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Does entering the golden years of life mean slowing down in everything for seniors? Absolutely not! In fact, it is THE perfect time to explore America in style.
Whether it’s a relaxing getaway for the weekend or a month-long trip, the perks of traveling are unquestionable for all ages. Your options and opportunities are endless — from cities to countries, or even the whole world is all there to explore.
Here are the travel tour companies for seniors to look into. With their expertise and diverse travel packages, your next adventure awaits.
Why choose senior travel companies for tourism?
The answer is simple. It’s because life is too short for you to have an average vacation, and opting for travel companies for your world adventure is like upgrading your travel game from an economy flight to a first-class private jet.
With their knowledge and expertise, these tour companies understand and meet the unique needs of experienced travelers.
- Comfort: Whether you want a roomier seat, top-notch accommodations, or an itinerary that’s more pampering than your favorite spa day – sit back and leave it up to your travel companies. These companies will be rolling out the red travel carpet for you.
- Itinerary: It’s the secret sauce of senior tour groups. For seniors, traveling isn’t just about ticking off destinations from a bucket list; it’s about savoring every moment at a pace that won’t leave you breathless. And such travel companies have the inside scoop on traveling knowledge to tailor experiences that cater to your taste and personality.
- Logistics: Forget the stress of planning logistics because these tour companies are the maestros of the organization. They handle the nitty-gritty details while you focus on relishing the beauty of a new city, the flavors of new landscapes, or the tranquility of a remote beach: no pressure, no fuss – just pure, absolute enjoyment.
- Travel group: Who you travel with matters! Senior tour companies introduce you to groups of travelers who are like-minded adventurers and share your zest for life. Whether you’re sharing stories over a gourmet meal or laughing your way through a scenic route, you get the company of friends who understand you.
How do you choose the best tour company for seniors?
Here are some quick tips on how you can choose your desired tour companies that ensure quality adventures for you:
Tailored experiences for senior travel
Choose companies that specialize in senior travel. Seek those magical words like “senior-friendly itineraries” or “customized experiences,” fulfilling the unique needs and desires of seasoned travelers and ensuring every moment is tailored to perfection.
Comfort and accessibility
Try to opt for a tour company specializing in an overall ambiance that screams relaxation like cushy accommodations and spacious transport. After all, it’s a vacation where you can enjoy and savor the luxury you’ve earned.
Supportive and expert guides
A tour guide can make or break your experience. Seek out companies that boast knowledgeable guides, those local wizards who can unravel the secrets of a destination while ensuring you’re not left behind in the dust.
Reviews and recommendations
Let fellow travelers be your compass. Check reviews and testimonials for the company’s reliability and customer service from other seniors who have ventured with the company.
Flexibility and pace
Look for companies that value and offer flexibility in the itinerary, allowing for leisurely exploration and optional excursions. A good tour company knows it’s not about rushing but savoring.
Safety measures first
Ensure the company prioritizes safety with measures like well-maintained vehicles, clear communication, and knowledgeable staff because safety is the foundation of carefree adventure.
Transparent pricing
Look for a tour company that provides transparent pricing, outlining what is included and what may incur additional charges. Hidden costs put a brake on your travel mood.
Group dynamics
Great companions can turn an average trip into unforgettable. Opt for companies that attract like-minded individuals for a more enjoyable social experience for you.
Check this article if you want tips for travelling: Top 17 Senior Travel Tips
10 Best Tour Companies for Seniors in the U.S.
The best tour companies stand out for a variety of reasons. Let’s explore some of the highest-rated and most trusted tour companies that shine exceptionally bright regarding the offerings, itineraries, and amenities that serve senior travelers.
1. Road Scholar (formerly known as Elderhostel)
Road Scholar is a perfect fit for curiosity-driven lifelong learners with ages ranging from 50s to 90s, tours spanning more than 100 countries and all 50 states. Program’s themes depend on the type of activity like “Easy Going” (which focuses more on classroom learning), “Outdoor: Challenging” (more physically demanding options) and Grandparent Programs (for grandparents traveling with their grandkids).
2. Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Tours are incredibly inclusive and accessible, with trips that are designed for every type of traveler. Senior travelers in the 50+ age category are among the most interested in its active trips, which include trekking tours (like hiking), cycling trails, and multi-activity adventures. They designs trips that are meant to be enjoyed, and its “Walking & Trekking” is especially popular with seniors.
3. Trafalgar
With a century of experience showing people the world, Trafalgar is one of the travel industry’s largest and most trusted brands. And with 60% of its travelers falling into the 50 to 71 age range, its trips range from short escapes to multi-week tours and cover destinations on six continents. Trafalgar offers various destinations and travel styles: guided tours, river cruising, next-gen and family tours, luxury and customized private tours, and safari and adventure travel.
4. Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.)
O.A.T. offers tours for seniors who are 50+ years old and are curious lifelong learners and adventurers. O.A.T. offers longer adventures to 76 countries on six continents, most over two weeks in length. Seniors can easily match their energy level, ranging from one (easy trips) to five (strenuous journeys). And O.A.T. made itself a leader in solo travel offering solo travelers free or heavily discounted single supplements on trips.
5. Smithsonian Journeys
Like Road Scholar, Smithsonian Journeys allows you to experience the world and understand with educational insights. The typical age range on active tours is 45 to 80, with an average age of 55+. It offers specialized land journeys (a mix of iconic and hidden sights), active outdoor journeys (adventurous and great outdoors), and cultural stays. Smithsonian’s five activity levels are somewhat more demanding – from “Easy” (easy walking) to “Challenging” (climbing).
6. Globus
Globus’ range of touring styles significantly boosts the chance of creating personalized matches between destinations and seniors Glob.us Undiscovered tours are attractive to seasoned travelers who want to take off the beaten path with fewer crowds, and Choice Touring and Independence tours offer various activity choices at each destination. Established more than 90 years ago and ranked among the best travel tour companies, Globus has been a trusted tour specialist.
7. Backroads
Guided tour specialist Backroads, which specializes in guided biking, walking, hiking, and multisport tours to a variety of destinations, is geared toward adults. While tours are open to all ages, most participants tend to be over 50. Backroads’ new Dolce Tempo tours offer a more relaxed pace and easygoing but still provide plenty of fun and adventure.
8. Grand European Travel
Grand European Travel promotes itself as a one-stop shop to help clients plan their desired travel experiences. The company represents a collection of 30 travel brands covering seven continents. Offerings range from budget to luxury getaways and everything from cruises to land tours, whether you’re into all-inclusive European river cruises or exploring U.S. national parks.
9. ElderTreks
ElderTreks is an adventure travel company who offers small-group adventures — wildlife safaris, hiking trips, cultural journeys — designed for people ages 50 and in more than 100 countries. The tours are rated by activity level of the travelers, ranging from one (able to walk for one to two hours) to five (capable of hiking for eight to 10 hours).
10. Adventures Abroad
Adventures Abroad primarily caters to travelers over 50 and operates on every continent except for Antarctica. Trips are rated from one to three based on physical activity; level one (only leisurely walks), two (more time on your feet each day), three trips (hikes on uneven ground at a leisurely pace). Its “soft adventure” trips concentrate on the culture and history of a destination.
A list of best small group tour companies for seniors
Small group tours are for people who prefer to avoid the chaos of large crowds and want to embrace the warmth of a tight-knit community. And for that, small group tour companies offer a personalized experience by catering to your unique personality and taste, turning your journey into a shared tale of discovery.
Some of my recommended best small group tour companies for seniors are mentioned below:
- Devour Food Tours – for tasty food tours around Europe and America
- Kiwi Experience – for hop-on, hop-off bus tour in New Zealand
- Baz Bus – for hop-on, hop-off bus tour in South Africa
- Firebird Tours – for themed-guided tours in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East
- Senior Cycling – for bicycle tours with a group of maximum of 13 participants
- Get Your Guide – for something niche in case of tours, activities, and excursions
- Take Walks – access to attractions and places around Europe and the U.S. you can’t get elsewhere
Top destinations inside America to consider
Among several travel destinations, here are my recommended top 5 senior-friendly destinations with their must-visit places within America:
1. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe has a unique charm among the artsy and vibrant set with its rich history and distinctive architecture.
- The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- The Museum of International Folk Art
- Santa Fe Plaza
- Sangre de Cristo Mountains
- Canyon Road Art District
2. Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg is a town of culture and many historic homes, open to the public for tours.
- Jamestown Settlement
- Old Salem
- Monticello in Charlottesville
3. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is a dreamy city filled with history and Texas charm.
- The San Antonio Botanical Garden
- The River Walk
- Natural Bridge Caverns
4. St. Augustine, Florida
America’s Oldest City is a unique combination of classical city charm and modern amenities.
- The Fountain of Youth Park
- Castillo de San Marcos
- National Monument
- Old Town Trolley Tours for the lowdown
5. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is an easily accessible city known for its biking, hiking trails, and horseback riding.
- The Red Rock Scenic Byway
- The Chapel of the Holy Cross
Narrow your search for travel destinations by reading this article: Senior-Friendly Travel Destinations
River cruises are a great option too
Gliding gently along scenic waterways and unlocking some of the most breathtaking and less-explored landscapes, river cruises allow seniors to savor every moment leisurely. Because traveling for seniors is about enjoying the journey itself with comfort and style.
Let’s say traveling on river cruises is like sailing with a close-knit community rather than getting lost in a sea of people!
Explore more about river cruises in our article: River Cruises for Seniors In the U.S.A. & Beyond
Final thoughts
Now you know why choosing the best senior travel companies for planning your next adventures is a game-changer move that you won’t regret making. Life is too short for you to have cookie-cutter vacations. Having these companies by your side is like having a genie granting every travel wish without the need to rub a lamp.
They turn your vacation into an extraordinary journey tailored to your preferences, making you say, “This is how travel should be!”. So, elevate your travel experience – the senior way!
Relatable Articles for Traveling:
- Vacation Ideas for Seniors This Summer
- Must Know: Hiking for Seniors in the U.S.
- Vacation for Seniors with Limited Mobility
- Top All-Inclusive Resorts for Seniors 2024
FAQs
Which travel agent is best for senior citizens?
When choosing a travel agent for seniors, there are certain factors to consider, such as the level of support provided, accommodation for mobility issues, and the overall pace of the tours. AARP Travel Center, ElderTreks, Road Scholar, Odysseys Unlimited, etc., are some of the best-recommended travel agents for senior citizens.
What is the best tour company for singles over 50?
While personal preferences play a significant role, some tour companies like Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.), Road Scholar, and Just You are highly chosen by solo travelers in the 50+ age group for providing unforgettable experiences. Factors such as social dynamics, group size, and activities catering to a mature and independent audience need to be kept in mind while choosing a tour company.
Who is the best travel agency for cruises?
Intrepid, Viking River Cruises, Expedia Cruises, and A.A.A. Travel are some of the river specialists whose aim is to make it easy for senior travelers to visit multiple cities without lugging suitcases. Always consider the type of cruise experience (e.g., luxury, family-friendly, adventure) and any specific cruise lines or destinations you have in mind.
Which is the best travel agency in the U.S.A.?
The “best” travel agency for a person can vary depending on individual personality, needs, and the type of travel you have been dreaming of. Read reviews, compare prices, and consider their services by finding one that aligns with you. However, several travel agencies in the U.S.A., like Expedia, A.A.A. Travel, Virtuoso, TripAdvisor, and others, are well-regarded for their services and customer satisfaction.
