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Best Adventure Travel Companies

This is our roundup of the best adventure travel companies. This article is for those of us who love to travel, but don't have the time or energy to spend on figuring out complicated logistics. 

There are hundreds of adventure travel companies operating all over the world, from Andorra to Zimbabwe, that cater to a wide range of different travel styles and preferences. Booking a trip through an adventure travel company can save hours of frustration and help you have a fantastic experience.

We’ve taken a systematic approach to ranking these tour operators, taking into account everything from popularity, to online reviews, sustainability commitments, and the company’s breadth of trip offerings, so you can be confident that you’ve found the operator that’s right for you.

Let’s get to it!

Want to book your next adventure with a local guide?

These are all individual travel operators, but if you want to book direct with a local guide, check out the trips on Skyhook. 

Best Adventure Travel Companies In the World

#1. g adventures (9.8/10), best small group adventure travel operator.

G Adventures is one of the world’s largest and best adventure travel companies, with over 700 different trip offerings around the globe. Although they take over 200,000 travellers out on adventures each year, they’re actually best known as a small group travel operator with a high focus on sustainability and authenticity.

Instead of shuttling travellers from tourist attraction to tourist attraction, G Adventures takes small groups of guests off the beaten path and give them the chance to have quality interactions with local people.

G Adventures eschews fancy hotels and western-style meals for more local options. Their tours are best suited for the traveller that’s interested in stepping outside their comfort zone for a more authentic travel experience.

#2. Audley Travel (9.2/10)

Best tailor-made adventure travel company for luxury.

Audley Travel believes that the best way to see the world is to explore it in your own way. That's why they specialise in creating travel experiences that are tailored to the individual needs and desires of any given traveller.

Instead of selling you a pre-packaged experience, anyone travelling with Audley Travel starts their journey with a conversation with a specialist, who will figure out what your budget is, where you'd like to go, and how you want to travel, so you end up with an experience that's perfect for you.

This top-of-the-line service means that guests adventuring with Audley Travel can expect luxury accommodation and itineraries crafted just for them. Of course, this type of service doesn’t come cheap, but if you’re looking for custom luxury travel, Audley Travel might be for you.

#3. Exodus Travel (9.2/10)

Runner-up: best adventure travel company for small groups.

Exodus Travel offers an amazing range of different travel experiences that focus on active adventure and education about a country's culture and environment. Each of their 500 different trips builds in a variety of outdoor activities, whether that be hiking and biking or winter sports.

Exodus takes guests to more than 90 countries on all seven continents, so they've got something for everyone. Plus, they've made a commitment to travelling responsibly, with respect to both the environment and other cultures, when bringing guests to some of the world's most fascinating places.

#4. Intrepid Travel (9/10)

Intrepid Travel was founded nearly three decades ago by two Australian friends who set off for a journey around Africa. They gave up traditional Western comforts for an authentic travel experience like no other. It is this ethos that started Intrepid lives within the company to this day. Intrepid takes over 100,000s of travellers on over 800 different trips on every continent in the world.

These days, Intrepid specialises in small group travel to some of the world's most remote places. As their name suggests, they focus on out-there adventures that are off the beaten path, yet committed to sustainability.

They run trips to suit a wide range of different travellers and travel styles, but everyone travelling with Intrepid should be ready for an adventure like no other!

#5. National Geographic Expeditions (9/10)

Best operator for expert guides.

The name ‘National Geographic’ is synonymous with amazing photography and ground-breaking scientific research. Nat Geo brings the same quality found in their magazines to their adventure travel trips .

Each Nat Geo trip is designed for people of a specific interest group, whether that be food, culture, wildlife, or active adventure. There’s a Nat Geo tour for pretty much everyone.

What sets Nat Geo apart from other tour operators is their commitment to hiring only true experts to run their trips. So, when you book on an African safari, you’ll be accompanied by an actual researcher that’s dedicated their life to studying the very animals you’ll see.

#6. Urban Adventures (8.8/10)

Best city adventures.

Sometimes, the best adventures happen in the heart of a city. Although the idea of “adventure travel” usually conjures up imagines of high mountain peaks or vast desert landscapes, Urban Adventures firmly believes that there’s a lot to explore and learn from inside some of the world’s greatest cities.

Urban Adventures has a trip for everyone, whether you’re a foodie or an active traveller. They’ve got shopping tours, beer tours, and multi-city tours, so it’s not difficult to find a trip that piques your interest.

Urban Adventures will create a custom itinerary just for you. You can be sure that you’re getting the city adventure you’ve always dreamed of.

#7. World Expeditions (8.8/10)

Runner-up: best small group adventure operator.

World Expeditions wants to take you to some of the world’s most amazing places via the path less travelled. They’re committed to providing high-quality travel experiences that focus on responsible tourism and supporting local communities. World Expeditions brings travellers to every continent but leaves behind the touristy areas for some seldom seen places.

They focus on cultural immersion and active adventures, but they cater their trips to travellers of all different ages and different activity levels so you can find a trip that's right for you. Plus, if you have a dream trip in mind, they'll even help you craft an entirely custom made itinerary and make it happen.

#8. TrailFinders (8.2/10)

Best adventure travel agency.

Trailfinders offers a variety of different tours that have garnered them a worldwide reputation. While they have a selection of pre-packaged trips, where Trailfinders really shines is in creating tailor-made travel itineraries because they know there’s nothing better than a bespoke travel adventure.

Trailfinders is known for its fantastic customer service, from actual travel experts who have actually been to the places they sell tours. You can be confident that you're getting an itinerary that's right for your needs. They offer everything from a weekend getaway to months-long holidays and everything in between.

#9. International Expeditions (8.2/10)

Best eco-travel operator.

If eco-friendly small group travel sounds like your kind of adventure, then look no further than International Expeditions . The company is committed to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts both in their offices and on their trips.

International Expeditions create award-winning travel experiences to over 20 different countries. They focus on facilitating authentic interactions with local people and cultures.

On an International Expeditions trip, you’ll be accompanied by an expert naturalist and expedition leader who are local to the area you’re travelling to. This means that with International Expeditions, you’ll get information and service that you could never find in a guidebook.

#10. Kuoni (8/10)

Runner-up: best luxury & tailor-made travel company.

Kuoni is one of the best adventure travel companies for luxury custom travel that's designed specifically to meet your needs. Whether you're looking for a guided small-group tour or a carefully designed experience, Kuoni is there to make your dreams a reality.

Where Kuoni really shines is in its customer service. For travellers from the United Kingdom, you can visit their offices and have a chat with one of their destination experts. If you're someone who wants to plan a trip and a pre-packaged tour won't cut it, Kuoni's adventures just might be for you.

#11. Flash Pack (8/10)

Best adventure travel company for 30-40-somethings.

Are you between the ages of 30 and 49? Do you frequently travel alone but wish you had adventure companions like you? If you answered yes to both of those questions, then Flashpack is the best adventure travel company for you.

Other tour operators place people on a trip together simply because they wanted to go to the same place at the same time. Flashpack specialises in connecting travellers in their 30s and 40s with other like-minded adventure enthusiasts. You can explore the world in style without having to go about it alone.

#12. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel (8/10)

Runner-up: best operator for expert guides.

Wild Frontiers was founded by renowned travel writer Jonny Bealby with a mission to bring travellers to amazing places and introduce them to the fantastic people and cultures that make these locations so special.

The company specialises in small-group travel. Itineraries are organised by regional experts that have been to the places you’ll journey to.

Wild Frontiers offers a wide variety of different tours to some truly remote places, but they’re also happy to tailor-make an itinerary, just for you. On a Wild Frontiers trip, you’ll stay active and experience some of the world’s most remote places like a local.

#13. Trek America (7.8/10)

Runner-up: best small group adventure travel operator.

North America is home to some incredibly diverse landscapes, from the deserts and canyons of the Southwestern United States to the jagged, snow-covered peaks of the Canadian Rockies. There's so much to see and do in the USA and Canada and one of the best ways to experience it all is on a Trek America tour.

Trek America offers road trips in the USA and Canada for young international travellers who want to see the big cities, stunning national parks, and everything in between on their next North American holiday.

Tours vary from just three days to three months. Trek America has something for every active young traveller looking for an adventure holiday in North America.

#14. KE Adventure Travel (7.8/10)

KE Adventure Travel started out as the premier adventure tour operator in the remote Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan. Since then, they’ve expanded their range of offerings to include trips to popular destinations such as the Himalaya , Mount Kilimanjaro , and the European Alps . Hike, bike, climb, and adventure to your heart’s content.

KE Adventures specialises in organising active travel holidays to nearly 90 countries. On a KE Adventures tour, you'll head off the popular trails toward hidden valleys and isolated villages and immerse yourself in the culture of the local people for an authentic travel experience.

#15. Classic Journeys (7.8/10)

Although they may be called “classic,” Classic Journeys ' tours are anything but standard. Classic Journeys is dedicated toward making sure that every traveller on their trip has the experience of a lifetime.

Most Classic Journeys' trips go to popular locations, like France , New Zealand , and the Galapagos . However, they give you a chance to see these places in a different way.

Classic Journeys’ itineraries give you a unique perspective on some of the world’s most popular travel destinations. Classic Journeys' high-end trip offerings include options for families and solo travellers, too, so there’s really something for everyone.

#16. Austin Adventures (7.8/10)

Family-owned and operated, Austin Adventures is a pioneer in small group active holiday adventures around the world. Austin Adventures prides itself on hiring only the highest-quality tour guides and all of their trip itineraries have been fine-tuned. 

The best part about Austin Adventures? Their trips are priced at an all-inclusive rate. You don’t have to worry about shelling out more money after you arrive at your destination. Trips come with a departure guarantee, so you don’t ever have to worry about last-minute cancellations due to low enrollment.

#17. Abercrombie & Kent (7.6/10)

Abercrombie and Kent have been guiding guests on luxury adventure tours for over 50 years, so it’s no surprise that they’ve made it onto our list of the best adventure tour operators.

Abercrombie and Kent will take you quite literally anywhere you want to go in the world. You can choose from one of their pre-set luxury small group tours or ask about a custom itinerary and tour, just for you.

The defining feature of any Abercrombie and Kent tour is luxury. When you book a trip, you can rest assured that you'll be staying at the best hotels and travelling in the most comfortable way possible.

#18. Butterfield & Robinson (7.6/10)

Butterfield and Robinson  offer prescheduled journeys in dozens of countries on nearly every continent.

Their trips focus on hiking, biking, and other outdoor pursuits during the day, but ensure that you still get to enjoy the comforts you expect from a luxury travel company. Butterfield and Robinson  offer a bespoke travel service, so they can design a luxurious active holiday that’s just right for you.

#19. UTracks (7.6/10)

Best active european adventure travel company.

Photo by Sam & Jo

UTracks ' tours are all about exploring Europe in your own way. Dedicated to leading the industry as an active European holiday tour operator, UTracks offers over 400 different small group tours  in nearly 50 countries.

Plus, they have a range of self-guided tour options, so you can skip the hassle of planning logistics and just worry about having an amazing time on your trip. All of UTracks’ trips focus on either walking, cycling, boating, or winter sports, so they’ve got a little bit of something to please everyone.

#20. Natural Habitat Adventures (7.4/10)

Runner-up: best eco-travel operator.

Natural Habitat Adventures specialises in nature travel, bringing visitors to some of the world’s most remote places, so you can see first-hand the beauty of the natural world. Natural Habitats even partners with the World Wildlife Fund to design sustainability and conservation-focused tours for their guests.

Natural Habitats itineraries are wholly unique, and their expedition leaders are some of the most experienced guides out there. Plus, their trips have very small group sizes, with an average of just nine guests per tour, so you can spend more time enjoying nature and less time avoiding tourist crowds.

#21. Explore! (7.2/10)

Explore! has been guiding visitors around the world for nearly 40 years. In that time, they’ve grown from offering just six tours to their current selection of over 600 tours.

Offers range from your classic group excursions to active family adventures. They offer trips in over 130 countries, each of which gives you the chance to learn more about the unique culture and environment in the region you choose to visit.

On every Explore! tour, you'll be guided by locals, who can provide you with information and service that you just can't get from a travel blog or guidebook. Explore! has been fine-tuning their itineraries for nearly four decades, so they have the skills and expertise necessary to create some fantastic active holidays.

#22. Peregrine Adventures (7.2/10)

Peregrine Adventures is the premium small group adventure travel section of the better known Intrepid Travel Company. Like Intrepid, Peregrine is dedicated to offering travellers an off-the-beaten-path experience, so you can get an authentic feel for a place during your holiday.

Where Peregrine stands apart, however, is that their maximum tour size is just 12 people. This means you'll get a much more personalised experience. Peregrine hires experienced local guides, hand-picks their accommodation, and travels in smaller, private vehicles.

#23. Tucan Travel (7.2/10)

Best latin american adventure travel company.

With over three decades of experience under their belt, Tucan Travel is no newcomer to the adventure travel game. Tucan Travel offers first-time travellers and seasoned globetrotters a choice of over 200 different tours in 70 countries. We rate them as the best adventure travel company for Latin America.

Tucan Travel also caters specifically to solo travellers, who make up over half of their total clientele. Tucan Travel is committed to offering affordable active holidays that are focused on sustainable and responsible travel.

#24. Kandoo Adventures (7.2/10)

Best hiking adventure travel company.

If you like to hike, Kandoo might be the adventure tour operator for you. Kandoo pitches themselves as a world expert in adventure trekking, and with trekking tours to places such as Aconcagua, Bhutan, Kilimanjaro, Machu Picchu, and Nepal, there’s no doubting that they know what they’re talking about.

Kandoo's trips are specifically designed to bring small groups of hikers to some of the world's most remote and famous high-altitude trekking destinations. They're perfect for the adventure traveller with a bucket list.

The team at Kandoo is also committed to responsible travel. When you book with them, you can be confident that your local guides and support team are all adequately compensated and respected.

#25. Adventure Alternative (7/10)

Runner up: best hiking adventure travel company.

Photo by AJCHO

Adventure Alternative was founded almost thirty years ago by Gavin Bate, a mountaineer and International Mountain Leader with decades of personal climbing, trekking, and international travelling experience under his belt.

These days, they focus on providing the highest quality adventure travel experience to their guests. Whether that be on a trip to the jungle, the desert, or the Arctic.

All of the Adventure Alternative’s trips have a focus on hiking, so they’re best for anyone looking to stay active and off the beaten path on their holiday. They’re also more than happy to help you plan a private expedition whatever your personal trekking challenge.

#26. REI Adventures (6.8)

Photo by NW Boating

REI Adventures is the adventure travel subsidiary of Recreational Equipment, Inc., one of the largest and most popular outdoor gear stores in the United States.

REI’s mission is to get people outdoors. They’ve dedicated themselves to providing over 150 different trips to every continent to help their guests have the experience of a lifetime.

REI trips are active adventure expeditions that bring guests to some of the remote places in the world. They’re led by top-notch guides, many of whom are local to the places you’ll be travelling in. The emphasis at REI Adventures is on environmentalism and authentic experiences.  You won’t find any cookie cutter trips with this company.

Ranking Methodology

Criteria & scoring.

To rank the adventure travel companies on our list we used 5 main criteria, as follows: 

We researched the web traffic statistics as measured by SimilarWeb.com and social media audiences as measured by followers on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribers on Youtube. We created a popularity score for 1. Web Traffic and 2. Social Media presence on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 6. Weighting: 5%

Review Profile

We analysed the public review profiles of each of the travel companies focusing on the major independent 3rd party review platforms like Trustpilot, Tourradar, Stride, Tripadvisor, Feefo and Facebook. We divided our review score into two parts: 1. Size of Review Profile, and 2. Overall Quality of Reviews. Each part was scored on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 6. Weighting: 80%

Responsible Travel Practices

We reviewed each travel operator's website and read their statements about responsible travel / ethics / sustainability. We then scored each operator on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 3. Weighting: 5%

Awards and Accreditations

We explored each travel operator's website to uncover evidence of accreditations like ABTA, ATOL, ATTA and AITO (among others), and official awards / recognitions from the travel industry. We then scored each operator on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 3. Weighting: 5%

Breadth of Offering

We analysed the breadth and scale of each operator's tour offerings, focusing on the number of tours offered, countries covered and number of activities. We then scored each operator on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 3. Weighting: 5%

We recognise that smaller travel companies would struggle to compete on some of the criteria above.

For example, a small tour operator would most likely have significantly less web traffic and a smaller social presence than a big travel operator. Equally, they would likely have a smaller scale and breadth of offering.

To provide a level playing field, we therefore weighted our overall score heavily towards 3rd party reviews - a criteria that all operators can fairly compete on.

The total review score counts 80% towards the overall score, with the rest of the criteria accounting for 20%.

Table of Adventure Travel Company Data

Below is the raw data we captured for each adventure travel company during our analysis. Please note, metrics like traffic, social media followers and reviews are dynamic and change overtime. The data below is a snapshot of these metrics as of April / May 2019.

We will revise these numbers annually. 

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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great article.. thanks for the information…

Hello Mark,

Do you have any experience with a travel company called 10Adventures? We are planning a hiking trip through Tuscany and I cannot find any reviews.

Hi Marianne, I’m not familiar with this company, but you may want to look at the Italy trips on our platform, Skyhook: https://skyhookadventure.com/go/italy

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices.

10 best adventure travel companies, according to our readers

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

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

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

National Geographic Family Journeys

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

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We’re the leader in small group adventure travel for more than 30 years. How’d we get here? By redefining the way travellers see the world. Check out how we’re creating the future of travel.

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The 15 Best Tour Operators in 2022

These are the companies Travel + Leisure readers trust to provide them with travel expertise and memorable experiences.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite tour operators .

When it comes to an itinerary, Travel + Leisure readers want more than a string of photo opportunities — and the right tour operator makes all the difference in creating a trip of a lifetime versus one that simply checks off a list of sights. This year, our readers were especially drawn to companies that utilize local expertise and experience to thoughtfully design trips that will entertain as well as inspire.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey , T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated tour operators and safari outfitters based on their staff and guides, itineraries and destinations, activities, accommodations, food, and overall value.

The top picks were noted for their deep knowledge of destinations and guides who "go the extra mile." One reader who has been traveling for more than five decades said a trip with Classic Journeys (No. 2) was the "very best" they had experienced. Others noted attention to pandemic safety details, while one who went to Norway was charmed by a "wonderful surprise dinner in Bergen out on the water that was fantastic."

Tour operators that seamlessly navigated the logistics of a trip also came out on top. Quasar Expeditions (No. 9) was noted "for really planning out every detail" so that "all you have to do is show up and have a great time." Meanwhile, of TCS World Travel (No. 10), a guest said: "You never lift a finger and just spend your time actually exploring the destination." They even added that they "learned so much" along the way.

Among the five companies on this year's list that weren't on last year's were two women-only tour operators that cater to travelers of all ages. AdventureWomen (No. 14) has multiday tours designed by women from Bhutan to Yellowstone National Park, while Explorer Chick (No. 15) has everything from day trips — like glassblowing in Baltimore and cave rappelling in St. Louis — to full itineraries in Machu Picchu and the Galápagos. One reader said her Everest Base Camp trip with AdventureWomen was filled with "like-minded women" who "bonded so well," while another said she felt it was a "safe tour group for women."

No matter which tour they chose, readers were most taken by the people they met along the way, as one said of Trek Travel (No. 13): "By the end of the trip, a group of strangers felt like longtime friends." Find out which other companies round out the list of the best tour operators below.

1. DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.

A tour with DuVine goes far beyond just riding a bike — it's a way to really see the character of a destination. Case in point: even those who say they're not necessarily cycling fans have been converted. That's part of what helped the tour operator — which runs trips in Europe, the U.S., Latin America, and Africa — skyrocket from No. 14 last year to this year's top spot. Its "top-notch biking equipment" and "challenging but doable itineraries" didn't hurt either. One reader was especially taken by a guide picking figs off of a local tree in Puglia for an extra energy boost during a tough climb, as well as another guide singing to the group after dinner. As another reader put it simply: "They exceed your expectations."

Score: 99.12

More information: duvine.com

2. Classic Journeys

Score: 99.04

More information: classicjourneys.com

3. Artisans of Leisure

Score: 98.38

More information: artisansofleisure.com

4. (tie) Black Tomato

Score: 98.33

More information: blacktomato.com

4. (tie) GeoEx

More information: geoex.com

4. (tie) Wilderness Travel

More information: wildernesstravel.com

7. Inside Japan Tours

Score: 98.14

More information: insidejapantours.com

8. Kensington Tours

Score: 98.03

More information: kensingtontours.com

9. Quasar Expeditions

Score: 97.84

More information: quasarex.com

10. TCS World Travel

Score: 97.78

More information: tcsworldtravel.com

11. Butterfield & Robinson

Score: 97.33

More information: butterfield.com

Score: 96.95

More information: tauck.com

13. Trek Travel

Score: 96.90

More information: trektravel.com

14. AdventureWomen

Score: 96.11

More information: adventurewomen.com

15. Explorer Chick

Score: 95.87

More information: explorerchick.com

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“Absolutely EVERYTHING about this trip was perfect: itinerary, food, lodgings, trip leaders, educational opportunities. A perfect example of why Wilderness Travel will always be our first choice when planning adventures.”

“We were taught so much beyond the usual viewpoint given to a tourist that I felt I had a much deeper understanding of the culture and history than I would have if traveling with a different company.”

“An incredible variety of activities was packed into the trip, yet we never felt rushed. It would be impossible to do what we did in the same period of time without the expertise of WT guides.”

“I have dreamed of taking this trip for years. Truly this journey exceeded my expectations on all fronts. The wildlife, terrain, people, staff and fellow trip mates made it an adventure to always treasure. I feel blessed and fortunate. Thank you Wilderness Travel. You have my complete confidence.”

“Because of our Trek Leader’s vast experience in the area, we used several trails that aren’t known to many trekkers and we were invited into Sherpa homes, which was wonderful. I had been dreaming of this trip for 30 years and now those dreams are fulfilled.”

“Couldn’t have asked for a more interesting trip and two outstanding guides, accommodations, and meals. This was our fourth trip with Wilderness Travel and one of the best (although we say that about every trip we have been on!)”

“I love Wilderness Travel! You select the best guides, a variety of special places to stay, the food is always plentiful and cultural, and the adventure is top drawer! Thank you for offering trips that expand one’s knowledge of other cultures while making it enjoyable and fun.”

“We are still on a high a month after the trip, having had wonderful guides, camp crew, co-travelers, and the right mix of comfort and authentic experience.”

“WOW! This was an extraordinary trip. It was meticulously planned, but allowed for many spontaneous interactions and delightful surprises. Another WT success story.”

“This was my first trip to India and I cannot imagine a better introduction. Because of the care with which the trip had been planned and organized, I was able to relax, enjoy, and try to fully absorb the experience without spending even a moment concerned about the quotidian details of the trip. What a luxury.”

“Everyone was so thorough and helpful. It was like being whisked around on a magic carpet. Doors opened, every wish fulfilled, amazing service!”

“It was an indescribable, life-affirming experience that I will always cherish. In particular, I wanted to commend your selection of Trip Leaders. Their skill, thoughtfulness, and dedication made the entire trip seem effortless even though the challenge was great.”

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USA TODAY 10Best

MT Sobek named Best Adventure Travel Company

Best Adventure Travel Company (2022) May 20, 2022

Whether you’re looking for an individualized journey, eco-friendly group tour or multi-generational trip, these 10 adventure travel companies can help you. 

No. 10: Geographic Expeditions - San Francisco, California

GeoEx takes travelers “to the ends of the Earth” on luxury small group tours and custom journeys. Itineraries are grouped by interest, from family, solo travel and special occasions to philanthropy, active or trailblazing.

No. 9: Bindlestiff Tours - Paradise, Nevada

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

No. 8: XGRiD Campers - Las Vegas, Nevada

Travel Expert Chez Chesak tells us about XGRid Campers, “Very cool company that trains people on and then rents overlanding campers for a true backcountry experience.” Campers are available to haul any gear you might need, including kayaks, canoes, and bikes. All trailers are equipped with on-board water and solar power, so standard camping hookups are not required! Units are also suitable for dirt roads and trails, with independent suspension and all-terrain tires, making them much more versatile than traditional travel trailers. Find remote locations others never even know exist!

No. 7: Journeys International - Ann Arbor, Michigan

Journeys International builds private and small group trips based on a variety of worldwide destinations and landscapes, centering each adventure on certain travel goals the individual or group desires to achieve. Each party is assigned an adventure specialist who makes personalized choices of locations and activities to include in the experience. All journeys are designed to give every person involved a special and unique lifetime memory.

No. 6: Nantahala Outdoor Center - Bryson City, North Carolina

Nantahala Outdoor Center is one of the southeast United States' most well-known destinations for outdoor lovers. They offer a variety of experiences, including rafting and kayaking, ziplining, paddleboarding, biking and hiking. NOC will also package several activities into one exciting adventure.

No. 5: Destination Hike - Washington, D.C

Destination Hike’s motto is, “Hiking is for everyone!” They believe hiking strengthens your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, and this community of hikers (open to all levels) meets monthly to hike in various places across the United States. Scheduled events include sunset hikes, hiking and yoga, hiking for stargazing, and a 100-Mile Wilderness hiking expedition in Maine.

No. 4: Urban Events Global - Houston, Texas

Kevin Knight founded Urban Events Global as a travel company for African American adventure seekers looking to explore with like-minded travelers. The company hosts regular camping weekends, as well as group tours to destinations like Cape Town, Barbados, Dubai and Aruba.

No. 3: Austin Adventures - Billings, Montana

Austin Adventures seeks to bring its “WOW Factor” to every trip, whether through spectacular scenery and well-planned itineraries or thoughtful touches, like freshly prepared trailside treats at the end of a hike. Austin Adventures leads multi-sport and active trips to more than 30 countries on all seven continents.

No. 2: Abundant Life Adventure Club - Nashville, Tennessee

Abundant Life Adventures hosts guided outdoor adventure tours and monthly meet-ups near Nashville to inspire wellness and abundant living. Members hike, bike, kayak, and more. Their "epic adventures" are ideal for Black people with "little to no outdoor experience looking to challenge themselves to try something outside their comfort zone and make new friends."

No. 1: MT Sobek - Emeryville, California

MT Sobek have been leaders in the adventure travel industry for more than half a century. Today, travelers can choose from some 200 journeys designed to inspire and exhilarate, with interest categories like Multi-Adventure, Family Adventure, Wildlife & Safari, Adventure Cruising, Wellness, Hiking & Trekking, Cultural Discovery, and Rafting and Kayaking.    

A panel of experts partnered with 10Best editors to pick the initial nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote.

Congratulations to all these winning adventure travel companies!

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

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

The Experts

Chez chesak.

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

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

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Lauren Gay is the creator of Misadventures of the Read More

Lauren Gay is the creator of Misadventures of the Outdoorsy Diva Blog, host/producer of the Outdoorsy Diva Podcast, published photographer, speaker and CEO of Lauren R. Gay Consulting where she offers professional consulting services for blogs and podcasts, courses, as well as curated group adventure trips. She is a travel writer and social media influencer who is passionate about inspiring and empowering black women to step out of their comfort zones for new experiences in travel and adventure and embracing nature as therapy. Lauren is also a dedicated long time advocate for racial diversity and inclusion in outdoor recreation and adventure travel.

10Best Editors

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

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

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

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

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

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

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

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

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

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

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

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

A Taste of the Sweet Life in Slovenia

Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

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

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

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

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

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

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

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

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

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

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

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

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

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

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

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

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

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

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

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

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

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

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

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

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

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

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

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

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

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

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

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

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TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH

Why Travel with GeoEx

GeoEx has been named one of the top tour operators in the world in Travel + Leisure ’s 2022 World’s Best Awards and Conde Nast Traveller ’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards.

A pioneer in designing innovative itineraries, GeoEx has nearly four decades of experience traveling thoughtfully and respectfully to the world’s most astonishing places.

Innovative Itineraries

Unusual travel experiences are not simple to plan, let alone find. And that is what makes GeoEx distinct. Whether you want to sip sweet mint tea with hijab-clad women in Iran, track lions for scientific research in Kenya, or stretch your own soba noodles under the watchful eye of a master maker in Japan─we can make it happen.

Decades of Experience

Forty years of exploring the world and showing our clients the best experience brings our travelers back year after year. Your priorities are important to us. We take the time to discuss your plans and share our expert knowledge. We consistently deliver authentic cultural experiences and the most thrilling out-of-the-ordinary adventures.

Travel with Integrity

We do not travel as escapists. We immerse ourselves in other countries and cultures to appreciate their different perspectives. As a company, we carefully weigh where to invest and build relationships to maximize benefit for the local community. In Tanzania we work with a camp dedicated to empowering local women, and in the Galápagos, giant tortoise research is supported through the ships we sail on.

DESTINATIONS

With our reach, we can connect your explorations across countries and hemispheres.

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Australasia & Oceania

North America

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FEATURED TRIPS

Discover our collection of trips hand-selected by our specialists for fulfilling, beyond-the-ordinary travel.

A Safari Through the Okavango Delta

Exquisite Scenery, Vibrant Culture, and Sacred Festivals

The Best of Northern India’s Natural, Cultural, and Architectural Wonders

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Cruise Island to Island, Meeting Sensational Wildlife

Meet its People and Experience its Vibrant Culture

Set group departures ready for you to book

Private trips custom designed just for you

Handcrafted trips with private jets & the utmost in privacy

TRAVEL BY INTEREST

You don’t have to have your finger pointed to a destination. We’ll work hand-in-hand with you to craft the perfect trip based on your desired interests.

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PRIVATE LUXURY EXPEDITIONS

Lake powell getaway.

A privately guided adventure to Lake Powell, in the scenic Southwest.

Featuring our private exclusive luxury camp, set up in a stunning location.

Excellent guides, superlative services, and world-class activities.

Adventure International (AI) designs unique journeys to the world’s most extraordinary places, tailored from the knowledge of true adventure seekers and travel enthusiasts. We focus on supporting the travel industry with outfitting solutions in Africa, Asia, and the Americas - where we have our own in-country operations for trekking and adventure programs. Over a decade of experience curating trips ensures that clients are very well taken care of with highly qualified and trained guides. We have covered the globe developing consistent product and have amazing partners in place to deliver top notch adventures for a lifetime !

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“Adventure International is one of our ideal Partners for Responsible Travel meeting our guidelines for proper porter treatment consistently in all areas. Their commitment to fair and ethical practices, as well as provision of education to their crew, is exemplary.”

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Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, 5 best international tour companies for adventure travel around the world.

Last Updated on February 19, 2024 by Talita

Who hasn’t dreamed of having unique, once-in-a-lifetime adventures around the world ?

Just picture yourself visiting destinations with stunning landscapes, in close quarters with nature and the other incredible things the place has to offer. The wind running through your hair, adrenaline running through your veins as you see a scene that takes your breath away. For many, this is the dream.

But it doesn’t just have to be a dream! There are adventure travel tour companies that can take you on these types of experiences worldwide, from trips for families to frozen adventures around Antarctica.

But of course, there are lots of options to choose from…so many that it can be hard to decide which company to go with and what tour itinerary to settle on.

With this in mind, I’ve done a lot of research to find what the 5 best companies were for adventure travel tours. In other words, if this is the type of travel you’re looking for, then you’ll certainly find the right company and tour for you.

But before we get to the companies, there’s one thing we have to talk about first…

Table of Contents

• 1 Is it worth going on a tour with an adventure travel company? Or should I just travel by myself?
• 2.1    1. G Adventures      
• 2.2    2. Intrepid Travel
• 2.3    3. Travel Talk
• 2.4    4. Vivalá
• 2.5    6. Tucan Travel
• 3 How do I choose the right tour company for adventure travel?
• 4 Comparison of the best adventure travel tour companies
• 5 How do you choose where to go on your tour? And what to consider before choosing your tour itinerary?
• 6 Planning your next trip?

Is it worth going on a tour with an adventure travel company? Or should I just travel by myself?

To give you an answer, we first need to look at all the pros and cons of traveling with these types of adventure tour companies.

There are also a few other points to consider. For example, if it’s better for you to organize a trip like this by yourself, and if this is worth it in terms of finances and planning.

We say this because it isn’t always easy to find the best prices for adventure excursions individually. Beyond this, trip planning itself can take a lot of time and energy.

Not everyone wants to deal with this, nor do they all have the experience to organize it all. So, we need to consider if it’s worth it or not.

To make your decision easier, we created a table with the pros and cons of going on an organized tour with an adventure travel company. This way, you can decide if this is the best decision for you or if you’re better doing your trip independently.

After taking a look at this table, it should be easier to decide if you really should travel with an adventure tour company overseas, or if you are better off heading out on your own.

What are the best companies for adventure travel tours overseas?

Here, I’ve separated out the 5 tour companies that, in my opinion, are the best when it comes to adventure travel. All of them have good reputation and excellent reviews, but off course you need to know a bit more about them before you decide an organized group tour with them.

The best tour companies for adventure travel are:

• G Adventures
• Intrepid Travel
• Travel Talks
• Vivalá
• Encounters Travel
• Tucan Travel

We’ll go into a bit more details about each one, share their histories, and show what they have to offer. This is the best way for you to understand how they work and what makes each one of them different.

   1. G Adventures       

G Adventures is another great option for anyone looking for international adventure tour travel companies. Created in 1990 by Bruce Boon Tip, the travel company prioritizes sustainable travel with safety.

The original aim was to make it so everyone so could have incredible experiences worldwide like Bruce had on his own backpacking trips.

Since then, the company has grown a lot and today has 28 offices spread around the globe with more than 700 itinerary options for all types of travelers. Like Intrepid, G Adventures also focuses on small group tours so everyone can get the most from their trip while still being able to socialize.

Among the biggest benefits of G Adventures is the customer service, which works 24/7. But the greatest differentiator is, without a doubt, the company’s focus on sustainability and our responsibility to the environment.

A trip with G Adventures will certainly be full of adventures, but you’ll also learn a lot about conservation efforts and what we can do to protect our planet as humans. Definitely a type of trip that’ll help you grow in many ways .

You can choose from excursions and tours around the entire world, from sailing trips about paradisiacal islands to train tours around Asia, India, or Europe.

A few of the tours you’ll find with G Adventures include:

• National Geographic Journeys – in partnership with NatGeo, G Adventures has organized a series of excursions and tours that let travelers explore the most interesting corners of our world with as much comfort and time as you’d like

• Active Tours – tours made just for adventurous travelers! From biking to hiking to whitewater rafting and more…if you like to keep moving and work up a sweat, these tours are made just for you.
• Wellness Travel – These are focused trips for those seeking a balance between body, mind and soul. Filled with activities that fuel this quest, the trip can be made in South America, Central America, Europe or Asia, always with inspiring landscapes to help.    

• Marine Tours – perfect for anyone who loves water. You can choose between cruises, sailing, or other grand adventures like boat trips down the Amazon or the Mekong River. Close contact with wildlife will always be a part of these trips, whether that be the innumerable species in the Amazon rainforest, or the turtles of the Galapagos.

   2. Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel has been offering excursions and adventure travel tours since 1998 when they were created by Darrell and Manch in Melbourne, Australia. Specialized in small group tours , today the company has more than 1,500 employees and has more than 1,000 options for tours and trips.

The biggest differentiator for Intrepid Travel is, without a doubt, their promise of “real life experiences.” In other words, with them you won’t just see a new place, but will be immersed in local culture through genuine experiences with the natives, typical food , and an understanding of what life is actually like there.

Beyond this, Intrepid’s tours are always done in small groups of usually no more than 12 so that the guides can pay attention to everyone while still creating a social atmosphere.

Another benefit of the small group style tours is that you don’t have to have a group arranged ahead of time since you’ll be put in a travel environment where you’ll meet new people .

Plus, Intrepid also has adventure tours for families. These were created with the needs and limitations of each family member in mind so everyone can enjoy their experience. The company has tours and trips across literally every continent, as well as polar trips , which include Antarctica, Greenland and the North Pole . There are several options for you to venture out and get to know any part of the world.

A few of the tours you’ll find with Intrepid Travel include:

• 18-29s Adventures – tours and excursions made for travelers aged 18-29 to meet new people , party, and make the most of every moment in the best years of their lives. This type of tour for young travelers can be done in the Americas, Asia, Europe , the Middle East, or Africa.           
• Intrepid Family Tours – a form of adventure travel that offers comfort and challenge for the entire family at once. You can choose from tours across all the continents, except for Oceania, in more than 50 countries.            
• Polar Tours – these tours include grand adventures in the North Pole, Antartica, and Greenland, all done safely and sustainably. Get ready to visit the coldest and most fascinating places on our planet!

   3. Travel Talk

Travel Talk is one of the fastest growing companies in the field of tours and excursions in the world . One of its main differentials is that it operates with its own tours, this means that when you buy a travel package you will be acquiring a service totally thought and developed by Travel Talk, no third party companies in between.

All tours and excursions are carefully planned to provide the best experience possible, in addition, one of the main points of attention of Travel Talk is the safety of its customers and employees. The company has strict safety protocols following the guidelines of the World Travel and Tourism Council.

In addition to being extremely well known in the tourism industry, most customer reviews fully recommend the service provided. The main compliments made are about the exceptional service with attentive guides and the affordable prices with several flexible payment methods.

The main destinations offered by Travel Talks are: Portugal , Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Africa , Vietnam, Peru, among other options.

Some of Travel Talk’s featured tours are:

• The Best of Vietnam and Cambodia – Experience the best of Vietnam and Cambodia on this 15-day tour through the unparalleled culture, landscapes, stories and food of this region. This tour includes a boat ride on Halong Bay, visits to the famous floating markets, lessons on Cambodian traditions and a visit to one of the world’s most famous religious complexes, the Temples of Angkor Wat.
• Amazing Egypt – This tour is perfect for those who love history and ancient legends. There are 10 days of tours and visits through the history of ancient Egypt. Besides the traditional visits to the pyramids, this package includes tours of the Great Lighthouse and the Great Library, and walks through the bustling streets of Cairo.
• Spain and Portugal explored – If you are an adventurer and have always wanted to explore Europe , this package is for you. This is an 11 day walking tour of the most famous cities, towns and beaches in the region. On this tour you will see many historical and cultural sites, as well as indescribable landscapes and a nightlife you can’t miss.

   4. Vivalá

Vivalá is a company with a differentiated concept, because they seek to join volunteering, nature and community in sustainable tourism expeditions throughout Brazil. These excursions can certainly provide unforgettable experiences!

For them, sustainable tourism is capable of promoting significant improvements in Brazilian communities. Therefore, using the Volunteerism method, you will join tourism and volunteering in a single trip and get to know Brazilian communities rich in culture and history.

How does it all work? First you will receive an online training to understand your duties as a volunteer. During this training you will understand how the action will take place, what to pack , about the culture of the community visited, and local biodiversity. After the training, you will be ready to embark on a unique excursion.

Vivalá prides itself on empowering small entrepreneurs, which means that with your participation you will help leverage the businesses of several local families, get to know local Brazilian cultures, experience truly sustainable tourism , and create passionate memories.

A few of the tours you’ll find with Vivalá include:

• Amazon Expedition – Tapajós River – Meet the riverside community on the banks of the Tapajós River through Vivalá volunteering. The expedition includes meals , accommodation, transportation, a local guide and a Vivalá facilitator, travel insurance and tours in the region.
• Expedition Amazon – Rio Negro – An expedition in the largest tropical rainforest in the world, getting to know the riverside community on the banks of the Rio Negro through volunteering and exploring the local nature in depth. The package includes meals, accommodation , tours and local guides. 

   5. Encounters Travel

With an easy-to-use website, Encounters Travel divides its guided tours into several categories, even having a category for booking last-minute trips.

It is a company with more than 50 years in the market and offers several innovative trips for people who want to leave the standard destinations that the vast majority of people choose to visit, being ideal for adventurers.

Focusing on the each client’s comfort, the tour groups are limited to 20 travelers, so that no one is excluded and everyone can interact with each other! For those who don’t like to travel in group, there are private tour options as well, which can be a little more expensive, but it is up to you and your priorities. 

If you are interested in any destination offered by Encounters Travel, but you want some change in the trip’s itinerary, it is possible to customize it according to your needs, as long as your group agree.

   6. Tucan Travel

Tucan Travel is experiencing financial difficulties due to the pandemic and is not offering tours momentarily. As another option for a company offering guided small group adventure tours, take a look at Travel Talks below.

Tucan Travel is an adventure travel company with lots of experience. Founded in 1987, Tucan has options for tours in more than 70 countries worldwide.

Tucan Travel invites people who travel solo to join their groups so they everyone can add to each other’s knowledge and experience. As the company likes to remind us, a solo trip doesn’t have to be a lonely trip. This means that you can meet and befriend people from around the world , giving you another chance to learn more about other cultures .

The biggest differentiator of Tucan Travel are the unique experiences that the company offers, which ranges from historic visits to extraordinary places like museums, UNESCO world heritage sites, and religious temples, to festivals worldwide where you can try art, music, and local food for yourself.

Tucan Travel even offers trips custom trips for people who want to have an experience created just for them. This isn’t only one of the main benefits of traveling with Tucan, but also one of the safest ways (in all senses) to see the world.

A few of the tours you’ll find with Tucan Travel include:

• The Northern Lights – a trip where you will quite literally chase the northern lights in Iceland. Perhaps an chilly experience, but certainly one you’ll remember forever.            
• Wildlife Spotting – these are the tours for you if you’d like to see wildlife up close and personal. Among the options are seeing the Big Five in Africa and visiting the natural habitat of the Gorillas in Uganda.            
• History & Culture Trips – these types of trips focus on anything that involves history. From ancient constructions to some of the most famous museums in the world . You could travel from Croatia to Hungary exploring the region. Or have a unique experience in South America on the way from Lima to Rio de Janeiro. The options are limitless.

How do I choose the right tour company for adventure travel?

After reading about the 5 companies and understanding more about how they work and what services they offer, many people are unsure of which one is best. But the truth is that there isn’t a best adventure travel tour company. It all depends on your preferences and what type of trip you want to do.

If you’d like to adventure out with friends in small groups, Intrepid or G Adventures could be the right choice for you. But if you’re looking for a personalized adventure, then Tucan Travel could be the one.

It’s also worth mentioning that your choice might change with what you want. Maybe you’re interested in one type of tour today, but you want something more personalized next year, for example. In this case, you can go with two different companies. Each one could be the right choice for that moment in your life.

I created a table below that may also help with your decision. 

Comparison of the best adventure travel tour companies

How do you choose where to go on your tour? And what to consider before choosing your tour itinerary?

Choosing your destination, like choosing your adventure travel tour company, is highly personal. As you can see, there are options for all tastes. From those for people who want to travel alone and meet new people , to families who want to adventure into the world together.

However, there are some questions to ask yourself that should help when you are choosing where to go and what tour to do. Those questions are:

• Why are you traveling? To meet new people? To explore hard-to-get-to destinations? To get in contact with nature? To “find” yourself?            
• Who do you want to travel with?            
• What type of culture are you most interested in?            
• What type of adventure are you looking for?            
• What is the ideal temperature for your trip? Can you handle extreme cold or heat?                     
• Do you prefer ocean or mountains?            
• And how about cities? Do you want your adventure trip to include cities?                        
• What is the level of physical effort that you can and want to do during your trip? (by the way, all the companies above show the level of physical effort necessary for each of their available excursions)           

By answering the questions above, you should have of good idea of what type of destination or adventure tour would be right for you. And, of course, you can add as many questions as you like until you’re ready to start planning. It’s a great exercise to choose where to go!

In conclusion…

What did you think about these 5 international adventure tour companies? Each one of them is a bit different and has its pros and cons, as shown in the table.

Either way, no matter what company or what tour you choose, you’ll have a great trip without the usual stress of organizing an entire trip on your own.

Planning your next trip?

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

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

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

8 Responses

Have been here for a conference this week and this is exactly what I needed to escape from all the hectic down in the city – extremely helpful, thank you very much!

Hey Gunther! Thank you so much for the comment! Good to know the article helped. Looking for an adventure break from work? I’m sure you can find a good tour with one of these 3 companies.

Let me know if you have any questions about it.

All the best!

Good information about Armenia

Hey! Thank you! Glad to know it helped! Let me know if you have any questions about it!

Bhutan is on my bucketlist! 🙂

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Family Adventure Travel Companies

Looking for a company that offers family adventures you and your kids will love? Here are several companies that offer family adventure travel chock-full of activities just for kids, plus adventures the entire family will enjoy as a group. Once you click on these websites, look for links to the family trips. While not on the list, another company to check out is Road Scholar.

G Adventures Around the Globe

G Adventures, which National Geographic Adventure magazine has included in its “Do It All” outfitter list, offers a choice of more than 1,200 adventure travel trips to all seven continents. You can take the kids to Italy, India, ​Egypt, Costa Rica, Peru and many other countries, on trips that offer a mix of family and kid-oriented experiences.

Family Trips With Adventures By Disney

While Mickey Mouse or Donald Duck won't lead one of the family vacations offered by Adventures By Disney, the guides who do are skilled in showing your children the wonders of the world during any of this travel company's adventurous trips.

Ecoventura Family Cruises

In the Galapagos Islands, the family will swim with sea lions, walk among blue-footed boobies and kayak near tiny penguins. Ecoventura offers special family departures throughout the year, and a first parent and teen trip, designed to celebrate high-school graduations. Ecoventura was awarded​ the Conde Nast Traveler's 3rd Annual World Savers Award in the category of Best Overall Cruise Lines.

Austin-Lehman Adventures Visits Alaska, Colorful National Parks & Exotic Lands

Some of the company’s most popular trips, which are offered year after year, include two family adventures: The Yellowstone National Park Family Adventure, and Alberta - Banff & Lake Louise Family Adventure. Adventures for travelers age 16 and older, including Alaska - Kenai Peninsula, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and Costa Rica- Volcanoes & Jungles Multisport Adventure.

REI Adventures Specializes in Active Trips

REI Adventures around the world can take your family ziplining in Costa Rica, hiking in the Amazon jungle, exploring islands in Greece or on a safari in Africa.

Take the Family to Far-Flung Lands with Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel offers family adventures to such exotic lands as Morocco, Egypt, Turkey and Singapore.

Whitewater & Other Adventures With ROW Adventures

ROW Adventures offers such diverse trips as Family Magic rafting trips on Idaho’s Salmon River to a Galapagos Islands multisport trip that includes hiking, snorkeling, sea kayaking and two-nights camping on an island beach.

Heli-hiking in the Canadian Rockies with CMH

Canadian Mountain Holidays offers heli-hiking trips in the Canadian Rockies during the summer that are designed specifically for families.

Thomson Family Adventures Delivers Exciting Vacations

This company's innovative trip categories stretch from family trekking and art adventures to cultures and civilizations. The vacation styles include choices designed to appeal to multigenerational groups, family groups, and parents with teens.

Tips for Choosing a Family Adventure Trip

Choosing and preparing for a family adventure trip that everyone, from your 5-year-old to your teen, will enjoy can be a family venture. Here are some tips for finding and getting ready for your family adventure travel trip.

Adventure Travel Trips with Austin Adventures

Solo Female Travel: Why It's Worthwhile

REI Adventures Offers Great Active Travel Trips

Top Family Vacation Ideas for Kids of Every Age

Best Tour Companies for Singles

The Best Women-Only Adventure Travel Companies

Multi-Sport Trips and Vacations Keep the Adrenaline Pumping

14 Amazing Private Travel Experiences

Extreme Adventure Travel Vacations

Most Popular Family Cruise Lines

13 Amazing Trips to Take Before You Turn 40

6 Historical Journeys You Can Still Take Today

12 Best Places to Visit in December

Should You Visit Alaska by Land or on a Cruise?

The Best Countries in the World for Adventurous Travelers

11 Family Hotels with Amenities Just for Kids

Best International Travel Insurance for April 2024

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The offers and details on this page may have updated or changed since the time of publication. See our article on Business Insider for current information.

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If you're planning your next vacation or trip out of the country, be sure to factor in travel insurance. Unexpected medical emergencies when traveling can drain your bank account, especially when you're traveling internationally. The best travel insurance companies for international travel can step in to provide you with peace of mind and financial protection while you're abroad.

Best International Travel Insurance Companies

Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance

Best for exotic travel: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best for trip interruption coverage: C&F Travel Insured

Best for families: Travelex Travel Insurance

Best for long-term travel: Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Best overall: Allianz

Allianz Travel Insurance  offers the ultimate customizable coverage for international trips, whether you're a frequent jetsetter or an occasional traveler. You can choose from an a la carte of single or multi-trip plans, as well as add-ons, including rental car damage, cancel for any reason (CFAR) , adventure sport, and business travel coverage. And with affordable pricing compared to competitors, Allianz is a budget-friendly choice for your international travel insurance needs. 

The icing on the cake is Allyz TraveSmart, Allainz's highly-rated mobile app, which has an average rating of 4.4 out of five stars on the Google Play store across over 2,600 reviews and 4.8 out of five stars from over 22,000 reviews on the Apple app store. So, you can rest easy knowing that you can access your policy and file claims anywhere in the world without a hassle.

Read our Allianz travel insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

World Nomads Travel Insurance  offers coverage for over 150 specific activities, so you can focus on the adventure without worrying about gaps in your coverage. 

You can select its budget-friendly standard plan, starting at $79. Or if you're an adrenaline junkie seeking more thrills, you can opt for the World Nomads' Explorer plan for $120, which includes extra sports like skydiving, scuba diving, and heli-skiing. And World Nomads offers 24/7 assistance, so you can confidently travel abroad, knowing that help is just a phone call away. 

Read our World Nomads travel insurance review here.

Best for trip interruption: C&F Travel Insured

C&F Travel Insured offers 100% coverage for trip cancellation, up to 150% for trip interruption, and reimbursement for up to 75% of your non-refundable travel costs with select plans. This means you don't have to worry about losing your hard-earned money on non-refundable travel costs if your trip ends prematurely. 

Travel Insured also stands out for its extensive "reasons for cancellation" coverage. Unlike many insurers, the company covers hurricane warnings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Read our Travel Insured review here.

Best for family coverage: Travelex

Travelex Travel Insurance offers coverage for your whole crew, perfect for when you're planning a family trip. Its family plan insures all your children 17 and under at no additional cost. The travel insurance provider also offers add-ons like adventure sports and car rental collision coverage to protect your family under any circumstance. Got pets? With Travelex's Travel Select plan, you can also get coverage for your furry friend's emergency medical and transportation expenses. 

Read our Travelex insurance review here.

Best for long trips: Seven Corners

Seven Corners Travel Insurance offers specialized coverage that the standard short-term travel insurance policy won't provide, which is helpful if you're embarking on a long-term trip. You can choose from several plans, including the Annual Multi-Trip plan, which provides medical coverage for multiple international trips for up to 364 days. This policy also offers COVID-19 medical and evacuation coverage up to $1 million. 

You also get the added benefit of incidental expense coverage. This policy will cover remote health-related services and information, treatment of injury or illness, and live consultations via telecommunication. 

Read our Seven Corners travel insurance review here.

How to find the right international travel insurance company 

Different travelers and trips require different types of insurance coverage. So, consider these tips if you're in the market to insure your trip. 

Determine your needs 

• Consider the nature of your travel (leisure, business, or adventure) and the associated risks (medical emergencies, trip cancellations, etc.).
• Determine your budget and the amount of coverage you require. 
• Consider the duration of your trip and the countries you'll be visiting, as some policies won't cover specific destinations. 

Research the reputation of the company 

• Look for the company's reviews and ratings from reputable sources like consumer advocacy groups and independent website reviews. 
• Check the provider's financial stability and credit ratings to ensure it can pay out claims reliably. 
• Investigate the company's claims process to ensure it can provide timely support if you need to file a claim.

Compare prices

• Get quotes from multiple providers to compare rates and coverage options.
• See if the company provides discounts or special offers to lower your cost. 
• Look at the deductible or any out-of-pocket expenses you may have to pay if you file a claim to determine if you can afford it. 

Understanding international travel insurance coverage options 

Travel insurance can be confusing, but we're here to simplify it for you. We'll break down the industry's jargon to help you understand what travel insurance covers to help you decide what your policy needs. Bear in mind that exclusions and limitations for your age and destination may apply. 

Finding the best price for international travel insurance

Your policy cost will depend on several factors, such as the length of your trip, destination, coverage limits, and age. Typically, a comprehensive policy includes travel cancellation coverage costs between 5% and 10% of your total trip cost.

If you're planning an international trip that costs $4,500, you can expect to pay anywhere from $225 to $450 for your policy. Comparing quotes from multiple providers can help you find a budget-friendly travel insurance policy that meets your needs.

How we reviewed international travel insurance companies

We ranked and assigned superlatives to the best travel insurance companies based on our insurance rating methodology . It focuses on several key factors, including: 

• Policy types: We analyzed company offerings such as coverage levels, exclusions, and policy upgrades, taking note of providers that offer a range of travel-related issues beyond the standard coverages. 
• Affordability: We recognize that cheap premiums don't necessarily equate to sufficient coverage. So, we seek providers that offer competitive rates with comprehensive policies and quality customer service. We also call out any discounts or special offers available. 
• Flexibility: Travel insurance isn't one-size-fits-all. We highlight providers that offer a wide array of coverage options, including single-trip, multi-trip, and long-term policies.
• Claims handling: The claims process should be pain-free for policyholders. We seek providers that offer a streamlined process via online claims filing and a track record of handling claims fairly and efficiently. 
• Quality customer service: Good customer service is as important as affordability and flexibility. We highlight companies that offer 24/7 assistance and have a strong record of customer service responsiveness. 

We consult user feedback and reviews to determine how each company fares in each category. We also check the provider's financial rating and volume of complaints via third-party rating agencies. 

Which company has the best international travel insurance?

The best insurance policy depends on your individual situation, including your destination and budget. However, popular options include Allianz Travel Insurance, World Nomads, and Travel Guard. 

Is international health insurance the same as travel insurance?

International health insurance and travel insurance serve different purposes. While both may cover medical expenses, international health insurance provides long-term health insurance for working abroad. Meanwhile, travel insurance offers short-term coverage for the duration of your trip. 

What insurance do you need for international travel?

Typically, your regular health insurance won't cover you out of the country, so you'll want to make sure your travel insurance has adequate medical emergency coverage. Depending on your travel plans, you may want to purchase add-ons, such as adventure sports coverage, if you're planning on doing anything adventurous like bungee jumping.

Should you get travel insurance for international travel?

Travel insurance is worth the price for international travel because they're generally more expensive, so you have more to lose. Additionally, your regular health insurance won't cover you in other countries, so without travel insurance, you'll end up paying out of pocket for any emergency medical care you receive out of the US.

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• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
• Balashikha Arena
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Bykovo Manor
• Pekhorka Park
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Drama Theatre BOOM
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
• Saturn Stadium
• Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
• Fifth House Gallery
• Church of Vladimir
• Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
• Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall