6 Solo Travel Tour Operators: You Should Check Out!

Curated with Adventurous, Social, & Solo Travelers in Mind

Once I had a taste of solo, global independence, I couldn’t imagine a better way to travel. Yet I know taking that first step to solo travel can feel overwhelming and with so many tour operators out there, it can be hard to find your travel tribe. 

In this article, I’m focusing on solo travelers who like to be social and are up for some late nights and epic adventures. While there’s no strict age limit with most tour operators, don’t be surprised if you meet more 18 - 35 year olds when traveling with the travel companies listed below. However, age is just a number. You know your body and how you enjoy experiencing life—so swig some Scotch, take off your pants, and run into the adventures with abandon (which is how I ran into Loch Ness)!  

Want More? Check out my article on women-only solo travel tour recommendations! 

Kiwi Experience

I love Kiwi Experience! I’ve used them twice, nearly ten years apart, and both times were incredible experiences! 

Founded in 1989, Kiwi Experience began with a mission to showcase the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of New Zealand to adventurous travelers. Over the years, it has become synonymous with flexible and social travel, offering a hop-on, hop-off bus network that caters to those looking for an immersive and spontaneous travel experience.

Kiwi Experience attracts young backpackers, solo travelers, and adventure seekers who enjoy a social atmosphere and the freedom to explore at their own pace.

They are renowned for their hop-on, hop-off bus tours that provide travelers with the flexibility to customize their journey. This is especially beneficial when you want to spend more time in an area—though it can prove tricky if you really like your guide and want to stick with them (looking at you Lauren). 

Tour routes cover a wide array of destinations, from iconic tourist spots to hidden gems, ensuring a comprehensive and adventurous exploration of New Zealand. The "Funky Chicken" route, which includes major highlights such as the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Queenstown, and Milford Sound is a popular trip. 

Median Budget: $1,500 | Website: kiwiexperience.com 

Haggis Adventures

Founded in 1993, Haggis Adventures offers tours throughout Scotland, focusing on authentic Scottish experiences with (a lot of) humor and adventure. An affordable option for backpackers trying to maximize their budget, Haggis Adventures attracts young travelers, solo explorers, and those seeking a genuine Scottish adventure. Whether you’re looking to add a day tour to your itinerary or explore more slowly, be prepared to mount your invisible steed and charge a castle, Monty Python style. Slàinte!

Median Budget: $500 - $1,500 | Website: haggisadventures.com

Bamba

Founded in 2005, Bamba offers flexible, adventure-filled travel options across the globe, including Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe. With a wide range of customizable itineraries and hop-on hop-off bus passes, Bamba provides the perfect balance of independence and convenience. Their unique combination of curated experiences and local knowledge ensures that solo travelers can immerse themselves in diverse cultures while meeting like-minded adventurers. From adrenaline-pumping activities to authentic cultural encounters, Bamba makes solo travel both safe and exhilarating, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Median Budget: $500 - $2,000 | Website: bambatravel.com

Contiki

Contiki was founded in 1962 by John Anderson, who wanted to explore Europe but had limited funds. He bought a minibus, gathered a group of travelers, and created an affordable way to see the continent. Contiki now specializes in social and cultural experiences for 18-35-year-olds.

If you backpack for any length of time, you’re likely to meet a traveler who has recently come from or will be going on a Contiki tour. Known for their high-energy tours (as in pack earplugs if you want to sleep early—though let’s be real, you won’t sleep much) and vibrant social atmosphere, Contiki blends thrilling activities, vibrant nightlife, and authentic cultural experiences, all while promoting a social atmosphere that makes it easy to meet fellow travelers. 

Median Budget: $2,200 | Website: contiki.com

Intrepid Travel

Founded in 1989 by two friends, Intrepid Travel began with a simple mission: to offer real-life experiences and adventures. They started with a trip through Africa and have since expanded globally, always maintaining a focus on ethical and sustainable travel.

Intrepid Travel attracts culturally curious travelers of all ages seeking immersive and responsible travel experiences across various destinations worldwide. They focus on sustainable and small-group adventures designed to immerse travelers in local cultures and communities. 

With a commitment to responsible tourism, Intrepid Travel's tours often incorporate homestays, local transport, and authentic culinary experiences. Their itineraries span all continents and cater to a wide demographic of individuals and travel themes including their women only, Women’s Expedition tours. 

Median Budget: $2,500 | Website: intrepidtravel.com

G Adventures

G Adventures, founded in 1990 was born out of a desire to create authentic and sustainable travel experiences. Starting with a single tour to Ecuador, it has grown into a global leader in adventure travel, emphasizing small group sizes and immersive experiences.

With G Adventures, you’ll meet adventurous individuals of all ages who value immersive cultural experiences, sustainable travel practices, and small-group dynamics. G Adventures offers small-group tours that emphasize cultural immersion, local interaction, and responsible travel practices.

Itineraries often include off-the-beaten-path destinations, outdoor activities like hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and wildlife safaris, and opportunities for authentic cultural exchanges. One stand out selling point is their commitment to sustainable and responsible travel.

Median Budget: $2,000 | Website: gadventures.com

In Summary

With so many Backpacking & Adventure solo traveler tour operators to choose from, I hope you’re as excited to book your next solo travel adventure tour as I am to hear about your experiences! 

While not an exhaustive list, each of the above operators brings its own unique history, cultural experience, and independent flair to the travel game, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your wanderlust. 

So, pack your bags (don’t forget your rehydrate packets) and get ready to create memories that will truly last a lifetime! 

Happy Travels!

Comment Below: 

• If you’ve traveled with any of these solo traveler tour operators

• What your experience was (highlights, low points - if any)

• Do you have any other tour operator recommendations

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