Best Budget Travel Tour Companies
21 Travel Providers meet your criteria (Providers 1 to 20 shown)
Premier
Exodus Travels
#1 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 597 Trips
Average Price
$ 312 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Amalfi Coast Walking Holiday
This walking holiday was excellent and good value for money. From our pick up at the airport to the return trip was very well organised and great fun. The family run hotel up in the hills was a perfect base for this holiday and the food / staff were 1st class. Both our Exodus guide and local guides were knowledgeable and friendly
Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula
Exodus Adventure to Borneo & Malaysian Peninsula excelled my expectations as an outstanding holiday.
The Borneo experience of wildlife, knowledge then contrasted with the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, the history of Malacca & street food of George Town. Then to finish relaxation on the beautiful island of Langkawi.
Was a fantastic trip to amalfi coast…
Was a fantastic trip to amalfi coast our tour guide veriano was fantastic I would definitely book a trip with exodus again extremely well organised
With over 47 years of experience with small group adventure travel, Exodus specializes in active cultural, walking & trekking, cycling and responsible wildlife tours. They offer more than 600 itineraries across more than 100 countries.
Adventure can take the form of serious and active adventures -- which may involve adrenaline-producing, off-the-beaten-path roughing-it trips to the most remote areas of the world -- or food and wine, premium (five-star), family, or cultural adventures to iconic destinations, which involve more comforts and amenities.
What Makes Exodus Stand Out?
Booking flexibility
Award Winning
Tailor made adventures
Responsible tourism
Expert guides with extensive past experience
Exodus understands that new difficulty that comes with traveling during the coronavirus. They are dedicated to offering flexible services so travelers can book with confidence. Travelers can feel safe when planning their next trip with Exodus’s promised refund guarantee, Covid-19 refund commitment and 21-day no fee flexibility.
The refund guarantee means that travelers will be refunded if they have to cancel for any reason. This also includes cancellations due to the coronavirus. Travelers can also transfer their trip for free up to 21 days before departure.
Creating great and adventurous trips is the top priority for Exodus. They offer many pre-planned tours, but they also work with travelers to add or change existing itineraries or even create one from scratch. This allows travelers to create the perfect trip that fits their travel style, schedule and budget.
Exodus is also dedicated to responsible travel in all of their tours. They strive to improve life for the planet, places and people they visit. Instead of meeting the base guidelines for eco-friendly travel, Exodus seeks more ways to leave a positive impact with their trips. This includes economic empowerment for local communities, reducing waste wherever possible and making lower carbon choices for their adventures.
Each trip is led by a knowledgeable guide who has extensive past experience which adds benefits to any trip. Before working with Exodus, many guides were professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists as well as mountain bike gurus.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Exodus?
All ages
Active travelers
Outdoor and nature enthusiasts
Exodus travelers are a diverse bunch, and average between 35-65 years of age. However, any age traveler is welcome. Exodus creates great packages and tours for families as well as fully customized trips created from scratch.
The Exodus traveler is very active, loves being adventurous, and will be less invested in luxury accommodations or a lot of museum time. You are game for anything, love the travel experience of getting to know a new destination through outdoor adventure, and learning about the culture from local guides and experts.
These trips are great for those who already have a base level of physical fitness, and enjoy meeting new physical challenges. Exodus provides physical fitness guides to show how much training you should expect to do prior to departure.
Top Destinations
Exodus leads 600 + trips spanning all seven continents. From African safaris, to walking and wine in Italy and France to the sun-drenched Croatian coast, to trekking Patagonia, wildlife cruises in the Galapagos and cycling in Vietnam, Exodus has built out their global presence and has active adventures in nearly any destination a traveler could desire.
Exodus Travel Style
Exodus tours are designed for the active and adventurous traveler. This means that most tours include activities such as walking, cycling and safaris. However, for travelers who enjoy cultural and culinary, there are tours and activities for you as well. Exodus offers cultural trips based around food, festivals or family to name a few.
These active adventures vary by way of difficulty from level 1-10, attracting casual cyclists and hikers as well as enthusiasts looking to really push their physical limits.
Travelers can choose from guided groups, private groups, self guided tours or solo traveling. Within each travel style, Exodus offers all the same activities from cycling to wildlife and provides the top itineraries for that specific style to help travelers find what’s best for them.
Most accommodations are charming and locally run with 2-3 star ratings. There are some premium departures available as well as unique accommodation experiences whenever possible. Exodus travelers don’t mind the lower level of luxury as the experience and destination is the highest priority.
Why Choose a Tour With Exodus?
If you love experiencing a new destination whether that’s through the culture, unique wildlife or beautiful outdoors through active and adventurous activities, then Exodus is perfect for you. You love that sense of discovery, of challenging yourself and want to travel responsibly.
Exodus offers great tours already fully packaged, but for the traveler that likes more control over their perfect trip, they offer customizable trips. Travelers get to choose not only the destination but each activity they will partake in to perfectly match their travel style and budget.
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Preferred
Trafalgar
#36 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 291 Trips
Average Price
$ 329 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Budget Travel
1 Tours in Budget Travel
Highlight of Vacation experiences
The Ireland Highlights trip was filled with lots of local stops and shops you may not get through other companies. The trafalgar experience felt personal.
Great trip learned a lot
Rudy was an excellent guide extremely well informed
Consideret hotels were great Jiovani a skilled bus driver not waiting in lines was wonderful Rudy also taught us about being cautious and safe
Best of Italy 2023
I loved that we were able to see so much of Italy! I enjoyed all of the sights immensely. I basked in the loveliness of the hotels in Assisi, Rome, Lake Maggiore and Florence. The others I could do without. Federica and Theo were phenomenal and I loved their working relationship!
Trafalgar is a name many seasoned travelers will recognize. A branch of the Travel Corporation, whose brands all enjoy stellar reputations, Trafalgar has been offering classic and affordable tours for over 70 years.
Trafalagar Tours - Quick Facts
Founded: in 1947
Group size: Large Groups, between 40-45 people
Mode of transportation: Primarily luxury air-conditioned coaches
Accommodation style: Unique 3 & 4 star hotels and guest houses
Typical age range: 50+
Single travelers welcome (single supplements are required, but often discounted)
Average tour price: $3,796
Top Regions: Europe, USA, Canada
Related TTC Brands: Insight Vacations, Uniworld, Brendan Vacations
What Makes Trafalgar Tours Stand Out?
Great value for pricing and inclusions
Comfortable, not physically demanding tours
Largely focused on cultural immersion
Hand-picked accommodations
Strong reputation
Dedicated to responsible tourism - Founding member of TreadRight Foundation
Good balance of free time and inclusions
Trafalgar is a group tour operator and one of the world’s most awarded tour companies. With over 70 years of experience, they unlock the best of the world from iconic experiences you’ve always dreamed of to getting to know the locals all while having everything taken care of for you every step of the way.
Tours with Trafalgar are comfortable, not too physically demanding, and offer the opportunity to meet, talk, eat and drink with locals. You’ll get to know chefs, artisans, craftsmen, historians, and farmers as you explore what makes each destination truly special.
Trafalgar has a strong reputation, having been around since 1947 - putting them right at the pinnacle of when many premier guided tour companies were established. You’ll meet groups of like minded travelers, enjoy cultural experiences, expertly crafted itineraries with local touches and experiences guides, while traveling in comfort and ease.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Trafalgar?
Older travelers (but all ages are welcome)
Families
Mid to high range budget travelers
Those who enjoy slow-paced itineraries and easy physical activity
Those who favor historic sightseeing & cultural immersion over hard core adventure
If you are an active traveler, perhaps recently retired, eager to explore the world in comfort, visiting a nice combination of unique local spots and classic sites, then Trafalgar could be a great choice.
Possibly you are new to group tours and packages, having been used to creating your own travel experiences at a younger age - Trafalgar provides the perfect introduction to group tours.
You'll have plenty of free time to explore on your own, for shopping, sightseeing, and meals away from the group. Optional excursions are available throughout the itinerary for when you want a bit more structure.
Families will also get a lot out of the Trafalgar travel experience. If you're seeking a family vacation and interested in introducing a new generation of travelers to your favorite country - but don’t really have the time or patience to worry about planning out all the logistics - Trafalgar could be a great choice.
While they offer many trip styles, suitable for travelers of all ages, their classic touch is popular among older travelers. Classic doesn’t mean old fashioned or tired - simply a bit less on the active adventure and more on the historic sights and cultural experiences. They have a number of family focused tours, as well as tailored trips for special interests.
Trafalgar trips are budget friendly, with most trips in middle to low range, including a “Cost Saver” feature that allows you to see more inexpensive trips broken down by ratings and cost clearly. They offer several deals on trips throughout the year.
Trafalgar is a British brand, so many of the attendees on your tour will be from the UK.
Top Destinations
Europe & the UK
USA and Canada
Australia & New Zealand
Asia
South America
With Trafalgar, you can find trips to Europe, USA & Canada, South America, Asia, Australia & New Zealand. While the destinations are widespread, Trafalgar trips explore the culture and their highly trained local guides take you to hidden local spots without venturing too far outside the comfort zone.
Tours in Europe and the UK are among the most popular itineraries, utlizing guest houses and even castles for accommodation!
Their USA & Canada tours are extremely popular for outdoorsy travelers. National Parks are a common itinerary item, as are trips along the Rocky Mountaineer railroad.
In South America, Trafalgar travels to Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Peru. In Africa, they go to Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. In Asia, it’s Cambodia, China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
And in the Pacific, Trafalgar visits Australia and New Zealand - some trips in this region are more basic when it comes to accommodation so be sure to read the itinerary carefully!
Wherever you go, you can expect high quality guides, unique destination-specific accommodations, and smooth travels.
They also have a number of religious themed tours, including trips that include excursions to Oberammergau, Bavaria. Once a decade this small town presents a Passion Play, and Trafalgar has had special access since 1970. The next time to experience this unique event is 2020.
Trafalgar Travel Style
The Trafalgar travel style is all about getting to know the culture through activities and connecting with locals. Their main tagline is “Discover the Good Life”. On Trafalgar tours, you get to experience the real thing in a safe, escorted environment with knowledgeable guides there to help with the language and provide historical and cultural context.
"Discovering the Good Life" encompasses perks like skipping lines and private access to classic sites; and unique experiences that bring you to places and among people you’d never have the chance to meet traveling on your own.
This kind of travel is local immersion, but not in the same way a 25 year old might interpret that idea.
Rather than bunking at hostels, going out late at night, and enjoying potentially questionable street food, you’ll stay in premium, centrally located and culturally significant accommodations - everything from bed and breakfasts in Ireland to hotels right on the banks of Norwegian fjords.
Learn cooking techniques in Italy, enjoy private winery tours at French chateaus, and touring a small olive farm in Spain are just a few examples of the kind of unique travel experiences you can expect with Trafalgar.
Groups are large, typically between 40-45 travelers, a max of 52 on trips in the USA and Canada. Primary transportation during the tour is in large coaches, equipped with WiFi (with the exception of Alaska) and featuring large viewing windows - ideal for taking in the scenery as you head to your next spot on the itinerary.
Most meals during Trafalgar tours are included. Trips often include free time during which you can explore on your own, with suggestions from your expert guides.
Why Choose a Tour with Trafalgar?
Well known company
Culturally rich experiences in comfort
Many activities included, plus some optional choices
All guides are expertly trained
Large groups of international travelers
Trafalgar has a solid reputation, and they stick to what they’ve done well for over 50 years. They focus on the classics, providing a culturally rich perspective as you meet locals along the way. Their experience has allowed them to cultivate relationships around the world with local businesses - quality control you can trust for every stop along the trip.
Niche tours based on specialized interests are also something they are proud to offer. Trafalgar is where you go to have the essentials and logistics take care of seamlessly while you sit back and enjoy. Do note that these tours can be quite large - 40 people traveling together in a tour group can be stifling for some.
While they appeal to an older crowd due to their history and recognizable name, Trafalgar has an impressively well integrated social media presence. Trips on their site are accompanied by instagram posts from real travelers who have been on the same tour, using the hashtag #SimplyTrafalgar.
Old or young(ish), couple or single, traveling Simply Trafalgar inspires confidence, comfort, and enjoyment.
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Premier
Intrepid Travel
#12 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 1,029 Trips
Average Price
$ 314 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 4 – 45 days
Trip Prices $ 324 – $ 6,152
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Budget Travel
120 Tours in Budget Travel
Beware of intrepids Lack of Ethics
We were to travel with intrepid tours on a premium morrocco trip on sept 25,2023 However the 6.8 earthquake on September 10 made us rethink our plans. Would there be tremors? If we needed medical attention (we are seniors) would We be able to receive it? And we believed it was too soon to visit Morrocco when thousands of people just died in an earthquake. We did want to roll over trip to 2024.
We were told by Intrepid we needed to cancel two weeks before our trip started. That would have made sense in normal times, but this was not normal times whatsoever. There hadn’t been an earthquake in decades We were trying to get answers from intrepid, before deciding what to do.
We called and chatted multiple times and begged to have the trip rescheduled. Each customer service person said no and there was no opportunity to speak to a supervisor. It was a dead issue with intrepid.
Intrepid was totally nonnegotiable for allowing us to delay the trip. As far as they were concerned, the September 25 trip would depart with modifications. I asked what the modifications were. They couldn’t tell me. We spent thousands of dollars and no one knew what the modifications were but we were supposed to be willing to travel …really? I have been vocal on their Facebook page. No response from intrepid. Yes they had to ensure travelers in Morocco are safe, but they also should have had the manpower to address our concerns with the trip scheduled in two weeks
When we did cancel, they immediately posted openings on their website for the September 25 departure at a $200 discount so they kept our money, wouldn’t allow us to postpone the trip and aimed to sell our slot. Double dipping if you asked me,
I then read on intrepid‘s Facebook page that other people scheduled to take tours to Morocco around the same time as us got their trips rescheduled I was truly upset for company. The prices itself on its ethics, not treating each customer with the same rules is well unethical. I sent an email to the CEO in Australia and the general manager in North America. I saved in chat and emails with their customer service people I had evidence of our request to reschedule.
I finally got a response in two weeks. It was from an underling who didn’t answer my main question, which was why we weren’t offered the option to reschedule like others did. This person gave BS corporate speak about intrepid will apply what they learned to future trips, and thank me for my insight Why didn’t she answer my question and now with the war going on in Israel, Intrepid isn’t allowing future guests to reschedule the trip looks like they just d o what’s best for them in normal and abnormal Times
We had trip insurance but are still out thousands of dollars
Avoid this tour group at all costs
Balkan Adventure
Having travelled many times with Intrepid, I find the biggest stand out compared to other companies is having local, highly experienced guides. Our guide Dora who lead us seamlessly through the Balkans for 15 days provided so much in-depth knowledge of the history, culture and resilience of the people in the areas we visited, that I came away with a greater understanding and respect of the beauty of the people and the cities. Not to mention, knowing the best places to try traditional foods such as Burek and Klepe. Highly recommend this tour and travelling with Intrepid.
Samoa
The tour guide and our driver were amazing! Nothing was too much trouble, no question was ever stupid and safety and fun was the priority of each day.
The trip flowed smoothly as our guide and driver (Ado and Hardy) worked tirelessly to ensure we enjoyed ever experience available to us.
Discover Central Europe
Trip Style: Small group tour
Berlin to Budapest
Trip Style: Small group tour
Essential Italy
Trip Style: Small group tour
Intrepid Travel - Quick Facts
Founded in 1989
No Single Supplement (rare exceptions)
Small Groups: max 16 on most trips (10 max during Covid-19)
Average Age: 48
Travel Style: Cultural immersion, adventure, overland, sustainable, and active
Accommodation Style: Camping, Hostels, 3 /4 star hotels, locally owned
Average Tour Price: $2,377
Top Regions: Asia, Africa, Europe, South America
Other Brands: Peregrine
Commonly compared with G Adventures »
Intrepid Travel is all about ‘real life experiences.’ With a name meaning fearless and adventurous, Intrepid offers nothing less than big travel adventures -- such as an 11-day hike through Papua New Guinea. However, Intrepid is broad-based enough to offer varied experiences such as food tours in Greece, complete with a visit to a Kalamata olive grove.
What Makes Intrepid Travel Stand Out?
Responsible travel
Industry experts
Authentic experiences
Small groups
Intrepid believes that with great travel experiences comes great responsibility. They are focused on responsible tourism which includes not only treading lightly but also making a positive impact on the destinations they send travelers to. As a Certified B Corp since 2018, Intrepid donates to grass root projects around the world, are a carbon-neutral business and are committed to animal welfare.
Travelers can rest assured when they travel with Intrepid because they will be in the hands of industry experts. Intrepid partners with local leaders to be guides for travelers. This gives travelers first hand experiences from someone who knows the area well.
Above all else, Intrepid strives to get its travelers off the beaten path and under the surface of the local culture. To accomplish this, group sizes are small, maximum of 16 on most trips. This allows for more use of local transportation and lodging, along with fostering cultural immersion. Intrepid also employs local English-speaking leaders who act more as a resource for local exploration than do typical ‘guides,’ shepherding groups from one place to another.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Intrepid Travel?
All ages
All types of travelers
Cultural enthusiasts
Intrepid is one of the early pioneers of the “adventure”-style guided trip. Despite its informal beginnings and emphasis on younger, highly adventurous travelers, Intrepid has expanded to a global company with a broad range of trips to fit all ages.
Intrepid divides its small-group trips into three separate styles of travel, all priced accordingly. “Basix,” for budget travelers, keep inclusions to a minimum and offer plenty of free time. “Original” journeys offer more included activities and hotels, while “Comfort” trips offer luxury experiences that include the highest level of included activities and standards of accommodation, as well as roomier vehicles. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is a style right for your specific desires.
The age range on Intrepid tours varies widely from tour to tour, and they are welcoming to all ages. The only exception to this are their 18-29 themed tours which are specifically for that age group.
Intrepid travelers have a real sense of adventure - whether this means hard adventure, or simply going deeper off the beaten path. Interacting with locals is an important factor when you travel, as is gaining a unique cultural perspective. A sense of fun is also essential, whether it means going out at night with your tour mates, trying new foods, or exploring the local markets.
Which is better? Intrepid Travel or G Adventures?
Commonly compared, both G Adventures and Intrepid Travel specialize in culturally immersive and off-the-beaten-path experiences. They are top companies to consider if you enjoy local & authetic travel and value having lots of free time during the itinerary. See our ultimate guide to decide which is right for you: Intrepid vs G Adventures, full comparison »
Top Destinations
Originally focused on small group adventure tours to Asia, Intrepid has expanded rapidly over the years, while maintaining its classic, adventurous, and immersive style. Today Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 different experiences in over 100 countries, on all seven continents. Regions with the most trips include Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe.
Does Intrepid Travel include flights?
While all your internal transportation is taken care of, often utilizing traditiona local methods such as tuk-tuks in Thailand, international flights to and from your home and the tour destination are not included. Their travel specialists can recommend where to look for flights however.
Intrepid Travel Style
Intrepid enjoys using local, unique forms of transportation. You might find yourself traveling by felucca in Egypt or in a tuk-tuk on the best Thailand tour of your life.
Accommodations, which could range from guesthouses to home stays, are also locally owned, allowing a more authentic taste of the region while contributing to the local economy.
There are a few broad travel styles to choose from when deciding on an Intrepid tour:
1. Basix - Budget travelers who don’t mind, and in fact prefer, simple accommodations - camping and homestays with basic amenities, and crave a lot of free time for exploring independently will love these tours. Public transportation is used exclusively so pack light! These trips often attract a younger crowd who love the idea of throwing a backpack on, keep plenty of room for the unexpected in their schedule, and allocate their travel funds towards spontaneous bus tickets and street food instead of museum tours and 5 star restaurants.
2. Original - These trips take the backpacker spirit of local immersion, incorporating all the benefits that come with going with a planned itinerary. This style is called “Original” because it’s the type of travel that put Intrepid on the map...pun intended. Accommodations are still simple and budget minded - often homestays are used to give you a true sense of place, personality, and culture. Mostly public transportation is used.
3. Comfort - Intrepid is known for the active adventure style of travel and these trips keep that mentality, with a few more creature comforts thrown into the mix. You can expect higher luxury accommodations that include a wider variety of included amenities, transportation is mostly private, though you can still expect to use some public transport, as is the Intrepid way. More meals are included in the trip price, and more group activities - which means a bit less free time to explore on your own.
Why Choose a Tour With Intrepid Travel?
Intrepid is a good tour company if you don’t mind foregoing some creature comforts for a truly authentic, local experience. If you enjoy meeting locals when traveling, sampling new and exciting foods, and traveling in mixed-aged groups of 10-16 people, Intrepid could be a good fit for you.
It’s important to note, sometimes “ample free time” can be a blessing and a curse. It sounds great on paper, but if you’re looking to maximize your dollar and your vacation time, be sure you understand the implications of having a lot of free time during your itinerary.
For some travelers this is an absolute requirement, but for others it can be tough to branch off and explore independently - you also need to make sure you allocate enough travel money for independent meals.
The tour leaders are great resources of information for how to spend your free time, but if you like having a full day scheduled from breakfast to dinner, Intrepid may not be the best company for you.
Lastly, if sustainable and responsible travel is important to you, Intrepid has poured millions of dollars into local economies, and has a very strong emphasis on responsible travel. So you can feel good knowing that your money helps support some of the innkeepers, vendors, and communities that you’ll meet along the way.
Is Intrepid Travel Safe?
Yes, Intrepid is a very safe company to travel with and they take the safety of their tour goers very seriously.
In response to Covid-19, Intrepid has reduced their group size to an average of 10 people. Their guides have been fully trained on new sanitation requirements and Covid-19 health and safety guidelines.
They have also implemented flexible booking options.
General Covid-19 Travel News
Some countries are beginning to reopen to international visitors, with entry restrictions, while others have remained closed.
Keep checking back regularly to keep up to date with the frequently changing situation of the coronavirus.
Want more information about travel safety and the coronavirus? Read about where it's safe to travel to in 2020 >>
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Premier
Insight Vacations
#37 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 353 Trips
Average Price
$ 340 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Budget Travel
78 Tours in Budget Travel
Anonymous
Our tour guy Andrew was amazing!
We enjoyed the trip and our tour guide was great.
Excellent trip
Personal service a definite Plus+++++++++.
The personal touch was amazing. Margaret and john Luke are to be complemented. As a somewhat elderly and physically challenged person it felt definitely cared to and assisted.
Editorial Review:
Enriching the lives of curious travelers since 1978, Insight believes incredible travel is more than visiting amazing destinations, it's about the connections you make and how you spend every moment, from authentic experiences that enrich the mind to stylish hotels that rest the soul.
Superior Dining and Dining Choices
An array of delicious dining experiences will enrich your journey. Each tour is infused with flavor, whether you’re being welcomed into the workspaces of chefs, taking your seat at acclaimed restaurants indulging in a curated selection of dining options that delight your palate to your choosing.
Premium Comfort
Travel on luxury coaches that feature double the legroom and personal space of a regular touring coach are customized for smaller groups. Bathroom facilities, device chargers, tray tables and drink holders complete this superior on-road experience. This level of comfort continues with our trusted 5 and 4-star accommodation partners, complemented by many relaxed morning starts and itineraries with a slower, leisurely pace.
Hand Selected Experiences
Go beyond sightseeing. Insight tours are filled with fascinating facts, interesting locals and special access, perfect for curious travelers who are looking for attention to detail. Enjoy personal anecdotes from Local Experts, historians and those in the know, and indulge in insights into culinary traditions and enlightening cultural experiences be it through music, dance and stories.
Personal Services
With your Travel Director taking care of the details and your every need, you’re free to indulge at the moment and savor each destination. Their experience, passion and knowledge of the intricacies of each city, town and region allows them to help create your perfect journey, with your liking and interests in mind.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Insight Vacations?
50+
Food and wine loves
Inquisitive and curious travelers
Affluent travelers
Top Destinations
Insight Vacations offers premium motor coach tours throughout Europe including the UK, North America, South America, Asia, and African destinations.
Why Choose a Tour with Insight Vacations?
Tour in style at a relaxed pace
Unique Insight Experiences
Average group size 35-40
Deliciously authentic dining
Stress-free travel with a Travel Director to guide you
The Insight Vacations tagline is “the art of touring in style”. They take this idea seriously both pre-trip and while you’re on the ground. If you’re looking for luxury beyond the silk sheet stereotype, consider Insight Vacations. Everything is planned out to the letter, groups are small, and you experience personalized service and passionate travel guides every step of the way.
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Preferred
Contiki
#31 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 320 Trips
Average Price
$ 192 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Budget Travel
1254 Tours in Budget Travel
Hands down the best trip I've ever had! #LoveContiki #EuropeanMagic
The team we had was excellent! David and Stacey really make a great team and catered to our every need. They were on top of their game and went out of their way for the group.
An amazing experience. You should definitely book your trip now!
This is my second Contiki and the same time two years in a row. I had the luxury of making a friend on my Contiki in Scotland last year whose birthday was the day after mine and we took this trip together. I am planning to do another next year. Africa was absolutely incredible. Dean was an amazing tour guide who really enjoyed getting to know his guest and wanting them to enjoy the things he loves. You can talk he is passionate and knowledgeable. It was so kind of them to the cooking class, the lodge, and Dean to help my friend and I celebrate our birthdays while we were there! Africa is beautiful. The game drives and cooking class were two of my most favorite experiences.
Anonymous
Easy & convenient to book.
Since 1962, Contiki has been a leader in providing exceptional global experiences for 18-35 year olds.
What Makes Contiki Stand Out?
Contiki offers tours curated by travel experts and specifically designed for 18-35 year old travelers. They pride themselves on creating lifelong memories among international groups of like-minded travelers. They offer a comprehensive selection of trips, over 300 of them, all over the world including transport, accommodation, included activities and free time.
Their product range spans three different styles based on the pace of the trip: Discovery Plus, In-Depth Explorer, and Easy Pace. Make sure to read the details of each trip and choose the right one for your travel style.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Contiki?
Is Contiki only for 18-35?
Yes, Contiki is specifically for travelers between the ages of 18-35.Sociable, spontaneous, and easy-going travelers who are between the ages of 18-35 will definitely love the Contiki travel experience. These are trips for those young people who travel for the sheer joy of meeting locals, experiencing the nightlife, relaxing in the sun, and pounding the pavement for the next unique local gem.
Having a good time, being active, and spending less time in museums is something to expect on a Contiki tour. If you’re the kind of young person who likes meeting a lot of new people, are excited to try new things, Contiki could be a good choice.
Contiki trips are very much about being young and having fun - so you might miss a particular cultural attraction in favor of a group decision to instead explore a local market or neighborhood not in the guidebooks. Contiki tends to attract partiers more than bookworms.
The guides and groups are generally warm and welcoming.
Top Destinations
Contiki offers 300+ trips in over 50 countries. They are especially popular for young travelers looking to explore Europe and Asia. Other top regions include Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Contiki Travel Style
Contiki trips keep budget very much in mind when designing their trips. Expect a mix of 2 to 3-star hotels, guesthouses, and hostels on most trips. Contiki uses a mix of private coaches and public transportation to get around.
The Contiki travel style is designed to allow for spontaneity - appreciate and get to know the culture through immersive activities, outdoors adventures, and local gems, off the tourist path.
Contiki trips can be found across a variety of travel themes and styles:
Active: specially designed to get the adrenaline pumping
Beach Vacations: get ready for a tropical getaway
Christmas Tours: experience European Christmas Markets
Detour Mini Adventures: immersive getaways with incredible local hosts.
Hiking & Trekking: work up a sweat in some of the most beautiful locations in the world
Island Hopping: glide from paradise isle to paradise isle
New Year’s Eve Tours: Ring in the new year abroad
Pride Trips: Go all out for Pride in some of Europe’s most out-and-proud cities
Safari: There’s nothing on earth quite like an African wildlife safari
Short Breaks: Trips under 7 days
Ski Holidays & Snowboarding Trips: Our ski trips are a perfect mix of thrills and serenity.
Small Group Tours: the perfect balance between social travel and small groups
Solo Travel: 70% of our travelers join our trips solo, so you'll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories
Why Choose a Tour With Contiki?
Contiki is a great choice for younger travelers looking to socialize with others during their trip. All of their travelers are between the ages of 18-35, and creating memories and becoming a part of something together are the primary reasons for traveling with Contiki.
Groups are a mix of people from around the world including US, Canada, Australia, and the U.K. They have over 60 years of experience leading cultural tours in different parts of the world and have a wide range of options to choose from.
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Premier
Topdeck
#16 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 36 Trips
Average Price
$ 193 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
They will do whatever they can to not…
They will do whatever they can to not honor their obligations
Best Tour Guide every so helpful an always switched on, best part was enjoying Long Drinks on the ferry Keep up the great work
Best Tour Guide every so helpful an always switched on, best part was enjoying Long Drinks on the ferry Keep up the great work
Really great tour overall, got pretty lucky with some of the activities cause they can be weather dependent.
Really great tour overall, got pretty lucky with some of the activities cause they can be weather dependent. Was not able to do black water and white water rafting on the north island or the Tongariro alpine crossing. Guy was extremely informative and was very flexible with changing plans if something didn't work out. Was a pretty good pace for most of the tour, aside from three places on the south island where we stayed for only night. Still saw the majority of the cool things around the island, would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore New Zealand!
Founded in 1973, Topdeck has been providing fun, adventurous trips around the world for 18-39 for over 40 years.
What Makes Topdeck Travel Stand Out?
Topdeck tour focuses on providing friendly and authentic guided group tours where like-minded 18-39 year old travelers can have amazing group experiences. There are several trip types to choose from, from camping, to immersive, to multi destination, to sailing.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Topdeck?
Sociable, adventurous, budget conscious 18-39 year olds are the kinds of traveler who will gravitate to Topdeck. Though they offer a few different distinct travel styles, there is definitely a sense of an ongoing party, with travel as the conduit and underlying shared interest.
If the idea of being around a group of similarly aged people - many of whom may be exploring internationally for the first or second time - being spontaneous, and meeting locals (often in the environment of bars or clubs) is unappealing, then Topdeck may not be your cup of tea.
Introverted travelers, or those for whom an extensively planned itinerary including many museums and historical sites is ideal, may want to hunt around before choosing a Topdeck tour.
That is not to dissuade the more observational traveler - who may very well find a group they gel with perfectly on a Topdeck tour. Only to caution that you will be surrounded by several extroverted personalities.
The bottom line is if you are game for anything, are traveling on a budget, and don’t mind fairly basic but comfortable accommodations and inexpensive meals - sometimes on the go - then you will enjoy the Topdeck tour experience.
Top Destinations
Topdeck has tours throughout the world, in Europe, Australia & New Zealand, North America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Topdeck Travel Style
The Topdeck travel style is tied quite specifically to their audience. These tours are great for youthful and energetic 18-39 year olds looking for a good time and to make new friends.
In the interest of keeping their tours affordable, travelers with Topdeck will need to make a few allowances. For example, hostels and hotels may be situated quite far away from the city centers. You can also expect some long travel days. The more of a good sense of humor and adventure you have, the more you’ll enjoy the experience.
Why Choose a Tour With Topdeck
Feeling the urge to connect with travelers in your age group, have fun, and make lasting friendships? Topdeck has over 40 years of experience in adventure travel, which has helped them create epic low cost trips for 18-30 somethings.
These tours are certainly not for those who prefer to take things slow. You will be running around, moving between a lot of places - which in some cases means very long bus rides - going out a lot, meeting new people, and staying active throughout your tour.
If your ideal travel experience is more methodical and planned out in nature, Topdeck may not be for you.
But if you are an adventurous and social travelers eager to absorb a new culture and make new friends, then hop on board!
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CIE Tours
#45 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 127 Trips
Average Price
$ 200 per day
Size Regional Expert
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Budget Travel
1 Tours in Budget Travel
Pick another tour company
I recently returned from a CIE tour of Iceland. While the sites were breathtaking and our tour guide (who was not a CIE employee but brought in at the last minutes) was amazing, the CIE experience was terrible. The lack of communication with CIE was appalling. We never knew exactly what we were doing even though our tour guide tried numerous times for clarification with CIE. Things promised were not delivered (i.e. a boat tour looking for the northern lights, a bus with USB ports, luggage portage on the last day, an outdoor hot tub, northern lights wake up service, what meals were included etc.)
To make matters worse, the hotel accommodations ranked more as lower end budget hotels—in particular Fosshotel Nupar which we were stuck at for two nights was filthy. The bedding while clean (I hope) was stained which was disconcerting, the room safe was inoperable and not fixed. When we dropped something on the floor and had to retrieve it from under the bed, the filth beneath the bed was nasty. Ostensibly, this hotel was picked because it was out in the middle of nowhere to facilitate viewing the northern lights. And yet, there were not wake up calls available for that. In fact, there weren’t any phones in the room. There was no way to notify guests if there were Northern Lights (which was one of the main points of this tours.)
The Hotel Selfoss was supposed to have had an outdoor hot tub to be able to watch the Northern Lights if they were visible. Well, the hotel did not have an outdoor hot tub. Also given the location of the hotel, I’m not sure they would have been visible there. For the price of this tour, the accommodations at Hotel Selfoss were, at best, mediocre.
Iceland was on my bucket list, and I saved for a long, long time to be able to travel there with my daughter. For the price (and compared to other tours I have taken) this was a very overpriced tour which under-delivered in every single capacity and at every single turn.
The only saving grace was the natural beauty of Iceland, but I’m certain that if CIE could have ruined that, they would have.
DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME/MONEY WITH CIE!
I gave this return 1 star only because that’s the lowest possible option, otherwise they would receive 0 stars!!! I had a trip planned for September of 2021 to Iceland. 12 days before the trip, my husband got Covid. Even though it was 12 days before the travel date, they still would not allow me to reschedule the trip. My husband has Alzheimer’s and this would likely have been his last trip out of the country, had I been able to reschedule. I was told I could put in a claim to get a partial refund. Since September 5, I have been battling with CIE to get said refund. Countless emails and phone calls claiming my check would be in the mail by “next week.” I eventually contacted Trip Mate to see if I could get any answers and they informed me that the check couldn’t be sent out because CIE hadn’t released the money. I tried countless times to reach the customer service manager, Mary Larkin, but every time I called she was “on another call” or “at a meeting.” Eventually I was told I could only email her to get in contact with her. I did exactly that about my refund I have been waiting months to receive and she finally called me back. She said it was inexcusable that the refund had taken this long and assured me she would have the money released and have Trip Mate expedite sending the check to me “by next week.” This conversation took place on April 7 and no money has been received at this time. Better Business Bureau has been contacted to handle the matter from here. These people are thieves, do NOT under any circumstances book with them!!!
Perfect First Time Segue into Ireland
In response to one scathing itinerary review, this is without a doubt, “a mile wide, inch deep experience”. Not sure how there could be any misunderstanding of this given the daily itinerary descriptions measured against logistics of time. So for our family group of 9, our appetites were whet and informed on this trip and we are already planning our return to this beautiful country for its it’s pubs, people, heritage, culture and lore. That is largely due to our fantastic guide, Mr. Frankie Mulcahy whose knowledge, wit, expertise and service made out trip more than outstanding. Frankie was a gem among gems!
Pros and cons:
The bus was clean and comfortable. Information was always at the ready. Atmosphere was upbeat, fun, pleasant.
Hotels were modern and well equipped. Yes, there were washcloths except in Dunboyne Castle. No AC but fortunate for a cool night and awakening to the sounds of birds and peacocks was an unexpected pleasure. The Newpark Hotel was nice but water pressure was too weak for a hair wash. The breakfasts were always hearty but monotonous in both selection and presentation. This is not a “con” as much as an observation. None of the hotels except for Killarney, were in a city/town center. That meant taxis or 15-30 minute walks for “dinner on own” nights. Hotel restaurants and bars were always available and not bad but, simply did not lend themselves to the Irish experience. Last night dinner at Abbey Tavern OK but definitely not worth the hour traverse across Dublin to get there. Would have stayed behind and eaten in town had we known. Seems this would have been a better place to begin tour rather than end it, given the start and end hotel locations. And the lively Irish song and dance would be a great way to kick off the trip.
The itinerary was what we expected, covering the miles we did in only 8 days. “Time on own to explore” was rarely more than 90 minutes or so. Shopping at Moriarty was lovely for the high end Irish goods it offered though we were not aware that it was government owned at the time. We learned after holding out for this particular excursion that there was more variety and more economical choices along the way, both before and after, if you made shopping a priority when on own. We did not, preferring eateries and pubs.
Castle tours, museum tours, walking tours all excellent.
Sheep farm, excellent. Food there excellent
Pub stops and talks, lunches and drinks, excellent
Historic site visits, humbling and awe inspiring
Kilkenny Design Center lunch, tasty but poor bordering on rude service. Rush you in/rush you out venue. Skip the free food and find a local pub.
Aran Island lunch- Stuck with it because bus drove directly to this location but even though we had to pre-select the choices they ran out of some items and rather rudely stated, “ this is what we’ve got”. Food wasn’t bad but attitudes were abysmal.
Every part of the trip went off with smooth transitions, no stress, no worry. This was largely due to Frankie, our wonderful tour guide. We would definitely recommend CIE for it’s value and service. The tour was exactly as described with some wonderful surprises along the way.
New Jersey-based CIE Tours, in business since 1932, is one of the largest operators of escorted coach tours through the British Isles, Eastern Europe, Italy, and Ireland.
Quick facts
Founded in 1932
Travel Style: Large Coaches, not handicap accessible
Single supplement required for those traveling solo
Group Size: Average 35, maximum 48
Typical Age Range: Older travelers 50+. Children are welcome, minimum of 8 years old, so families are common as well.
Average Tour Price: $2,233
Accommodation Style: 3, 4, and 5 star hotels, depending on the itinerary. 4 stars are the most popular, combining a decent price with comfortability.
What Makes CIE Tours Stand Out?
Specialize in Ireland tours
All-inclusive and great value
Discount Offers
CIE is a long-established company with extensive regional knowledge in Ireland. They offers especially good value, with all-inclusive pricing. Also look for early-booking discounts as well as seasonal discounts for solo travelers.
As part of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) and the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), CIE ensures that their company goes above and beyond when it comes to their client’s safety. They also offer a wide-range of itineraries depending on the client’s budget, interest, and schedule.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with CIE Tours?
Ages 50+
History buffs
Mid to high budget travelers
Those who want all parts of the itinerary planned out
Travelers seeking all-inclusive group tours of England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Northern Ireland, as well as a few destinations in Continental Europe. Customers tend to be aged 50-plus and have an interest in history and wish to stay in nice hotels (ranging from three to five stars) with a choice of budgets.
The kind of traveler who enjoys a completely hassle free experience, with all activities, meals, and sightseeing planned out. Coach tours are generally enjoyed by travelers who like driving - daydream and gaze out large windows at the world passing by in comfort on your way to the next wonderful stop.
If you love learning about history, culture, with your days full of ancient cities, churches, and historical information their guide style would be a good fit. And with the occasional spa day at your hotel thrown in these all-encompassing journeys take care of the mind and the body.
Top Destinations
Ireland
Europe
CIE Tours are especially known for tours in and around Ireland, and this is their primarily focus. They also travel to Scotland and Britain, with a small number of coach tours offered in Italy, Eastern Europe, and the Balkan Peninsula. Occasionally, river cruises on the Rhine and Danube are also available.
CIE Tours Travel Style
Most of their tours are on large, roomy, comfortable coaches, in the premium - luxury range. Amenities on board are basic, and coaches make frequent stops to avoid the need for using the restroom on the bus.
Group size is a max of 48, though 35 people is the average on the CIE Tours. Virtually all aspects of the trip – with no optional extras -- are included in the initial rate, which will not go up after booking, and departures are guaranteed. Itineraries range from 5 to 24 days, though the majority sit in the 8-10 day range.
CIE will also set up self-drive trips and homestay and B&B vacations for you if you want to travel on your own, or arrange customized tours for groups of 10 or more people.
Why Choose a Tour With CIE?
With more than eight decades of experience, CIE Tours offers dependable service and regional know-how. The company estimates that the average traveler will save $550 per week by not having to pay for optional extras during the trip. Their all-inclusive tours alleviate the stress of planning a vacation by providing daily guided tours, hotels, meals, and airport transfers.
CIE Tour guides are experts in Ireland and the other regions they travel through, so if you’re looking for comfort, inclusivity of price, plus a high caliber of knowledge and experience, this is a good place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the CIE Travel Protection Plan?
Travel insurance is required on all CIE Tours. The Travel Protection Plan is an easy, convenient way to purchase insurance at the time of your booking, covering cancellation. See other travel insurance options
2. Are there restrooms on the coaches?
Yes, most CIE coaches have restrooms for emergencies. Safety protocol means they are not to be used while the coach is in motion. CIE Tours make regular stops for travelers to stretch their legs and use the facilities.
3. Are CIE Tours handicap accessible?
No. Unfortunately the coaches are not equip to handle large wheelchairs or scooters. Walkers or foldable wheelchairs can be accommodated. Sightseeing tours require some walking over short distances, and some difficult stairs, such as when exploring castles. Uneven surfaces are common especially when exploring old sites and ruins.
4. What should I pack?
One large piece of luggage is permitted, which will fit under the coach. Layers are advisable for the weather in Ireland, which can be chilly. You may also bring a small backpack or purse. On “Supreme” tours, men will require a dinner jacket, but on all other tours this is not necessary. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
5. Are tips included?
No, tips for your driver, porter, guides, and tour director are not included in the price. They are not required, but are a customary show of gratitude, especially if you enjoyed the trip!
6. What about airport transfer?
If you choose to purchase airfare through CIE, complimentary airport transfer is provided for flights arriving before noon. You can choose to purchase airport transfer if you elect to buy your airfare separately.
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Preferred
Great Value Vacations
#39 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 941 Trips
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 4 – 22 days
Trip Prices $ 481 – $ 10,054
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Budget Travel
804 Tours in Budget Travel
Amazing trip to Greece with GVV!
Our trip to Greece with Great Value Vacations was amazing! It was so nice to have everything all scheduled and booked ahead of time for us. Will definitely travel with GVV again!
Being able to select our own B&Bs
Being able to select our own B&Bs
I want a call back regarding the…
I want a call back regarding the several complaints I made while on the vacation booked. Worst experience ever!
Montana Explorer with Yellowstone
Trip Style: Self-guided tour
Montana Explorer: Big Sky, Billings & Bozeman
Trip Style: Self-guided tour
Magic of Southern Italy: Rome, Sicily, Calabria & Sorrento
Trip Style: Group tour
Great Value Vacations provides pre-packaged, competitively priced vacation itineraries suitable to all traveler types. They are owned by DH Enterprise and Associates, Inc.
What Makes Great Value Vacations Stand Out?
Professionally planned itineraries
Flight & car rental available
Local insights
Budget minded
Unlike traditional guided tours, Great Value Vacations provides professionally planned packages for independent travelers booking a vacation. Everything from flights to car rental is available through the Great Value Vacations booking process.
Itineraries are designed by locals, so you can get a true sense of local authentic living while on your vacation.
Their packages are competitively priced, and designed by an extensive network of travel experts. You can choose from among several types of trip and their reviews speak for themselves in customer satisfaction.
Accommodations and activities are hand selected by their local experts or the “feet on the street” as they call it. They choose only the highest quality places to send you and your travel companions.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Great Value Vacations?
Independent planners
Budget travelers
All ages
Travelers who want a fully vetted itinerary and the peace of mind that comes with having all components taken care of will love the experience of a Great Value Vacations package. Because of the great variety they have available, families, older travelers, and young professionals can all find something suitable on Great Value Vacations.
It’s important to note that these trips are not a traditional group tour or private tour, with a guide. If you are looking for a different kind of packaged pre-set itinerary with a fellow group of travelers, we recommend checking out a few different group tour companies first.
These packages are great for independent minded travelers who still like the idea of a professionally planned itinerary, with unique experiences and activities, but plenty of free time. Great Value Vacations is also great for having all services in one place - including visa information, flight booking, hotel booking, and car rental.
Great Value Vacations is also a great options for budget travelers. They partner with various deals sites like Groupon to provide ongoing deals and specials (although the voucher system might be a bit complicated).
Top Destinations
Great Value Vacations operates tours in Africa, Asia, Europe, and The Caribbean. Travel styles include everything from all inclusive resort experiences, to quaint Bed & Breakfasts, to fully escorted tours, to rail journeys.
Great Value Vacations Ireland trips are quite popular, particularly now as Ireland has remained open to travelers during the Coronavirus pandemic. You can find several different affordable independent and self drive Ireland packages through Great Value Vacations.
Similarly, many American travelers are considering domestic travel for the next vacation. Great Value Vacations United States trips are a great choice for keeping the budget low and finding fun unique ways to explore your own backyard.
Great Value Vacations Travel Style
Adventurous
Local culture
Active
Flexible
Driving
The Great Value Vacations travel style is about convenience coupled with confidence - for an unforgettable adventure. Most of their packages involve driving, and their rental car availability is comprehensive as well as a big part of the value when using a Great Value Vacations package.
Itineraries include detailed directions, all your hotel information, and other important documents are available within 30 days of your booking. You are required to print all necessary documents provided to you via their Traveler Portal.
Most packages include a few guided day tours and several activities ranging from cultural to active.
There are several vacation types and themes to choose from that are available through Great Value Vacations. These include everything from Luxury to Self Drive Vacations (which is one of their most popular).
Why Choose a Tour with Great Value Vacations?
For the ease of booking a package all in one place, Great Value Vacations is a top choice. Their packages have the propensity to be a bit standard, however given that they are created by local experts - all itineraries bring a little something special to the itinerary. You’ll definitely see the important sites, as well as get some locally immersive hidden gems.
They bring all facets of planning travel into one place, at a competitive price, taking care of all the factors that can make planning travel stressful. They have an easy to use online booking system, eliminating the need for you to take any extra steps.
It's important to note that some travelers may find the Great Value Vacations booking model a bit convaluted. They are very much geared toward budget travelers which means you can may see them listed on sites like Groupon or other deals aggregators.
Great Value Vacations Covid-19 Travel Update
In response to the uncertainty surrounding Covid-19, Great Value Vacations is currently postponing all bookings, based on the travel date, current news, and country travel policies.
This precaution is in place at least until November 2020 and will likely be extended beyond that. At this time any current bookings with Great Value Vacations remain non-refundable.
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Cosmos
#51 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 156 Trips
Average Price
$ 175 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 30 days
Trip Prices $ 999 – $ 7,649
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Budget Travel
180 Tours in Budget Travel
Cosmos? No
We've taken over 10 group tours using Cosmos and Gate1. This trip last month, 9000 was not very good.
-During booking, incorrect information was given about airport-hotel transfers
-The whispers (listening devices) didn't work from the get-go, so no whispers were used during the 13 day trip.
- Porters are no longer hired to bring your luggage to and from your room. (Very elderly had to handle their own luggage. Our friends had to help many of them.)
-A few days into the trip one couple left. At the end of the trip we found out they had covid. Cosmos did not let us know; a few people weren't feeling well and two of our friends then tested positive.
-One hotel was awful and not even up to "budget" standards
-Many of the stops had castles, churches... but were not included, so be sure to count that in when pricing.
don't plan to use Cosmos ever again. Gate1 is the best in my opinion. When my husband's passport was stolen, they assigned someone to go with him to the embassy, translate, etc...It was above and beyond what we expected

Terrible
Expectations were fairly high and they were still exceeded. We considered this the best trip we have ever taken and my wife and I have zero complaints.
Excellent Experience and Excellent Guide
I would highly recommend this company and some trips to Scandinavia and Baltic. The countries are amazing, the service and our guide Ausra Paukste was really the best ever. If you wish to visit this region consider Cosmos company.
Cruising Patagonia with Buenos Aires, Bariloche & Santiago with Easter Island
Trip Style: Small group tour
Cruising Patagonia with Buenos Aires, Bariloche & Santiago
Trip Style: Small group tour
India: Land of the Taj & Tigers with Kathmandu, Varanasi, Udaipur & Mumbai
Trip Style: Small group tour
Cosmos promises to “turn your travel dreams into reality” by offering affordable tours in several parts of the world. Part of the Globus group of travel brands, Cosmos has been running escorted tours for five decades since the 1960s. It touts its clout with hotels and other travel providers as a way of keeping down costs, with savings passed on to their customers. Most expenses are included in the tours, though you may be on your own for some meals and optional excursions.
Cosmos started out offering value-priced European coach tours for budget-minded travelers, and now has added North American, South American, and some Middle East and North African destinations as well. Religious-themed tours of southern Europe and Israel as well as holiday season tours are all part of the mix.
The company emphasizes that when you tour Europe, for example, you’ll stay like Europeans do, eat like Europeans do, and “share the European view of Europe.” That generally means comfortable but not luxury hotels, well-chosen neighborhood restaurants, varied means of transportation, and guided sightseeing of all the “must-see” sites, with extended stays in key cities. Cosmos also offers plenty of free time to explore on your own, a way of personalizing your group tour a bit.
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Preferred
AMA Waterways
#54 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 26 Trips
Average Price
$ 429 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 4 – 14 days
Trip Prices $ 598 – $ 3,158
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
River Cruise Line
Trips in Budget Travel
4 Tours in Budget Travel
I’ve sailed with AmaWaterways 4 times
I’ve sailed with AmaWaterways 4 times. They are the best! You become family. I can’t wait to sail with them again!
Cancel for any reason
AMA’s “Cancel for any reason” insurance is bogus. It should be called rebook for any reason.
There is no better society
Er is geen betere maatschappij!!!!!
Sail Turkey & Greece
Trip Style: Group tour
Thailand & Laos & Cambodia Discovered
Trip Style: Group tour
Istanbul & Gallipoli Discovered
Trip Style: Group tour
Known especially for its top-notch onboard regional cuisine, Ama is the only river cruise line to join La Chaine des Rotisseurs, a prestigious gastronomic society. Passengers tend to be affluent, over age 50, and interested in a mostly casual, all-inclusive experience with minimal hassle; cruise directors make sure everything runs smoothly. Good service is prized.
Ama has won awards for its spacious, stylish cabin designs, and passengers can expect lots of complimentary perks: shore excursions, wine and beer at lunch and dinner, Internet access in every cabin (in Europe), and bicycles for use in port are all included in the price. Many cabins in its newer ships have both French and outdoor balconies.
Originally called Amadeus Waterways when it was founded in 2002, California-based AmaWaterways later changed its name but hasn’t changed its prime customers: mostly North Americans, British, Australians, and English-speaking Europeans (English is the official language onboard).
Ama has undergone rapid expansion and now cruises on three continents. Europe tops the roster, with fifteen ships sailing the Danube, Rhine, Main, Moselle, Douro, Seine, and Rhone rivers. Three ships ply the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers in Southeast Asia, while Russia (on the Volga-Baltic Waterway between Moscow and St. Petersburg) and Africa (on the Chobe River in Botswana) each sport one ship.
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Great Safaris
#57 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 46 Trips
Average Price
$ 355 per day
Size Local Specialist
Tour Length 6 – 11 days
Trip Prices $ 1,495 – $ 4,995
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Custom/Private Tour Operator
Trips in Budget Travel
9 Tours in Budget Travel
first class service
My husband and I just got back from our honeymoon trip booked through Great Safaris. It was a trip of a lifetime and we were so impressed by the accommodations, food and first class service. We saw more animals than we ever expected to see and our safari guides were very knowledgeable. Our trip was two weeks and Great Safaris picked all the right spots in Kenya and Tanzania!
Safari camps in South Africa and Botswana and explored the Cape Town region.
Travel with comfort, great food, safety and wonderful game viewing experiences. First time trip to Africa for my wife and I. All the guides and boat and safari camp staff were professional and fun. The transfers and connections were seamless. The home hosted dinner near Cape Town gave fascinating perspectives on life in South Africa.
Cape & Kruger – Cape Town and Kruger Park Safari
Trip Style: Group tour
Greatest Show on Earth
Trip Style: Group tour
Tanzania Adventure
Trip Style: Group tour
Based in Glendale, California, Great Safaris is a wholesaler that highlights a host of luxury safaris and other trips throughout southern and eastern Africa as well as Egypt and parts of the Middle East.
What Makes Them Stand Out?
They promote some “trips of a lifetime” such as a 32-day Cape to Cairo journey by train, safari vehicle, plane, and river cruise ship with stops at a number of wildlife reserves (including Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park) as well as Victoria Falls and Ethiopia.
Who Travels With Them?
Families, small groups of friends, or individuals seeking a first-class African wildlife safari or tour of Egypt.
Where Do They Operate?
Great Safaris specializes in South Africa, but also operates in Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya, the Seychelles, Egypt; and parts of the Middle East (Israel, Jordan, and Abu Dhabi, which are usually combined with African destinations).
How Does It Work?
Great Safaris outlines a wealth of safari possibilities and Egypt tours and offers personal consultation on selecting your trip. Then you book your tour through your favorite travel agent.
Why Travel With Them?
CEO Dave Herbert has lived extensively in South Africa and knows the region well. He works only with highly experienced agents who are also intimately familiar with Africa.
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Homeric Tours
#195 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 130 Trips
Average Price
$ 165 per day
Size Regional Expert
Tour Length 7 – 7 days
Trip Prices $ 885 – $ 885
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Budget Travel
1 Tours in Budget Travel
It was a pleasure to work with you all and the trip
Just a quick note to say that it was a pleasure to work with you all and the trip went smoothly. My travelers were very happy with the trip. It is all too important for me as an agent to be able to reach you after hours, or in an emergency situation. I appreciate that very much – communication is a key! I will certainly keep Homeric in mind for the next trip.
The trip to Israel was truly AMAZING
The trip to Israel was truly AMAZING...thanks to all yours and HOMERIC TOURS efforts. Our guide was a tireless fountain of information and he was constantly aiming to please. Thank you again and starting to think of another HOLY LAND trip soon.
Aegean Delight
Trip Style: Group tour
Gate 1 Travel
#49 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 779 Trips
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 14 – 14 days
Trip Prices $ 4,199 – $ 4,199
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Budget Travel
759 Tours in Budget Travel
Uncaring and Greedy Company
I'm very disappointed in Gate 1's lack of empathy and flexibility in allowing rescheduling of a trip to a Muslim country the week after the recent attacks in Israel. There have been many active protests and government support of Hamas at the destination. Visits to mosques and Jewish religious sites were included in the tour and no additional security was being offered by Gate 1.
I was more than willing to postpone my trip or apply my total payment to another future trip. Instead, I lost over $4000 for the trip, airfare, excursions and transfers and was not given any other option but to forfeit more than 90% of my payment. I was also misled (by two separate agents) to believe that I would be refunded my airfare minus a $250 penalty. Instead, I now have a credit for a sum uncertain with no way to access it with an airline that only goes to one destination.
The tragic events in recent days should warrant the ability to make changes in travel plans without excessive penalties. Gate 1's policies are unreasonable given the unprecedented times we are living in.
I have been on 12 gate 1 trips, many guest I meet are repeat gate 1'ers
I have been on 12 gate 1 trips, they provide excellent value, great 4 star hotels, well informed tour guides, all for the lowest prices that I have found.
Very disappointed with Gate 1
Very disappointed with Gate 1.
We’re scheduled to tour Egypt in November. However, due to the the conflict that’s happening now with Israel in Palastine/Gaza and the West Bank, we are justifiably concerned about our safety.
Our trip is fully paid, but we had humbly requested to reschedule for a later date to travel (Not asking for a refund) just to reschedule. Unfortunately for us Gate1 outright denied our request disregarding our concerns. The Arch insurance that’s offered through Gate1 essentially only covers Gate1.
14 Day Discover Sicily & Malta 2018 Itinerary
Trip Style: Small group tour
Founded in 1981 with three employees and based in suburban Philadelphia, Gate 1 now employs more than 200 people worldwide with offices in 20 countries, ranging from Hungary to Cambodia, Argentina to Israel.
What Makes Gate 1 Stand Out?
Escorted tours & river cruises
Good value
High quality guides
Gate 1 offers a variety of tour packages and river cruises around the world, promising to provide exceptional value for the price. They focus on North American travelers who seek “high quality, yet affordable” guided trips, with accommodations ranging from superior tourist to moderate deluxe class.
They have a lot of different choices when it comes to destinations, durations, and inclusions. Most tours have additional offerings for meals, activities, and excursions available for additional fees.
Traveler reviews for Gate 1 oscillate between 5 star and 1 star experiences. Those that have had an excellent time cite the tour pacing, guides, and extensive sightseeing opportunities as positives.
Those for whom these same factors contributed to a negative experience may have had higher expectations than is available or offered for the competitive budget prices that Gate 1 is known for.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Gate 1?
All ages
Low to mid budget travelers
Those open to simple accommodation and meal plans
Gate 1 is the perfect travel choice for families, couples, and friend groups seeking a cost efficient journey. As Gate 1 is a strictly budget minded brand, it’s important to be fully aware of the trade-off when you choose to travel with them.
You will see a lot, and be out and about visiting several sites - however keeping costs low is one of their main priorities. This means hotels will be basic, meals won’t be 5 star, and your coach will have fewer amenities. In addition tours with Gate 1 feature several optional add ons and sightseeing tours, not included in the base price. Average tour price is around $2,000, often less.
If you’re flexible, open minded, and are interested in maximizing your sightseeing above all else, Gate 1 could be for you. Knowing what to expect is key for enjoying the trip to the fullest.
Top Destinations
Gate 1 trips cover much of the world, including destinations in North, Central, and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Itineraries focus on the top sights, historical attractions, and national parks.
Gate 1 Travel Style
In a nutshell, the Gate 1 travel style is “see a lot for a little”. Hotels and accommodations are usually 3 star hotels. Expect basic comforts, with fewer amenities available. However if you’re the kind of traveler for whom a bed and some coffee in the morning is a fine trade-off for busy days outside and tons of sightseeing, the trade-off will be worth it.
You will be met on the ground with a dedicated tour leader, available to assist throughout your travel experience.
Escorted group bus tours are a big part of their business - between 24-42 people. These coaches are again, more utility focused than amenity focused, but you will be comfortable. And in general bus tours take frequent stops to allow for stretching legs and using of facilities.
Gate 1 also offers small group tours (with a maximum of 22 people), river cruises on two continents, independent city stays and fly and drive packages, rail packages, customized vacations, and combination bus/cruise tours -- something for almost everyone interested in a budget vacation.
Why Choose a Tour With Gate 1?
For the budget traveler, Gate 1 is a fantastic choice. They offer several types of trip package to choose from, including rail, river cruise, and small group tours, at competitive rates. Their escorted tours are extremely popular, and customers repeat trips with them regularly.
While Gate 1 is the primary brand, and they are all about giving a positive and packed international travel experience on a budget, other brands associated with Gate 1 are more premium focused. These include the Signature collection, offering luxury tour options and smaller groups.
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Globus
#48 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 405 Trips
Average Price
$ 319 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 5 – 31 days
Trip Prices $ 909 – $ 12,859
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Budget Travel
264 Tours in Budget Travel
Honest feedback
Meet and greet was horrible!!
We did not introduce ourselves, food was bland, only 1 glass of wine- totally different from the EF tour that I took after this tour.
The last dinner was also bad- it was October fest and we were in a beer hall that was so hot, crowded, noisy- we could not hear each other. The tour guide did the best that she could.
Don't waste your money on the Dachau tour- it was written that it was guided and it was not. We were given headsets and no guide. I feel that it was false advertising and would like a refund.
Hotels were very good- nicely located. Tour guide and bus driver did a very good job.
Beware of Globus Travel
Back in June my wife and I planned a lifetime bucket list adventure to the Middle East through the Globus company Avalon Waterways. The trip included Egypt, Jordan, and other surrounding area of the Middle East.
My wife and I were part of a group of 14 committed tourists assembled by our travel consultant for a trip arranged and supported by Globus owned Avalon.
Fast forward to Saturday October 7th and a horrible war breaks out between Hamas militants and the state of Israel placing the entire region on heighten alert.
Naturally given the increased danger and State Department warning to any American potentially traveling in the region we approached as a group Globus/Avalon through our travel adviser asking to please reschedule our trip during a time of greater peace in the region.
Much to our surprise and dismay Globus/Avalon refused to address any sort of travel credit or rescheduling of our trip and instead chose to keep everyones paid in full money with a “Too Bad” from their corporate representative.
Globus/Avalon chose to prioritize corporate profit and greed over protecting and sheltering their travel clients from a horrible war zone in which people were being slaughtered, women raped and infants decapitated.
After reading this you have to ask yourself do you really want to plan travel with a company that blatantly choses money and corporate profits over the safety and welfare of their travel clients.
Very well organized but a little too…
Very well organized but a little too fast paced! Guide very knowledgeable and interesting. A bit of a tease and fueled a need to go back to explore more! Accommodations ideally located and I enjoyed the variety. Some excursions a little touristy but mostly worthwhile.
Highlights of Spain and Portugal with Azores
Trip Style: Small group tour
Highlights of Spain and Portugal with Madeira
Trip Style: Small group tour
Portugal in Depth with Azores
Trip Style: Small group tour
Avalon Waterways
#50 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 215 Trips
Average Price
$ 378 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 16 – 18 days
Trip Prices $ 6,468 – $ 8,168
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
River Cruise Line
Trips in Budget Travel
11 Tours in Budget Travel
On a river cruise from Zagreb to Black…
On a river cruise from Zagreb to Black Sea on Avalon Impression there was little to fault the 4+ star boat, the food and the crew (with the notable exception of one quite senior member of the catering staff who occasionally forgot he is in a service capacity as he heatedly ordered passengers and fellow workers about, causing anger and distress in both groups - I am sure that those on the 9th September sailing will know of whom I make this comment and suspect this is not the first time that his behaviour has been noted). Cabins, public rooms, service, shore visits and food were all for the most part exemplary. Not so the hand dealt to those staff on the ground (boat and shore) - and passengers - by back office management. On a journey described on Avalon's website as a "9 day river cruise" and "inclusive of accommodation, meals and free wine with lunch and dinner" only 5 days were spent actually cruising on the river and on only 5 days were all meals provided (1-2 on the other 4). The same cruise sold as "From Croatia to the Black Sea (at Constanta)" stopped some 70 km short of the port and the sea with an optional 3 hour bus/ walking tour of Constanta - which is not what was expected (an Avalon map of the journey indeed showed the journey as completed via the Danube/Black Sea canal - an engineering marvel to which many were looking forward). Staff on board were left surprised at the expectation of mooring on Constanta, saying there "just wasn't time". Thus a £5000 (rack rate) "9 day river cruise to the Back Sea" offered morphed in reality into a "5 day river cruise way short of a promised destination" of questionable value for money. At best misleading and deeply disappointing. Enough to drop this from a 4 star experience to 1 star
Probably not consciously deceitful but perhaps Operations and Marketing should talk details before extravagant claims are made and the inevitable disappointment follows. Surely Operations sign off on advertising claims is the norm these days? Not it seems at Avalon. No big deal for most of our fellow passengers I guess. But, sadly, we will not be travelling with Avalon again, even though almost all their people shone. Ah yes. One more thing. The wines were indeed free and generously dispensed but the quality quite poor - and no choice other than "red or white". A feeling of penny pinching.
My wife and I received an offer of free…
My wife and I received an offer of free cruise and air tickets in return for attending their promotional in the Detroit area. We attended on July 12, 2023, Conf. # TS181. Upon leaving we were told that we did not qualify because we arrived late, were older than 72 years of age, and did not meet the income requirements. None of these requirements were stated on the invitation. If this is the way the company works, I certainly cannot recommend it.
the people were great i liked the size…
the people were great i liked the size of the ship
Spectacular Switzerland with Romantic Rhine
Trip Style: River cruise
The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine
Trip Style: Small group tour
Britain Sampler with Paris to Normandy
Trip Style: River cruise
Preferred
SmarTours
#217 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 1 Trip
Average Price
$ 259 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Budget Travel
41 Tours in Budget Travel
Epic Journey to Africa with SmarTours
Epic Journey to Africa with SmarTours
Smartours was amazing in Africa. We had a great tour guide. 5 Star hotels and transportation.
We embarked on many safari adventures across Africa. We had the incredible opportunity to witness the magnificent "Big Five" animals, including lions, rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. We even had the thrilling experience of walking alongside wild lions and riding an elephant named Coco, accompanied by guides armed with rifles and shotguns for our safety, protecting us from lions, leopards, and poachers. Enchanting us with its grandeur, the mesmerizing Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia, known as the "Smoke that Thunders," captivated our admiration as the largest waterfall in the world. Embarking on a journey along the Zambezi River proved to be a thrilling adventure, as we came across the majestic hippos that call its waters home.
Additionally, we were fortunate to behold the majestic Table Mountain in South Africa and set out to daringly swim with sharks.
On our Journey to ALL 7 Continents, our travel experiences have taken us to incredible places all around the world. It is a matter of great pride for us to declare that we have traveled to every single Continent on Earth, placing us among a select group of fewer than 500,000 individuals throughout the entire span of human existence who have accomplished this feat.
During our extraordinary journey spanning all seven continents, we had the incredible opportunity to visit remarkable destinations:
- The majestic Grand Canyon. Flying over an active volcano in a helicopter and embraced the thrill of skydiving. Niagara Falls
- We explored the historic remnants of the Berlin Wall and immersed ourselves in the charming atmosphere of Nyhavn and visiting The Little Mermaid.
- In China, we marveled at the vastness of Tienamen Square and were in awe of the awe-inspiring Great Wall of China. We had the opportunity to visit the Shanghai Tower, which is the second tallest building in the world, and experience its impressive height firsthand.
- Down in the Land Down Under, we indulged in the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and enjoyed a memorable hot air balloon ride over the picturesque outback, where we even caught sight of kangaroos. We even partook in Cane Toad races.
- We embarked on a journey to the mystical Machu Picchu, ventured deep into the enchanting Amazon Jungle, cruised along the mighty Amazon River, and admired the iconic Christ The Redeemer statue.
We were fortunate to witness the breathtaking Iguazu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinean perspectives. Renowned as the second largest waterfall globally, Iguazu Falls captivated us with its sheer magnitude and natural splendor.
- We braved the extreme elements of the coldest, driest, and windiest place on Earth—the untouched Frozen Tundra of Antarctica.
We conquered the treacherous Drake Passage twice, braving the notorious Drake Shake and its towering 21-foot waves. It is renowned as one of the world's most perilous waterways.
Exploring Antarctica provided us an opportunity to witness first hand the breathtaking ice formations, observe penguins, seals, whales and birds in their natural habitat.
On March 17, 2023, at 3:45 pm, we achieved a significant milestone by officially landing at Orne Harbour in Antarctica, thus completing our mission to set foot on all seven continents. We had a heart-stopping thrill when our Arch-Nemesis, an Antarctic Fur Seal, nearly attacked us.
Just Say No!
Jan 2020, three of us booked the Enchanting Peru trip for Sep 2020. The trip was cancelled due to the pandemic and the bankruptcy of SmarTours. They were the only tour company that I did business with that went bankrupt.
On Feb 3, 2021 SmarTours sent me an email confirming my $300 credit for future travel. For three people that’s a total of $900. On May 15, 2023, Theresa Meyer, Co-President emailed me to use my credit and “to invite me to travel with us again.”
I responded to the invitation and offered a creative, Win Win solution, please use our $900 to book a day tour for us with one of their business partners. Theresa ultimately responded, “Unfortunately this is not something we can do. All of our partners are B2B and do not directly work with customers on individual day tours or excursions. It sounds like the best bet would be to transfer your credits to someone who is interested in going on one of our full trips. You may all transfer your credits to anyone you like. If they book their own airfare independently, we have several trips that come in under $2000 per person, inclusive of guide, entrance fees, hotels and transportation, covering anywhere from 7 to 13 days. Which is an incredible value. We do not offer any tours for only $300 or $900.”
Well I thought SmarTours was a business that used business partners which is B2B. In the time she took to craft that response she could have gone on Viator, GetYourGuide, or TripAdvisor to book a day tour for us.
I do not recommend using this tour company.
Egypt tour was great
The tour was geat, great accomodations, tour gides very helpful and ,hotels great cruise ship excellent , everthing was great
Founded in 1996, smarTours promises its customers the “Best Travel Bargains” by offering mostly all-inclusive guided tours throughout much of the world.
What Makes SmarTours Stand Out?
Airfare included
Affordable trips
Numerous ways to save
Local guides
Destinations around the world
SmarTours offers affordable tours along with great itineraries. Included in the price of all their tours is international airfare from the U.S., first-class hotels, sightseeing excursions, and English-speaking local guides.
SmarTours draws a large repeat business, taking travelers to such far-flung destinations as Thailand, Morocco, Japan, Peru, Patagonia, India, and Australia.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with SmarTours?
Budget travelers
Social travelers
History and culture lovers
Travelers who love traveling and care about experiencing the destination above all else - tourist sites, history, and culture - will love the feel of a SmarTours trip.
These tours are definitely for the budget minded - SmarTours offers numerous deals and specials throughout the year, and provides many other ways you can save money as well, including referring your friends and being a repeat SmarTours traveler.
Trips are comfortable and well guided, if not luxury or especially unique in tone. Airfare is included, which is a major selling point for SmarTours travelers.
SmarTours is perfect for the traveler who wants to get the most out of their travel experience, in terms of inclusions and time spent exploring the sites, both with a guide and with free time. If you are looking for a more cultivated, personalized experience, the SmarTours focus on keeping costs low doesn’t always allow for this. That said, this is budget travel that strives to appeal to a wider range.
SmarTours caters to all ages that are looking for good prices. They are largely popular amongst middle aged, 50+ travelers, and families.
Top Destinations
SmarTours travels all over the world, including Africa, Asia, South America and Cuba, Western and Eastern Europe, and the Mediterranean. Diverse itineraries are available in each destination.
SmarTours Travel Style
Large coaches
River and small ship cruises
Except for its cruise offerings -- primarily river cruises as well as Greek Island and Galapagos cruises -- transportation is generally by bus. Group sizes can reach 40 and beyond, but may also be smaller depending on the popularity of the trip. SmarTours will design custom trips for groups with at least 25-30 travelers.
Accommodations are between value and premium, comfortable with a step above basic amenities. You won’t spend much time in your hotel, as SmarTours makes the focus about the travel experiences on the ground. They care about ensuring that you have as much time as possible to explore with the guide and on your own.
Why Choose a Tour With SmarTours?
SmarTours is a complete bargain package for budget minded travelers. If you are looking for an unbeatable value, don’t mind a large group and want tours focused on exotic destinations, then SmarTours is a perfect choice for you.
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Brian Moore International Tours
#264 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Local Specialist
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Majestic Vacations
#271 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Global Operator
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Small Ship & Expedition Cruise Line
Urban Adventures
#272 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Custom/Private Tour Operator
Siagon Street food by night Experience
Duy, the tour leader was attentive, informative and the food we were given was fantastic.
So much so, that we will organise another night street food tour in Hoi An when we arrive there.
USTOA
#275 Pick of 306 Budget Travel Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Reviews Write a Review
We saw a lot in 11 days, much more than if we’d planned the trip ourselves
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
TC
Trusted Customer
November 2023
We saw a lot in 11 days, much more than if we’d planned the trip ourselves
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I have been on 12 gate 1 trips, they provide excellent value, great 4 star hotels, well informed tour guides, all for the lowest prices that I have found.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
JC
John Chun
October 2023
I have been on 12 gate 1 trips, they provide excellent value, great 4 star hotels, well informed tour guides, all for the lowest prices that I have found.
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Operator Gate 1 Travel Company Reviews
the people were great i liked the size of the ship
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
c
customer
September 2023
the people were great i liked the size of the ship
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Operator Avalon Waterways Company Reviews
We travelled with Gate1 in May 2023 for an Amazon Express guided tour. We did some research before booking online and were skeptical, but for the sick promotion they had online, we figured it was worth a try, especially after reading all amazing reviews from satisfied customers.
We were stunned by how well everything was planned, and backed up in situations where due to the unpredictable weather in the rainforest, things had to be changed last minute.
The food was custom fit for every person, delicious and served right on time. Our guide and driver were friendly and very knowledgeable. They made us feel very comfortable from the first interaction.
It was definitely a trip we would never be able to replicate without a trusted tour provider, and our expectations were well exceeded.
Highly recommend and will definitely be using again.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
RG
Richa Gabet
September 2023
We travelled with Gate1 in May 2023 for an Amazon Express guided tour. We did some research before booking online and were skeptical, but for the sick promotion they had online, we figured it was worth a try, especially after reading all amazing reviews from satisfied customers.
We were stunned by how well everything was planned, and backed up in situations where due to the unpredictable weather in the rainforest, things had to be changed last minute.
The food was custom fit for every person, delicious and served right on time. Our guide and driver were friendly and very knowledgeable. They made us feel very comfortable from the first interaction.
It was definitely a trip we would never be able to replicate without a trusted tour provider, and our expectations were well exceeded.
Highly recommend and will definitely be using again.
Read More
We were stunned by how well everything was planned, and backed up in situations where due to the unpredictable weather in the rainforest, things had to be changed last minute.
The food was custom fit for every person, delicious and served right on time. Our guide and driver were friendly and very knowledgeable. They made us feel very comfortable from the first interaction.
It was definitely a trip we would never be able to replicate without a trusted tour provider, and our expectations were well exceeded.
Highly recommend and will definitely be using again.
Operator Gate 1 Travel Company Reviews
Our trip to Morocco from 8/31/2023-9/7/2023 was a pleasant surprise. I will give our trip a 5 star rating. Our guide Mohammed and his team made our trip so easy and wonderful. When we reached Casablanca we were greeted by Mohammed and his team outside the airport arrival doors. Throughout the trip, Mohammed and his team were on top of everything. They really cared for us. Mohammed is an excellent guide. We traveled to Rabbat, Fez, Marrakesch, and Casablanca in a private air conditioned Gate1travel bus. All the hotels were very good with the exception of Rabbat Hotel which was average but it had the best breakfast and location. Our return to the Casablanca airport was great. Mohammed boarded us on the bus. When we reached the airport there were several people to help us. There was a very nice gentleman who helped us with our luggage and all the way to the ticket counter. For the price and service provided by Gate1, we give our trip a 5 * rating. We cannot praise enough Mohammed and his team making our trip a pleasure. Mohammed and his team is a great asset to Gate1 Travel in Morroco!
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
IA
Imtiaz Alam
September 2023
Our trip to Morocco from 8/31/2023-9/7/2023 was a pleasant surprise. I will give our trip a 5 star rating. Our guide Mohammed and his team made our trip so easy and wonderful. When we reached Casablanca we were greeted by Mohammed and his team outside the airport arrival doors. Throughout the trip, Mohammed and his team were on top of everything. They really cared for us. Mohammed is an excellent guide. We traveled to Rabbat, Fez, Marrakesch, and Casablanca in a private air conditioned Gate1travel bus. All the hotels were very good with the exception of Rabbat Hotel which was average but it had the best breakfast and location. Our return to the Casablanca airport was great. Mohammed boarded us on the bus. When we reached the airport there were several people to help us. There was a very nice gentleman who helped us with our luggage and all the way to the ticket counter. For the price and service provided by Gate1, we give our trip a 5 * rating. We cannot praise enough Mohammed and his team making our trip a pleasure. Mohammed and his team is a great asset to Gate1 Travel in Morroco!
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Operator Gate 1 Travel Company Reviews
Unbelievable service from start to finish! Zoe our trip manager was outstanding. Would travel again with contiki in a heartbeat, and would recommend then
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
RH
Ryan Howe
August 2023
Unbelievable service from start to finish! Zoe our trip manager was outstanding. Would travel again with contiki in a heartbeat, and would recommend then
Read More
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