We only partner with the most reliable, reputable and ethical touring operators around the world. Choose from these leading multi-day tour companies, adventure operators and youth based operators best suited to guide you on your next land journey. Compare cruise lines here, and river cruise companies here.
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A lot of our clients aren't too fussed about their accommodation (as long as it's clean and comfortable) and are more interested in the destination. Over 1,200 past client reviews with an average 4.5 out 5 star rating, is impressive. Why? Great value and interesting itineraries. Part of the Globus Family, there are further more great discounts to be had.
Accommodation is 3 to 3/12 star, but a lot of our clients are pleasantly surprised at the quality. Hotels are often located out of the city centre, so prepare your trip budget to allow for transfers or taxis if you want to explore the cities on your own. Allow extra funds for some meals and excursions not included in more premium inclusive itineraries. Like our past clients, we feel very comfortable recommending Cosmos.
Over 250 coach tours around the world, and one of our clients most popular Operators, Trafalgar is part of the Travel Corporation, which includes under its umbrella the sister brands of Insight Vacations, AAT Kings, Uniworld, Contiki & Costsaver. With a worldwide presence along eith local operations in Australasia for many more years, you'll enjoy the company of many nationalities aboard your coach, including those from Downunder. Sitting between Insight and Costsaver, Trafalgar pride themselves in touring innovation, introducing 'Insider Experiences' (where you get to know and dine with the locals) and travel styles to suit those that prefer smaller groups or those that prefer a more leisurely itinerary.
Look out for Trafalgar's Early-payment savings where you can enjoy significant savings on your trip as well as further savings if you are a past passenger on any of the aforementioned sister brands.
The Globus Family of Brands, which includes Globus, Cosmos, Monograms & Avalon Waterways are always popular with our clients. Globus offer a premium guided touring experience all over the world, catering mainly for the 55+ market - but like most Operators are open to all ages. Along with their standard itineraries, Globus more also have a range of popular European Winter Escapes and numerous faith-based religious tours.
The majority if their trips are centred on Europe, Canada and the USA where they provide 4+ star accommodation, luxury coaches, plenty of meals & inclusions. Our team have enjoyed numerous journeys with Globus including trips to South America, Dalmatia, Mexico and Spain, so we have plenty of first hand knowledge to help you plan your next trip!
Upmarket coach touring, with 4.5+ star accommodation, maximum group sizes of 40 on a full size coach and more leisurely paced touring itineraries. The pricing of Insight's trips tends to attract travellers in their 60's and 70's. If you're tall, then you should seriously consider Insight, as their coaches been reconfigured more to allow up to twice as much legroom as on a standard coach. Insight have recently launched trips through South America, and expanded their range of Gold Luxury Vacations, where you can expect the ultimate in luxury and refinement.
We find that the feedback we get back from past clients is sometimes a little critical, and we feel this is because of the very high standard some of our clients are expecting due to Insight's positioning in the market. On every multi-day journey, there will always be little annoyances, but as a whole package the team here definitely recommend Insight worthy of your consideration. If you've travelled with any of its sister brands like AAT Kings, Trafalgar or Uniworld further savings are available.
AAT Kings have partnered with Global Journeys since our inception, and as a result we have an in-depth understanding of all their trips, through both Australia and New Zealand. Our team have journeyed with them on 9 tours through New Zealand, Tasmania, South Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland. That close relationship more also means we can deliver fantastic savings throughout the year.
AAT King's core multi-day coach tours cater mainly for those over 55+, whilst their short breaks in the Northern Territory tend to attract a more diverse range of ages. All coaches are first class, and AAT Kings pride themselves on their tour guides - many of which have been with them for decades!
Initially providing coach touring around Australia and NZ to the local market, APT have grown exponentially over the last decade to now offer trips around the world, and are well known for their European river cruises. Over the last few years APT have introduced small ship expeditions that cruise the waters through Asia, more Europe, Canada and off the coast of Kimberley. Catering primarily for the retired market, their trips aren't cheap, but in APT's case - you get what you pay for.
Look out for their great Fly Free offers, and Earlybird Savings. The team here at Global Journeys have travelled multiple times by coach, cruise & river with APT, and we definitely recommend them as a quality, consistent, reliable Operator, and our past client reviews back that up.
The lesser known, but equally popular Travelmarvel, is the sister brand of APT. Positioned as a premium Operator, but a level down from APT with regards to pricing, inclusions and the age of it's river ships. Travelmarvel & APT share the same past passenger Rewards Scheme, and many of our clients like prefer to spend a more little less, knowing they are still backed by one of Australasia's premier touring companies.
With it's roots in coach touring through Australia and New Zealand, Travelmarvel now offer river cruises in Europe & Asia, tours and cruises in Canada and trips around South & Central America. As Platinum Partners of APT & Travelmarvel, our consulting team have an in-depth knowledge and have personally experienced travelling with Travelmarvel and would relish the opportunity to help organise your next holiday.
CostSaver is Trafalgar's affordable range of coach tours. Comparable to Cosmos in price and quality, their focus has always been on Europe and the UK, but have more recently launched a range of new itineraries in the US, Canada and South America. If you are looking for an affordable touring option, then CostSaver is a great more option, and if you've travelled with any of its sister brands like AAT Kings, Trafalgar or Insight Vacations further savings are available.
The price for that affordability - while all the must-see sights are included, there are lot of optional excursions which can add up quickly if you choose to do them all. If that's likely, perhaps a more inclusive Operator like Trafalgar or Insight is best. However if you like the freedom to explore on your own, and are after a relaxing and hassle-free holiday, then Costsaver is a great option.
Grand Pacific are a little bit different - and enjoy sending more groups to New Zealand than any other Operator. Based in Melbourne, Grand Pacific's focus is solely on New Zealand, and it's this focus that allows them to massage their itineraries each season to continually improve and innovate. Grand Pacific were the first more to introduce luxury small group tours (using specially designed business class coaches) as well as combined coach and cruise itineraries to New Zealand. In that regard many of the other Operators are in catch up mode.
Catering for premium, affordable and luxury travellers there is something for everyone. At least one member of our team here at Global Journeys experiences touring with Grand Pacific first-hand every year, so just ask if you have any queries.
CIE Tours are specialists in guided coach tours through Britain and Ireland. With over 80 years of history the team at CIE certainly have the local ties and experience to deliver you a top notch touring experience through Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England. They have recently dipped their toes into new regions within more Europe, including Iceland, Italy and Spain.
CIE are relatively unknown in the Australasian market but are very popular in the rest of the world, so you're fellow travellers are likely to be from all around the world, but perhaps with more American's onboard than Antipodeans. With itineraries designed to be fully inclusive, putting your hand in your pocket for optional day trips and activities is not something you need to worry about.
Accommodation on each trips sits at the 3 to 3 1/2 star level, with breakfasts (along with many lunches and dinners) also included. There's a maximum group size of 44, but look out for selected departures on selected trips that are designed for small groups. Also keep a lookout for CIE's Last Minute Deals which run year round and offers savings of up to 15% off the normal retail price.
Explore Worldwide is a UK adventure travel company that has been around since 1981. They run over 500 small group tours in more than 100 countries around the world with an average of 12 guests. Accommodation is often family run lodgings and guides are passionate locals. Itineraries are a mix of must-sees and who-knews, more and guests can choose from different trip styles to suit their interests.
Explore recognises that adventure is different for everyone, and their trips range from classic discovery group tours to active adventures such as hiking and cycling. They also have dedicated family trips, themed journeys such as those that focus on wildlife or their limited edition Explore Beyond collection which showcases rare one-off events. Explore have an impressive track record with 96% of past travellers saying they would travel with them again.
Intrepid specialise in small group adventure tours, and feature trips around the globe. With over 700 tours and 50,000 departures, Intrepid's itineraries are designed for the budget conscious adventurer, families and even adventures for those that prefer a bit of comfort at the end of each day. Like G Adventures, Intrepid more also have a myriad of trips through South and Central America & Asia and operate dynamic pricing so prices can change daily - upwards if the trip is filling up, and down if they need to fill some spaces.
Recommending the best Operator for small group adventures is a tough one. It's very subjective and we think a lot depends on the region, the itinerary and the trip leader you get. This will have a huge sway on whether your trip is good, great or average. Our advice is to choose the Operator which has the itinerary and departures dates that suit you best. Look at things like inclusions, group size and other details to help make your decision.
G Adventures have impressed us with their ethos, their range of unique itineraries and proven track record with over 100,000 past travellers. Their main competitor in the adventure touring space is Intrepid, with both Operators focused on authentic, affordable small group tours. With over 600 trips around the world and more 50,000 departures, G have a stunning range of interesting unique itineraries to choose from, with a focus on South and Central America, Asia and Polar expedition cruising.
G Adventures operate dynamic pricing so prices can change daily - upwards if the trip is filling up, and down if they need to fill some spaces. G have also recently incorporated Wellness trips, 18-to-Thirty Somethings adventures and National Georgraphic Signature luxury trips into their portfolio of trip styles.
Albatross are a little bit different to the larger coach Operators, you'll see this when you peruse through their tour itineraries. Designed with leisurely 2, 3, 4 and even 5 night stays, their trips focus on regional discoveries - travelling around 1 to 3 countries in-depth. Albatross focus only on Europe, and split their more tours into two categories - summer trips and winter festive trips. The latter all depart in the winter months (obviously!) and have a maximum 40 passengers per departure, while their European summer range have a maximum group size of 28. Albatross pride themselves on their tour inclusions, so you wont be dipping into your pocket for gratuities and optional excursions.
As their name suggests Blue-Roads itineraries focus on regional tours off the beaten track. Catering for small groups (maximum of 18) they travel through Europe & the UK. While our team at Global Journeys haven't experienced any of their trips first hand, our clients that have chosen to discover Europe with Blue-Roads have more provided glowing reviews on their return. With an eclectic range of trips to choose from - including canal cruises, this small group operator is well worth considering.
A family business based in Adelaide, Bunnik made a name for themselves in small group touring through Egypt, and now travel to all corners of the globe. All of their trips include return flights to and from Australia, so take this into account when comparing prices with other small group Operators. Bunnik tours have been more specifically designed for 'the not too young and not too old' with group sizes set to a maximum of 20, and in Africa even smaller groups of 12. Bunnik trips are currently only offered to Australian residents.
Scenic's 5 star luxury river cruises are well known and popular in Australia (not so much in NZ). Scenic were the first to introduce balconies on their Scenic Space-Ships, which many clients love, but this comes at a cost to interior cabin space. Like many of the other premium river cruise Operators, look out for their more great Fly Free offers, and Earlybird Savings. All inclusive, with Freechoice activities that allow you to choose what you want to do in each port, Scenic also offer a range of luxury additions (like your own Butler) depending on the cabin type select.
Launching in 2018 and with another ship in 2020, the Scenic Eclipse is Scenic's first foray into luxury all inclusive ocean cruising. From the Arctic to Antarctica and everywhere in between, these Discovery Yachts, are all inclusive with shore excursions involving Zodiacs, kayaks and e-bikes as well as the option (for an additional charge) to adventure out by helicopter and submarine!
Over 35? Then Contiki is not for you. With tours and adventures designed for the 18-35's through Asia, Africa, North and South America and Europe, you'll need lots of energy for the good times ahead. Traditionally Contiki trips have been known for their late nights, lots of sleeping on the coach, and some sightseeing on more the side. Contiki's philosophy of #NOREGRETS is about changing your perspective on the world, walking in others shoes, witnessing different cultures, religions, and ways of living. But most of all, it’s about living life out loud, unashamedly and completely, loving every single second of being young!
While new to the Australian market in 2017, Collette have actually been operating since 1918. Offering coach touring and small group explorations around the world, you won't find too many Aussies and Kiwis on their trips yet, but clients of ours that haven taken the plunge over the last season have come back with very positive more reviews. Collette is very popular in the US and now has offices and support in Australia, Canada and the UK too.
Collette market their trips as 4 star accommodation with 5 star service and inclusions - so if that sounds like your cup of tea, then how about this - Collette also includes a roundtrip home to airport chauffeur service for those within a 40km radius of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Darwin, Cairns and Hobart airports.
Luxury Gold (a luxury brand brought to you by Insight Vacations) endeavours to elevate travel beyond the ordinary, bringing you the best escorted experience for the best value. Staying in some of the finest hotels, chosen for their prime location, ambience, and level of luxury, and enjoying meals and wine at some of the more best restaurants the destination has to offer. Insight have recently expanded their range of luxury vacations to include trips through South America, Africa, and Asia - where you can expect the ultimate in luxury and refinement.
With smaller groups (average of 30 but no more than 40 guests - and Asia & South Africa with only 24), relaxed start days, VIP door to door transfers (if you're an Aussie within 50km of an airport) , Luxury Gold offers a seamless stress-free travel experience. If you've travelled with any of its sister brands like AAT Kings, Trafalgar, Insight, Inspiring Journeys or Uniworld further savings are available.
Intro Travel is a specialist in small group adventure tours tailored primarily toward young and young-at-heart travellers seeking authentic, social and immersive experiences around the world. Founded in 2005, they operate award-winning group journeys across Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America and beyond. With experienced more group leaders, carefully curated itineraries and a focus on responsible travel that blends culture, adventure and social connection, Intro Travel is ideal for clients wanting hassle-free, engaging travel with like-minded companions.
Topdeck has undergone a complete brand refresh and their big bus tours are out. An all-new portfolio of small group tours for travellers aged 18 to 32 have been released. There's a maximum of 18 travellers on each trip along with a more targeted age range that has narrowed from 18-39 to 18-32. With a renewed focus on connection, more Topdeck's small group trips prioritise authentic, genuine interactions with fellow travellers. Smaller groups allow for a more connected and personal exploration of each destination and a more inclusive and communal atmosphere.
While Europe makes up the backbone of Topdeck's range, they also run a series of tours through Asia, Egypt, Morocco and New Zealand. Topdeck's new trips take advantage of public transport where they can - like the use trains over coaches to allow more time in key cities and less time spent travelling.
Tasmanian Walking Company is an award-winning Australian operator specialising in fully guided, multi-day walking holidays through Tasmania’s iconic national parks and wilderness areas, with private eco-accommodation and expert local guides. Established and proudly Tasmanian for nearly four decades, their small group walking more experiences balance uncomplicated luxury, hearty chef-designed meals and immersive connection with nature on trails like the Overland Track, Bay of Fires and Three Capes.
Exodus has adventures for everyone. Since their first overland truck journey to Kathmandu in 1974 the brand now showcases over 100 countries around the world. Global Journeys partnered with Exodus in 2019 so there are fewer reviews than you’ll find for other small group adventure brands like Intrepid or G Adventures, however, more we were impressed by their product offering and the positive feedback from their loyal customer base.
Exodus offer small group tours and self-guided journeys that are tailored to suit travellers’ varied interests, from active explorations to wildlife encounters and cultural discoveries. They also cater to a wide demographic, with family tours and the Exodus Edits collection designed for those in their 30s and 40s. Exodus guests will generally enjoy locally owned properties chosen for their character and charm, and these come in all different shapes and sizes. There is also a Premium Collection for travellers who like some extra creature comforts.
Inspiring Journeys is part of The Travel Corporation, so it's sister brands include Trafalgar, Insight Vacations and AAT Kings. As a relative newcomer to the luxury touring market, Inspiring Journeys was developed to rekindle your passion for travel through immersive, boutique experiences. Offering a range of journeys from more 5 to 22 days to the most idyllic, breathtaking and iconic locations in Australia and New Zealand.
Designed for small groups of no more than 20 travellers, with no children under 12. From boutique accommodation to luxury coaches and exclusive experiences; all aspects of an Inspiring Journey have been carefully chosen to provide you with superior treatment.
Journey Beyond is Australia’s premier rail journey operator, offering iconic all-inclusive train experiences on board The Ghan, Indian Pacific and Great Southern that traverse Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes in comfort and style. Known for legendary long-distance routes through the Red Centre, across the Nullarbor more and along the east coast, these multi-day journeys blend scenic rail travel with gourmet dining, off-train excursions and deluxe service. Journey Beyond rail journeys appeal to travellers seeking classic, bucket-list-worthy train adventures that showcase Australia’s diversity and heritage.
Crooked Compass is a boutique travel operator crafting hand-crafted, immersive small group journeys to some of the world’s most off-the-map and culturally rich destinations. Designed for sophisticated, curious travellers who want meaningful experiences beyond typical sightseeing. They specialise in intimate small group more tours (often max 12 guests) and unique Founder's Tours that explore remote regions with deep local insight, ethical engagement and storytelling at the heart of every itinerary.
New to the Australian market in 2017, Tauck began operations in the US over 90 years ago. Offering premium river cruises, land tours, small ship cruises, family adventures and small group journeys around the world. You won't find too many Aussies and Kiwis on their trips yet, as they have only recently opened an office more Downunder, but Tauck are renowned for the quality and inclusiveness of their trips, whether they are on land or water.
What started out as Evergreen Tours in 1980 delivering tours around Australia has grown into Emerald Tours & Cruises, offering journeys by land, river, and sea. Now part of the Scenic Group, Emerald offers a premium alternative to its luxury sister brand. Emerald is to Scenic what Travelmarvel is to APT, with fewer inclusions more and a lower price point than their luxury counterparts.
Guests travelling with Emerald can expect a balance of inclusions, must-sees, and free time for independent exploration. Travellers will enjoy stays in complete comfort, whether this is in premium hotels or on their stylish star-ships. Despite being sister brands, Emerald trips will not count towards Scenic Club membership benefits. However, guests who have completed a Scenic trip may choose to have this count towards their Emerald Explorer membership (but not both programs).
TruTravels is a vibrant small group travel operator known for life-changing, immersive tours across Asia, Europe, Latin America and beyond. With a variety of travel styles - from classic backpacker journeys and Flashpacker comfort tours, to sailing adventures and multi-country packages. With trips designed to combine culture, more adventure and connection with like-minded travellers each itinerary is led by local guides (Tru Leaders) and are perfect for both solo explorers and social travellers.
On the Go are new to Global Journeys in 2019 but have been operating for 20 years. Their range of small group tours have a capacity for 24 passengers but average 14- 18. They welcome an intergenerational, international mix of English speaking travellers. Offering signature, family and festive and festival tours to over more 60 countries, On the Go create culturally immersive tours.
Expert local guides lead you through the highlights of each destination, you will meet the locals, try different modes of transport and spend your nights in 3-4 star accommodation. Your deposit has a lifetime guarantee in the event you need to change your holiday plans.
Wendy Wu Tours is a leading Australian-based escorted tour specialist known for fully inclusive, expert-guided journeys across Asia, Latin America, India and beyond. With over 25 years of destination expertise their tours (max 28) are the go-to choice for travellers seeking an inclusive expereince - with international flights, more accommodation, meals, touring, transportation, transfers and even your visa sorted, all you need to do is get to the airport!
Outback Spirit is one of Australia’s premier small group tour operators, offering all-inclusive journeys through the nation’s most remote and iconic landscapes including the Kimberley, Arnhem Land, Cape York and the Red Centre. With experienced guides, comfortable 4WD coaching and premium lodge stays included, Outback Spirit's more tours focus on immersive nature, culture and wildlife experiences that take clients deeper into the Australian outback with expert logistics and local insight.
Great Journeys New Zealand, part of KiwiRail, specialises in world-class scenic rail and multi-day tours that reveal the best of Aotearoa’s dramatic landscapes from rolling plains and volcanic regions to snow-capped peaks and rugged coastlines. Travellers can choose from iconic rail services like the TranzAlpine, Northern more Explorer and Coastal Pacific paired with guided tours and carefully curated packages that combine comfort, rich scenery and cultural discovery.
Abercrombie & Kent is a globally recognised luxury travel operator offering high-end luxury small group journeys and expedition cruises across more than 100 countries on all seven continents. Renowned for personalised service, insider access, deep local expertise and award-winning experiences, A&K caters to discerning travellers more seeking exceptional comfort, curated cultural immersion and once-in-a-lifetime adventures from safaris to polar expeditions.
50 Degrees North is a boutique Nordic specialist offering small group tours across Scandinavia, Iceland, Greenland, the Arctic and the Baltic states, designed by local Scandinavian specialists with a deep regional knowledge. nown for authentic, responsible travel that goes beyond typical sightseeing, they craft experiences more that showcase culture, nature and iconic highlights like fjords, Northern Lights and Arctic wilderness. With offices in Norway, Australia, North America and Canada they offer 24/7 support whilst your on tour and are ideal for travellers seeking an immersive premium Nordic adventure.