best travel company in world

The best tour operators in the world: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

It’s been a challenging few years for tour operators but the names below are in it for the long haul (as well as the short and medium), honing itineraries and managing expectations. So who prepared your travel documents this year? Red Savannah and Black Tomato scored highest for first-hand knowledge, and Exodus Adventure Travels and Abercrombie & Kent for on-the-ground support. But when it came to all-round endeavour, Scott Dunn and The Turquoise Holiday Company were leaders of the pack. Both report a surge of interest in Asia, as well as multi-generational travel, solo adventures to Namibia, Bhutan and Mexico, and authentic experiences such as outback stations in Australia and bear lodges in Canada.

These are the best tour operators in the world, according to the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards . The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.

The best general tour operators in the world 2023

15. Cox & Kings. Score 88.00

14. Hayes & Jarvis. Score 89.44

13. Carrier. Score 90.73

12. Simpson Travel. Score 91.48

11. Kuoni. Score 92.82

10. Mr & Mrs Smith. Score 93.29

9. Kensington Tours. Score 94.14

8. Audley Travel. Score 94.77

7. Original Travel. Score 95.44

6. Cazenove + Loyd. Score 95.92

5. The Ultimate Travel Company. Score 96.75

4. Abercrombie & Kent. Score 97.12

3. Elegant Resorts. Score 97.39

2. Red Savannah. Score 97.96

• The Turquoise Holiday Company. Score 98.42

The best travel specialists in the world 2023

15. Wild Frontiers. Score 94.81

14. Martin Randall Travel. Score 95.17

13. Intrepid Travel. Score 95.40

12. Wilderness. Score 96.54.

11. Inntravel. Score 96.88

10. Oxford Ski Company. Score 97.15

9. Kirker Holidays. Score 97.47

8. andBeyond. Score 97.61

7. Ampersand Travel. Score 97.65.

6. InsideJapan Tours. Score 97.79

5. Steppes Travel. Score 97.88

4. Black Tomato. Score 98.03

3. Exodus Adventure Travels. Score 98.15

2. Healing Holidays. Score 98.35

• Scott Dunn. Score 98.70

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My Portfolio
• Latest News
• Stock Market
• Premium News
• Biden Economy
• EV Deep Dive
• Stocks: Most Actives
• Stocks: Gainers
• Stocks: Losers
• Trending Tickers
• World Indices
• US Treasury Bonds
• Top Mutual Funds
• Highest Open Interest
• Highest Implied Volatility
• Stock Comparison
• Advanced Charts
• Currency Converter
• Basic Materials
• Communication Services
• Consumer Cyclical
• Consumer Defensive
• Financial Services
• Industrials
• Real Estate
• Mutual Funds
• Credit cards
• Balance Transfer Cards
• Cash-back Cards
• Rewards Cards
• Travel Cards
• Personal Loans
• Student Loans
• Car Insurance
• Morning Brief
• Market Domination
• Market Domination Overtime
• Opening Bid
• Stocks in Translation
• Lead This Way
• Good Buy or Goodbye?
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Yahoo Finance

Top 20 most valuable travel companies in the world.

In this article, we will discuss the top 20 most valuable travel companies in the world. You can skip our detailed analysis of the global leisure travel market, and go directly to see the Top 5 Most Valuable Travel Companies in the World .

After being severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, global travel and tourism continued its recovery in 2023. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) most recent statistics show that between January and September 2023, approximately 975 million international tourists traveled. Compared to the same period in 2022, this is a noteworthy 38% growth. Additionally, during this time, worldwide tourism recovered to 87% of pre-pandemic levels.

Meanwhile, according to a report by the Brainy Insights the global leisure travel market was valued at $1.2 trillion in 2022. The market is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.8% from 2023 to 2032, reaching a value of $8.6 trillion at the conclusion of the predicted period. The main drivers of this expansion are the growing number of tourists travelling abroad and the rising standards of living of the general public. The rapid integration of big data analytics, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence in travel and tourism is another factor driving the sector. However, the report points out that the leisure travel market can be significantly impacted by geopolitical unrest.

In terms of market share by age group segment in 2022, the 22–31 years segment was in the lead with a share of almost 32%. The report also mentions that, with a 38.7% market revenue share in 2022, Asia Pacific emerged as the largest global leisure travel market. The expansion of the market is anticipated to be driven by the increasing disposable income in the region, particularly in China and India.

Building up on this, according to a global survey by Hilton and Ipsos of over 10,000 travelers from nine countries, the number one reason to travel in 2024 for most of the respondents was to rest and recharge with an emphasis on sleep. The survey also found that 64% of global travelers intend to prioritize leisure travel in 2024 by cutting back on other personal expenses.

On the other hand, travelers are focusing primarily on dining experiences while they budget for 2024, per Hilton. Exploration and adventure ranked second in importance among travelers (47%) after dining experiences, with Millennials and Gen Zers devoting a bigger percentage of their budget than other generations for these experiences.

Don’t Miss: Top 15 Luxury Travel Agencies in the World and 12 Best Travel Stocks to Buy Right Now

The survey further revealed that an astounding 80% of global travelers think it's essential to be able to plan their entire trip online, with 76% appreciating travel apps that reduce the friction and stress of travel. Additionally, it also highlighted that there has been a significant shift in the way individuals do business since the pandemic. Consequently, new trends like blended leisure have emerged, and over one-third of Gen Z and Millennial business travelers plan to extend their trips in order to take advantage of free time before or after work.

Having said that, today we will be taking at a look the top most valuable travel companies in the world which include Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG ), Airbnb, Inc. (NASDAQ: ABNB ), and Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR ) among others.

Our Methodology

For the purpose of this article, we started by compiling a thorough list of all travel companies in the world which come from a variety of sectors, including airlines, hotels, cruises, resorts & casinos and online travel agencies. We then narrowed it down to only include companies with a significant market share and geographical reach. This was achieved by carrying out an extensive analysis of numerous industry papers, financial reports, journals, and news articles.

Top 20 most valuable travel companies in the world have been ranked in ascending order of their market capitalization based on data from Yahoo Finance as of February 21, 2024.

Please note that companies like The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) have not been included because of their engagement in various industries.

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

20. MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM )

Market Capitalization: $13.83 billion

MGM Resorts International (NYSE:MGM), founded in 1986 and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, owns and operates casino, hotel, and entertainment resorts in the United States and Macau. On February 13, MGM Resorts International (NYSE:MGM) reported a Q4 non-GAAP EPS of $1.06 and a revenue of $4.38 billion, outperforming Wall Street estimates by $0.35 and $240 million, respectively.

Moreover, with a market capitalization of $13.83 billion as of February 21, it ranks among the most valuable travel companies in the world on our list.

19. United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: UAL )

Market Capitalization: $14.25 billion

United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:UAL), based in Chicago, Illinois, provides air transportation services to more than 210 destinations in the U.S. and more than 120 destinations internationally.

As of the end of Q4 2023, 43 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database owned stakes in United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:UAL), compared with 34 in the previous quarter. The consolidated value of these stakes is more than $858 million.

18. InterGlobe Aviation Limited

Market Capitalization: $14.36 billion

InterGlobe Aviation Limited, among the top travel companies in the world on our list, is an India-based company that is engaged in the airline business. It has a market cap of $14.36 billion as of February 21.

17. Singapore Airlines Limited

Market Capitalization: $14.77 billion

Singapore Airlines Limited, together with subsidiaries, provides passenger and cargo air transportation services under airline brands such as Singapore Airlines and Scoot. The company has operations in Europe, the Americas, West Asia, Africa, North Asia, Southeast Asia, and Southwest Pacific.

16. Air China

Market Capitalization: $15.02 billion

Air China, the flag carrier of the People's Republic of China and one of the "Big Three" mainland Chinese airlines, was founded in 1988. It is also a member of the Star Alliance, the biggest alliance of airlines in the world. The company had a total of 902 aircrafts as of June 30, 2023.

As of February 21, it has a market cap of $15.02 billion and is one of the most valuable travel companies in the world.

15. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE: IHG )

Market Capitalization: $17.53 billion

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG), with operations in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Greater China, owns, manages, leases, and franchises hotels and resorts. Based in the United Kingdom, the company operates hotels under various brand names such as Six Senses, Regent, InterContinental, Vignette Collection, Kimpton, Hotel Indigo, Voco, HUALUXE, Crowne Plaza, Iberostar, EVEN Hotels, Garner, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn Resort, avid, Atwell suites, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites.

14. Expedia Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: EXPE )

Market Capitalization: $18.53 billion

Expedia Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE), founded in 1996, is a travel technology company. The company generated $2.89 billion in revenues in the fourth quarter of 2023, which beat analysts’ estimates by $10 million.

13. Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE: CCL )

Market Capitalization: $19.28 billion

Based in Miami, Florida, Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) is a multinational cruise company that operates a fleet of cruise ships and offers various vacation and travel experiences to passengers. As of February 21, it has a market cap of $19.28 billion and is one of the top travel companies in the world .

Moreover, hedge funds like the company. The number of hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey owning stakes in Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) grew to 41 in Q4 2023, from 33 in the previous quarter. These stakes have a total value of more than $1.48 billion.

12. Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV )

Market Capitalization: $20.20 billion

Founded in 1967, Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) is a passenger airline company offering scheduled air transportation services within the United States and in nearby international regions. The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.18 per share on January 31, which was consistent with its previous dividend.

11. Galaxy Entertainment Group

Market Capitalization: $25.22 billion

Galaxy Entertainment Group, incorporated in 1987 and based in Hong Kong, is an investment holding company, which engages in the management of casino games and provision of hospitality and related services. It has a market cap of $25.22 billion as of February 21.

10. Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE: DAL )

Market Capitalization: $26.11 billion

Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL), based in Atlanta, Georgia, offers more than 4,000 flights per day between more than 275 destinations on six continents. It is one of the biggest travel companies in the world .

The company generated $14.22 billion in revenues in the fourth quarter of 2023, which beat analysts’ estimates by $420 million.

Insider Monkey’s database of Q4 2023 indicated that 53 hedge funds owned stakes in Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL), which remained the same as in the previous quarter. The total value of these stakes is over $1.56 billion.

9. Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ: TCOM )

Market Capitalization: $27.03 billion

Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:TCOM), with over 45,100 employees and over 400 million members, is a travel service provider offering accommodation reservations, transportation ticketing, package tours, and corporate travel management. It was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Shanghai, China. The stock has returned 15.08% to investors on a year-to-date basis as of February 21.

In addition, Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:TCOM) ranks among the largest travel companies in the world on our list.

8. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE: RCL )

Market Capitalization: $29.52 billion

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL), based in Miami, Florida, is a cruise operator that operates three famous cruise brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. As of February 21, it boasts a market capitalization of $29.52 billion.

As per Insider Monkey’s database of Q4 2023, 54 hedge funds held stakes in Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL), up from 41 in the previous quarter. These stakes have a collective value of approximately $2.4 billion.

7. Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ: RYAAY )

Market Capitalization: $31.54 billion

Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY), parent company of Ryanair, Ryanair UK, Buzz, Lauda and Malta Air, is an Irish company that provides airline services. It connects over 240 destinations in over 40 countries. With a market capitalization of $31.54 billion as of February 21, it is among the top 10 most valuable travel companies in the world on our list.

In its fourth quarter 2023 investor letter, Oakmark International Fund stated the following regarding Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY):

“Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY) (Ireland), a European ultra-low-cost airline, was the top contributor to the Fund’s performance this quarter. Ryanair released strong results for the first half of fiscal-year 2024 and was accompanied by an even stronger outlook, in our view. The company’s revenue grew 30% year over year, and average fares increased by 24% to EUR 58, driven by record demand and constrained capacity at European peers. Total passengers flown expanded 11% year over year to 105.4 million, and management is on track to maintain its target of 183.5 million passengers for 2024, depending on Boeing’s ability to meet its delivery commitments. Management is expecting full-year 2024 net income to be between EUR 1.85-2.05 billion ahead of the EUR 1.82 billion consensus estimate. The company’s strong free cash flow levels and balance sheet allowed Ryanair to reinstate a EUR 400 million dividend (35 cents per share). We spoke with CEO Michael O’Leary about additional uses for its excess capital and were happy to hear about an incremental EUR 1.5 billion return to shareholders starting in 2025. We continue to be optimistic about Ryanair’s future.”

6. Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE: LVS )

Market Capitalization: $39.98 billion

Founded in 1988, Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) owns, develops, and operates various integrated resort properties primarily in the United States, Macau, and Singapore.

Hedge funds like the company. Insider Monkey’s database of Q4 2023 indicated that 48 hedge funds owned stakes in Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS), compared with 45 in the preceding quarter. The consolidated value of these stakes is nearly $2.5 billion.

Click to continue reading and see Top 5 Most Valuable Travel Companies in the World .

Suggested Articles:

30 Most Valuable Drug Companies in 2024

15 Highest Quality Fish Oil Supplements for 2024

30 Largest Companies in the World by Revenue

Disclosure: None. Top 20 Most Valuable Travel Companies in the World  is published on Insider Monkey.

Bizvibe Blog

Global B2B Marketplace for Supplier Selection, Vendor Selection

Top 10 Travel Companies in the World by Sales in 2020, Travel Industry Factsheet

The Current State of the Travel Industry

As economic prosperity rises all over the world, the top 10 travel companies in the world are contributing to stellar growth and driving critical innovation by leveraging technology in a modern travel industry.

How big is the travel industry?  As the economy for travel and tourism becomes more lucrative for a global audience, the travel industry grows as well. The global travel industry has grown from USD 6.03 trillion in 2006 to USD 8.27 trillion by 2017, growing at a CAGR of 2.9% — making the travel and tourism industry one of the world’s largest industries in the world in terms of global economic contribution (direct, indirect and induced).

• Discover who are the top 10 travel companies in the world by sales in 2020?
• A complete ranking and breakdown of 20 of the top travel companies in the global travel industry right now.
• Travel and tourism industry trends and stats you should know.

BizVibe is already helping the top travel companies in the world connect. Connect and track the latest news and insights from these companies.

Try BizVibe Free

Travel Industry Trends and Stats

• Convenient booking remains the biggest trend in the global travel industry.
• Solo Travel: Leisure travel is no longer just a family affair.
• The travel and tourism industry generated 10.4 percent of all global economic activity last year.
• The travel industry is the second-fastest-growing sector in the world, ahead of healthcare (+3.1%), information technology (+1.7%) and financial services (+1.7%), and behind only manufacturing.
• Last year, travel and tourism increased its share of leisure spending to 78.5 percent.
• Three in five travel companies say they offer customer service via chat.

Top 10 Travel Companies in the World by Sales in 2020

Who are the top 10 travel companies in the world by sales as of 2020? The following is a list of largest adventure travel companies and top travel agencies ranked by sales generated in USD billion.

1.    Expedia Group

What is the best travel agency? That’s a hard and subjective question to answer, but if you were to go by the best travel agency in the world in terms of sales, then your answer is Expedia Group. Expedia Group is an American online travel shopping company for consumer and small business travel. The company is mainly known for its travel fare aggregator websites where you can drop in and book all your travel needs from flights, car rentals, and even hotels. Expedia is also a metasearch engine to search up and plan your entire travel plans.

Expedia is a travel technology company that brought in sales of USD 99 billion last — making it the leaders in sales among the top 10 travel companies in the world on this list. In addition to the main expedia.com website, the company runs multiple websites from the best travel companies including Travelocity and trivago.

• Founded: 1996
• Expedia Group Headquarters: Bellevue, Washington, USA
• Expedia Group Sales: USD 99 billion
• Expedia Group Number of Employees: 24,000

Expedia Group Products and Services

• Classic Vacations
• Expedia CruiseShipCenters
• Expedia Local Expert
• Expedia Partner Solutions
• Hotwire Group
• Travelocity

2.    Booking Holdings

Number 2 on this list of the top 10 travel companies in the world is the American company Booking Holdings Inc. The company is known for operating travel fare aggregator websites and travel and tourism search engines such as its flagship booking.com, as well as Priceline.com, Agoda.com, Kayak.com, Cheapflights, Rentalcars.com, Momondo, and OpenTable. Booking Holdings generated sales of USD 92.7 billion last year, with nearly 90% of its profits coming from booking.com and outside the USA. Book Holdings is truly a global travel company that is expected to continue generating stellar sales within the global market.

• Booking Holdings Headquarters: Norwalk, Connecticut, USA
• Booking Holdings Sales: USD 92.7 billion
• Booking Holdings Number of Employees: 24,500

Booking Holdings Products and Services

               .

• Cheapflights

3.    American Express Global Business Travel

American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) is 3 rd on this list of the top 10 travel companies in the world. GBT is a corporate management travel company operating under a 50% ownership stake from American Express. GBT is known as a business travel management company, major corporations use GBT’s services to manage corporate travel and meetings programs, providing services and support to business travelers.

Last year, GBT brought in sales of USD 33.7 billion — making it one of the top travel companies going by sales figures.

• Founded: 2016
• American Express Global Business Travel Headquarters: Jersey City, New Jersey, USA
• American Express Global Business Travel Sales: USD 33.7 billion
• American Express Global Business Travel Number of Employees: 17,400

4.    BCD Travel

BCD Travel ranks 4 th on BizVibe’s list of the best travel companies by sales figures in 2020. BCD Travel is a provider of global corporate travel management and the largest travel company in the Netherlands. Currently, the company operates in over 109 countries and last year generated USD 27.1 billion in sales. BCD Travel’s parent company is BCD Group, a privately held Dutch company focused on travel services and corporate travel management.

• Founded: 2006
• BCD Travel Headquarters: Utrecht, Netherlands
• BCD Travel Sales: USD 27.1 billion
• BCD Travel Number of Employees: 13,800

BCD Travel Products and Services

• Travel management
• Travel consulting, meetings and events

5.    CWT

Formerly known as Carlson Wagonlit Travel, CWT ranks 5 th on this list of the top 10 travel companies in the world by sales in 2020. CWT is a travel management company that manages business travel, meetings, incentives, conferencing, exhibitions, and handles event management. The company is known for running a top tier B2B travel management platform, offering business travel, technology, and meetings and events management across 145 countries.

Last year, CWT generated sales of USD 25 billion — making it one of the top travel companies in the world in terms of transactional sales.

• Founded: 1994
• CWT Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
• CWT Sales: USD 25 billion
• CWT Number of Employees: 18,000

6.    Flight Centre Travel Group

6 th on BizVibe’s list of the top 10 travel companies in the world is Flight Centre, the largest retail travel agency in Australia.  Flight Centre is headquartered in Brisbane and was founded in 1982. Flight Centre operates over 2,800 stores and offices under various retail and corporate brands in n Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, South Africa, Hong Kong, India, China, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, and Mexico.

Last year, Flight Centre generated USD 16 billion making it one of the top travel agencies in the world by sales numbers. 50% of the company’s sales come from leisure and 50% from business.

• Founded: 1982
• Flight Centre Headquarters: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
• Flight Centre Sales: USD 16 billion
• Flight Centre Number of Employees: 20,600

7.    Travel Leaders Group

Ranking 7 th on BizVibe’s list of the top 10 travel companies in the world is the Travel Leaders Group, a multi-unit travel industry company headquartered in New York City that has more than 7,000 company-owned, franchised and affiliated travel agency locations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Mexico. The company has more than 52,000 travel agents worldwide and last year generated sales of USD 7.12 billion — making it one of the best travel agencies around. USD 3.73 billion in sales come from 52,000 hosted agents.

• Travel Leaders Group Headquarters: New York City, New York, USA
• Travel Leaders Group Sales: USD 12 billion
• Travel Leaders Group Number of Employees: 4,000

8.    American Express Travel

American Express Travel is a full-service global travel and lifestyle network and 8 th on this list of the top 10 travel companies in the world by sales. Last year the company generated sales of USD 6.27 billion. In March 2014, American Express announced that it signed an agreement to create a joint venture for business travel and spun off its corporate travel business like American Express Global Business Travel

• Founded: 1915
• American Express Travel Headquarters: New York City, New York, USA
• American Express Travel Sales: USD 6.27 billion
• American Express Travel Number of Employees: 5,000

9.    Direct Travel

Direct Travel is a leading travel management company, DT creates personalized solutions through an agile approach to corporate travel, meetings & events, and leisure. The company ranks 9 th on BizVibe’s list of the top 10 travel companies in the world due to its stellar sales figures — generating USD 5.4 billion in transactional sales last year.

DT sells directly to consumers for corporate travel, meetings and incentives, group travel, and leisure vacations., with 87% of its sales coming from its business segment; 8% from leisure, and 5% from all other avenues.

• Founded: 1980
• Direct Travel Headquarters: Centennial, Colorado, USA
• Direct Travel Sales: USD 5.4 billion
• Direct Travel Number of Employees: 2,000

10.  Corporate Travel Management

Rounding out BizVibe’s list of the top 10 travel companies in the world in 2020 is Corporate Travel Management, a global provider of innovative and cost-effective travel solutions spanning corporate, events, leisure, loyalty, and wholesale travel. CTM provides local service solutions to customers around the world, through a blend of CTM owned and operated offices and a network of independent partner agencies. Last year, CTM generated USD 5 billion in sales — making it one of the top travel companies in the world by sales numbers.

• Corporate Travel Management Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, USA
• Corporate Travel Management Sales: USD 5 billion
• Corporate Travel Management Number of Employees: 725

This is BizVibe’s list of the top 10 travel companies in the world in 2020 by sales. These companies are changing the way businesses are pushing the boundaries in the global travel industry and are leveraging technology to push travel agencies and corporate travel management to new heights.

Reach out to the top travel companies on BizVibe today.

Top Travel Companies by Sales in 2020

The following is BizVibe’s complete ranking of the top travel companies in the world by sales figures in 2020.  This list of travel companies are paving the way for success in the travel industry, connect with them on the BizVibe platform to track the latest news and insights from these companies.

The Future of the Global Travel Industry

What’s the future of the global travel industry? As economic prosperity rises throughout the world, the travel industry will be flooded by people from all over the world, and businesses are going to be at the forefront of this growth pushing their services to meet demand. Expect the top 10 travel companies in the world to continues pushing the industry to new heights. The main thing to keep in mind going forward as more people travel from all over the world is that the future will be about more travelers and easier to reach places

Connect on BizVibe

Related Articles

• Top 10 Largest Pharmaceutical Companies in the World by Revenue 2020
• Top 10 Largest Insurance Companies in the World by Asset Size in 2020

Related Posts

Top 3 Most Popular Plant Protein Products

The popularity and availability of plant protein is increasing as many consumers’ diets and lifestyles undergo radical change. A greater…

Top 10 Largest Sports Betting Companies in the World by Revenue 2022, Largest Sports Gambling Companies

Complete list of the top 10 largest sports betting companies by revenue in the world in 2022. Bet365, GVC, IGT, see where these companies rank in 2022.

Indian Textile Machinery Industry Expects a Tremendous Growth

The Indian textile machinery industry is experiencing a tremendous growth, facilitated by the country’s booming textile and apparel market. Currently,…

Manage Settings

Get 50+ Insights for 45K Travel Companies | Risk Reports | Financials | Top Competitors | Regional Trends Try for Free>>

Top 10 largest travel companies in the world

The top ten largest travel companies in the world come from a variety of sectors, including airlines, hotels, cruises and online travel agencies. In this article, their listing is based on their market value using data from the S&P platform IQ. Of course, among the leading companies is Airbnb, which although it entered the New York Stock Exchange in 2020, managed in the last days of September to exceed the capitalization limit of 100 billion dollars. The list also includes large hotel chains such as Marriott International and Hilton Worldwide.

The Boeing Co. holds the first place of the list. Its’ market value is about 125 billion dollars. In a recent forecast, Boeing projects steady growth and greater sustainability for Europe’s commercial aviation fleet over the next 20 years, as the vast majority of the existing fleet is replaced with more fuel-efficient models. European carriers will need 8,705 new airplanes valued at €1.25 trillion through 2040, according to the 2021 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO), Boeing’s long-term forecast of demand for commercial airplanes and services. Also, the Boeing Company announced on the 29th of September the appointment of Kuljit Ghata-Aura as the new president of Boeing Middle East, Turkey and Africa (META).

Airbnb holds the second place of the list with 105,8 billion dollars market value. The Airbnb short-term rental platform, founded in 2007, was hardly hit by the pandemic, losing about 80% of its turnover in a matter of months. Fortunately, this summer recovered dynamically as new trends were revealed. Zoom and other technologies that enable remote working have created a new class of workers. Based on this trend, the company saw its revenues increase.

In the third place is Booking Holdings and in fourth place is another aircraft manufacturer Airbus, while the top five is completed by Oriental Land, a Japanese company with more than 60 years of presence in the field of leisure and tourism. The market value of Booking Holdings is 95,8 billion dollars, while the market value of Airbus and Oriental Land is 88,3 and 51 billion dollars respectively. The Oriental Land’s net sales at the 3rd quarter of 2021 were 137,113 million yen from 59,149 million yen at the second quarter of 2021.

Marriott International holds the 6th place of the list with 47 billion dollars market value. Marriott International has recently announced that has signed 22 new hotel agreements in South Asia – comprising India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Nepal – in the past 18 months, expecting to add more than 2,700 rooms to its fast-growing portfolio. Marriott International currently is the hotel chain with the largest number of rooms in the South Asia region and expects to continue its solid growth with these new signings.

Hilton Worldwide holds the position number seven of the list with 36,6 billion dollars market value. Hilton has announced that it will cut its environmental footprint in half and double its social impact investment by 2030. In other words, Hilton Worldwide is in the process of reducing carbon emissions by 61% and water waste by 50%.

Southwest Airlines, Las Vegas Sands and Amadeus IT complete the list with the top 10 largest travel companies in the world. The market value of the Southwest Airlines is 28,9 billion dollars, while the market value of Las Vegas Sands and Amadeus IT is 28,7 and 27,3 billion dollars respectively. Las Vegas Sands Corporation is an American casino and resort company based in Paradise, Nevada, United States. The company was founded in 1988 by Sheldon Adelson, while the revenue reached 3.612 billion dollars in 2020.

Lastly, Amadeus IT Group is a major Spanish IT provider for the global travel and tourism industry. The company was founded in 1987 and reached 5.578 billion euros revenue in 2019.

This report/news/ranking/statistics has been prepared only for general guidance on matters of interest and does not constitute professional advice. You should not act upon the information contained in this publication without obtaining specific professional advice. No representation or warranty (express or implied) is given as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this publication, and, to the extent permitted by law, CEOWORLD magazine does not accept or assume any liability, responsibility or duty of care for any consequences of you or anyone else acting, or refraining to act, in reliance on the information contained in this publication or for any decision based on it.

Email Address*

Maria Gourtsilidou

Best Books for Examining Modern Motherhood

How to recognize the signs of stress in yourself, your colleagues and your team

My Smartest Mistake

The Evolving Landscape of the C-Suite: Navigating Complexity with Precision

Getting To Grips with Change Management in a Fast and Furious Business Climate

15 Best Tour Companies of 2024

Tour companies like Intrepid Travel and G Adventures can help you create the experience of a lifetime. Choosing the right company depends on your destination and travel preferences.

Guided tours can be a great way to experience a new destination, but you want to make sure you get the best experience possible. How can you find the best tour companies to guide your adventure?

Whether you’re looking for group trips, self-guided tours, river cruises, tours for solo travelers, or overseas adventure travel, you want to find a tour operator that can deliver a seamless, enjoyable, and authentic experience, all without zeroing out your bank account.

Here are the top 15 tour companies out there today. I’ll walk you through what each excels at and how to pick the best one for you.

Intrepid Travel : Best Tour Company Overall

When you imagine travel tours, you may picture massive group tours and a bus packed with 50 noisy, gawking tourists.

That’s not what you get with Intrepid Travel . This company specializes in adventurous and immersive small group tours with an average of 10 people.

Operating on all seven continents, Intrepid offers a huge range of trip types to fit any traveler. You can choose biking tours across New Zealand, river cruises in Europe, trekking in the Himalayas, or wildlife safaris in the Serengeti. There are options for all-female adventures, family expeditions, active trips for adventure travelers, or trips catering specifically to 18-29 year olds.

If you don’t want to spend the trip of a lifetime sitting on your butt looking out a bus window, Intrepid Travel is for you. Their group trips are designed to fully immerse you in the culture and beauty of a new place. Here are two examples of what you’ll get from Intrepid Travel:

With the Alaska: Hike, Bike, & Kayak tour, you are led by an expert guide on a range of active adventures through some of Alaska’s best scenery and national parks. You’ll go sea kayaking, cycle along the rugged Alaskan coast, and hike through Denali National Park.

If you’re looking for more of a cultural experience, the Premium Sri Lanka tour is an incredible journey through the culture, history, food, and wildlife of this island. You’ll explore ancient temples, eat incredible food with locals, and search for leopards in the country’s wildlife preserves.

One last perk: Intrepid Travel is a Certified B-Corp, meaning they are dedicated to doing good in the world. They donate to worldwide relief causes and offset the carbon footprint of every trip they operate.

G Adventures : Best Small Group Tour Company

If you’re looking for small group tours, G Adventures is one of the best in the category. Just like with Intrepid, their tour groups average 10 people, so, with G Adventures, you won’t have to deal with being part of a massive hoard of tourists.

So what sets G Adventures apart? Unlike many tour operators, they focus on helping you get exactly the experience you’re looking for instead of packing every day with a rigid schedule. Every trip offers a wide range of optional activities that you can pick and choose from to personalize your experience. Plus, you can opt for more free time to explore or hang out on your own.

I also love that G Adventures hires all local guides. They put a lot of emphasis on their guides, even calling them CEOs (chief experience officers). That means you get local, insider expertise on your trip. Your tour director will speak the local language, know the best spots to eat, and fully understand the culture.

If you’re looking for big luxurious hotels and resorts, G Adventures probably isn’t for you. Instead of going to the big chain hotels, G Adventures uses locally owned and operated lodgings.

This has two benefits. First, you get a much more authentic local experience. Big hotel chains don’t have the same charm and character as a true local hotel. Second, your money will go toward benefiting the local economy rather than some giant corporation. That’s a big win for G Adventures in my book.

Get Your Guide : Best for Day Tours

You may not need or want a fully guided multi-day group tour, But sometimes it’s nice to have the guidance of a local expert for a truly unique experience that you couldn’t get otherwise. Choosing day tours is a great way to get the benefits of guided group tours without being stuck with a tour group for your entire trip.

Get Your Guide is my favorite resource for finding amazing day tours, entry tickets, and other travel experiences. It’s perfect for more independent travelers who can manage the details of their own trip, but are looking for shorter guided tours.

How does it work? Get Your Guide is essentially an online marketplace where you can search for and reserve tours, museum passes, adventure activities, and more.

For example, let’s say you’re planning a trip to Sweden. On Get Your Guide, you could book a dog sled adventure to see the northern lights, a day cruise on an icebreaker ship, a “ghost-walk” historical tour of Old Stockholm, and a guided ice climbing excursion.

I’m already getting excited about that trip.

Go Ahead Tours : Best Tour Company for Solo Travelers

Solo travel can be a bit intimidating, especially if you don’t have a lot of travel experience. I’ve found that group tours can be a great way to ease some of the stress and make it easier to enjoy your trip as a solo traveler.

Go Ahead Tours is one of the best tour companies that specializes in trips for solo travelers. With their solo trips, you always get a private room at no extra cost, and the other travelers in your tour group will also be solo—so you don’t end up as the awkward 17th wheel in someone else’s family vacation. As a solo traveler with Go Ahead Tours, you get all the benefits and security of a group trip, and you’ll meet other amazing people traveling the world on their own.

Go Ahead Tours focuses on small group itineraries in tour destinations around the globe, from popular destinations to locations off the beaten path. Want a food-centric trip across Italy? Check. Want to visit South America and hike to Machu Picchu? Check. How about a wildlife safari in Kenya? Yep, they’ve got that. Go Ahead Tours offers the best group tours for solo travelers, and you may even make some new friends on the way.

Adventures by Disney : Best Tour Company for Families

Family travel can seem complicated, especially if you have younger kids. Group tours can help simplify planning the dream trip, but tour operators often plan trips focused on adults, so younger travelers may get bored quickly.

Adventures by Disney is one of the few group travel companies that specialize in family-oriented trips and tours, from South America to Scandinavia. Disney Vacations designs their group trips to have something for everyone: wine tastings for the adults, adventure scavenger hunts for the kids, and sights and experiences that will engage your entire family.

Disney Adventures trips are a bit pricier than many other group travel companies, so not all families will be able to afford them. However, if you can make it work with your budget, your family will get an amazing experience that you just won’t find from more mainstream travel.

Trafalgar : Best Tour Company for Seniors

Trafalgar is one of the biggest (and best) group travel companies in the world. They offer hundreds of international trips to popular destinations around the globe.

Trafalgar’s guided tours are great for travelers of all age groups, but they cater particularly to senior travelers. The majority of Trafalgar guests are over 50. It’s also great for family tours to get grandparents and grandkids spending quality time together.

If you’re looking for highly active itineraries with adventure activities packed in, Trafalgar may not be the best for you. They focus more on cultural immersion, history, architecture, and local cuisine. Trafalgar is a great choice if you want to take a deep dive into the essence of your destination.

You can count on having a tour leader who is an expert in the local culture and history, and you will come home with tons of new knowledge.

Trafalgar focuses primarily on land-based tours, but they also offer a range of cruise vacations if you want to travel by sea.

Hotel stays, meals, transportation to/from the airport, and all the logistics are all arranged for you. You can even add on flights, extra hotel nights, and travel insurance so you don’t have to worry about any additional complications for your trip.

Tauck : Best Tour Company for Europe

Tauck is another big name in group tours that operates on all seven continents. While they have guided tours all around the globe, Tauck is an especially good choice if you’re looking for a group tour in Europe.

It’s easy to go to European cities, see the major tourist sites, and head home without really diving deep into the culture and spirit of the place. My favorite thing about Tauck is that their European tours are designed to give you more than just the standard tourist experience. Their Yellow Roads of Europe tours take you off the beaten path for a truly unique European experience.

Every Tauck tour pairs you with handpicked expert local guides who will help fully immerse you in the experience.

Tauck offers both river cruises and land-based group tours. If you want a unique European experience, imagine cruising through Western Europe along the Seine.

Insight Vacations : Best Tour Company for Italy

Almost every traveler dreams of a bucket list trip to Italy. What’s not to love? Amazing food, amazing sights, amazing culture, Italy has it all.

If you’re looking for the best guided tours in Italy, I highly recommend Insight Vacations . Insight offers tours all over the world, but their Italy tours are especially good. Whether you want to see the major sights, learn to live like a local, or sample the best food from around the country (or all of the above!) they’ve got tours for you.

As an example, you could choose their Best of Italy Tour for your next trip. This 11-day tour includes stays in Rome, Florence, Venice, and more. You’ll learn from local artisans, eat farm-to-table meals on the foothills of Mount Vesuvius, and get a VIP tour of the Vatican (including areas normally off-limits to visitors).

Insight’s tours are all led by local tour guides who speak the language and have in-depth knowledge of the culture and history of each site you visit.

If you’re traveling with a group of 10 or more people, Insight Vacations can also put together custom itineraries specifically for your group.

CIE Tours : Best Tour Company for Ireland and Scotland

If you’re into history, stunning scenery, charming towns, or good times at the pub, you would probably love touring Ireland and Scotland. CIE Tours is technically based in the US, but it’s partially owned and operated by the Irish government. It specializes in travel to Ireland, Scotland, and a few other European countries.

This dialed-in focus means that there are no better guided tours for Ireland and Scotland. I highly recommend their Taste of Scotland and Ireland Tour . In 11 days, you’ll experience sightseeing in Glasgow and Dublin, a day cruise on Loch Ness, carriage rides through the Irish countryside, and a feast in a historic castle.

Their tours have a great balance of exciting sightseeing and activities with enough downtime to relax or do plenty of exploring on your own. It’s a great way to get all the benefits of group travel without feeling like you have no control over your schedule.

If you want more freedom, CIE also offers independent adventures. They will build an itinerary for you and book your lodgings, admission tickets to attractions, and rental car (or you can opt for a private driver). You can choose from their pre-packaged itineraries, or build your own custom trip.

I also appreciate that CIE Tours has fairly affordable rates that include all admission tickets and most of your meals. Plus, they often offer discounts on airfare!

Nicetravel Iceland : Best Iceland Tour Company

Maybe you’ve always been intrigued by Iceland’s wild, untamed beauty (I know I have). If you want to experience this first hand, Nicetravel Iceland is one of the best group travel companies in this amazing country.

Nicetravel Iceland by three local Icelandic families, so they have a lot of local expertise. They offer trips ranging from 8 hours to over a week and have itineraries to suit any type of traveler, whether you want to relax in natural hot spring pools or hike along the glaciers and coastlines.

They focus on small group tours, and you’ll never have more than 19 people in your group. Most of their tours start from the capital, Reykjavik, and will drive you to various destinations in Mercedes Sprinter Vans. Way better than the huge tour buses many other companies use.

In addition to standard tours for sightseeing, they also have a range of tour options for more adventurous travelers. You’re in the right place if you want to explore caves, hike on glaciers, or raft down raging rivers.

Cosmos : Best Tour Company for Spain and Portugal

For a tour operator on the Iberian Peninsula, Cosmos is one of the best choices, especially if you don’t want to spend an arm and a leg. Cosmos has been guiding group travel for nearly a century, and they employ expert local guides to help you get the most from your trip.

The Cosmos Best of Spain and Portugal Tour is an incredible 13-day group travel itinerary. You will stay in 7 amazing cities across the two countries and visit a wide range of historical sites.

Cosmos is also a good choice for responsible travel, as they have several initiatives to support local communities and planet-focused nonprofits like the African Wildlife Foundation, The Ocean Cleanup, and Trees4Travel. I appreciate companies that are taking steps toward sustainable travel.

Exodus : Best Egypt Tour Company

It’s hard to visit any travel website without seeing a picture of the Great Pyramids. Egypt has captivated the minds of explorers and travelers for centuries, and it is worth having on your bucket list.

If you want a guided tour of Egypt, I highly recommend Exodus Travels . With destinations on all seven continents, Exodus Travels is one of the most popular group travel companies for adventurous travelers, and their Egyptian tours are particularly good.

With 9 different guided tours in Egypt, you can find the perfect itinerary for your trip. Exodus Travels is a true expert in the industry and hires incredible guides for their group travel excursions.

Plus, Exodus Travels also offers trips that are perfect for family travel.

Klook : Best Asia Tour Company

Whether you want to experience the hustle and bustle of downtown Tokyo or an adventurous trek to Everest Base Camp, Klook is one of the best group travel companies for Asia.

Klook is more than just a tour operator. It is a marketplace for everything travel, from airline tickets to hotels to tickets to museums, theme parks, and more. Klook offers trips for small groups or individual travelers all around the globe, but they are based in Asia, and that’s where they focus.

Klooks South Korea Tour will take you to Nami Island, through beautiful gardens, and into a centuries-old palace in Seoul.

Click Tours : Best Tour Company for Israel

Click Tours specializes in group travel in Europe and the Middle East, and Israel is by far their most popular tour destination. In Israel, Click Tours will offer trips ranging from 3-day highlight tours to 18-day deep-dive cultural experiences.

They focus on small group travel, and your tour group will have 15-24 guests. That means you get more personal attention and a more authentic experience of the country.

A tour of Israel with Click Tours will focus on historical and archeological sites. You’ll visit temples and ruins that are thousands of years old as well as dive into the amazing food and rich culture of Israel.

Epos Travel Tours : Best Tour Company for Greece

If you’re looking for a group travel trip to Greece, Epos Travel Tours is a local company based in Tripolis that offers tours across the country.

Since Epos Travel Tours specializes only in Greece, you can expect catered trips and insider knowledge. They are truly the experts in travel to Greece, and their trip itineraries are designed to help you get the most from your trip, whether you want to visit historical sites or delve into amazing food and culture.

If you’re into history and architecture, their tour of Ancient Corinth is hard to beat!

Best Tour Companies FAQ

Which is the best tour company in the world.

In my experience, Intrepid Travel is the best tour operator. They have amazing small-group tours.

What are the top travel companies?

The top travel companies for tours include Intrepid Travel , G Adventures , and Trafalgar .

Is Globus or Trafalgar better?

Trafalgar is usually the better choice. They offer amazing all-inclusive tours around the world.

Are tour companies worth it?

Group travel can be worth it if you want the stress and planning taken out of your trip.

Who is the biggest tour company?

Disney is the biggest tour company by revenue.

How do you know if a tour company is legit?

It is a good idea to look for reviews of a tour company on TripAdvisor.

Jakob Thygerson

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search our latest articles, reviews and gear guides

• TravelFreak on Instagram
• TravelFreak on Facebook
• TravelFreak on Twitter
• TravelFreak on Pinterest

Sign up now and get the best gear, travel tips, deals and destinations, straight to your inbox.

Thank you for signing up!

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

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.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

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. 

8 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2023

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. 

The 10 Best Sites to Book a Cruise

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.

Program These Numbers Into Your Phones Before Traveling Internationally

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.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

For independent explorers who don’t want to miss out on these amazing destinations, book your hotel stay for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

9-Nt Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway...

Railbookers

Luxe, 12-Night Spain, France, Monaco &...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

• Best Hikes In The World
• Appalachian Trail
• European Hikes
• Nepal Hikes
• Patagonia Hikes
• See All Hikes
• Mount Kenya
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Mount Toubkal
• See All Mountains
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Packing Lists

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!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

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.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• World's Best

The Top 10 Tour Operators in 2020

Last year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, 2020, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that the honorees will inspire your trips to come — whenever they may be.

Discerning travelers know that the best tour operators in the world are like magicians. They can arrange meals at secret restaurants, private viewings in wildlife reserves, and after-hours visits to top museums. One day they might surprise you with a sundowner on a secluded beach, a helicopter ride to lunch, or a walking safari.

These are the kinds of trips and flourishes that would be difficult, if not impossible, to put together on your own, even with a meticulous personality and an abundance of free time. The best tour operators have the connections, experience, and know-how that are essential to planning a seamless journey. They know the most keen-eyed safari guides and how to get you expedited through the airport. Booking the best trattoria in Rome — as well as the most coveted table and a personal meeting with the chef — is all in a day’s work.

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 companies that made this year’s list are largely boutique operations. Some run just a handful of trips each year — like No. 3 Terra Incognita Ecotours, whose clients are passionate about wildlife and willing to go off the beaten path to destinations such as Borneo and Patagonia . Others focus on certain hobbies or interests. For instance, No. 6 DuVine organizes cycling trips for travelers who relish the yin-yang of exertion and indulgence. Still others have geographic concentrations, such as No. 2 Greaves India, which is known for its custom itineraries in India, Nepal, Tibet, and neighboring countries. No. 8 Classic Journeys earns raves for its walking trips.

Then there are companies that span the globe and almost any style of travel. Their clients may long to see Boston or Botswana, seek hard-charging adventure or a serious wellness retreat. Artisans of Leisure, Black Tomato , and its peers are able to tailor trips to almost any interest. They’re also skilled at planning celebratory and multigenerational trips, where the expectations are often sky-high.

If you want to guarantee a once-in-a-lifetime experience, these are the best tour operators to call, according to T+L readers. Find the full list below, and details on what makes each company so special.

1. Ker & Downey

Score: 99.10

More information: kerdowney.com

“Completely personalized, stellar guides, fabulous recommendations, unforgettable trips,” is how one T+L reader summed up the Ker & Downey experience. The company has been serving travelers for more than 50 years, and though it’s especially known for safaris, the advisors are adept at planning custom trips with a “wow” factor anywhere in the world. Little wonder that many of the readers who rated it so highly are repeat customers, especially for landmark celebrations.

2. Greaves Tours

Score: 98.96

More information: greavesindia.com

For more than 40 years, the Cambata family has been planning impeccable custom trips to destinations that require extensive planning — not only India, but Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka. “Excellent itineraries,” one T+L reader said. Past travelers also complimented Greaves’s enthusiastic guides and unflappable, knowledgeable drivers.

3. Terra Incognita Ecotours

Score: 98.92

More information: ecotours.com

Founder Gerard “Ged” Caddick has serious ecotourism cred, having led trips for the World Wildlife Fund, National Geographic Society, American Museum of Natural History, and National Audubon Society. His company only runs about half a dozen wildlife-focused tours each year, visiting a wide array of destinations, including Peru, Namibia, and Arctic Norway. Each trip is limited to 16 guests, and as one reader pointed out, Caddick often joins, too: “One of the perks of traveling with this company is the owner and his wife go on many of the tours themselves. You know absolutely everything will be taken care of.”

4. Jacada Travel

Score: 98.30

More information: jacadatravel.com

“They can handle the most complicated itinerary and find the most intriguing and delightful places to visit,” one T+L reader raved about this London-based group. The company started out planning trips to Brazil in 2008 and has since expanded to orchestrate private, once-in-a-lifetime journeys around the globe. Jacada staffers have experience living and working in the destinations they specialize in, so their knowledge is deep and personal.

5. Artisans of Leisure

Score: 98.26

More information: artisansofleisure.com

This company plans customized private journeys packed with five-star-hotel stays and insider experiences in dozens of countries. Trips are tailored to suit travelers’ interests, including food, photography, genealogy, gardens, adventure, and more. “The itineraries are always the perfect balance of famous highlights, off-the-beaten-track spots, and special behind-the-scenes experiences,” one World’s Best voter wrote. “They’re also exceptionally good with organizing family travel, and everyone from the grandparents to the grandchildren always has such a great time.”

6. DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.

Score: 98.02

More information: duvine.com

DuVine is all about travel on two wheels — though it does have some trips that combine its signature cycling with sailing on a private yacht. The local guides are pro cyclists, chefs, and winemakers, and though there are plenty of itineraries for advanced riders, they’re far from spartan training missions. “Absolutely amazing, over-the-top tours!” one T+L reader enthused.

7. Boundless Journeys

Score: 97.92

More information: boundlessjourneys.com

For more than 20 years, Boundless Journeys has been leading locally guided tours — capped at 16 travelers but often clocking in at eight or 10 — with a focus on the outdoors. It covers destinations from Vermont to Vietnam, and is especially known for walking, hiking, and trekking trips.

8. Classic Journeys

Score: 97.86

More information: classicjourneys.com

When the company began in 1995, it offered walking tours in three countries. Twenty-five years later, it has more than 100 cultural, walking, culinary, family, multisport, and river-cruising itineraries — both small-group and custom — on six continents. Classic Journeys specializes in taking new approaches to familiar destinations and was an early entrant into American travel to Cuba. “Classic Journeys made sure we didn’t miss some of the must-see sights,” one pleased voter wrote, “but they also gave us opportunities for some unique visits.”

9. Quasar Expeditions

Score: 97.54

More information: quasarex.com

Founded by an Ecuadoran couple in 1986, Quasar pioneered luxury cruising in the Galápagos Islands and expanded to land travel that includes the rest of Ecuador, Patagonia, and Peru. It’s still run by the same family, who ensure that no detail of their small-group trips goes overlooked. “The two naturalist guides for our Galápagos cruise were incredibly knowledgeable,” one reader reported. “Their love for their islands shined through every single activity.”

10. Black Tomato

Score: 97.44

More information: blacktomato.com

Launched in 2005 by a trio of travel-loving friends, Black Tomato caters to deep-pocketed clients looking for bespoke experiences that are edgy and luxurious. Think pairing dancing salsa in Santiago, Chile, with an Antarctic expedition, or being purposely “lost” in a remote destination in order to plot your way home — with an indulgent reward along the way, of course.

Related Articles

Top 5 Travel Companies In The world

Do you love travelling and it is your passion too?

Are you willing to experience the unlimited joy one gains on an adventurous trip? 

If your answers to all the above questions are positive, then we have the most interesting facts of the topmost 5 travelling companies in the world. 

In the present scenario, travelling has become a magnificent way to cherish your life. There are innumerable people who travel and go to

different adventurous places to relish the best phase of life. Travelling industry falls in the service sector and there are millions of people who

look for services provided by the companies who provide you with the best to be on your vacations.

1. Gray And Co

It is one of the topmost company in the travelling sector and provides the facilities to satisfy the needs of its customers for a very long time. They deal in the satisfaction of the expectations of the customers and provide the best to them.  From more than 20 years, they are in the travelling business and providing immaculate services for more than 20 years now.

They do not pre-plan the trip as per the company’s specifications but customize a wonderful trip as per the customers’ requirement. They not only provide with the best rates but also bring good accommodation and legitimate itinerary for their customers.  

2. Butterfield And Robinson Co

It’s been about five decades that Butterfield & Robinson is working in this field of travelling. They provide the travellers with an adventurous and authentic journey in any part of the world. One can experience the best travelling either by foot, boat or bike. They provide the travellers with an opportunity to enjoy each moment by giving them ample time to experience the culture, heritage and authenticity of the particular place, they are interested in.  

3. Artisans Of Leisure

The best private travel company, Artisans of Leisure was founded in 2003 by Ashley Isaacs Ganz. It is one of the Specialist luxury travel for many destinations in the world. It is ranked as one of the best tour operators in the world and also has been recommended by the New York Times. It focuses and works on various themes like family tours, art, architecture tour, International honeymoons, etc.  

4. Mountain Lodges Of Peru

Mountain Lodges of Peru is one of the best travel companies in the world, founded in 2006. It offers an adventure travel to Machu Picchu. Its main objective is to transform the inner self of the people to inspire them through their adventure travel. They create a marvellous travel experience for the travellers who love adventure and are passionate to discover the ancient and the beginning. 

5. Journeys International

Journeys international is one of the best travel company, which was established in 1978 and is located in the United States. It is one of the best travel guide known as a Chief Experience Officer. It provides its customers with the various offers and tours to many destinations of the world such as Algeria, Antarctica, Arctic, Argentina, Australia, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, etc.  

• Family Holidays

Recommended For You

Similar Stories

According to Mr. Graham E. Cooke, President and Founder, World Travel Awards, it is clear that the massive attention is being drawn towards the significance of travel and tourism industry. It is so because a positive growth in travel sector will be a blessing to re-build the macro-economic stability across Europe.

With airfare rising and hotel rooms going for exorbitant prices, conventional tourism is getting challenging by the hour.But what if you could travel and not spend a dime? What if you could even get paid?Check out 9 Ways To Travel The World For Free Or Even Get Paid To Do It!

These are comfort foods you go for in the middle of the night when you are so hungry or during the day when you too busy to rush to a nearby restaurant. There are so many amazing delicacies to choose from across the world but the ones below were among the best;

Most of the people who love travelling and are interested in exploring new things in their life, tend to plan some kind of travelling every now and then. Most of the travelers assume that they have seen everything and experienced most of the new elements while travelling. There are certain TV shows in the world that can break the beliefs and assumptions of all the travelers who claims that they have experienced everything.

Popular Stories

Sponsored stories.

• Enquiry Form

To City (Destination)

Travel Date

Travel Duration (In Days)

Travel With

Type of Trip

Total Budget (in INR)

Ticket Booked ?

Ticket Required?

Mode of Transport

Ticket Category

I will book

Date of Birth

Marital Status

Income (Per Month)

Nationality

Preferred Language

Total countries visited so far

Do you have a Visa ?

Do you have a Passport?

Preferred Time to Call

We have identified additional inquiries related to your tour. Please review them and let us know if there are any inquiries you would like us to remove.

1,00,00,000+

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• NEW COLOURS
• Classic Tech
• Classic Plus
• Classic Pro
• Classic Flight
• Military Backpack
• Underseat Bags
• Laptop Backpacks
• Gym and Work Backpacks
• Minimalist Backpack
• > Show All
• Classic Cross Body Bags
• Packing Cubes
• British Airways
• Backpack Size Guide
• > More Backpack Guides
• Carry On Luggage Size Guide
• > More Cabin Bag Guides
• Travel Gift Guide
• Digital Nomads Hub
• Travel News
• Destinations
• Product & Style
• Travel Light
• Packing Tips
• Packing Lists
• Air Travel Tips by Airlines
• Luggage Tips
• Pre-flight Checklist
• In-flight Checklist
• Layover Tips
• CABIN MILES
• Backpacks CLASSIC NEW COLOURS Classic Classic Tech Classic Plus Classic Pro Classic Flight ADVENTURE NEW COLOURS ADV ADV Pro ADV Dry MILITARY Military Backpack SIZE 28L 30L 32L 36L 42L 44L SHOP BY FUNCTION Cabin Bags Underseat Bags Laptop Backpacks Daypacks Gym and Work Backpacks Minimalist Backpack
• Shoulder Bags > Show All SHOULDER BAGS Sidekick Flipside Flapjack Classic Cross Body Bags
• Bum Bags > Show All BUM BAGS Hustle Hip Bags
• Accessories > Show All ACCESSORIES Rain Cover Packing Cubes Gift Cards
• Blogs Product Guides Backpack Size Guide > More Backpack Guides Carry On Luggage Size Guide > More Cabin Bag Guides Travel Gift Guide Our Journey Digital Nomads Hub Travel News Destinations Product & Style Cabinzero Travel Tips Travel Light Packing Tips Packing Lists Day Trips Air Travel Tips Air Travel Tips by Airlines Luggage Tips Pre-flight Checklist In-flight Checklist Layover Tips

45+ BEST TRAVEL AGENCY IN THE WORLD - BEST TOUR OPERATORS FOR YOUR UPCOMING VACATION

Before picking and assessing travel agencies and resort packages, you need to have some knowledge to find a dependable, high-quality, and fairly priced travel agent. Here are the Best Travel Agencies that have been chosen as the most distinguished and will be the best travel company for tourists looking for fascinating excursions.

45+ Best Travel Agency In The World

The big names.

• Expedia Travel Operator
• Kayak From Booking Holdings
• Booking.Com Hotel Booking
• Tripadvisor - Your Travel Companion

Other Must-Know Travel & Booking Platforms

• International Travel Network Travel Agency
• Makemytrip.Com Travel Agent
• Travelocity.Com - Only Travel Operator
• Orbitz Travel Services
• Bookit Travel Platform
• American Express Travel Company
• Cheaptickets.Com - Online Travel Service
• Onetravel.Com
• Vacation.Com Travel Agent
• Vip Traveler: Online Travel Suggestions
• Airfare.Com
• Skyauction.Com Travel Services
• Rail Europe

Hotel & Accommodation Booking

• Hotelplanner Tour Company
• Hotels.Com Hotel Booking

Tour Providers & Operators

• Global Work & Travel Company
• Apple Vacations Tour Provider
• Zicasso - Luxury Travel & Tour Company
• Tours4fun Online Tour Company
• Smartours For Reasonable Tour Operations
• Vacations To Go: Low-Cost Yet High-Quality Services
• Grand Circle Travel: Ship & River Cruising
• Executive Tour & Travel Agency
• Vacation Tour & Travel
• Liberty Travel Agent
• Audley Travel Tour Agency
• Fox World Travel
• Classic Journeys
• Black Tomato Travel Agency
• Tauck Tours & River Cruises

Adventure Travel

• Wilderness Travel
• Trek Travel
• Canyon Trips: Cheap Grand Canyon Tours

Luxury & Specialty Travel

• Hilton Grand Vacations Travel & Tour Network
• Hotwire Travel Company
• Trafalgar Travel Agency
• Intrepid Travel
• Cheapoair Travel Company
• Ymt Vacations: Low-Cost Guided Excursions

Best For Students

• People To People International Travel Organisation
• Outward Bound Travel Institution

Cruising Services

• Cruises.Com - Cruising Services
• Cruises-N-More: Low-Cost Cruising Service
• Vantage Travel Agency

EXPEDIA TRAVEL OPERATOR

Expedia is now one of the world's top 50 travel operator suppliers. The firm specializes in organising large-scale trips both at home and overseas to over 70 countries worldwide. When you come to Expedia, you will have many new adventures in Europe, America, and other places. Expedia has created a brand for itself, trusted by many to be chosen as a companion on every trip, with the mission of bringing uplifting emotions to each customer.

KAYAK FROM BOOKING HOLDINGS

Booking Holdings owns and operates Kayak, an American online travel agency and grocery search engine. KAYAK has been reshaping the travel sector since 2004. Kayak, which is available in over 30 countries and 18 languages, provides travellers with discounts on hotels, flights, and car rentals.

BOOKING.COM HOTEL BOOKING

Booking.com, founded in 1996 in Amsterdam, is a holiday travel agency managed by Booking Holdings, located in the United States. Booking.com serves clients in 43 languages and has over 28 million property bookings, including over 6.2 million registrations for houses, flats, and other unique properties. Furthermore, Booking.com provides a choice of low-cost air transportation services that are appropriate for your forthcoming vacation.

TRIPADVISOR - YOUR TRAVEL COMPANION

With 463 million monthly users, Tripadvisor is the world's largest travel site, giving clients international travel at incredible prices. Tripadvisor, the ultimate travel companion website, is available in 49 countries and 28 languages. TripAdvisor.com aggregates information from hundreds of websites to provide the most competitive hotel rates.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NETWORK TRAVEL AGENCY

Since its inception in 2004, the International Travel Network company has grown to become one of the world's best travel agencies. With over 850 agents and over 11 years of expertise in the US, Canada, and the UK, International Travel Network is always ready to supply consumers with international itineraries from the UK to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and the Middle East.

PRICELINE TRAVEL COMPANY

Priceline is a 1998 online travel tour company that seeks bargains on travel-related items such as airline tickets and hotel stays. Priceline is located in Norwalk, Connecticut, and is currently a subsidiary of Booking Holdings Group, the world's largest travel agency. Priceline offers lodging, domestic and international transportation, and customer assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

MAKEMYTRIP.COM TRAVEL AGENT

MakeMyTrip.com is a market leader in the travel and tourism sector. Hundreds of travel agents throughout the world have cooperative connections with the firm. This concierge service, which has 20 locations in India and two in the United States, tries to make travel less stressful. The holiday travel agency is expanding its business sectors to diversify.

TRAVELOCITY.COM - ONLY TRAVEL OPERATOR

Expedia Group owns Travelocity.com, an online travel provider. Currently, the organisation has several branches in Europe and Asia, offering a variety of high-quality locations and distinguished tours. Travelocity.com is still becoming one of the units trusted by many clients, thanks to a team of experienced professionals and exceptional customer care.

ORBITZ TRAVEL SERVICES

Orbitz provides a straightforward way for passengers to research and book travel services. Flights, hotels, auto rentals, cruises, and thrilling travel activities are among the services offered by Orbitz. When it comes to overseas travel, many local and international travellers choose this location since Orbitz meets all of their demands attentively and thoroughly.

BOOKIT TRAVEL PLATFORM

New Zealand owns and operates BookIt, a market-leading travel software system. In 2021, BookIt provided a big improvement to its platform and offered a slew of new capabilities, incremental software solutions, and integration choices, making commuting easier for clients. The organisation always has procedures in place for innovation, personnel training, and exceptional customer service.

AMERICAN EXPRESS TRAVEL COMPANY

American Express, which was founded in 1850, is widely regarded as one of Europe's most respected and high-quality travel companies. American Express, headquartered in New York, offers hotel services, flights, corporate travel, and other handy travel services. However, because American Express solely works as a sales agent for travel service providers, any difficulties caused by the carrier/accommodation will not be handled by American Express.

CHEAPTICKETS.COM - ONLINE TRAVEL SERVICE

Cheaptickets.com is the best travel company website, and it was established in 1986. CheapTickets is an online travel service provider specialising in the entertainment sector, including airline tickets, hotel and vacation rentals, rental vehicles, and other programs.

ONETRAVEL.COM 

OneTravel.com, which was founded in the 1990s, is a holiday travel agency website that provides flights, hotels, and vacation packages to popular places across the world. OneTravel.com has solidified its brand reputation, to always expand and polish the travel business to achieve new heights in the field of travel customer care and excellent services.

VACATION.COM TRAVEL AGENT

Vacation.com, works as a travel agent, offering vacation packages and travel assistance to customers. Customers from the United States and Canada can purchase tours at web Vacation.com. Vacation.com is regarded by travellers as one of the top firms in the tourism sector, owing to its beneficial contributions to the growth of the tourism industry through a variety of service models such as lodging, restaurants, and entertainment.

VIP TRAVELER: ONLINE TRAVEL SUGGESTIONS

Vip Traveler is an innovative and one-of-a-kind travel operator that specialises in online travel suggestions that mix technology and individual service. Vip Traveler aggressively learns its clients' travel styles, and actively seeks chances that they believe the target consumer group would enjoy and satisfies the needs in the best way possible. Today, Vip Traveler is regarded as a one-of-a-kind travel firm.

AIRFARE.COM

Airfare.com, founded in 1995, offers a bulk purchase method for airfare that allows consumers to save up to 70% off the price of plane tickets through airline discount consolidation. The travel tour companies are continually developing, offering consumers with the greatest services and assisting them in having the best travel experience possible.

SKYAUCTION.COM TRAVEL SERVICES

SkyAuction.com is a rapidly expanding travel service where you can purchase airline tickets, hotel stays, package vacations, excursions, cruises, and more. SkyAuction.com is a privately held firm situated in New York City that is led by seasoned experts with over 100 years of combined travel industry experience. SkyAuction promotes itself as a travel auction platform where it negotiates arrangements with airlines, hotels, and other businesses to ensure their consumers get the best discounts possible.

RAIL EUROPE

Rail Europe was created in New York in 1932 to promote French trains to North American passengers. It mostly caters to travellers from North America. The company Rail Europe consistently maintains that the client is at the heart of all business operations for which Rail Europe strives because the customer is a significant contributor to the development of the Rail Europe brand.

HOTELPLANNER TOUR COMPANY

HotelPlanner is a travel service centre founded in 2002 that is ranked among the top 50 tour companies in the world. The firm has established its APAC headquarters in Singapore and is quickly growing its worldwide staff of expert meeting planners. As a result, Hotel Planner provides over 100,000 worldwide hotel partners with pricing ranging from affordable to luxury, providing you with more options than ever before.

HOTELS.COM HOTEL BOOKING

Hotels.com was formed in 1991 and became a subsidiary of Expedia Inc. in 2002. It is now an online travel operator that specialises in assisting consumers in finding and booking rooms at hotels, apartments, and other types of lodging. The firm has 85 websites in 34 languages and advertises over 325,000 hotels in around 19,000 locations throughout the world. With a global network, Hotels.com's importance in the tourism sector is rising.

GLOBAL WORK & TRAVEL COMPANY

Global Work & Travel was founded in Australia in 2008, and its headquarters are in Australia, with agency offices in the United Kingdom, Canada, and many other European nations. Global Work & Travel is widely regarded as one of the largest and most trustworthy travel companies in the world, with over 27 destinations on all seven continents.

With so many tour packages and varied experience offerings available around the country, you can pick a place that fits your budget and the purpose of your vacation. Furthermore, Global Work & Trip offers travellers a global emergency line that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can be confident in your travel safety.

APPLE VACATIONS TOUR PROVIDER

Apple Vacations, founded in 1969, is one of the major providers of vacation travel services in the United States. With a lengthy history of operation, the corporation has consistently maintained its leadership position in the area and abroad. Every year, Apple Vacations arranges hundreds of domestic and international tours in a variety of formats, offering a choice of hotel amenities and affordable lodging for travellers all over the world.

ZICASSO - LUXURY TRAVEL & TOUR COMPANY

Zicasso is a luxury travel service and tour company, with exceptional skill in catering to customers' fantasies and luxury trips. Zicasso is a one-of-a-kind travel website that connects consumers with three specifically selected travel professionals to build a one-of-a-kind itinerary. Zicasso's travel specialist partners are regarded as some of the best in the business.

TOURS4FUN ONLINE TOUR COMPANY

Tours4fun is an online tour company service that provides consumers with a diverse range of tours, holiday packages, hotels, cruises, and activities at competitive costs. Tours4fun is devoted to verifying thousands of prices every day to ensure that when you book with them, you are paying exceptionally low rates. You will discover numerous new locations from Asia to Europe and even Africa with over 2500 destinations globally.

SMARTOURS FOR REASONABLE TOUR OPERATIONS

smarTours provides a variety of over 50 cheap trips to globally listed places online in locations all over the world. smarTours is a firm that specialises in the operation of local and worldwide tours, as well as the ownership of other travel services that clients, agents, and partners rely on. Travellers can pick from five distinct cruise sites as well as over 50 tour venues.

VACATIONS TO GO: LOW-COST YET HIGH-QUALITY SERVICES

Vacations To Go has supplied more than eight million visitors with the experience of a dream vacation for a fraction of the average expense since its inception in 1984. This is a company specialising in offering international travellers low-cost yet high-quality lodging, transportation, and sightseeing services.

GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL: SHIP & RIVER CRUISING

Grand Circle Travel, which was established in 1958, is rapidly strengthening its place in the global travel market. Grand Circle Travel has built itself as an industry leader in small ship and river cruising, allowing consumers to travel by ship, explore by land, or do a little of both on worldwide destinations.

EXECUTIVE TOUR & TRAVEL AGENCY

Executive Tour & Travel, based in Daytona Beach, has been in the travel agency industry since 1989. Executive Tour and Travel provides travel and resort packages to a wide range of places. Executive Tour & Travel, a full-service vacation agency, specialises in travel packages to and from Florida, as well as many other popular locations such as the Bahamas and Las Vegas.

VACATION TOUR & TRAVEL

Vacation Tour & Travel has exclusive deals with prominent resort resorts in various places and chains across the world. Vacation Tours & Travels was founded and began operations in 2006, and it has been achieving its strategic objectives ever since. Vacation Tour & Travel continually maintains that consumers are at the core of all business operations that Vacation Tour & Travel aspires to because customers are a significant contributor to the Vacation Tour & Travel brand's development.

LIBERTY TRAVEL AGENT

Liberty Travel is a travel service based at 5 Paragon Drive in Montvale, New Jersey. Liberty Travel assists customers in planning their vacations down to the last detail by finding places, brainstorming package holiday ideas, and booking accommodation and resort services in advance.

AUDLEY TRAVEL TOUR AGENCY

Audley Travel is a travel agency based in the United Kingdom, with headquarters in Witney, Oxfordshire, and offices in London, Boston, and Toronto. Audley Travel aspires to be a travel companion with passengers on all of their journeys and to produce excellent values. The tours listed on the Audley Travel website are designed to provide consumers with the most thorough picture of what to anticipate in fantastic locations.

FOX WORLD TRAVEL

Fox World Travel, a privately held company since 1960, allows tourists to search through a variety of vacation alternatives and packages, including Disney trips. Travel, at Fox World Travel, is not just a trip of discovery, but also a shared adventure that demonstrates the many impressions of each place.

CLASSIC JOURNEYS

From six locations in three countries in the first year, Classic Journeys currently explore more than 100 countries in 50 countries across seven continents and offer tourists a varied selection of excursions. Intriguing Classic Journeys was founded with great excitement by Edward Piegza, the company's founder, as a choice of distinction and luxury.

BLACK TOMATO TRAVEL AGENCY

The travel agency Black tomato has constantly been elevating new elements of the travel business with its original, autonomous approach since it was founded in the 2000s. Tom Marchant, James Merrett, and Matt Smith decided to launch a firm based on the intriguing notion of managing tourism in a completely different way than was currently available in the market, and so the name Black tomato was born.

TAUCK TOURS & RIVER CRUISES

Tauck, founded in 1925 by Tauck's father, is a travel business that specialises in guided tours and river cruises. Tauck has been serving hundreds of worldwide clients and creating partnerships with hundreds of partners in nations across the world with a team of competent, motivated, and responsible employees.

WILDERNESS TRAVEL

Wilderness Travel, founded in 1978, is a pioneer in the Adventure Travel sector, committed to offering consumers dynamic and creative travel experiences. Since then, Wilderness Travel has become known for its excellent itineraries and knowledgeable trip leaders.

TREK TRAVEL

Trek Travel, with a staff of professionals and experienced skill trainers, can assist you in scheduling and building a safe trekking journey. Trek Travel tours feature the use of award-winning Trek bikes, including e-bikes, allowing you to take the finest routes with the best equipment.

Above are reputable and experienced 50+ Best Travel Agency that you should select. With Cabinzero's recommendations, you ought to be able to locate a suitable tour company on your next holiday.

CANYON TRIPS: CHEAP GRAND CANYON TOURS

Canyon Trips was formed as a Las Vegas owned and run tour business that specialises in providing cheap Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas, with over 20 years of expertise in the tourism industry. Canyon Tours is dedicated to offering the highest quality service to consumers, which sets it apart from the competition. Travellers can also purchase VIP excursions, helicopter flights, rafting adventures, and other activities through the company's most modern services.

HILTON GRAND VACATIONS TRAVEL & TOUR NETWORK

Hilton Grand Vacations operates a large-scale business system, and a closed network, and offers a wide range of products and services. The corporation has many different types of businesses that require investment funds.

Hilton Grand Vacations, one of the world's most well-known travel tour companies, provides accommodations on six continents via more than 550 hotel and resort sites. Hilton Grand Vacations, with the philosophy of putting customers' interests first, provides the best services at reasonable pricing to a diverse spectrum of consumers.

HOTWIRE TRAVEL COMPANY

Hotwire is the best travel company that sells plane tickets, hotel rooms, auto rentals, and vacation packages. Hotwire is a market leader in delivering products and services such as Visa, tourist paired with flight tickets, and hotel and vehicle rental services at low costs.

TRAFALGAR TRAVEL AGENCY

With over 100 years of expertise, the Trafalgar company was formed and placed into action. Trafalgar has developed steadily over the years, offering more than 300 sites in more than 70 countries, and Trafalgar tours have been trusted by 5 million tourists.

INTREPID TRAVEL

Intrepid Travel was formed over 30 years ago by two friends who think that travel can benefit both visitors and the places they visit. Intrepid Travel has always been devoted to being there for the visitors and communities we visit in each of our seven continents.

CHEAPOAIR TRAVEL COMPANY

CheapOair is the best travel company created in 2005 that offers exceptional inexpensive flights and last-minute ticket deals for budget travellers looking to tour the world at a lower cost.

You can book rooms online, via mobile applications for iOS and Android, by phone, or by live chat with our customer support professionals, who are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. CheapOair lets you locate plane tickets to over 600 airlines, one million hotels, and 100 car rental businesses, giving you a wide range of options at low costs.

YMT VACATIONS: LOW-COST GUIDED EXCURSIONS

YMT Vacations has specialised in offering low-cost guided excursions for adult travellers since 1967. YMT Vacations has over 1.5 million pleased customers and is part of the Travelopia Group, the world's biggest collection of speciality travel businesses. YMT Vacations, headquartered in Bothell, was founded in 1967 as Your Man Tours to make Hawaii accessible to everybody.

PEOPLE TO PEOPLE INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL ORGANISATION

People to People International was the first student travel organisation to visit all seven continents in 2005, and it is one of several respected travel firms that specialise in student travel. People to People International, rated as one of the world's premier travel agencies, provides international level service quality with travel programs for the young population across the continent.

OUTWARD BOUND TRAVEL INSTITUTION

Outward bound is the most prominent, quality, and committed travel business, with over 60 years of expertise in planning student trips and worldwide outdoor activities. Outward Bound is a nonprofit educational institution created by educator Kurt Hahn that serves individuals of all ages. The company's website has a search function that allows visitors to quickly select the best vacation for them.

CRUISES.COM - CRUISING SERVICES

Cruises.com is the flagship travel brand of World Travel Holdings (WTH), which was created in 2005 by Brad and Jeff Tolkin. Cruises are a tourism firm that specialises in offering cruise services around Europe. For almost two decades, this has been a popular travel brand in the United States. The organisation can put clients in touch with over 25 different cruise lines that go all over the world.

CRUISES-N-MORE: LOW-COST CRUISING SERVICE

Cruises-n-More is a family owned and operated company, founded in 1998 by Pat Neidhardt. Cruises-N-More provides low-cost cruises for all sorts of sailings, including luxury cruises and river cruises. This is a small firm that is extremely adaptable to meet the demands of its consumers in a timely and professional manner.

VANTAGE TRAVEL AGENCY

Vantage began operations in 1983 with travel to Australia and New Zealand. Vantage is the best travel agency that offers cruises to the world's continents, ranging from economical to luxury. If you don't like yachts, Vantage offers excursions all around the world. Furthermore, Vantage assists you in booking flights, lodging, meals, and itineraries, allowing you to make the most of your vacation.

Find Your Perfect Travel Match: Share Your Tips and Explore Further!

In the vast world of travel, choosing the right travel agency can be the difference between a dream vacation and a logistical nightmare. While we’ve explored some of the biggest names, the perfect travel agency for you might be a smaller, boutique outfit that specialises in your particular travel niche.  Do your research, consider your needs, and weigh the options carefully.

So, what are your thoughts? What’s your go-to travel agency, or what factors do you consider most important when choosing one? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below  – we love to hear from our readers. And if you found this article helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with your fellow adventurers.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

You may also like

• Best overall
• Best for expensive trips
• Best for exotic trips
• Best for annual plans

How we reviewed travel insurance for seniors

Best travel insurance for seniors of may 2024.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Reaching your golden years doesn't mean your adventures have to end. In fact, in this stage of life, you'll hopefully have more time and resources to travel. But as a senior citizen, you'll want to ensure you have travel insurance that covers any health-related issues arise while you travel.

Our top picks for the best senior travel insurance

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for expensive trips: John Hancock Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic trips: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best for annual plans: Travel Guard

How we rate the best senior travel insurance companies »

Compare travel insurance for seniors

Your health gets more unpredictable as you age, which makes travel insurance more important for seniors. Unfortunately, it's also more expensive. The best travel insurance for seniors won't have too steep of a price hike compared to rates for younger travelers. It will have high coverage limits for emergency medical coverage, trip cancellations, and and emergency medical evacuation. It's also important that your travel insurance offers pre-existing condition waivers , ideally at no extra cost to the traveler. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance coverage for seniors in 2024.

Best overall: Allianz

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good option for frequent travelers thanks to its annual multi-trip policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Doesn't increase premium for trips longer than 30 days, meaning it could be one of the more affordable options for a long trip
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans include free coverage for children 17 and under
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Concierge included with some plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Coverage for medical emergency is lower than some competitors' policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Plans don't include coverage contact sports and high-altitude activities
• Single and multi-trip plans available
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage starting at up to $10,000 (higher limits with more expensive plans)
• Preexisting medical condition coverage available with some plans

Allianz Travel Insurance is one of the most widely recognized names in travel insurance, and it stands out as one of the top travel insurance providers for seniors. It offers a wide range of policies covering medical treatments overseas and emergency medical transport.

Allianz also provides options for varying trip lengths. Its annual multi-trip policies , for example, cover any trip you make during your policy period, even if they aren't yet planned, making it an excellent option for seniors who vacation multiple times per year.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for expensive trips: John Hancock

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 3 travel insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason rider available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable travel insurance premiums
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews of claims process are mixed
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers may not get specialty coverage for sports equipment and other high value items
• Trip cancellation for 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000 per person
• Medical evacuation coverage of up to $1,000,000

John Hancock Travel Insurance plans for seniors offer some of the best coverage available. It provides generous maximum benefit amounts while still offering affordable prices.

Each plan includes coverages like trip cancellation, emergency accident, and emergency medical, with the option to add benefits like CFAR (cancel for any reason) . Plus, getting a free online quote is a quick and straightforward process.

Read our John Hancock Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

World Nomads Travel Insurance is a great choice for active senior citizens under 70 who want comprehensive travel insurance. The key difference between World Nomads and many other providers is that it covers 200+ adventurous activities like scuba diving, mountain biking, surfing, skiing, and even bungee jumping. In addition, World Nomads' trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage includes COVID-19-related issues. Many other insurers are excluding that type of coverage now.

For adventurous senior citizens over the age of 70 years, World Nomads suggests working with its partner, TripAssure .

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard  offers comprehensive insurance plans for shorter and longer trips. One of its more unique offerings is its Travel Guard Annual Plan.

This annual travel insurance comes with standard coverage benefits (trip delay, baggage loss, etc.) and substantial coverage amounts, which is important for seniors who travel multiple times per year. Travel Guard also offers a preexisting medical condition waiver, meaning those with certain medical issues can still gain coverage.

Read our AIG Travel Guard Insurance review here.

Understanding travel insurance for seniors

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what travel insurance is and why it's particularly important for senior travelers. The best travel insurance offers financial protection against unexpected events affecting your trip, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Types of coverage

• Medical Coverage: Ensures your medical expenses are covered in case of illness or injury.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage: Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen events.
• Baggage Coverage: Covers loss, damage, or theft of personal items during your trip.

Benefits of travel insurance for seniors

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you're covered in case of emergencies can make your travel stress-free.
• Financial Protection: Shields you from potentially overwhelming medical costs and trip cancellations fees.
• Assistance Services: Many plans offer 24/7 assistance services, providing help whenever and wherever you need it.

Making the most of your plan

After choosing a plan, it's crucial to understand your policy fully and know what services are available to you in case of an emergency.

Understanding your policy

• Read the fine print and understand the claims process to avoid surprises.

Emergency assistance services

• Familiarize yourself with the emergency assistance services offered by your plan and keep all necessary contact information handy.

How to pick senior travel insurance

It's wise to compare several different travel insurance policies for the best coverage and pricing, as premiums vary widely between insurers and depend on factors like your age and travel destination.

That said, some of the more essential coverages to look for if you're a senior citizen include:

• Travel medical coverage - This coverage will pay for your medical bills outside the US.
• Medical evacuation coverage - If you're injured or become sick while traveling, this coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if your condition necessitates it.
• Preexisting conditions - Coverage for known health conditions. You'll need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time period from when you book your trip to qualify for a preexisting condition waiver .
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) - The name says it all! It'll cost extra and you'll need to purchase insurance early, but it's the most comprehensive trip cancellation coverage you can get. Note that CFAR insurance usually only covers up to 75% of your trip fees.
• Trip cancellation insurance - This coverage provides reimbursement for your prepaid and nonrefundable costs if you cannot make your trip due to an unforeseen event.
• Baggage delay insurance - This coverage will reimburse you for essentials like toiletries and clothes if your bags are delayed.
• Lost luggage insurance - This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount if your bags get lost en route.

Of these, the most critical to note are whether or not your policy covers preexisting conditions and the limits for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation.

Some insurance companies offer a waiver that will cover preexisting conditions. You'll have to follow the requirements for adding a waiver to your policy, like insuring the entire cost of your trip. Or purchase the policy within a specific time after making your first trip deposit payments.

You'll also want to find a policy with high maximum limits for travel medical and emergency medical evacuation coverage. These types of expenses can be substantial, so you want to have appropriate coverage.

When comparing senior travel insurance options, we looked at the following factors to evaluate each travel insurance provider:

• Coverage limits: We looked at each travel insurance company's coverage amounts for benefits like medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
• Flexibility: We looked at how customizable a policy is, so you can choose what your travel insurance policy covers .
• Coverage for preexisting conditions: Preexisting conditions are one of the more critical factors for travel insurance for senior citizens, so we looked at travel insurance companies that offer the best coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Price: We compared travel insurance providers offering reasonable basic and comprehensive coverage rates.
• Benefits geared towards seniors: We compared travel insurance companies that offer solid coverage for senior citizens, like medical evacuation, COVID-19 coverage, and trip cancellation.

You can read more about our insurance rating methodology here.

Seniors should look for travel insurance policies that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including for preexisting conditions and emergency medical evacuation. They should also consider policies with higher coverage limits to ensure adequate protection. Additionally, seniors should seek travel insurance plans that provide 24/7 assistance services, as well as coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and baggage protection.

The cost of senior travel insurance coverage can vary depending on your age, overall health, state of residence, travel destination, and length of your trip. However, assuming all other factors are the same, you'll pay more for travel insurance at 70 than at 30.

All travel insurance companies, except World Nomads, included in this guide offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as long as you buy your policy within the qualifying period from when you placed your trip deposit.

Allianz is the best travel insurance for seniors due to its wide array of medical coverages and emergency medical transport. Allianz also offers multi-trip insurance policies , which could make sense for seniors who travel frequently.

In some instances, travel insurance companies will have age eligibility restrictions, often only insuring people 80 years old and younger.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

• Main content

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

Vote for your favorite hot air balloon ride!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Hot air balloons take the act of travel to new heights, offering a fresh perspective while floating in the sky in a woven wicker basket. There’s no other experience quite like it, and these 20 companies have been nominated by an expert panel for offering the best hot air balloon rides in the United States. Which hot air balloon company would you most like to float into the air with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

Hot air balloons take the act of travel to new heights, offering a fresh perspective while floating in the sky in a woven wicker basket. There’s no other experience quite like it, and these 20 companies have been...   Read More

Best Hot Air Balloon Ride Nominees

Photo courtesy of Above It All Balloons

Above It All Balloon Company

Aspen, Colorado

Above It All Balloon Company provides unforgettable hot air balloon experiences around the Aspen area. Flights always begin at sunrise and last one hour, with both shared and private trips available. Each flight takes passengers over beautiful Brush Creek Valley and ends with a champagne toast.

Photo courtesy of Visit Colorado Springs

Adventures Out West

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Adventures Out West offers hot air balloon rides high above Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak. Flights leave at sunrise in baskets with a capacity of two people to 10 people. No two flights are ever the same, but guests can expect to spend at least 45 minutes in the air. 

Photo courtesy of Black Hills Balloons

Black Hills Balloons

Custer, South Dakota

Black Hills Balloons has been in business for more than 35 years, offering flights over the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. While floating over this unique landscape, passengers might spot whitetail deer amid the ponderosa pine forests and granite spires of Custer State Park.

Photo courtesy of California Dreamin' Balloon Adventures

California Dreamin' Balloon Adventures

Temecula, California

California Dreamin’ Balloon Adventures takes guests on sunrise flights over the vineyards of Temecula Valley wine country. The experience includes an hour in the air, post-flight champagne mimosas, and a voucher for a two-for-one tasting at a nearby winery.

Photo courtesy of Firebird balloons

Firebird Balloons

Phoenix, Arizona

Climb into the basket of a balloon with Firebird Balloons to experience Arizona’s spectacular Sonoran Desert scenery from above. Visitors can choose from morning or evening flights, with about an hour of time in the air.

Photo courtesy of Grand Adventure Balloon Tours

Grand Adventure Balloon Tours

Winter Park, Colorado

Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park offers year-round flights above spectacular Colorado scenery. Views include the Continental Divide and Rocky Mountain National Park, with the chance to fly low and spot local wildlife or splash and dash in a nearby pond or river.

Photo courtesy of Hot Air Expeditions

Hot Air Expeditions

Hot Air Expeditions is a family-owned and -operated company, serving Tucson and Phoenix for over 30 years. Soar over the Sonoran Desert, with the chance to spot wildlife and see landmarks in the distance, before enjoying a continental breakfast and champagne.

Photo courtesy of GoodLifeStudio / E+ Getty Images

Idaho Balloon Adventures

Eagle, Idaho

Idaho Balloon Adventures has been hosting thrilling excursions since the 1970s, with rides that elevate passengers higher than a seven-story building. Flights allow you to gaze in awe at stunning mountain peaks and forests, with the chance to spot wildlife. Upon landing, enjoy a complimentary champagne reception.

Photo courtesy of Lake Tahoe Balloons

Lake Tahoe Balloons

South Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe Balloons takes guests on a journey high above the largest alpine lake in North America for unobstructed aerial views of its cobalt blue waters. It’s also the only balloon company in the world that launches and lands from the deck of a boat.

Photo courtesy of Gargolas / E+ Getty Images

Lancaster Balloon Rides

Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania

Passengers embarking on a journey with Lancaster Balloon Rides enjoy a unique adventure that varies with each flight. During the one-hour experience, you'll see the Amish countryside, local wildlife, and the serene Schuylkill River from a new perspective. Choose from launch sites in Bird-in-Hand, Glenmoore, or New Hope.

Photo courtesy of NapaValleyAloft

Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides

Yountville, California

Napa Valley Aloft has been flying the skies of Napa Valley since 1978. Their baskets are smaller than those offered by competitors, which gives passengers better views and a more personalized experience as they float above the rolling vineyards.

Photo courtesy of Anton_Petrus / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Napa Valley Balloons

Napa, California

There’s no better way to see the beauty of California wine country than from the sky. Napa Valley Balloons elevates visits to Napa Valley with one-hour scenic flights over the rolling vineyards, followed by a sparkling wine toast.

Photo courtesy of iStock / Lauren Haslett

Rainbow Ryders

Albuquerque, New Mexico

As home to the International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque is one of the world’s most popular spots for hot air ballooning. Rainbow Ryders offers daily flights throughout the year, which have you floating above the high desert landscape of New Mexico, as well as the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. The company is also the official hot air balloon ride operator at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Photo courtesy of David Martin

Red Rock Balloons

Sedona, Arizona

Red Rock Balloons begins its hot air balloon tours at sunrise from Sedona, Arizona. Passengers will watch the balloon inflate at daybreak and be airborne as the sun rises. After a one-hour flight over red rock country, guests will be greeted by a celebratory toast.

Photo courtesy of Seattle Ballooning

Seattle Ballooning

Seattle and Walla Walla, Washington

On a journey with Seattle Ballooning, passengers soar over the picturesque landscapes of Washington. The flights, which take off at sunrise or sunset, feature breathtaking views of the Seattle area or Walla Walla Valley. The ride typically lasts around an hour, culminating in a traditional champagne toast to celebrate the magnificent voyage.

Photo courtesy of Theresa Hayden

Sky Riders Balloon Team

Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

The Sky Riders Balloon Team takes passengers on hot air balloon rides over the rolling hills and forests of scenic Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Depending on the winds, it’s sometimes possible to see the Philadelphia skyline in the distance.

Photo courtesy of Vegas Balloon Rides

Vegas Balloon Rides

Las Vegas, Nevada

Enjoy a memorable hot air balloon flight with Vegas Balloon Rides. They provide a Champagne Sunrise Flight for an hour's aerial journey above Las Vegas. Passengers are met as they land and offered a glass of champagne and a commemorative certificate.

Photo courtesy of Greg Meland // Getty Images

World Balloon

Both group and private champagne hot air balloon flights are available from World Balloon in Albuquerque, New Mexico. One-hour flights for passengers to watch the sunrise over the city and surrounding landscape are available year-round.

Photo courtesy of iStock / Different_Brian

Wyoming Balloon Company

Jackson, Wyoming

Wyoming Balloon Company facilitates hot air balloon rides from Jackson Hole, allowing guests to experience the splendor of the Cowboy State from above. Flights last about an hour with unobstructed views of the majestic Teton Range.

Photo courtesy of X-Treme-Lee Fun Balloon Adventures

X-Treme-Lee Fun Balloon Adventures

Gallup, New Mexico

X-Treme-Lee Fun Balloon Adventures provides a beautiful sunrise hot air balloon tour near Gallup, New Mexico. Passengers enjoy views of scenic Red Rock Park with its canyons and spires on a one-hour journey.

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

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

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 .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

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.

Choosing the Best Cell Phone Company for Your International Adventures

Last Updated on April 29, 2024

When jet-setting across the globe, staying connected is crucial. Whether you’re uploading your latest travel pics or checking maps for the nearest café, the right cell phone company can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through selecting the best service provider based on coverage, cost, customer service, and roaming charges, ensuring your international escapades are seamless.

Why Coverage Matters Most

The Breadth of Service When considering a cell phone company for your travels, first and foremost, evaluate their global coverage. The last thing you want is spotty service as you trek through the Andes or sail the Greek islands. Research which companies provide extensive coverage in your target destinations. Some providers have partnerships with local carriers around the world, ensuring better connectivity. Additionally, check for the availability of satellite connectivity options that some providers might offer, ideal for adventurers heading to regions where traditional mobile service is unreliable.

Impact on Your Travel Experience Coverage isn’t just about making calls—it affects your ability to use maps , search for attractions, and even summon emergency services. A company that offers widespread global coverage can significantly enhance your travel experience by keeping you connected and safe. Enhanced coverage can also provide faster internet speeds, reducing the frustration of slow-loading maps or travel guides, crucial when you’re trying to navigate unfamiliar locations.

Cost Considerations

When planning for international travel, budgeting for communication costs is as important as planning for flights and accommodations. This section explains how to navigate the complex landscape of roaming charges and highlights strategies to find the most cost-effective solutions.

Understanding Roaming Charges Cost is a major factor when traveling abroad. Roaming charges can be exorbitant, so it’s crucial to understand how different companies structure these fees. Look for plans specifically designed for travelers, which might offer flat rates for data usage or reduced charges for calls and texts. Some cell phone companies also offer roaming packages that can be activated on the day you travel, which might include a set amount of data and calling minutes, making it easier to manage costs and avoid unexpected charges.

Finding the Best Deals Don’t just settle for the first plan you find. Compare costs among leading cell phone companies and consider prepaid international SIM cards as a budget-friendly alternative. These can often be a more economical choice, especially for longer trips or if you’re visiting multiple countries. Additionally, look into joining international calling plans that some cell phone companies provide, which could offer better rates and features tailored to frequent international travelers. This proactive approach can save substantial money, allowing you to spend more on your travels rather than on connectivity issues.

Prioritizing Customer Service

Effective customer service is crucial when you’re dealing with cell phone companies, especially for travelers who might encounter issues while abroad. This section focuses on the importance of having reliable and accessible support, and how it can significantly enhance your travel experience by providing peace of mind.

Accessibility and Support Abroad Imagine losing your phone in a foreign country or facing technical issues. You’ll want a provider with a robust customer service system that’s accessible internationally. Check if they offer 24/7 support and in multiple languages. Many top cell phone companies now utilize social media and chatbots to provide instant assistance, ensuring help is just a message away, no matter where you are in the world.

Real-World Assistance Good customer service also includes helping travelers understand their plans and manage their accounts remotely. The ability to adjust your plan on-the-go or troubleshoot issues without delay can make a significant difference, especially when you’re in different time zones. Some companies also offer dedicated travel assistance teams that can guide you through setting up international services or dealing with travel-specific challenges like lost or stolen phones.

Comparing International Plans

Choosing the right international plan requires a thoughtful approach as it must align with your travel habits and destinations. This section explains how to tailor plans to individual needs and utilize comparison tools to make informed decisions about which cell phone company to choose.

Tailoring Plans to Your Needs Each traveler’s needs are unique, so find a cell phone company that offers customizable international plans. Whether you need more data or fewer calls, there should be flexibility to adapt your plan to your travel style. Some providers also offer modular plans where you can pick and choose features like international texting or data packs, allowing for a more personalized approach that matches your specific travel itinerary.

Tools for Comparison Use online comparison tools to evaluate different international plans. These can help you visually breakdown what each company offers and at what cost, making it easier to decide which is best suited for your travel needs. Websites like WhistleOut or Wirefly offer detailed comparisons and user reviews, providing a comprehensive overview of plans from various cell phone companies, helping you pinpoint which offers the best value and coverage for your adventures abroad.

Choosing the right cell phone company for international travel involves careful consideration of coverage, cost, customer service, and the specifics of roaming charges. By prioritizing these factors and comparing available plans, you can ensure seamless connectivity on your adventures abroad, enhancing both your safety and enjoyment. Remember, the best choice is one that aligns closely with your travel habits and destination needs. Keep exploring, stay connected, and travel smart!

Related posts:

• 5 Days in Florida: Cheapest Way to Travel the State
• Polaroid of the week: Was Napoleon a gelato lover, too?
• The Top Five Books That Inspired Me To Travel
• Conquer Your Travel Dreams Without Debt Dragging You Down