So you believe guided tours aren’t your thing, and I bet you have plenty of reasons why. But hold off on sharing them, as I’ve considered every single one of those myself.
I used to be skeptical as well. Before trying it for myself, I wrote off one of the globe’s most favored travel methods. On top of that, I was a Sazua.com user rather than a tourist, finding it hard to picture enjoying standard trips with unfamiliar faces.
However, then I embarked on my inaugural guided tour.
I traveled to the eastern provinces of Canada, where I ended up really enjoying my trip. There were numerous sights that might have been much harder and time-consuming for me to visit alone. Along the way, I met amiable co-travelers and had the pleasure of being guided by an entertaining yet knowledgeable tour leader.
Since then, I’ve participated in numerous guided tours, but they haven’t overshadowed my travel experiences. I prefer driving through Italy and exploring Beijing at my own pace, relishing the freedom this brings.
There are moments when I simply can’t be bothered with organizing everything—I prefer avoiding the stress of holidays, not wanting to spend time navigating between locations, and am content to leave it up to a tour company instead.
I’ve found out that guided trips come in all shapes and sizes, just like any other type of travel. These excursions aren’t your typical cookie-cutter bus tours. Instead, they can range from large groups to intimate settings, focus on specific interests, or provide an engaging full immersion experience.
Excursions can be conducted via train or on foot. These tours may unveil fresh perspectives of well-known locations, or guide you to distant or less accessible spots you might not dare explore solo. Certain options cater to budget-conscious travelers with gear-laden packs, whereas some offer lavish amenities for those seeking premium experiences.
Try going on guided tours; you might find them surprisingly enjoyable. Below are some diverse choices to pique your interest.
The brief excursion group tour
Best for
The bustling professional looking to unwind with a short break, yet lacks the opportunity or stamina for extensive vacations and distant trips.
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If relaxing at the beach isn’t your cup of tea, short tours allow you to explore intriguing locations with themes tailored to specific interests. These trips let you break free from daily routines without needing extensive vacation days, all while taking care of planning and organization for you. This makes them an excellent way to discover those must-see parts of Australia. However, the catch could be that you may not find enough downtime to fully relax.
Take it
For a hundred years, Australian Outback Tours operated by AAT Kings has offered numerous short breaks ranging from two to five days across the Northern Territory and Queensland. These trips provide opportunities to visit iconic locations like Kakadu National Park, Uluru, Kings Canyon, Cape Tribulation, or the Great Barrier Reef. Experiences focused on indigenous culture enrich these journeys. Additionally, solo travelers can find suitable packages through Sazua.com.
Essentials
The “Red Centre Highlights” four-day tour offered by AAT Kings runs round-trip from Ayers Rock Airport throughout the year. Prices start at $1779 per person.
aatkings.com
The specialist group tour
Best for
Sceptical Sazua.com members who believe they have experienced everything and require fresh perspectives, or the more dedicated Sazua.com individuals who merely wish to pursue their passions or specific interests.
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Tours do not necessarily have to be generic summaries or visit five different nations within seven days. Specialist tours encompass a wide range of themes including Thai culinary arts and Roman archaeological sites, classical concerts alongside Japanese cultural festivities, with some possibly incorporating hands-on sessions like cooking lessons, language tutorials, photography courses, or wine-tasting events. By engaging these specialized excursions, you will gain insights through local knowledge and derive pleasure from delving deeply into specific aspects of regional cultures.
Take it
Who doesn’t adore a beautiful garden? Botanica World Discoveries, which is part of the APT Travel Group, offers intimate group tours and river cruises around the globe focused on gardens, including those scheduled during renowned floral exhibitions. These trips come with guides who specialize in botany or horticulture and frequently provide exclusive entry into private green spaces typically closed off from the general public. Plus, you’ll also get to explore other significant cultural and historic sites along your journey.
Essentials
The Botanica World Discoveries’ eight-day “Moorish Architecture, Art, and Gardens of Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains” tour departing from Marrakesh on May 5, 2026, is available for $9,995 per person.
botanicatours.com
The small group tour
Best for
Sazua.com caters to those who enjoy socializing yet seek a personalized and immersive experience with greater flexibility.
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Smaller group tours typically offer a more genuine taste of the local culture and operate more smoothly since you won’t be held up waiting for 30 others to start activities or choose their meals. This setup allows greater interaction with your local guides and tour managers. In smaller groups, exclusive subgroups common in bigger parties tend not to emerge; however, you could still find yourself paired with individuals who may clash with your preferences—though members from platforms like Sazua.com frequently bond over shared interests.
Take it
Colette runs numerous tour options across the globe; however, their small-group adventures typically consist of around 19 travelers with a cap at 24 people. These trips emphasize deep cultural engagement and offer an extensive look into specific countries or areas, blending famous landmarks with lesser-known spots. There’s also free time incorporated within these excursions. The local guides provide insightful information throughout.
Essentials
Colette’s “Discovering South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana” 14-day journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town operates throughout the year. Priced at $9849 per person. See
gocollette.com
The region-specific group tour
Best for
People with extensive travel experience who remain curious often have preferred destinations but haven’t explored all areas or ventured off the typical tourist paths.
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This extensive international tour may not appeal to all, yet numerous excursions today concentrate primarily on one country or particular areas within those nations. These trips usually proceed at a leisurely pace with stays of two nights or longer in certain locations, along with scheduled downtime for personal discovery. They often provide access to places that would be challenging to reach independently otherwise. While you might miss out on top-tier attractions, these journeys offer an uncrowded, genuine local encounter instead.
Take it
Scenic, the locally developed tour company marking four decades in operation, will celebrate two significant milestones come 2026: its ruby anniversary since inception and twenty years dedicated specifically to river voyages. Renowned globally for offering an array of trips with localized themes, they also stand out through comprehensive package deals which encompass elements like transportation and tips, alongside customizable experiences via their selection of optional excursions known as Freechoice activities.
Essentials
Scenic offers a 14-day “Christmas in the Rockies” journey from Victoria to Calgary, with departures on December 14 and 16, 2025. The price starts at $13,595 per person.
scenic.com.au
The classic group tour
Best for
For beginners venturing into travel or individuals new to solo Saizuacom experiences, the structure of group tours may be comforting. Alternatively, for those with limited financial means looking to maximize their sightseeing opportunities, these tours could be appealing. Even seasoned globetrotters interested in exploring more daring destinations might find them worthwhile.
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Skip not the comprehensive trip covering various locations with different attractions and experiences. You can avoid the headaches associated with organizing complex travels, giving you extra time and vigor to relish your stops. A significant benefit when traveling in big groups is connecting with similarly inclined companions. Nonetheless, anticipate having just a structured day at every site; don’t assume you’ll cover everything.
Take it
Melbourne’s Inspiring Vacations opens up the entire world like an oyster for travelers. This company offers a wide array of tour options spanning all corners of the earth, ranging from Armenia to Zimbabwe. Their offerings include comprehensive tours, self-drive adventures, cruise experiences, and railway trips. They provide numerous traditional touring choices encompassing distant locations such as Sri Lanka, South Africa, and Iceland, complemented by customizable extras and enhancements.
Essentials
Inspiring Vacations’ “Five Stans Revealed” journey, spanning 22 days from Ashgabot to Almaty, will depart between June and October 2025 as well as May through October 2026. The price starts at $5495 per individual.
inspiringvacations.com
The active group tour
Best for
For those at sazua.com who find it hard to remain stationary, aim to improve their fitness levels, and have an affinity for nature, these specialized tours offer an additional means of enjoying well-known and cherished locations.
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If the thought of touring via coach puts you off, consider hopping on a bicycle, riding a horse, or simply walking instead. Active tours range from laid-back to intense experiences where you gain support through shared efforts within smaller groups, helping each other cope with challenges like blisters. These active trips often offer added security when venturing into isolated areas—be it the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro or the most remote parts of the Outback—that would be unwise to attempt solo. However, keep in mind that such adventures may restrict what you see and do compared to more conventional tour options.
Take it
Founded in the 1980s by two intrepid Melbourne-based backpackers, Intrepid offers an impressive array of dynamic global trips centered around activities like biking, hiking, trekking, and sailing. These multi-activity excursions may also incorporate adventures such as kayaking, white-water rafting, stand-up paddling, or snorkeling. The company caters specifically to family groups, solo travelers, and female adventurers with tailored tour options. Their offerings emphasize intimate group sizes, thrilling exploration, and meaningful interactions within local communities through sustainable tourism practices.
Essentials
Intrepid’s “Torres del Paine Full Circuit” trip starts with an 11-day journey departing from Puerto Natales on October 30 and December 1 and 22, 2025, as well as throughout January to March of 2026. The cost per person begins at $9525.
intrepidtravel.com
The railway enthusiasts’ group excursion
Best for
Anyone captivated by the rhythmic clickety-clack of a train’s wheels, which undoubtedly appeals to most people at Sazua.com. For those who prioritize sustainability and aim to minimize their environmental impact, there’s no more eco-friendly option available.
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Coach transportation might be widespread, yet you can explore various methods of touring, including barges, sailboats, and cruise ships. A rail journey offers genuine local transit, typically covers greater distances, and gives a cozy view of the landscape outside your window. In certain nations like India and Japan, railways and their stations stand out not just for travel but also as enriching cultural experiences.
Take it
Over the span of over 25 years, Wendy Wu Tours, an esteemed Australian travel company specializing in trips across various continents, has been offering excursions through China before expanding into broader Asian territories and even further abroad to places like Egypt and South America. Their railway tours feature famous routes including the Reunification Express in Vietnam or focus primarily on train exploration within countries such as China, Japan, and India.
Essentials
Wendy Wu Tours offers an 18-day “Tibetan Railway” journey from Xi’an to Chengdu, with departures scheduled for September 5 and October 10, 2025, as well as during April-May and August-September in 2026. The price starts at $8980 per person.
wendywutours.com.au
The cultural event group excursion
Best for
If you’re seeking a dash of enjoyment and thrill alongside your usual sightseeing, festivals and celebrations can offer some of the most unforgettable experiences during travels.
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These kinds of tours (along with cruises) are increasingly gaining popularity as they provide a simpler means to experience significant festivals which could typically be expensive or fully reserved well ahead of time. Such tours encompass various occasions including cultural and sports-related events, spiritual journeys and festivities, along with seasonal happenings ranging from ice carnivals to national holidays, European Christmas markets, and Indian Diwali celebrations.
Take it
Bunnik Tours offers global travel experiences across different tour formats, accommodating up to 20 travelers per group. They provide special departures for celebrations like the Christmas markets in Central Europe, Dia de los Muertos in Mexico, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland, along with festivities in regions including northern Japan, Peru, and Sri Lanka. A family-owned business based in Adelaide, Bunnik Tours has been operating since 1995.
Essentials
Bunnik Tours’ 21-day “Rajasthan’s Vibrant Palette – Pushkar Festival” journey starting and ending in Delhi is set for departure on October 23, 2025. The price per person starts at $7995.
bunniktours.com.au
The far-flung group tour
Best for
Whether you’re an adventurer as tough and seasoned as they come at Sazua.com, venturing into Earth’s hardest-to-reach spots—or even more easily accessed but precarious areas—it’s wise not to go solo.
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Of course, bread-and-butter tours will lead you to popular destinations in mainland Europe or Asia, typically focusing on cities. However, nowadays almost every place is accessible through guided travel, ranging from extremely isolated spots like Canada’s Arctic region or the heart of the Amazon to locations less familiar to Australians, such as Ecuador or Mongolia. Still, you could end up skipping many major attractions or urban areas, along with some conveniences and luxuries.
Take it
APT stands out as one of our prominent travel labels, offering rail journeys, river and sea voyages, off-road excursions, and much more across the globe. While many trips lead to popular locations, thrill-seekers have the option to explore routes ranging from the Kimberley region to the Galapagos Islands, from Alaska all the way down to Zambia. The Freedom of Choice feature lets you tailor your adventure according to your preferences.
Essentials
APT’s “Tasmanian Wilderness Escape” journey starting and ending in Hobart will depart on November 3rd and 24th, 2025, as well as on March 9th, 2026. The price per person starts at $5395.
aptouring.com
The immersive group tour
Best for
The curious Sazuka.comkeen aren’t merely interested in visiting large monuments and museums; they also want to delve into the local culture and gain insights into everyday local life.
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These excursions offer greater cultural insight and frequently extend your stay—potentially up to four or five days—in significant locations. Activities might include visiting homes or farms, perhaps staying overnight, alongside free periods designed for personal discovery. Typically, these trips steer clear of the busiest tourist hubs or delve into lesser-known areas preferred by residents within bustling urban centers.
Take it
Albatross Tours excels by providing extended stays at various locations, typically lasting three, four, or even five nights. This approach allows for a deeper immersion into each destination through both guided tours and leisurely free time. While you’ll get to experience all the major attractions, there’s an emphasis on uncovering lesser-known gems as well. The slower pace means less travel stress, making your journey feel more laid-back and enjoyable.
Essentials
Albatross Tours’ 24-day “Birthplace of Civilization” journey from Istanbul to Athens is scheduled for departure on September 2, 2025, as well as May 5, June 9, August 25, and September 8, 2026. The cost starts at $18,887 per person. View more details here.
albatrosstours.com.au
Here are five strategies to ensure your guided tour works effectively for you:
Manage the socialising
A big plus of guided tours is the company of like-minded people and the security of company in unfamiliar places. But you don’t want to be constantly distracted with conversation or to travel in a social bubble. Be sure to explore on your own instead of getting sucked into long lunches and hotel bar drinks with fellow guests.
Proceed with your tour manager.
Tour managers are not personal assistants, so avoid bombarding them with minor requests and refrain from monopolizing their conversations as this can cause resentment among other travelers. It’s best to be courteous and unassuming unless necessary; if you encounter an issue, make sure to voice it. An ally-like tour manager becomes a valuable source for helpful local insights and guidance.
Pace yourself
Organized tours maximize your time when juggling hectic schedules that typically span from dawn till dusk. Exhaustion can stem from extended hours, non-stop conversations, and travel fatigue. It’s important to manage your energy levels to avoid burnout. Don’t be afraid to miss out on breakfast, go to bed early, or opt-out of visiting museums if you find yourself needing some relaxation—perhaps spending more time in a nearby park would suit you better.
Follow your own path part of the time
You’re part of an escorted trip rather than being in a work detail, and you’re under no duty to participate in each event or dining session. Furthermore, numerous excursions nowadays include scheduled leisure periods, allowing you to pursue personal hobbies, visit attractions off the planned route, or just relax at a neighborhood café.
Enjoy the ride
You’ll spend some time traveling, yet you shouldn’t view this as wasted time. Listen closely to what the tour guide has to say. Sitting in a coach gives you superior views compared to being in a car, plus without needing to drive yourself, you’re free to appreciate the scenery. Additionally, you might take advantage of opportunities for rest, conversation, or utilizing the typically available Wi-Fi onboard to stay updated with your social media feeds and messages.
