Why You Should Consider a Small Group Tour

Here are my top five reasons why you should consider a small group tour next time you travel

1) The Social Element You Didn't Know You Needed

One of the biggest reasons to consider a small group tour is the built-in community.

I often travel as a solo female, and joining a small group instantly surrounds me with like-minded people who share a passion for culture, food and meaningful exploration. You’re never alone unless you choose to be.

There’s something special about sitting down after a full day of sightseeing and chatting about what surprised you most, what you loved, and where everyone’s off to next. I’ve met some incredible people this way.

Even when I’ve travelled with my partner, he’s loved the social side just as much. Small group touring isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the shared experience.

2) Completely Stress-Free Travel

Another major reason to consider a small group tour is the ease.

Ironically, because I create detailed itineraries for my clients day in and day out, when it comes to my own travels I sometimes just don’t have the time or inclination to research every hotel, guide and transfer.

And I see the same with my busy professional clients. They want to travel well, but they don’t want the admin or even sometimes the worry of having to read into a destination too much. With a small group tour, you know you’re seeing the highlights. You have an expert guide with you. You’re transported from A to B seamlessly. You’re not risking a last-minute online booking with a questionable guide.

You’re simply told what time to meet in the lobby and off you go — with free time still built in so it doesn’t feel overly structured. It’s organised without being rigid, and above all, it removes decision fatigue.

Thea & Ed at the top of Mt Toubkal in Morocco

3) There Will Be a Tour Style and Operator That Suits You

A huge reason to consider small group touring is the sheer variety available.

This isn’t one-size-fits-all travel. There will absolutely be a tour style (and a tour operator) that aligns with what you want from a trip.

Some companies segment by age to ensure like-minded travellers are together. Others differentiate by comfort level, from more budget-conscious adventures through to premium and signature collections with elevated hotels and more inclusions.<

You’ll find specialist tours focused on history, wildlife, food, photography, hiking, cycling or cultural immersion. You can travel with expedition-style brands, National Geographic level experiences, or choose higher-end options where accommodation and inclusions are upgraded throughout.

The reason to consider small group touring is simple: whatever your interests, travel style or pace preference, there is a tour out there designed specifically for that.

4) Access to Destinations That Are Harder to Do Alone

Another key reason to consider a small group tour is access.

There are destinations where travelling independently can be complicated, whether due to visa requirements, logistics or safety considerations.

The Central Asian “Stans” are a brilliant example, where having support with visa processes and border crossings makes the experience significantly smoother. Historically, destinations like North Korea have only really been accessible via organised group tours. In parts of Western Africa or more remote regions off the typical tourist trail, travelling with a reputable operator and experienced local team adds an important layer of reassurance.

Small group tours can open the door to destinations you may not have felt confident tackling alone, allowing you to explore further, and safely.

5) The Exceptional Value of the Overall Experience

The final reason to consider a small group tour isn’t just about cost. It’s about the overall value of the experience.

Yes, group rates can mean strong hotel pricing. But the real value lies in the depth you gain from your guide.

A great guide doesn’t just lead you from site to site. They bring context to history, explain cultural nuances and answer the questions you didn’t even know you had. They can advise you in local markets about whether you’re getting a fair price, steer you away from common scams during your free time, and recommend the restaurant locals actually use rather than the tourist-heavy option.

That insight transforms your trip from sightseeing into genuine understanding. The access, the knowledge, the logistics handled behind the scenes and the local expertise — that’s where the true value lies. And it’s often why clients try one small group tour and then find themselves booking another.

Thea in Jordan on her recent small group tour with G Adventures 

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Have you ever considered a small group tour experience?

For full transparency, my own experiences have included travelling with On The Go Tours, Intrepid Travel, G Adventures and Exodus, among others.

This isn’t something I’ve tried once — it’s become one of my favourite ways to explore the world.

If you’re curious whether a small group tour could suit your next adventure, I’d love to help you find the right one. As your Travel Counsellor, I can guide you towards the operator and style that fits you best.

Get in contact today and let's start creating your perfect trip.