Budget Travel Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025
Filter to find perfect
DEPARTURE DATES
Style
Style
Small Group Tour Small groups are usually defined as between 10 and 24 travelers, often less. If you're the kind of person who enjoys more intimate experiences and personal service this is a good choice. All else being equal you will pay a premium for this style vs a larger group tour.
Private Guided Private tours give you the undivided attention of a guide, and often involve special access to sites and unique experiences not available to larger groups. This is a great option for families, couples, and small friend groups. Expect to pay a bit more for the extra service.
Self Guided Tour A travel company plans your itinerary and arranges all the logistics including lodging, local activities, and transportantion. You have the flexibility of a solo trip while still getting the convience and time savings of expert planning. Get 90% of the benefits of a tour, without a guide.
Group Tour Groups are between 25-60 people, typically ~30-40. Usually there will be many opportunities to split off and enjoy meals and excursions in smaller groups. This is the most economical way to travel, saving up to 40% versus booking the same itinerary yourself.
River Cruise These vessels are smaller than most ocean cruisers, limiting which amenties are available. Passenger counts can vary. One of the biggest advantages of a river cruise is the ability to dock at smaller ports and local villages.
Small Ship Cruise Small ship cruises usually have a max passenger count of 500. The primary purpose of these trips is to spend time off the vessel in local ports (e.g. Mediterranean) or experiencing nature (e.g Galapagos or Antarctica). Cabins can vary from budget to luxury.
Large Ship Cruise This is the "floating city" experience, with multiple ways to enjoy your vacation aboard the ship as much as on land. Ships are multiple floors, provide several activities, culinary, and shopping options. They often make fewer stops and have less time available for shore excursions.
Retreats Similar to a self guided tour but staying in one location only with activities and day outings included as a part of the stay.
Price
Duration Dropdown
Travelers Age
Lodging Level
Lodging Level
Camping Typically involves most nights sleeping in tents (sometimes permanent tented sites) or in rustic cabins and lodges.
Basic - 2 star You'll stay in no-frills, but clean and comfortable, hotels or guesthouses. A 'Basic' trip might also involve a few nights of camping.
Value - 3 star Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Premium - 4 star 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Luxury - 5 star The highest level of comfort and service. All accomodations are in four or five star hotels, boutique lodges or high-end homestays.
Physical Level
Physical Level
Very Easy Minimal walking - motor vehicles available for all major parts of trip.
Easy Normal generally flat walking in urban or suburban environments.
Moderate Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment.
Strenuous All or most of day hiking or biking, hills included.
Extreme Very challenging all day hiking and backpacking carrying significant equipment.
Theme
Attractions & Cities Visited
Activities & Interests
Travel Style
Travel Style
Flexible schedule A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Full schedule For those looking to maximize their sight seeing time. You thrive on a packed day’s schedule from 8 am to 6pm, with some (but limited) free time. Most activities and meals included.
Balanced schedule You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Flight & Transport Inclusions
Solo Friendly
Solo Friendly
Good for Singles Trips that specifically cater to travelers looking to meet other singles.
No Single Supplement Trips where single supplement is usually not required for solo travelers.
Supplier (Company)
Countries Visited
Continents Visited
Rivers & Seas Visitied
Stride Gives Back Stride Gives Back This trip visits a destination impacted by climate change. When you opt in to the Travelstride Gives Back program, we will donate 10% of our net revenue to organizations that help mitigate climate change in these destinations and across the globe. Learn more
Real North India

- Capture your best selfie in front of the Taj Mahal – this marble masterpiece and the mother of all mausoleums is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and India’s main icon.
- Get among the relaxing vibes of Rishikesh with a morning yoga class, then sleep under the starry Indian sky surrounded by nature and gorgeous natural views.
- Watch the sunrise on the holy Ganges River in Varanasi for a truly spiritual experience. This is the country’s oldest spiritual city and is known for the Hindu pilgrims who journey to cleanse their sins in the holy water.
- Explore the ornately pink-hued buildings in photogenic Jaipur – known as the Pink City – and if the sky is calling, opt to see the city from a different perspective with a morning hot air balloon ride.
- Navigate through the busy, bustling and bold streets of Delhi with an expert leader who knows all the good spots (ask them where to grab the best chana masala).
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. Donations help them to nurture ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives that inspire coastal restoration, sustainable fishing practices and waste-management.
Real Central Europe

- Start your trip with a bang in Berlin, where history and modern culture dance. If it’s nightlife you’re after, Germany’s capital is home to thriving bars, underground clubs and an alternative scene not to be missed.
- Eat your way through Europe with a local leader who knows all the best spots! Enjoy an included market visit in Budapest, try Zapiekanka in Krakow and find delicious cheap street food in Italy and Prague.
- Discover the magical Cesky Krumlov – you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd stepped straight into a fairytale, as this place is filled with medieval buildings, verdant countryside and the flowing Vltava River.
- Dive into Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Venice and Krakow – with two nights spent in almost every destination, you’ll have time to eat, shop and sightsee at your own pace and not just catch a glimpse from a bus window.
- Step into the pages of a fairytale on the shore of Slovenia’s Lake Bled – home to the bluest waters you might ever see. Explore the church on the island, walk around the lake surrounded by mountains and treat yourself to a slice of cream cake.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Cooperativa Coraggio. Donations help them regenerate 22 hectares of unused public land to create local jobs and produce organic food in Italy.
One Week in the Galapagos Islands

- The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most unique wildlife on earth – many you may not have heard of before! Spot blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, frigate birds and so much more on your island escape.
- Consider a range of optional activities to enhance your wicked wildlife stops with your small group. Snorkelling at Kicker Rock? Swimming alongside sea lions near Isla Lobos? It’s up to you!
- Take land-side visits to San Cristobal’s Interpretation Center and Isabela’s Giant Tortoise Breeding Center to discover more about the islands’ history and conservation efforts to preserve this far-flung paradise.
- By staying on the islands, you’ll get the best of both worlds – discovering the forests, beaches and marine hotspots by day, and chilling out in town by night.
- Collect solid gold bragging rights after climbing Isla Isabela's volcano. The views up the top don't get much better than this!
Real Thailand & Laos

- From the nightlife and delicious cuisine of Bangkok to cycling and bar hopping in Chaing Mai – northern Thailand will kick off your epic adventure the right way (zipline anyone?).
- Head out on a sunset hike to Wat Phu Si in Luang Prabang for some pretty epic views over Phu Si Mountain. After the sun descends, head to Talad Mued Night Market for a BBQ feast – a local favourite.
- Chill out in chilled Laos with loads of free time to explore at your own pace. Give food to a procession of monks at dawn, explore Kuang Si Waterfalls for a refreshing swim or go kayaking on the gorgeous Nam So River.
- Cruise down the Mekong River in a traditional-style boat – a classic favourite in Southeast Asia for good reason. Take in the overhanding reeds and enjoy more photo-ops than you can shake a bamboo cane at.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Luang Prabang – between the French villas and the blazing sunsets over the Mekong, you won't know which way to look!
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, MandaLao Elephant Conservation. Donations help them promote ethical elephant care and create local employment opportunities in communities in Laos.
Epic South East Asia

- Head out on a sunset hike to Wat Phu Si in Luang Prabang for some amazing views over Phu Si Mountain. After the sun descends, head to Talad Mued Night Market for a BBQ feast – a local favourite.
- Cruise down the Mekong River in a traditional-style boat – a classic favourite in Southeast Asia for good reason. Take in the overhanding reeds and enjoy more photo-ops than you can shake a bamboo cane at.
- Who'd have thought green seas and giant mossy rocks could be so pretty? Take in the views of Lan Ha Bay by kayak as you explore the limestone islands during your visit to Cat Ba Island.
- A homestay in rural Sambor Prei Kuk puts you right in the heart of everyday village life in Cambodia – cycle through the village for the best perspective and see locals working the rice fields or getting stuck into handicrafts.
- See the sunrise over the incredible Angkor complex and take a guided Tuk-tuk tour of all the best sites (including Angkor Wat and jungle-covered Ta Prohm) with a company focused on employing local women in the community.
Real Bolivia & Argentina

- Explore Bolivian culture in La Paz, from the city’s booming industry to the traditionally dressed residents selling ancient potions at the Witches’ Market.
- Embark on a three-day adventure by 4WD across the rocky Atacama Desert in Salar de Uyuni and the largest salt lakes in the world. Pass cactus islands, train cemeteries and mineral lakes teeming with birdlife.
- Enjoy heaps of free time to choose your own adventure and take part in optional activities like sandboarding on desert dunes, biking around the city streets of Salta and soaking in thermal baths in Bolivia.
- Witness the ever-changing landscape through the Andean Desert, passing by volcanoes, lakes and mountains and spotting wildlife like flamingoes, foxes and llamas.
- Get under the skin of Buenos Aires – with its eclectic neighbourhoods, thriving nightlife, food and wine culture and huge theatre scene, this is the perfect way to end your adventure!
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.
Essential Jordan, Israel & the Palestinian Te ...

- Sleep under the stars at a Bedouin-style camp in Wadi Rum with all the creature comforts, waking for a stunning sunrise and a thrill-seeking 4WD adventure.
- Only Petra’s Treasury – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – is stunning enough to be the temple of the Holy Grail. Your pass to this sacred site lasts two full days so that you can explore every nook and cranny at your own pace.
- See the lowest point on earth – the Dead Sea – and float in its famously salty waters, soaking up its healing minerals and lathering yourself in the rejuvenating mud (if the mood strikes).
- Hike the desert oasis of Ein Gedi National Park and find hidden springs, waterfalls and amazing views of the Dead Sea – the lowest point on Earth, which you can opt to visit after a post-walk swim.
- Find cool, hidden bars in Jerusalem in your free time and hit the bustling nightlife in Tel Aviv – now known as one of the best destinations in the world for clubs, bars and partying!
Essential Southern Thailand

- Discover a real slice of paradise in Ko Samui. Cruise the island, go chasing waterfalls and relax on the beach before heading out to one of Ko Samui's famous beach bars.
- Step into another world in Khao Sok National Park – an essential experience in Thailand, nature-lover or not (but how could you not be?). You’ll go wildlife spotting and waterfall hiking through some of the oldest jungles in the world.
- Eat your weight in pad Thai, mango sticky rice, roti bread, street snacks and homecooked dinners (at your raft house stay) then wash it all down with a cocktail or two – yum!
- Explore vibrant nightlife, beach bars and beach clubs in Bangkok, Ko Samui and Phuket with new like-minded friends and a local leader who knows all the best spots.
- Visit the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation in Phuket and learn how they work with local organisations and educational facilities to rescue leatherneck turtle eggs (and other local turtle species) and provide the community with environmental training.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, EcoThailand Foundation. Donations help educate school children on important environmental issues like climate change, nature appreciation, conservation and sustainability.
Real Mexico

- Head deep into the jungle to the lush wilderness of Lacanja River during your stay at an eco-lodge, which supports the local indigenous community in the forest of the Lacandon area. Maybe opt to raft through the waterfalls and backwaters or take a guided hike.
- Tour the historic site of Chichen Itza – one of the new Seven Wonders of the World – and learn why these ancient Maya ruins are the most important in all of Mexico.
- Experience the bustling nature and bright colours of local Mexican markets. Practice your bargaining skills, snap some photos and pick up traditional handicrafts in Oaxaca and Merida.
- Indulge in some delicious Mexican cuisine, with an included taco crawl and marquesitas tasting and some optional cooking classes (not to mention the huge range of fresh seafood, hot street food and everything corn!)
- Kick back, get active or explore this amazing region with loads of free time – maybe go snorkelling in the paradisical waters of Playa de Carmen, discover the ruins of Uxmal from Merida or take day trips to some archaeological sites and ancient Maya ruins.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Gastromotiva. Donations provide job training for vulnerable youth in Rio De Janeiro and promote the importance of sustainable cooking.
Real Central America

- Enjoy traditional Guatemalan hospitality with a homecooked lunch in a local home in San Juan La Laguna, after visiting a local midwife, walking through medicinal gardens and experiencing a weaving and dying workshop.
- Head to Tikal National Park within the dense Maya forest to explore ancient Maya ruins at the archaeological site – you might like to opt to swing through the canopy on the optional zipline experience!
- Extended time in the paradise of Caye Caulker and unique Antigua offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy laidback island vibes and buzzing colonial city life. Swim among tropical fish, sharks and manta rays and then hit the salsa lessons!
- Visit the colourful markets of Chichicastenango, nicknamed Chichi, where you can explore the local handmade wares like jade jewellery, pottery and traditional huipils – the traditional dress worn by Maya women.
- See some of the best of Central America in one trip travelling through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. Enjoy loads of free time where you can rent bikes and explore on wheels, go snorkelling and kayaking or rent a paddleboard and explore the landscape from the water.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, the Adelante Foundation. Donations help them empower female entrepreneurs from low-income parts of Honduras to grow their businesses and build a livelihood with microfinance.
Epic Bolivia to Brazil

- Get amongst the weird and wonderful in La Paz, from the strange brews of the witches’ market to the tasty treats of Mercado Lanza.
- Ever dreamt of walking on water? Now’s your chance. Kind of. The sprawling salt lakes of Bolivia serve up some seriously mind-bending photo ops.
- The mighty Iguazu Falls straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil, and you’ll be able to see it from both sides.
- The heaving, metropolis of Rio de Janeiro is a great way to end the trip. Party down with the locals and experience a culture at the beating heart of Brazil.
Epic Egypt, Jordan, Israel & the Palestinian ...

- Spend a night cruising the Nile in a traditional felucca (a bit like a floating living room) stopping at colourful villages and temples by day and stargazing by night.
- Witness some epic sights in Cairo, like the mysterious Sphinx and one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Great Pyramids of Giza. Maybe even learn how to spell your name in hieroglyphics!
- Only Petra’s Treasury – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – is stunning enough to be the temple of the Holy Grail. Your pass to this sacred site lasts two full days so that you can explore every nook and cranny at your own pace.
- See the lowest point on earth – the Dead Sea – and float in its famously salty waters, soaking up its healing minerals and lathering yourself in the rejuvenating mud (if the mood strikes).
- Find cool, hidden bars in Jerusalem in your free time and hit the bustling nightlife in Tel Aviv – now known as one of the best destinations in the world for clubs, bars and partying!
Epic Nepal to India

- Spot Rhino's and other exotic wildlife in Chitwan National Park, one of the best places to view wildlife in all of Asia.
- Set out on an awesome three-day, low-altitude trek through villages and rhododendron forests, taking in the amazing sights of the Annapurna ranges.
- Paddle around Phewa Lake surrounded by views of the gargantuan Himalayas in super-zen Pokhara,
- Lumbini is no ordinary town. Visit the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, and tour its temples and the legendary Ashoka Pillars.
- See pilgrims praying and bathing along the ghats of the sacred Ganges River during an unforgettable sunrise cruise in Varanasi, one of India's holiest cities.
- The Taj Mahal may be one of the most recognisable buildings in the world, but do you know its poetic history? A local expert will fill you in.
- It's hard not to fall in love with the tiny Rajasthani village of Tordi. The locals will feed you and you'll sleep in a 16th-century palace. Oh, and there's some ruined temples and a pretty cool fortress nearby too.
Real Southern Africa

- Safari through Chobe National Park for a chance to see lions, elephants, zebras, impalas, wildebeest, giraffes, leopards, hyenas, jackals, warthogs, baboons, monkeys and much more.
- There's nothing more relaxing than feeling the African sun on your face as you lie back in a mokoro, eyes closed while your expert poler propels you through the Okavango Delta.
- Victoria Falls is made for thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies. Peer over the edge of this crazy cascade, then stay on for adventures on land and in the sky.
- What is the sound of a roaring lion if not a sweet soothing lullaby? You'll be camping right in the grounds of Kruger National Park, so you be the judge.
- Elephants might never forget, but you’ll get the unforgettable experience of cruising down the river in Chobe National Park, home of the world's highest concentration of African elephants.
- Pay the famous elephants and lions of Hwange National Park a visit from an open-air 4x4 vehicle.
Essential Galapagos

- Check out the highland haven of Quito – Ecuador’s vibrant mountainous capital. If you’ve got time, why not extend your stay here and discover the historic Old Town and Volcan Pichincha lookout.
- The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most unique wildlife on earth – many you may not have heard of before! Spot blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, frigate birds and so much more on your island escape.
- Consider a range of optional activities to enhance your wicked wildlife stops with your small group. Snorkelling at Kicker Rock? Swimming alongside sea lions near Isla Lobos? It’s up to you!
- Take land-side visits to San Cristobal’s Interpretation Center and Isabela’s Giant Tortoise Breeding Center to discover more about the islands’ history and conservation efforts to preserve this far-flung paradise.
- By staying on the islands, you’ll get the best of both worlds – discovering the forests, beaches and marine hotspots by day, and chilling out in town by night.
In order to see Travelstride Select deals you must sign in. We’ve negotiated with many of the world’s best travel companies to save you money! Get the best experiences, save up to $700 per person, and be a hero to your travel companions!
We respect your privacy and take great care to protect your information. By joining you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
With FREE membership you:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
Top Budget Travel Attractions & Experiences
Top Budget Travel Experiences
Taking a cargo boat up the river Niger to reach Timbuktu
Living in a Buddhist monastery in India in exchange for teaching English lessons
Experiencing home stays with families in Himalayan villages
Spotting whales from the beach at Doradillo, near Puerto Madryn in Argentina
Sampling street food and drink in Bangkok
Taking a self-guided trek in the Langtang region of Nepal and staying at local tea houses
Cycling around the Bagan temples of Myanmar
Exploring the smaller (and cheaper) parks and reserves of Kenya, and getting up close with giraffes, wildebeest, rhinos, elephants, zebras and more
Top Budget Travel Attractions
7,413 Budget Travel Tour Reviews - Summary 94% Recommend
All Budget tours, river cruises, expedition cruises, and adventure trips. Find the best guided trips and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Average rating of 4.7 for all Budget Travel trips.
1,183 trips from 306 tour companies with 7,413 reviews
More Budget Travel Guided Tours
Now you can find, compare, and share trips from 1,000+ operators and expert trip planners. Unlike most travel agencies and websites that only show options from large companies that pay big commissions, we show you all the options we can gather, and we’re adding more all the time. We want you to have all the available information to find your perfect trip, no matter who it’s with. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend getaway or a multi-country expedition, you can find it on Travelstride. About us.




...to foster a community connecting travelers to wonderful places, people, & experiences. Learn more.
Got itClick to send a new magic link to your inbox.
Welcome back!
By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
- Bookmark trips you like
- Share with your travel companions
- Track price changes
- Access private discounts on trips you save
TripFinder is a member-only feature. Dont worry, its free!
With a membership you:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
Just use the email address and password provided in the email we sent.
With your free membership you:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
Your travel guide dog
I’m on it!