Comparing Organized Travel and Independent Travel

Organized Travel vs Independent Travel

Through the years, we continued to travel independently by taking local buses and trains and hiring a guide once we arrived at the station. Or we’d hire a guide from our guesthouse or walk around town until we found someone that looked good.

We searched for local tour companies in our destination, weighing the price of the tour with our budget. When planning our treks or tours, we asked about every detail regarding what we got with our purchase. Most of the time, we did remarkably well.

We couldn’t have asked for a better guide to Everest Base Camp with our now friend Deep; we saved a bundle climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with Moshi Tours by arriving from the airport and hammering out a deal, and just recently we booked a great tour around the island of Aruba for $20.

The benefits of independent trips include having the flexibility to negotiate prices, decide on our itinerary, and stay at each location for as long as we want. We also had private guides to meet our every need at an affordable price.

Time Vs Independence

The downside of independent travel is the time it requires. When we traveled Southeast Asia, Central America, and Europe independently, we had the luxury of time. We spent entire days searching for a guide or tour company to explore a new mountain or rainforest.

This time allowed us to delve into ruins and historical sites on our own while reading guidebooks. If we felt we didn’t fully grasp the experience, we simply returned with a local guide the next day. Having several weeks or months to travel is when independent travel truly shines.

Choose The Right Tour Company

Many people lack the luxury of time, and that’s where a tour company comes in handy, allowing you to see all the top sights stress-free. However, picking the right tour company tailored to your needs is crucial. Consider the following:

• Do you prefer a large group for safety and social interaction?
• Would you rather have a small group for a more intimate experience?
• Do you want the freedom to explore on your own with ample free time?
• How active is your tour? Are you mobile enough for physical activities?
• Do you have mobility considerations and prefer bus rides over guided walks?

Answering these questions will help determine which tour fits your requirements. Companies like G Adventures or Intrepid Travel are popular for small, active groups, while GoAhead Tours offers a balanced approach for older travelers or those with medical issues.

Small Group Tours

Many travelers hesitate at the thought of large group tours, often envisioning mobs of 30 to 50 people. However, there are many companies providing small group tours that allow you to feel like you’re traveling independently while having someone to guide you through.

Our trip through China with Intrepid Travel remains one of our best memories, with only eight members on the tour, fostering quick friendships. We’re still in touch with Kim, whom we visited in England after the trip.

International Expeditions also specializes in small group tours. On our Amazon cruise, capped at 30 passengers, we were always split into smaller groups for activities, ensuring individual attention and space.

Group Tours are Sometimes Necessary

In certain situations and destinations, a tour company is essential. For example, traveling to Antarctica cannot be done independently, and Greenland poses significant challenges due to its lack of roads connecting villages.

During our independent travels in Asia, we booked an organized tour with Uncle Tans to explore the jungles of Borneo, which showcased the benefits of guided travel.

Sometimes A Guided Trip Makes Sense

For instance, in the Amazon, we were unable to see wildlife on our own. Our guides, however, had trained eyes and brought the wilderness to life for us, ensuring we didn’t miss the experience hidden within the foliage.

The same happened during our visit to Machu Picchu; without prior knowledge, wandering the ruins left us feeling lost. Having a knowledgeable guide transformed our understanding, and it’s definitely worth investing in guided experiences.

Group Travel offers Safety and Security

Throughout our travels, we’ve encountered numerous close calls, including severe illness in various countries. One of the most alarming incidents occurred in the Amazon, where Dave suffered a serious injury.

Organized Tours are Great in an Emergency

Had we been traveling independently during that incident, we would have faced significant challenges. Our tour guides quickly coordinated emergency support, ensuring that help reached us in time.

Times when Organized Trips are a Must

There are particular scenarios where independent travel is feasible, such as backpacking through Southeast Asia or Central America. However, in more complex locations like China, organized tours often enhance the experience by providing cultural insights.

Road Trips

Traveling through English-speaking countries can be economical when road tripping independently. Road trips offer unmatched freedom and flexibility to venture off the beaten path.

Some of our favorite road trips include:

• The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
• Wild Atlantic Way – Tips for Driving Ireland’s Coastal Route
• North Coast 500 – The Ultimate Trip Guide to Scotland’s Epic Drive
• Best Things to do in South Africa
• 18 Great Things to do in Queensland, Australia

Combining road trips with organized day tours or city excursions often enriches the experience.

Know your Limits

When traveling independently, understanding your limits is vital. If you’re new to travel, embarking on an adventure alone might be overwhelming. However, seasoned travelers with adequate skills may find that independent travel suits them.

When to Use a Tour Company

When selecting a tour company, evaluate the cost versus convenience. Often, organized tours in Asia may be pricier than independent travel, while in regions like New Zealand, they may save you money. Ultimately, conducting thorough research based on your preferences is key.

We enjoy a blend of travel styles; just ensure you’re comfortable on your journey.

This post is in partnership with IETravel. For more information on Amazon Expeditions, look to International Expeditions, a leader in Nature Travel.