Traveling offers more than just a break from daily life; it provides an opportunity to explore new cultures, try unique cuisines, and meet new people. One of the best ways to meet like-minded individuals while on the road is by booking a group tour package. Whether you’re embarking on an international adventure or exploring your own backyard, group tours provide the perfect setting to make lifelong connections. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best group tour packages for making new friends while traveling, including booking sites, top hotels, and airlines to ensure a seamless journey.
1. G Adventures: Small-Group Adventure Tours
G Adventures is renowned for offering small-group tours designed to immerse travelers in the local culture. Their tours cater to people who want to experience the world in an authentic way, while also creating opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Whether you’re exploring the wilds of Patagonia, hiking the Inca Trail in Peru, or enjoying the beaches of Thailand, G Adventures keeps groups small, ensuring personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere for guests to bond.
Booking Site: You can book these tours directly on the G Adventures website.
Best For: Adventurers who want to meet new people while exploring unique and remote destinations.
2. Intrepid Travel: Cultural and Active Group Tours
For travelers seeking cultural immersion and active tours, Intrepid Travel offers an incredible range of group tour packages. From urban exploration in Europe to trekking in the Himalayas, their tours are specifically designed to bring small groups together and encourage social interaction. The group’s guided experiences make it easy to form lasting connections while engaging in local experiences like cooking classes, market tours, and wildlife excursions.
Booking Site: Book your next trip through Intrepid Travel.
Best For: Those seeking a blend of cultural immersion, active exploration, and social connection.
3. Contiki: Fun, Social Tours for 18-35 Year Olds
If you’re under 35 and looking for a fun, high-energy group tour, Contiki is an excellent option. Their tours are designed for young travelers, offering trips that are as much about the social experience as they are about seeing new places. Whether you’re partying through Europe or going on an adventure tour in New Zealand, Contiki’s group travel experience is ideal for meeting new people and forming new friendships.
Booking Site: Contiki tours can be booked through their website.
Best For: Young adults looking for an energetic, social travel experience with lots of opportunities to meet new friends.
4. Topdeck Travel: Group Tours for 18-39 Year Olds
Topdeck Travel is another great option for younger travelers. Specializing in group tours for 18-39-year-olds, Topdeck offers trips that range from city breaks to adventurous outdoor experiences. With a focus on providing a fun and social environment, Topdeck tours make it easy for guests to meet and connect. From sailing trips in Croatia to safaris in Africa, the diverse range of packages ensures there’s something for everyone.
Booking Site: Explore and book your next Topdeck adventure at Topdeck Travel.
Best For: Millennials and Gen Z travelers who want a fun-filled group tour with the chance to meet people from all over the world.
5. Busabout: Flexible Travel with a Social Twist
For those looking for flexibility with a social twist, Busabout offers unique hop-on, hop-off tours across Europe. With a network of destinations and a strong community of travelers, Busabout gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace while still benefiting from the camaraderie of group travel. You can easily hop on a Busabout coach and explore different cities while meeting fellow travelers along the way.
Booking Site: Book Busabout tours at their official site.
Best For: Travelers who want flexibility but still want to meet people and be part of a social group.
6. Booking Hotels for Group Tours
While booking a group tour, accommodations play a significant role in creating a comfortable and social environment. Many of the best group tour companies work with top hotels to offer comfortable stays that encourage interaction. For example, Accor Hotels and Marriott offer a wide range of properties in popular destinations that cater to group tours, providing both affordability and a welcoming atmosphere for socializing.
Additionally, Airbnb also offers group-friendly accommodations in popular destinations, allowing you to book larger properties for group stays and enjoy the comforts of home while on the road.
7. Booking Airlines for Group Travel
When booking flights for group tours, consider airlines with excellent group travel packages. Air France, British Airways, and Delta Airlines offer group booking discounts and additional perks such as extra baggage allowance, priority check-in, and seating arrangements that keep your group together.
Many tour operators also partner with specific airlines to offer exclusive group rates, so it’s worth inquiring about these deals when booking your tour.
