Traveling off-the-beaten-path is an exciting way to explore the world beyond the typical tourist spots. It allows you to discover hidden gems, immerse yourself in authentic cultures, and create memories that are truly one-of-a-kind. While these destinations may be lesser-known, booking a tour package for such trips can make the planning process much easier. Here’s how to book the best tour packages for unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
1. Identify Your Travel Style
Before booking any tour package, determine what type of travel experience you’re seeking. Are you looking for an adventure-filled holiday, a cultural immersion, or a relaxing getaway in nature? Different tour operators specialize in different experiences. For example, G Adventures and Intrepid Travel are known for their adventurous tours to remote locations, such as the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil or Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. Meanwhile, Exodus Travels and Cox & Kings offer packages that dive into local cultures, whether it’s exploring the nomadic culture in Bhutan or the rich traditions of Morocco.
2. Use Reputable Booking Sites
When you’re booking off-the-beaten-path destinations, it’s important to use trusted booking sites that can offer reliable options. Websites like Expedia, Viator, and Booking.com have a variety of options and let you filter through different destinations, experiences, and prices. For more unique destinations, Airbnb offers curated travel experiences that can also be a great option for off-the-beaten-path tours.
Booking sites like Klook are also worth exploring for non-traditional destinations. Klook offers handpicked tours to obscure but stunning locations such as Taiwan’s Taroko Gorge or Nepal’s Upper Mustang Valley.
3. Look for Niche Tour Operators
If you’re looking for a specialized off-the-beaten-path tour, consider opting for niche tour operators. Many companies provide exclusive packages to destinations that are not on the typical tourist radar. Wild Frontiers is an excellent choice for those who want to explore remote places like the Hindu Kush Mountains in Afghanistan or the untouched wilderness of Tanzania’s Mahale Mountains National Park. Backroads offers biking and hiking tours through Patagonia or the lesser-known hills of Albania.
These niche operators usually provide intimate group sizes, expert local guides, and the ability to explore untouched landscapes or historic sites that are off the beaten path.
4. Research Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
While it’s easy to find tour packages for popular destinations like Paris or Rome, discovering unique destinations requires some research. Take time to explore less-traveled places that are gaining attention for their beauty, culture, and uniqueness. South Korea’s Jeju Island, Vietnam’s Ha Giang Loop, and Slovenia’s Lake Bled are examples of under-the-radar spots that offer a different kind of experience.
You can research destinations using travel blogs, social media accounts (like Instagram), and travel forums. Websites like Lonely Planet and Tripadvisor also have destination guides that feature off-the-beaten-path spots.
5. Check for Customization Options
If you have a particular off-the-beaten-path destination in mind, check if the tour operator offers custom packages. A custom tour package can provide the flexibility to choose the experiences that interest you the most. Some tour companies, such as Custom Expeditions and Abercrombie & Kent, allow you to tailor the trip to visit secluded locations or smaller towns that might not be included in typical itineraries.
For example, if you’re interested in a private tour through Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle or a remote hiking expedition through Chile’s Patagonia, customization ensures your tour is aligned with your exact interests.
6. Look for Eco-Tourism and Responsible Travel Options
Off-the-beaten-path destinations often boast natural beauty, and it’s essential to travel responsibly to preserve these destinations. Eco-tourism and sustainable travel companies offer tours to remote regions while minimizing environmental impact. Companies like Intrepid Travel and G Adventures focus on responsible travel, partnering with local communities to create sustainable travel experiences in places such as the Galápagos Islands or Bhutan.
When booking a tour, ensure that the company follows eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste, supporting local economies, and respecting wildlife. Checking reviews and certifications like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) can help identify responsible tour operators.
7. Understand Package Inclusions
When booking a tour package, it’s crucial to understand what’s included in the price. Some off-the-beaten-path destinations may require extra preparation, such as special permits or additional costs for remote travel. Make sure to ask your tour operator for a detailed breakdown of the inclusions—such as accommodation, meals, transportation, entrance fees, and guides. You don’t want to be surprised by hidden costs after booking the tour.
Booking.com and Airbnb provide a wide range of options for accommodations that suit unique locations, but double-check if the tour company’s price covers all necessary extras. Popular hotels like Amankora in Bhutan and Anantara in the Maldives offer luxury accommodations in lesser-known areas, which may be included in a specialized tour package.
8. Plan Travel Logistics Carefully
Off-the-beaten-path destinations often require careful planning, as these regions may have limited infrastructure. Flights to remote destinations are often less frequent, and travel between locations can involve long road trips or multi-leg journeys. For example, if you’re booking a trip to Iceland to explore its volcanic landscapes or Nepal to trek to Annapurna Base Camp, ensure you are aware of the travel logistics.
Check airline options like Icelandair for flights to Reykjavik, or Himalaya Airlines for flights into Kathmandu. Major booking sites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights allow you to search for budget-friendly flights with connections that fit your travel needs.
9. Consult Reviews and Testimonials
Before booking any tour package, always consult reviews and testimonials from previous travelers. Websites like Trustpilot, Tripadvisor, and Google Reviews provide valuable feedback on the quality of the tour experience. Look for reviews that mention the destination’s authenticity, the quality of the guides, the overall organization, and the hidden gems you’ll visit.
Pay particular attention to feedback about remote locations. Reviews from other travelers can offer insights into the level of service, any logistical difficulties, and overall satisfaction with their experience. These testimonials are an invaluable resource when booking a unique tour package.
10. Book Early for Better Availability
Off-the-beaten-path destinations often have limited capacity for tourists, especially during peak seasons. To ensure you secure your spot, book your tour package early. This is particularly important for high-demand experiences like safaris in Tanzania or trekking in the Himalayas, where permits and guide services can fill up quickly.
Check for flexible booking policies, which are offered by companies like Expedia and Viator, in case you need to adjust your travel dates. Early booking not only ensures availability but can also help you lock in lower prices before demand pushes costs higher.
Conclusion
Booking a tour package to off-the-beaten-path destinations is an exciting opportunity to explore the world beyond the typical tourist trail. By identifying your travel style, choosing the right tour operator, researching unique destinations, and ensuring proper preparation, you can create a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether it’s discovering Borneo’s wildlife or hiking through New Zealand’s Southern Alps, a well-planned off-the-beaten-path tour package can provide an unforgettable experience. Happy travels!
