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The 26 Best Cancun Tours & Excursions

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From idyllic beaches and Mayan ruins to abundant coral reefs, there are endless reasons why you should book a few Cancun tours during your Mexico vacation.

Signing up for a private or small group tour is the best way to maximize your time during a visit to the Yucatan Peninsula.

In fact, there are so many tour options that choosing the right one can sometimes seem a little overwhelming. Don’t worry!

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing private sail or an exhilarating zip line and ATV excursion , the best excursions in Cancun are right at your fingertips.

Read on to learn how you can enjoy the area’s most popular sites and attractions by booking the top excursions in Cancun.

Cancun Tours: Top Picks

There are dozens of reputable tour companies and private guides throughout Yucatan, many of which are based in Cancun.

To make it easier for you to find the tours that will fit your vacation needs the most, check out the top picks below.

Mayan Ruins Tours

If there’s one activity that is an absolute must-do when in Cancun, it’s exploring the nearby Mayan ruins.

There are numerous ruins that are easily accessible from Cancun including El Rey, San Miguelito, and Yamil Lu’um.

Some ruins can even be reached by boat including El Meco and Isla Mujeres. Some of the most well-known ruins including Chichen Itza and the Tulum Archaeological Site can be seen on a half-day or full-day tour.

Read below to learn about which Mayan ruins adventure is the right one for your Cancun vacation!

1. Chichen Itza

5⭐ 10,908 Reviews

Visit three of the most popular attractions in one day on this 12-hour adventure ! Including hotel pick-up from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Riviera Maya, you’ll experience one of the best Cancun tours to Chichen Itza!

Unlock a treasure trove of history including Mayan archeological sites, 16th-century towns, and tranquil freshwater cenotes.

Your first stop will be one of the natural wonders of the world, Chichen Itza, followed by the colorful town of Valladolid.

After a day of exploring, you’ll take a refreshing swim in Saamal, and enjoy a delicious buffet meal.

You’ll have plenty of time to do souvenir shopping , take photos, and explore on foot.

Incredible tour Great experience! Safe experience! Pastor was extremely knowledgeable about the archeological site Chichen Itza ! Would highly recommend this tour! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mike_W, Feb 2023

5⭐ 2,712 Reviews

If outdoor adventure is what you crave, then this tour is for you! On this eight-hour tour , you will swim in coral reefs, learn about ancient Mayan history, and take in the natural beauty of the beautiful Yucatan Peninsula.

The tour ends with an exhilarating trek through a limestone cave followed by a jungle walk and buffet lunch.

The best part is that this tour includes entrance fees and door-to-door transport from most hotels in Cancun and playa del Carmen .

Best Tour in Cancun Emanuel and Jose gave us one of the best experience in Cancun. It was one of the most fun tour I’ve ever taken. It was a great combination of water activities and historical information. Amazing! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amir_G, Feb 2023

3. Cobá (Tulum, Cobá, cenote & Playa del Carmen)

4.5⭐ 875 Reviews

This tour is for history buffs! You’ll learn all about ancient Mayan ruins throughout Quintana Roo on this full-day tour from Cancun .

You’ll visit two archaeological sites and swim in Cobá , a refreshing secret cenote. Before heading back to Cancun, you’ll savor a delicious Mexican buffet lunch and a walk through the lively streets of Playa del Carmen.

The tour also includes a knowledgeable guide and round transportation from the meeting points.

Best things to do Cancun Was taken to one of the most beautiful places to visit in Cancun, Tulum beautiful beach, Mayan ruins and a great history lesson followed by a swim in an amazing Cenote. The tour guide Esther was the best made the trip fun yet educational teaching us the history of the Mayans. Would definitely recommend this trip with #amigotours. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Manuel_C, Nov 2022

Eco and wildlife tours in Cancun

The Yucatan Peninsula is widely known for its focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility both on land and sea.

In fact, they have some of the cleanest beaches in the world and have won the highest number of Blue Flag awards for meeting sustainability standards.

If wildlife is what you seek, Cancun is a prime place to search for and view it. There are endless parks, lush jungles, mangrove forests, and warm Caribbean waters full of unique animals and marine life.

From adventure eco-parks to boat tours and jungle treks, you’ll be sure to make plenty of memories in the great outdoors in Cancun.

Read below to learn about some of the top eco and wildlife excursions in Cancun.

4. Swimming with whale sharks in Cancun (Small-group whale sharks group)

4.5⭐ 589 Reviews

Fulfill your dream of swimming with the world’s largest fish on this full-day group tour ! Snorkel with Mexican whale sharks off the Yucatan Coast from Playa del Carmen.

Alongside an expert guide, you’ll glide along with these majestic creatures while looking for dolphins , manta rays, and sea turtles.

To end the day, you’ll enjoy lunch on the boat off the coast of Isla Mujeres with views of Playa Norte, the most beautiful beach in the world.

Complimentary pickup and drop off from most Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, and Tulum hotels are included.

Once in a lifetime This trip was amazing and the whale sharks did not disappoint. They are so big and carefree, our tour guide and captain were amazing! I highly recommend – we also paid for the picture package and I am so glad I did they got all of our memories on file for us without me having to worry about it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Miguel_O, Sep 2022

5. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (Sian Ka’an and Muyil archaeological site tour)

5⭐ 430 Reviews

This experience is one of the most unique tours you can take in the Yucatan Region. You’ll explore lesser-known structures such as Muyil, a Mayan archaeological site that sits amid the mangroves of Sian Ka’an.

On the way to this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, you’ll walk a former trading post along an interpretive nature trail before your relaxing boat ride to Muyil.

After the boat ride, you’ll savor a filling picnic lunch and learn about the local flora and fauna before heading back to Tulum.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are complimentary on this small group tour.

Gain experience and have fun! It almost feels like two separate experiences in one, between the archeological Site and then lunch, with a float down the lazy river, this was one of the best experiences we did so far on our trip, and we got to meet a bunch of cool people from all over the world while doing it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ David_H, Feb 2023

6. Snorkeling with turtles in Cancun (Half day sea turtle and cenote snorkeling tour)

5⭐ 552 Reviews

This half-day tour will take you to one of the best snorkeling spots in the Caribbean! You’ll search for sea turtles and colorful tropical fish before you head to the rainforest.

Here, you’ll explore a nature park with an extensive underground river system and enjoy a refreshing swim.

The tour includes snacks, snorkeling equipment, an expert bilingual guide, air-conditioned transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

Sea turtle, cenote and lunch We saw many beautiful green sea turtles. The Cenote was amaaazzzing! The lunch was authentic and plentiful. Caesar salad, chicken and cheese (names of our crew) were the absolute best! Highly recommend ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lisa_W, Feb 2023

7. Cenotes tours (Tour Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret)

5⭐ 619 Reviews

Get the best of both worlds on this exhilarating tour of some of the best attractions on the Yucatan Peninsula!

On this full-day guided small-group tour , you’ll explore jungles, cenotes, underground caverns, and subterranean aquatic habitats.

On the tour, your guide will share Mayan folktales about the mythical guardians that protect the cenotes.

You’ll get plenty of time to swim, repel, kayak, zip line, or tube through the calm and refreshing waters.

This tour is limited to 19 people and includes snacks, a picnic lunch, and air-conditioned transportation to and from your Cancun or Riviera Maya hotel.

Best Tour Ever This was the BEST tour! Saw a total of 5 cenotes, each stopping point was clean and well kept, and had a restroom and changing rooms! The bus ride was approximately 1 hour away from the first cenote. Had so much fun zip lining, snorkeling, kayaking, rappelling, and then the last cenote had a water slide, zip line, and a cliff jump! Overall this experience was our BEST tour (we also did Isla Mujeres and Chichen Itza previous days) and would highly recommend. Lunch was excellent as well, they also provided snacks and hot cocoa after the first cenote which was amazing!!! Tour guide Elliott was hilarious and we loved him so much:) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Katelyn_M, Feb 2023

8. Rio Secreto (Rio Secreto underground river tour)

4.5⭐ 494 Reviews

Take your Cancun adventures underground to the Rio Secreto Nature Reserve . On this full-day tour, you will venture outside of Cancun to swim and wade in one of the most stunning underground caves in Mexico.

You’ll witness the famous crystal caves which are considered one of the most mysterious natural wonders of the Yucatan.

You can choose to meet your guide at Rio Secreto for no additional cost, or opt for round-trip transportation from your Cancun hotel.

If you want to add an attraction to the tour, you can visit the Tulum ruins for an additional fee.

Awesome experience seeing the underground caves. These underground caves are amazing – our tour guide led us through caverns, showing us stalactites and stalagmites, sometimes wading, sometimes swimming, sometimes walking, demonstrating the absolute darkness when we all turned off our headlights, and giving us an opportunity to go through about 1 km of caves. We were provided wetsuits, water shoes, and hard hats with headlamps and well educated about the geology and conservation. Lunch was surprisingly good too. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Gill_R, Feb 2023

Boat tours in Cancun

One of the best ways to explore the Yucatan is from the water! There are numerous ways you can do this – swimming, snorkeling , paddle boarding, kayaking, and more.

However, the best and most exhilarating water activity you can enjoy while in Cancun is a boat tour .

Read below to learn about the best Cancun tours by boat.

9. Cancun tours to Isla Mujeres (Private Isla Mujeres catamaran tour with open bar)

5⭐ 303 Reviews

Experience what it’s like to have your own private catamaran as you sail the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea!

On this half-day cruise, your experienced captain will sail to Isla Mujeres or your choice of destinations around the bay.

Once you anchor down, you will have plenty of time to go snorkeling at the coral reef, relax on secluded beaches, or lounge on the catamaran’s deck.

The catamaran can accompany up to nine people and includes unlimited drinks and the use of snorkel equipment.

Amazing time! Absolutely amazing experience, the crew was awesome and exceeded my expectations! If you’re debating on taking this trip, just do it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sara_S, Jan 2023

10. Cancun tours to the Paradise islands (Paradise Islands tour)

5⭐ 10 Reviews

This full-day, the guided excursion is all-inclusive! Enjoy a light breakfast before you head out to explore Isla Contoy and then Isla Mujeres by speedboat .

Here, you will make a stop at the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef before you search the protected reserve for nesting seabirds.

After a hearty lunch of local cuisine, you can choose to relax on a white-sand beach or swim in the warm Caribbean waters of Isla Mujeres .

The marine life conservation tax, photos, and souvenirs are not included.

11. Catamaran tours Cancun (Luxury Catamaran, snorkel & visit to Isla Mujeres)

4.5⭐ 1,972 Reviews

This half-day sailing adventure will take you to one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean: Isla Mujeres.

You’ll burn calories snorkeling and refuel with a gourmet lunch on board the catamaran. On land, you can choose to take a guided tour or explore the island on your own time.

Before heading back to port, you’ll sip on a complimentary beverage and take in the sights of the sunset and the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Guests must be at least eight years old to go on this adventure. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included but souvenir photos and gratuities are not.

Excellence in all details .. a great excursion Cancun adventures did such an incredible job with me and my family. Totally recommend them. The trip is worth it but recommend going in the morning as the island gets crowded in the afternoon our Guide Marlene was extraordinarily friendly and useful. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ todovika, Feb 2023

12. Boat party (Hip Hop sessions boat party)

4.5⭐ 461 Reviews

Dance the day away on this three-and-a-half-hour adult-only bilingual party cruise . Bust a move to hip-hop tunes as you enjoy hours of fun sailing along the Mexican coastline.

Professional DJs play their best R&B remixes as you enjoy champagne showers and complimentary drinks from the open bar.

You can choose to snorkel in the warm waters when the boat anchors, or stay on board to enjoy the music. Snacks and professional photos are included.

Adult fun. Great music, good vibe staff was excellent. Drinks constantly flowing and very entertaining. Sandwiches were served .Also, able to jet ski and jump in ocean. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Evelynn_R, Feb 2023

Fishing and water sports tours in Cancun

Did you know that Cancun is one of the most popular fishing hotspots in the world? Operating on a ‘catch-and-release basis, different species can be caught in different seasons of the year.

If fishing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other water sports to enjoy in the Yucatan. Read about some of the best ones below!

13. Kayaking tours

Kayaking adventure through laguna nichupté).

5⭐ 59 Reviews

This is the ultimate kayaking tour ! With expert guides that are certified to operate in Natural Protected Areas, you will paddle throughout the mangrove forests to explore the biodiversity within the Nichupté Lagoon.

A great excursion to enjoy with families, couples, and children, it’s a great way to escape the bustling city.

You’ll search for wildlife including native birds, starfish, sea sponges, and sea squirts. Along the way, you’ll learn about the birth of the mangroves themselves and their importance to the reef.

All kayak equipment, snacks, and fees and taxes are included.

Spectacular The excursion was most peaceful. The passing through the mangroves was beautiful. We saw some amazing stingrays in the clear blue water. Alfredo was very intelligent. He definitely knew his surroundings and he showed real appreciation for his environment. Alfredo is definitely a winner. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Carolyn_B, Nov 2022

14. Stand-up paddle boarding tours (Paddle Board at Sunrise or Sunset)

5⭐ 9 Reviews

Can you imagine anything more beautiful than watching a Caribbean sunrise from the comfort of your own paddle board? Now you can!

On this incredibly unique two-hour tour , you’ll learn how to use a paddle board before taking to the sea with an expert guide.

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers regardless of your level of expertise. For those who wish to paddle later in the day, sunset paddles are also an option.

All photographs are included.

Mangroves and Sunset Paddle boarding Samy was a great guide. I ended up being the only one on the tour which was a fantastic experience. Her English was great and I learned a lot about the mangroves and paddle boarding, since it was my first time. This experience is a bargain for what you get and I would recommend for sure. It allows you to be one with nature not far from the hustle and bustle. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hillary_S, Dec 2022

15. Fishing tours (Cancun Fishing Charter)

Try your hand at some of the best fishing waters in the world. Hop aboard a private vessel with up to eight of your friends for your own private fishing excursion .

On this well-equipped, air-conditioned boat, a veteran crew will help you choose the length and type of fish you want to catch.

Some popular species on this tour include the Marlin, Barracuda, Grouper, Sailfish, and many others.

You can choose to enjoy your catch at a nearby island restaurant or right on the boat. The tour includes bait, gear, snacks, drinks, and photos and videos of all captures.

Fantastic fish filled day out Great to share my son’s first real deep sea fishing experience. Captain and crew were all very helpful one knowledgeable. An overall fantastic day out! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ james_b, Aug 2022

16. Snorkeling tours in Cancun (Reef & shipwreck snorkeling tour)

4.5⭐ 872 Reviews

Dive into the stunning underwater world on this three-and-a-half-hour snorkeling excursion . You’ll explore one of the Yucatan’s most famous shipwrecks while you search for tropical fish, coral reefs, giant sea turtles, and other marine life.

A smaller group tour guarantees a more personalized experience and more space to explore.

Snorkeling equipment and round-trip transportation to-and-from most Cancun hotels is included.

Simply Amazing This Trip was amazing. I highly recommend going on the 7 am tour! You get to see the sunrise and the snorkeling was impeccable. We saw 2 sea turtles, a lot of fish, a small nurse shark, and a lot of rays. It was very much worth every penny! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trevor_C, Feb 2023

Horseback riding tour

17. horseback riding & cenote swim.

5⭐ 1,004 Reviews

Head into the jungle on this two-hour tour that combines horseback riding and a cenote swim in one.

Departing from either Cancun or Playa del Carmen , you’ll travel to Rancho Bonanza, a ranch that houses rescued and rehabilitated horses.

First, you’ll be matched with a horse based on your experience level (beginners are welcome!).

Next, you’ll explore the jungle on horseback to learn about the local flora and fauna and the practice of making bubblegum.

Lastly, you’ll make your way to a natural cenote for a refreshing swim in the cool water. Horseback riding equipment, towels, bottled water, snacks, and round-trip transportation are provided.

Wonderful experience Excellent staff Great safety Wonderful combo of riding, seeing the jungle, history of the area, and swimming in the cenote. It was wonderful. The experience accommodates beginners for sure ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ DianeC_L, Nov 2022

Jungle tours Cancun

18. speed boat tour & snorkeling.

4.5⭐ 989 Reviews

If you’re looking to stay cool amid Cancun’s hot and humid climate, this tour is for you. You’ll head to the Jungle Tour Adventure Cancun Marina prior to departure for a safety demonstration and instructions.

After the safety briefing, you’ll take to the water on a 2-person speed boat through stunning mangrove canals to the Nichupte Lagoon in search of birds and other marine life.

Once you reach the National Park of Punta Nizuc, you’ll spend 30 to 40 minutes snorkeling the coral reef and beautiful turquoise waters.

This tour includes an expert guide, snorkel gear, and bottled water.

Great SpeedBoat and Snorkeling Adventure Great experience! Carlos was amazing and very helpful. The videos and pictures were the highlights. I will recommend Jungle Tours to all my friends and family. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Marcia_S, Feb 2023

Adventure tours Cancun

19. atv, ziplines & cenote tour.

4.5⭐ 1,491 Reviews

Want to experience the ultimate adventure tour? Then keep reading!

This tour combines zip lining, swimming, and off-roading on a small group adventure tour from Cancun to Extreme Adventure Eco Park.

Your adventure will begin in the jungle, soaring through the trees on a series of zip lines and hanging bridges.

You’ll take in the sweeping views of the jungle canopy below while you challenge your balancing skills.

After zip lining, you’ll hop on your own Honda 220cc ATV to safely explore rugged jungle trails full of rocks and roots.

After the land adventure, you’ll return to the water to cool off in a refreshing cenote. Here, you can zipline, cliff-jump, or take the stairs into the underground pool into the limestone cave system.

Before heading back to Cancun or Riviera Maya , you’ll refuel with a light snack and water. Roundtrip transportation, hotel pickup and drop off, snacks, and use of snorkel gear are complimentary.

Super Fun! Mary was awesome! Loved her energy and the way she handled the excursion. She made this experience super fun for us. I loved the tour itself and was pleasantly surprised by how fun it was. Worth every penny! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Tran_N, Dec 2022

Adventure Parks

Adventure and eco-parks are some of the most popular attractions in Cancun – and for good reason!

They ensure a fun-filled day for the whole family with plenty of games and unique water activities to cool off.

Read about some of the top adventure parks in Cancun below!

20. Xplor Park

4.5⭐ 370 Reviews

Xplor Park by Xcaret is a great option for fun with the entire family. This adventure park includes everything you need for the ultimate outdoor experience .

From multiple zip-lining circuits and amphibious vehicles to relaxing cenotes and underground caverns, you can take in the very best of the Yucatan all in one place!

After working up an appetite, enjoy drinks, snacks, or a buffet of local cuisine at Xplor’s on-site restaurant, Troglodita.

All activities are overseen by expert guides.

Amazing!!! There wasn’t anything that I didn’t like about this adventure. From the different zip lining, atv ridding and great restaurant to eat (and healthy snack station). EVERYTHING WAS EXCELLENT!!!! I recommend for anyone and everyone to do it. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jennifer_R, Feb 2023

21. Xcaret 

4.5⭐ 1,265 Reviews

Known as the greatest natural water park in Mexico, Xcaret is the most popular theme park in the Yucatan.

The recipient of numerous travel awards, it’s the ultimate playground for adults and children alike. The water park , theme park, amusement park, and eco-archaeological parks in one feature top-rated hotels, adult-only properties, underground rivers, boat excursions, shows, historical churches, a wine cellar, and a 19th-century Mexican mansion.

The grounds are also home to Children’s World with slides, hanging bridges, and tunnels, a Main Plaza with restaurants and shopping, and a Pre-Hispanic Village.

Beautiful Get the plus admission! The food at the buffet was amazing 🤩 would have never expected that. The park is wonderful and a must, when you are in Cancun. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stefanie_K, Feb 2023

4.5⭐ 62 Reviews

This all-inclusive water park in Tulum is the conversion point of several underground rivers. In fact, the huge inlet is the center of the world’s largest network flow.

It’s home to numerous species of flora and fauna including mangrove forests, marine life, and other animals.

The grounds are even home to a nursery with more than 270 species of native and endangered plants.

In addition to its beautiful scenery and eco-friendly efforts, admission to Xel-Há includes unlimited food, beverages, and snorkeling.

There are also numerous bars on site to enjoy their refreshing adult beverages in between your snorkel and swimming sessions.

Great eco-park! Just watch utube vids- their own promotional ones- they deliver the goods! You don’t see the crowded eating/drinking areas, but the park itself is large enough that crowding want really a bother. Numerous included activities available, so don’t get there late. We showed up at noon and had to miss out on a few things. We thought getting there at 9am would make for to long a day, but we found time flew by and we were rushing. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Angel_G, Jul 2018

Xenses is a half-day park that features numerous activities and scenarios that put your senses to the test.

Different areas of the park test your bodily senses including your balance, touch, sight, sound and smell.

These areas include the Path of Doing, the Path of Feeling, and Fantastic Scenarios.

The Path of Doing tests your balance with zip lines, a rapid descend Slip slide, and spa activities including mud baths, a salt river float, and skin purifying.

The Path of Feeling tests sight and touch with pitch-black darkness that explores what it would be like to be a dwarf and a giant, fun optical illusions, and fun caverns and caves.

Fantastic Scenarios includes more than 50 situations that capture extraordinary moments. Take photos in the tunnel of hearts, experience what it’s like to lift the weight of the world, visit the upside-down house, and float inside a pool without getting wet.

Fun family time Very fun. The pueblo is a highlight, as is the waterslide and mud. Lots of laughs. Right experience for kids age 10 and 9. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Andrew_P, Dec 2022

24. Food & Drink Tours

5⭐ 437 Reviews

This one’s for those who travel for the food! On this 3-in-1 half-day food tour of Cancun, you’ll eat and drink everything the locals do.

You’ll visit open-air markets, street food stalls, and hidden alleyways with vibrant street art. A few of the popular stops you’ll make along the foodie journey include Mercado 23, El Polilla, and La Michoacana.

It’s best to come hungry on this tour! You’ll learn about Mexican life and culture as you sample many local specialties such as barbacoa, tacos, guacamole, traditional ice cream, and other Yucatecan food.

Amazing I absolutely loved the food and the popsicles. They all were so good. The waiters were so sweet. The downtown murals are such a beautiful sight to see. Roy was our tour guide and he was AMAZING. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ALYSSA_N, Feb 2023

Culture & NightLife Tours

You can’t visit Cancun and not experience the nightlife! It’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself and learn about the Yucatan’s rich cultural heritage.

After all, it’s considered one of the best party destinations in the world! If you’re up for it, read below to learn more about some of the best nightlife excursions in Cancun.

25. Jolly Roger Pirate Night show & dinner

Join a real-life Captain Black Jack and his pirate crew to find the Golden Fleece treasure! You’ll begin your adventure aboard the Santa Maria replica, the Jolly Roger’s 112-galleon ship in Cancun’s Hotel Zone.

After posing for a photo with the pirate crew, you’ll sip on a drink of your choice from a great selection of wines, beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks.

As you leave port, the dancing will begin to work up your appetite for a delicious gourmet dinner!

After dinner, you’ll indulge in a special pirate show and witness a stunning fireworks display as you continue to dance the night away.

Gratuity, docking fees, and the welcome photo are not included.

26. Cirque du Soleil 

4.5⭐ 603 Reviews

Go from the jungle to the big top with an exhilarating Cirque du Soleil show with dinner ! You’ll begin the night at the Vidanta Riviera Maya resort’s custom-built theater for the Cirque du Soleil® show ‘JOYÁ’.

JOYA, the first resident show in Mexico, tells the story of an alchemist and his teenage granddaughter who set out to find the secrets of life.

The show weaves in the rich heritage and history of Mexico throughout the shoe. You can choose from different ticket options depending on your budget and the experience you want to have.

Those with dinner tickets and prime seating will enjoy an intimate dinner including Mercier Champagne and a three-course meal.

This excursion includes pick-up and drop-off from the meet-up point in the Cancun Hotel Zone .

BEST SHOW EVER!!! The acrobatic performances were amazing!!! The agility and flexibility of the performers was out of this world. I enjoyed every second of it. I can’t compliment this show enough!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jamiyla_H, Mar 2023

Cancun Tours & Excursions : Final thoughts

Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, explore Mayan ruins, or swim with the largest fish on earth, Cancun has a tour for everyone.

However, it’s important to do your research to determine which companies and tour guides are reputable and provide the type of experience you might be seeking.

This will help prevent travel mishaps, missed opportunities, and potentially wasted money.

Try to plan ahead as much as possible (typically 2-4 weeks when it comes to booking tours and excursions).

Since Cancun is such a popular destination, know that tours and excursions may fill up quickly, especially during the week of Spring Break and the summer months.

Explore as much as you can in the time you are given (and within your budget!). One of the great things about Cancun is that there’s always something to see and do with many options to fit every budget.

You can sail the Caribbean on a private catamaran or hike through underground caverns one day, and enjoy dinner and a show the next.

The opportunities are endless!

Hey there! This is Isabella, the founder and author of this site. I have been living in Cancun for the past 13 years and although I have been roaming around Mexico, Cancun's spectacular turquoise waters and pristine beach draw me back to this popular Mexican beach destination. That is why I decided to start this blog, to show you all the beauty you can find in Cancun and share helpful travel tips to help you plan a fabulous vacation in Cancun!

What does a tour guide do?

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What is a Tour Guide?

A tour guide provides assistance, information, and guidance to individuals or groups of tourists during their travels. Their primary role is to enhance the travel experience by sharing knowledge and insights about the destinations, attractions, and cultural aspects of the places being visited. Tour guides are well-versed in the history, geography, culture, and traditions of the locations they cover, and they use their expertise to educate and entertain the tourists.

Tour guides are responsible for organizing and leading tours, ensuring that the itinerary is followed, and the group stays on schedule. They may work in various settings, including cities, historical sites, natural landscapes, or cultural landmarks. During tours, guides provide commentary, answer questions, and engage with the tourists, creating an interactive and immersive experience. They may also assist with logistical matters, such as arranging transportation, coordinating entry to attractions, and recommending places to eat or shop.

What does a Tour Guide do?

Tour guides bring destinations to life by providing valuable expertise and insights. While guidebooks and online resources can offer information, tour guides offer a unique and personalized experience that cannot be replicated.

Duties and Responsibilities Tour guides have a range of duties and responsibilities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for tourists. Some of the key responsibilities include:

• Planning and organizing: Tour guides research and plan tour itineraries, considering factors such as the duration of the tour, the interests of the group, and the availability of attractions. They arrange transportation, accommodation, meals, and any necessary permits or tickets, ensuring that everything is well-coordinated.
• Providing information and commentary: A primary role of tour guides is to offer informative and engaging commentary about the destinations being visited. They share historical facts, cultural insights, and interesting anecdotes to educate and entertain tourists. Guides should have a deep understanding of the locations, including their history, architecture, local customs, and traditions.
• Leading tours and managing groups: Tour guides are responsible for leading the group throughout the tour. They ensure that the group stays together, follows the itinerary, and adheres to any safety guidelines. Guides should have good organizational and leadership skills to manage groups of varying sizes and diverse backgrounds.
• Assisting with logistics: Tour guides handle practical aspects of the tour, such as coordinating transportation between sites, arranging entry to attractions, and managing timing to optimize the itinerary. They provide directions, answer questions, and offer recommendations for meals, shopping, and other activities.
• Ensuring safety and security: Guides prioritize the safety and security of the tourists. They inform the group about potential risks or hazards, and they take necessary precautions to prevent accidents or incidents. In emergency situations, guides should be prepared to provide assistance and follow appropriate protocols.
• Interacting and engaging with tourists: Tour guides create a welcoming and interactive environment for tourists. They foster a positive and friendly atmosphere, encourage questions, and actively engage with the group. Guides should be approachable and adaptable, catering to the needs and interests of the tourists.
• Resolving issues and addressing concerns: Tour guides act as a point of contact for tourists, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise during the tour. They handle complaints, resolve conflicts, and provide assistance or alternative solutions when needed.
• Promoting responsible and sustainable tourism: Guides play a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism practices. They educate tourists about local customs and cultural sensitivities, encourage respectful behavior towards local communities and the environment, and advocate for sustainable travel practices.

Types of Tour Guides There are various types of tour guides, each specializing in different areas and catering to specific types of tours. Here are some common types of tour guides and a brief description of what they do:

• City Tour Guides: City tour guides specialize in providing tours within a specific city or urban area. They are well-versed in the history, architecture, landmarks, and culture of the city. Their role is to guide tourists through popular attractions, historical sites, and local neighborhoods, offering insights and commentary along the way.
• Cultural Tour Guides: Cultural tour guides focus on highlighting the cultural aspects of a destination. They provide in-depth knowledge about local traditions, customs, festivals, and arts. These guides may accompany tourists to museums, art galleries, cultural events, or religious sites, helping them understand and appreciate the cultural significance of these places.
• Ecotourism Guides : Ecotourism guides are responsible for designing and planning itineraries that are environmentally and culturally responsible, researching the destination, developing educational materials, preparing necessary equipment, and coordinating logistics such as transportation, accommodation, and meals.
• Adventure Tour Guides: Adventure tour guides lead tours focused on outdoor activities and adventure sports such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, or skiing. They possess skills and knowledge in the specific activities offered, ensuring the safety of participants while providing guidance and instruction. Adventure guides may take tourists to remote and challenging locations, coordinating logistics and providing a thrilling experience.
• Historical Tour Guides: Historical tour guides specialize in providing detailed insights into the history of a destination. They are knowledgeable about specific historical periods, events, and significant landmarks. These guides often work in historical sites, monuments, or archaeological sites, sharing historical context and stories that bring the past to life for tourists.
• Specialized Tour Guides: Specialized tour guides cater to niche interests or specific types of tours. Examples include food tour guides who focus on culinary experiences, wine tour guides who provide expertise on vineyards and wine tasting, or art tour guides who lead tours in museums and art galleries, offering interpretations of artworks.

Are you suited to be a tour guide?

Tour guides have distinct personalities . They tend to be social individuals, which means they’re kind, generous, cooperative, patient, caring, helpful, empathetic, tactful, and friendly. They excel at socializing, helping others, and teaching. Some of them are also enterprising, meaning they’re adventurous, ambitious, assertive, extroverted, energetic, enthusiastic, confident, and optimistic.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if tour guide is one of your top career matches.

What is the workplace of a Tour Guide like?

The workplace of a tour guide can be quite diverse and dynamic, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor environments. One aspect of their workplace involves cultural and urban settings. City tour guides, for instance, operate within bustling cities, leading tourists through streets, squares, and iconic landmarks. They may work in vibrant neighborhoods, historic districts, or cosmopolitan areas, immersing tourists in the local culture and urban atmosphere. These guides navigate through crowded streets, interact with locals, and provide insights into the city's history, architecture, and vibrant lifestyle. They may also lead tours in museums, art galleries, or cultural centers, where they can showcase the city's artistic and cultural offerings.

Another significant aspect of a tour guide's workplace is outdoor settings. Nature and wildlife tour guides find themselves working in breathtaking natural landscapes, such as forests, mountains, or coastal areas. These guides lead groups on hikes, nature walks, or wildlife safaris, sharing their knowledge about the local flora, fauna, and ecosystems. Their workplace is characterized by stunning scenery, serene environments, and opportunities for visitors to connect with nature. Adventure tour guides also operate in outdoor settings, taking tourists on thrilling activities like rafting, rock climbing, or skiing. They work in adventurous and often remote locations, ensuring the safety of participants while providing an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Additionally, the workplace of a tour guide can extend to various modes of transportation. They may lead tours on buses, boats, trains, or even walking tours, utilizing different forms of transportation to explore diverse attractions and destinations. This allows guides to provide a comprehensive experience, showcasing various facets of a region while offering comfort and convenience to tourists.

Tour Guides are also known as: Tourist Guide

Cancun Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover things to do and plan a trip to cancun, mexico with a local guide.

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Popular Cancun Tour Guides

Hi guys, it's Alex here! ✌️ For over 5 years, I and my colleagues have been organizing tours to some of the most incredible places in and around Mexico City. As a team of local guides, we aim to help travelers discover our beautiful city and its surroundings in the most interactive, authentic, and fun way. In our tours, we strive to do things differently: avoid tourist traps, go off-the-beaten paths, interact with locals, learn about their traditions, and connect with their core values. So, if you want wanna discover Mexico from a local perspective, and get to know its history, culture, gastronomy, and nature, consider hiring us as your guides. Be sure, we will make your experience in Mexico City unforgettable!                                                                                                                                  

Welcome to Mexico! I'm thrilled that you've chosen to explore this cherished corner of the world that I hold so close to my heart. Originally from Mexico City, I've spent over 18 years immersed in the Cancun and Riviera Maya region, including Playa del Carmen and Tulum. For the past 16 years, I've worked as a dedicated tour guide, starting with local adventure and culture tours. This journey has led me to connect deeply with the Mayan communities, learning from their wisdom and traditions. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of guiding countless travelers—though I've lost track of the exact number. But one thing I can confidently say: I adore this profession. My exploration extends beyond these coasts. I've journeyed extensively across southeastern Mexico on overland tours spanning 10 to 15 days. Traveling from Mexico City to Playa del Carmen, I've traversed Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Tabasco, and the entire Yucatan Peninsula—my specialty. What I truly love are private tours. As for sales pitches, that's not my forte. But rest assured, we're destined to have a blast. We'll dive into cenotes, master the art of crafting corn tortillas, ascend ancient Mayan temples, learn from original cultures, and even grasp a few phrases in the Mayan language. Expect jungle hikes, exhilarating bike rides, an abundance of photographs and videos, snorkeling through vibrant coral reefs, and tranquil boat trips through nature reserves—home to crocodiles, spider monkeys, howling monkeys, flamingos, eagles, and more. We'll explore renowned spots for capturing epic photos. I can't wait to share these experiences with you. Until then, take care and see you soon!                                                                                                                                  

Hi friends, my name is Octavio. I have 7 years dedicating to tourism. From chill activities like camping, hiking or cultural tours, to a lot of adventure like rafting, rappel, cliffjumping, mountain biking, diving, climbing, wakeboarding, among other ones. Let me present you the best experiencies and guide you throug waterfal, cenotes, caves, trails, camps in the incredible jungles of Mexico, I love to share nature experiences with my clients, so we can remind the importance of everything that surround us.                                                                                                                                  

Fernando Y.

Welcome to a unique travel experience i am fernando y, private tour guide. i’m excited to share how my passion for travel and local knowledge can make your experience unforgettable. 8 years ago, my love for méxico and my fascination with urban photography led me to become a tour guide. each tour is an opportunity to explore and capture the unique essence of our cities and landscapes. as an experienced tour guide, my approach goes beyond the conventional. i pride myself on my ability to immerse visitors in the cultural richness of the places we visit, offering a unique and enriching experience. my method involves not only providing historical facts but also engaging in a deeper analysis of the design of ancient cities, particularly those steeped in antiquity like those of the mayan civilization. to make a more complete and entertaining tour, i use digital visual media and maps. i consider myself a good photographer, you can always support on me to get the best photos, from the best angles. my success, you do not adapt to me, once i meet you at the beginning of the tour, i adapt to you.                                                                                                                                  .

Alejandro B.

My name is alex around 12 years ago, i decided to embark on a life-changing adventure and transitioned from the world of architecture to the outdoorsy world of hospitality in the riviera maya. this shift allowed me to follow my heart's calling and explore my two greatest passions - history and nature. through my work as a tour guide, i have the incredible opportunity to share the rich history and cultural heritage of this region with travelers from around the world. i aim to foster a deeper appreciation for history, culture, and the environment. i believe that by understanding our past, we can make better decisions for the future, and by cherishing and preserving nature, we can leave a positive impact on the planet for generations to come. as we venture through this amazing region, i will weave together captivating stories of ancient civilizations, and lead you to the mesmerizing cenotes that hold secrets of the past. whether you are a fellow enthusiast of architecture or a nature lover eager to explore the wonders of the riviera maya, i invite you to join me on this journey. together, we can uncover the region's hidden gems, and learn from its rich history. so, let's embark on a culinary, cultural, and full of nature adventure, where we'll immerse ourselves in the heartwarming traditions, and create unforgettable memories together. come, let me share the treasures of my homeland with you                                                                                                                                  .

My name is Jeronimo (Jeroen). I'm Mexican and European. I studied economics with a specialization in International Management at Maastricht University, The Netherlands. I have always been fascinated by Latin America. After my studies I worked as a consultant, entrepreneur and commercial director in Belgium, Brazil, The Netherlands, Guatemala, and Argentina. I have been active in humanitarian aid in Third World countries worldwide. I have travelled extensively to Africa, Eastern Europe and Latin America. I have worked as a tour conductor in France, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize and Indonesia. Mexico is where I decided to stay twenty years ago. I started off with groups of 20 people with trips of 28 days from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize and back to Mexico. After this I switched to trips of 21 days visiting the same countries. After having visited each archaeological site over 60 times, each time with another local guide, I decided to study Mexican History and Archaeology, inspired by some of the local guides who told the tourists that the Mayas landed from Mars in spaceships. I am specialized in Maya culture. Working with people and showing them different cultures is what fascinates me. In 2004, I started off with the big tour companies like TUI and Thomas Cook, who commercialized the trips from 28 days and reduced it to 12 days. I did that for 10 years, after which I went on as a private tour guide/driver for small groups. I offer private day tours and multi day tours to all archaeological sites and nature parks transportation included in English, French, German, Dutch, and Spanish.                                                                                                                                  

Hello fans of the Maya culture! My name is Jens, I am a German living in Cancún, México. I am a specialized tour guide with an official guiding license in Mexico for English, Spanish and German, and have been working in the Maya area for 25 years. My specialty is Maya calendar and Maya hieroglyphic writing. I have written a number of books and articles about those topics. I would like to guide you in the famous Maya ruins like Tulum, Chichén Itzá, Uxmal, Palenque, Calakmul and others. I also know some secret Maya ruins where no other tourists go. See you soon! Bis bald! Hasta pronto!                                                                                                                                  

Popular cancun private tours.

Day trip from Cancun to Tulum and Cobá in minivan

Starting from your hotel in the Riviera Maya (between Cancun and Playa del Carmen) we pick you up at your hotel and with an official van for tourism we go to visit Tulum and Cobá. I will reveal to you some secrets about the history of the Maya and will show and explain to you some Maya hieroglyphs in Cobá. After lunch we will go swimming in a cenote (cave lake). This tour includes a Maya codex as present.

Chichen Itza Private Day Tour

Private day tour to one of the seven world wonders, the archaeological site of chichen itza, a cenote (water sinkhole) and the colonial city of valladolid with your own driver/guide in a mercedes-benz class v amg sports model, ac, leather seats, 6 passengers plus driver in english, spanish, german, dutch, or french. this itinerary can be customized according to your expectations and requirements; please message me for more details..

CHICHEN-ITZA Maravilla Private Experience

Get ready for an incredible journey we'll start with the jaw-dropping temple of kukulkan, one of the new seven wonders of the world. take a dip in a pristine cenote, a natural underground pool that's like a hidden gem. our taste buds are in for a treat with delicious local cuisine. visit the convent of saint bernardino for an instagram-worthy shot with the valladolid sign and don't forget to soak up the charm of valladolid, "la perla de occidente," with its xvi century church and main plaza..

Taco Tour Cancun: Tacos, Tequila, Shopping & More

Discover cancun's hidden gems, iconic restaurants, and must-see landmarks on a guided food tour. savor yucatecan tacos, tacos al pastor, legendary fish tacos, and a variety of carnivorous delights. vegetarian options are available too. explore a craft market, sample tequila and mezcal, and dive into mexican culture. an unforgettable, immersive culinary journey awaits in cancun.

Best of Cancun: City Tour, Markets, Cuisine & More

Discover cancun on the city tour explore the hotel zone with an optional cancun sign stop. dive into history with el meco or el rey ruins. dive into local markets for authentic mexican flavors and crafts. enjoy a ceviche feast at an iconic restaurant. an adventure of exploration, culture, and cuisine awaits.

Tagesausflug von Cancun nach Tulum und Cobá mit Minivan

Wir holen sie von ihrem hotel in der riviera maya ab (zwischen cancun and tulum). das fahrzeug ist offiziell für tourismus zugelassen. der fahrer hat einen speziellen führerschein für tourismus. wir bringen sie nach der tour zum hotel zurück. wir werden tulum und cobá besuchen sowie in einer cenote baden. ich werde ihnen geheimnisse der maya-geschichte verraten und einige maya-hieroglyphen in cobá zeigen und erklären..

Snorkel + Cenote + Reptile Center

Fun all day tour. we pick you up in your hotel at 8:30am or if you are an early bird just message me, we could start early. and then initiate the morning in a little boat trip to the 2nd biggest barrier reef in the world, where we can encounter a diversity of fish and corals, after this we enter the beautiful mayan jungle to enounter a cenote, where you can swim, jump, or enter through a zip line to the water. also, there is a small museum under of a "modern" pyramid (lunch or food not includ)..

Reef Snorkeling & Tulum Ruins Private Day Tour

Private day tour to the second-largest coral reef in the world for snorkelling and the breathtaking archaeological site of tulum located at the caribbean shore with your english, spanish, german, dutch, and french-speaking driver/guide in a mercedes-benz class v amg sports model, ac, leather seats, 6 passengers plus driver. this itinerary can be customized according to your expectations and requirements; please message me for more details., new cancun private tours.

Pink Lakes Yucatan Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos Full DayTrip

Embark on a vibrant journey to las coloradas' mesmerizing pink lakes and delve into the art of salt harvesting. glide through rio lagartos' mangroves, spotting flamingos, eagles, and crocodiles. dive into age-old mayan traditions with a mineral-rich clay mask bath, culminating with a refreshing dive on a pristine beach. indulge in authentic mexican seafood in rio lagartos. adventure, culture, and gastronomy blend seamlessly in this tour. join us for an unforgettable experience.

Tailor-Made Adventure Exploring the Peninsula's Hidden Gems.

Your personalized cancun adventure awaits: dive into iconic sites like chichen itza, tulum, ek balam, etc... snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, experience captivating cenotes, and island-hop to cozumel or isla mujeres. wander through charming towns like valladolid and marvel at mexico's pink lakes. this tailored journey showcases the yucatan's best, from hidden treasures to dining gems. let's embark on a voyage to remember.

Coba Sabrosura Adventure: Full Day Fun & Community Support

Uncover coba's secrets with biking, canoeing, zip-lining, cenote swims, and mayan encounters. explore hidden jungle temples, including the impressive nohoch mul. paddle lagoons, hike jungle trails, and maybe spot howler monkeys. soar above a lagoon, cross a hanging bridge, and descend into a stunning cenote. then, savor an authentic mayan lunch with local families – a delightful culinary journey.

Tulum Rising - Mayan Ruins, Kaan Luum Lagoon & Cenote

Explore tulum's wonders: start with ancient maya temples overlooking the caribbean sea. dive into a stunning cenote's crystal-clear waters, snorkel among surreal rock formations. relax in a picturesque lagoon, and savor mouthwatering cuisine at a traditional restaurant. an unforgettable adventure awaits join us for an unforgettable, friendly journey.

EK-BALAM Odyssey: Cenote Hunting & Valladolid Private Tour

Get ready for a unique adventure experience ek balam's magic, climb one of the yucatan peninsula's tallest temples for a stunning view, dive into a refreshing cenote, explore the charming colonial town of valladolid, savor mouthwatering local cuisine, and create unforgettable memories. it's your personal escape from the crowds.

Holbox Caribbean Island

Pick up by english, spanish, german, dutch, or french speaking driver/guide and transfer to the port of chiquila. holbox is an island in the caribbean sea. boat tour with visits of several spots: small islands, holbox, cenote. transfer back to your accommodation..

Mini Yucatan Highlights Two Day Tour

Private trip of two days visiting the main attractions of the yucatan: chichen itza, convent of izamal, merida, uxmal, valladolid and a cenote (water sinkhole) with your own english, spanish, german, dutch, and french speaking driver/guide and mercedes-benz class v amg sports model, ac, leather seats, 6 passengers plus driver. for more than 6 people, message me for a tailored offer..

Chichen Itza Tour: Pyramids, Cenote Ik Kil & Valladolid

The chichen itza tour is an absolute must for those who visit riviera maya. experience the impressive chichen itza archaeological site and visit the sacred cenote ik kil. enjoy the pick-up from your hotel in cancun or riviera maya, and savor some of the most typical yucatecan dishes. and finally, stroll the beautiful colonial streets of valladolid..

Popular Cancun Private Cars

Cancun Airport to Hotel Zone: Private One-Way Transfer

Embark on a journey in cancun with the "my cancun journey" package, designed for ease and personal touch. this tailored experience starts with a well-planned pickup from the airport, aligned with your flight details. note: pricing is specific to cancun hotel zone stays, but arrangements for other locations like costa mujeres, playa mujeres, and more can be made for an adjusted rate, ensuring your utmost convenience and satisfaction..

Chichen Itza Private Full Day Tour with Cenote from Cancun

To understand the mayan culture, its migratory processes and relationship with other city states, you truly must visit chichen itza, on the northern half of mexico's yucatan peninsula (local time in yucactan, one hour less than quintana roo where cancun is located).

Tulum & Coba - Full Day Trip from Cancun along the Caribbean Sea

By exploring tulum, we'll be actually covering what would become the last chapter of the fascinating 4000 year history of the maya civilization in addition to this, close to the cobá area, there's a beautiful cenote that we'll pass by before returning to your accommodation. cenotes are naturally formed wells, which occur when porous limestone bedrock collapsed beneath the earth's surface hundreds of years ago., cancun virtual tours.

Virtual Tour "Welcome to the Maya world"

This is a powerpoint presentation of 100 of my best slides of the maya world. we will go on a virtual tour through yucatan, belize and guatemala. you might want to book this zoom presentation before your vacation in the maya area or in case you are not able or willing to travel in person, for whatever reason. during our zoom meeting i will not just explain my slides, you can also ask questions of course..

Virtual Tour "La escritura Maya"

En nuestro encuentro de zoom interactivo, les mostraré una presentación powerpoint sobre la escritura jeroglífica maya. veremos primero, en cuales medios aparece la escritura maya. analizaremos el idioma de la escritura jeroglífica. les explicaré cómo funcionaba la escritura maya exactamente, y finalmente leeremos una inscripción completa de yaxchilán..

Virtual Tour "El astronauta de Palenque"

En nuestro encuentro de zoom interactivo, les mostraré una presentación powerpoint sobre el supuesto astronauta de palenque. tal vez han leído sobre este tema en un libro del famoso autor suizo erich von däniken o han visto programas de los "alienígenas ancestrales" en history channel. por cierto, he escrito un libro sobre este tema y también he trabajado como guía del grupo de erich von däniken en palenque en noviembre 2019. ¡se va a poner interesante.

Virtual Tour "Siete códices mayas"

En nuestro encuentro de zoom interactivo, les mostraré una presentación powerpoint sobre siete códices mayas. tal vez han escuchado, que solo existen 3 o 4 códices mayas, así que esto se debe poner interesante. algunos de los códices que presentaré, los he dibujado yo mismo. ¡déjense sorprender para aprender fascinantes detalles sobre esto antiguos manuscritos.

Virtual Tour "Bienvenidos al Mundo Maya"

Esta es una presentación de powerpoint de mis 100 mejores fotos del mundo maya. haremos un tour virtual a través de yucatán, belice y guatemala. les recomiendo este tour virtual, si se quieren dar una impresión del mundo maya antes de venir acá para vacacionar, o bien, si por alguna razón no pueden o no quieren viajar en persona. durante nuestro encuentro virtual, claro, pueden hacerme preguntas..

Virtual Tour "El calendario Maya"

En nuestro encuentro de zoom interactivo, les mostraré una presentación powerpoint sobre el calendario maya - un tema que he estudiado durante 40 años. veremos cómo se escriben los números mayas, sobre todo los números más grandes que 20. les mostraré los signos de los días y meses y cómo se combinan correctamente en la llamada rueda calendárica de 52 años. finalmente veremos el sistema de la cuenta larga y cómo se correlaciona con el sistema calendárico cristiano..

Virtual Tour "Maya hieroglyphic writing"

In this zoom meeting, i will show you a powerpoint presentation about maya hieroglyphic writing. first, we will see on which media maya writing appears. also, we will discuss the exact language in which the hieroglyphs are written. i will show you how their hieroglyphic writing works, and finally, we will read a complete inscription from yaxchilán..

Virtual Tour "The secret of the Maya Bible (Poopol Wuuj)"

In this zoom meeting, which will take about two hours, i will explain to you the secrets of the sacred book of the maya, the poopol wuuj, as it is called. this sacred book is a key to understanding maya mythology. you can count on one hand the translators of this ancient document who are alive today. i am one of them. so, you can trust me that i know what i am talking about., cancun tour reviews.

“ Excellent triop to Tulum & Coba ”

We had a day trip with Jens today visiting Coba & Tulum. It was a wonderful experience & would recommend Jens very highly to anyone interested in exploring the Myan culture and Mexico. Our day started at 8.00am and we traveled by air conditioned mini bus to Tulum. The driver was superb, very friendly, very efficient. En route, Jens introduced us to Mayan hieroglyphics, explaining the system and meaning as well as the Mayan calendar. Hugely enriching. We then traveled to Coba where Jens sorted out a bicycle 'taxi' for us so we toured the ruins at leisure without having to walk much at all. Overall a wonderful experience We then stopped for what was an exceptional local buffet for lunch and finally a cenote to have a quick swim. Honestly, an excellent day. Very highly recommended!

The pleasure was all mine.

Cancun Private Tour Guide

Dive into Cancun’s Caribbean with a private tour guide that unveils the secrets of this adventure oasis. Let’s ditch generic group shuffles for new horizons.

Embrace the extraordinary and create the tour of a lifetime beyond the hotel zone’s hotspots. The slow rolling waves and rustling palm trees of Playa Tortugas and the thriving music scene at Parque De las Palapas show off Cancun’s diverse yet hidden scenes.

Language barriers are a thing of the past with a local expert by your side. Your tour, your way, no limitations. You’re free to embrace Cancun’s authentic crafts at Mercado 28, or stroll down the streets of El Centro, sampling local flavors from one of the many taquerias as you go, every step set to the beat of your personal interests.

Cancun Frequently Asked Questions

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Tourism In Cancun Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide

Cancun, Mexico

Are you having fun right now? Seriously. I’m sure we can all agree that the most un-fun thing about planning a trip to Cancun is the part where you si...

Hiring A Guide In Cancun: Pros & Cons

Finally, your chilled agua fresca is in hand as you gaze at the crystalline waters of the caribbean sea. the toasty sun's rays mix with cooling winds ..., the best tours and activities.

With a real local of your choice

The option to personalize your tour

Just contact your favorite local

Only private tours!

So no group tours with strangers

Connect with a Cancun Local Guide

Read reviews and chat with the best local tour guides in cancun. get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today..

Transportation & Transfers

Tour cancun by car or van, get an airport transfer, or hire a private guide / driver. see reviews and all options..

Book a customizable Cancun Private Tour

Browse cancun tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite cancun tour..

Virtual Tours & Experiences

Enjoy cancun with a virtual tours & experience without leaving your home., related cancun tour guide pages.

The 10 Types Of Tour Guides: Which One Will You Be?

Posted on Dec 11, 2022 at 09:12 PM

You’re about to embark on a new career. You’ve been doing research and found that many tour guide positions are available in cities worldwide. You love people and want to share your passion for your city, so it seems like a perfect fit!

So what do tour guides do? What kind of skills and training is needed? Let’s explore these questions and more. 

What is a tour guide? 

A tour guide is someone who leads a group on tour.

The term "tour guide" is also sometimes used to describe the person who leads a sightseeing tour of a historic building, site, city, or neighbourhood. A tour guide may be employed by a museum, historical society, or other organisation interested in preserving local history and culture.

Tour guides are often called "docents" or "those who show." In addition, they are sometimes called "tour directors" or "tourist escorts," but these terms also have other meanings.

Tour guides work primarily with tourists and visitors but may also work with locals interested in learning more about their city or town.

Tour guides can be found at museums, historical sites, and other locations that showcase unique elements of local culture. Some tour guides specialise in private individuals or specific groups, while others work with larger groups of tourists worldwide.

There are many steps to becoming a tourism guide; check out the 6 best steps to becoming a professional tour guide .

10 tour guide types, which one are you?

There are many kinds of tour guides around the world; some of the most popular categories of guides include:

1. The professional tour guide

The professional tour guide is the most common type of tour guide, and it's the primary type most people think of when thinking about a tour guide. It's usually a full-time job, but it can also be part-time or a side gig. They typically work with international tourists and are licensed international tourist guides.

2. The private tour guide

A private tour guide accompanies paying clients on tours for a fee but doesn't work full-time in the industry. Instead, they use their time off from work or school to make extra money by giving guided tours to tourists in their city or country. They can offer services based on their timetable as their managers.

3. The academic tour guide

This tour guide works at an educational institution such as a university or an art museum, giving tours to students, teachers, and other community members. Academic tour guides earn additional income by educating visitors and sales commissions on books, maps, and other merchandise sold during tours. They usually have an educational background, study galleries and cultural buildings, and are often fluent in many languages.

4. The freelance tour guide

A freelance traveller gives guided tours to tourists abroad on vacation or business trips. They're adventure lovers who love private cruises to nature and other places.

The most convenient thing about freelance operators is that they're their manager and director, have flexible hours, and can choose which client to take on. 

5. The local tour guide 

A local tour guide or escort works at a tourist attraction , such as an amusement park or zoo. They may also be employed by a travel agency that offers guided tours to visitors. Some local guides work independently and receive payment directly from their customers instead of through an employer.

6- The Traditional Guide: 

The definitive guide is knowledgeable about the destination's history, culture, and sights and delivers a structured, fact-filled tour. They may use a microphone and headset to provide information to the group and incorporate interactive activities or demonstrations to engage the group.

7- The Cultural Guide: 

The cultural guide focuses on the destination's traditions, customs, and way of life and provides an immersive experience for travellers. They may take the group to local markets, homes, or community events to give them a glimpse into the daily life of the people in the area.

8- The Adventure Guide: 

The adventure guide leads active and physically challenging tours, such as hiking, biking, or kayaking. They are knowledgeable about the local terrain and wildlife and may provide instruction and equipment for the activities.

9- The Food and Drink Guide: 

The food and drink guide focuses on the destination's local cuisine and beverage culture. They may take the group to local markets, restaurants, or farms to try the local specialities and learn about the ingredients and techniques used in the area.

10- The Local Guide: 

The local guide is a native of the destination and provides travellers with a personalized and authentic experience. They may share their own stories, experiences, and the area's hidden gems and local secrets.

What kind of skills should a tour guide have?

Tour guides should have a lot of skills. They must have strong communication and social skills to communicate with the tourists and answer their questions about the city or country they visit. 

Tour guides also need to be able to explain things clearly and precisely, so tourists understand what they are seeing. In addition, they should be friendly, helpful and easygoing because they will deal with many different people from different parts of the world.

 They need to be organised, have good management skills and have an eye for detail to plan exciting and fun trips for everyone involved.

They should have good leadership skills because they will often entertain groups of people in busy cities or countries where a lot is happening at once. 

Tour guides must be able to keep everyone together and make sure no one gets lost or separated from the group. To do this effectively, tour guides must be able to think quickly on their feet and come up with solutions if something goes wrong during the trip (like legal trouble or a mix-up with security systems)

If you’re interested in being a tour guide but don’t know where to start, here are some hospitality training courses in London .

Tourist guides play a particular part in every tourism experience ; they add their signature to the social aspect of getting to know a new region. 

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Tips for planning tours & travel with us.

Here at Go Ahead, we make it easy to plan a tour. All you have to do is decide which of our travel packages excites you most, and when you’d like to travel. (A springtime escape to  Europe , anyone?) If you can’t decide, we’ll help you narrow down our vacation packages and find the perfect trip.

From there, we’ll take care of the rest. For travelers who book flights with us, our in-house team of travel experts will get to work finding flights with our trusted airline partners. And as you count down to tour, we’ll be busy booking clean, stylish, comfy hotels, planning meals at locally loved restaurants, and securing tickets to top museums, cultural sites, and, if it applies to your tour, special events.

Having our team of travel experts take care of every last logistical detail is one of  10 benefits of a guided tour versus independent travel .

When browsing our 175-plus vacation packages, here are a few things to keep in mind to help you find the just-right tours for travel to the places you’ve been dreaming of visiting.

• Your travel style.  Are you into wildlife, adventure, or food and wine? Do you want to take a deep dive into a particular destination or religion?  Want to experience a special event, or explore with a small group? We offer escorted tours designed around these  travel styles  and others so that travelers can have the experience that suits them best.
• Where you want to go.  Whether you’ve long dreamed of exploring America’s national parks, Scotland’s pristine landscapes, or Thailand’s golden temples, you can do it on our guided tours. Some of our itineraries are designed to offer travelers a deeper dive into a single country. Others take travelers to multiple countries in a single trip (think Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, or Portugal, Spain, and Morocco).
• When you want to go.  Sure, there’s nothing like Paris in the springtime. But maybe seeing the City of Light against a backdrop of fiery fall foliage is more what you have in mind. We’ll make that happen. We offer dozens of departures per tour, and in the case of some trips, we offer departures all year round. And, we make tours available for booking up to two years in advance. Having more time to pay, and more departure dates to choose from, are among the  eight benefits of booking a trip years in advance .
• Special or seasonal events.  Have you always wanted to see cherry blossoms blooming in Japan? Or sip hot, mulled wine while wandering around a European Christmas market ? Perhaps witnessing the Great Migration is at the top of your travel wish list. Events like these, and others, only happen during certain times of year, so be sure to check out tour packages for travel that occur at the same time.
• Duration.  Our tours range from six days to 22 days. Want to enjoy a quick break? Consider our shorter tours, which we offer in destinations such as Iceland, Spain, and Amsterdam. Have more time to spare? A 10-day trip to Scandinavia , or a 22-day tour of Australia and New Zealand , could be just the ticket.
• Who you want to travel with.  Many of our group trips are designed for groups of 15 to 38 travelers. (Think: more opportunities to make new friends.) If you prefer a more intimate experience, consider one of our Small Group Tours, which are designed for groups of 10 to 22 travelers. Want to explore solely with your friends or family? We happily craft Private Tours and Customized Tours for groups of seven travelers or more.

For help narrowing our trips down to the perfect tour, try our  Tour Match Quiz  →

Our trips are bookable directly through our website. (Putting $99 down with AutoPay , our interest-free payment plan, is all it takes to secure your spot on tour.) If you have questions or can’t decide which tour is right for you, you can call us at 1-800-590-1161 . We’re here to help.

We offer more than 175 tour packages. They include:

• Guided group tours.  These trips are designed for groups of 15 to 38 travelers and include Multi-Country Tours , single-country tours, and City Stay Tours , which give travelers an opportunity to explore a particular city in depth.
• Small Group Tours.  A more intimate tour experience with a group size of just 10 to 22 travelers. Small group travel styles include Food & Wine Tours, Adventure Tours, and Safari & Wildlife Tours.  
• Special Event Tours.  Typically capped at 35 or 38 travelers, these trips are designed to capture the magic of special and/or seasonal events, such as Oktoberfest, Oberammergau, New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day, Sakura (cherry blossom) season, fall foliage, Christmas markets of Europe, Halloween, and more. Find the perfect tour for you by browsing our Special Event tours .
• Private and Customized Tours.  Have a particular interest you want to explore? We happily plan Private and Customized Tours for groups of seven or more travelers. 

The price of our trip packages includes:

• A specially trained Tour Director, who will accompany your group on tour, from the moment you touch down in your destination to the time you take off again for home
• Sightseeing tours with expert local guides
• Skip-the-line admission to all museums, cultural sites, and special events that are included in your itinerary
• Overnight stays in clean, stylish, well-located hotels that our own staffers have stayed in and vetted 
• Transportation in your destination via private, luxury coach (depending on which tour you book, you may also travel by train, ferry, or airplane on tour )
• Daily breakfast at your hotel (a relaxed, convenient way to fuel up for a full day of exploring)
•  Some lunches and dinners at local restaurants or hotels 
• Free time to explore local restaurants, historical sites—anything that piques your interest—at your own pace 
• Airport transfers for travelers who book flights with us

See the latest from our travelers @goaheadtours

18 Best Websites & Apps to Find Local Tour Guides

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If you are looking at this page you are probably looking for recommendations on where to find local tour guides . There are many websites and apps where you can book local tour guides and can sometimes be difficult to find. To save you some time, we have curated a list of websites in order to help you find the best local tour guides who will surely give you an enriching experience.

Websites to Find Local Tour Guides – Worldwide

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Don’t hesitate to comment below if you wish to recommend other websites for local tour guides. Wishing you an excellent time and travel safe!! 🙂

What Does a Tour Guide Do?

How do you make your travels more memorable? Let's talk about tour guides, the unsung heroes of every great trip.

A tour guide makes up 85% of what travelers think about a tour. So, if you're running a travel business and want to improve customer satisfaction, start by hiring and/or training great tour guides.

In this guide, we'll explore what makes a great tour guide. We'll look at the skills they should have, like sharing knowledge, ensuring safety, respecting local cultures, and caring for the environment.

How important are tour guides?

Travel guides are the heartbeat of the industry. They turn simple trips into unforgettable experiences by blending stories, culture, and adventure.

These guides do more than just show the way. Whether it's leading a tour through ancient ruins, leading a wildlife safari, or guiding you through a city, they connect people with the world.

So what do they do? We've got 10 key things tourist guides should practice and be trained in.  

What does a tour guide do?

1. provides information.

A tour guide's superpower is sharing fascinating information. They don't just show places; they bring them to life with stories about history, culture, and more.

Imagine exploring an ancient site while your guide unveils its secrets, from architectural marvels to dramatic historical tales.

• Why It Matters: This storytelling turns a regular trip into an unforgettable journey. It's the difference between just looking at old stones and feeling the pulse of history beneath your feet. Tourists carry these stories home, making their experience richer and more meaningful.
• The Risk of Falling Short: A guide who can't weave these tales leaves travelers with just snapshots, not stories. It turns an adventure into just another walk, leading to disappointment and forgettable trips. For a travel business, this means unhappy customers and a reputation that takes a nosedive.

2. Guarantees guest safety

At the core of a tour guide's responsibilities is ensuring the safety and well-being of guests. This includes sticking to safety protocols, guiding guests during activities, and handling emergencies effectively.

Take a wilderness hike, for example. A skilled guide not only checks that everyone has the right gear but also clearly explains safety rules. If a hiker twists an ankle on a tricky trail, a guide's quick response is crucial.

• Why Safety is Key: Safety is the foundation of a successful tour. A guide's ability to manage risks and respond to emergencies not only protects the guests but also builds trust. This trust is essential for an enjoyable and worry-free experience.
• The Consequences of Neglect: Ignoring safety can lead to serious consequences. A lapse in safety measures might result in accidents or emergencies, tarnishing the tour experience and the reputation of the travel business. In the world of travel, a safe journey is as important as an enjoyable one.

3. Manages itinerary

A tour guide's ability to organize and execute a tour itinerary is vital. This involves scheduling activities, coordinating transport, and managing time effectively to guarantee a seamless experience.

Consider a multi-day city tour. Here, the guide carefully plans each day, arranging museum visits, landmark tours, and dining experiences, all while balancing the group's time to maximize their enjoyment.

• Why it matters: Efficient itinerary management is the backbone of a smooth tour. It ensures that every experience is woven seamlessly into the journey, giving guests a well-rounded and hassle-free experience.
• The impact of poor management: If a guide mismanages the itinerary, the tour can turn chaotic, leading to missed opportunities and dissatisfaction. Timely and organized execution is key to keeping the tour on track and ensuring that every moment counts for the guests.

4. Knows how to engage guests

A tour guide's skill at engaging with guests, answering their questions, and offering enlightening insights plays a big role in enhancing the tour experience.

Imagine a wildlife safari where the guide doesn't just point out animals but passionately describes their habits and habitats. They encourage questions, sparking a deeper connection between the tourists and the wildlife around them.

• Why engagement matters: Effective engagement transforms a standard tour into an interactive journey. It's not just about seeing; it's about understanding and connecting. When a guide is interactive, it elevates the tourists' enjoyment and enriches their learning.
• The downside of disengagement: A guide who lacks this ability may leave guests feeling disconnected and uninvolved. Engagement is key to keeping the experience lively, educational, and memorable. Without it, even the most exotic tour can feel flat and unimpressive.

5. Speaks local

A tour guide's proficiency in the local language, coupled with their ability to translate or interpret for non-native speakers, is crucial for a smooth tour experience.

For instance, in a foreign country, a skilled guide not only fluently translates the tour explanations but also bridges the gap in conversations between tourists and locals. This ensures clear and effective communication throughout the journey.

• Why language skills are vital: Being fluent in the local language is more than just about communication; it's about connection. It helps in accurately conveying the essence of culture and history, and in facilitating meaningful interactions with locals.
• The impact of language barriers: Without strong language skills, misunderstandings can occur, potentially leading to a less fulfilling experience for the tourists. A guide's ability to speak the local language fluently is key to a seamless and enriching travel experience.

6. Excels at tour planning and logistics

A tour guide's role in overseeing and executing the logistical aspects of a tour is crucial. This includes arranging accommodations, meals, permits, and tickets, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Take a cruise excursion as an example. Here, the guide handles all the details, from coordinating transport from the ship to securing attraction tickets. He also organizes a picnic lunch for the group.

• Why it matters: Efficient planning ensures that every aspect of the tour is hassle-free for guests. It's about providing a seamless experience where tourists can focus on enjoying their adventure, not worrying about the details.
• The consequences of poor planning: Poor planning can lead to logistical mishaps, inconvenience, and frustration. A tour guide's skill in managing these details is essential for a successful and enjoyable tour, enhancing the overall travel experience.

7. Respects cultural aspects & beliefs

Tour guides' ability to promote cultural respect and sensitivity among tourists is pivotal. It involves ensuring tourists appreciate and follow local customs and traditions.

For example, on a cultural heritage tour, the guide might encourage visitors to remove their shoes before entering a sacred temple. This reinforces the importance of respecting local practices.

• Why it matters: Respecting cultural norms is the key to an immersive and respectful travel experience. It helps tourists connect more deeply with the places they visit and fosters mutual understanding between different cultures.
• The impact of cultural insensitivity: Lack of cultural respect can lead to uncomfortable situations and offend local communities. A guide's role in educating and guiding tourists about these aspects is critical for maintaining harmony and enhancing the overall quality of the tour.

8. Promotes sustainability

A tour guide's commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices is crucial. This includes educating tourists on proper waste disposal and minimizing their impact on the natural environment.  

Consider a nature hike: a knowledgeable guide leads the way and teaches the group about preserving the ecosystem. They emphasize the importance of leaving no trace, like avoiding littering, to protect the environment.

• Why sustainability matters: Encouraging sustainability is vital for protecting the places we love to visit. It ensures that these destinations remain pristine and enjoyable for future generations. Responsible practices reflect a commitment to the environment and local communities.
• The risks of ignoring sustainability: Neglecting sustainable practices can lead to environmental degradation, disrupting natural balance and diminishing tourist destinations. A guide's role in promoting sustainability is key to maintaining our natural and cultural treasures.

9. Handles the unexpected with ease

Tour guides' ability to handle unexpected challenges, like weather disruptions or participant concerns, is critical.

Imagine a sudden rainstorm hitting during an outdoor activity. An adept guide doesn't just find shelter; they swiftly rearrange the schedule to adapt to the new conditions, ensuring the tour continues smoothly.

• Why it matters: The unexpected is part of travel, and a guide's readiness to tackle these surprises head-on can make or break the tour experience. Their quick thinking and problem-solving skills keep the adventure on track, providing peace of mind for tourists.
• The impact of unpreparedness: If a guide cannot manage unforeseen events effectively, it can lead to disarray and disappointment. Being equipped to handle the unexpected is essential for maintaining the flow and enjoyment of the tour, no matter what comes your way.

10. Good record-keeper

Tour guides' skill in maintaining accurate records of tour-related information, including attendance, expenses, and incidents, is vital. Utilizing an online booking system enhances this process significantly, offering ease and precision in record-keeping.

Consider a guided photography tour. With an online system, the guide can efficiently log participant details, track locations visited, and note special photographic moments. This streamlines organization and provides participants with a detailed account of their experience.

• Why it matters: Online booking systems bring efficiency and accuracy to record-keeping. They simplify data management, making it easier to track and update tour details, leading to better planning and execution. For guests, these records can become cherished summaries of their journey.
• The downside of manual record-keeping: Relying solely on manual methods can lead to errors and oversights, potentially affecting the tour’s smooth operation and perceived professionalism.

An online system mitigates these risks, ensuring records are up-to-date and easily accessible. This digital approach is a significant advantage for both tour guides and operators in delivering a high-quality travel experience.

To sum up, tour guides are much more than just travel facilitators; they are the architects of unforgettable experiences. Their expertise in delivering engaging information, prioritizing safety, seamlessly managing itineraries, and promoting cultural sensitivity transforms a mere trip into an enriching journey.

In recognizing the invaluable role of tour guides, we see them as essential guides to the world's marvels. They bring depth, safety, and insight to every adventure. They are the bridge connecting curious travelers to the wonders around them, making each journey not just a visit, but a story worth telling.

As we applaud these unsung heroes of travel, we understand that their skills and passion truly open the doors to the world's treasures for us all.

FAQ Section

What are the duties of a tourist guide.

Tourist guides provide guidance and extensive knowledge of local history, attractions, and archaeological sites while entertaining their visitors. They ensure compliance with establishment or tour regulations, manage the itinerary, and provide assistance in emergencies. Tour guides educate and interact with clients, making each destination more interesting and engaging.  

What do tour guides do daily in their tour guide jobs?

Tour guides conduct walking tours and guided tours, often in art galleries, historical sites, or remote locations. They research and plan each tour, ensuring they have extensive knowledge to share.  

Tour guides work confidently with clients, answer questions, and provide engaging and educational experiences. They also coordinate with tour companies and ensure safety practices are upheld.

Is tour guiding a hard career?

Tour guiding as a career can be demanding but also rewarding. It requires confidence in public speaking, proficiency in the English language, and the ability to teach and entertain in an interesting manner.

Tour guides must be adaptable to handle various sites and situations, from busy city tours to remote locations. It's a job that involves constant learning and interaction, making it a good fit for those who enjoy teaching and exploring.

How much does a tour guide make per tour in tour guide jobs?

Tour guide jobs earn vary. Tour guides work for tour companies or as freelancers and are often paid per tour, with rates depending on the tour's length, destination, and the guide's experience.  

Guides may also receive tips from clients for providing excellent service. Additionally, online resources and tour operator platforms can offer avenues for tour guides to find more clients and establish a stable income. Research and understanding of the local market are key to estimating potential earnings in this career.

What qualifications or training are typically required to become a tour guide?

Qualifications and training requirements can vary by location and the type of tours offered. Tour guides may benefit from formal education in tourism or related fields, as well as relevant certifications or licenses.

Training often includes developing communication skills, knowledge of the tour's subject matter, and practical guidance on leading tours.

How do tour guides handle unexpected challenges or emergencies during a tour?

Tour guides are trained to handle a variety of situations, including emergencies. They may have contingency plans in place, such as knowing the nearest medical facilities or alternate routes in case of road closures.

Communication with tour participants and swift, calm decision-making are essential skills for addressing unexpected challenges.

What's the role of a tour guide in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism?

Tour guides play a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism by educating tourists about respecting local cultures, wildlife, and natural environments. They encourage responsible behavior, such as minimizing waste and supporting local communities.

Guides also ensure that tour groups follow designated paths and adhere to any specific rules or regulations at destinations of environmental or cultural significance.

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1065 NORTH TELEGRAPH RD. MONROE, June 22nd

ROSENAU POWERSPORTS

24732 FORD ROAD, DEARBORN HEIGHTS, May 30th to June 1st

RAY C'S EXTREME

1491 S. LAPEER, LAPEER, June 6th to 8th

FOX POWERSPORTS

720 44th STREET SW, WYOMING, June 13th to 15th

LEADERS RPM

8500 W. MAIN ST., KALAMAZOO, June 20th to 22nd

POWER LODGE

6781 HIGHWAY 10 NW, RAMSEY, May 4th

Mississippi

Hattiesburg cycles, inc..

6412 HWY 49 NORTH, HATTIESBURG, May 3rd

PITBULL POWERSPORTS (JOPLIN)

3302 E. 7TH STREET, JOPLIN, April 27th

PITBULL POWERSPORTS (SPRINGFIELD)

3114 W SUNSHINE STREET, SPRINGFIELD, May 18th

BIG ST. CHARLES MOTORSPORTS, LLC

3808 WEST CLAY, SAINT CHARLES, June 6th

HEAD MOTOR COMPANY

5708 FREEDOM DRIVE, COLUMBIA, June 22nd

New Hampshire

Freedom cycle.

110 MANCHESTER ST. CONCORD, April 27th

HK POWERSPORTS OF HOOKSETT

1354 HOOKSETT ROAD, HOOKSETT, May 18th

FLEMINGTON POWERSPORTS

300 US HIGHWAY 202, FLEMINGTON, May 10th and 11th

ATLANTIC CITY CYCLE CENTER

1181 S. WHITEHORSE PIKE, HAMMONTON, May 17th and 18th

ZIA POWERSPORTS

1521 N. PRINCE ST. CLOVIS, May 18th

R & S WEST-MOTORCYCLE/ATV/MARINE

10012 COORS BLVD NW, ALBUQUERQUE, June 8th

ROBERTS SPORTS OF MALONE LLC

652 EAST MAIN STREET, MALONE, May 17th

BIBBENS SALES & SERVICE

3282 EAST BRUTUS ST, WEEDSPORT, May 24th

POWERSPORTS OF UTICA

4870 COMMERCIAL DRIVE, NEW YORK MILLS, May 11th

BUCK'S MOTORSPORTS, INC.

13090 MAIN RD, AKRON, May 10th

KLINGER POWER SPORTS INC.

33 WEST STREET, WALTON, May 8th

MADDIE'S MOTOR SPORTS SPENCERPORT

5121 WEST RIDGE RD. SPENCERPORT, May 11th

FILER'S POWERSPORTS, LLC

1136 ROUTE 31, MACEDON, June 1st

DAX POWERSPORTS

38 East Quaker Service Road, Queensbury, May 30th to June 1st

DUTCHESS RECREATIONAL VEHICLES, INC

737 FREEDOM PLAINS RD, POUGHKEEPSIE, June 6th to 8th

ISLAND POWERSPORTS

4116 SUNRISE HWY, MASSAPEQUA, June 13th to 15th

PIONEER MOTORSPORT, INC.

12220 OLEAN RD, CHAFFEE, June 20th to 22nd

KEN'S SERVICE & SALES

11500 CLINTON ST, ELMA, June 27th to 29th

PREFERRED POWERSPORTS OF SYRACUSE

8932 BREWERTON ROAD, BREWERTON, July 11th to 13th

F.X. CAPRARA MOTORCYCLES, INC.

17890 GOODNOUGH STREET, ADAMS CENTER, July 18th to 20th

North Carolina

Hunter power sports.

2520 ASHEVILLE HWY, HENDERSONVLLE, April 11th to 13th

TEAM POWERSPORTS

222 HWY 70 E, GARNER, April 11th to 13th

RIDENOW POWERSPORTS CONCORD

254 CONCORD PARKWAY S., CONCORD, April 18th to 20th

HONDA OF WINSTON-SALEM

6209 RAMADA DRIVE, CLEMMONS, April 25th to 27th

North Dakota

2600 MAIN AVENUE, FARGO, May 24th

MORITZ SPORT AND MARINE

2540 MARINA ROAD S.E. MANDAN, June 7th

OCTANE OUTLET OF EASTGATE

1150 MARIAN DRIVE, BATAVIA, May 25th

2535 COLUMBUS-LANCASTER RD NW, LANCASTER, June 8th

4075 HOOVER ROAD, GROVE CITY, June 8th

OCTANE OUTLET OF MIDDLETOWN

6775 ROOSEVELT PARKWAY, MIDDLETOWN, may 23rd to 25th

CLINTON COUNTY MOTORSPORTS

6002 N US HWY 68, WILMINGTON, May 30th to June 1st

ASK POWER SPORTS-COLUMBUS

2450 PARK CRESENT, COLUMBUS, June 6th to 8th

PONY POWERSPORTS

5370 WESTERVILLE RD, WESTERVILLE, June 13th to 15th

JOHNNY K'S POWERSPORTS

8450 ORRIN DRIVE, BURBANK, June 20th to 22nd

JOHNNY K'S POWERSPORTS OF CLEVELAND

3000 MIDWAY BOULEVARD, ELYRIA, June 27th to 29th

JOHNNY K'S POWERSPORTS OF CLEVELAND (BEDFORD)

23233 AURORA RD, BEDFORD HEIGHTS, June 11th to 13th

JOHNNY KS POWERSPORTS (NILES)

430 YOUNGSTOWN-WARREN RD., NILES, July 18th to 20th

TULSA POWERSPORTS

4926 E 21ST ST, TULSA, May 11th

POWER MOTORSPORTS

333 W. SUBLIMITY BLVD. SUBLIMITY, April 27th

PRO-CALIBER MOTOR SPORTS

3500 NORTH HWY 97, BEND, April 20th

WATER WORLD BOAT & POWERSPORT

5731 CRATER LAKE HWY, MEDFORD, May 4th

SK NORTHWEST, INC.

250 SE DIVISION PLACE, PORTLAND, June 8th

MOTOSPORT HILLSBORO

809 28TH AVE, HILLSBORO, June 22nd

Pennsylvania

Motosports inc..

2117 BALTIMORE PIKE, HANOVER, April 26th

ANDRE & SON POWER SPORTS, LLC

17084 STATE ROUTE 706 EAST, MONTROSE, April 27th

KURTZ MOTORSPORTS

151 BRYSON ROAD, ALLENWOOD, May 18th

MOTO MEMBER FAYETTEVILLE

4515 LINCOLN WAY E., FAYETTEVILLE, May 9th to 11th

DON'S KAWASAKI YAMAHA SEA-DOO CANAM

20 E. MARKET ST., HALLAM, May 16th to 18th

BROOKS POWERSPORTS INC.

10095 ALLENTOWN BLVD., GRANTVILLE, May 23rd to 25th

EAST COAST CYCLE CENTER

2800 BRISTOL PIKE, BENSALEM, May 23rd to 25th

SCHAEFFER'S MOTORSPORTS

1194 CENTRE TURNPIKE, ORWIGSBURG, May 30th & June 1st

CERNIC'S CYCLE WORLD

132 BELMONT STREET, JOHNSTOWN, June 7th & 8th

MOSITES MOTORSPORTS COLLIER, LLC

4605 CAMPBELLS RUN RD, PITTSBURGH, June 13th to 15th

SMITH MARINE LLC

573 E BUTLER AVE, NEW BRITAIN, June 20th to 22nd

BLACKMANS CYCLE CENTER

4911 BUCKEYE RD, EMMAUS, June 27th to 29th

MOUNTAIN MOTORSPORTS

3422 ADVENTURE LANE, KODAK, April 13th

AMERICA'S MOTORSPORTS

930 8th AVENUE SOUTH, NASHVILLE, April 27th

629 MYATT DRIVE, MADISON, April 27th

TOMMY'S MOTORSPORTS

550 CRABTREE RD, CROSSVILLE, May 10th

MID-STATE MOTORSPORTS, INC.

1423 INTERSTATE DRIVE, COOKEVILLE, May 4th

FRS POWERSPORTS, INC.

2175 WHITTEN ROAD, MEMPHIS, May 11th

SOUTHBOUND POWERSPORTS

2212 NORTH MAIN STREET, SHELBYVILLE, May 7th

F&T VALLEY MOTOR SPORTS, L.L.C.

3515 W EXPY 83, SAN BENITO, April 13th

8425 N. STATE LINE AVE. TEXARKANA, April 25th

HERB EASLEY POWERSPORTS

1870 U.S. HWY. 287 SOUTH, HENRIETTA, May 22nd

LONE STAR POWERSPORTS - ABILENE

2565 S. DANVILLE DR. ABILENE, May 18th

ALAMO CYCLE PLEX

11900 IH 10 WEST, SAN ANTONIO, April 12th & 13th

FORT WORTH MOTORSPORTS

2501 CENTENNIAL DR, ARLINGTON, April 11th to 13th

KENT POWERSPORTS OF SAN ANTONIO

15664 IH-35 NORTH, SELMA, April 18th to 20th

TEXAS ADVENTURE POWERSPORTS

408 S CENTRAL EXPRESSWAY, RICHARDSON, April 19th & 20th

WOODS CYCLE COUNTRY, LP

1933 N INTERSTATE 35, NEW BRAUNFELS, April 26th and 27th

RIDENOW POWERSPORTS MCKINNEY

3850 NORTH CENTRAL EXPRESSWAY, MCKINNEY, April 26th and 27th

RIDENOW AUSTIN

11405 IH 35 NORTH, AUSTIN, May 2nd to 4th

RIDENOW GEORGETOWN

2534 NORTH AUSTIN AVENUE, GEORGETOWN, May 9th to 11th

LONE STAR POWERSPORTS

4421 BELL ST., AMARILLO, May 16th to 18th

KARL MALONE POWERSPORTS PROVO

1480 N. STATE STREET, PROVO, April 13th

KARL MALONE POWERSPORTS SALT LAKE

1379 W. 3300 S, WEST VALLEY CITY, May 18th

YOUNG POWERSPORTS OF CENTERVILLE

547 S. FRONTAGE RD, CENTERVILLE, May 11th

ALL OUT CYCLES

108 KEMPSVILLE RD., CHESAPEAKE, April 18th to 20th

CYCLE CITY CORP.

634 J. CLYDE MORRIS BLVD., NEWPORT NEWS, April 25th to 27th

MOTO MEMBER PURCELVILLE

405 BROWNING CT, PURCELLVILLE, May 2nd to 4th

FREDERICKSBURG MOTOR SPORTS

430 KINGS HIGHWAY, FREDERICKSBURG, May 2nd to 4th

COLEMAN POWERSPORTS, WOODBRIDGE

14105 TELEGRAPH ROAD, WOODBRIDGE, May 9th to 11th

COLEMAN POWERSPORTS (FALLS CHURCH)

435 S. WASHINGTON ST., FALLS CHURCH, May 16th to 18th

PAULSON'S, INC.

4402 6TH AVE SE, LACEY, May 11th

PRO-CALIBER MOTOR SPORTS, INC.

10703 N.E. FOURTH PLAIN RD. VANCOUVER, May 18th

RIDE MOTORSPORTS

19035 WOODINVILLE-SNOHOMISH RD. WOODINVILLE, May 22nd

THE BROTHERS POWERSPORTS

5205 1ST ST, BREMERTON, May 25th

CLEM'S ENUMCLAW POWERSPORTS

408 ROOSEVELT AVE, ENUMCLAW, May 25th

ALLSPORT POLARIS HONDA

19505 E. BROADWAY AVE, LIBERTY LAKE, May 18th

LIFESTYLES RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS

1970 WALTON DRIVE, BURLINGTON, June 22nd

NASH POWERSPORTS AUBURN

1611 W VALLEY HWY S, AUBURN, June 15th

West Virginia

All seasons powersports.

348 ELIZABETH PIKE, MINERAL WELLS, May 11th

ECKLUND MOTORSPORTS

325 N. MALL DRIVE, APPLETON, April 26th

ACTION POWER SPORTS, INC.

S14W22605 CORAL DR. WAUKESHA, May 2nd

ROB'S PERFORMANCE MOTOR SPORTS, LLC

601 HWY Y , PO BOX 159, JOHNSON CREEK, May 4th

VETESNIK POWER SPORTS

27475 US HWY 14, RICHLAND CENTER, May 4th

HEXCO MOTORSPORTS, LLC

2794 MARINE DRIVE, OSHKOSH, May 4th

MAD CITY POWER SPORTS, INC.

4246 DAENTL ROAD, DEFOREST, May 4th

DONAHUE SUPER SPORTS

6821 HWY 54 EAST, WISCONSIN RAPIDS, May 10th

ANTIGO YAMAHA, INC.

919 SOUTH SUPERIOR ST. ANTIGO, May 11th

NEXTGEN POWERSPORTS

9443 HWY 124, CHIPPEWA FALLS, May 17th

MILWAUKEE POWERSPORTS INC.

7221 SOUTH 13TH STREET, OAK CREEK, May 18th

ENGELHART SPORTS CENTER

1589 GREENWAY CROSS, MADISON, May 18th

2BROTHERS POWERSPORTS

905 OAK AVENUE SOUTH, ONALASKA, May 18th

MILLER IMPLEMENT & PRO MOTORSPORTS

86 NORTH ROLLING MEADOWS DRIVE, FOND DU LAC, May 18th

KEN'S SPORTS OF GREEN BAY, INC.

4455 VETERANS AVE. SUAMICO, May 18th

CEDAR CREEK MOTORSPORTS

7518 HWY 60, CEDARBURG, June 1st

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Units to test-drive on site

SPYDER RT SEA-TO-SKY

Starting at $32,999

• All Spyder RT Limited features, PLUS:
• You deserve the best! Ride with the Luxurious Vegas White Satin color-matched top case and 16-spoke Moka wheels.
• Enjoy long road trips with all the comfort you need. Take advantage of the ultra-comfortable adaptive two-tone foam seat with lumbar support and the removable driver backrest for your next adventures.
• Show your style on the road! Get a unique, stylish package with modern Moka-colored trims, Sea-to-Sky stitched seats and badging.
• Adjustable side wind deflectors, coloured rear panel for a sportier look when top case is removed.

Transmission

• Instrumentation
• Safety and Security

Touring has never been this luxurious. The Spyder RT Sea-to-Sky’s adaptive foam seats make every journey a blissfully comfortable pleasure, allowing you to fully appreciate every new panorama. This superb ride’s striking looks reflect your inimitable style.

Rotax® 1330 ACE™ in-line 3 cylinders

6-speed semi-automatic with reverse function

Front: SACHS Big-Bore shocks, Rear: SACHS shock with self-leveling air preload adjustment

Cargo capacity

47 gal (177 L)

Riding modes

SPYDER F3 LIMITED

Starting at $27,899

• All Spyder F3-T features, PLUS:
• Heated grips, integrated passenger backrest and footboards.
• Standard hard saddlebags, top case & glove box for 36.8 gal (139.5 L) of storage.
• Premium BRP Audio 6-speaker sound system and handlebar control module.
• Have a smoother road-riding experience with the self-leveling air suspension for the Spyder F3.

When it’s time for an extended cruise, the Spyder F3 Limited is the perfect choice. Enjoy the infotainment system, more comfort and additional cargo space for your long adventures.

36.8 gal (139,5 L)

Dream it. Build it. Ride it.

Uplift every riding experience with accessory bundle chosen by our experts for the perfect on-road ride. this is how you keep leading the pack..

• Auxiliary Lights
• Tall Boy Windshield
• Passenger Armrests
• Deluxe Saddlebag Liners
• F3 Limited Trailering Cover
• Detachable Driver Backrest
• Passenger Hand Deflectors

SPYDER F3-S

Starting at $22,099

• Bring more power to the road with the 115 hp Rotax 1330 cc engine, semi-automatic transmission, vehicle stability control and cruise control. Choose between ECO and Sport modes to suit your driving preferences.
• All Spyder F3 models come with LED headlights for higher visibility on the road and the Super Sports Grille.
• 6.5 gal (24.4 L) of storage capacity.
• Bring more style to the road with a new colored frame plus machined and tinted 10-spoke wheels.
• Enjoy easy access to all the apps you need and an enhanced riding experience with the 10.25 in. touchscreen display with BRP Connect & Apple CarPlay.

The Spyder F3-S is the starting point for incredibly fun riding, with its outstanding engine and head-turning style.

Front: SACHS Big-Bore shocks, Rear: SACHS shock

6.5 gal (24.4 L)

Eco Mode and Sport Mode

• Outdoor Cover
• Blue Ridge Windshield
• Akrapovic Sinister Silencer
• SHAD Saddlebags F3 Rack
• and more ...

RYKER SPORT

Starting at $12,499

• All standard Ryker (900 cc) features, PLUS:
• Sport model-exclusive styling for an unforgettable road presence.
• Comfortable (still slays corners): KYB† HPG with preload adj. and Sport comfort seat.
• MAX Mount adds long-haul cargo and passenger options.
• Sport Mode for dynamic, drift-ready handling. Cruise control.

Endless possibilities mean endless fun on this ride. From hitting the road on Sport Mode to enjoying a comfortable trip, it’s built to suit all your needs, activities and plans. Get out there!

Rotax® 900 cc engine

Automatic transmission (CVT) with reverse function

Front: KYB HPG with preload ajdustment / Rear: KYB HPG with remote reservoir 4-position compression adjustable damping and preload adjustement

Glovebox with USB, 1.85 gal (7 L)

Eco Mode, Sport Mode and cruise control

Uplift every riding experience with accessory bundles chosen by our experts for the perfect on-road ride. This is how you keep leading the pack.

• Sport Grips
• Driver Comfort Seat
• Handguard Deflectors
• Aluminum Handguards
• Adjustable Sport Windshield

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CAREER PATHWAYS

Looking for the perfect job? Explore our Career Guides!

How to Become a Tour Guide

By Alyciah Beavers

Published: February 28, 2024

If you’ve been wondering how to embark on a fulfilling journey as a tour guide, this article is your roadmap to a career that lets you explore the world while sharing its wonders with others. Here, we discuss the role of a tour guide, how to become one, and some of the tour guide skills you should possess. Plus, we’ll delve into what the tour guide salary is like, helping you make an informed decision about this exciting profession.

Career Summary

Tour guide salary.

Are you wondering how much a tour guide earns in the United States? Well, the average tour guide salary is $40K per year. However, there is an estimated addition of $18K each year in bonuses, commissions, profit sharing, and tour guide tips from clients.

According to Glassdoor , here is the breakdown per each level:

• Entry Salary (US$45k)
• Median Salary (US$59k)
• Executive Salary (US$79k)

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average wage in the US is $61,900, meaning that tour guide salary falls behind the national average of other occupations.

What does a Tour Guide do?

A tour guide, also called a tour leader or local guide, plays a considerable role in promoting and preserving a town, city, organization, or country’s historical and cultural heritage. These are certified professionals licensed to lead other people on trips and tours while providing an informative, educational, and enjoyable experience.

Tour Guide Career Progression

• Entry-Level Tour Guide :  Leading basic tours, assisting with logistics, and providing introductory information to tourists.
• Tour Guide :  Leading a variety of tours, providing in-depth information, and ensuring an enjoyable experience for tourists.
• Senior Tour Guide : Taking on more complex and specialized tours, training and supervising junior guides, and often acting as a point of contact for clients.
• Specialized Tour Guide : Specialized tour guides focus on specific niches or interests within the industry, such as history, art, adventure, wildlife, or culinary tours.
• Tour Manager : They oversee the logistics and operations of multiple tours and ensure that all aspects of a tour, including transportation, accommodations, and activities, run smoothly.
• Tour Company Owner or CEO : At the highest level, a tour company’s executive director oversees the entire business. They set the company’s vision, strategy, and direction, manage financial aspects, and make critical decisions impacting its growth and success.

The Pros and Cons of Working as a Tour Guide

• You will live your dream and share your exploration and traveling passion with others.
• It is an opportunity to interact and relate with people from diverse walks of life and learn about different cultures.
• You are constantly learning about the history, culture, and geography of the places you guide.
• It is an opportunity to assist people in having memorable experiences and creating lasting memories.
• Tour guides may have to give the same tour multiple times daily, leading to repetition and potential monotony.
• Career growth and advancement opportunities may be limited for tour guides, as it’s often a front-line, customer-facing role.
• Sometimes, tour guides must work in various weather conditions, which can be uncomfortable and challenging.
• Guides may need to work with tourists who speak different languages, creating communication challenges.

Useful Tour Guide Skills to Have

• Communication Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Public speaking Skills
• Storytelling Skills
• Multilingual Skills

Popular Tour Guide Specialties

• Historical and Cultural Tours
• Culinary Tours
• Wildlife and Eco-Tours
• Religious and Spiritual Tours

Do I Need A Degree To Become A Tour Guide?

You only need a high school diploma to become a tour guide. However, different tour guide jobs need a degree. For example, to become a tour guide in a museum, you might require a degree in history-related fields.

Here are some key points to consider in determining whether to get a degree or not:

• Location and Regulations : The requirements for becoming a tour guide can vary by country and region. Some places may have specific regulations or licensing requirements for tour guides, which may or may not include the need for a degree. It’s essential to research the rules in your specific area.
• Type of Tours : The tours you want to guide can also influence the educational requirements. For example, leading historical or cultural tours may require more specialized knowledge and may be more likely to necessitate a degree in history , art, or a related field.
• Tour Company or Organization : Some tour companies or organizations may have specific requirements. Some may prioritize experience, personality, and local knowledge over formal education, while others may prefer candidates with relevant degrees or certifications.
• Tourist Demands : Understanding the needs and interests of the tourists you plan to guide is crucial. Some tourists may prefer guides with in-depth knowledge, which a degree can provide, while others may prioritize guides that offer a unique and engaging experience.
• Language Skills: Fluency in one or more languages can be a valuable asset for a tour guide. Language proficiency may sometimes be more important than a formal degree.
• Local Knowledge : For tours in a specific location, deep local knowledge, history, and cultural insights are often precious. This kind of expertise doesn’t necessarily require a formal degree.

What are the Benefits of Getting a Degree in Tourism?

Getting a degree in tourism can be important for several reasons, depending on your career goals and the specific context of the tourism industry in your region.

Here are some reasons why obtaining a degree in tourism can be beneficial:

• Knowledge and Expertise : A degree in tourism provides a comprehensive understanding of the local culture, history, geography, and other relevant information about the destinations you’ll be guiding people through. This knowledge can enhance the quality of your tours and make you a more informative and engaging guide.
• Professionalism : A degree can help you develop the tour guide skills and professionalism required to excel in the field. You’ll learn about customer service, communication, and safety protocols, which can enhance the overall experience for tourists and ensure their safety.
• Legal and Regulatory Requirements : Tour guides must be licensed or certified in many places, and a degree in tourism can help you meet these regulatory requirements. It can also provide a strong foundation for passing required exams or assessments.
• Career Advancement : A degree can open up more career opportunities within the tourism industry. For example, you might qualify for higher-paying positions, such as managing a team of guides or working as a travel consultant or planner.
• Networking : While pursuing a degree, you’ll have the opportunity to network with other students, professors, and industry professionals.
• Global Perspective : Some tour guide programs cover international tourism, which can be especially valuable for working in a worldwide or cross-cultural context. It can help you understand the needs and expectations of tourists from diverse backgrounds.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Degree In Tourism?

The time it takes to earn a degree in tourism can vary depending on several factors, including the degree level and whether you’re pursuing the degree full-time or part-time.

Here’s a general overview of the different types of degrees in tourism and their durations:

• Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism : It takes at least two weeks to complete a certificate in tourism and hospitality, where you will also get on-site training.
• Associate’s Degree : An associate’s degree in tourism or a related field takes around two years of full-time study. You will find these programs at community colleges or vocational schools.
• Bachelor’s Degree : A bachelor’s degree in tourism or hospitality management takes about 3 to 4 years of full-time study. The exact duration can vary by country and specific program requirements.
• Master’s Degree: A master’s degree in tourism or a related field usually takes 1 to 2 years of full-time study after obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Some programs may offer accelerated options, and the duration may also depend on the specific master’s program.

How Much Does It Cost To Study Hospitality And Tourism At University?

The cost of studying Hospitality and Tourism at a university can vary widely depending on several factors, including the region where you choose to study, the specific university or college you attend, your residency status, and the level of the program, whether undergraduate or postgraduate.

On average, public colleges charge $9,300 per year for in-state students, whereas out-of-state students pay $26,400 for a bachelor’s degree . 

Here are factors that can influence the cost:

• Location : Tuition fees can vary significantly from one state to another. 
• University : The reputation and ranking of the university can impact tuition costs. More prestigious universities may charge higher tuition fees.
• Degree Level : Undergraduate programs are typically less expensive than postgraduate programs such as a master’s program.
• Duration of Program : Longer programs will cost more than shorter ones.
• Additional Costs : Consider other expenses, such as housing, textbooks, transportation, and living costs, when calculating the total cost of your education.
• Scholarships and Financial Aid : Many universities offer scholarships and financial aid to help students offset the cost of their education.

Can I Become A Tour Guide Through Online Education?

Are you researching how to become a tour guide and wondering if you can study online? Yes, you can . And, it is cheaper to study online to become a tour guide.

Here’s a general outline of the steps involved in becoming a tour guide and where online education can fit in:

• Research and Familiarization : Start by gaining in-depth knowledge about the area where you wish to become a tour guide. This may involve online research, reading books, and watching documentaries or online courses related to the region’s history, culture, and geography.
• Formal Education : Many universities and colleges offer online degrees or certificates in tourism , hospitality, history, or cultural studies, which can provide you with a strong educational foundation. 
• Customer Service and Soft Skills : Effective communication, people skills, and customer service are crucial for tour guides. You can improve these skills through online courses, workshops, and books on customer service and interpersonal communication.

What Are Some Web Resources To Learn Skills To Become A Tour Guide?

Here are some web resources to help you develop the necessary tour guide skills and knowledge related to tourism and hospitality:

• National Tour Association (NTA) : The NTA provides resources, education, and networking opportunities for tour professionals. Their website offers webinars, articles, and publications on tour guiding and tourism.
• International Tour Management Institute (ITMI): ITMI offers online courses and resources for tour guides and directors. They cover various aspects of tour management, from group dynamics to destination knowledge.
• Tourism e-Lab : This e-learning platform offers a wide range of online courses related to tourism and hospitality. Courses cover tour guiding, travel management, and customer service.
• World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) : The WFTGA website provides information about professional tour guiding standards, international tour guiding events, and educational opportunities.
• Tourism and Hospitality Schools’ Websites : Many universities and colleges with programs in tourism and hospitality offer free resources, such as lecture notes and presentations, on their websites. These resources can help gain a more in-depth understanding of the field.
• Forums and Online Communities : Joining forums and communities of tour guides can be a great way to learn from experienced guides, exchange tour guide tips, and get advice. Look for platforms like TripAdvisor’s forums forums or dedicated tour guide forums.

Practical Experience

What are internship opportunities for a tour guide.

Internship opportunities for a tour guide can be a great way to gain practical experience and develop the skills necessary for a career in tourism and hospitality.

Here are some internship opportunities that can help you on your path to becoming a tour guide:

• Tour Companies : Many tour companies offer internships for individuals interested in becoming tour guides. These internships may involve shadowing experienced guides, learning about different tour routes, and assisting with tour logistics.
• Museums and Cultural Institutions : Museums and cultural institutions often offer internships related to guided tours. These internships may involve researching and developing tour content, leading tours, and interacting with visitors.
• National and State Parks : If you’re interested in nature and outdoor activities, consider internships at national and state parks. These opportunities can provide you with experience in guiding hikes, wildlife tours, and educational programs.
• Historical Sites : Historical sites and landmarks often employ tour guides. Interning at such locations can give you hands-on experience sharing historical and cultural information with visitors.
• Travel Agencies : Some travel agencies offer internships that involve assisting clients with tour bookings, creating itineraries, and learning about various travel destinations.
• Cruise Lines : If you’re interested in working as a tour guide on cruise ships, consider internships with cruise lines. These internships may involve assisting with onboard tours and excursions.
• Hospitality Industry : Some internships in the hospitality industry can also be relevant for tour guides. Working at hotels, resorts, or hostels can help you gain customer service and guest interaction skills.

What Skills Will I Learn as a Tour Guide?

Here are some of the critical skills you’ll develop as a tour guide:

• Knowledge of the Destination : A tour guide must have in-depth knowledge about the location they are guiding in. This includes historical, cultural, and geographical information and up-to-date information on local events and attractions.
• Communication Skills : Effective communication is crucial. You need to convey information clearly and engagingly to your clients. This includes public speaking, storytelling, and interpersonal communication.
• Adaptability : Tour guides must be flexible and adapt to unexpected changes or challenges during tours, such as weather, transportation issues, or last-minute schedule changes.
• Leadership : You will lead a group, manage their behavior, and ensure they follow the tour’s rules and guidelines.
• Time Management : Tours often have tight schedules, so keeping the group on time and track is crucial.
• Safety Awareness : Ensuring the safety of your clients is paramount. You need to be trained in first aid and emergency procedures and understand the local safety regulations well.
• Cultural Sensitivity : Be aware of cultural norms and differences to respect the traditions and customs of your clients, especially in a multicultural environment.
• Navigation : Familiarity with the area’s layout and understanding of maps and GPS systems are valuable for navigating destinations.
• Storytelling : Being able to tell engaging and informative stories about the location’s history, culture, and landmarks can make the tour more enjoyable and memorable for your clients.
• Knowledge of Tour Logistics : Understanding the logistics of organizing and conducting tours, such as transportation, entrance fees, permits, and other administrative tasks.
• Conflict Resolution : Dealing with client disputes or conflicts within the group diplomatically and effectively is an important skill.
• Technology: Proficiency with technology, including audio equipment, multimedia presentations, and mobile apps, helps guide the tourists, thus enhancing the tour experience.

What is the Work-Life Balance of a Tour Guide?

A tour guide’s work-life balance can vary depending on several factors, including the type of tours they lead, their company, their experience, and their personal preferences.

Here are some key considerations:

• Seasonality : Tour guides often work in a seasonal industry. Summer seasons and holidays, for instance, have long, busy workdays with limited time off. In contrast, during the off-season, they may have more flexibility and free time.
• Hours of Operation : Some tours, like day tours or city tours, have regular working hours, while others, like multi-day or specialized tours, may require irregular or longer hours. Evening and weekend work is common in the industry.
• Flexibility : Independent tour guides may have more control over their schedules and can better manage their work-life balance. On the other hand, guides employed by larger tour companies may have less flexibility and be subject to fixed plans.
• Physical Demands : Tour guiding can be physically demanding, as guides often spend long hours on their feet and may need to keep up with a fast-paced itinerary. This can impact their work-life balance and overall well-being.
• Personal Preferences : Some tour guides may prefer a more flexible, on-the-go lifestyle, while others may value a more structured work schedule. The balance between work and personal life can vary based on individual preferences.
• Time Off : Tour guides work when others have time off, such as weekends and holidays. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage, as it allows them to meet tourists during these high-demand periods but can limit their leisure time.
• Burnout : The nature of the job, with its long hours, repetitive information delivery, and the need to cater to tourists’ needs, can lead to burnout if not appropriately managed.

What’s the Career Outlook for Tour Guides?

According to BLS, the projected employment outlook for a tour guide will change drastically from 2022 to 2032, with 4,300 new jobs each year and an 8% growth in this industry.

However, the career outlook for tour guides depends on the location, the type of tours offered, and economic conditions. 

What Are The Job Opportunities Of A Tour Guide?

Job opportunities for tour guides can vary depending on their location, specialization, and skills.

Here are some common job opportunities for tour guides:

• City Tour Guide : City tour guides lead tourists on tours of urban areas, providing historical, cultural, and architectural information about the city’s landmarks, neighborhoods, and attractions.
• Museum Tour Guide : Tour guides work in museums and art galleries, offering explanations and insights about the exhibits and artifacts.
• Nature and Adventure Tour Guide : These guides lead outdoor tours, such as hiking, wildlife safaris, or adventure activities like rafting or zip-lining. They share their knowledge about local flora, fauna, and outdoor experiences.
• Cultural Tour Guide : Tour guides showcase a region’s local culture, traditions, and customs. They often lead tours to festivals, historical sites, and cultural events.
• Wine Tour Guide : Wine tour guides work in vineyards and wineries, leading tours that include wine tastings and education about the winemaking process.
• Food Tour Guide : Food tour guides introduce tourists to local culinary delights, taking them to restaurants, markets, and food-related events to sample regional dishes.
• Historic Tour Guide : Historic tour guides specialize in providing insights into the history of a particular location or landmark. They may lead tours of historical sites, battlefields, or architectural wonders.
• Educational Tour Guide : Educational tour guides work with school groups or educational institutions, providing informative tours focused on history, science, or culture.
• Cruise Ship Tour Guide : Cruise ship tour guides organize and lead shore excursions for cruise passengers at various ports of call.
• Language-Specific Tour Guide : If you are proficient in a foreign language, you can be a language-specific tour guide for tourists who speak your language. This is especially valuable in regions popular with international tourists.
• Private Tour Guide: Some tour guides offer private tours tailored to the specific interests of individual or small groups of travelers.
• Virtual Tour Guide : With the rise of virtual tourism and online experiences, there is a growing demand for virtual tour guides who lead tours via video conferencing or virtual reality platforms.

What Type of Organizations Hire a Tour Guide?

The type of companies or organizations that hire tour guides can vary based on the tours’ nature and the guiding services’ specific focus.

Here are some examples:

• Tour Operators
• Travel Agencies
• Museums and Cultural Institutions
• National and State Parks
• Cruise Lines
• Historical Sites and Landmarks
• Zoos and Aquariums
• Adventure and Eco-Tourism Companies
• Walking and Segway Tour Companies
• Bus and Trolley Tour Companies
• Language Schools
• Event and Conference Organizers
• Educational Institutions

Should I become a Tour Guide?

Looking at all the information we have discussed above, becoming a tour guide will help you develop new skills such as adaptability and communication skills. There is a chance to grow and move from entry-level to CEO based on your specialty.

However, the annual average wage is relatively lower than other occupations, which might challenge some. Therefore, look at your skills, passion, and lifetime goals to determine if the career works for you.

Careers Related to Tour Guide

• Customer Service Representative
• Event Planner
• Travel Agent

About the Author

Read more articles by Alyciah Beavers

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How to Become a Tour Guide

Last Updated: August 6, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Angela Rice . Angela Rice is a Luxury Travel Specialist and Co-Founder of Boutique Travel Advisors, a luxury travel advising business in Phoenix, Arizona. Angela specializes in consulting and curating highly customized and unique travel itineraries for clients seeking luxury, group, and multi-generational family travel. Angela studied at Arizona State University and The University of Iowa Tippie College of Business. She has prior consulting experience in accounting and business, which helps her run her business behind the scenes. Angela has been featured in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, Travel Weekly, USA Today, Travel Market Report, Phoenix Magazine, and MSN. She is also a frequent guest on WBBM News Radio 105.9 FM's Travel Tuesday show. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 535,816 times.

Being a tour guide can be a great career option for people who love to travel, enjoy being in front of a crowd, and are masters of multitasking. If that’s you, then start looking for job opportunities online and in your area. You can improve your chances of getting hired by becoming professionally certified or getting a degree. Once you’ve found a job, be ready to meet the challenges of this fun and unique but sometimes hectic position.

Looking for Opportunities

• To get started, enter something like “Be a tour guide on a cruise ship to the Caribbean” into your favorite search engine. You can then browse through tour guiding jobs with different companies, job requirements, and salaries.

• You may need to space these tours out, as some could get expensive. Budget in one tour every two weeks or so. While you’re looking for jobs, go on tours instead of going out to eat or doing other fun activities.
• Invite friends and family to take tours with you. They’ll be able to share their likes and dislikes with you, which will help you be a better guide once you find a job.

• For more information and to find a list of associations located around the world, visit: http://www.beabetterguide.com/tour-guide-associations/ .

• Be aware that travel agents may tell you they love a certain company if the two are in a partnership together, even if they know the company has some issues. Be sure to do your own research by going online or visiting the company’s offices.

• You can also look online to see if the companies have open jobs, as many will list these positions on their websites.
• If you’re hoping to become a tour guide to travel, this might not be your favorite option. Remember that doing work locally can help you build your resume and gain experience while staying in your comfort zone. You can always keep looking for travel-oriented jobs while you’re working!

Getting Hired

• You can also look online to find details about the test, study guides, and registration information. Enter something like “Professional licensing examination for sightseeing guides in New York City” to find everything you need to prepare for and take the test.
• Take the exam seriously. If you fail, you’ll need to pay the fee again!

• Be sure to register for courses meant for tour guides rather than tour directors. Tour directors are responsible for logistics and management, while guides lead groups and provide narration about places the group visits.
• These programs are great for meeting people in the field. Your teachers, in particular, could connect you with people they know are looking for guides.

• Be sure you have the time and money to dedicate to the classes. If you’re currently working a full-time job, look into taking night classes.

• Most reputable companies will run a background check before hiring you.
• If they like your application, most companies will contact you for one to two follow-up interviews before hiring you.

• These questions could be things like, “What would you do if the bus broke down?” or “What makes you excited to be a tour guide with us?”

Meeting the Challenges

• You may want to schedule alone time during your days off to balance out your work schedule.

• Attendees will ask you questions that may be slightly off-topic. Knowing these answers will impress your audience and make you a better guide.
• If you don’t know the answer to a question, say so. Tell your audience you’re not sure, but that you’d love to know the answer and will be looking for it as soon as you can.

• You can always contact your company for assistance in these situations, but you’ll need to keep a cool head. You’re the leader of the group when you’re out on a tour, and they’ll look to you for guidance.

• This might be hard if you’re leading groups in beautiful and relaxing locations, but stay strong! You’re getting paid for this work.

• You also need to make sure that you and your group respects the environment you’re visiting. You’ll be responsible for enforcing the rules.
• Always face your audience when giving tours. [14] X Research source

Community Q&A

• If you are looking for a job in a country that has an official language you do not speak, you should learn the language by signing up for a course or using language learning software. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Take a training course on first aid and CPR. Depending on the job you land, this may not be necessary, but as a tour guide, you will need to know what to do in emergency situations. It’ll also look good on your resume. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Be aware that while you may be working in a vacation spot, you are not on vacation yourself. The majority of your time will be spent working. Thanks Helpful 40 Not Helpful 9
• As a tour guide, you may be working long hours. Your job may be in an exciting location, but you must make sure you are capable of working a difficult schedule. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
• Be aware that many tour guide jobs are seasonal. This may mean you will not have consistent work in one location. However, if you don't mind traveling, you can always travel back and forth between hemispheres. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.academicinvest.com/arts-careers/linguistics-careers/how-to-become-a-tour-guide
• ↑ https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/how-to-become-a-tour-guide
• ↑ http://www.beabetterguide.com/tour-guide-associations/
• ↑ http://intelligenttravel.nationalgeographic.com/2013/01/22/so-you-want-to-be-a-tour-guide-afitz/
• ↑ http://www.besthospitalitydegrees.com/how-to-become-a-tour-guide/
• ↑ http://learn.org/articles/How_Can_I_Become_a_Professional_Tour_Guide.html
• ↑ https://savingplaces.org/stories/10-tuesday-tips-good-tour-guide#.WV-TudPytol

About This Article

If you want to become a tour guide, you should research opportunities in your area by searching online and visiting attractions where you might want to work. Depending on your city, you may need to pass an exam, so check out tour guide associations’ websites and search online to see if there are licensure requirements. If you can, take classes relevant to your field or class, or even pursue a degree in hospitality and tourism. If you can't go to school, apply to tour guide jobs that provide training. For more information about the application process and what you can expect as a tour guide, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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• Travel Guide

How To Be A Successful Tour Guide

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Jenelle Speck

• Plan Your Trip
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Introduction

Being a tour guide can be an incredibly rewarding and exciting profession. It allows you to share your passion for travel and adventure with others while immersing yourself in different cultures and exploring new destinations. Whether you’re leading a group trek through the Amazon rainforest or guiding tourists through the ancient ruins of Rome, being a successful tour guide requires a combination of knowledge, skills, and a genuine love for adventure.

In this article, we will discuss the essential requirements and qualifications needed to excel as a tour guide. We’ll explore the importance of researching and planning captivating tours, as well as the effective communication skills necessary to engage and connect with your guests. Additionally, we’ll delve into the art of building rapport with your guests, handling difficult situations, and ensuring their safety and satisfaction throughout the entire journey.

To be a successful tour guide, it’s crucial to maintain professionalism and adhere to ethical standards. We’ll provide insights on how to continuously enhance your knowledge and expertise to stay ahead in the ever-evolving travel industry. Lastly, we’ll touch on the importance of marketing and promoting your tours to attract new clients and grow your business.

Whether you’re a seasoned tour guide looking to refine your skills or someone considering a career in adventure tourism, this article will provide valuable information and tips to help you become a successful tour guide, delivering memorable experiences to your guests.

Requirements and Qualifications

Becoming a tour guide requires a combination of skills, qualifications, and personal attributes. While there may not be any set criteria or formal education requirements, possessing certain qualities can greatly enhance your chances of success. Here are some of the key requirements and qualifications to consider:

• Passion for Adventure: A deep love for travel, exploration, and adventure is the foundation of being a successful tour guide. Your enthusiasm will be contagious and inspire your guests to fully embrace the experience.
• Knowledge and Expertise: A comprehensive understanding of the destination you are guiding in is crucial. This includes history, culture, geography, local customs, and attractions. Continuously expand your knowledge through research and firsthand experiences.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills are essential for delivering engaging tours. From clear and concise explanations to storytelling, your ability to captivate and connect with your guests is paramount.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in the language(s) spoken by your guests is highly advantageous. If you plan to lead tours internationally, consider learning popular languages like English, Spanish, or Mandarin.
• Physical Fitness: Tour guiding often involves physical activities like hiking, walking, or cycling. Being physically fit allows you to endure the demands of the job and provide assistance if needed.
• Organizational Skills: Planning and coordinating tours require excellent organizational skills. From managing logistics to creating detailed itineraries, staying organized ensures smooth and enjoyable experiences for your guests.
• Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport and creating a positive rapport with your guests is crucial. The ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and make them feel comfortable is a valuable asset.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: As a tour guide, you may encounter unexpected situations or challenges. Quick thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving skills will help you handle such situations with ease and maintain guest satisfaction.

While academic qualifications may not be mandatory, pursuing relevant courses or certifications in tourism, hospitality, or outdoor activities can enhance your credibility. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships, volunteering, or working as an assistant guide can provide valuable insights and practical skills.

By possessing these requirements and qualifications, you will be well-prepared to embark on a successful career as a tour guide, delivering unforgettable experiences to your guests.

Researching and Planning

One of the most critical aspects of being a tour guide is the ability to research and plan captivating and well-organized tours. Your guests rely on you to provide them with a seamless and unforgettable experience. Here are some essential steps to follow when researching and planning your tours:

• Destination Familiarization: Familiarize yourself with the destination you will be guiding in. Research its history, culture, attractions, and hidden gems. Get to know the local customs, traditions, and etiquettes to ensure a respectful and immersive experience for your guests.
• Understanding Your Audience: Determine the demographics, interests, and preferences of your target audience. Will your guests be adventure enthusiasts, history buffs, or nature lovers? Tailor your tours accordingly to provide a personalized and engaging experience.
• Selecting Key Sites and Activities: Identify the must-see sites and attractions in the destination. Consider both popular landmarks and off-the-beaten-path locations to provide a well-rounded experience. Research and select exciting activities and experiences that align with your guests’ interests.
• Creating a Detailed Itinerary: Craft a detailed itinerary that outlines the day-to-day activities, including transportation, accommodations, meal options, and specific timeframes for each activity. Build in flexibility for unexpected changes or additional opportunities that may arise.
• Ensuring Safety and Accessibility: Prioritize the safety and accessibility of your tours. Research hazard-prone areas, weather conditions, and any potential health risks. Account for the physical abilities and limitations of your guests, providing suitable alternatives or adjustments when necessary.
• Engaging Guides and Experts: Connect with local guides or experts who can provide unique insights and enhance your guests’ experience. Collaborating with knowledgeable individuals adds depth and authenticity to your tours.
• Considering Logistics and Timing: Pay attention to logistical aspects, such as transportation arrangements, ticket bookings, and crowd management. Plan your tours to avoid peak tourist seasons or crowded times to ensure a more enjoyable and comfortable experience for your guests.

Remember to continuously update your knowledge by staying informed about current events, new attractions, and changing regulations. Embrace feedback from previous tours to refine and improve your planning process. By conducting thorough research and careful planning, you can create tours that leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Creating Engaging Tours

As a tour guide, it is your responsibility to create engaging and immersive experiences for your guests. By curating tours that leave a lasting impression, you can ensure their satisfaction and increase the likelihood of them recommending your services. Here are some tips to help you create captivating and memorable tours:

• Storytelling: Narrate captivating stories and anecdotes about the destination and its attractions. Make history come alive, add local legends, or share personal experiences to engage your guests emotionally and intellectually.
• Interactive Experiences: Provide opportunities for your guests to actively participate and engage with the destination. Incorporate interactive elements like hands-on activities, tastings, or cultural demonstrations to create a deeper connection and understanding.
• Sensory Experiences: Appeal to your guests’ senses by highlighting the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of the destination. Encourage them to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and environment.
• Variety of Activities: Offer a variety of activities to cater to different interests and preferences. Whether it’s hiking, biking, exploring historical sites, or indulging in culinary delights, provide a diverse range of experiences to appeal to a broader audience.
• Flexibility and Spontaneity: While it’s essential to have a well-structured itinerary, leave room for flexibility and spontaneity. Embrace unexpected opportunities or interests that arise during the tour and adapt your plans accordingly to provide a memorable and personalized experience.
• Engaging with Locals: Encourage interactions between your guests and the local community. Arrange visits to local markets, workshops, or community initiatives where they can engage with locals, learn about their daily lives, and support local businesses.
• Unveiling Hidden Gems: Go beyond the typical tourist hotspots and unveil hidden gems that showcase the destination’s unique charm and character. Whether it’s a secluded beach, a secret viewpoint, or a lesser-known historical site, surprise your guests with hidden treasures.
• Share Insider Tips: Provide insider tips and recommendations to make your guests’ experience even more enriching. Share your favorite local restaurants, shops, or lesser-known trails, allowing them to discover the destination like a local.

Remember, the key to creating engaging tours is to cater to your guests’ interests, evoke their curiosity, and create a sense of wonder and excitement. By incorporating storytelling, interactive experiences, and a variety of activities, you can create tours that leave a lasting impact and keep your guests coming back for more unforgettable adventures.

Effective Communication Skills

As a tour guide, effective communication is the key to engaging and connecting with your guests. It allows you to share information, convey your passion for the destination, and create an enjoyable and informative experience. Here are some essential communication skills to master:

• Clarity and Enunciation: Speak clearly and enunciate your words to ensure that your guests can understand you easily. Use simple language and avoid jargon or complex terminology that may be unfamiliar to your audience.
• Active Listening: Practice active listening by giving your full attention to your guests. Encourage them to ask questions or share their thoughts and opinions and respond attentively. This helps create a positive and interactive atmosphere.
• Body Language: Pay attention to your body language, as it can greatly impact how your message is received. Maintain an open and welcoming posture, use appropriate gestures, and make eye contact to establish a connection with your guests.
• Use of Visuals and Props: Support your verbal communication with visual aids and props. Maps, photos, or physical objects can enhance understanding and make your explanations more engaging and memorable.
• Adaptability: Adapt your communication style to suit the needs of your guests. Consider their language proficiency, cultural background, and any accessibility requirements. Ensure that everyone can fully engage and understand the information you are sharing.
• Personalization: Tailor your communication to your audience by using personal anecdotes, addressing individuals by name, or referring to their interests. This personal touch creates a connection and makes the experience more memorable.
• Storytelling Skills: Master the art of storytelling to captivate your guests’ attention. Use vivid descriptions, emotions, and suspense to bring the destination to life and create a memorable experience.
• Engage with Humor: Incorporate humor into your communication to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Light-hearted jokes or funny anecdotes can help break the ice, maintain interest, and foster a positive connection with your guests.

Remember to gauge your guests’ engagement and adjust your communication as needed. Ask for feedback and encourage them to share their thoughts and questions throughout the tour. By honing your communication skills, you can ensure a memorable and engaging experience for your guests, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the destination and their time with you.

Building Rapport with Guests

Building a strong rapport with your guests is essential for creating a positive and memorable experience. When guests feel comfortable and connected with their tour guide, they are more likely to engage, ask questions, and fully embrace the journey. Here are some tips to help you build rapport with your guests:

• Warm Welcome: Start the tour with a warm and friendly greeting. Make eye contact, smile, and introduce yourself to create a welcoming atmosphere from the very beginning.
• Active Engagement: Engage with your guests throughout the tour by asking open-ended questions, encouraging their participation, and actively listening to their responses. This shows genuine interest and makes them feel valued.
• Personalize the Experience: Take the time to learn your guests’ names and use them during interactions. Remember their interests or special occasions they may be celebrating. Personalizing the experience makes them feel special and acknowledged.
• Share Personal Stories: Share personal anecdotes or experiences related to the destination or the tour activities. This creates a connection and allows guests to see you as not just a guide but also a fellow traveler.
• Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Show empathy by understanding and addressing your guests’ needs and concerns. Be attentive to their emotions and adapt your approach accordingly. This helps create a comfortable and supportive environment for open communication.
• Respect Cultural Differences: Be mindful of the cultural diversity within your group. Respect different beliefs, customs, and values, and encourage guests to share their own cultural backgrounds to foster a sense of inclusivity and appreciation.
• Be Approachable: Be approachable and accessible to your guests. Encourage them to ask questions, seek guidance, or share their thoughts and experiences. Showing a willingness to interact and help creates a welcoming and supportive environment.
• Show Genuine Enthusiasm: Express your passion and enthusiasm for the destination and the tour activities. Your genuine excitement will be contagious and inspire guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Remain flexible and adaptable to meet the individual needs and preferences of your guests. Be open to suggestions, adjust the pace if necessary, and accommodate reasonable requests to ensure their comfort and satisfaction.

Remember, building rapport requires genuine interest, active engagement, and a willingness to connect with your guests on a personal level. By establishing a strong rapport, you create a trusting and enjoyable atmosphere that enhances the overall tour experience for everyone involved.

Handling Difficult Situations

As a tour guide, it is essential to be prepared for and effectively handle difficult situations that may arise during your tours. Whether it’s a sudden change in weather, a medical emergency, or guest dissatisfaction, your ability to stay calm, proactive, and empathetic is crucial. Here are some tips for effectively handling difficult situations:

• Remain Calm and Composed: Stay calm and composed, even in challenging situations. Your guests will look to you for guidance and reassurance, so maintaining a calm demeanor helps instill confidence and minimize panic.
• Assess the Situation: Quickly assess the situation and prioritize the safety and well-being of your guests. Identify any immediate risks or concerns and take necessary steps to address them promptly.
• Communicate Clearly: Effectively communicate with your guests, providing clear instructions and information about the situation at hand. Keep them informed of any changes, updates, or alternative plans, ensuring they feel informed and involved.
• Show Empathy and Support: Display empathy and understanding towards your guests’ concerns or discomfort. Listen attentively, acknowledge their feelings, and address their needs to the best of your ability. Offer support and reassurance throughout the situation.
• Follow Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and protocols specific to the destination or activity. This includes knowing the location of emergency services, medical facilities, and evacuation routes.
• Seek Expert Advice if Needed: If the situation requires specialized knowledge or assistance, seek advice from local authorities, medical professionals, or relevant experts. Act promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of your guests.
• Maintain Open Communication: Encourage guests to voice their concerns or questions openly. Listen attentively, respond empathetically, and address their concerns transparently. Open communication helps build trust and allows for timely resolution of issues.
• Provide Alternative Options: In case of unexpected changes or disruptions, offer alternative options or activities to make up for any inconvenience. This demonstrates your commitment to ensuring your guests have a satisfactory experience, even in challenging circumstances.
• Document and Report: Keep a record of any incidents, complaints, or feedback received during the tour. This information will be valuable for improving future tours and providing insights to your organization, if applicable.
• Learn from the Experience: Reflect on difficult situations and learn from them to enhance your future tour planning and management. Evaluate what worked well and identify areas for improvement, ensuring that you are better prepared for similar situations in the future.

Remember, while handling difficult situations can be challenging, your ability to remain calm, communicate effectively, and prioritize the safety and well-being of your guests is vital. By demonstrating empathy, proactivity, and professionalism, you can navigate through challenging circumstances and ensure a positive experience for your guests.

Ensuring Guest Safety and Satisfaction

As a tour guide, the safety and satisfaction of your guests should always be a top priority. By implementing proactive measures and creating a positive environment, you can ensure that your guests have a safe and satisfying experience. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Thorough Risk Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment before each tour to identify potential hazards and develop appropriate safety measures. Consider factors such as weather conditions, terrain, activities, and the physical capabilities of your guests.
• Provide Safety Briefings: Start each tour with a safety briefing to educate your guests about any potential risks, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Make sure they know how to use any equipment provided and encourage them to ask questions or express any concerns.
• First Aid and Emergency Preparedness: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and be trained in basic first aid techniques. Familiarize yourself with the nearest medical facilities and emergency services in the area. Be prepared to handle common emergencies and provide appropriate assistance.
• Regular Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment used during the tour, such as hiking gear, vehicles, or water sports equipment. Ensuring they are in good working condition reduces the risk of accidents and malfunctions.
• Monitor Weather and Environmental Conditions: Stay informed about weather forecasts and environmental conditions. Modify plans if necessary to avoid exposure to extreme weather or unsafe conditions. Have a backup plan in place for unexpected changes.
• Proactive Communication: Keep your guests informed about any changes to the itinerary, safety updates, or relevant information throughout the tour. Maintain clear and open communication channels, allowing your guests to raise any concerns or ask questions at any time.
• Encourage Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from your guests to understand their needs, preferences, and concerns. Actively address any feedback received and use it to improve future tours and tailor the experience to meet their expectations.
• Ensure Accessibility: Accommodate the accessibility needs of your guests, such as mobility restrictions or dietary requirements. Modify activities or provide suitable alternatives to ensure that everyone can participate and feel included.
• Create a Positive Environment: Foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere where all guests feel welcomed and respected. Encourage interaction and mutual respect among the group, creating a supportive environment for everyone to thrive.
• Exceed Expectations: Strive to exceed your guests’ expectations by going the extra mile. Surprise them with little touches, personalized gestures, or unexpected experiences to create a lasting impression of satisfaction and delight.

Remember, ensuring guest safety and satisfaction requires careful planning, effective communication, and a responsive approach. By taking proactive measures, prioritizing their well-being, and aiming to exceed their expectations, you can provide a exceptional experience that leaves your guests happy, fulfilled, and eager to recommend your services.

Maintaining Professionalism and Ethics

As a tour guide, maintaining professionalism and ethical standards is crucial for building trust with your guests and ensuring a positive experience. Upholding a high level of professionalism and ethical conduct not only reflects positively on you but also contributes to the reputation of the entire tourism industry. Here are some key principles to guide your behavior:

• Expertise and Knowledge: Continuously update and expand your knowledge about the destinations you guide in, including history, culture, and current affairs. Be well-informed and able to provide accurate and insightful information to your guests.
• Respect for Cultural Sensitivities: Show respect for the culture, customs, and traditions of the destinations you operate in. Promote responsible tourism practices that preserve and celebrate the local heritage, environment, and communities.
• Professional Appearance and Conduct: Present yourself in a professional manner by dressing appropriately and maintaining a neat appearance. Demonstrate professional behavior by being punctual, attentive, and responsive to your guests’ needs.
• Confidentiality: Respect the privacy and confidentiality of your guests. Do not disclose personal or sensitive information without proper consent. Safeguard any information obtained during the tour to maintain confidentiality and trust.
• Honesty and Integrity: Be honest and transparent in your interactions with guests. Provide accurate information, including pricing, expectations, and potential risks. Do not engage in misleading practices or make false claims that may compromise guest trust.
• Empathy and Inclusivity: Treat all guests with respect, regardless of their background, nationality, or beliefs. Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment, ensuring that everyone feels valued and included.
• Conflict Resolution: Handle conflicts or disagreements with professionalism and diplomacy. Listen to all parties involved, seek understanding, and work towards a fair resolution. Maintain composure and remain neutral when mediating disputes.
• Environmental Responsibility: Be mindful of the impact your tours may have on the environment. Promote sustainable practices such as reducing waste, respecting wildlife and natural habitats, and encouraging responsible behaviors among your guests.
• Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and mistakes. Address any guest concerns or complaints promptly and professionally. Learn from feedback and strive to continuously improve as a tour guide.
• Compliance with Legal and Ethical Standards: Familiarize yourself with and adhere to local laws, regulations, and industry guidelines. Avoid engaging in any illegal or unethical activities that could tarnish your reputation and that of the tourism industry.

Maintaining professionalism and ethics ensures that you provide a trustworthy and reputable service. By practicing these principles, you not only enhance the guest experience but also contribute to the sustainable development of the tourism industry.

Enhancing Knowledge and Expertise

As a tour guide, continuously enhancing your knowledge and expertise is crucial for staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of adventure tourism. By deepening your understanding of destinations, honing your skills, and staying up-to-date with industry trends, you can provide a higher level of service and enrich the experiences of your guests. Here are some strategies to enhance your knowledge and expertise:

• Continual Learning: Embrace a lifelong learning mindset by seeking opportunities to expand your knowledge. Read books, articles, and travel guides about the destinations you guide in. Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences to stay informed about the latest industry developments.
• Destination Familiarization: Explore your guiding destinations extensively. Visit different sites, engage with locals, and immerse yourself in the culture. This firsthand experience will not only deepen your knowledge but also allow you to share enriching stories and insights with your guests.
• Seek Feedback from Guests: Regularly seek feedback from your guests to understand their perspectives and areas for improvement. Use their insights to address any shortcomings and refine your guiding techniques. Actively engage in conversations with your guests to learn from their experiences and gather valuable feedback.
• Network and Collaborate: Connect with other tour guides, travel professionals, and industry experts. Join professional associations or online communities to exchange ideas, insights, and best practices. Collaborate with fellow guides on joint projects or share knowledge through mentorship programs.
• Develop Specialized Skills: Consider developing specialized skills or expertise in specific areas of interest. This could include gaining certifications in wildlife conservation, cultural heritage, or adventure activities. This specialized knowledge will enhance the uniqueness and quality of your tours.
• Technology and Digital Skills: Embrace technology and develop digital skills relevant to your role. Utilize online resources, apps, and platforms to enhance your guiding capabilities. Stay updated with social media trends to effectively market and promote your tours to a wider audience.
• Language Acquisition: Learn additional languages to expand your communication capabilities with a wider range of guests. Being able to speak the language of your guests builds rapport and allows for a more immersive experience.
• Keep Up with Industry News: Stay informed about the latest industry news, travel trends, and sustainability initiatives. Subscribe to industry publications, follow reputable blogs, and engage with industry influencers and experts on social media platforms.
• Engage in Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in cultural exchange opportunities to gain firsthand knowledge about different cultures, traditions, and customs. This can be achieved through volunteer work, homestays, or participating in local community activities.
• Reflect and Evaluate: Set aside time for self-reflection and evaluation. Assess your strengths and areas for improvement as a guide. Regularly reassess and update your tour itineraries, activities, and delivery techniques to ensure they meet the changing needs and expectations of your guests.

Remember, the pursuit of knowledge and expertise is a lifelong journey. By embracing continuous learning, seeking feedback, and connecting with others in the industry, you can enhance your guiding skills and provide exceptional experiences for your guests.

Marketing and Promoting Your Tours

Effective marketing and promotion are essential for attracting clients and growing your tour guiding business. By utilizing various marketing strategies and channels, you can reach a broader audience and showcase the unique experiences you offer. Here are some key tips for marketing and promoting your tours:

• Create a Compelling Website: Develop a professional website that showcases your tours, highlights your expertise, and provides easy access to information and booking options. Ensure that your website is visually appealing, mobile-friendly, and optimized for search engines.
• Utilize Social Media: Leverage social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to promote your tours. Share engaging content, including stunning photos, videos, and captivating stories. Interact with your audience, respond to comments, and use relevant hashtags to increase visibility.
• Partner with Travel Agencies and Hotels: Collaborate with local travel agencies, hotels, and accommodations to establish mutually beneficial partnerships. Provide them with detailed information about your tours and offer commission-based referrals to attract potential clients.
• Create Compelling Content: Publish informative and engaging content relevant to your tours on your website, blog, or social media platforms. This can include destination guides, travel tips, and personal stories that highlight the unique experiences you offer. Optimize your content with relevant keywords to improve search engine visibility.
• Offer Special Promotions and Packages: Create exclusive promotions, discounts, or package deals to attract new clients or encourage repeat bookings. Collaborate with local businesses to offer unique add-ons or experiences as part of your tours.
• Collect and Showcase Testimonials: Encourage your satisfied guests to provide testimonials and reviews of their experience. Display these testimonials on your website and social media platforms to build trust and credibility with prospective clients.
• Attend Travel Exhibitions and Events: Participate in travel exhibitions, fairs, and conferences to showcase your tours and network with potential clients and industry professionals. Distribute brochures, business cards, and promotional materials to leave a lasting impression.
• Build Relationships with Travel Bloggers and Influencers: Collaborate with travel bloggers, influencers, and vloggers who align with your target audience. Offer them complimentary experiences in exchange for honest reviews, social media exposure, or collaborative content creation.
• Optimize for Search Engines: Implement search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to improve your website’s visibility in search engine results. Research relevant keywords and incorporate them into your website content, meta tags, and headlines.
• Provide Excellent Customer Service: Deliver exceptional customer service throughout the entire guest experience. Respond to inquiries promptly, provide detailed information, and be attentive to guest needs. Word-of-mouth referrals and positive reviews can be powerful marketing tools.

Remember, marketing and promoting your tours require a multi-channel approach. Continuously assess the effectiveness of your marketing efforts, monitor analytics, and adjust your strategies accordingly. With a targeted marketing plan, you can attract more clients and position yourself as a trusted and sought-after tour guide in the industry.

Becoming a successful tour guide in the adventure tourism industry requires a combination of knowledge, skills, and a genuine passion for travel and exploration. By meeting the requirements and qualifications, researching and planning captivating tours, effectively communicating with guests, and building rapport with them, you can ensure memorable experiences. Handling difficult situations, prioritizing guest safety and satisfaction, maintaining professionalism and ethical standards, enhancing your knowledge and expertise, and implementing effective marketing strategies are all integral to your success as a tour guide.

Remember that continuous learning, adaptability, and a commitment to providing exceptional service are key. Embrace new technologies, stay informed about industry trends, and constantly seek to enhance your knowledge and skills. By creating engaging tours, fostering positive connections with guests, and promoting your services effectively, you can attract clients and build a strong reputation within the industry. Through professionalism, ethical conduct, and a genuine love for adventure, you can create unforgettable experiences and become a sought-after tour guide.

So, embark on this exciting journey with a mindset of constant improvement and a dedication to delivering exceptional adventures. As you guide your guests through remarkable destinations, remember that you have the power to inspire, educate, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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13 Tips To Be a Better Tour Guide

Being a tour guide is a fun, exciting, and rewarding job. You spend your days sharing your knowledge and chatting with guests. 

While you will improve your skills naturally with every tour you provide, there are some things you can to more proactive build your skills. 

In this post, we’re sharing 13 tips to help you be a better tour guide, including: 

What Are the Key Job Responsibilities for a Tour Guide?

Tour guides have to manage various responsibilities throughout their day to provide memorable experiences for guests. Successful tour guides enjoy working with people, are excellent storytellers, and solve problems independently. 

Tour guides have to manage multiple responsibilities throughout their day, including:

• Greeting visitors and interacting with them before the start of the tour
• Letting participants know about the tour’s itinerary and rules
• Planning and managing the itinerary 
• Learning and memorizing interesting details and facts and turning them into stories 
• Having a strong understanding of your tour’s layout and location 
• Setting up and maintain equipment before the start of a tour if necessary
• Being prepared in case of an emergency
• Ensuring guests remain safe and follow all proper protocols  

13 Top Tips To Be a Better Tour Guide

Successful tour guides continuously build and improve their skills throughout their careers to provide memorable and engaging experiences. Learning new information and skills also helps keep the tours and experiences you deliver engaging and fresh for you. Your enthusiasm and enjoyment will show to guests and help capture their attention.

So whether you’re just starting out as a tour guide or have been working in the field for a while, here are 13 ways you can continue to build your skills as a tour guide. 

1. Skip lengthy introductions or setups at the beginning of the tour

Introductions to the tour and a review of rules can help provide structure and context for your guests. That said, you don’t want the introduction information to go on so long that you lose your guests’ attention. 

When planning what to say at the start of the tour, look for ways to provide the necessary information while keeping guests engaged and maintaining their enthusiasm for the tour or activity.  

Depending on the type of tour you provide, you may have to first cover safety measures before moving visitors to a location, so use your judgment. If you’re unsure whether your introduction is too long, consider asking a fellow guide to listen to your opening. They can provide you with feedback on what it’s like from a visitor’s perspective.

2. Bring information to life through a story

People love stories. Your guests are more likely to remember, understand, and appreciate the information you share when you can tell it through a story. The stories can be historical or contemporary. This strategy increases the likelihood that guests will ask questions and engage with you, making the experience more fun for everyone.

You don’t have to tell everything as a story, but sprinkle them in throughout the tour to maintain everyone’s attention. If you feel uncomfortable telling stories, you can build your storytelling skills. You can listen to audiobooks or podcasts of famous or popular storytellers or take a public speaking course.

3. Face guests when sharing information

When you’re discussing something, it’s natural to point and look at the object. As a tour guide, you’ll engage your audience better by facing them. This strategy allows them to see your gestures and hear you better. 

You can teach yourself to turn toward the group. To help learn this habit, consider identifying one person in the group that you will look at when you first start talking. To ensure the whole group feels engaged, be sure to move your gaze to other visitors soon after you start talking.

This strategy provides you with a consistent cue to help you develop the habit of turning towards the group when you start talking. After a while, you’ll naturally turn toward the group when you’re giving your tours. 

4. You don’t have to know everything

As a tour guide, you purposefully try to learn everything you can about the locations on your tour. That said, you don’t have to know everything. You may have a guest who has unique expertise or insider’s experience. Let them share with the group. Everyone will have a richer experience, and you can potentially incorporate this information into future tours. 

5. Avoid exaggerating information

You want your tours exciting and engaging, but you also want to be known as a credible and knowledgeable expert. Therefore, resist the urge to exaggerate information. Your guests won’t trust what you say or recommend the tour if they discover you’ve provided inaccurate details or facts. 

Sometimes exaggeration can sneak in when telling stories, so make sure your stories are based on facts and verifiable information. 

6. Provide anecdotes when possible

Telling personal anecdotes can provide a special touch and experience for your guests. These can make the tour more engaging and help you connect with visitors. 

While you can plan ahead of time what anecdotes you will tell, being able to spontaneously provide anecdotes and insights tailored to the group can help enhance the overall experience. You can take a local improv class to help practice this skill.

7. Be punctual (and ideally early)

When people are on vacation, they often have carefully orchestrated plans. If one part starts late or goes too long, they may miss another planned opportunity. Your guests will appreciate you starting and ending your tours on time. Being punctual will help build their confidence in you as a professional and expert. 

When it’s possible, try to arrive early for tours. This strategy will give you time to get to know participants before the tour starts. This strategy helps you build rapport and start learning what types of information they want so you can tailor the experience to their needs. You’ll also be able to answer any questions people have about the area before the tour begins. 

8. Be attentive to guests’ needs 

Being attentive to your guests’ needs is about more than just guiding them from one point to another. It’s about creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience. For instance, if you notice guests looking tired, suggest a short break or a slower pace. If a particular topic sparks interest, consider diving deeper into that subject. This adaptability shows that you’re not just following a script but are genuinely committed to providing a fulfilling experience.

Moreover, being attentive means being prepared to answer questions or provide solutions to unexpected issues. Whether it’s a question about local dining options or needing assistance with accessibility, your readiness to help can significantly enhance guest experience. 

9. Be passionate 

Your enthusiasm and passion for the subject matter are infectious and can enhance the tour experience. When you speak about the history, culture, or landmarks with genuine excitement, it engages your guests and makes the information more compelling. This enthusiasm can transform an effective tour guide into a truly 5-star tour guide.  

However, it’s important to balance your enthusiasm with the ability to read your audience. Some guests may prefer a more subdued approach, while others might enjoy high energy. Tailoring your enthusiasm to suit the group’s dynamics is key. 

10. Use humor 

A well-timed joke or a witty remark can lighten the mood and enhance the overall experience. It helps in breaking the ice and making even the most difficult customers feel more comfortable. However, it’s crucial to exercise guest discretion. Tailor your humor to the audience and avoid jokes that could be misunderstood or that touch on sensitive topics. The goal is to add a light-hearted touch to your tour, not to make anyone uncomfortable. 

11. Offer personal recommendations

Take a nod from hotel concierges by offering personal recommendations towards the end of the tour. This adds a special touch to the experience. Sharing your favorite local spots, eateries, or hidden gems provide guests with insider knowledge they might not find in guidebooks. These recommendations should be tailored to the interests of the group and can range from the best places to catch a sunset, to a local café known for its specialty dishes.

12. Invite feedback and follow-up

Inviting feedback at the end of the tour is a great way to show that you value your guests’ opinions and are committed to improving your service. Encourage them to share their thoughts and suggestions. This feedback can be invaluable in refining your tours and making them more enjoyable for future guests.

Additionally, offering to stay in touch for any further questions or recommendations can leave a positive lasting impression. It shows that you’re not just interested in providing a service but are genuinely invested in their experience. This openness to feedback and follow-up can lead to more positive reviews and recommendations, which are essential for a successful tour guiding career.

13. End with a memorable conclusion

Summarize the key points of the tour and leave your guests with a final thought, story, or anecdote that encapsulates the essence of the experience. This could be a poignant story, a surprising fact, or a humorous observation. A strong conclusion ties the entire tour together and gives your guests something to remember and talk about long after the tour has ended.

Moreover, a memorable conclusion is an opportunity to not only thank your guests, but it gives you an easy opportunity to ask for a review. This can not only increase the chance that you’ll get a nice tip but you can also wind up with more customers from the 5-star reviews they leave.  

In sum, being a tour guide is a fun and interesting job that allows you to interact with various people. Like many professions, the more you practice and work on building your skills, the better everyone’s experience, including yourself.  

Incorporating these strategies and tips can help you elevate your tour from good to great, making your visitors more likely to tell others about your tours.

Pro Tip: Not a customer but interested in checking out Xola? Explore all of the features including guide management.

Writer Jessica Malnik

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in USA

Find the right fully guided tour for you in USA. There are 1063 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 29 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit USA.

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250+ fully guided tour packages in usa with 19,012 reviews.

• Hiking & Trekking

California National Park Discovery

the tour itself was amazing. The national parks do not disappoint. The travel accomodations were very cramped and uncomfortable. I am only 5 foot tall and I was cramped in this 14 passenger van. Food opportunities were limited.

• Mountain Hikes

7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

An epic, whirlwind adventure! What an amazing trip! Our guide was Dylan and he was terrific. He was smart, informative, and funny. He customized our week based on our group - making sure we all had a say and got to experience these magical places in our own ways as much as reasonably possible. He even saved someone’s life from another van by doing the Heimlich Maneuver! We did the camping option. We had envisioned relaxing evenings by the campfire but that only happened a couple of times. Usually we were scrambling to set up camp in the dark and then get packed and ready to roll out with the sunrise so we could pack in as much adventure as possible. So many incredible moments along the journey - our van fam was wonderful, pizza at sunset on the Grand Canyon’s south rim, a night hike in Aches with shooting stars and the Milky Way, s’mores on our last night with the whole group, and Dylan’s playlists for every occasion… we came home exhausted and happy, with multiple bucket list items checked off. Highly recommend!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Private Tour- 7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Loved this trip, got to meet some awesome people and even got to do some hikes that weren't on the itinerary but were on my bucket list. All in all I couldn't of asked for a better trip

USA Road Trip — Yosemite Hiking & Cali Surfing

• Christmas & New Year

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

This trip was amazing. This was a bucket list trip for my daughter and I. From the beginning when we met our tour guide, Dave showater to the end. Dave was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and did fantastic driving and picked fantastic restaurants along the way. I would highly recommend this trip. The parks were excellent.

Best of Utah & Arizona National Parks

Excellent tout, with a nice group and an excellent guide.

Western USA National Parks Loop

One of the best group trips I have ever been on. Rene was absolutely fantastic! Zion national park, Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon are absolutely amazing places to visit. Photos can not do justice to the sheer magnificent beauty. Our group was amazing, friendly, fun, always on time and ages 30s-60s. The accommodations were sufficient and the hikes were manageable even for someone like myself who is not the most physically fit. I would suggest arriving a day or 2 early in Vegas or staying the night you return to get the most out of the experience. The Hoover dam is not included but there are short day trips from Vegas that cover this area which is definitely worthwhile. The days were long but there was sufficient rest at night to cope with some of the early morning wake up times. Which was WELL worth it!! Seeing the Grand Canyon at sunset was a sight I will never forget. If I can give 10 stars I would. This was my first intrepid trip and I have to say it won’t be the last. Even though we were unable to kayak lake Powell because time of year, we saw antelope canyon which was quite spectacular. Monument valley was also an experience to remember. If you have the opportunity to go, do it! You won’t regret one minute!

Yellowstone & Rocky Mountain Explorer

5 STARS!! We had a fantastic 7 day trip to Yellowstone, Grand Tetons & Bryce. Our guide was informative and super friendly. The campsites had great views and overall, the trip was spectacular! Highly recommend Bindlestiff Tours!!

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

I would like to add that the communication between tour radar and us was poor. No notice of change of first night hotel was passed on to us and the start n finish dates are not discussed AT all. It is really a 6 day tour not 8 day tour as advertised. Other than that Southwest Tours were fantastic it was tour radar that let us down.

• Sightseeing

Grand Canyon and More 3 day tour

See a lot in a short time! Really good tour, you see a lot of very cool places in a short time! Great diversity of experiences from jeep tours to hikes to helicopter rides! Fair warning, its not for the faint of heart, its fast paced. But with that said it is great it you want to get out west and do not have a ton of time!

• Photography
• Walking Adventure

Yellowstone / Grand Teton 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

Great trip. Fantastic Guide (Daniel). Just the right size (9 passengers), and length of time (4 days). Saw lots animals and scenery. Snow added charm. Daniel was expert at finding wildlife snd very knowledgeable. We had a great time. Highly recommend Brush Buck

Hike Alaska: Glaciers and Denali

Exceeded expectations, everything was smooth. Great guide.

Alaska Journey National Geographic Journeys

Good time with lots of riding in the van going to interesting places

Alaska Kenai Adventure 9 Days

The moment I first saw the blue converted school bus on the website, I knew this was exactly for me. A couple of previous experiences have taught me that if you encounter an opportunity like traveling around Alaska in a converted school bus, do not hesitate to take it! It is not just about the destination but also the journey. I will always cherish the seemingly all-too-brief time camping in the Kenai Peninsula. As it was in August, the weather was at first a tad disagreeable, but it only made it sweeter when it finally yielded to some beautiful days. And thus, a cascade of lovely memories: the fragrant wildflowers blanketing a mountainside while hiking to Exit Glacier, eating the best rockfish tacos of my life in Seward, closing down the Salty Dawg Saloon in Homer with new friends from the Infinite group, observing in awe bears in Katmai National Park, beachside camping on Homer Spit, enjoying a dinner of freshly caught halibut at sunset on Hesketh Island, sea kayaking in Kachemak Bay, watching orcas breaching at dusk, huddling around a campfire making s’mores. We had fantastic guides in Natalie, Dave, and Carolina (and little Tayo). They worked very hard to accommodate us, from cooking breakfast early in the morning to organizing activities to always having campfire wood. If you can secure a spot with their company, then you are in for a memorable adventure! The blue school bus brought together a group of like-minded individuals who truly love to travel. There are many ways to see Alaska, but this is truly one of a kind.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in USA

We thoroughly enjoyed the 7-day tour of the US southwest . We love the destinations included in the tour, every place we visited is on our bucket list. I wanted to pinch myself every day that I visited those iconic and beautiful places as shown in my photos below. We enjoyed all the extra, optional experiences that were suggested by the tour guide. They added more fun to the tour. The Hummer tour in Moab, Utah was one of the optional experiences and it was a blast! Not only it’s fun, you get to see the amazing scenery during the sunset. One previous review mentioned he or she was forced to participate in the Navajo taco dinner in Monument Valley. That comment is not true. You have a choice not to do that and the guide can make a different arrangement for you. The optional Navajo taco dinner is one of the highlights of the tour that we will remember for a long time. It would be a shame not to have this cultural experience when you get to meet Navajo people when you are in the Navajo Nation! Our tour guide, John did a fantastic job. He was full of enthusiasm and energy. He kept the tour well organized and always provided information we needed. We highly recommend the tour.

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

Regions in USA

• Western USA (674)
• Sun Belt (370)
• Southwest USA (361)
• Rocky Mountains (246)
• Four Corners (196)
• Eastern USA (193)
• East Coast USA (145)
• West Coast USA (140)
• California (123)
• Alaska (120)
• Pacific Coast USA (92)
• Southern USA (87)
• Northeast USA (87)
• Southeast USA (79)
• Grand Canyon (72)
• Northern California (71)

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What are the golden rules of tour guiding? 10 tips to help you shine

By Breanna Lawlor

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Most tour and activity providers find themselves embracing a career in the travel industry through an appreciation for certain cultures or destinations. But to be successful in this role, you need to know which tour guide rules to keep in mind.

As a tour guide, you have a profound impact on how a guest interacts with their surroundings. And you also have the power to offer guests a life-changing experience through your charm and wit.

Sure, you don’t have to become the expert on the komodo dragon or shark mating rituals, but does it hurt to have a few fun facts at the ready? 

Nope! 

Ultimately, a skilled tour guide will know when to turn up the charm and dial the facts back to match the bandwidth of their audience. And as a tour guideline, you should adjust your performance based on the feedback and social cues you receive from your audience.

TL; DR: To be a fantastic tour guide, you should be full of enthusiasm, knowledge and kindness.

What are the golden rules of tour guiding

For many, guiding tours is an ideal way to see the world while getting paid to travel.

However, the role of a tour guide can be highly impactful, if you focus on making it fun and entertaining. Not only do you have endless opportunities to meet fascinating people from all over the globe, but you’ll never stop learning. 

It makes sense that some of the best tour guides are hungry to connect with new people and enjoy reciting fun facts about what makes a place special. And whether you’re a pro or just starting out, it helps to know which tour guidelines to follow. 

1. Be present, punctual and full of personality

There are few things worse than a tour guide who isn’t engaging, especially when guests arrive with high expectations. Show a vested interest in your guests during the first meeting — especially if you have a few early bird arrivals.

And since this role is equal parts education and entertainment, people with big personalities tend to do well as tour guides. This is a credit to having the ability to add a little extra zest to an experience.

Personalize the experience

The reason why people still book live tours is that in-person delivery is better than reading a guidebook. Ultimately, you have the power to transform an ordinary encounter into something more memorable. To do this, you’ll want to become a storyteller.

Do you know what’s worse than being a tour guide without a funny bone? Being hard to hear! If guests are straining to follow what you’re saying, they’ll likely tune you out. 

And, even better if you can drum up fodder that travelers will not be able to find in a guidebook. Whether it’s because it’s new, insider knowledge or off-the-cuff — fun facts can send your guests into a fit of laughter and keep them engaged.

2. Know your stuff — as a tour guide rule

What do travelers often rave with tour guides? Approachability and good candour tend to show up in 5-star reviews, highlighting how a good attitude goes a long way.

You’ll need to stay up-to-date on the subject matter because guests are going to expect you to have all of the answers. With that said, you do not need to fib if you receive a curveball question. Instead, invite the audience to chime in if they have an answer or commit to finding out and responding at a later time.

Still, no matter how much you prepare, some travelers will throw some quizzical questions your way. Lean into your ability to charm and dazzle people with your local knowledge to escape these encounters unfazed.

Take time to prepare

Understandably, tour guides should have all of their ducks in a row once the tour starts. Dedicate time to doing a dry-run of your tours in advance to avoid potential hiccups that might pop up en route.

Typically, guides know where they are going, have a good sense of direction, anticipate when local restaurants and popular landmarks will be open and busy while also gauging optimal times for travel overall. 

3. Engage with guests while sharing tour guidelines

Get to know your guests by striking up a conversation. There’s something known as the “third thing”. I learned about it from a brilliant architect friend who shared that wherever two people can find an item or topic they are familiar with, it helps to strike up a conversation. 

In reviews, tour guides who are engaging and entertaining receive high praise. We know that becoming a 5-star tour guide takes work, but the added effort will pay off through reviews and word-of-mouth referrals.

Becoming a skilled communicator

Guests want a tour guide is confident and fun to be around. You’ll want to conduct the tour at a pace and tone that’s easy to follow. What does this sound like?

Use inclusive language to make guests feel welcome. The best way to brush up on your communication skills is to use them on a regular basis. Invite discussion and provide context for your guests to ask questions.

4. Offer helpful and timely insight

When leading a tour group, you’ll likely be commenting on things you’ve seen many times before. Imagine yourself in the shoes of a traveler. 

So while you may find yourself constantly searching for new ways to talk about the same thing, it’s the first time for many — if not all — of your guests. When you share stories or recite unconventional facts, small details like these kick the experience up a notch.

Try changing up your route or focusing on different sensory receptors to offer fresh and fun ways of re-visiting the same places.

You want to create an inclusive guided experience that welcomes all types of travelers — including kids, visitors with mobility challenges and slower-paced adventurers. 

5. Address guests and answer questions

Some travelers might initially be nervous to ask you questions because they will yet to have a rapport with you. 

Think about common questions guests have and aim to proactively address them with your guests. And determine which facts you believe will be most advantageous for guests to know, then share them — openly. 

To combat this, position yourself as a friendly and approachable guide who’s here to do just that — guide their experience. Reiterate how the tour is theirs alone, but your role is to facilitate the best experience possible.

Speak loud and proud

Annunciate. Broadcast. Project. This is not a time to use your library voice. I mean, there’s a balance, but aim to be vocal enough that passersby find themselves eavesdropping on what you’re sharing. 

An added benefit is if your tour heads somewhere quiet, guests will be tuned in to your voice and more likely to lean in if you’ve been using inflection to command their attention.

Aim to be full of charisma

While hard to define — charisma is a core element of becoming a successful tour guide. 

It can be summarized as one part charm, one part knowledge and one part wit with a dash of humour for good measure. 

6. Demonstrate good time-management and organizational skills

Leading by example is one of the most effective ways of gaining the trust of your audience. Sure, you’ll probably contend with a few latecomers on tours — but don’t let this derail the entire group.

For visitors arriving at a new location, they tend to have a lot of questions. On your tour, aim to proactively answer them and allow space to respond to your curious followers. 

To better frame the experience, give your tour a dry-run. Without the pressure of a tour group, you can see when certain dining spots, viewpoints or transportation routes will be busy, and adjust your plans to maximize the visitor experience.

7. Infuse storytelling as part of your tour guide rules

There are plenty of advantages to becoming a skilled storyteller. First, as travelers, we thrive on stories. They help to forge new neural pathways and turn ordinary encounters into something more relatable.

And second, while it can feel intimidating to share personal anecdotes and memories, storytelling elevates the tour for your guests. Plus, you can ad lib and you’ll have guests who are none the wiser.

Peter Syme shares something called the Peak Design Rule , where he suggests tour guides identify elements throughout your tour that is most helpful, entertaining and valuable, and design your tour around that. 

Travelers develop a greater capacity to recount their adventures in a favourable light with personalized tours.

8. Keep things moving

When you step into the role of tour guide, you assume the responsibility of educator and entertainer .

There will be times when you have a restless audience member or guests that tune you out. Don’t panic — instead, aim to keep a consistent pace throughout your tour.

Account for buffer time throughout your route, giving consideration to guests of all ages and mobilities. And once a tour begins — keep that trust going by letting visitors know what to expect next and offering reasons behind each stop you have planned along the route.

9. Offer breaks

If you’re leading a scenic tour, note a few stopping points en route where guests can expect to have a few minutes to snap photos and take in the view. Allow ample time for breaks while on tour. They allow guests to feel refreshed and ready for the next stop on the tour.

In addition, short pauses help guests rest up, so they have the capacity to mentally digest more information.

Bring some snacks along

Instead of waiting until the eleventh hour to lead your guests to a dining location, bring snacks and water as a safety mechanism. This is especially useful for guests traveling with young children. And while it’s not expected, it can absolutely save the day for a family who just needs a little extra support.

Food can act as a bridge between cultures. You’ve probably heard the term “hangry” or been on the receiving end of a guest who’s coping with low blood sugar.

Ultimately, you’ll have some guests who are keen to see the next vantage point and a handful of tour guests that are more inclined to take their time meandering along the route. 

10. Start and end tours on time

There will always be guests who misgauge timing or location and show up late to a tour. And while travelers might visit a location for the first time and find themselves running behind, this should not take away from your fellow guests who arrived on time. 

One thing you should have control over is whether your tour or activity ends on time. Instill a walking pace that accounts for little ones and more mature travelers, by building in some buffer into your schedule. 

This way you can feel good about pausing to talk more in depth throughout your tour. 

Research proves people tend to remember negative experiences more readily than positive encounters.  It could be that guests are hardwired to weigh bad encounters differently than positive ones, but it’s also a way of keeping them safe from repeating the same mistake in the future.   

Helpful tour guide rules to keep in mind

Ideally, you want to create opportunities for guests to feel included and listened to throughout your tour. If it works for your style, ask questions in advance and help them to feel involved in the experience.

But, one thing to keep in mind is that your job isn’t done when the tour ends — you’ll want to bookend the tour for guests with options for learning more along with prompts for a review.

• Guests don’t know what you know — overshare information to keep visitors in the loop
• Include a safety overview whether it’s related to gear, the location or the route
• Provide guidelines for what to expect and how they can expect to interact with you/others
• Let guests know where to find washrooms en route
• Build in buffer timing in case guests are late

As a general tour guide rule, the greater amount a guest pays, the more they will expect from the lead tour guide. You may find that tipping is activity and location-dependant.

But with guests visiting from all over the world, make sure you share how tips indicate that you’ve done a great job and while not required, are greatly appreciated.

Set a tone of curiosity, competency and confidence early on. This way, travelers arriving bright-eyed and bushy-tailed — will be ready to trust you to show them the world.

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10 Best Online Tour Booking Sites To List Your Tours, Activities and Experiences.

When you’re in the business of selling tours, the most important thing to do is get your service seen by the right people. But where and how do you find your audience? Matt Davison of  Travel Tractions gives his insights.

When you’re in the business of selling tours, the most important thing to do is get your service seen by the right people. But where and how do you find your audience? 

Thankfully, the web is already filled with online tour booking sites where tour operators (or  tourpreneurs ) can list and sell their tours. There’s a long list of these places. 

You’ll find area-specific sites, as well as tour websites for specific niches. So where do you start when it comes to Online Tour Booking Sites? 

Running your own tour business is hard, there are a million and one things to do, so it’s important to focus on what works. We’re a big fan of the 80/20 rule, so we’ve handpicked this list offering 10 of the best Online Tour Booking Sites These sites target audiences from around the world and offer the best opportunities to get your tours seen and booked by thousands of people each month.

These sites target audiences from around the world and offer the best opportunities to get your tours seen and booked by thousands of people each month.

These OTAs are not listed in ranking order. You decide which is the best online tour booking site (OTA) for you.

GetYourGuide

The site lists all kinds of tours, from all over the world, from city passes to guided walking tours. 

You do need a legally operating business as well as an insurance policy. It’s free to sign up and list your tours, and commission is only paid on successful bookings. The website has helpful resources for tourpreneurs to upload, edit, and manage their listed tours.

Sign up here:  https://supplier.getyourguide.com/

Viator and Tripadvisor Experiences

The great thing about signing up with Viator is that they’re connected to Tripadvisor Experiences as well. So you’re getting two listings in one. 

On these platforms, everyone is welcome. So even smaller tourpreneurs stand the chance to benefit from the 350 million visitors each month. They also offer some pretty  handy features . On Viator, you also get full control of your tours. Images, descriptions, and your price (minus the commission) is added by you. 

Sign up here:  https://supplier.viator.com/sign-up-info

Another big site to list your tours on is Expedia. They see over 140 million visitors each month and have a considerable portfolio which includes Travelocity and Orbitz.  

Expedia has what they call Destination Managers, who will contact you and approve your listing. They’re also available to help you with the process, great if you’re not familiar with it. For every tour booked on their platform, Expedia takes a percentage in commission. 

Sign up here:  https://join.localexpertpartnercentral.com/signup

Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb has already allowed many people to open their homes, meet travelers, and make some money along the way. Now, passionate tourpreneurs can list on Airbnb Experiences. 

Almost anyone can start here, so if you’re an aspiring tourpreneur this may be your chance. You do, however, need to fit in with the  Airbnb standards . You can add your tours for free, but there is a 20% service fee on each experience booked. 

Sign up here:  https://www.airbnb.co.za/host/experiences

Musement offers 24-hour support to all of their tourpreneurs, as well as a straightforward platform to advertise your tours. 

You have control over your listings, and can add and edit tours whenever you need to. And the website works to translate all of the text as well. 

This site also offers free sign up and only takes a commission on successful bookings. They’ll give you a personal account manager, too. So you’ll always have help and advice when needed.   Sign up here:  https://business.musement.com/register/

This one is a little more tricky. While TourRadar offers fantastic opportunities for many tourpreneurs, they’re not  always  ready to accept new listings. They do have a waiting list, though, which is worth signing up to. 

Once you’re accepted, your tours will benefit from the 3 million monthly website visits and 2 million email subscribers. They also have great customer service, and their app makes things smoother as well. 

Sign up (or join the waiting list) here:  https://operators-news.tourradar.com/list-your-tours

If you’re a new tourpreneur, just starting out, this may be the exact platform for you. WithLocals matches local tour guides with tourists visiting their cities. Their list of tour operators includes freelancers and established local agencies. 

Their tours are big in Asia and Europe, but they’ve started branching out to the rest of the world as well. You won’t pay the site for listing your tour, a charge is made to the users who book instead. 

Sign up here:  https://www.withlocals.com/become-a-host/

Klook started – and has become quite popular – in Asia. But now, they’re expanding globally. While there are still a few destinations not yet reached, it’s just a matter of time.  

They target an audience of visitors to both Asia and parts of Europe, with quite a chunk of users being in the USA. They also have a convenient mobile app which makes things so much easier for both partners and customers. 

When you sign up for free to their partner program, you’ll be contacted by one of the team to discuss a commission structure. It’s still a very personal experience. 

Sign up here:  https://www.klook.com/partner/

Thrillophilia

Award-winning and far-reaching, Thrillophilia provides a space for your tours to be seen by millions of travelers. They’re well-known and loved by both users and partners. 

There are many categories for tours, including a range of activities, day tours, and even rentals. So there’s bound to be a spot for your tours. A definite bonus of listing with them is their convenient mobile app, allowing tours to be booked and managed on the go.  

Sign up here:  https://www.thrillophilia.com/suppliers/

Adrenaline Hunter

For tours that offer excitement and action, Adrenaline Hunter is the best place to list them. They list everything from shark diving to rock climbing, in over 100 countries. 

Get your tours seen by more than 400,000 visitors each month and benefit from a global audience. You’ll have full control over your guests and their bookings, including the ability to approve and decline bookings. 

Sign up here:  https://providers.adrenaline-hunter.com/en-GB/

Time To Start Your Tour Advertising & Selling

This list is just the tip of the iceberg. There are many channels of distribution in the tourism industry, you just have to know which ones to use. Sites like Getyourguide, Viator, Tourradar are great starting points. 

The fantastic thing about listing your tours online is that you don’t have to pick just one. None of the above-mentioned tour sites holds you to any contract which prohibits you from listing your tours anywhere else. 

So take a few hours and list your tours on as many as you can. You’ll get more exposure and have a much higher chance of securing bookings. 

From Yosemite to Acadia, National Park Week 2024 kicks off with free entry

National Park Week kicks off April 20 with free entry to every national park in America. 

That’s not just capital NP national parks like Grand Teton and Olympic , but all 429 sites within the National Park System , ranging from national battlefields to seashores.

Entry fees are only waived that first day, but there are special activities planned throughout National Park Week (and many sites don’t charge entry fees anyway).

"With countless options of things to do and see, there really is something for everyone in our country’s national parks,” National Park Service Director Chuck Sams said in a statement.

Here’s what travelers should know.

What is the purpose of National Park Week?

The first National Park Week in 1991 marked the 75th anniversary of the National Park Service.

The next wasn't until 1994, but since then, it’s become an annual, presidentially proclaimed celebration across America’s ever-growing list of national parks, according to National Park Service spokesperson Kathy Kupper.

“During National Park Week, and throughout the year, I encourage people to discover and enjoy the natural, cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities available in national parks and through National Park Service community programs,” Sams said.

How long is National Park Week?

National Park Week actually spans nine days. It runs from Saturday, April 20 through Sunday, April 28. 

Each day will spotlight a different parks-related theme.

• April 20 - Discovery
• April 21 - Volunteers 
• April 22 - Earth Day 
• April 23 - Innovation 
• April 24 - Workforce Wednesday 
• April 25 - Youth Engagement 
• April 26 - Community Connections 
• April 27 - Junior Ranger Day
• April 28 - Arts in Parks 

Travelers can find their nearest park through the National Park Service and National Park Foundation’s Find Your Park site.

What is the most visited national park? Answers to your biggest park questions

Are national parks free on Earth Day?

Not this year. Earth Day is April 22. 

Last year, it happened to coincide with the first day of National Park Week, when parks offer free entry. 

However, this year, the first day of National Park Week is April 20.

When are all US national parks free?

There are five more free entry dates this year:

• April 20 – First day of  National Park Week
• June 19 - Juneteenth
• Aug. 4 – Great American Outdoors Day 
• Sept. 28  – National Public Lands Day
• Nov. 11 – Veterans Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day was also an entry-fee-free day in January.

Certain groups like military service members, veterans , and U.S. citizens and permanent residents with permanent disabilities are eligible for free entry any time of year. Fourth graders and their families are also eligible for free park visits through the Every Kid Outdoors program.

Visitors should note some parks charge fees for parking , access to specific facilities, and other things, even when entry fees are waived.

What activities can people do when visiting the national park?

Activities vary by date and location and can be found on the National Park Service’s event calendar . Junior Ranger Day events include the chance to build biplane models at Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in Alabama and learn about the history of dogs in Hidatsa villages and earn a BARK Ranger badge for their own pups at Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site in North Dakota.

“Of course, we hope that kids will want to protect parks and want to make sure that we pass on parks to the future generations of kids, but in order to do that, we have to make sure that we are letting kids come to our parks to have fun, to fall in love with nature, to fall in love with history and culture,” Caitlin Campbell, Interpretation and Engagement coordinator for the National Park Service, told USA TODAY.  “Our primary objective is to make sure that kids feel welcome in parks and know that parks are a fun and safe place where they belong.” 

All year long, kids of all ages and abilities are invited to take part in the free Junior Ranger program in parks and online .

"They can find Junior Ranger programming probably pretty close to where they live," she said. "Any day of the year, they could celebrate (being a) Junior Ranger, but we hope that they celebrate during National Park Week."

Tourists get more access to royal family residences with 'exclusive tours' of Buckingham Palace and Balmoral Castle

Rooms at Balmoral Castle and Buckingham Palace that were previously off limits will be opened to the public for the first time, giving visitors a sneak peek into royal life.

The royal residences were open to tourists before, but now visitors will be able to see even more of the historical locations and take "exclusive tours" with special guides. 

However, it comes at a price.

Tickets for what's called "The Balmoral Experience" cost 100 pounds ($192).

Significant royal residences

Scotland's Balmoral Castle was thought to be Queen Elizabeth II's favourite residence, with the late monarch spending her final days there before her death in 2022.

It was something of a retreat for the late monarch, who spent almost every summer of her life at the estate. 

"I suppose Balmoral is a place one looks forward to very much," she said in 1992.

"I think granny is the most happy here. I think she really, really loves the Highlands," her granddaughter, Princess Eugenie said in 2012.

Buckingham Palace is in central London and is an administrative hub for the royal family. 

Its balcony is a centrepiece for mayor royal events, with the royals typically gathering there to wave to crowds below. 

Balmoral interior opened for the first time

Before now, access to Balmoral Castle was pretty much restricted to the grounds and the ballroom.

But a series of limited tours will give visitors a more intimate look at Queen Elizabeth's summer home later this year. 

Here's how the Balmoral website describes it :

"For the first time since the castle was completed in 1855, we have been granted permission to take you on a private tour with our experienced guides. "They will take you on a historical journey through several of the beautiful rooms within Balmoral Castle. "You will learn about the origins of the Castle and how it has been loved by generations of the Royal family. Travel through time from the purchase of the Balmoral by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, through to present day, where you can see how rooms within the castle are used today by their Majesties The King and Queen and other members of the royal family."

The tours are limited to 40 people per day and will only run in July and August. 

Tickets cost 100 pounds, with an extra 50 pounds for afternoon tea. 

Balmoral tickets sell out in a day

Within a day after local media reported the new tour, all tickets have sold out , according to the Balmoral Castle website.

On Wednesday, the website was briefly brought down by demand.

"As we are currently experiencing a high demand of bookings, you have been placed in a queue," the website read.

General admission tickets, which covers entry to the grounds, gardens, and exhibitions are still available.

More access to Buckingham Palace

Before this announcement, the public could tour 19 state rooms at Buckingham Palace.

But the East Wing — a section of Buckingham Palace which includes the front facade and the famous balcony — has been off limits. 

In July and August, "expert guides" will lead small tourist groups through the wing.

It will lead people to a room that leads onto the balcony, according to Royal Collections Trust website .

But it doesn't say if tourists will be able to go out on the balcony.

Adults will have to be pay an extra 75 pounds on top of the standard admission ticket to the state rooms — so it will cost at least 107 pounds. 

There are limited tickets available for these tours, which haven't gone on sale yet. 

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The nine best bets to win this year’s Masters

The PGA Tour schedule so far this season has been ruled by long shots. Take away Scottie Scheffler’s two victories in 2024, and the tournament winners have mainly come out of nowhere.

That trend is unlikely to continue this week at the Masters , where surprise winners are rare. Yes, you’ll occasionally see triumphant golfers such as 60-to-1 long shot Danny Willett in 2016 or 40-to-1 Hideki Matsuyama in 2021, but most Masters champions follow the same criteria: They have good history at Augusta National, good form entering the tournament and good standing in certain key metrics.

While it’s hard to judge the form of the 13 LIV golfers in the field because they play less often and in less-challenging fields, we have a pretty good sense of what a Masters winner should look like:

He’s good at Augusta National: According to Datagolf, course history is far more predictive at Augusta National than at any other course in the PGA Tour rotation. Nine of the past 14 winners (and 13 of the past 18) had a previous green jacket or a top-10 Masters finish.

He’s not a Masters rookie or an amateur: Only three players have won the Masters in their first appearance at the tournament, the last being Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979. I won’t be considering the following Augusta National first-timers: Ludvig Aberg, Wyndham Clark, Eric Cole, Nick Dunlap, Austin Eckroat, Ryo Hisatsune, Lee Hodges, Nicolai Hojgaard, Jake Knapp, Peter Malnati, Denny McCarthy, Grayson Murray, Matthieu Pavon, Adam Schenk and Stephan Jaeger. Plus, no amateur has won the Masters, and there are five in this year’s field: Santiago de la Fuente, Stewart Hagestad, Christo Lamprecht, Neal Shipley and Jasper Stubbs. In terms of picks to win, you can ignore them.

He’s highly ranked: Of the past 24 Masters winners, 17 entered the tournament in the top 12 of the Official World Golf Ranking, and 22 were in the top 30. But because the OWGR does not award ranking points to LIV golfers , who have plummeted down the rankings board, this trend has become a bit dicey. LIV’s Brooks Koepka had at least a share of the lead for the first three rounds at last year’s Masters before he fell apart on Sunday.

He’s in good form: Of the past 13 Masters champions, only Matsuyama in 2021 did not have at least two top-12 stroke-play finishes in the calendar year of the tournament, either on the PGA Tour or the European Tour. These golfers haven’t exactly been tearing it up this year (or are well past their primes), and they’re off my list: Fred Couples, Rickie Fowler, Ryan Fox, Lucas Glover, Sungjae Im, Zach Johnson, Tom Kim, Kurt Kitayama, Min Woo Lee, Luke List, Phil Mickelson, Collin Morikawa, José María Olazábal, Patrick Reed, Justin Rose, Charl Schwartzel, Vijay Singh, Sepp Straka, Camilo Villegas, Bubba Watson, Mike Weir, Willett, Gary Woodland and Tiger Woods.

He’s good on par-4s: Of the past 11 Masters champions, nine ranked first, second or third in the field in par-4 scoring during the tournament. Nine of the past 12 winners also entered the tournament ranked 11th or better in the PGA Tour’s par-4 birdie-or-better statistic . Rory McIlroy, for instance, ranks 70th in par-4 scoring and 72nd in par-4 birdie-or-better this season, and I won’t be betting him to end his Masters jinx this week. Other golfers who aren’t attacking par-4s this season include Cam Davis and Will Zalatoris (though the latter is tempting because of his strong Augusta National history).

He’s not the defending champion: Only three players since 1960 have won back-to-back Masters — Jack Nicklaus in 1965-66, Nick Faldo in 1989-90 and Tiger Woods in 2001-02. Since 2002, only Woods (2006) and Jordan Spieth (2016) have finished in the top five as the defending champion. Three of the past seven defending champions have missed the cut, and none of those seven finished better than Scheffler’s 10th last year. That means I won’t be betting Jon Rahm, last year’s winner , to repeat.

He didn’t win the week before: The last player to win the tournament immediately preceding the Masters and then win the green jacket was Phil Mickelson in 2006. Since then, only two golfers (Anthony Kim in 2010 and Spieth in 2021) have won the week before and then finished in the top 10 at Augusta. Akshay Bhatia, who just won the Texas Open , will not be on my card.

Now that we’ve eliminated 49 golfers from the field of 89, let’s take a look at a few who can actually win. Odds are as of Wednesday morning at DraftKings Sportsbook :

Scottie Scheffler (+450)

Betting Scheffler at any tournament these days means accepting preposterously low odds, and the Masters is no different. The champion from two years ago and the OWGR No. 1 is again the favorite, for ample reasons. Scheffler has won two of his past three tournaments and was a missed six-footer away from forcing a playoff at the Houston Open two weekends ago. His worst finish this calendar year was a tie for 17th at the American Express; he has been in the top 10 in his seven other tournaments. The knock on Scheffler has always been his putting, but he has gained strokes on the greens in five of his past six tournaments after an equipment change. He’s first on the PGA Tour in par-4 scoring and par-4 birdie-or-better. What’s not to like here, other than the low odds?

Xander Schauffele (+1400)

Schauffele is probably the best player without a major championship (though he does have an Olympic gold medal ), and you have to think he’s about due: The world’s fifth-ranked player has far more top-10s (11) than missed cuts (three) in his 26 major appearances. Three of those top-10s came at Augusta National. Schauffele, who has finished T-5 or better in three of his past four tournaments, trails only Scheffler in par-4 scoring this season and is tied for 17th in par-4 birdie-or-better. And how about this from Kyle Porter of CBS Sports ? Nine of the past 11 Masters winners had gained at least 1.7 strokes tee to green per round in the three months leading into the tournament. Only two PGA Tour golfers fit that bill this year: Scheffler and Schauffele.

Hideki Matsuyama (+2000)

Matsuyama already has a green jacket as the 2021 champion. He also has some blinding form, with a win in February at Riviera (a good course comparison to Augusta National), followed by a tie for 12th at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and a tie for sixth at the Players Championship (two tournaments with elite fields), plus a tie for seventh last weekend in Texas. Matsuyama is one of three golfers in the field to finish at least in the top 25 in each of the past four Masters — Scheffler and Shane Lowry are the others — and he can’t be overlooked.

Joaquín Niemann (+2800)

I think Niemann has one of the better shots out of all the LIV golfers because he comes in with white-hot form: three wins and four top-fives since November, with one of those victories in a full-field DP World Tour event. (LIV golfers can play on the European tour.) He’s also one of only two LIV golfers to average at least two strokes gained per round this season. (Rahm is the other; Dustin Johnson — No. 3 on that list — is well behind both at 1.54 strokes gained per round.) Niemann’s best finish at Augusta National is a tie for 16th last year, but he has made the cut each of the past three years.

Tony Finau (+3500)

Every year, it seems, golf fans get talked into considering Finau at the Masters, and every year he seems to do just okay: He has never missed the cut in six Augusta National appearances, with three top-10s. This year, the world’s 26th-ranked player has missed just one cut in PGA Tour play and tied for second at the Houston Open, his most recent event. Finau can be a little wild off the tee, but that shortcoming is negated a bit at Augusta National because the rough isn’t very penal, and Finau shines at courses with short rough .

Shane Lowry (+6000)

The 2019 British Open champion has been picking up steam as the season has worn on, with a tie for fourth at the Cognizant and a solo third the next week at the Arnold Palmer. Lowry has finished no worse than a tie for 25th in his past four Augusta National appearances and tied for third two years ago. He’s top-20 in par-4 scoring and par-4 birdie-or-better this season.

Sahith Theegala (+5000)

The 26-year-old has played in only one Masters, but it was a ninth-place finish at last year’s tournament. This year, the world No. 15 has four top-10 finishes, with three of them coming over his past five events. Theegala is a respectable 24th in par-4 scoring and 31st in par-4 birdie-or-better.

Cameron Young (+5000)

Young is coming off a tie for seventh at last year’s Masters, has four top-10s this year and is respectable enough on par-4s (12th in par-4 birdie or better, 31st in par-4 scoring). And while Young has yet to win on the PGA Tour, he has four top-10s in major tournaments, including a tie for eighth at last year’s British Open. A win is coming, and it could be at Augusta National.

Jason Day (+6000)

The Aussie, ranked 21st, has the 2015 PGA Championship title on his résumé, and he has finished in second place in each of the other three majors, most recently at last year’s British Open. Day’s recent Masters form has been spotty (two missed cuts and a tie for 39th in his past three visits), but he has four Augusta National top-10s in his career. This season, Day has posted three top-10s and ranks in the top 10 in par-4 scoring and par-4 birdie-or-better.

The betting favorites

As of Wednesday morning, here were the odds to win the Masters of the leading contenders, according to DraftKings Sportsbook:

• Scottie Scheffler: +450
• Rory McIlroy: +1100
• Jon Rahm: +1100
• Xander Schauffele: +1400
• Brooks Koepka: +1800
• Hideki Matsuyama: +2000
• Jordan Spieth: +2500
• Joaquín Niemann: +2800
• Ludvig Aberg: +3000
• Tony Finau: +3500
• Bryson DeChambeau: +3500
• Viktor Hovland: +4000
• Patrick Cantlay: +4000
• Matt Fitzpatrick: +4000
• Dustin Johnson: +4000

The Masters 2024

Professional golf makes its annual visit to Augusta National Golf Club at the 2024 Masters, beginning Thursday and ending Sunday.

Tee times: First- and second-round pairings and tee times have been announced. See the full schedule .

Who’s playing: The Masters field has 89 players, including five-time winner Tiger Woods , defending champion Jon Rahm and 2022 winner Scottie Scheffler . Five amateur golfers are also in the field.

LIV and PGA: Thirteen LIV players will compete at the Masters with their PGA Tour counterparts, distinguishable only by the LIV team gear they’ll be sporting. More than 10 months have passed since the PGA Tour announced plans to partner with LIV Golf’s Saudi backers, but no deal is imminent.

Betting: From historical performance to odds, here’s a breakdown of nine players who could win the Masters .

• No other golfer is doing what Scottie Scheffler makes look easy 1 hour ago No other golfer is doing what Scottie Scheffler makes look easy 1 hour ago
• This Masters reunion is a reminder of what golf has lost 2 hours ago This Masters reunion is a reminder of what golf has lost 2 hours ago
• LIV’s Greg Norman never experienced the Masters as he did this week Earlier today LIV’s Greg Norman never experienced the Masters as he did this week Earlier today

Expert Picks: Masters Tournament

Expert Picks

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How it works: Each week, our experts from PGATOUR.COM will make their selections in PGA TOUR Fantasy Golf. Each lineup consists of four starters and two bench players that can be rotated after each round. Adding to the challenge is that every golfer can be used only three times per each of four Segments.

Aside from the experts below, Golfbet Insider Rob Bolton breaks down the field at the Masters Tournament in this week's edition of Power Rankings .

Betting picks

WILL GRAY (Lead, Fantasy & Betting)

• Winner: Scottie Scheffler (+400) – It’s not sexy, but I’ve spent too much time trying to rationalize a pick on someone else. At the end of the day, Scheffler was red-hot heading into his 2022 Masters triumph – and he’s playing materially better this time around.
• Top 10: Ludvig Åberg (+225) – We all know the trends against first-time winners, but they don’t apply to the finish markets. Åberg led the Valero field in SG: Tee-to-Green last week and has all the skills required to contend in his major championship debut.
• Longshot: Russell Henley (+6000) – The former Georgia Bulldog finished T4 here a year ago and has been known to heat up on the greens from time to time. Two top-5s in his last three starts show signs of promise.
• H2H: Chris Kirk (-120) over Keegan Bradley – There aren’t a ton of course comps for Augusta National, but there are some undeniable parallels with the terrain of Kapalua. Expect the Sentry champ to play well, having finished T23 here last year, while Bradley has missed three of four cuts entering the week.

BEN EVERILL (Senior writer, Fantasy & Betting)

• Winner: Xander Schauffele (+1600) – Look, we all know Scheffler has the chance to take this tournament and run with it but my process of elimination story brought me a winner last year and I’m banking it can do it again. Schauffele is ready to contend again… and you have to be knocking on the door to eventually be let in. Back off my blacklist and into the furnace!
• Top 10: Sahith Theegala (+320) – I really like Theegala as an outright option here over the next few years. T9 a year ago with a hot finish and another year wiser to his game. He still has more foul balls off the tee than I’d like but if he can get away with those this week he’s a chance.
• Longshot: Jason Day +6600 – Longshots don’t win the Masters and my campaign to move the threshold to +4000 this week fell on deaf ears (Zalatoris, Finau, Smith…). But how can I not plump for the man who – in his prime – had me declaring he’d win two green jackets in his lifetime? Multiple chances in the past… why not another.
• Head to Head: Shane Lowry (-110) over Collin Morikawa – Lowry’s Tee-to-Green game has been good of late whereas Morikawa is in a ball-striking slump compared to his usual high standards. This is as much a Morikawa fade as anything else.

CHRIS BREECE (Senior Content Manager Golfbet)

• Winner: Scottie Scheffler (+400) – I’ll be that guy. My three finalists were him, Spieth and Schauffele. It came down to who I trusted most to win. And it’s not even close.
• Top 10: Matt Fitzpatrick (+275) – I’m staying patient and not backing off my support of him. He had the best weekend of anyone in San Antonio and I still feel like he has great golf ahead of him.
• Longshot: Max Homa (+5500) – I know what you’re thinking. However, name me a player with more talent/star power whose odds are above +5000.
• H2H: Shane Lowry (-110) over Collin Morikawa – I almost picked Lowry for the top 10. Generally plays well here and has been in good form.

MATT DELVECCHIO (Social content manager, Fantasy & Betting)

• Winner: Will Zalatoris (+4000) – Beware the hungry dog runs faster. It’s comeback time for the previous major runner-up. He’s come back to good form from his back surgery with a three-game stretch of T13, T2 and T4 earlier in the year. He played with Tiger on Monday and saw how great he looked recovering from his own surgery. Will even talked about the influence Tiger's comeback has had on his own journey. People are sleeping on Zalatoris' comeback because of his MC at THE PLAYERS and T74 in Houston. Augusta will bring something out of him. Zalatoris is ready to be among the top players in the world and will show it this week.
• Top 10: Bryson DeChambeau (+300) – It’s been four years since he called Augusta National a par 67. He is older and wiser now to say such a thing. DeChambeau's game fits Augusta well and I see him taking a big charge at this championship in a quest to become a two-time major champion.
• Longshot: Sam Burns (+5500) – The only reason I’m taking him here is that I’ve liked him to win for the past couple of months now and he hasn’t. A wise man once said, “if you like a player to win soon, more likely than not they will”.
• H2H: Lowry (-110) over Morikawa – Collin’s game is a mystery this year. Most alarming has been his iron play which in past years has been seen as unstoppable. Combo that with the fact that Lowry does like Augusta and is in relatively good form as of late. I’ll take the current form over past success.

Odds were sourced on Tuesday, April 9. For live odds, visit BetMGM .

Want to see how to set up your PGA TOUR Fantasy Golf lineup? Scroll below.

THINK YOU'RE BETTER THAN OUR EXPERTS? The PGA TOUR Experts league is once again open to the public. You can play our free fantasy game and see how you measure up against our experts below.

Joining the league is simple. Just click here to sign up or log in. Once you create a team, click the "LEAGUES" tab. Then click on "FEATURED," and then on the PGA TOUR Experts league that populates.

*Brett Jungles joined the Expert Picks league at the beginning of Segment 1 and did not accumulate any points from the FedExCup Fall.

Golfbet experts longshot: 0-14

For resources to overcome a gambling problem, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER today.

This diagram shows what happens during a total solar eclipse

• A total solar eclipse will be visible from Texas to Maine on Monday.
• This cosmic event occurs when the Earth, sun, and moon align perfectly.
• One diagram shows how a total solar eclipse works, and why it darkens the sky in the middle of the day.

A total solar eclipse will turn afternoon skies dark from Texas to Maine on Monday.

During the eclipse, the moon will cross between the Earth and the sun, completely blocking out the sun's light. If you're in the moon's shadow, the sky will go dark for about three to four minutes, depending on your location.

It's the climax of a cosmic dance between our planet , the moon, and the sun.

What causes a total solar eclipse

During a total solar eclipse, three key conditions happen at the same time: The moon is in the "new moon" phase; the moon crosses the plane of the Earth's orbit ; and the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit.

When those conditions are just right, the Earth, sun, and moon line up. This diagram shows how that looks:

Then, if you're in the path of totality — which is basically the center of the moon's shadow, called the umbra — the moon appears to obscure the sun.

If you're in the penumbra — the outer region of the moon's shadow — you'll see a partial solar eclipse , where the moon appears to partially overlap the sun.

A total solar eclipse happens somewhere on Earth about every 18 months on average. It's rare for one to occur in any single place, though, because of the complex movements of the Earth and moon.

The moon orbits Earth every 29.5 days, while Earth has its own orbit around the sun. The moon's orbit is tilted about five degrees, which is large enough to keep its shadow off the Earth and the Earth's shadow off the moon most of the time.

There are two points — called nodes — where the moon's orbit crosses the Earth's plane. In the diagram above, the moon is lined up on a node.

Related stories

The moon aligns with the nodes and the sun about twice per year, which is how we get eclipses. A solar eclipse happens when the moon is between the Earth and sun. A lunar eclipse happens when the moon is on the other side of the Earth, farthest from the sun.

What the total solar eclipse will look like

In the path of totality on Monday, where the moon's umbra falls over Earth, the total solar eclipse will have 10 distinct phases , each with different amounts of the sun visible from the ground.

The phenomenon kicks off with what's called first contact, when the moon starts to pass across the sun. After about an hour, the moon will almost completely mask the sun, and you'll start to see a bright light radiate out of the sliver of remaining sun, known as the "diamond ring."

Then the moon will fully eclipse the sun, turning the sky dark in the middle of the day.

During totality only the sun's outermost atmosphere, called the corona, will be visible glowing around the dark disc of the moon.

After that, the moon will continue to travel across the sky to form another crescent. The eclipse ends when the moon ceases to cover the sun.

Types of solar eclipses

There are three types of solar eclipses .

Total solar eclipses, like this one, occur when the moon appears to completely cover the sun. If the moon only somewhat covers the sun, that's a partial eclipse . Many people who are near the path of totality, but not in it, on Monday will see a partial eclipse.

The third type, an annular eclipse , occurs when the moon is too far from Earth to fully block out the sun from our perspective. The outer edge of the sun remains visible as a bright ring around the moon.

A total solar eclipse is considered the most spectacular. Globally, only about a third of all solar eclipses are total.

The next total solar eclipse in the contiguous US will be in 2044.

How to watch the eclipse

If you plan to watch the eclipse, make sure you are wearing ISO-certified eclipse glasses . These are 1,000 times darker than regular sunglasses. Without them, staring at the sun could damage your eyes.

The only safe time to look at the eclipse without glasses is during totality.

Leanna Garfield and Anaele Pelisson contributed to an earlier version of this post .

Watch: Why the sun has two giant holes, and what that means for Earth

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Masters 2024 props, golf odds: Expert reveals top PGA Tour prop bets, parlay picks for Augusta National

Mike mcclure locked in his expert pga golf prop picks and parlay for the masters 2024 at augusta national.

As a former Masters winner and the No. 1 player in the world, it comes as little surprise that Scottie Scheffler is the 13-4 favorite in the 2024 Masters odds. However, many Masters bettors might have a hard time justifying that price considering golf is as deep as it has ever been. There are 33 past major champions in the 2024 Masters field and the list of best player without a major championship includes superstars like Xander Schauffele, Wyndham Clark, Viktor Hovland, Tony Finau and Joaquin Niemann. A collection of talent like that might make it hard to pick an outright winner, but there plenty of 2024 Masters prop bets you can make to fill out your 2024 Masters betting card.

2024 Masters props include betting on leaders round-by-round, head-to-head matchups, leaders by nationality and much more ahead of the 2024 Masters, which starts Thursday at Augusta National Golf Club. Before locking in your 2024 Masters prop picks or entering Masters pool picks, you need to see what SportsLine DFS pro and PGA expert Mike McClure has to say . 

McClure is a DFS legend with over $2 million in career winnings, and he's been red-hot on his PGA picks dating back to the PGA Tour restart in June of 2020. McClure uses his proprietary simulation model to analyze the field and crush his  golf picks . He is up almost $9,500 on his best bets since the restart.  

McClure's model predicted Jon Rahm would finish on top of the leaderboard at the 2023 Sentry Tournament of Champions and The American Express. At the 2023 Masters, the model was all over Rahm's second career major victory heading into the weekend. It was the second straight Masters win for the model, which also nailed Scheffler winning in 2022. 

This same model has also nailed a whopping 10 majors entering the weekend. Anyone who has followed McClure's picks has seen massive returns.  

Now, McClure has dialed in on the Masters golf tournament and just locked in his top prop picks and PGA predictions. You can only see McClure's Masters 2024 prop picks at SportsLine .

Top 2024 Masters prop picks

We can tell you that one of McClure's favorite Masters prop picks is Ludvig Aberg to be the top debutant at +275. The 24-year-old Swede is one of 20 players who will make their first appearance at Augusta National Golf Club, but he's already one of the most accomplished. The Texas Tech product earned a PGA Tour exemption last summer.

He was top 25 in three of his first four starts on the PGA Tour as a professional, including a fourth-place finish at the John Deere Classic. He collected his first professional win on the DP World Tour at the 2023 Omega European Masters, prompting his selection to the European Ryder Cup team. Aberg went on to win his first PGA Tour event at the 2023 RSM Classic and rose to No. 9 in the Official World Golf Ranking with a solo second at the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and an eighth at the Players Championship.  You can see who else to back at SportsLine .

How to make Masters 2024 prop picks

McClure has also locked in a slew of other prop bets for the 2024 Masters, including a prop that pays almost 20-1 and comes from an unlikely player. You can find out who it is, and check out all of McClure's Masters prop picks at SportsLine .

Who wins the Masters 2024, and which golfer should you target for almost a 20-1 payout? Visit SportsLine now to get Mike McClure's Masters 2024 prop picks, all from the golf expert who is up almost $9,500 on his best bets since 2020 , and find out.

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