Contiki has long been one of the most prominent names for youth travel, known for adventures, fun, and unforgettable experiences. Contiki Tours are a favourite for those between 18-35 (their strict age policy), but what if you’re about to go on a group tour with a mix of people over 35?
Contiki might have exciting offerings, but they aren’t for everyone. If you want a more relaxed itinerary that dives deeper into the local elements, many other providers offer tours like Contiki, without the strict limitations. Here are the eight best providers to consider:
1. Topdeck Travel
Topdeck is another popular tourer known for camaraderie and the adventurous spirit. They design tours particularly for young adults, providing a vibrant range of cultural immersion, sightseeing, and socialising opportunities. Their itineraries cater to various preferences, from multi-country tours to short city breaks, making them a fantastic choice for young travellers, even first-timers.
2. One Life Adventures
One Life Adventures is more than just another tour company. They offer extraordinary itineraries, going beyond quintessential tourist spots to delve into the heart of every destination. They craft their tours specially for exploring hidden gems, and mostly cater to smaller group sizes for a more intimate experience.
3. G Adventures
A leading name in sustainable tourism, G Adventures now offers immersive small-group trips, in partnership with HostelWorld. These are the perfect alternative to Contiki tours for those in the 18-35 age range looking for ethical travel and adventure. Called ‘Roamies,’ these small-group tours offer authentic and meaningful interactions with the local cultures—something many modern travellers seek.
4. Intrepid Travel
If you’re more for the authentic, grassroots-level travelling experience, Intrepid Travel is the best alternative to choose. Not only do they offer tours in a diverse range of destinations, but each tour is designed to offer genuine insight into how locals live, and they have a stellar commitment to responsible travel. Whether you’re looking for a culinary adventure, a rugged journey, or some good old historical exploration, Intrepid will have something to satisfy your itch for travel.
5. Travel Talk Tours
Travel Talk Tours has quickly become the leading name for value-for-money experiences, providing a mix of adventure, culture, and socialising within a budget. Their tours are geared primarily towards young travellers who seek cultural enrichment and excitement in an affordable manner. Each tour is designed to offer a deep understanding of the location’s history and culture.
6. INTRO Travel
INTRO Travel is ideal for first-time travellers. Their tours involve visiting new destinations, making connections, and fueling personal growth. INTRO excels in removing all the stress from travel, offering comprehensive support to help new travellers explore properly and make the most of their adventures.
7. TruTravels
For the modern youth, TruTravel is another excellent alternative to Contiki tours. TruTravel is renowned for its youthful and fun-loving nature, providing various tours designed to be more than just a holiday. The company focuses on offering experiences that allow travellers to make new friends, create a lifetime of memories, and explore incredible locations. Hence, their itineraries are often a mix of must-see spots and off-beat, unique pathways.
8. Stoke Travel
If you live for unique travel experiences, something more than just going and visiting a destination, Stoke Travel might be the one for you. The company is known for its party-centric ethos, offering a vibrant atmosphere with festival tours that put you in the middle of dances, celebrations, and once-in-a-lifetime moments. Stoke’s tours are for the young—and the young-at-heart—who want to experience Europe’s most popular parties and festivals. Plus, their accommodations typically include campsites, offering the communal and rustic vibe to the overall tour experience.
Wrapping Up
There’s no denying that Contiki is a giant in this space. Their reputation often precedes them, but their strict age policy and hefty price tags aren’t for everyone. For solo adventurers, the high price is even more problematic, which is why you must consider the fantastic alternatives that offer the same experience, but without all the hassles. Providers like Intrepid Travel, G Adventures, TruTravels, and One Life Adventures are quickly becoming popular for their unique experiences, geared primarily towards youth travellers on a budget. There’s plenty to choose from, so you can enjoy your next trip to its fullest!
