Best group travel companies in 2025: which is right for you?

Travel isn’t just about where you go, but who you share the journey with. With so many group options to choose from, we’ve rounded up some of the best group travel companies around – whether you’re looking for high-octane nightlife, cultural immersion, or a solo traveller seeking adventure and deep-rooted connection. 

The below information is based on a deep-dive of customer reviews from four leading group travel companies: Flash Pack, G Adventures, Intrepid Travel and Contiki. Find out more about the difference between each, based on what travellers are saying online:

* This group travel guide is based on recent traveller reviews (2024, 2025) from online travel sites and community forums, including Reddit, Tripadvisor, Trustpilot and top-ranking travel blogs. 

Best group travel companies: at a glance

Based on company website information (Sept 2025) and 2024/5 traveller reviews

 

 

Flash Pack – Best for solo travellers aged 30-49 and 45-59

Overview

Founded in 2014, Flash Pack is a boutique group travel company designed exclusively for solo travellers aged 30-49 and 45-59. Its hallmark is small groups (average 12–14 people), curated itineraries, and stylish boutique hotels. Trips focus on authentic cultural immersion, unique experiences, and fostering connections among like-minded professionals.

Best For

• Solo travellers aged 30-49 and 45-59
• Professionals seeking a balance of adventure, comfort, and style
• Those looking for meaningful connections/friendships and curated group dynamics

Destinations & Experiences

• Global adventures across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania, led by experienced Pack Leaders (local guides)
• Itineraries include immersive cultural experiences and unique, can’t-do-yourself activities (e.g. a night river safari in Borneo, sharing lunch with a sumo wrestler in Japan, horse-back riding in Chilean Patagonia)
• Experiences often feature exclusive “wow moments” like private island glamping, sleepovers in a giant tortoise reserve, or dining in a candlelit cave
• Balance of activity and downtime for reflection, relaxation, and solo exploration

Pricing & Value

• Trips start from around £910 for short trips to an average of around £2,926 per person, per trip** and above for longer adventures (as of 2025)
• Price includes boutique accommodation, most meals (including standout dining experiences/workshops), local Pack Leaders, exclusive activities, and private in-country transport
• International flights extra
• Seen as expensive compared to budget group tours, but travellers praise the value given the comfort, inclusions, and curated group dynamic

Accommodation

• Design-led boutique hotels and unique stays (e.g. contemporary wine hotels, salt lodges in the Andes)
• Careful roommate matching (1–1 sharing) with optional private room upgrade
  
• Accommodation quality described as “absolutely stunning” and often a highlight of the trip

Customer Service & Reviews

• Consistently praised for organisation, attention to detail, local/community immersion and friendly guides
  
• Travellers highlight strong group dynamics, with many forming lasting friendships
  
• High repeat-trip rate — customers often book multiple Flash Pack adventures after their first

Pros & Cons

✅ Small, age-matched groups (average 12 people)
✅ High-quality, boutique accommodation
✅ Unique, immersive activities included in price
✅ Strong sense of community and lasting friendships

❌ More expensive than budget group tours
❌ Not designed for under-30s or travellers seeking nightlife-heavy trips

Verdict

Flash Pack is ideal for solo travellers aged 30-49 and 45-59 who want stylish, authentic, and sociable adventures without compromising on comfort. Its higher price reflects boutique hotels, immersive local itineraries, and a carefully curated group dynamic. For those who can afford it, Flash Pack offers an unmatched combination of adventure, connection, and comfort.

G Adventures – Best for travellers seeking choice and flexibility

Overview

Founded in 1990 in Canada, G Adventures is a major small-group adventure travel company with trips in 100+ countries. Its hallmark is affordability, a wide demographic mix (including 18+, families, and Solo-ish trips), and a focus on local community tourism. Group sizes are usually 12–15 travellers, and the dynamic varies depending on the trip style.

Best For

• Global travellers who value flexibility and choice
• Couples, families, or solo travellers looking to join a mixed-age group
• Adventurers seeking authentic and affordable trips, with the option to add extra activities

Destinations & Experiences

• Global reach: South America, Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, and Oceania
• Tours range from “Classic” budget-friendly trips to premium Geluxe adventures and co-branded National Geographic Journeys
  
• Experiences combine headline sights with optional paid add-ons (rafting, cooking classes, cultural workshops)
• Strong emphasis on community tourism and supporting local businesses

Pricing & Value

• Classic trips: lower upfront cost, fewer inclusions (fewer meals, less activities)
• Geluxe trips: From an average of around £2,520 per person, per trip** for premium Geluxe adventures*, with more inclusions, upgraded hotels, and curated experiences

Accommodation

• Varies widely by trip style: from hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels
• Comfort is functional rather than boutique; focus is on providing an authentic experience, instead of on lavish hotels*
• Geluxe trips provide more stylish and comfortable stays

Customer Service & Reviews

• Widely praised for knowledgeable local guides (or “CEOs”) who keep diverse groups (late-20s to 70s) engaged
• Travellers welcome option of add-on activities, with flexibility to do your own thing
• Reviews highlight involvement in local projects and responsible tourism

Pros & Cons

✅ Affordable base prices, especially on Classic Tours
✅ Huge variety of destinations and trip styles
✅ Strong sustainability and community tourism credentials
✅ Flexible pace with optional add-ons

❌ Group mix can vary widely (age, families, couples, solos together)
❌ Some activities and meals are optional extras, increasing costs

Verdict

G Adventures is best for seasoned travellers who want flexible itineraries, authentic local experiences, and don’t mind a mixed-age group. Its lower prices reflect more basic accommodation and fewer inclusions, but it delivers good value for those happy to build their own adventure from a mix of core highlights and optional extras. Geluxe and specialist trips available for those seeking premium/ activity-specific adventures.

Intrepid Travel – Best for multi-generational appeal

Overview

Founded in 1989, Intrepid Travel, a B Corp company, is a globally recognised small group tour operator, known for responsible and immersive travel experiences, with small groups of between 12-16 travellers. It caters to a wide range of travellers, including solo adventurers, couples, families, and older travellers. Over 50% of its clients are solo travellers, though groups can span all ages, creating a more varied group dynamic than age-specific operators. Intrepid offers trips across all continents, emphasising authentic experiences, cultural immersion, and sustainable tourism. It also offers specialist trips (e.g. women-only expeditions, cruises).

Best For

• Travellers of all ages who enjoy cultural exploration and adventure. This includes families (trips designed by parents for kids), 18-35s, retirees and more
• Travellers seeking flexible itineraries and options for activity/experience levels across different trip styles and price points
• Those interested in sustainable travel and supporting local communities

Destinations & Experiences

• Global adventures across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania
• Itineraries include cultural experiences, trekking, cooking classes, wildlife encounters, and local community interaction
• Trip styles range from Basix (budget-based) to Premium (comfort-focused), attracting different demographics and mindsets
• Flexibility: lower-tier trips include more optional activities, while higher-tier trips feature structured, immersive experiences and higher-quality hotels

Pricing & Value

• Prices vary by trip style and destination
• Intrepid Premium from an average of around £2,886 per person, per trip** and above, Intrepid Basix from around £162 and above* (2025)
• Intrepid Premium inclusions: accommodation, most meals, private in-country transport, guided activities, and tipping. International flights extra

Accommodation

• Offers a wide range from budget hotels and guesthouses to comfortable higher-end stays
• Travellers can choose what type of accommodation they prefer, based on trip style and budget

Customer Service & Reviews

• Guides are local experts, enhancing trips with insider knowledge
• Group dynamics are mixed: solo travellers may be joined by couples, families, and travellers of widely varying ages (18–70+)
• Overall, Intrepid is well-regarded for responsible travel, fun group activities, great tour guides and the chance to meet people worldwide

Pros & Cons

Pros:
✅ Diverse trip styles and destinations
✅ Opportunities for cultural immersion and local engagement
✅ Strong focus on sustainability and responsible tourism
✅ Wide variety of group members for social interaction

Cons:
❌ Group dynamics may feel less cohesive due to wide age range
❌ No option for solo traveller-only groups

Verdict

Intrepid Travel is ideal for travellers of all age ranges who value cultural immersion, flexible itineraries, and responsible travel. Its wide range of trip styles accommodates different comfort levels and budgets. For those seeking a socially diverse, adventure-focused experience, Intrepid offers great variety and global exploration opportunities.

Contiki – Best for younger, social travellers (18–35)

Overview

Founded in 1962, Contiki is one of the most recognisable names in youth group travel. It caters to travellers aged 18–35, running tours in more than 60 countries worldwide. Its known for larger group sizes (typically ~45 people) and a strong focus on fast-paced, social travel, often with an energetic nightlife component.

Best For

• Young, budget-conscious travellers
• Groups of friends or solo travellers seeking a social experience
• Those who want to cover multiple destinations quickly

Destinations & Experiences

• Global coverage, with tours across Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania
• Trips often combine multiple cities in a short period (e.g. 8–10 cities in 2 weeks)
• Emphasis on nightlife and social experiences, alongside sightseeing, cultural highlights and optional activities

Pricing & Value

• Prices range from around £215 for short trips to approx. around £1,214 per person, per trip** and above for longer adventures* (2025)
• Costs typically include accommodation, breakfasts, some dinners, group transport, and a trip manager
• Some meals, nightlife, and optional add-on activities cost extra

Accommodation

• Mix of hostels, budget hotels, and “special stays” (e.g. houseboats, chateaus, camping*)
• Rooms usually shared with 2–6 people
  
• Accommodation is rated as functional and social, rather than luxurious

Customer Service & Reviews

• Generally praised for organisation, energy, and social feel
  
• Travellers enjoy fast-paced trips, with the flexibility of optional add-ons
  
• Feedback notes that the trip style is perfectly suited to its target demographic of younger travellers

Pros & Cons

✅ Affordable and accessible for young travellers
✅ Highly social atmosphere — easy to make friends fast
✅ Wide global reach and lots of tour options

❌ Large group sizes (often 40–50 people)
❌ Fast-paced itineraries may leave little downtime

Verdict

Contiki is best suited for 18–35-year-olds who want a fun, fast, and social introduction to global travel. Its large groups and upbeat culture make it ideal for those who want to meet people and see a lot in a short time. Options available for different kinds of trips, e.g. beach holidays, NYE tours, Pride trips and more.

Group Travel Category Winners

• 🏆 Best for solo travellers aged 30-49 and 45-59: Flash Pack
  (Age-aligned, boutique trips with strong group bonds and curated local experiences)
• 🏆 Best for Best for travellers seeking choice and flexibility: G Adventures
  (Wide trip styles, community-focused, optional add-ons, suitable for mixed groups)
• 🏆 Best for multi-generational appeal: Intrepid Travel
  (Tiered trips from Basix to Premium, sustainable focus, global destinations)
• 🏆 Best for young social travellers (18–35): Contiki
  (Fun, multi-city and destination tours with large social groups)

FAQs: Best group travel companies 2025

Which company is best for solo travellers aged 30–49 and 45–59?
Flash Pack – boutique trips with small, age-aligned groups, immersive experiences, and stylish accommodation.

Which company is best for young travellers aged 18–35?
Contiki – large, social groups with fast-paced itineraries, nightlife, and budget-friendly options.

Which company offers the most choice and flexibility?
G Adventures – wide range of trip styles, optional add-ons, and community-focused experiences.

Which company is best for multi-generational travellers?
Intrepid Travel – small groups, tiered pricing from budget to premium, with specialist trips for families, 18-35s and more.

How do group sizes compare?

• Flash Pack: up to 16 solo travellers
• G Adventures: up to 15 travellers
• Intrepid Travel: up to 16 travellers
• Contiki: up to 53 travellers

What are the typical price ranges?

• Flash Pack: £910 – approx. average £2,926 per person, per trip** and above
• G Adventures: £335– approx. average £2,520 per person, per Geluxe trip** and above
• Intrepid: £162– approx. average £2,886 per person, per Premium trip** and above
• Contiki: £215– approx. average £1,214 per person, per trip** and above 

Are solo travellers welcome?

• Flash Pack: Over 90% travel solo
• G Adventures: Solos, couples, families all welcome, Solo-ish trips available
• Intrepid: Around 50% solo travellers, but groups mix all age groups and friends/couples/families
• Contiki: Mix of solos, couples, and friends

What type of accommodation is included?

• Flash Pack: Boutique and unique “wow” stays
• G Adventures: Ranges from hostels to mid-range hotels (premium Geluxe upgrades available)
• Intrepid: Guesthouses to premium hotels, depending on trip style
• Contiki: Hostels, budget hotels, and “special stays” with shared rooms of 2-6 travellers

What do travellers say in reviews?

• Flash Pack: Strong group bonds, boutique comfort, repeat bookings
• G Adventures: Great local guides, flexibility, community
• Intrepid: Cultural immersion, sustainable focus, age-mixed groups
• Contiki: Fun, social, fast-paced, great for meeting people

How we reviewed this best group tour guide

This group travel guide is based on recent traveller reviews (2024, 2025) from online travel sites and community forums, including Reddit, Tripadvisor, Trustpilot and top-ranking travel blogs. It draws together recent customer feedback on each company provided in the following pieces:

Flash Pack or G Adventures? A look at traveller reviews
Flash Pack or Intrepid? A look at traveller reviews
Flash Pack or Contiki? A look at traveller reviews

*According to information from the company website, as of 1 September 2025. 

** Sept 2025 pricing, subject to change, based on four, similar-length trips from Flash Pack  (8-day Morocco, 7-day Croatia, 14-day Vietnam & Cambodia, 9-day Peru), d G Adventures’ Geluxe (8-day Morocco, 9-day Croatia, 11-day Vietnam, 9-day Peru), Intrepid Premium (9- Day Morocco, 8-day Croatia, 13-day Vietnam & Cambodia, 9-day Peru) and Contiki (8-day Morocco, 9-day Croatia, 11-day Vietnam, 9-day Peru). 

Price/experience/inclusion details are for informational purposes only and based on publicly available sources (websites and customer reviews). Prices and inclusions may change over time.

This article is based on publicly available traveller reviews and information accurate as of 2025. All opinions cited are those of independent travellers. This article does not represent the views of G Adventures, Intrepid or Contiki and is intended for informational purposes only.

Quotes reflect individual traveller experiences and may not represent all customers.