(Before we even get started, let’s deal with the dirty word: “Older.” I’m about to turn 40. And, while I don’t consider that *old,* I do also recognize that my current travel style is somewhat different than many younger travellers. You won’t find me out late at the clubs. Or crashing in a hostel with a shared bathroom if I can help it. But that doesn’t mean I’m not up for adventure! Or that group travel isn’t an option. It just means I have to pick a tour that fits my style.)
Looking to head out on a group adventure? Here are some great group travel options for older (but adventurous) solo travellers!
Why travel with a group?
There are lots of reasons a solo traveller might want to team up with a group tour. Maybe you’re heading somewhere that you don’t speak the language and would feel more comfortable having extra support. Or maybe a group tour offers an experience or access to somewhere that would otherwise be hard to arrange. Or maybe you just want some company for a change. There’s no right or wrong reason to join a group tour!
However, picking the right tour is important! The group dynamics and tour style will strongly influence your experience. Here are a few options to consider:
Intrepid Travel
While Intrepid Travel caters to travellers of all ages, their Premium and Comfort tours seem perfectly targeted at older individuals. Premium tours offer the widest range of experiences in a comfortable setting…and Comfort tours offer not only comfort, but a more relaxed pace. The higher price point on these tours is likely to discourage younger travellers looking for more of a party-vibe. All Intrepid Tours are small groups with an average group size of 10 individuals. Solo travellers can choose to room with another solo traveller of the same gender…or pay a single supplement to have private accommodations (when available). As an added bonus, Intrepid Travel is a B-corp and has a progressive animal welfare policy.
G Adventures
Like Intrepid Travel, G Adventures also caters to travellers of all ages, but their special collection of tours designed in partnership with National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Foundation (centered around wildlife!) are likely to cater to slightly older travellers. All G Adventures tours are small groups with an average size of 10 individuals. Solo travellers can choose to room with another solo traveller of the same gender…or pay a single supplement to have private accommodations (when available). As an added bonus, G Adventures has a progressive animal welfare policy.
Flash Pack
Unlike the previous two tour operators, Flash Pack caters exclusively to 30 and 40 year olds…particularly solo travellers! All Flash Pack tours are small groups with no more than 14 individuals. Solo travellers are paired with another solo traveller of the same gender for rooming purposes.
