A Holiday4 Summary
G Adventures Review - Tours & Deals
G Adventures is an award-winning independent 'small group' adventure travel company - providing quality guided tours across all seven continents. We delve into what sets G Adventures apart and why it might be the perfect choice for your next travel adventure. We check destinations, value, the booking process and website ease of use.
1. Who are G Adventures guided tours?
G Adventures Ltd is a UK based global tour provider renowned for offering adventurous, flexible and socially responsible guided tours.
G Adventures was established in 1990 by Canadian businessman Bruce Poon Tip. Our research shows the company has evolved into a highly reputable global enterprise - by providing unique 'small group' adventure tour experiences that cater well to customer interests and activity levels.
We found G Adventures strives to provide a unique and genuine travel experience. For example, unlike traditional tour companies that shuttle tourists from place to place in large groups, G Adventures keeps things intimate with group sizes of around 12-16 people.
Smaller groups allow for a more personalised experience, which can help promote a sense of 'togetherness' amongst travellers - smaller groups also help interact more with local cultures and communities.
One of the company's standout features is its emphasis on cultural immersion. Whether it's sharing a meal with a local family in Vietnam, learning traditional cooking methods in Peru, or staying in a rural Moroccan home, G Adventures encourages its travellers to step out of their comfort zones and engage with the communities they visit. We recognize that these experiences not only deepen one's understanding of the destination and local culture but also support local economic growth.
To find out how G Adventures compares to other adventure companies, visit the Top 4 Adventure Holiday Websites review.
Age Groups: The majority of G Adventures clients are young to middle-aged travellers, and some tours are exclusively for independent travellers between the ages of 18 and 39. However, there are also tours available for older travellers, plus child-friendly packages for families.
2. Why choose G Adventures
G Adventures lets you discover the world with a purpose, forging genuine connections with local communities and fellow explorers.
- Flexible itineraries, freedom to explore
- Small groups - locally based guides
- ABTA and ATOL protection, London-based
- Save on tours departing within 60 days
- To find a tour - select your Travel Style
The best thing about a guided tour is it takes the hassle of organising everything yourself - it's also safer to travel solo in a group.
3. How does G Adventures.com work?
Start Planning. The 'wonders of the world' await your discovery, so begin by dreaming big and plan your adventure with a specialist travel provider - who can help make your dreams come true.
As more unique and exciting itineraries become available (especially those using local guides), try to get the most out of a tour by joining one with multiple interests and experiences. Alternatively, consider a tour that takes a 'deeper dive' into the experiences and wonders of a particular country or region.
With a flavour for the types of tours and experiences available, it's now time to 'narrow down' the tours and destinations that interest you most.
Top Tip: To help find your ideal tour, G Adventures has online information guides and dedicated tour search and filter systems. The website also provides destination inspiration, detailed itinerary descriptions, plus tour photographs and videos to help with your selections.
Start Searching: You're about to access over 70 countries across seven continents, with tours catering to (possibly) every travel style and interest - but don't let that scare you!
The G Adventures website is easy to navigate, with recent design updates making it more user-friendly, informative and fresher looking (it also includes an informative and fun "photos from our travellers" section).
There are three ways to start your search. You can search by Destination, Travel Styles or Deals; you then have several filter options to help narrow down and quicken the search process - my favourite search is by Destination!
Searching for tours by Destination
- North America: Canada, United States.
- Central America & Caribbean: Belize, Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua.
- South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Falkland Islands, Galápagos Islands, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Peru, Uruguay.
- Europe: Canary Islands, Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom.
- North Africa & Middle East: Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Oman.
- Africa: Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
- Asia: Bali, Borneo, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam.
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.
- Antarctica: Not as popular as the Canary Islands - but a frozen Eden teeming with wildlife and adventure.
Searching for tours using Travel Styles
This search option allows you to find your tour using the Travel Style categories listed below:
Top Tips:
Most Travel Style categories are self-explanatory; however, some require more explanation - for example, the "Classic" land tour sits between an organised group tour and independent backpacking - allowing you to combine the support and security of group travel with the flexibility in itinerary to "do your own thing".
Alternatively, the "Active" land tour refers to experiences that include hiking, biking and multisporting - with equipment rental and a helping hand included.
Travel Style categories include
- G Adventures Land Tours: Classic, Wellness, Local Living, 18-To-Thirtysomething, Active, Family.
- G Adventures Sailing & Cruises: Galápagos Cruises, Expedition Cruises, Sailing, Amazon River Cruises.
- G Adventures Private Travel: Private Travel options allow you to plan and book a tour just for your group - you can even customise a trip entirely to your liking.
- G Adventures The Geluxe Collection: Adventure Tours that feel like a holiday. Featuring 28 trips across 16 different countries with premium active adventures and added comfort - relating to accommodation & pace. (Peru & Machu Picchu. Walking the Vineyards of Tuscany and Umbria. Egyptian Pyramids, Temples & the Nile)
- National Geographic Journeys: Around 50 tours taking you deeper into cultures and habitats, allowing for greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts and the freedom to roam. (Treasures of Peru & Bolivia. National Parks of the American West)
- National Geographic Family Journeys: These tours include interactive activities inspired by National Geographic's unique legacy and expertise in photography and storytelling, wildlife and conservation, history and culture, and exploration for the family.
- Jane Goodall Collection: A collection centred around 20 wildlife-focused tours endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist. Tours allow you to experience the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants.
- Roamies by Hostelworld: Around 14 small group itineraries to worldwide destinations for 18 to 35-year-old travellers, adventures and fun seekers - staying at quality hostels.
Top Tip: When planning your holiday adventure, you may have questions not answered by the tour's online description. This provides the perfect opportunity to phone the tour provider and speak to an expert travel adviser. Most specialist tour operators encourage contact by phone, especially if you have questions regarding a particular itinerary or tour.
The travel adviser you are connected to should have in-depth knowledge of the tour you are interested in and should be able to answer any general or technical questions you may have. Speaking with a travel advisor can help you make an informed decision - or perhaps help you find alternative experiences you hadn't considered.
Please note. The information listed on this site can change. Always check the exact tour details and terms directly with your travel company before confirming your reservation.
4. Do tours include flights and airfares?
G Adventures do not include flights or airfare costs to join their tours. Travelers arrive from all over the world to begin their adventures, so it's not possible to include international airfares in the tour price. However, we understand the company is happy to help arrange flights if required - please ask for an airfare quote at the same time as making your booking.
Top Tips: To make sure you don't miss the start of your tour (due to possible transport delays or flight rescheduling), consider flying out the day before the tour starts (or earlier if you fancy a pre-tour break). Also, consider flying back home a day or two after your tour ends - for the same reasons.
Joining your tour: It's extremely difficult - if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. Always arrive for the start of your tour well in advance.
5. What is the age range for G Adventures?
We found G Adventures caters to a diverse range of age groups, from 18 to 65 and beyond - with most clients being within the 20 to 50 age bracket. The company offers specialised tours catering to different demographics, such as family-friendly adventures, trips designed for older adults and tours specifically for the young & lively age group (age range 18 to 30).
Below is a list of G Adventures tours that we believe are suited to particular age brackets. You can research the following tours at gadventures.com - simply select the "Travel Styles" option at the top of the page.
- Roamies by Hostelworld: For ages 18 to 35 - designed for younger travellers seeking adventurous experiences with like-minded travellers. These tours often feature active itineraries, budget-friendly accommodations and vibrant nightlife options.
- Families with Children: National Geographic Family Journeys - these tours are designed for parents travelling with children aged seven and up. Family Adventures are crafted to accommodate different ages and interests and typically include family-friendly activities and accommodations. Also, standard (non-family) adventures are open to children aged 12 years or older when accompanied by a parent (max. two children per adult).
- Seniors and Mature Travelers: The G Adventures "Classic" tours appeal to a wide age group, including mature travellers interested in cultural exploration, historical sites and leisurely-paced activities. These tours are graded for their physical requirements: Grades 1 easy, 2 light, 3 average, 4 demanding, 5 challenging. There are over 129 tours available graded 1 to 2 (easy or light), with some tours offering more comfortable accommodations suitable for older adults.
- The Geluxe Collection - Suitable for all age groups, including seniors. These tours are ideal for travellers who prefer the convenience of higher comfort levels without compromising authenticity or adventure. These tours feature premium active adventures, upgraded accommodations and leisurely-paced itineraries, suitable for older adults or those seeking a more relaxed travel experience (see individual tour descriptions for suitability levels).
- Active Tours: For active adults over 18. Most tours have a physical grading of 4 (Demanding) or higher and tend to attract younger to middle-aged adults.
During our research, we found G Adventures strives to create inclusive and welcoming experiences for travellers of all ages, ensuring the majority of adventure seekers can find a tour that matches their interests, preferences and comfort levels - regardless of age.
Please note. The information listed on this site can change. Always check the tour details directly with G Adventures before confirming your reservation. You can contact G Adventures to check a tour's suitability level - relative to your age, fitness and ability.
6. Are tours good for singles and solo travellers?
Our research found G Adventures to be an excellent choice for solo travellers; they also offer the option to share a room with another solo traveller of the same gender (to help reduce costs). This option is known as "twin share" or "room share" and is available on most tours.
Joining a guided tour is a great way for solo travellers to feel safe and meet like-minded people during their travels. We understand that G Adventures aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment for solo travellers, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and included.
Quick Tour facts and traveller types.
- All tours are conducted in English.
- Tours tend to attract many travellers from North America, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Europe.
- Tours are based on providing authentic experiences and are often described as being "off the beaten track".
- Tips are not included in the tour price and tipping is entirely at your discretion.
- We recommend taking a backpack or duffel bag, as suitcases can be cumbersome and difficult to store in buses and under seats.
- Ground Transportation for most tours is made by public transport.
- If travelling solo and you prefer a single room (and it is available to book in advance), a single-room supplement may apply.
- To travel independently, you must be at least 18 years of age.
Top Tip: An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own private room while on tour. The availability, cost and other details of this service may differ between tours - it's recommended that you contact G Adventures directly - or refer to the summary page of each tour for further information.
7. Does G Adventures have Discounts & Last Minute Travel Deals?
G Adventures regularly offers discounts and last-minute travel deals on a variety of their tours. These discounts may include early booking promotions, seasonal sales, flash sales, or specific promotions targeting certain destinations or travel styles.
For travellers flexible with their plans, last-minute deals can provide significant savings on select tours departing within a short timeframe. These deals are often available on G Adventures' website or through their email newsletters, and they typically apply to remaining spaces on upcoming departures.
Student Discounts: Simply verify your student status to receive a £75 travel voucher off your next G Adventure.
Last Minute Travel Deals: G Adventures allows you to "Save Big" with late departures within the next couple of months. With their Last Minute Travel Deals, you can save on a selection of tours departing within 60 days. Check them out using the above link before they start filling up!
Loyalty discount: Enjoy a 5% discount off your next G Adventures holiday by sharing your recent tour experience with G Adventures - simply submit the online form within 4 weeks of the completion of your tour.
Travel Deal Tips:
- New ways to save pop up all the time.
- Check out the "All Travel Deals" section on the website.
- You can view all Last Minute Travel Deals by region and date range.
- You can also view deals by Budget, Duration, Destination and Travel Style.
- "On Sale" reduced prices are conveniently displayed directly below the regular tour price.
- You can filter your Deals Search by selecting available tours by continent.
The information listed on this site can change. Check the latest deals and special offers directly with G Adventures.
8. What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of booking a GAdventures Tour?
Travelling with G Adventures offers numerous benefits, but there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Here's our summary of the pros and cons. Also, factors such as budget, preferred destinations and activity preferences should be taken into account.
Our cons include considerations that 'mean to clarify' certain aspects that can get overlooked. (Always refer to the company website for the latest information and possible updates - terms and conditions apply).
Advantages & Drawbacks
Advantages of booking G Adventures
1. Local Guides: G Adventures employs local and knowledgeable tour leaders who provide guidance, support and access to authentic experiences during the journey.
2. Expertly Designed Itineraries: G Adventures crafts thoughtfully curated itineraries that provide immersive cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
3. Cultural Immersion: We found the company prioritizes authentic cultural experiences, often including opportunities to interact with locals, dine with families, and participate in community projects.
4. Wide Range of Destinations: With tours spanning over 70 countries across all seven continents, G Adventures offers diverse options for travellers with varied interests and preferences.
5. Sustainable Tourism Practices: We found the company supports responsible travel, supporting local communities and minimizing environmental impact.
6. Small Group Sizes: With typically 12-16 travellers per tour, G Adventures offers intimate group settings that can provide more personalised experiences by helping tours interact more with local cultures and communities.
Drawbacks and Considerations
1. Group Dynamics: Traveling in a small group means that (rarely) personalities can clash, and preferences may differ, leading to compromises.
2. Structured Itineraries: Some travellers may find the pace of G Adventures tours to be too fast-paced or structured, with limited downtime or opportunities for spontaneous exploration - however, we recommend reading each tour description carefully, as there are plenty of tours designed to provide specific 'downtime' or 'own time' opportunities.
3. Cost Considerations: While G Adventures offers a range of tour options to suit different budgets, their tours may be more expensive compared to independent travel, especially for budget-conscious travellers. However, you have to weigh in the many extra benefits and experiences a guided tour includes in the cost.
4. Make sure you know what to expect: Keep in mind that some tours require a certain level of fitness and realistic expectations. Some tours are described as "off-the-beaten-path adventures" or might rely solely on public transport for ground transportation (which for 'certain tours' can be unreliable at times). While tours may seem exciting and daring, it's important to understand that they may not be suitable for everyone.
To Sum Up
In summary, Traveling with G Adventures can be an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect meaningfully with others while exploring responsibly. The company provides expertly designed itineraries, small group sizes, experienced tour leaders, and a commitment to sustainability. These features give you the chance to immerse yourself in diverse cultures and discover off-the-beaten-path destinations.
While there may be some limitations, such as structured itineraries and shared accommodations, the benefits of travelling with G Adventures outweigh the drawbacks for many adventurers seeking authentic and enriching travel experiences.