credit toward future trips. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tours with Collette

• Average guided tour group size: 44 guests (classic tours); 14 to 24 guests (small group tours).
• What’s included: Hotels, activities, museum and attraction admissions, local guides, transportation, and airport transfers.
• What’s not included: Airfare, meals, and gratuities.
• Primary audience: Adults, primarily couples, between the ages of 50 and 70.
• How to book: Directly through Collette or through a travel agent.

8. T auck Tours

Family-owned Tauck has a simple philosophy: Deliver more than what’s expected. The award-winning guided tour operator has been doing just that for nearly 100 years by offering authentic experiences and behind-the-scenes access to destinations all over the world. Tauck’s century of experience is evident in nearly every detail of its guided trips, which cover more than 100 destinations in 70+ countries across all seven continents.

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The company’s tours are well-regarded for their expertise in local customs, traditions, flora, and fauna. Meals and accommodations are upscale. Its tour guides, called Tauck Directors, come from 40 countries and average a decade of experience each. You can choose from five unique trip styles: land tours, small group journeys, river cruises, small ship cruises, and multigenerational family journeys called Tauck Bridges. The tour operator also boasts an exclusive partnership with the award-winning documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, offering deep-dive trips that explore the themes of his films, including the American Civil War, U.S. national parks, baseball, and jazz. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Tauck

• Average guided tour group size: 35 people (standard tours); 24 people (small group tours).
• Price category: Upscale.
• What’s included: Gratuities, sightseeing and admissions, most meals, airport and luggage transfer, and taxes.
• What’s not included: Airfare and alcohol.
• Primary audience: Adults over age 50 and multigenerational family groups.
• How to book: Directly through Tauck or through a travel agent.

9. National Geographic Expeditions

Launched in 1999, National Geographic Expeditions leans into its parent company’s core values of exploration, science, education, and storytelling to offer exceptional guided tours on all seven continents. From exploring the Swiss and Italian Alps by train to photographing Machu Picchu at sunrise, National Geographic Expeditions takes you to some of the most celebrated natural wonders, archaeological sites, and wildlife-rich destinations in the world. 

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A guided trip with National Geographic Expeditions is all about meaningful exploration of the world and its many cultures. Whether by land, small ship, train, river cruise, or even private jet, you can expect a guided tour that goes way beyond the ordinary. And with itineraries geared specifically for photographers, families ( in partnership with G Adventures ), or independent travelers, you’ll be exploring alongside both like-minded travelers and subject matter experts. 

The company offers two unique ways to travel: National Geographic Signature Land tours, led by NatGeo experts, are its flagship trips and feature high-end accommodations, special access to field researchers and sites of interest, and even photography workshops; National Geographic Journeys, led by local guides, utilize mid-range hotels and blend hands-on exploration with more free time to explore on your own. Many National Geographic Expeditions trips also offer pre- and post-trip extensions.

The National Geographic Lifelong Explorers program offers loyalty discounts for return guests. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from each trip helps fund the National Geographic Society’s research and conservation programs around the world.

Quick Facts about Guided Travel Tours with National Geographic Expeditions

• Average guided tour group size: 16 to 25 people per departure; cruises are all in small ships under 200 passengers.
• Price category: Premium (National Geographic Signature Expeditions); budget to moderate (National Geographic Journeys).
• What’s included: Meals, accommodations, excursions, services of a National Geographic Expert, ground transportation, most transfers, baggage handling, most gratuities (for National Geographic Signature Land); some meals, accommodations, excursions, local guides, ground transportation, and some transfers (for National Geographic Journeys).
• What’s not included: Airfare, some meals, and some gratuities.
• Primary audience: Photographers and families with a passion for learning.
• How to book: Directly through National Geographic Expeditions or through a travel agent.

The budget-friendly member of the Globus family of travel brands (alongside Globus and Avalon Waterways ), Cosmos offers a range of tours around the world but has a particularly strong focus on European tours. Cosmos offers similar itineraries to its sister brand Globus but brings costs down by opting for good-but-more-budget-minded accommodations. While Cosmos is best known for its coach tours, the company also offers small group trips, off-the-beaten-path itineraries in popular destinations, event-focused tours, and Christian faith-based trips that highlight religious history in the Holy Land, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

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Cosmos runs tours on five continents spanning more than 60 countries. Among its most popular destinations are Great Britain and Ireland, Canada, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and the United States. Many of the company’s tour directors hail from the country in which they lead tours, and a number of them have spent decades with Cosmos. The company also employs local guides to help with additional on-the-ground aspects of its tours. Cosmos offers a Welcome Back Credit loyalty program. Each trip earns up to a $250 credit toward a future trip with Globus, Cosmos, or Avalon Waterways.

Quick Facts about Group Tours with Cosmos 

• Average guided tour group size: 36 guests (standard coach tours); 20 to 24 guests (small group tours).
• Price category: Budget.
• What’s included: Hotels, guided city sightseeing excursions, ground transportation, and some meals.
• What’s not included: Airfare, optional excursions, gratuities; flights and airport transfers can be purchased at additional cost from Cosmos.
• Primary audience: Adults in their early to mid 50s.
• Destinations: Europe, South America, Central America, North America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
• How to Book: Directly through Cosmos or through a travel agent.

11. Overseas Adventure Tours (O.A.T.)

Part of the Grand Circle family of companies that also includes Grand Circle Travel and Grand Circle Cruise Line, Overseas Adventure Travel (also called O.A.T.) is a small group adventure travel tour specialist offering guided tours on all seven continents. O.A.T.’s tour group guests are over the age of 50 and many are solo travelers looking to join like-minded travelers on active itineraries around the world.

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Why is O.A.T. is so popular with older solo travelers? One reason is that the company rarely charges a single supplement on its trips. A fair number of the company’s guided tour itineraries also have women-exclusive departures. Overseas Adventure Travel rates all of its tours by activity level ranging from one (easy) to five (strenuous). The company operates more than 60 unique trips on all seven continents. Both multi-country and single-country tours are offered; some itineraries focus on culture while others have an ecological focus.

Unlike many other guided tour companies, O.A.T.’s prices typically include airfare, though guests also have the option to book their own flights. Overseas Adventure Travel’s loyalty program is the Sir Edmund Hillary Club , which offers benefits beginning with your third trip.

Quick Facts about Guided Tours with Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.)

• Average guided tour group size: 13 people.
• What’s included: Airfare, most meals, all transportation, accommodations, activities, and gratuities for local guides.
• What’s not included: Gratuities for trip leaders, some meals; airfare can also be booked separately.
• Primary audience: Active adults over 50, particularly solo travelers.
• Destinations: Europe, Africa, North America, South America, Middle East, Oceania, and the Polar regions.
• How to Book: Directly through OAT or through a travel agent.

12. Intrepid Travel

Sustainable and experience-rich travel is the heart and soul of everything Intrepid Travel does. The not-for-profit group travel tour operator runs trips geared toward young adults, women, solo travelers, active travelers, and families, and it generally attracts like-minded guests who value responsible travel, conservation, and respect for indigenous cultures. In fact, many of Intrepid’s most compelling guided tours make personal connections with local communities a centerpiece of the experience.

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Intrepid offers a wide range of trip styles and themes to suit a variety of audiences: Basix caters to independent travelers who prefer free time to explore on their own; Original tours include a mix of activities and free time; Comfort goes at a relaxed pace; and Premium tours offer the best accommodations, most comfortable transportation, and exclusive experiences. Different themes include Active, Food, Expeditions, Family, Solo, 18 to 29s, and Trekking, among others. Travelers are automatically enrolled in the Intrepid Insiders program with their first trip. The loyalty program offers advance notice of sales and new trips.

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Intrepid Travel

• Average guided tour group size : 12 people.
• What’s included: Accommodations, local transport, and some meals.
• What’s not included: Airfare, travel insurance, and tips.
• Primary audience : Adults ages 25 to 40.
• Destinations : Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, Middle East, Oceania, and the Polar regions.
• How to Book: Directly through Intrepid or through a travel agent.

13. AdventureWomen

The women’s-only travel group AdventureWomen makes it easy for female travelers to explore the world in a safe and meaningful way alongside other women. Founded in 1982, AdventureWomen now offers nearly 50 tours across more than 65 counties. AdventureWomen’s guided travel tours for women welcome solo female travelers, women traveling together, mother-daughter pairs, sisters, and more. Each tour description clearly outlines the required fitness level for the journey. 

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The company’s most popular guided tours include a wintertime tour of Iceland to view the Northern Lights, a Galapagos Islands wildlife cruise by private yacht, and a journey along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. These guided women’s only adventure tours include lodging, ground transportation, most meals and activities, guides, and some gratuities. AdventureWomen’s average tour group size is on the small side, with tours generally welcoming 12 to 15 women per departure. Guests often credit the small group size for fostering camaraderie with other travelers on these guided tours. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Company AdventureWomen

• Average guided tour group size: 12 to 15 people.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals and activities, ground transportation, tour guides (called Managers), and some gratuities.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip transportation, alcohol, some gratuities, and certain meals.
• Primary audience: Women seeking to travel with other women.
• Destinations : Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, and the Middle East.
• How to Book: Directly through AdventureWomen or through a travel agent.

14. Abercrombie & Kent

A pioneer in the world of luxury small group trips, Abercrombie & Kent has been operating guided tours for more than 60 years. These days, the tour company runs trips on all seven continents spanning more than 100 countries. Each of Abercrombie & Kent’s small group tours is run by a Resident Tour Director who remains with the group throughout the trip, while additional specialized local guides help travelers enjoy one-of-a-kind insider experiences.

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Because Abercrombie & Kent is a luxury tour operator, accommodations tend toward high-end hotels wherever possible. Participants are often Gen X and Boomers. Guests are automatically enrolled in the company’s Marco Polo Club loyalty program on their third journey with Abercrombie & Kent. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tours with Abercrombie & Kent

• Average guided tour group size: 14 people.
• Price category: Upscale/premium.
• What’s included: Inter-trip flights, upscale accommodations, luggage transfers, meals, mid-journey laundry services, all activities, and expert guides.
• What’s not included: Airfare to and from your trip destination.
• Primary audience: Adults aged 40 and older.
• How to Book: Directly through Abercrombie & Kent or through a travel agent.

15. Exodus Travels

A worldwide adventure travel tour operator, Exodus Travels offers small group and independent cycling, walking, hiking, wildlife, and cultural tours in nearly 90 countries across all seven continents. Exodus has operated small group guided tours, self-guided tours, and private tours around the world since 1974, and today offers more than 500 unique tours ranging from popular locales like the Amalfi Coast in Italy to remote destinations like Tajikistan. 

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The company’s small group tours average between eight to 16 guests and utilize local trip leaders and experienced local guides. Solo travelers comprise nearly half of Exodus’s guests, who are given the option to pay a single room supplement or share a room with another guest at no additional charge. For those who want the convenience of a curated trip (pre-planned accommodations, activities, and transportation) without the constraints of traveling with a group, Exodus’s self-guided options give you freedom and flexibility to explore on your own. 

While Exodus is popular with budget-minded travelers, the company also offers premium guided tours to some popular destinations. A partnership with the African Wildlife Foundation allows Exodus to offer luxury safaris, for example. Guests are automatically enrolled in the tour operator’s loyalty program, called Exodus Collective , after two trips. Exodus Collective offers special discounts and members-only sales. After your seventh trip, you’ll be upgraded to the company’s Pioneer level, which comes with even greater discounts and perks. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Exodus Travels

• Average guided tour group size: 8 to 16 people.
• Price category: Budget to upscale.
• What’s included: Accommodations, some meals, activities, and local guides.
• What’s not included: Airfare, airport transfers, and gratuities.
• Primary audience: Adventure travelers, solo travelers, and active independent travelers.
• How to Book: Directly through Exodus or through a travel agent.

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