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Expertly Designed

We get it. You’re not the homebody type. We aren’t either. Your passion, needs, and desires have shaped our business. Destination experts hand-craft transformative experiences designed specifically with you – our fellow traveler – at heart. We wouldn't trust your experience with anyone else.

Collette Difference guided touring reimagined

Guided Touring Reimagined

We know you want to explore and also dive in. We’re curious travelers, just like you, so rest assured, you’ll experience must-sees and connect with the people and culture that define the destination. You’ll eat in locals’ homes, take cooking classes, travel by trains and tuk tuks, explore cities with food tours, and stay in igloos, castles, and chateaus.

Collette Difference value

Value Beyond Price

Your time is one of your most precious commodities, so you should spend more of it in the destination, not driving between places. We design tours that spend the fewest hours on the coach. One-night stays are a rarity. This is your trip, and you shouldn’t feel rushed. With choice, flexibility, and free time, take it all in – this is your tour.

Confidently Collette

Travel with trust. Because this is your trip - something you've planned for and dreamed about. You should feel confident in your journey every step of the way.

Industry-Leading Travel Protection

Cancel for any reason (bad hair day applies) up to 24 hours before your tour leaves and get a full money-back refund. Collette issued a record-breaking $185 million cash back to travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experience & Expertise

We've been doing this for a long time. Since 1918, in fact. Collette is the most experienced and longest-running tour operator in North America. You choose...

Traveling Well

Our team is on the pulse of world events and protocols, so you are kept fully aware and feel well-prepared for your trip.

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Service Rating

Independent

Why Guided Travel

You're a traveler with places to go. We'll take care of the details. You embrace the journey.

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Social Connections

Meet a group of people who share your love of travel. Learn from locals. Forge friendships in the coolest places.

Independence

There's plenty of time built into our itineraries, plus optional tours, Choice on Tour excursions, and more. It's your trip, your way.

Expertly Planned

You know what you want to see and do - let a team of experts handle all the details from the must-sees to centrally-located accommodations and local lessons.

The Best Pacing

Don’t rush – this is your time to see the world. Get more time in the destination, and enjoy an ideal balance of included excursions and free time.

Our Best Moments

When you go, capture all those incredible moments, and use the hashtag #GoCollette so that we can share your joy!

2023 travel weekly readers choice

Featured Tours

Collette travelers choose from 160 tours across all 7 continents, as well as 5 travel styles including small group touring and destination spotlights. Check out some trending tours for inspiration on your next adventure.

Explorations

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Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside featuring Italy's Charming Hill Towns

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African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

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Alaska's Northern Lights

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Winter in Croatia featuring Plitvice Lakes and the Adriatic Coast

$4,949 pp* $5,399 pp.

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Icelandic Adventure

$2,699 pp* $2,999 pp.

a tour group

Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio National Park

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Mediterranean Coastal Journey Spain, France & Italy

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Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana

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The Best of Ireland featuring the Wild Atlantic Way

$3,299 pp* $3,699 pp, historical greenbrier featuring washington d.c. & williamsburg, spotlight on northern italy featuring venice, verona & the dolomites.

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Spain's Costa del Sol & Madrid

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Organize a travel group

What’s better than traveling the world? Doing it for free. Our Group Coordinator program lets you share your passion for travel (and food, and history) with others—plus awesome perks, including a free spot on tour for every six travelers who join you.

How it works

Our Group Coordinator community is a diverse crew with one thing in common—a passion for sharing the world with others. Whether you’re the person in your circle who plans all the fun, a leader of your book club looking to visit the setting of your favorite novel, or a lifelong educator, you could be the perfect fit. Here’s how we can help you make your travel dreams a reality.

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We’ll match you with a Tour Consultant who’ll share the details of becoming a Group Coordinator and help you plan your trip. Count on them for help every step of the way. Call us at 1-800-438-7672 to get started.

a tour group

Choose from 200+ immersive, guided tours with curated itineraries that your group members will love (Spoiler alert: They’re all pretty dreamy.) We take care of everything, from accommodations to zip lining.

a tour group

The more travelers you recruit, the more rewards you’ll pile up. (It takes effort, but we’re here to help you succeed.) So, invite friends, family, neighbors—anyone with an appetite for adventure—to hit the road with you.

a tour group

Enjoy all the sightseeing and pasta-twirling—and do it all over again thanks to our travel rewards . Our community is here to help you dream up a travel program you (and your travelers) will keep coming back to.

Rewards and perks you won’t get anywhere else

Inspiring fellow travelers and stoking their travel fire is half the fun of being a Group Coordinator. It’s also real work that we love to reward. That’s why we offer our Group Coordinators the best travel loyalty program and perks out there (and tons of resources and support to make it all happen).

Free spot on tour

For every six travelers you bring, you’ll earn a free spot on tour—with no limit to the number of free spaces you can earn or tours you can take. You won’t find this offer anywhere else.

Personalized benefits that go far (just like our 200+ expertly planned guided trips)

Earn commission.

We’ll help you find the commission structure that makes the most sense (and fun) for the program you want to build. Flexibility is built in.

Discounts you can share

Sweeten the deal for your travelers with discounts on tours, as well as unforgettable add-ons. Did someone say sunset Santorini cruise?

Stellar rewards that add up fast

Our unmatched loyalty program, Global Rewards , lets you earn points to redeem on Convention Tours, on-tour experiences, and more.

Exclusive Convention Tours

We design special trips—to spectacular places—just for Group Coordinators, so you can swap everything from travel stories to recruiting strategies.

Meet some of our Group Coordinators

The fun friend who plans themed movie nights and hosts epic dinners. The bon vivant who lives for bringing people together. The adventurer who’s always dreaming up a new escape, whether to the next town over or a time zone half a world away. These are a few of the folks who make up our Group Coordinator community—a bunch of curious, adventurous explorers who share a passion for travel. And if you’re anything like them, you’ll fit right in.

Get to know some of our Group Coordinators →

a tour group

We’re all curious and interested in learning. We love to discover. And we’re a little irreverent. Word of mouth just spreads when you’re all enthusiastic and passionate about the same things.

—Group Coordinator Dan

a tour group

Working with Go Ahead, I can see the change that has been made in so many of my friends’ lives.

—Group Coordinator Debbie

Now that you know how it works, let’s talk support

As a Group Coordinator, we’ll never ask you to go it alone. We’ve got your back with dedicated consultants and mentors (who started out just like you) to inspire you and guide you as you make travel happen.

A Go Ahead team just for you

Your dedicated Tour Consultant will help you choose the right trip, or plan a Private or Customized Tour to suit your group. Your Account Manager will be at the ready to assist with everything from travelers’ payments to insurance options and so much more.

Mentorship opportunities

You’ll meet and connect with our Global Ambassadors. These veteran Group Coordinators have learned a thing or two over the years, and they’re eager to share their expertise—and experiences—anytime you need it.

Our free mobile app

You can use it to recruit travelers, view group members’ account status, track progress toward your group-size goal, and communicate with your group members before and during your tour—to name just a few of its handy features.

A personalized tour website

Share the link to inspire potential travelers, spread the word about your trip, and keep existing group members up to speed on your tour’s details.

Recruiting materials

To help you recruit travelers, we’ll send you personalized flyers, posters, and presentation templates to spread the word. You’ll also have access to the Group Coordinator Handbook and an online toolkit with trainings and resources.

A private Facebook group

Sign in to ask questions, share tips and strategies, post on-tour photos, and chat all things travel with other members of our Group Coordinator community .

Ready? You’ve got this. And we’ve got your back. Call us at 1-800-438-7672 or request details now.

Your best picks for epic trips

Check out handpicked tours Group Coordinators and their crews love, brimming with experiences they’ll never forget. Hot-air-balloon rides high above the Nile and rainforest kayaking in Costa Rica? Built right in.

the pyramids of giza

4.6 out of 5 stars

a four by four vehicle surrounded by wildebeest on a game drive in the african savanna

4.8 out of 5 stars

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4.7 out of 5 stars

a tour group

4.4 out of 5 stars

a tour group

4.5 out of 5 stars

Frequently asked questions

Here are some questions that potential Group Coordinators often ask.

As a Go Ahead Group Coordinator, you’ll earn one free spot on tour for every six travelers you bring with you. The easiest way to earn your free spot is by recruiting at least six full-paying travelers for your trip, but we also offer a variety of other options to fit your group’s unique needs that you can discuss with your Tour Consultant. Call us at 1-800-438-7672 to find out more.

Many Group Coordinators have existing networks of potential travelers. Think: friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, book club members, hairstylists… you get the idea!

Your dedicated Tour Consultant and Account Manager will support you throughout the process of planning your tour and growing your group of travelers. Our team will create a personalized website, flyers, slideshow, reservation forms, and business cards that you can use to spread the word.

You’ll also receive access to an online Group Coordinator Toolkit, which is full of resources that make creating and growing your group of travelers easy.

When you join EF Go Ahead Tours as a Group Coordinator, you become part of a supportive travel community.

You’ll be paired with a dedicated Tour Consultant and Account Manager who’ll help you with every step of the process. We’ll also make you personalized materials to help spread the word, like posters, business cards, and your own webpage. Plus, you’ll have access to an online Group Coordinator Toolkit full of helpful resources, info, and advice about getting travelers to join you on tour. Give us a call at 1-800-438-7672 to get started.

Choosing EF Go Ahead Tours means exploring the world on expertly-planned guided tours, sharing your travels with others, and earning rewards along the way. We’re backed by over 55 years of experience and the EF Education First global network, educational heritage, and local-everywhere expertise.

As a Group Coordinator, you’ll:

  • Earn the industry’s best benefits, including free travel
  • Enjoy the perks of Global Rewards , our industry-leading loyalty program
  • Be part of a supportive community of passionate travelers & Go Ahead staff
  • Travel the world on culturally immersive tours guided by experts

We offer more than 200 expertly-planned guided tours across the globe. Each includes staff-vetted hotels, comfortable transportation, sightseeing with local guides, authentic meals, an expert Tour Director, and much more. There are a few different ways you can join us to explore the world as a Group Coordinator.

  • You and your travelers can join any of our 200+ pre-planned itineraries .
  • With 10 travelers or more, you can make any of our trips a Private Tour . That means your trip is exclusive to your group, and you can choose the departure date that works best for you.
  • With 14 travelers or more, you can dream up your own Customized Tour tailored to your group’s interests.

We partner with organizations looking to make a difference in their members’ lives, whether it’s on alumni travel tours, trips with local banks, special interest tours through community organizations, or spiritual tours through religious organizations.

We offer flexible benefits packages so you can choose what works best. You can generate revenue for your organization, earn a free spot on tour for a community leader, or create a custom benefits package that suits your group’s needs. Read more about our corporate partnerships .

Deals of the Week   Mediterranean Magic   Up to 50% OFF

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Group Tours & Trips

Encompassing everything from all-inclusive river cruises right down to quick  camping getaways , it's safe to say that group tours have gotten a serious upgrade! From luxury feature stays in  European castles  and private dinner shows, to  budget safaris  that perfectly encapsulate the very essence of adventure. Wherever it may be, a group trip guarantees a hassle-free experience with travellers who are just as excited as you are.

6201 reviews on

Over 250 Group Vacation Packages with 114,453 Reviews

Bali Bucket List Original 10 Day Tour

Bali Bucket List Original 10 Day Tour

The Magic of Morocco Tour 9 days From Casablanca

The Magic of Morocco Tour 9 days From Casablanca

Spirits Of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand In 16 Days

Spirits Of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand In 16 Days

Magic of Egypt (with free All inclusive upgrade hurghada hotel) 12 Days

Magic of Egypt (with free All inclusive upgrade hurghada hotel) 12 Days

Amazing Vietnam Super Save Package In 11 Days

Amazing Vietnam Super Save Package In 11 Days

What to expect on a group adventure.

Looking to trek alongside local sherpas to reach Everest Base Camp ? We’ve got an organised group adventure for that. Prefer to spend ten days in Basque Country learning to surf and savouring the seafood? Just filter our search menu by Spain! The point is, modern-day group travel has evolved to provide you with the kind of authentic life-enriching experiences you deserve. They're anything and everything you want them to be - from a luxury Danube river cruise right down to roughin' it under the starry Outback skies.

an elderly Italian woman welcoming you into her home

Knowledgeable local guides

A guide is your personal historian, therapist, accountant, event manager, a foreign currency expert and professional friend. Guides are the very definition of “going the extra mile.” Whether you have a free evening in Paris or are trying to decide between sandboarding or skydiving in Mossel Bay , your guide is there to offer unique recommendations and insights that only a local would know.

a group of traveller celebrating new year together on tour

Unexpected connections

Group adventures guarantee good times with a new group of friends; sharing experiences with like-minded individuals is a major highlight of touring! For travellers setting out on a small group adventure, there are still plenty of opportunities to make connections with other visitors and locals alike - striking up conversations and forging bonds is easier when you're sharing similar experiences!

a tour group on an adventure together

Hassle-free travel

An organised adventure takes the hassle out of planning since every detail is sorted out before you even arrive in your starting city. With transportation, accommodation, most meals and sightseeing included, there’s very little left to coordinate and plan. You’ll enjoy effortlessly moving from point A to B, without having to worry how far away the next gas station is or if you just took a wrong turn.

a group of people staring out infront of an illuminated city skyline in the United States

No dull moments

When you travel on your own, you often find yourself face deep in maps and guidebooks. If you’ve rented a car then you're spending time in an office comparing rates and sorting out foreign insurance plans. But why spend a moment of your vacation on the tedious bits? Organised group adventures are designed to make even the most routine elements, like a bus journey, valuable experiences thanks to your guide's stories. 

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For a personal touch...

Perks of small group travel, top destinations for a group adventure.

view of the golden sunset behind the river nile in egypt

1,116 Tours

From the  Red Sea  resort of Hurghada to the iconic facade of Abu Simbel, a group Egyptian  adventure delves deep into the ancient history of this Land of Pharaohs. Discover the treasures of King Tut in Cairo, wander through the Great Pyramids, get lost in the library of  Alexandria  or learn of legends gone by at the  Valley of the Kings .

a couple of friends cycling together next to the roman colosseum

1,045 Tours

Explore the colourful towns of the  Amalfi Coast , visit vast volcanoes in  Sicily , or be surprised by delights around every corner in  Rome . It's no surprise that group adventures through Italy have made their way into every traveller's heart. Bask on the blue Mediterranean shores, hike to unbeatable views in  the Dolomites  or sample the finest wines in Tuscany.

two people diving together next to bright coral in thailand

Cycle  through the rice fields of Chiang Mai, embark on an adventure in Kanchanaburi, or cook Pad Thai like the locals in Phuket - there's nothing quite like a group  Thai adventure . With a fascinating culture, delicacies the world can't get enough of and beaches you can't wait to escape to, there's no wonder this is the Land of Smiles.

two friends admiring the view of new york city from above

1,071 Tours

From the remote wilderness of  Alaska  to vibrant  New York , an American group vacation is what you make it. Discover  Hawaii 's volcanic wonders, satisfy your inner child in  Florida 's theme parks, be lost for words on the  Golden Gate Bridge , or enjoy a laid-back cruise along the  Mississippi . 

a man and a woman kayaking off the tropical coast of australia

Walk through the vibrant alleyways of  Melbourne , go swimming with bountiful marine life in the  Great Barrier Reef , or enjoy a sensational dinner cruise on  Sydney Harbour . With diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures, an Australian group adventure and the mountains of  New Zealand  would create the trip of a lifetime.

the colourful houses on the coastline of tenerife

Set your sights on the evocative  Alhambra Palace , indulge in tapas and Flamenco dancing at a fiesta, or view the visionary works of Picasso in  Madrid . Pair your group tour of Spain with  Portugal  for an adventure that promises rich history, unbeatable arts scenes, and friendly faces.

Group Travel, Your Way

With thousands of group adventures all around the world, the possibilities are endless...

20,077 Tours

7,479 Tours

14,225 Tours

River Cruise

2,618 Tours

Food & Drink

  • Tanzania (1880)
  • Egypt (1116)
  • Morocco (804)
  • Kenya (724)
  • Uganda (377)
  • South Africa (369)
  • Namibia (195)
  • Madagascar (145)
  • Botswana (145)
  • Rwanda (75)
  • Zimbabwe (47)
  • Zambia (44)
  • Tunisia (28)
  • Cape Verde (21)
  • Senegal (20)
  • Seychelles (14)
  • Mauritania (12)
  • Mauritius (11)
  • Mozambique (10)
  • Algeria (10)
  • Ivory Coast (7)
  • Sao Tome and Principe (5)
  • Nepal (2884)
  • India (2109)
  • Vietnam (1537)
  • Sri Lanka (490)
  • China (484)
  • Japan (344)
  • Thailand (342)
  • Indonesia (227)
  • Jordan (225)
  • Israel (219)
  • Bhutan (198)
  • Cambodia (176)
  • Mongolia (152)
  • Pakistan (107)
  • United Arab Emirates (86)
  • Malaysia (78)
  • South Korea (71)
  • Georgia (67)
  • Saudi Arabia (55)
  • Armenia (54)
  • Uzbekistan (47)
  • Philippines (44)
  • Maldives (41)
  • Azerbaijan (35)
  • Kyrgyzstan (32)
  • Taiwan (23)
  • Cyprus (20)
  • Lebanon (10)
  • Kazakhstan (8)
  • Tajikistan (6)
  • Turkmenistan (6)

Australia/Oceania

  • Australia (603)
  • New Zealand (312)
  • Papua New Guinea (26)
  • Vanuatu (5)
  • French Polynesia (5)
  • Italy (1045)
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  • France (716)
  • Germany (633)
  • Turkey (608)
  • Spain (557)
  • Croatia (404)
  • Portugal (287)
  • Ireland (253)
  • Iceland (233)
  • England (188)
  • Scotland (186)
  • Austria (179)
  • Romania (143)
  • Albania (117)
  • Netherlands (105)
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  • Bosnia (87)
  • Switzerland (66)
  • Poland (52)
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  • Bulgaria (48)
  • Czech Republic (39)
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  • Serbia (17)
  • Macedonia (16)
  • Latvia (14)
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  • Slovakia (13)
  • Estonia (11)
  • Lithuania (7)
  • Belgium (7)
  • Hungary (7)
  • Northern Ireland (6)
  • Denmark (5)

Latin America

  • Ecuador (468)
  • Argentina (380)
  • Mexico (240)
  • Costa Rica (218)
  • Chile (172)
  • Brazil (115)
  • Colombia (96)
  • Bolivia (57)
  • Guatemala (51)
  • Nicaragua (22)
  • Panama (22)
  • Belize (13)
  • Dominican Republic (12)
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  • Puerto Rico (8)

North America

  • Canada (453)
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Experiences that are best shared together

a woman gazing out at the African wildlife whilst on safari in Tarangire National Park, Kenya

Searching for Africa's Big Five

a group of travellers sampling and enjoying wine tasting in tuscany

Sipping the finest blends

two travellers with their backpacks about to explore an Asian temple

Discovering ancient wonders

a group of hikers travelling together and trekking up a mountain peak

Conquering challenging peaks

close up of mehndi art on the hands of travellers wearing traditional dress in india

Celebrating cultures and traditions

a woman gazing out over the hot air balloon skies of cappadocia, turkey

Floating high in the skies

Group travel faqs, why should i go on a group adventure.

A group adventure gives you the chance to experience new cultures, both in the country you visit and amongst the nationalities of your fellow tour buddies. With transport, accommodation, activities and some meals all organised for you, you can spend more time enjoying your destination and let your guide worry about the details. Need we say more? 

How many people will be in my group?

This answer will be completely different for each and every operator, adventure style, and trip. Some operators host 48-seat coaches that travel across Europe, however, you're also likely to find sailing itineraries in Greece where each boat will host a different number of travellers. Either way, you’re sharing the experience with like-minded people who love travelling just as much as you do!

What sort of people will be on the tour?

Travellers from all walks of life will be hopping on or hopping off your group tour. You’ll often hear operators talk about ‘meeting other like-minded travellers’, but they’re not wrong! You WILL meet like-minded travellers on your tour, and even if you have nothing else in common, you will share a unique bond and a love for the destination you both choose to travel to - and that’s a fact. 

Can I have my own room on a group trip?

Depending on the tour or adventure style, solo travellers will be sharing a room with other solo travellers, or if it is a hostel tour, then there may be 4-8 travellers in the same room. If you’re travelling solo, then you’ll be sharing with someone of the same gender. Or, if you want to pay a little bit extra for a private room, single supplements are available for many trips upon request.

Can solo travellers join group trips?

Absolutely! In fact, you'll find that the majority of people on a group trip are solo travellers. Some people do bring their friends or family along, but in most cases, your trip will be full of other adventurers who want to see the world and are just as excited as you are. Amazing connections are created over shared experiences, so be prepared to walk away with some newfound friends!

How do I find a group trip that's right for me?

With 50,000+ adventures on TourRadar, it can be hard to narrow it down to just one (or two!) To help you, we've created easy-to-use filters on every page so that you can find the perfect trip for you. Simply use the search bar, select an Adventure Style, or the destination you've been eyeing up to start your search. If you need any help, our Travel Experts are here 24/7 to answer any questions you may have.

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Much loved by our past travellers, these adventure operators know how to craft the perfect group travel experience!

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Nomadic Matt: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Better

8 Ways to Choose the Perfect Tour Company

Last Updated: November 3, 2023

tour group posing with Nomadic Matt during a hike in the hills

That idea of tours being bad is an old and outdated perception.

These days tour groups have become more adept at the changing landscape. They feature smaller groups, more authentic experiences, a better environmental impact, and more local guides.

I love group tours.

Even though I am an independent traveler, I find group tours super fun, a great way to meet people, learn more from an informed guide, go to places you normally can’t, and wet your feet in travel. My first trip overseas was on an organized tour. I didn’t know the first thing about travel and that tour gave me the confidence to travel on my own. It was the taste test I needed to become hooked on travel. Tours give a lot of people time to adjust to the “travel lifestyle.”

Unlike in the past, today’s tours are eco-friendly, cater to all travel styles, over cheap, and make a point to use local transportation and guides. And many destinations (like Halong Bay, the Galápagos Islands, the Serengeti, Machu Picchu, Antarctica, Everest) are virtually inaccessible without an organized group tour!

In this article, I am going to tell you how to find the best tour company so you get one that is inexpensive, eco-friendly, provides local guides, and gives back to the local community:

1. Research the costs

With tour companies, it’s not always true that you get what you pay for. Many tour companies nickel-and-dime you, while some are really good at maximizing value for your every penny. Ask how your money is spent to find out if you are really getting the best value for your money. How much of your fee is their overhead? Are you paying for top-notch hotels but staying in two-star guesthouses? You want a company that is transparent with why prices are the way they are.

Moreover, make sure you ask if there are added fees to pay when arrive. Many companies require you to pay additional money when the tour starts or don’t include park or attraction entrance fees. That cheap tour won’t be so cheap if you have to pay for everything while you’re there!

2. Make sure you are the audience 

Is the tour geared toward older couples? Young people? Families? You don’t want to end up on a loud Contiki tour full of drunk twenty-year-olds when all you want is a quiet holiday.

There’s a tour company for everyone — just make sure you don’t end up on one that isn’t yours. Most tour companies list their guest demographics on their “About” page, and you can usually see from the photos of their tours who goes on it.

You can also tell the audience based on accommodation: if it’s hostels or guesthouses, it’s usually for backpackers and budget travelers; if it’s fancy digs, it’s for older travelers and families.

This is very important because these are the people you’ll be traveling with so you want to make sure it’s the kind of people you are traveling with. I’m still friends with the people from my first tour in 2003 because they were people like me. The tour in Japan that was filled with older families? Not so much. We didn’t have much in common. Wonderful people but we didn’t connect.

So, I always look for tours that have my demographic in them.

3. Get local guides

Guides can make or break your trip. They are going to explain everything to you and keep the flow of the tour going. I don’t want them hiring some young kid, non-expert, or someone who doesn’t know the place well. I’ve been on tours where the guide was a walking encyclopedia, and on somewhere the guide was a glorified timekeeper.

Make sure the company uses knowledgeable, local guides. The guide should be a local or at least a long-term resident, know the local language, have travel experience, and know life-saving techniques.

If you are unsure about the guides, call the customer service line and ask them about their guides.

4. Safety record 

Make sure the company follows all the proper safety requirements and is accredited by the local government, the government where they are registered, and any other appropriate trade organizations.

5. A balanced schedule 

You’re paying for them to fill most of your day. How do they do that? Are they doing that? Do they have a lot of activities organized, or do they leave you to your own devices?

That said, you don’t want a schedule that is crammed with things to do. Make sure you get a schedule of all the activities and pick a tour that is balanced. Running around will leave you wishing you had a holiday from your holiday, but you don’t want to be sitting around all day, either.

I love taking small group tours because they generally have a good balance. Any tour that requires you to be on a huge bus and hits 6 cities in 5 days is not a tour to take!

6. Environmental impact

There’s a growing trend among travelers called ecotourism . It’s about more responsible travel, not only toward the environment but also toward the locals in an area. This means using local guides, hotels, and services, and making sure to reduce waste and your footprint on the local habitat.

Moreover, these companies tend to offer better and more interactive tours that also give you a good degree of autonomy.

I think it’s important to pick a company that provides great value and gives back to the place you are visiting. After all, did you go there to ruin it for others? Doubtful.

Check with groups like the International Ecotourism Society for a list of companies that have been certified “eco-friendly.” With so much money pouring into the industry now, you have a lot of companies fraudulently saying they practice ecotourism but end up being involved in terrible labor practices, animal abuse, and waste.

7. Group size

Tour companies that have smaller groups tend to be much more mindful of the environment and the impact they are leaving. It’s a lot easier to meet people in a group of 10-15 than it is in a group of 60. I don’t like to go on tours with more than 15 people on them. However, I have friends who love Contiki tours with 40-50 people. Know what you are getting yourself into, so you don’t find yourself with a group too small or too large for your tastes.

Just remember larger groups tend to stay at bigger, more impersonal accommodations (they can only accommodate the numbers), eat at more touristy restaurants, and tend to travel to more destinations quicker.

In my expert opinion, small group tours are the best.

8. Check their reputation

How have other travelers enjoyed their time? Look for online reviews to see what a company’s reputation is. It might not always be what they claim, and it’s important to find out the truth before you book.

Remember that MOST people only write a review if something goes wrong. Someone might give a tour company one star just because their eggs were runny. Find the average. Someone might hate a tour because the weather was hot. Seriously. These are actual negative reviews from the tour operator company, Thomas Cook:

“On my holiday to Goa in India, I was disgusted to find that almost every restaurant served curry. I don’t like spicy food.”

“We went on holiday to Spain and had a problem with the taxi drivers as they were all Spanish.”

“We booked an excursion to a water park but no-one told us we had to bring our own swimsuits and towels. We assumed it would be included in the price.”

“No-one told us there would be fish in the water. The children were scared.”

“Although the brochure said that there was a fully equipped kitchen, there was no egg-slicer in the drawers.”

“When we were in Spain, there were too many Spanish people there. The receptionist spoke Spanish, the food was Spanish. No one told us that there would be so many foreigners.”

“We had to line up outside to catch the boat and there was no air-conditioning.”

So how can you trust the reviews you read online?

Take them with a grain of salt. You can read reviews on websites TrustPilot . The approval rating should look like a bell curve but with more A’s and B’s than C’s. I look for companies that average 85% or higher (or 4 out of 5 stars). If a company is that highly rated, the negative reviews are probably just outliers.  

My Recommended (Best) Tour Companies

Here are some of my favorite small, day-tour, or backpacker bus tour companies:

  • Take Walks – This is my favorite walking tour company. They run a wide variety of insightful and entertaining tours around Europe and the US. What makes them so good is they get you inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock too!
  • Get Your Guide – A massive marketplace for tours, activities, and excursions. If you’re looking for something niche, you’ll find it here!
  • Devour Food Tours – My go-to tour company for tasty food tours around Europe and the US.
  • Kiwi Experience – A hop-on, hop-off bus tour company in New Zealand for backpackers!
  • Baz Bus – A hop on, hop off again bus tour company in South Africa for all travelers.
  • New Europe – Free walking tours throughout Europe.
  • Free Tours By Foot – Pay-what-you-like tours throughout Europe and the United States. They are one of my favorite free walking tour companies in the world!

THE #1 COMPANY FOR MULTI-DAY SMALL GROUP TOURS

When it comes to multi-day, multi-week tours (think trips through Morocco, sailing in the Galápagos, etc.), I highly recommend using Intrepid Travel .

Intrepid is my favorite and best small group tour operator out there! I really love their guides, their small groups, off-the-beaten-track itineraries, and their commitment to the local environment and community. I always have an incredible time on their tours. They are my favorite multi-day tour operator and the only one I use now (the picture at the top of this page is me on their Patagonia trip). Intrepid is environmentally friendly, uses local guides and transportation, doesn’t rush their tours, and are quite inexpensive. I don’t even consider anyone else when it comes to multi-day trips.

I love tours. They are a great way to meet people, get a local to add value and knowledge, and see places you can’t get to alone! I don’t take them often but I do take them. And, since I follow the above rules, I always have a good time. Some of my favorite travel memories were when I was on a group trip. If you follow my tips above, you’ll never go wrong either.

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Intrepid Travel Blog

How to choose the best small group tour company for you

a tour group

Picking a group tour company that fits ‘just right’ is hard. Really hard. Mostly because it’s impossible to run a tour that pleases all of the people all of the time. We like to think we get darn close, but there will always be travellers looking for something slightly different: for a few more people (or a few fewer), for a younger or an older crowd, for more free time, or a tighter itinerary. Travel isn’t like buying a new toaster. There are a lot of variables to consider (not to impugn toasters in any way, I’m sure picking one is harder than it looks).

Let’s be honest. We’re biased. We think Intrepid is pretty cool. But in the interests of a robust and open discussion, here are the things you should consider when choosing a small group tour company.

1. Group size

best-small-group-tours---Intrepid-Travel

The first big decision. When you envision a ‘group tour’, how many people do you see touring alongside you? Five? Ten? Fifty? The phrase ‘small group tour’ can be (and is) used to describe all of the above.

For us, a small group is, on average, about 10 people . It can range up to 12 or 16 depending on the destination, and go as low as 1 (when the departure has been guaranteed), but 10 is the norm. If you’re after a big bus tour with 50 other travellers and a guide wearing a head-set, we’re probably not the company for you. And that’s okay. There are plenty of big tour operators like Contiki and Trafalgar that prefer the en mass approach. For us, 8-16 is the perfect number to fit into a local bistro, or catch a train, or visit a little backstreet bodega. To get that local edge.

Price is often the first thing people compare when looking at different tour companies, but it can be a little misleading. Because some companies send people on huge tours of 30 or 40 travellers at a time, they can secure bulk rates for their rooms and activities. So you might save $100 or so, but it could mean you’re getting a much less bespoke and personal experience. Choosing a ‘cheap’ trip also increases the chance that your accommodation will be a) a bit lame, and b) far away from the city centre.

The thing to look for is value, not just price. Are there lots of included meals? Does the company list the hotel for each night? If so, check it on Tripadvisor. Are there heaps of included activities? Do you get a local guide? If the tour is ticking a lot of those boxes, it’s usually worth paying a bit extra. Like anything else in life, you get what you pay for. For our part, we always aim for a competitive price, not necessarily the lowest price. We’d rather give you an amazing experience and charge a little more than cut corners to save a buck.

3. Itinerary

A lot of small group tours will share similar itineraries, but there are companies out there that really make an effort to go that extra step.

Generally speaking, you should look for an itinerary that hits all the major highlights (your Kyotos, your Machu Picchus, your Berlins and Ngorongoro Craters) but that then includes a couple of left-of-centre stops along the way. Ask anyone that’s done a bunch of small group tours: it’s often the unexpected places, the ones you’d never even heard of before, that end up being the most memorable. It’s just one of those things. Make sure to read the online trip notes thoroughly to help you make an informed decision, and if you have questions… ask ! Give the company a call and check about that beach stop on Day 4, or the length of the hike on Day 7. We’ve got a whole team of Adventure Specialists waiting by the phones that can help with itinerary queries. It’s kind of their jam.

4. Local leaders

best-small-group-tours---Intrepid-Travel

Our local leaders are something we’re pretty proud of, and it’s a policy we’ve been had in place since the late 90s. Now, the vast majority of our guides are born-and-bred locals who know their destinations like the back of their hand. This approach has a few advantages. One, you get cool local knowledge on-tap. Two, it keeps money in local pockets and contributes to local employment. Three, the whole experience of travel becomes so much richer.

If local leaders are important to you, do your research. Brands like Geckos and Peregrine Adventures use local leaders on all their tours, and they’re specifically trained in first aid and vehicle maintenance (in the case of our overland truck drivers). Not all of the industry can say the same. Try to find companies that don’t just employ local leaders, but look after them too. There’s too many examples in the industry of local guides being paid poorly and receiving no training, just so a company can slap the word ‘local’ on their marketing material. Not cool.

5. Online reviews

Always a great way to check the value of anything. Read what people are saying as much as possible. Our website includes a bunch of reviews on every trip, but if you want to check an external source, try TourRadar . They’re like Tripadvisor but for group tour companies. You can compare brands, see what people are saying, and make up your own mind. Another excellent source of reviews is social media. Check a brand’s hashtag on Instagram or Facebook (#LiveIntrepid, get around it) and see what travellers are saying on the ground, in real time. You can get a feel for the style of the trip, the number of people, the standard of accommodation. There’s nothing better than public validation to put your mind at ease.

6. General ‘vibe’

best-small-group-tours---Intrepid-Travel

As hard as we try to make it so, Intrepid won’t be for every traveller in the world. Some people like cruise ships and big bus tours. Some travellers prefer seven swimming pools, marble bench tops and a fully stocked minibar. That’s never going to be us. And that’s okay. You’ve got to find a company that you gel with. Whose vibe feels right. The quickest way to work this out? Go on the website. Read the blog. See how the tour company speaks and how they act. Do they have a good responsible travel policy ? Is that something you care about? Do they look fun, or a bit boring? Do their itineraries feel generic, or are they pushing boundaries? And you know what, it may take a few tries before you find a small group tour company that fits you ‘just right’. But when you do, it’s a good feeling, and you’ll know the search was worth it.

7. Responsible travel policies

‘Greenwashing’ is a popular practice in travel, as it is in all industries at the moment. It basically means travel companies using words like ‘ethical’ and ‘responsible’ as a nod to doing the right thing, without actually changing anything fundamental about the way they do business. At Peregrine, we don’t do greenwashing.  Responsible travel was part of our DNA from the beginning. It’s why we carbon offset all our trips (as well as our offices around the world). It’s why we invest money back into not-for-profits and community groups through The Intrepid Foundation. It’s why we took a stance on banning elephant rides and orphanage tours from our trips. If being a responsible traveller matters to you, do your research before you book. A lot of companies will spell out their policies loud and proud on their websites. Pick the one that resonates best with you.

Want to know if Intrepid is the right fit for you? See what we’re all about . 

Feature image c/o The Common Wanderer . 

How to choose the best small group tour company for you - Intrepid Travel

Feeling inspired?

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James Shackell

I was born in 1987 and aged from there. I like the sound of pop-rocks and dislike the sound of styrofoam. The length of my forearm is approximately the same as the length of my shin. My favourite Beatle is Ringo. I believe that junk food tastes so good because it’s bad for you and that your parents did the best job they knew how to do. If Johnny Cash wrote a song about my travels it would be called ‘I’ve been to several places but still have many other destinations on my to-do list, man’. Sometimes I have trouble finishing sen

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Tour Scoop

10 Things to Know Before Your First Group Tour

It's going to be great. here's where to start..

Megan duBois

Review: EF Go Ahead’s Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany with America’s Test Kitchen

From  family travel adventures  to  senior travel  to  women-only tours , group tours are a great way to see some of the most amazing places in the world. Not only does traveling with an organized tour allow you behind-the-scenes access to tourist attractions and historic sites, it also lets you step away from planning every minute of the day so you can just be present and actually enjoy your vacation.

Before booking a group tour, there are some key things to consider, though. These include group size, the type of travel you want to do and what you want the group mix to be. And after you’re booked, there are other small details to take care of before setting out on your adventure. If you’re preparing to take your first group tour, here’s what you need to know before and during your trip.

Before you type in your credit card number and book your tour, there are some things you’re going to want to consider especially if it’s your first group tour. 

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People hiking on a boardwalk trail among beautiful mountains and a cloud-dappled blue sky

1. Decide on Destination First, then Research Tour Companies (Most of the Time)

The first step for any vacation is deciding where you want to go. In general, knowing where you want to visit (even if it’s just the region or country) will help you narrow down the tour companies to choose from. Not every company goes to the same destinations, and some only go to certain places seasonally. After you’ve picked your destination, then it’s time to get into the fun part of comparing itineraries from tour companies.

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One caveat: If you already know you want to travel with a specific tour company like G Adventures , Trafalgar , or Contiki , you might do this in reverse and choose your provider first and then browse the tours during the dates that work for you. This can be a fun way to travel to places that haven’t been on your radar. Once you’ve chosen a destination and have a shortlist of activities you’re most interested in, it’s time to compare tour companies by reading tour operator reviews to find your best fit.

A tour with a company like National Geographic Expeditions will focus more on access and education, for example, while Adventure Women might be a good choice for a woman-only vacation and Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) would be attractive to active travelers over the age of 50 .

2. Research Group Size for Each Tour Company

Tour companies run tours of different sizes. The size of the group is often determined by factors including where you’re going, what you’re going to be doing, and how you’re going to get around. Some tour companies have groups that are as small as 12 people, while others (often cruise tours) have groups that are over 100 people. Tour group sizes can even vary within the same tour operator; for example, standard coach tours from Trafalgar average 40 people, while its small group active tours top off at 17 participants.

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Tour group sizes are usually listed on the tour itinerary page, but if you don’t see it there you can call the tour company and ask. Each tour will have a minimum and a maximum number of participants. Don’t skip this part of the research process, because group size can have a big impact on your enjoyment. It all comes down to your preference and personality type.

3. Consider the Group Type

Along with the group size, you’ll want to consider the type of group you want to travel with. If you’re a solo traveler, for instance, you might want to travel with a company or on a departure geared to people traveling as a party of one. There are also women-only groups, adults-only groups, and family tours with kids as young as six. Before booking, think about what you want the group makeup to be. TourScoop’s tour company reviews go in deep on group types and demographics by company.

4. Assess Activity Level and Accessibility Concerns

Most tour companies rate their tours by level of activity and what baseline degree of fitness will be best to make the most of the offerings. Many (but certainly not all) companies disclose up front what sort of challenges travelers with mobility concerns might face; for instance, uneven footing on cobblestone streets, non-wheelchair-accessible sights, and so on.

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Depending on your concerns about minimum fitness levels or accessibility, it may be worthwhile to call the tour companies you’re considering and ask them specific questions about the itineraries in relation to your situation. It’s always better to know before you book than to find out you won’t be able to participate in some of the activities once you’re on the trip.

Market in Ollantaytambo on Adventures by Disney Peru tour

5. Compare the Activities Offered by Each Tour Company

If you’re hoping to hit the big sights in a destination, make sure the tour includes stops at the premier tourist attractions . For instance, if you’re booking a trip to Peru, you’ll want to be sure it includes a day at Machu Picchu . Or if you’re booking a group tour to Alaska, you may want to make sure the itinerary has a glacier tour. Even on tours that go to the same places, activities may vary.

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Often, activities are driven by theme, so for instance, a food-focused tour and a history tour of Rome might both go to a major sight like the Colosseum, but other offerings in the city might differ dramatically. Even general-interest tours don’t all have the same stops, so it’s worth it to go over that itinerary closely before deciding, both to make sure there aren’t any disappointing omissions and to check that most of the activities appeal to you.

Group tours that include children often have some separate activities for adults and children , and some activities that are good for everyone on the tour. Activities for families with kids may include a zip line tour through the jungle, or an easy hike to a beach or overlook. Trips that are adult-only often include time exploring historic landmarks, visiting wineries, or taking long hikes.

6. Check Accommodations

Lodging is a detail that varies greatly among group trips and tour operators. Some group tour companies book luxury hotels in the heart of a city, while others stay at more budget-friendly options to drive down the cost of the tour.  While you likely won’t be spending much time at your hotel, for some travelers, the choice of lodging can be a make-it-or-break-it detail. 

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Most group tours have links to the hotels that are part of the trip on the trip itinerary. If accommodations are important to you, take the extra effort before you book to click on the hotel name and do some sleuthing on where you’d be staying.

7. Note How Many Meals Are (and Aren’t) Included

If you’re just beginning to look into your first group tour, be aware that number of meals included in group tours are different from tour to tour and company to company. Some group tours will include almost every meal in the cost of the trip, while others will only include breakfast and one or two other meals. If you pick a tour that does not include most meals, be sure to budget money for those meals. When comparing tour prices, be aware that tours that don’t include most meals could end up being as expensive (or more) than another tour which includes meals.

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You’ll also want to bring some cash for snacks and sweets, especially in destinations you’ve never been to before. Imagine going to Italy on a tour, seeing a gelato shop, and not having a few Euros on hand to indulge in a sweet treat. 

What to Do After Booking and Before Arriving on Your First Group Tour

close up of person using ATM machine

Once you’ve booked your trip, you enter a waiting period that’s equal parts excitement, impatience, and, if it’s your first time to a destination, probably a little anxiety as well. Here are a few easy ways to put all that energy to work and pave the way to a smooth journey.

8. Decide on Your Local Currency Plan

Even if most or all of your meals are covered and your travel expenses are built into the tour, you’re still going to want to have some local currency on hand. Some people prefer to go to their local bank and exchange money before the trip. This means not needing to go to a bank in another country where there may be a language barrier, and you may not have any exchange fees tacked onto your credit or debit card. You’ll usually get a decent but not exemplary exchange rate by going this route.

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Another option is to simply stop by the airport ATM on your way out of the airport or train station at your destination. You will likely incur a small bank fee for using a non-bank ATM (though if you use a bank like USAA that doesn’t have a physical presence, they’ll often reimburse the fee) but it’s the easiest way to get a good exchange rate. Whatever you do, do not exchange money at the airport because the exchange rates are typically among the worst.

9. Join Your Tour Company’s Social Media Group

Many tour companies host private social media groups where you can get great advice and find community with your fellow tour travelers. Sometimes you can even find a group for your specific tour. To check for one on Facebook, type in the tour company and tour name, plus the dates of the tour.

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Whether you join a tour company’s private group or a tour-specific one, these social media groups are a great way to virtually meet other travelers and learn tips and tricks from those who have previously traveled with the tour company. 

10. Be Flexible and Set Expectations

As with all things travel, it pays to be flexible. You’ll have a much better trip if you can accept in advance that you may get delayed at the airport or that the tour may have changes to the schedule based on the closures of attractions or sights. These types of things are often out of the tour company’s control, and they do their best to find alternative activities that are of the same value. If you’re able to go with the flow you’ll be able to appreciate the whole experience more and feel less put out when things don’t go exactly to plan.

More from TourScoop:

  • How to Choose the Perfect European Tour
  • 10 Essentials for Your Travel First Aid Kit
  • 8 Best Tour Companies for Young Adults in 2024

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When Should You Travel With a Tour Group?

a tour group

Some travelers always choose guided tours, while others prefer to make travel arrangements on their own. There are times, however, when traveling with a tour group might be the better choice. Let's take a closer look at some of these situations.

Unfamiliar Language and Customs

Perhaps you have always wanted to visit China or Russia, but worry that you will not be able to make yourself understood or find your way around. A tour group led by a guide that speaks your native language fluently might be the best way to see your dream destination. Your tour guide knows the local area and can give you tips for finding good restaurants and exploring during your free time. You will be able to ask your tour guide as many questions as you like so you can make the most of your vacation experience.

Driving Is Not an Option

There are times when driving in an unfamiliar place is not a good idea. You may be dealing with newly-diagnosed impaired vision, or you may just want to avoid driving on the other side of the road. In some countries (Ireland, for example), car rental companies set age limits that might also prevent you from driving on your own. You may want to explore an area where rental car companies will not let you take your rental car, either because of theft risk or because the roads are in poor repair. Finally, you may want to go somewhere, such as Denali National Park, where private vehicles are banned. In cases like these, a tour group could be your most affordable option.

Access to Sights, Events and Opportunities

If you have always wanted to travel to Cuba and are an American citizen, or you yearn to see penguins, a tour group might be your only option. Some travel opportunities are available only to tour groups. For example, US citizens may only travel to Cuba with an approved travel provider, and most visitors to Antarctica get there via cruise ship or tour group.

You Need Specialized Equipment or Vehicles

Sometimes taking a tour is the easiest way to gain access to specialized gear, such as a bicycle, or a vehicle, such as a tundra vehicle, that you will need at your destination. It is difficult to safely view polar bears without a tundra vehicle, and you can't rent one at the airport. Similarly, if you are doing a bicycle tour on another continent, going with a tour group will make the logistics of renting a bicycle much easier because your tour operator will coordinate the rental for you.

Meeting New People Is a Priority

For some travelers, making new friends is very important. It is much easier to meet people in a tour group, where people must travel together, than it is if you vacation on your own. In a tour group, you will be able to get to know your fellow travelers during bus rides, at mealtimes, and during your sightseeing excursions. Your fellow travelers will want to make friends, too, so you will have no trouble finding travel buddies.

You Don't Have Time to Plan Your Trip

Researching destinations, transportation options, accommodations and sightseeing opportunities takes a great deal of time. If you are too busy to research and plan your vacation, taking a tour might be a good choice for you. Your tour company will make your travel arrangements, and you will be able to visit your chosen destination without having to think about flights, ground transportation or hotel reservations. Many tour companies offer customizeable tours. This might be a good option if you cannot find an itinerary that includes all the places you want to visit.

Personal Safety / Solo Travel

If you are traveling by yourself or are worried about personal safety, you may feel more comfortable traveling with a tour group. You will be able to see the sights without worrying about most safety issues. Be prepared to guard against pickpockets; they prey on tour groups as well as individuals.

Tip: Solo travelers may be asked to pay a single supplement , which could significantly increase the cost of your trip. Consider finding a travel companion or participating in your tour group's roommate-finding service, if offered, in order to avoid paying the single supplement.

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Everything you need to know about traveling with a group tour

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Many of us travel-lovers will take any kind of travel experience we can get these days. Trip to a new city to see the sights? Travel. Boarding a flight across the world? Travel. Trip across town to the grocery store…? Travel. While we love all types of travel here, not all types of travel are best suited for every person. If you’re considering going on a group tour, there are some things you should know before you book!

a tour group

On my recent trip to Costa Rica with Triplegend, I learned A LOT about how group travel operates. I learned a lot about what you can expect if you’re travelling as a solo traveller! If you’re considering traveling with a group tour company, lucky for you I’ve put together this guide to help you decide if group travel is for you, and what to expect if you’re ready for the adventure!

Choosing a tour company

First and foremost, not all tour companies are created equal. I decided to travel with Triplegend, as they came recommended from a friend and fellow traveler. However, here are some things to look out for when choosing your tour company:

  • Look for companies that are established and have a social media & Trustpilot presence . Vetting your tour company is important and your experience will depend on how they operate. Triplegend is established on Instagram, Tiktok, Trustpilot, Glassdoor and many other review sites, and they have great reviews to convince you! Look for something similar.
  • If sustainability is a priority of yours as it was for me, look for a company that offsets the entire CO2 produced for the trip . Bonus if they plant a tree with every booking (Triplegend also does this)
  • Make sure they work with local guides to support the local economy . We had the absolute best local guide in Costa Rica, and our trip would not have been the same without him!

Great. Now that you’ve vetted your group travel company, here are the pros, cons, and everything in between that you need to know before you book!

What to pack

Your packing list will vary greatly depending on where you’re going. There are a few things I’d recommend bringing regardless!

  • Excellent walking shoes – self explanatory, I think. I will be forever grateful for my Sketchers .
  • A pair of water shoes that stay on your feet. If you’re going anywhere adventurous where water is involved, these are essential! I’ve had my Keen sandals for years and take them everywhere with me.
  • Waterproof jacket & bag cover – you really never know. I always pack my Columbia Switchback when I travel. You can find backpack covers like this one to keep your backpack dry no matter what weather you run into!
  • You’ll want to pack light! You’ll likely be bringing your luggage around with you, so it’s best to pack clothing items that can be layered and worn many different ways.
  • I’d also recommend having a look through my 11 Top Carry-On Essentials for any trip ! This post includes items like a first-aid kit, portable charger and other important items to bring with you!

You can also grab your free packing checklist for your next adventure!

Grab your free adventure packing check-list.

This is the EXACT list I used for my trip to Costa Rica, and has everything you’ll need including clothing, safety essentials, waterproof gear and more!

a tour group

What to expect when booking a group tour

While this may not be the case for ALL group tours, Triplegend shows the names of the confirmed guests, the dates and the itinerary in advance. I would definitely encourage anyone to look through the itinerary to make sure that everything is appealing before booking. Triplegend even has a 1 euro deposit model, where you can pay the remainder of the trip cost 14 days before departure!

What’s included vs not included (generally speaking)

  • Hotel costs for the duration of your stay
  • Some meals – typically breakfast, a few lunches and dinners
  • Your activities
  • Transport around the destination
  • CO2 offsetting (for some companies)

Not Included

  • Flights – most of the time
  • Tips – you’ll want to tip your guide and driver!
  • Personal costs i.e. shopping, additional activities, required vaccination/PCR test costs, visa costs

Arrival at the tour destination

Many (if not all) tours won’t include flights in the cost of the trip. This is because these trips cater to world-wide travellers, so flight costs will vary. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, you will need to meet up with your group. Many tour companies will include airport transfer (this was the case for me) which makes arrival SO much less stressful!

Tip: If airport transfer is not included in your trip cost, make a plan ahead of time. This way you’ll know how you’re getting to your first hotel. I always recommend researching the local taxi norms and laws wherever you’re traveling to, and even setting up a private transfer (one of those drivers with a fancy sign with your name on it) to make you feel more comfortable upon arrival! Now, onto the juicy part!

Pros of traveling with a tour group

  • It’s a very stress-free trip in terms of planning and itinerary. Your itinerary, activities, transportation and hotels is all sorted for you before you even board the plane, so once you arrive you can rest assured that you won’t have much to plan beyond your down time!
  • If you’re with a great tour company, chances are you’ll have a local guide . Our guide Felipe on our trip around Costa Rica was THE nicest guide and really made our trip. We learned so much about Costa Rica and the culture while we were there, which is something you might not get if you’re traveling on your own.
  • You’ll get to experience exclusive experiences that may not be open for individual travellers or hard to reserve on your own. We got to stay with the BriBri people of Yorkin on their reservation in the middle of the jungle, and got to cook an authentic Caribbean dinner with a group of women in San Jose that run a community project, which we wouldn’t have been able to do weren’t it not for our tour company and our amazing guide.
  • You’ll have the opportunity to meet new people and other travellers . Especially if you’re travelling solo and are looking to meet likeminded people, group tours are a great choice!

Cons of traveling with a tour group

  • Group tours often come with packed itineraries. This means it’s not the most relaxing trip at all times. If you’re the type of person that enjoys having lots of downtime when you travel, you might struggle with the pace of a group tour.
  • Since your itinerary is planned for you, this will obviously mean that you won’t have agency over what you do with your day to day. This can be a “pro” for some, but a “con” for others if you like to be in control of your time.
  • Not all travellers may see eye to eye! This is a bit of a tongue-in-cheek “con”. It can happen that certain travellers in the group don’t get along, and you’re essentially stuck together for the duration of the trip.
  • It’s not the most budget-friendly way to travel. I won’t lie, group travel can be a bit pricy. This is because you’re staying in vetted hotels, your transportation and activities are paid for in advance and your comfort is a big priority. You can often travel more affordably if you stay in cheaper accommodation and don’t do as many activities. You’d have to weigh the potential costs if you were to travel to that destination on your own.

There are obviously pros and cons to any type of travel. I believe it’s important to know what you’re signing up for when you’re considering doing a group tour! If you’ve taken a group tour before and have some thoughts, let me know below! If you have any other questions about my experience and what to expect if you’re looking to book a group tour, please reach out and I’d love to chat!

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14 Tips for Choosing the Right Group Tour

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Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

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Finding the right group tour is a mix of persistence, research, and a bit of magic. You’re not just looking for a great tour, but a great tour for you . For example, an active 40-something single woman might not be happy on the same tour that a couple in their 70s would enjoy.

Below are 14 tips to help you choose the right group tour for you, including important questions to ask and decisions only you can make.

Understand the Variety of Group Tours Available

Many travelers picture a week on a motorcoach when the hear the words “group tour,” but this is only a fraction of the group tour landscape. Sure, you can book a big bus tour to hit the major attractions in Rome, Florence, and Venice, but you can also book an intimate photo tour of Tuscany or a hiking vacation in the Italian Alps. If you have a dream activity or vacation, there’s probably a tour operator that offers it.

Understand What Type of Traveler You Are

It’s your responsibility to understand yourself as a traveler and to make sure you are the intended customer of any given tour. If you are a young person looking for fun and you end up on a bus full of retirees, or if you are traveling solo and end up surrounded by families with kids, it is absolutely on you.

Comb the tour operator’s website; do the people in the pictures look like travelers you’d want to hang out with? Does the itinerary appeal to your interests? Is there a “frequently asked questions” section that offers information about fellow travelers (such as average age and where they’re from)?

Finally, reading reviews may be more critical for tours than almost any other travel purchase. A dingy hotel for a night is one thing, but 10 days completely out of your element is another entirely, and reviews can make a big difference.

Figure Out the Right Size Group for You

While most folks lean toward smaller groups, bigger tours have some upsides as well—including greater diversity of group members, more opportunities to find “your people,” and sometimes lower costs. The drawbacks include doing everything with a ton of other travelers, which can create instant crowds, and having to take more time to do simple tasks such as checking into hotels and eating meals.

Small groups, meanwhile, tend to move more quickly and can sometimes access experiences that can’t accommodate large numbers. It’s easier to get to know everyone else in a smaller group, and you’ll have more chances to interact with your tour leaders and guides.

The downside? Traveling in smaller groups means there are fewer people to talk to and makes it more likely that one or two strong personalities could have an outsize effect on the overall experience.

Check the Activity Level

You’ll want the physical demands of the tour to match your preference and capacity. If most of the time is spent on a bus and you want to walk around—or vice versa—make sure you ask before you book.

Check How Open the Itinerary Is

Do you feel more relaxed having your entire day planned out for you, or would you rather have some free time to break out on your own? Most itineraries are fairly clear on which approach they take, so look for it.

Understand the Pace of the Tour

Some people want to feel like they’re seeing as much as possible, while others find bagging attractions in rapid succession unfulfilling or even punishing. Does the itinerary have you exploring big cities like Beijing for only a day, or packing three European countries into a week and a half? How many sights and activities are listed for each day? Are there slower days that you feel would be time wasted? Look carefully at the itinerary and read past reviews to get a sense of whether the tour’s pace would suit you.

Research Transportation

How will you get from one place to the next—an air-conditioned motorcoach? A crowded local train? A ferry? A plane? Any of these options might make a difference in your comfort and enjoyment.

Consider using Google Maps or a similar service to check the distance between stops on the tour. If you’re going to be spending four hours on buses every other day to get from one city to the next, that’s worth knowing (and, perhaps, avoiding).

Understand the Meal Plan

Some tours offer elaborate sit-down dinners, while others take a more casual approach or even leave you to find your own meals from time to time. Understand which you prefer as well as what is offered.

Use Travel Agents with Care

Travel agents can be very helpful, but occasionally they might steer you toward tour operators with whom they have a relationship, including incentives to steer customers in their direction. Once you have decided on the things you want from a tour, don’t allow yourself to be sold something considerably different; stick to your guns.

Consider Booking with a Foreign Tour Company

Though it may somewhat complicate your search for a tour company, you might want to consider booking with a company based in the country or region you plan to visit. So long as language barriers are not an issue, locally based tour operators can sometimes offer intense immersion in a place, as you may not only be visiting local establishments, but also traveling with locals.

Understand the Role of Group Tour Guides

Some tours use one or two guides to do everything; others employ different local guides at each attraction or location. Having only one or two guides can means travelers can get to know them well throughout the trip; however, one guide can’t be an expert on everything, while a series of guides absolutely can be.

Understand also what the guide will do. On an art tour, does the guide take care of the big logistics but then release you at the museum door? Or does he or she accompany the group into the museum, providing commentary and expertise on the art?

There does seem to be some correlation between the reputation of a tour company and the quality of the guides, for two reasons. First, the top companies can attract the best people, and second, that very reputation is often based on the experience the guides create.

Look for Experiences, not Attractions

Anyone can book a reservation at a great restaurant; not everyone can get the chef to come out and teach you how to make paella. Many tour operators offer “experiences” of just this kind, which are sometimes the entire reason to hire a tour company in the first place; keep an eye out for these distinctive offerings.

Price It Out

Because of the economies of scale that a tour operator enjoys, it can get many things below market rate. The company might not pass on all those savings to you, however, as that is how it makes a profit.

There’s a way to understand the value a tour operator is offering: Price out the itinerary yourself. See how much it would cost you to book the hotels and attractions on your own. (If air is included in your package, check out that cost, too.)

Many tour customers have found that the price of booking everything themselves isn’t significantly different from the cost of the tour; in this case, it may be worth booking the tour for the additional value of convenience and expert guides. If the cost of a group tour seems far beyond what you could book on your own, however, you might want to consider a different company.

See What’s Included

Things like gratuities, admission tickets, and meals may or may not be included on a group tour. A trip that looks affordable for you might be less so once you add in all the extras.

More from SmarterTravel:

  • Top 10 Group Travel Survival Tips
  • The 5 Worst Trip Planning Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
  • 20 Questions to Ask Before Booking a Tour

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The advantages of solo travel with group tour operators.

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Solo travel is on the rise.

Traveling solo is a profoundly liberating experience. It offers the freedom to explore at one's own pace, delve into personal interests, and embrace new cultures without compromise. However, navigating international destinations alone can sometimes be daunting. This is where group tour operators come in, providing a structured yet flexible travel experience that ensures safety, companionship, and deep cultural immersion. Trafalgar Tours is one operator that attracts a large number of solo travelers.

The Benefits of Group Tours for Solo Travelers

Traveling solo, but with a tour operator, provides comfort and security.

1. Safety and Security:

Traveling solo can occasionally raise concerns about personal safety, especially in unfamiliar territories. Group tours offer the reassurance of a structured itinerary, professional guides, and a group of fellow travelers. This structure minimizes the risks associated with solo travel, such as getting lost or encountering unsafe situations.

Travelers make meaningful connections with other travelers when on a group tour.

2. Social Interaction and Companionship:

One of the challenges of solo travel is the potential for loneliness. Group tours provide an instant social network of like-minded travelers. This social aspect can enrich the travel experience, fostering new friendships and shared memories. For solo travelers, this means not only having companions to share the journey with but also the chance to connect deeply with people from diverse backgrounds.

3. Expert Guidance and Local Insights:

Group tours are typically led by knowledgeable guides who are experts in the local culture, history, and geography. This expertise provides solo travelers with valuable insights that might be missed when traveling independently. Guides can offer recommendations, translate languages, and navigate cultural nuances, enhancing the overall travel experience.

4. Convenience and Peace of Mind:

Planning an international trip can be overwhelming, with logistics, accommodations, and activities to organize. Group tour operators handle these details, allowing solo travelers to focus on enjoying their trip. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those new to solo travel or visiting a country with complex logistics.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, the appeal of shoulder season travel.

The appeal of shoulder season is cheaper tours, less crowds but still plenty of fun.

Booking a tour during the shoulder season—the period between peak and off-peak seasons—has distinct advantages, especially for solo travelers. Tour operators have more availability and the group size is smaller—in some cases half the size—during shoulder season.

1. Fewer Crowds:

Shoulder season typically sees fewer tourists compared to the peak season. This means less crowded attractions, more personal space, and a more relaxed travel experience. Solo travelers can enjoy popular sites without the overwhelming crowds, making it easier to connect with the destination and fellow travelers.

2. Better Value:

Traveling during the shoulder season often means lower prices for flights, accommodations, and tours. Group tour operators, including Trafalgar, may offer discounts or special deals during these times, making it a cost-effective option for solo travelers.

3. Pleasant Weather:

Shoulder seasons often offer milder weather, avoiding the extremes of summer heat or winter cold. For instance, traveling to Vietnam in the shoulder season means pleasant temperatures, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Picking a Destination

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in northern Vietnam.

There are so many places to go, but for many travelers it’s hard to narrow down the list. For solo travelers, picking a far-flung local like Asia, is appealing because it’s something many people want to do but it seems daunting to go so far alone. One of Trafalgar’s most popular itineraries in Asia is Vietnam.

1. Immersive Cultural Experiences:

Trafalgar’s Vietnam tour is designed to provide deep cultural immersion. Travelers have the opportunity to explore bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, visit historical sites such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, and experience the serene beauty of Halong Bay. These experiences are enriched by knowledgeable guides who share the stories behind each destination.

Hoi An in Vietnam is a favorite city for many travelers because it's so picturesque.

2. Unique Insider Experiences:

One of Trafalgar’s standout features is its “Be My Guest” experiences, where travelers are invited into the homes of local families to share a meal and learn about their way of life.

3. Hassle-Free Travel:

Trafalgar takes care of all the logistics, from accommodations to transportation and activities. For solo travelers, this means less time worrying about details and more time enjoying the journey. Accommodations are selected for their quality and location, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the trip.

Vietnamese women selling and buying fruits on floating market, Mekong River Delta, Vietnam.

4. Social Atmosphere:

The group dynamic on Trafalgar tours fosters a sense of community. Solo travelers are welcomed into a friendly, inclusive environment where connections are easily made. Whether sharing a meal, exploring a market, or enjoying a guided tour, the shared experiences create lasting bonds.

5. Flexible Options for Solo Travelers:

Trafalgar understands the needs of solo travelers and offers options like single room supplements to ensure privacy and comfort. Additionally, their small group tours are ideal for those who prefer a more intimate travel experience.

Judy Koutsky

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Roma communities in Perm Krai: historical and ethnical aspects

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Two large groups of Roma are settled in the territory of Perm Krai, the Ruska Roma and Kalderari. Roma live both in cities and countryside. Roma living in the countryside keeps elements of traditional culture. In Perm Krai we can find different families of the Ruska [Russian] Roma: Gorbovichi, Nemzengery, Bashnengery, Polyaki, Sapuny, Gubany. In contrast to the Kalderari the community of Ruska Roma is based not only on family-territorial principle. Sometimes community is based on ethnic-territorial ground when the Ruska Roma living in an urban area despite family ties can be a part of the community. Traditional activity of Ruska Roma living in countryside is a seasonal grazing of livestock. One of the main sectors of activity is trading. Roma sell cars and jewelry. Kelderari live in compact groupings in Perm. They call themselves Moldavska Roma and consider themselves to be part of Ruvoni [wolf in Romani language] family. Traditional activity of Kelderari is metal work (especially tin-smith’s work) which impact also their modern business. The main work activity of men till now is working with metals such as base metal trading and metal items repair. Traditional women activity is fortune-telling. Bilingualism, traditional way of living, ethnic isolation, unique and particular material and spiritual culture are common for all of Roma. The main problems for Roma nowadays are safeguarding of ethnicity and as well as some educational and social issues.

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    Group tours are usually synonymous with big buses and camera-clicking tourists racing through a country. It's about being taken to tourist destinations, cheesy attractions, inauthentic restaurants, and a whole host of other non-authentic travel experiences. That idea of tours being bad is an old and outdated perception.

  10. How to choose the best small group tour company for you

    The phrase 'small group tour' can be (and is) used to describe all of the above. For us, a small group is, on average, about 10 people . It can range up to 12 or 16 depending on the destination, and go as low as 1 (when the departure has been guaranteed), but 10 is the norm.

  11. Group Tours & Group Travel

    We're here to help. Call 1-888-370-2736 between Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 3:30 pm or get in contact with one of our expert Travel Specialists for a free consultation. Get In Touch.

  12. How to Choose a Group Tour: 10 Tips on Planning

    9. Join Your Tour Company's Social Media Group. Many tour companies host private social media groups where you can get great advice and find community with your fellow tour travelers. Sometimes you can even find a group for your specific tour. To check for one on Facebook, type in the tour company and tour name, plus the dates of the tour.

  13. Tour Guides Tell All: This Is How You Should (and ...

    On group tours travelers can get caught up in the logistics, and are more likely to let one bad moment ruin a trip. "You've likely spent months, maybe even years, planning for this trip. So ...

  14. When Should You Travel With a Tour Group?

    A tour group led by a guide that speaks your native language fluently might be the best way to see your dream destination. Your tour guide knows the local area and can give you tips for finding good restaurants and exploring during your free time. You will be able to ask your tour guide as many questions as you like so you can make the most of ...

  15. Everything you need to know about traveling with a group tour

    Cons of traveling with a tour group. Group tours often come with packed itineraries. This means it's not the most relaxing trip at all times. If you're the type of person that enjoys having lots of downtime when you travel, you might struggle with the pace of a group tour. Since your itinerary is planned for you, this will obviously mean ...

  16. What to Know About Traveling With a Tour Group

    All the members of a tour bring something to the table and the more open you are to fellow travelers, the more you'll enjoy the journey. 6. Listen to the schedule and respect it every morning ...

  17. 10 Best Tour Companies to Book for Seamless Vacations

    Group tours are great for solo travelers who want the camaraderie of other travelers with the same interests for shared adventures. The one downside to most group tours is the dreaded "single ...

  18. When It's Worthwhile to Join a Tour Group or Go It Alone

    Group guided experience: If you're traveling alone or in a small group and want a less expensive way to have a guided tour, this is your best bet. You'll have a chance to meet others while still ...

  19. 14 Tips for Choosing the Right Group Tour

    Finding the right group tour is a mix of persistence, research, and a bit of magic. You're not just looking for a great tour, but a great tour for you. For example, an active 40-something single ...

  20. The Advantages Of Solo Travel With Group Tour Operators

    The Benefits of Group Tours for Solo Travelers. Traveling solo, but with a tour operator, provides comfort and security. 1. Safety and Security: Traveling solo can occasionally raise concerns ...

  21. U.S. Open 2024 Golf Leaderboard

    Groupings Official. U.S. Open. Pinehurst Resort & Country Club (Course No. 2) Village of Pinehurst, North Carolina • USA. Jun 13 - 16, 2024. 75°F. Tickets. LeaderboardTee ...

  22. Trains bypassing Perm-2

    Answered: Starting from November 14, some departures of the trains #83/#84 (Северный Урал) and #11/#12 (Ямал) will skip all stops from Perm-2 to Chusovskaya. These trains offer the best times to arrive in Perm from Nizhny Novgorod. May I ask what are the...

  23. Chusovoy Map

    Chusovoy is a town in Perm Krai, Russia, located at the confluence of the Usva and Vilva Rivers with the Chusovaya River, 140 kilometers east of Perm, the administrative center of the krai.

  24. Пермь

    Пермь. From Wikimedia Commons, the free media repository. Language select: The map of city districts. Русский: Пермь — город в России. English: Perm is a city in Russia. Deutsch: Perm ist ein Stadt im Russland. Nederlands: Perm is een stad in Rusland. Svenska: Perm är en stad i Ryssland.

  25. Group

    Group World Leading Hospitality Group. Building on the strength of our teams and of our holistic ecosystem of leading brands, personalized services & expert solutions, we break new ground to reimagine hospitality and inspire new ways to experience the world. ... With Orient Express, Accor is reinventing the art of travel, discovery and great ...

  26. Texas city rejects abortion travel ban

    Amarillo City Council rejects so-called abortion travel ban. A group of anti-abortion advocates must now decide whether they want the city voters to have the final say on their proposed policy ...

  27. How Artificial Intelligence Is Impacting How We Travel

    The surge in travel is evidenced by the fact that passport applications in the United States have increased by almost 10 percent YOY in 2023.Last year, more than 24 million people applied for U.S ...

  28. Roma communities in Perm Krai: historical and ethnical aspects

    A new research stage of the Rozhdestvensk archaeological complex, the largest medieval complex in Perm Krai, began in 2008. During the study, new data on the structure and typology of fortifications of the Rozhdestvensk settlement were obtained: along the eastern boundary of the site at the edge of a ravine an ancient filled up moat and a later constructed palisade were discovered.