adventure travel companies for families

10 Best Tour Companies for Family Tours in 2024

Family tours are a fun and hassle-free way to see the world with your kids in 2024..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

The best family vacation ideas create the kind of formative memories that stay with kids all the way into adulthood. But planning those memorable family travel adventures can be exhausting, especially when simply trying to choose a restaurant for dinner can ignite bickering. That’s why parents often choose family tours, which eliminate almost all the hassles from the vacation planning process.

When you travel on guided family tours, you get knowledgeable leaders privy to locals-only spots and hidden gems you’d probably never find on your own. They handle all the tedious details and decisions before you depart and organize everything during your trip, freeing you to simply have fun. Guided family tours almost always include accommodations and at least some meals for the ultimate in vacation ease.

2024’s Best Family Travel Tour Companies for Group Tours and Private Tours

While family group tours are not for everyone, they’re a great option for families who enjoy mingling with others as they explore the world. Here are my most highly recommended picks for 2024’s best family tour companies operating in popular family vacation spots in the U.S. , Europe , the Caribbean , and around the world.

WORLD’S BEST:  15 Best Group Travel Companies for Guided Tours in 2024

1. Adventures by Disney

Disney and families go together like milk and cookies, so it’s no wonder  Adventures by Disney  (ABD) is a leading provider of family tours. Adventures by Disney offers more than 40 family adventures to destinations on all seven continents. Most of ABD’s tours for geared toward families, but the company does offer a few adult-exclusive itineraries as well. Adventures by Disney’s guided family tours are led by knowledgeable Disney-trained trip leaders called Adventure Guides, who take care to every detail and ensure a memorable vacation from start to finish. 

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You can expect Disney’s trademark magic to shine through with special activities for children, exceptional service, and VIP experiences such as up-close photos with the Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt, sailing past polar bears in the Arctic, and horseback riding in the shadows of the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Park. After your first trip, you’ll be eligible to join the company’s Adventurer Insiders program for special savings on trips throughout the year. 

Quick Facts about Family Tours with Adventures by Disney

• Average guided tour group size:  30 people.
• Price category:  Upscale.
• What’s included:  Disney-trained Adventure Guides, family-friendly accommodations, transfers, most meals, and gratuities for housekeeping, drivers, and waitstaff.
• What’s not included:  Airfare, alcohol unless specifically noted, and gratuities for your Adventure Guides.
• Primary audience:  Families.
• Destinations:  More than 40 destinations across all seven continents.

2. Family Tours from G Adventures

Tour operator G Adventures  believes travel can change the world, and its family guided tours aim to open the world to kids by introducing them to diverse people and cultures. The company also offers exclusive tours in partnership with National Geographic, which means adventure-loving families with children age seven and older who are interested in wildlife, photography, and geography can book a  National Geographic Family Journey with G Adventures to places like Iceland, Morocco, and Alaska.

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G Adventures has a range of small group tours for families to suit most travel styles and ages, including hard-to-please teens and tweens. Most trips blend must-see destination highlights with meaningful cultural exchange. Enthusiastic guides are hand-selected for their desire to work with families.

Quick Facts about Family Tours with G Adventures

• Average guided tour group size:  12 people.
• Price category :  Moderate.
• What’s included:  Accommodations and some meals.
• What’s not included:  Airfare.
• Primary audience:  Family tours are generally appropriate for ages six and up.
• Destinations:  More than 750 trips in 100+ countries across all seven continents.
• More tours: 10 Best G Adventures Tours to Take in 2024

3. Family Tours from Trafalgar

From family tours to foodie adventures to safaris, Trafalgar has an itinerary to fit your style. All of Trafalgar’s tour directors have at least three years of road experience, and many have been with the company for decades. Tours cover all accommodations (typically four-star hotels) and most meals, activities, and transportation during your trip. One-of-a-kind experiences such as dining with locals, sleeping in a castle, and VIP entry to iconic sights sweeten the deal. 

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Children as young as five are welcome on Trafalgar’s travel tours for families. Notably, Trafalgar also offers single-parent vacations . From meeting a real-life cowboy in the American West to experiencing life as a gladiator in Rome to letting your inner Harry Potter loose in England, the company’s family vacations provide adventure for all ages. ( Read our full Trafalgar review here .)

Quick Facts about Family Travel Tours with Trafalgar

• Average guided tour group size:  40 people.
• Price category:  Moderate.
• What’s included:  Accommodations, daily breakfast, many meals,   luxury coach transportation, Wi-Fi in most countries, airport transfers, and luggage handling.
• What’s not included:  Airfare.
• Primary audience:  Family tours are generally appropriate for ages five and up.
• Destinations:  All seven continents, with kid-friendly trips to Europe, Britain, and the American West among the most popular options for families.
• More tours: 10 Best Trafalgar Tours to Take in 2024

4. Intrepid Travel’s Family Tours

Responsible, experience-rich travel is a mission at not-for-profit  Intrepid Travel , with small group trips geared to young adults, women, solo travelers, active travelers, and families. On its family tours, groups are made up of three to five families from all over the world, plus a guide. Many participants have an interest in the preservation of indigenous cultures, climate education, and conservation, so fast friendships with like-minded participants tend to develop quickly.  

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Personal connections with locals are an integral part of the Intrepid experience: Kicking a football with Massai tribesmen in Kenya, learning about indigenous cultures in Costa Rica, and baking bread from a traditional recipe with a Berber family in Morocco are just a few examples. Family trips prioritize kid-friendly hotels with swimming pools and activities like riding in a tuk-tuk through the streets of Bangkok or searching for wildlife with a wolf tracker in Yellowstone National Park. 

Quick Facts about Family Tours with Intrepid

• Average guided tour group size : 12 people.
• Price category:  Budget.
• What’s included:  Accommodation, local transport, and some meals.
• What’s not included:  Airfare, travel insurance, and tips.
• Primary audience : Middle-age females and solo travelers, though families are well represented; some tours are geared specifically towards families.
• Destinations : More than 1,000 trips to 100 countries across all seven continents.

5. Luxury Family Tours with Abercrombie & Kent

Group tour operator Abercrombie & Kent  pioneered the concept of luxury small-group travel more than 60 years ago, and today the company continues to lead the pack with small group journeys to more than 100 countries and on all seven continents. Highlights include wildlife safaris to Kenya and Tanzania, history-focused trips to Israel, and Peruvian explorations to Machu Picchu. On family tours with Abercrombie & Kent, a Resident Tour Director remains with the group throughout, facilitating a richer understanding of local customs. He or she is assisted by specialized local guides who encourage guests to take a meaningful dive into immersive insider experiences.

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Your tour price includes everything from meals to activities to hotels, which are high-end properties suitable for discerning guests. Mid-journey laundry service, luggage transfers, and Internet are also included. Participants are often Gen X and baby boomer couples. The company’s luxury family itineraries to places like Costa Rica and the Galapagos are timed with school breaks . 

Quick Facts about Luxury Family Travel Tours with Abercrombie & Kent

• Average guided tour group size:  14 people.
• Price category:  Upscale.
• What’s included:  Inter-itinerary flights, accommodations, luggage transfers, meals, mid-journey laundry, activities, and expert guides.
• What’s not included:  Airfare to and from your destination, though a flight concierge is available 24/7 to assist with airline delays.
• Primary audience:  Gen X, boomers, and multigenerational families.
• Destinations:  More than 100 countries across all seven continents.

6. Butterfield & Robinson’s Family Tours

Guided tours with Butterfield & Robinson often include biking and hiking, though you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy strolling a serene country lane or pedaling an e-bike on a flat path. The company’s family adventures cater to children as young as eight and are designed and test-driven by actual parents to prioritize a balance of family togetherness and adults-only time . Families with older kids will also find special itineraries for traveling with teens and young adult children. A walking trip in Peru or biking in Cambodia and Vietnam allows your family to bond in a whole new way.

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The presence of other young people creates the opportunity for peer friendships to blossom, though all of the company’s family tours leave room for independent activities and cultural experiences, so you’re not tethered to the group. On Butterfield & Robinson trips, accommodations are curated to fit the region you’re visiting; you’ll never stay at a cookie-cutter chain hotel. And while meticulous planning goes into each trip, you can expect impromptu pit stops and last-minute simple pleasures that make travel so worthwhile. 

Quick Facts about Family Travel Adventures with Butterfield & Robinson

• Average guided tour group size:  10 people.
• What’s included:  Accommodation, meals, wine/drinks, and guides.
• What’s not included:  airfare, pre- and post-trip accommodation, and travel insurance .
• Primary audience:  Butterfield & Robinson’s family tours are geared toward active travelers who want to dig deeper into a destination.
• Destinations:  55 countries across six continents.

7. Family Tours with REI Adventures

If you love fresh air family adventures that celebrate America’s rich natural beauty,  REI ‘s guided family tours will fit like a glove. Kayaking, hiking, and biking in the U.S. are their specialty. There are typically two guides on every trip, and they know the secret swimming holes, the primo selfie spots, and exactly what species of bird is singing in the early morning. The guides do it all from prepping meals to sharing information about wildlife. 

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REI offers trips for hard-core adventurers, solo and female travelers, and active families. Travelers with children ages eight to 17 may select small group adventures specifically for families, like hiking in Yosemite National Park, kayaking in the San Juan Islands, or trying a treetop aerial challenge course in the Great Smoky Mountains. Guides on family tours are trained to keep kids engaged. On some trips you’ll camp under the stars in comfy tents (your guides will set up the tents); on other trips you’ll sleep in comfortable lodges. REI members receive a discount, as do children. 

Quick Facts about Family Travel Tours with REI Adventures

• What’s included:  Camping gear, meals, and national park fees.
• What’s not included:  Transportation to the trip’s starting point.
• Primary audience:  Family tours are geared toward kids ages eight to 17 years old.
• Destinations:  Eight states including Wyoming, Alaska, and California.

8. Road Scholar

Not-for-profit  Road Scholar  trips attract lifelong learners who are keen to plunge beneath the surface rather than just skim it. The company caters to baby boomers and seniors, with programs for skip-gen vacations (grandparents and grandkids traveling together) and multigenerational vacations (grandparents, parents, and grandkids traveling together). These trips present multiple opportunities for adults and kids to learn together. But while incorporating learning into a family vacation can be a welcome benefit, the kids will be having so much fun they may not realize how much knowledge they’re absorbing. 

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All of Road Scholar’s family tours have two group leaders who know how to appeal to varying ages, interests, and attention spans. They take care of logistics while local instructors add expertise on a range of topics. Mount Rushmore and the Badlands ,   whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon , and  discovering iconic landmarks in Paris  are some of the most sought-after family itineraries . 

Quick Facts about Family Tours with Road Scholar

• Average guided tour group size:  22
• Price category :  Moderate 
• What’s included:  Accommodations, most meals, hands-on experiences, gratuities throughout the program, and the Road Scholar Assurance Plan
• What’s not included:  Travel to and from the program and trip cancellation insurance 
• Primary audience:  Baby boomers and seniors, including grandparents traveling with their grandkids
• Destinations:  150 countries and all 50 states in the U.S.

9. Tauck Bridges

Family-owned  Tauck  has been offering epic guided vacations for nearly 100 years. In 2003, the company launched its family travel tours called Tauck Bridges , which are designed for family travelers of all ages (parents with kids, skip-gen trips for kids with grandparents, all three generations traveling together, etc.) with 20 itineraries in North America, Europe, Latin America, and Africa. Highlights include exploring the Alps, listening to Irish music, and viewing slot canyons in the American West.

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The distinguishing factor of these family tours is they’re created with an eye toward engaging all generations so that everyone in the family will have a great time. Tauck’s trip guides are known for their personal touch and have expertise in local customs, traditions, flora, and fauna. Meals and hotels are always top-notch.

Quick Facts about Family Tours with Tauck Bridges

• Average guided tour group size:  35 people.
• Price category :  Upscale.
• What’s included:  Gratuities, sightseeing and admissions, most meals, airport handling, luggage transfer, and taxes.
• What’s not included:  Airfare and adult beverages.
• Primary audience:  Tauck’s family tours cater to multiple generations traveling together.
• Destinations:  More than 100 destinations in 70+ countries across all seven continents.

10. Family Travel Adventures with Austin Adventures

Tour operator Austin Adventures  forged its reputation by specializing in tours to America’s national parks, and the company remains an expert in this area. Its guided group family trips are ideal for anyone who gravitates towards hidden gems and the lesser-known side of national parks. If you book a trip to Yellowstone, for example, of course you’ll watch Old Faithful erupt—but you’ll also hike a semi-secret trail. Activities such as rafting and zip lining up the fun factor for kids.

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Guides are first-aid certified, and with a 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, there’s plenty of time to chat and get acquainted. The guides on family tours, some of whom are teachers during the school year, know how to plan kid-friendly activities that allow parents time to relax. All but one meal is included, presenting the opportunity to have an evening on your own or perhaps with newfound friends. Austin Adventures offers popular family tours to bucket-list destinations like the Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park, and New Zealand.

Quick Facts about Small Group Family Adventures with Austin Adventures 

• Average guided tour group size: 12 people.
• What’s included:  Meals and snacks except for one dinner, any necessary equipment and gear, and accommodations.
• What’s not included:  Airfare to your destination, gratuities for guides, alcoholic beverages, and one dinner.
• Primary audience:  Its family tours are best enjoyed by active families.
• Destinations:  21 countries in North America, Europe, South America, and Africa.

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Tour Scoop’s team of travel experts brings you in-depth tour company overviews, tour itinerary reviews, the latest tour news, and travel tips and advice written just for guided tour travelers like you.

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7 Companies You Can Trust for Great Family Vacation Packages

Updated January 9, 2023

Planning a successful family vacation is work—but not if you let a packager do the work for you. Buying a vacation through a tour operator frees you from the tedious details of deciding where to stay, what to eat, when to visit each attraction, and how to get to each place. Travel packagers take care of all the logistics, and truly expert ones know their destinations deeply, so their inside knowledge may even be able to provide you with special perks. We like these seven tour operators’ family trips—they cover a variety of destinations, styles, group sizes, and prices, and they have proven themselves with families over the years.

Austin Adventures keeps groups small: It aims for a 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio and vets those guides for charisma, making sure the leader has a personality kids will want to follow. Family groups explore Europe, New Zealand , Latin America, and North American national parks (a company specialty). Austin excels in outdoorsy outings such as horseback riding, glacier trekking, kayaking, and bicycling (always on trails, never on highways). The company strives to add excitement with what it calls unexpected “wow moments”—like the reward of ice cream and brownies served after a hike to the top of Angels Landing in Bryce National Park. Many trips follow a 6-day/5-night schedule plan, although international tours are longer. On departures for families with teens, expect more pedaling, paddling, and hiking to panoramic views, such as in the San Juan Islands , Yellowstone National Park , and the Kenai Fjords region. 

Kids’ ages:  6–12 (Alaska: min. age 7); 13+ for family teen trips Group size: 12–18

Tauck , founded in 1925, launched Bridges in 2004 to cater to the family market through deeper cultural experiences. In Rome , visit the Sistine Chapel after hours without herds of tourists (pictured); in Cusco , Peru, make chocolate; and in London , zoom along the Thames in a speedboat. On Tauck’s increasingly popular European river boat family departures (the company owns its own vessels), visit multiple destinations but unpack only once. In port, you and your kids bike through the countryside, learn to make marzipan, and visit a Camargue ranch to meet cowboys and their legendary white horses. On board, kids fly kites, cook with the chef, and learn local phrases. For cruises, Tauck adds three guides and a family host to the ship’s standard staff. For land trips, one driver/escort leads. 

Kids’ ages: 8–17 Group size: 40 (up to 130 on river cruises)

Originally known as R Family Vacations and rebranded as KelliGregg Travel in 2022, this inclusive company gears trips toward LGBTQ+ travelers and their kids, friends, relatives, and allies. In addition to expanding its offerings for grown-ups, KelliGregg continues to organize its summer highlight under the R Family banner: a big cruise featuring show tunes, LGBTQ+ comedy acts, family dance parties, theater camp, outdoor adventures, and a lot more. 

Kids’ ages: any age Group size: varies per trip type

There’s something special about having a friend in a foreign destination. Thomson Family Adventures creates that connection with Friends Across Borders, a digital pen pal initiative available for families who book many of its trips. Your kids correspond ahead of time with local children whom they then meet during the journey. In places with scarce internet and computer access, ground partners personally print and deliver messages. The goal is to immerse kids in the culture, whether it's through activities such as swimming with whale sharks in Baja , sailing in Ireland , or hiking in the Andes (pictured). Some trips cater to families with teens or multigenerational participants. On departures with more than eight people, a Rafiki (Swahili for friend) travels along to keep the kids engaged. Trips always have one driver and one guide.   

Kids’ ages: 8–16 typically (some trips accept younger kids) Group size: 8–12

Among the more than 50 itineraries in over 40 countries visited by  Adventures by Disney , you can count on getting hands-on local experiences, guides with a gift for storytelling, and time built into the schedule for parents and kids to be both together and apart. You and your children might craft bento boxes at a Japanese cooking school, try archery at a Scottish estate, and learn hurling in Ireland. At other times, adults might sample wines at a vineyard in Tuscany while kids are taken to pick herbs for infusing olive oil. During adults-only dinner nights, kids grab a meal and watch a Disney movie. Daily activities are focused on local culture, not Disney characters—although you may expect a few surprise appearances from those along the way. Tours of Southern California grant private access to the Walt Disney Studios & Archives and Jim Henson Studios, which are normally closed to the public. In Europe, Disney partners with AmaWaterways for river cruises. Overall, many ABD trips are 8 days/7 nights, but the company also operates shorter Escapes that can be booked on their own or added to an itinerary. 

Kids’ ages: 6+ (though kids as young as 4 may be allowed depending on the trip) Group size: 38–40

The Sierra Club , one of the oldest U.S. conservation organizations, calls its trips “adventures for a cause.” By leading organized rafting, hiking, canoeing, and volunteering vacations for families, the Sierra Club connects kids to the outdoors, hoping to turn them into future protectors of the environment. Family excursions explore the United States: Wind down rivers in Utah, Oregon, and Idaho (pictured); or base your brood at an Adirondacks’ lodge for hiking, canoeing, swimming, and mountain biking. On service trips you might do things like clearing trails in the Tahoe National Forest or working with animals on a Pennsylvania farm. On Sierra Club Outings, the naturalist leaders are volunteers. 

Kids’ ages: 6+, depending on the trip Group size: 12–15 (up to 24 for raft trips)

National Geographic Family Journeys (in partnership with G Adventures) were launched in 2020 as a subset of Nat Geo's 300 or so vacations for a general audience. These family-specific itineraries are developed alongside experts such as scientists and researchers, who emphasize sustainability and supporting local culture. On these trips, you and your kids might taste-test noodles cooked by teens learning culinary arts in Hoi An, Vietnam (pictured); plant seedlings at a tree nursery in Costa Rica; or fashion your own Carnival mask in Venice . Pre-departure, parents receive field guides with advice on sparking children’s interest in the area, and kids get tips on photographic storytelling. Two “Chief Experience Officers” (aka enthusiastic guides) lead families through the 8- to 13-day itineraries in Vietnam, Cambodia, Iceland, France, Costa Rica, Peru, Alaska, and other adventurous places. 

Kids’ ages: 7–17 Group size: 20 

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Family-friendly adventures & stress free travel

Just because you’ve had kids, doesn’t mean your traveling days are over. We’ll take you to the best family vacation spots and beyond, with family-friendly stays and experiences that will spark the joy of travel, make real connections, and excite the whole family.

Adventure for all ages

Our family getaways feature experiences that keep everyone happy, from little ones to teenagers and adults. Visit the Harry Potter highlights like Platform 9¾, sail around the Greek Islands, become a medieval archer in Ireland or an archery pro in England, learn how to make (and eat!) pizza in Italy, or go ziplining on the slopes of a volcano in Costa Rica.

Enriching experiences

Inspire your family’s sense of adventure and watch your children light up with wonder. The best family vacations are full of pinch-me moments, like staying in an ancient castle in Wales or a ranch in the Wild West of America. Learn about wildlife conservation in Costa Rica, experience life on a family farm in Ireland, or learn about Roman history by transforming into a gladiator!

Taking the stress out of travel

With all the logistics and must-do experiences covered, the only thing you need to worry about is having fun, together. Expect quality stays, luxury transport and plenty of meals included - and that means a whole lot of full tummies and happy faces. Our expert Travel Directors unlock the magic of travel at every turn, so you can focus on making memories and exploring the world together.

All you need to know about Family Tours

How can i travel with my family on a budget.

With kid-friendly accommodation, meals and transport included on our family vacations, you can easily stick to your budget and focus on having fun. We also include all the must-do experiences, and let you know all the optional experiences before your family tour, so you won’t be hit with any surprise costs.

What's the best family vacation destination?

Family friendly vacations can be found all over the world, from the outback of the United States to the jungles of Costa Rica to the islands of Greece. Some of our favorite family vacation spots include Italy, Switzerland, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Costa Rica and the United States.

What are good family trips?

The best family vacations include adventures that are fun for the whole family. We love family beach vacations to places like Greece and Costa Rica, historical adventures like experiencing life as a gladiator in Italy, and nature trips like boarding an Old West train to the Grand Canyon.

Why is family travel important?

Travel is one of life’s greatest teachers. From grandparents to kids, everyone will learn new skills and discover a world of cultures and new ideas while spending precious time together, like only family vacations can bring. Your journey will also inspire a sense of wonder and connection for all, and we think that’s one of the most valuable things you can have in life.

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Family Travel

Tauck Bridges trips are designed for family travelers of all ages and generations to enjoy together. From celebrating different cultures and traditions, discovering natural wonders and learning about history firsthand, these trips help build bridges of understanding between young and old, locals and travelers, all over the world. They are also designed to include interactive experiences that not only invite everyone's participation, they're lots of fun for every age and generation!

• Family Land Journeys
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Celebrating 20 years in enriching guided family travel

  When we launched Tauck Bridges in 2003, we had one goal in mind: to craft guided family-oriented trips that every age and generation would enjoy experiencing together. Shared enrichment is the watchword of our family brand and each of our trips is designed to show families the world differently than anyone else.

Unlike travel companies that offer separate programs and activities for kids and adults, our family guests experience the fun together, not apart. Each journey is led by a dedicated Tauck Director hand-picked for their experience with family travelers and for their passion and expertise in travel. They take care of all the day to day travel details of every trip, even tipping, so that families are free to experience the joys of travel without any of the work– or the worries.

Fully planned and all inclusive

With a knowledgeable Tauck Director leading the way, everyone can feel like a kid again. Enjoy activities designed for family fun and shared enrichment, as you experience the essence of the destinations you explore together.

Memorable Experiences

Imagine visiting the Louvre and the Sistine Chapel, after hours, without crowds. Or snorkeling with seals near tropical islands time forgot. You can ride gondolas, vintage Fiats, horses, and a special Ice Explorer; flightsee over an Alaska mountain and Lake Powell; and learn to waltz in a private Viennese palace. All included and all awesome to experience with your family.

Milestone Moments

From birthday, anniversary and graduation celebrations to family reunions for the whole clan, Tauck Bridges marks the occasion with unforgettable experiences and meaningful moments you'll long remember.

Closer Connections

Travel has a way of bringing the world closer, bridging generations and cultures like few experiences can. To foster connections with the people and places of the destinations your family will discover, you'll cook with chefs, saddle up with cowboys, meet schoolchildren in Peru and the Maasai in Tanzania, and more, sharing memories that last lifetimes.

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50 bucket list family adventure trips.

Forge lifelong memories on a one-of-a-kind journey together.

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Take the kids on the transformative trip of a lifetime.

Whether you want to push your limits on a heart-pounding African safari, surf trip, ski retreat or national park vacation, there are plenty of boundary-pushing vacations well-suited for families of all ages, interests and budgets. While some places cater to clans craving enrichment with cultural cred and striking natural wonders, others lure thrill-seeking families in pursuit of adrenaline-pumping activities and wildlife encounters in far-flung locales. No matter your goal, the best memories will be "when you're taking in awe-inspiring sights and doing things you never knew were possible," says Leigh Barnes, the North America regional director at Intrepid Travel, an adventure outfitter. With that in mind, these 50 once-in-a-lifetime trips are guaranteed to give you – and the kids – a fresh perspective.

While San Diego may not spring to mind as an outside-the-box bucket list vacation destination, with ample opportunities to learn to surf along gentle breaks, a spectacular 70-mile coastline and an iconic zoo filled with 3,500 fascinating animals and a safari park in nearby Escondido, the Southern California hot spot is a crowd-pleasing playground for thrill-seekers of all ages. Head to La Jolla to take a lesson at an acclaimed surf school or catch pros skimming the waves. And for more leisurely outdoor exploration, tag along on a sailing lesson at Mission Bay Aquatic Center, visit Balboa Park or grab your camera and take family photos at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park as the sun goes down.

Oahu, Hawaii

You may associate the Aloha State with seaside landscapes, opulent hotels and secluded sands filled with honeymooners. But here's a secret: Oahu's famous North Shore offers plenty of unforgettable, action-packed experiences for adventure-loving broods. In winter, the area draws pro surfers with its massive swells. But if you arrive in summer, you can enjoy calmer waves and learn how to skim the waves together. At Turtle Bay Resort , you and the kids can enjoy private or group surf lessons, take guided surf tours, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or bond while kayaking, horseback riding or biking. After soaking in the great outdoors, check out must-see historical attractions, like 'Iolani Palace and Pearl Harbor in Honolulu.

In Sydney , you'll find rip-roaring adventures catering to every adventurer in your group. After visiting classic attractions such as the Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach, embark on a kayaking expedition in the harbor or venture to Sydney Olympic Park, where you and the kids can swing across a zip line or take an archery lesson. For more thrilling pursuits, hike in the nearby Blue Mountains (about a two-hour train ride from Sydney), where you can marvel at the Three Sisters rock formation and inspiring waterfalls. And if you're traveling with animal lovers, you can't miss checking out the Australian Reptile Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (about an hour drive outside of the city), which houses kangaroos, koalas and wombats.

Costa Rica offers endless opportunities for exhilarating encounters in the wild. While daredevils may want to glide through a canopy of trees on a zip line, nature enthusiasts can take in enchanting butterfly farms or hike through lush rainforests. Jeremy Brady, the national sales manager at small-group adventure tour outfitter G Adventures, suggests Costa Rica for families with kids under age 10 looking for a blend of high-octane activity, cultural immersion and wildlife-viewing. Get your heart racing as you zip line or stroll along the misty Sky Walk (a hanging bridge) through Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, which teems with howler monkeys, colorful birds, sloths and 2,500 plant species. Then soak in the sunshine and surf along the Nicoya Peninsula.

With dramatic glaciers, fascinating wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes, Alaska captivates nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're dreaming of catching sight of the northern lights or cruising past glaciers and whale-filled waters in Kenai Fjords National Park, you have plenty of reasons to take the kids to Alaska. On National Geographic's eight-day Alaska: Denali to Kenai Fjords Family Expedition (from $5,845), you and your crew can take guided hikes to a ridgeline summit in Denali National Park and Preserve's interior and take a cruise through the Kenai Fjords, where sea lions, orca and gray and humpback whales are often spotted. After an exhilarating day outdoors, you can enjoy downtime at Denali Backcountry Lodge.

The Galápagos

With its spellbinding landscapes and captivating creatures – from giant tortoises to penguins to sea lions – the Galápagos Islands have long enamored thrill-seekers in pursuit of one-of-a-kind wildlife adventures. Barnes highlights Charles Darwin's playground as an ideal choice for wildlife-loving broods looking for an off-the-beaten-track getaway. With Intrepid Travel's eight-day Galapagos Family Holiday package (prices start at $2,680), families can get an adrenaline rush as they "witness some of the rarest creatures in the world, snorkeling at one of the largest sea lion colonies, spotting giant tortoises and looking out for marine iguanas, whales, dolphins and sharks," Barnes explains. For unforgettable, up-close animal counters, you won't want to miss Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz Island or snorkeling near Santa Maria Island.

Getty Images |

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai may draw outdoorsy couples with its captivating coastlines and postcard-worthy sunsets, but the less-trodden tropical paradise isn't just a romantic hideaway. Budding thrill-seekers will find plenty of adrenaline-pumping pursuits to pique their interest, whether they're itching to try their hand at surfing at Hanalei Bay, traverse the Waimea Canyon or swim in the Queen's Bath, a lava rock-bordered tide pool on the island's north shore. Everett Potter, a columnist for Forbes and author of the website "Everett Potter's Travel Report," highlights sea kayaking, snorkeling and zip lining as classic adventure-filled recreational pursuits the whole crew will enjoy.

Washington, District of Columbia

Not just a mecca for high-profile politicians, the nation's capital offers world-class cultural attractions and a dizzying array of family-friendly museums, from the National Museum of History to the National Gallery of Art. Breaks from admiring the District's marbled monuments can include catching a show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and wandering along the Tidal Basin (arrive in spring to catch sight of pink-hued blooms draping the city). And for more thrilling escapades, venture 15 miles outside of the District to the Billy Goat Trail, where you can enjoy biking, climbing and hiking, or tack on a trip to Virginia's Shenandoah National Park, just 75 miles outside of the nation's capital.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Get away from it all and soak in the snow-capped peaks, alpine glaciers and plummeting waterfalls on an epic family adventure in Glacier National Park. On Backroads' five-day Glacier Family Multi-Adventure Camping Tour (from $1,998 per person), horseback riding in Many Glacier Valley, peddling among glacier-sculpted valleys and taking in riveting vistas on Going-to-the-Sun Road are on the itinerary. If you would rather craft your own itinerary, a few must-sees include the Trail of the Cedars, which is suitable for all skill levels and is conveniently located near Lake McDonald Lodge, and Grinnell Glacier, a photogenic hike that weaves past Logan Pass. Best of all, youngsters can tag along a variety of ranger-guided programs, including snowshoe hikes in winter.

Iguazú Falls, Brazil and Argentina

With 275 jaw-dropping waterfalls, UNESCO Heritage status and the chance to enjoy biologist-guided jungle treks and river kayaking expeditions, it's no wonder these cascading falls along the Argentina-Brazil border hold a firm place on the adventurer's bucket list. If you don't mind misty surroundings, consider visiting during the less in-demand rainy season (December to February). There are plenty of ways to experience the falls in their full glory, but for an upscale, stress-free option, consider embarking on an guided tour. At the new all-inclusive Awasi Iguazú, an eco-friendly resort, you can stay in a rainforest villa and take a guided excursion to the waterfalls and beyond.

Croatia offers a winning blend of historical attractions, architectural gems and cinematic backdrops. For a memorable family adventure, Barnes highlights Croatia as an out-of-the-ordinary pick. Intrepid Travel's nine-day Croatia Family Holiday trip (from $2,195 per person) "takes families beyond Dubrovnik and guides them through less-visited but equally adventurous sites like the vineyards, olive groves and tranquil coves of Korčula Island, the Renaissance architecture and beautiful beaches of Hvar Island and the waterfront promenade of Split," he explains. If you're looking to up the thrill factor, take the kids to Krka National Park in central Dalmatia to marvel at striking waterfalls. And no trip would be complete without strolling through Dubrovnik's iconic Old City or checking out Diocletian's Palace in Split.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – the country's most popular national park, with roughly 10 million visitors each year – tempts adventurous families with seemingly endless opportunities to embrace the great outdoors. Whether you and the gang want to enjoy horseback riding, hiking or biking expeditions, there are a number of activities to keep you busy. For the ultimate bonding experience, time your trip for late May or early June, when 19 different species of fireflies flash in sync to create a bright flickering color against the evening sky at the Elkmont Campground. If you can't snag a pass, which are distributed via a lottery system, take the kids to other can't-miss attractions, such as the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and Grotto Falls.

With its geothermal hot springs, active volcanoes, iconic lagoon and surreal landscapes, it's no wonder Iceland holds a top spot on many traveler's lists. On Intrepid Travel's seven-day Summer Iceland Family Holiday trip (prices start at $2,850), you can soak in the country's spectacular natural attractions, from bubbling geysers to cascading waterfalls to icy glaciers. Highlights include meandering through a glacial lagoon, riding the rapids along the Hvita River (participants must be 11 or older) and trekking on a glacier in Skaftafell National Park. And though you and the kids might feel jet-lagged once you arrive, you can recharge in the Blue Lagoon before embarking on an adrenaline-fueled trip.

Dramatic coastlines, awe-inspiring parks (Acadia National Park, we’re looking at you) and rugged landscapes beckon to adventurers of all ages. Potter suggests embarking on a multiday sea kayaking trip on the coast of Maine for an unforgettable getaway. He highlights the 375-mile Maine Island Trail – a recreational water trail that links more than 200 isles and sites – as an especially worthwhile adventure. For more land-based excursions, take the kids to Acadia for heart-pounding hikes and bike rides. Trekking to the staggering 1,560-foot Cadillac Mountain, exploring the robust 57-mile network of carriage roads and snapping family photos at Otter Cliff are must-dos. After embracing the great outdoors together, kick back at a family-friendly hotel like Balance Rock Inn .

Queenstown, New Zealand

When it comes to choosing an action-packed family-friendly destination, it's hard to top this fun-loving city. Adventure junkies of all ages can unleash their inner daredevil with snowboarding, kayaking and biking. If you and the gang aren't afraid of heights, climb aboard the Skyline Queenstown, a mountain cable car that soars 1,500 feet and offers awe-inspiring vistas of Coronet Peak, Queenstown and the Remarkables from an observation area at Bob's Peak. In winter (June to September in the Southern Hemisphere), you can enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at the Remarkables, located about 15 miles from Queenstown. And in summer, consider paragliding with a reputable company, such as GForce Paragliding, Coronet Peak or Skytrek.

The Azores, Portugal

While most jet-setters have heard of Lisbon, the Azores ' under-the-radar archipelago offers unique experiences for nature-loving families. Barnes highlights Intrepid Travel's eight-day Azores Family Holiday trip (from $2,610) as ideal for those who want to "visit working farms where agriculture is a core part of the local economy, hike up majestic volcanoes and swim with dolphins off the coast of São Miguel [Island]." If you would prefer to travel on your own, head to São Miguel to explore natural geothermal springs or make your way to Pico, which boasts a 7,700-foot summit – the highest in the country. For more relaxing outdoor pursuits, visit Varadouro, a coastal town on Faial Island with a craggy coastline and black basalt rock-framed pools.

Switzerland

For a quintessential active alpine getaway – complete with hikes to snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes and serene meadows – add Switzerland to your travel list. Adventure travel company Backroads offers a six-day Switzerland Family Walking & Hiking Tour during the summer season (from $4,498 per person), where you can admire glistening glaciers and enchanting waterfalls, explore Zermatt (and take in awe-inspiring vantage points of the Matterhorn) and explore Gornergletscher glacier's ice field. While the hikes are challenging, you and the gang will be accompanied by experts. Plus, at the end of each day, you can retreat to upscale accommodations, making it an ideal choice if you're looking to experience the Swiss Alps in comfort.

Nairobi, Kenya

Few family adventure trips can rival spending a week on a dreamy safari. If you're traveling with budding wildlife lovers, splurge for a stay at one of the Elephant Watch Camp's eco-friendly tents within the Samburu National Reserve. Dedicated guides at the camp highlight elephants passing by and offer immersive activities, such as treks to the Ol Doinyo Mountain, walks with Samburu warriors, game drives and camel treks. Aside from roaming elephants, leopards, cheetahs, lions, zebras and giraffes are often spotted across the 70-square-mile reserve.

Machu Picchu, Peru

For intrepid families, Peru is a must-see bucket list destination, Brady says. After all, it's hard to match taking an expert-guided tour through the Amazon, Machu Picchu and Cusco. On G Adventures' nine-day Peru Family Experience (starting at $1,999 per person), participants ages 3 and up can raft, kayak, hike and bike on a naturalist-led tour in the Amazon jungle before taking the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu to catch sight of the "lost city of the Incas" and admire sacred temples and agriculture areas. After taking in commanding views of Machu Picchu's ruins, visitors can enjoy other must-see attractions in Cusco like the Sacsayhuamán ruins or explore the lively Plaza de Armas.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Imagine waking up to colorful cliff-side villages gazing over the Ligurian Sea and spending your days exploring together as you soak in breathtaking backdrops followed by pizza and gelato. While Cinque Terre 's cluster of five villages may be a popular romantic retreat, the charming small towns afford a once-in-a-lifetime family adventure as you hike from village to village. Though some treks are steep and not well-suited for novices or the faint of heart, fret not because you and the kids can opt to board a train or arrange a private boat tour. Consider booking a private tour with a venerable outfitter like Country Walkers to hike along olive-flanked paths, snorkel in the Ligurian and trek to medieval castles without sweating the details.

Jetting off to Bali with your brood to explore sacred temples and towering volcanoes might not seem like a practical family getaway, but with many immersive activities geared toward the young – and the young at heart – there are plenty of draws for planning the trip of a lifetime. With Intrepid Travel's Bali Family Holiday with Teenagers package, travelers can stay active with heart-pounding adventures, Barnes says. "In between snorkeling, hiking and whitewater rafting, take part in cultural excursions like chocolate-making at a Balinese factory [on the tour]," he says. If you would rather arrange your own itinerary, don't miss taking the kids to Uluwatu Temple or getting acquainted with Sumatran elephants at Elephant Safari Park.

With dramatic cliffs, ancient ruins and picturesque trails, the Emerald Isle is an adventure-lover's playground. After getting your culture fix in Dublin, take the kids to a real-life fairy tale by staying and sleep over in one of Ireland's enchanting castles. At the sprawling 450-acre Dromoland Castle Hotel & Country Estate in County Clare, the whole crew can partake in archery, falconry, tennis, mountain biking and other recreational pursuits. And at the 800-year-old Ashford Castle, you can up the family fun factor with zip lining, carriage rides, falconry, horseback riding and other kid-friendly pursuits. After embracing the great outdoors, little ones ages 12 and under can get pampered with personalized bedtime story books, homemade cookies and even a LEGO menu.

Jaw-dropping landscapes punctuated by scenic fjords and magnificent glaciers tempt nature enthusiasts of all ages and interests to jet off to Norway. With G Adventures' seven-day Norwegian Fjord Trekking excursion (from $2,299), participants ages 12 and up can take a guided hike along the frosty Buer Glacier and explore the Trolltonga Troll's Tongue formation, which rises 2,300 feet over Lake Ringedalsvatnet. And while even finicky teens will be hard-pressed to find a reason not to immerse themselves in their surroundings, other draws for planning an action-packed trip to Norway include the chance to spot reindeer at Jotunheimen National Park and admire walruses and polar bears in Svalbard, nestled between Norway and the North Pole.

South Africa

If an African safari is on your bucket list, journey to Kruger National Park with a reputable outfitter that can guide you to pristine game reserves to spot the Big Five: lions, Cape buffalos, leopards, rhinoceroses and elephants. Brady highlights a 12-day G Adventures expedition in partnership with National Geographic Journeys (starting at $3,059 per person) from Cape Town to Victoria Falls as especially enticing. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, participants can marvel at penguins on Cape Town's Boulders Beach and take the picturesque wildlife safari drive in Kruger National Park to spot giraffes, lions and elephants. Spectacular wildlife-viewing aside, the trip offers the chance to explore Victoria Falls by kayak, river safari, canoe or whitewater rafting expedition.

If you want to raise culture-loving kids, it's a great idea to skip across the pond to Paris. But if you've already gotten your art fix at world-renowned institutions in the City of Light, such as the Musée d'Orsay, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, skip Paris and take in an active getaway in the lesser-known Dordogne region in southwest France (about a 90-minute drive east of Bordeaux), which teems with castles, caves and storybook châteauxs. Youngsters will enjoy exploring the labyrinth-like gardens of Marqueyssac, checking out the 25 painted caves and 147 prehistoric sites in the Vézère Valley and releasing any pent-up energy cycling, canoeing and hiking in one of 33 parks and gardens in the area.

A trip along the Salmon River is a guaranteed one-of-a-kind adventure trip for all ages, Potter says. Along the Salmon River, you'll create long-lasting memories as you plummet through Class III rapids. The best way to experience the area's inspiring desert scenery on a heart-racing rafting expedition is with an experienced outfitter like O.A.R.S., he adds. The company offers four- and five-day trips on the lower Salmon River. If you're a first time rafter, consider the company's Gorges of the Lower Salmon River Rafting Trip (from $899 per person), which is designed for ages 7 and up. By day, you can enjoy whitewater rafting, swimming, paddleboarding and wildlife spotting, and after dark you can bond beneath the stars at riverside campsites.

Vail, Colorado

If your family comprises avid powder hounds and snow bunnies, Vail should top your travel bucket list. You and the gang can enjoy the ultimate snowboarding and ski break at Vail Ski Resort. And after shredding powder, take the kids to the Eagles Nest Wilderness or venture to neighboring Beaver Creek for kid-friendly activities like nature hikes from the Beaver Creek Nordic Center. Best of all, the area offers a variety of family-friendly accommodation options, from the Sonnenalp , which offers movie nights and arts and crafts at its kids club, and The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch , which offers marshmallow roasting around a fire pit and a Ritz Kids program with ski lessons, photography, scavenger hunts and other activities.

With world-renowned attractions – from Kyoto's iconic Buddhist temples to Tokyo's neon-lit cityscapes and skyscrapers – Japan's best places to visit beckon to culture-loving globetrotters of all ages. Barnes highlights Intrepid Travel's 11-day Japan Family Holiday (from $4,910 per person) as an especially memorable adventure. On the trip, travelers "can take part in activities few have the chance to experience, such as cooking okonomiyaki on a Tokyo Bay boat cruise, taking a dip in the soothing waters of the onsen (Japanese hot spring baths) in Hakone and learning the art of calligraphy," he explains. If you're craving more memorable experiences, take on a few extra days in Tokyo to check out can't-miss gems, such as the Sensoji Temple, the Imperial Palace and the Edo-Tokyo Museum.

Niagara Falls, Canada

Thrill-seeking families in search of impressive waterfalls will be hard-pressed to find a more dramatic photo op than Niagara Falls . And while you should expect tourist kitsch (and heavy crowds), the magnificent natural wonder is a quintessential bucket list attraction for good reason. Whether you want to see the striking falls on a Maid of the Mist boat tour for a spray-filled ride to Horseshoe Falls or from a sky-high observation with a Journey Behind the Falls tour, there are many ways to experience the falls in all their splendor. Beyond the falls, check out kid-friendly attractions such as Niagara SkyWheel and Old Fort Niagara.

Morocco charms visitors with its colorful markets in Marrakesh, its dramatic dune-filled desert landscapes in the Sahara and its elaborate architecture in Casablanca. For a one-of-a-kind, action-packed trip – that doesn't require a small fortune – Barnets highlights a budget-friendly Morocco Family Holiday eight-day itinerary. The tour (starting at $665) includes camel riding along sandy dunes, exploring the iconic Djemaa el Fna main square and taking a respite at Zaouit Ifergane, a relaxing oasis with swaying palms. Carve out extra time in Marrakesh for plenty of kid-friendly enticements, such as treasure hunting for souvenirs and catching performances at lively bazaar market stalls, admiring the ornate mosaics at El Badi Palace and strolling through the cacti-filled Le Jardin Majorelle.

With its dramatic cliffs, striking fjords and plunging waterfalls, Denmark offers plenty of thrilling diversions for adventurous families. Aside from checking out Copenhagen's must-sees, such as the Little Mermaid statue, the Tivoli Gardens and Strøget, you and the kids can retreat to the enchanting Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød or walk among the cinematic cliffs flanking the isle of Møn's eastern coastline. On National Geographic Expeditions' nine-day Denmark and Norway Family Expedition, suited for ages 7 and up (starting at $6,590), highlights include peddling in the mountains outside of Bergen, learning about Scandinavia's fascinating seafaring heritage with an expert archaeologist, taking the Flåm Railway from Oslo to Myrdal and embarking on a scenic cruise along Sognefjord.

For a mix of art, history, ancient ruins and idyllic beaches, embark on an unforgettable odyssey in Greece. Make Athens your home base for visiting must-see attractions such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Or if you would rather leave the logistics to an expert, consider booking National Geographic Expeditions' 10-day round-trip Greece Family Expedition for ages 7 and up (starting at $5,990 per person). The trip includes guided tours at iconic attractions in Athens, sightseeing in Delphi and a stop in Santorini – the volcanic isle known for its striking cliff-side sunsets, blue domes and whitewashed buildings. Even better, youngsters can enjoy cultural immersion with the Kid-to-Kid Connection program, where participants can interact with Greek locals and participate in hands-on activities.

When you imagine Thailand, picture-perfect beaches, golden temples and opulent resorts may spring to mind. But the country's diverse landscapes, lush forests and lively markets beckon to fickle teens looking for blend of culture and adventure. On Intrepid Travel's 11-day Highlights of Thailand tour for participants ages 15 and up (starting at $1,795), you and the kids can enjoy an interactive cooking lesson in Chiang Mai, cycle past ancient ruins and visit Friends of Asian Elephant, a hospital that aims to protect animal welfare in a safe habitat in Sukhothai. For a more adrenaline-fueled journey, consider embarking on an eight-day biking expedition with outfitter Backroads that weaves past temples and rice fields in the Golden Triangle.

Yellowstone National Park

One of the America's most prized national parks, Yellowstone's striking natural wonders and surreal geothermal features, from its bubbling hot springs to its rust-colored canyon walls, entice visitors of all ages to embrace the great outdoors. And with versatile wildlife-viewing opportunities and more than 3,000 square miles of waterfalls, canyons and geysers, Yellowstone offers plenty of ways for adventure-seekers to experience its sprawling natural playground. A fun, family-friendly way to take in the park is with a rafting trip along the Yellowstone River or an expert-led backcountry hike. If you want to stay at one of Yellowstone's lodges, you can enjoy other bonding experiences like dinner cookouts around a crackling campfire.

The Pyrenees, Andorra and Spain

Forget the Alps. For an awe-inspiring, heart-pounding hike, consider an out-of-the-ordinary trip in the Pyrenees, the beautiful mountain region tucked between Spain and France. Barnes highlights Intrepid Travel's eight-day Summer Pyrenees Family Holiday package (starting at $895) as a choice option. On the trip, designed for ages 10 and older, activities include whitewater rafting, zip lining, biking and hiking. Highlights include peddling to Engolasters Lake in the Cortals Valley and embarking on an exhilarating whitewater rafting journey across the border in Spain from the village of Sort ("luck" in Catalan). If you have a stringent budget, the off-the-beaten-path, bucket-list adventure is attached to a reasonable all-inclusive rate that includes accommodations, meals, daily activities and transportation.

Tanzania, East Africa

If you're traveling with wildlife lovers, you may be hard-pressed to come up with a more memorable family vacation than a safari. On Intrepid Travel's eight-day Tanzania Family Safari (from $2,095 per person), "families can take a safari across the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater for a chance to watch the endangered black rhinoceros in their natural habitat," Barnes says. "They can see an astounding array of animals in the Serengeti National Park, too, and pass through the ancient homeland of the Maasai," he adds. Aside from game drives at dawn, educational opportunities abound, including learning about the Great Rift Valley, the destination for the Great Migration, when about 2 million wildebeest, gazelles and zebras traverse the Serengeti.

Borneo, Malaysia

Animal-loving families in search of the ultimate off-the-beaten-track wilderness adventure should consider venturing to Borneo. "In Borneo, families have the chance to see animals up close at an orangutan rehabilitation center, a monkey sanctuary and a bear conservation center," he explains. On Intrepid Travel's 10-day Classic Borneo itinerary for ages 10 and up (prices start at $2,074 per person), you can meet traipse through jungles and float along the Kinabatangan River, which is home to macaques and orangutans, among other fascinating creatures. "Families will stay at an eco-camp in the thick of the jungle and will enjoy a homestay in a Malay village," he adds. Other bucket-list worthy highlights include exploring an authentic tea plantation and snorkeling near Manakan Island to admire colorful coral and tropical fish.

For quality family bonding time in the great outdoors, Potter suggests taking youngsters to a dude ranch out West. Lone Mountain Ranch in Montana, which is tucked between Big Sky and Yellowstone, is an especially attractive choice for broods with its wide range of kid-friendly activities, including cross-country skiing, dog-sledding, horseback riding, mountain biking, fly-fishing and white-water rafting. "The trails are incredibly well-groomed," Potter adds. If you're planning a summer escape, consider the Summer Discovery Package, which includes a tour of Yellowstone, hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, horseback riding, all meals and an Outdoor Youth Adventures Program designed for ages 4 to 12, where kids can connect with like-minded peers and enjoy age-appropriate activities.

You – and the kids – have seen dreamy pictures of the spectacular sandstone rock formations and iconic domes, buttes and arches in Utah's five famed national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef. For an outdoor adventure the kids won't soon forget, head to Arches to admire one of the 2,000 famed spires the park is known for, such as Delicate Arch and Balanced Rock. For more unforgettable backdrops, check out Bryce's surreal hoodoo rock formations, or if you're feeling brave, hike the challenging Narrows in Zion National Park. Consider making nearby Moab your base camp to enjoy ample opportunities for stargazing, hiking, biking and rafting, among other outdoor escapades.

Northern India

Northern India offers the right mix of captivating landscapes, iconic attractions and fascinating wildlife, catering to explorers and culture vultures of all ages. On Intrepid Travel's 10-day Northern India Family Holiday expeditions (starting at $1,080 per person), you can cross plenty of world-renowned attractions off your bucket list, from the Taj Mahal in Agra to India Gate in New Delhi to the elaborate City Palace in Jaipur. The trip also includes a stop at Ranthambore National Park, where you can meander past storied temples and embark on early morning game drives to look out for antelope, leopards, gazelle and Bengal tigers. If you have extra time, tack on a few extra days to experience Delhi's vibrant bazaars and attractions.

Sayulita, Mexico

Sayulita – the little-known surf town along the Pacific that's often overshadowed by popular Puerto Vallarta – is a dreamy escape for an off-the-beaten-track adventure trip removed from heavy tourist crowds. Aspiring surfers can take lessons along the beach with reputable surf schools like Lunazul Surf School & Shop. And for more exhilarating adventures, take the kids on a jungle biking trip with outfitter Wild Mex Wilderness and Surf Mexpeditions, which offers tours geared toward moderate and advanced riders. Other outdoor activities can include soaring through treetops on a zip line in the Sierra Madre forest, beachside yoga and snorkeling. Wrap up your days with a stay at an authentic casita vacation rental or boutique hotel like Villa Amor.

Tasmania, Australia

For some of the best nature- and wildlife-viewing on earth, take the kids to Oz. With sublime backdrops, unique geological features and diverse wildlife (think: wallabies and Tasmanian devils), Tasmania offers an extraordinary trip for adventurers of all kinds. You and the kids can sprawl along sandy beaches and admire striking granite mountains before hitting the trails at Freycinet National Park, including the challenging but rewarding Wineglass Bay Lookout trail. For less adrenaline-pumping pursuits, consider venturing to the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, near Hobart, where you can feed the local four-legged residents and admire other animals, like kangaroos. Paddling by kayak along Coles Bay at sunset with a reputable outfitter like Freycinet Adventures also offers a memorable outdoor excursion.

On the surface, St. Lucia, with its palm-lined beaches, lavish resorts and rum cocktails, may not seem like an ideal destination for families. But don't let its romantic reputation throw you off. Outdoorsy travelers of all ages will enjoy adrenaline-fueled rainforest hikes, treks to the Piton Mountains and touring the island's active drive-in volcano at Sulfur Springs Park. If you're looking to splurge, consider taking your crew to Anse Chastanet (open to guests ages 10 and up or 6 years or older from July to September), a luxury resort that boasts room with plenty of age-appropriate activities, from jungle biking to guided hikes to open-water dives at the surrounding marine reserve.

If you're looking for a transformative, off-the-grid trip, a cruise to Antarctica should top your travel list. The adventure-focused cruise line Hurtigruten offers voyages from the Drake Passage to the Antarctica Peninsula. And travelers get the chance to hike along remote, unspoiled landscapes, marvel at melting icebergs and admire Gentoo penguins, leopard seals and other fascinating creatures. On the 14-day Frozen Land of the Penguins itinerary, youngsters ages 7 to 13 can also learn about the geological makeup of the Southern Ocean, join sustainable-driven community services onshore and attend enriching historical, environmental and wildlife-focused educational lecture series centered on climate change with the Young Explorers Program.

Grand Canyon National Park

If you're searching for an inspiring outdoor adventure in one of America's prized national parks, the Grand Canyon is a no-brainer. Marveling at the crimson- and ochre-hued, 277-mile-long chasm and soaking in its natural and geological splendors is nothing if not enchanting. Potter suggests planning a whitewater rafting trip along the Colorado River with a reputable guide to give kids the chance to experience the grandeur, striking side canyons and streams of the Grand Canyon. On O.A.R.'s five-day Grand Canyon Rafting – Whitmore Wash to Lake Mead (starting at $2,440 per person), participants ages 7 and up can hike, horseback ride and take a helicopter ride above the Grand Canyon.

Vancouver, British Columbia

If you want a mix of cosmopolitan gems and outdoor wilderness on your next family getaway, set your sights on Vancouver, where daily activities can include everything from learning to surf to soaring over the peaks of Grouse Mountain on a zip line tour. For less extreme but equally stimulating adventures, take a canopy walk along the 450-foot-long, 230-foot-high Capilano Suspension Bridge, where you can admire striking evergreens and forest and river vistas as you traverse seven suspended footbridges. If you would rather stay on terra firma, bike or walk in Stanley Park, pausing at Brockton Point to marvel at the totem poles. When you need a break, recharge at Granville Island Public Market.

Petra has long attracted history lovers and serious daredevils. After all, it's the iconic setting from the 1989 hit "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade." On Intrepid Travel's eight-day Jordan Family Holidays (starting at $1,435), you'll get off the beaten track and "journey beyond Petra to Wadi Rum on a four-wheel-drive safari," Barnes says. Plus, travelers have "the chance to camp in the middle of the desert under the stars," he adds. The trip begins in Amman Jordan, continues onward to Jerash for a hike weaving past ruins dating back more than 2,000 years, then on to Petra and Wadi Rum to take in spectacular rock formations, before wrapping up at the Dead Sea.

For an outside-the-box adventure in Southeast Asia, Brady highlights Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand as choice destinations. Whether you want to trek through the Cardamom Mountains, admire the ancient temples at Angkor Wat or explore Phnom Penh's outdoor markets, there are plenty of inspiring landscapes and historical attractions to cross off your list. On G Adventures' 17-day Essential Vietnam & Cambodia trip (starting at $1,959), participants ages 12 and up cruise along the Mekong Delta in Ho Chi Minh City, float in a junk boat on Halong Bay and visit the Angkor Wat temple complex. Best of all, the guided trip caters to novice hikers, with light walking and hiking.

Trekking to Mongolia with kids on a nomadic adventure offers an unforgettable vacation. With the 14-day Discover Mongolia G Adventures trip in partnership with National Geographic Journeys (from $4,199), activities include visiting the Flaming Cliffs paleontology site, marveling at Mongolia's wild horses at Hustai National Park and touring the Erdene Zhu monastery with a Buddhist monk. Best of all, the trip offers plenty of learning components with educational lectures and visits to camel-herding families. And Mongolia's remote and diverse landscapes – from the isolated dunes in the Gobi Desert to the dramatic Altai mountains, green valleys and striking gorges in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park – do not disappoint.

(M.M. Sweet | Getty Images)

Sea of Cortez, Mexico

For a one-of-a-kind outdoor excursion, consider sea kayaking in the Sea of Cortez, Potter says. The venerable travel outfitter O.A.R.S. offers a Baja Sea Kayaking and Whale Watching expedition that includes a mix of paddling near the cliff-flanked coast of Espíritu Santo, swimming with sea lions at a rookery and whale spotting at Magdalena Bay as Pacific gray whales migrate from the Arctic. On the nine-day trip (from $1,395 per person), you can also catch sight of sea turtles, dolphins and manta rays and paddle on an expert-led kayaking excursion before exploring rugged sand dunes along the Baja coast. Best of all, guests of all ages can stay engaged after the sun goes down with evening lectures.

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8 Unforgettable Family Tour Company Vacations

Aug 11, 2014

See recent posts by Andrea Guthmann

Once you’re on vacation — which only happens once a year for many families — you want to spend plenty of quality time together. Tour companies provide an excellent means to do so, with outdoor activities, such as biking and rafting, as well as cultural offerings for every age group and interest. Plus, there’s little to no planning involved!

These are the most unforgettable tour group vacations for families.

Adventures by Disney

No, Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck won't join you in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America or any of the more than two dozen global excursions offered by Adventures by Disney . However, guided, land-based tours do an expert job of entertaining the entire family. Plus, they take the stress out of traveling to far-flung places, where you don't speak the language or know the customs (they'll even greet you the second you clear customs at the airport).

Unique to Adventures by Disney are destinations that have inspired blockbuster movies. Norway, for example, was added in 2014, due to the immense popularity of "Frozen." During the trip, guests explore fjords, glaciers and architecture, similar to those seen in the film. The company's newest adventure includes a visit to the Amazon River, along with shorter, more convenient "Long Weekends" in New York and San Francisco.

While you'll spend much of your trip with other families, including meal times (most meals are included in rates), Adventures by Disney sets aside a few afternoons and evenings to explore on your own. Most meals are included, but on select nights, families can make their own dinner plans, allowing time away from the larger group. One popular perk is Junior Adventure Night, when guides supervise the kids in their own activities on one night during each trip, allowing adults to have a quiet dinner and time alone.

Austin Adventures

Thomson Family Adventures

Global CommUnity

Launched in 2017, Global CommUnity is the brainchild of Christie Holmes and Keith Waldon. It was born out of the desire for their own children have more a engaged experience when traveling. Global CommUnity offers international tours to exotic destinations including the Galapagos, Peru, Morocco and Patagonia. In every destination, families have unique opportunities to interact with locals and learn about culture and traditions. "Our purpose is provide the tools that enable families to travel to places they might not go out of fear or lack of exposure -- our passion is introducing the concept of engaging with mutual respect and reciprocity that will guide each family as they interact with other cultures learning that while we can celebrate our differences, there are many ways we are the same," says Holmes. "We want to introduce the concept of engaging travelers with other cultures until 'No One Is Foreign.'" Global CommUnity vacations are sold through travel advisors and offer customizable itineraries that include excursions, breakfast and accommodations and transportation with different price points available. Bonus: The Galapagos itinerary doesn't require any payment upfront when securing space more than 6 months out. The ability to hold a spot 12-24 months out with no down payment allows for planning and budgeting flexibility. Our favorite part about Global CommUnity? Tours are divided by age groups -- young children, teens, and adults only -- to accommodate the unique needs and interests of all travelers. We also love the company's Life Travel Map, an interactive digital map that details the recommended key trips for you, based on an interview with you and your family members. While everyone is welcome, it's recommended that children be at least 5 years of age to appreciate and enjoy the tours. For more information, visit NoOneIsForeign.com .

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The Best Travel Adventures for Families

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Who says family vacations have to be just about visits to theme parks or sitting on a beach ? Sure, those types of tips can be a lot of fun but in the 21st century, family travel has evolved to be so much more than that, opening an entire world of possibilities. In fact, the family vacation can be a grand, multi-generational adventure that creates memories that will last a lifetime and further enriches family bonds.

Go on a Classic African Safari

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

A classic African safari has been one of the best travel experiences for decades, giving intrepid explorers the chance to experience amazing and abundant wildlife in its natural habitat. The entire family will love being able to spot lions and cheetahs in the wild, not to mention elephants, giraffes, and zebras too.

Top safari destinations include Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, and Kruger National Park in South Africa. These locations have comfortable lodges and well-equipped camps that make this type of journey relaxing and enjoyable on so many levels.

There are numerous safari companies to choose from when planning a trip, but Tanzania Expeditions is excellent at helping families plan the exact trip for them, as is Abercrombie and Kent for those looking for something a bit more upscale.

Learn to Be a Cowboy at a Dude Ranch

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Over the past few years, visiting a working dude ranch has become a popular vacation style for adventure travelers. On these ranches, would-be cowboys learn to ride, rope, and tend to the livestock, including rounding up cattle and bringing them home.

Believe it or not, these types of trips are excellent for the entire family, who will get the opportunity to go horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and do other outdoor activities together. Accommodations are often in comfortable, but rustic, cabins, with most of the ranches located in the American West. Sweet Grass Ranch in Montana is a favorite, as is Tanque Verde Ranch in Arizona.

Go Camping in a National Park

America's national parks are some of the best outdoor wilderness areas in the entire world, offering plenty to see and do. Travelers can go hiking, biking, and paddling in parks that are found in practically every corner of the country, although places like Yellowstone , Yosemite, and the Great Smokey Mountains truly stand out as epic travel destinations.

One of the best family activities that can be had inside a national park is overnight camping. Most of the parks have on-site campgrounds that can be reserved for multiple nights, which can make for a great family escape. There is nothing quite like gathering around a campfire at the end of the day to roast some marshmallows, make s'mores, and tell tall tales. Visit the National Park Service website to start planning your camping trip.

Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

Australia's Great Barrier Reef remains one of the truly great natural wonders of the world, despite the threats that it now faces . The GBR gives families the opportunity to spot hundreds of species of sea life and offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. Even kids who haven't used a mask and snorkel before will pick-up the activity with relative ease. They'll also be completely enthralled by the colorful fish that collect by the thousands along the reef, not to mention the opportunities to spot sea turtles, octopuses, and even—depending on the season—whales too.

Day trips or longer live-aboard excursions can be booked out of a number of locations along the coast of the Australian state of Queensland. We recommend checking out the options in Cairns or Airlie Beach, which both offer convenient departures.

Take a Small-Ship Adventure Cruise

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While taking a cruise may not sound like much of an adventure, if you leave the large ships behind and embark on a small-ship tour, you'll soon understand why this activity made our list. These kinds of cruises are much more intimate and active affairs. While on the larger vessels passengers rarely leave the ship, on an adventure cruise travelers get the chance to disembark to go on hikes, kayaking excursions, or zodiac boat tours on a daily basis. Because the vessels are much smaller, it is easier for families to stick together and spend quality time with one another. Whether that's gathering around the dinner table with new friends, hanging out in the ship's lounge, or embarking on a daily adventure, there is a lot to like on a small-ship cruise.

Some of the best family adventures can be had on a cruise to Alaska or a sailing trip to Baja. While both are quite different from one another, they do offer some unique travel experiences that simply can't be replicated by the larger cruise lines. Check out the offerings from UnCruise Adventure and Windstar Cruises to get a sense of what's possible.

Go Whitewater Rafting

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One of the most adrenaline-inducing, heart-pounding, exhilarating adventures that the entire family can share together is whitewater rafting. There's nothing quite like plunging down a raging river on a warm, sunny day. Often faster and more fun than a roller coaster, a rafting trip can be truly memorable and bonding experience, even for smaller children.

There are plenty of great places to go rafting across the U.S. and around the world . If you truly want to plan a great trip that includes some opportunities to go rafting, be sure to check out the various destinations and itineraries that OARS has to offer. The company specializes in whitewater adventures, including trips specifically geared for families .

Hike the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon has been a top family destination for decades, and for good reason. The national park is so impressive that it has even been named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World . But the vast majority of visitors never go past the canyon rim, choosing instead to just admire the view from the top.

If your kids enjoy hiking however, the Grand Canyon offers some spectacular trails to explore. Options include the iconic Bright Angel Trail, which at 9.2 miles roundtrip makes for a long, but fulfilling day in the park. The Rim Trail is longer still, but is also paved and relatively flat, making it an easier walk overall. The truly adventurous can choose to hike rim-to-rim-to-rim if they like, spending some time camping in the Canyon itself along the way.

Whichever route you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water, allocate enough time, and don't hesitate to stop for family photos along the way. After all, this is some of the best scenery on earth.

Go on a Cycling Tour

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One of the best things about riding a bike is that it's an activity the entire family can enjoy together. That holds true for a cycling tour as well, with options available to ride for just a few hours in a scenic location or spending several days exploring an exotic destination on two wheels.

Cycling tours have become incredibly popular in recent years, which makes it now possible to visit just about any corner of the globe and enjoy a great bike ride. Don't worry if you think younger or older members of the family won't be able to keep up; some companies now offer ebike options to help close the gap and nearly all of them provide a support vehicle for those looking to take a break.

Backroads offers some of the best cycling tours on the planet for those who prefer to stick to the road. The more adventurous families can elect to hit the trail with a company like Sacred Rides , which specializes in mountain biking excursions. Either way, you're in for a fun, active journey that everyone will love.

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Adventure Travel

Best family adventure travel companies.

Family vacations include five-star accommodations, private expert tours, and immersive cultural experiences. All meals, transfers, and gratuities are included. The company has a team of experts to handle the details of your trip, ensuring that you have the best experience possible.

Backroads Family Adventure Travel Company offers a variety of multi-adventure tours around the world, from cycling and hiking to kayaking and surfing. Its trips are designed to maximize family time, and you’ll also make new friends along the way. Backroads is one of the only travel companies that have age-specific products for kids.

Backroads have been in the travel industry since 1979. Its acclaimed tours include cycling, hiking, and trekking, and their company has been a trusted name in the active-travel industry. Today, the company offers over 4,000 scheduled departures a year, with a high repeat guest satisfaction rating. Its trips take families on active vacations to faraway places, including the Canadian Rockies and the western U.S. Backroads is the leader in active-travel trips.

The Backroads family adventure travel company offers trips for a variety of age groups, including toddlers and preschoolers. It also has specialized trips for kids and teens. These trips are tailored to meet the needs of every family member, from the tiniest toddler to the oldest teen.

The Intrepid Family Adventure Travel Company has developed a different style of family travel. The company prefers real-life experiences over virtual ones, and its trips include kid-friendly hotels and activities like tuk-tuk rides in Bangkok and football matches with Maasai tribesmen. Its trips also include sailing down the Nile on an Egyptian felucca.

Its trips can be tailored to fit your budget. Depending on your interests and preferences, you can choose between a family tour, a solo tour, cycling trip, or a hiking tour. There are also group trips exclusively for young adults. Intrepid is dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. No matter which trip you choose, you can’t go wrong with Intrepid. Its staff will be friendly and knowledgeable to make your trip memorable.

Many of the Intrepid tours are free for parents with children under 17 years old. They also give children under the age of 17 a 10 percent discount off the trip price. Statistics from the United States Census Bureau show that nearly one-third of all households with children have a single parent. In September 2017, 16 percent of Intrepid family bookings included single parents and their children. The company has noted an increase in single-parent inquiries in the past year.

Intrepid Family Holidays

Intrepid Travel has many family vacations across the world. They offer trips to North America, Europe, Turkey, Africa, and the Middle East. They also have special trips for solo parents. They make sure all of the details are taken care of, including transportation and accommodations.

Intrepid tours are geared toward people who seek adventure. Their range of themes includes polar expeditions, cycling, hiking, and local cuisine. They also have smaller group sizes, which is perfect for parents with young children. Many tours are themed towards young adults, while others are aimed at families.

The company also has a long tradition of sustainable travel and a commitment to the environment. Their tours are tailored to a wide variety of travelers, from budget-conscious families to those looking for a more challenging adventure. The company’s itineraries are affordable for most families, while being luxurious for some. You can choose a family vacation that includes a homestay with a local family.

Intrepid offers a wide variety of family adventure trips across the world. There are three different trip styles: Original, Classic, and Basix. The difference is in the level of service and the activities included. Basix tours use public transit and include fewer activities, while Original and Comfort tours use more luxurious accommodations with upgraded meals and services.

National Geographic Family Journeys

National Geographic Family Journeys offers a variety of active excursions to destinations around the world. Each trip offers multiple outdoor activities and includes cultural interaction. You can choose from classic train journeys, hiking, biking, and more. You can also choose to take part in an adventure that is specifically geared toward children, ranging from low-level to high-level. National Geographic also offers a wide range of prices, with options for every budget.

National Geographic is an internationally known name in travel and nature. National Geographic Family Journeys provides a unique opportunity for families to learn about nature through hands-on activities. In addition to offering hands-on experiences, these trips are perfect for families with kids who enjoy photography and exploring.

The company also offers culturally-immersive experiences and upgrades to accommodations. Its mission is to inspire connections between adults and children through travel. National Geographic Family Journeys is designed for adventurous travelers seven and up. Many of its trips feature local Chief Experience Officers and activities that are designed to engage children and adults alike. These trips also offer the opportunity to get involved in local communities.

National Geographic Family Journeys offers a wide variety of exciting and educational activities to help families learn about wildlife conservation, history, culture, and exploration. National Geographic Family Journeys offers educational experiences that will leave your family with a lifetime memory of memories.

Thomson’s

Thomson’s Family Adventures is a travel company specializing in trips to exotic locations. The company, which is headquartered in Massachusetts, employs 15 people and offers family vacations worldwide. The company is owned by Rick Thomson, Judi Wineland, and Jim Kackley. The BBB business profile is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used for sales purposes.

The company is dedicated to family travel and offers trips that feature a mix of adventure and education. It knows what matters to families on a trip, so it caters to that in every trip. It also limits the number of participants to 25 to ensure that the groups are small enough for the children to meet other children their age, but not too small to overwhelm parents. The company also covers all aspects of travel, including transportation and activities.

Thomson Family Adventures’ staff is very helpful and professional. They can answer all of your questions quickly and are always happy to assist you. Their accommodations and services are excellent and the entire experience is first rate.

Kensington Tours

Kensington Tours has a family-friendly travel philosophy and customizes each trip to fit your family’s unique interests. The company offers a range of tours for children and families of all ages, including tours of Japan, Costa Rica, England, France, and Tanzania. The company also offers excursions that focus on food and local culture, with activities such as winery tours and cooking classes for kids.

Kensington Tours specializes in small group luxury travel, and their resident tour directors know their destinations well. Their family adventure travel options include Costa Rica, the Galapagos, Kenya, and Tanzania. Whether you want to go hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking, Kensington will tailor a trip to meet your needs.

Kensington Tours is not responsible for any accidents, injuries, or other problems that occur on your trip. They are also not responsible for delays, cancellations, or damages to your personal property. If your trip is canceled for any reason, you are entitled to a full refund, less any deposits or uncollectible expenses.

Kensington Tours operates around the world and is known for its customized travel experiences, where local guides are on-site to give you insider knowledge. The company also has local experts who are passionate about the destinations. For instance, Kensington tours has a special Explorer in Residence program, which enables you to experience local life with a local expert. The company also offers multiple kinds of tours, including luxury yacht charters and heritage journeys.

Tauck Family Adventure Travel is committed to helping families experience the world and reconnect with each other while exploring exciting new destinations. They have designed vacations that encompass virtually all expenses, including admission to all sites and accommodations in world-class resorts. In addition to taking care of hotel reservations, the company also offers a range of activities and classes for all ages.

Tauck’s diverse offerings include guided adventures to more than 70 countries on all seven continents, European river cruises, safaris, and special events for families. Many trips are family-friendly and include off-the-beaten-path cultural experiences, insider access, and a Tauck Director.

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The best places for adventure travel in bali.

There are several places in Bali where you can enjoy adventure sports. Some of these activities require a high level of activity such as mountain climbing or river rafting. Other activities include rappelling, jumping off waterfalls, or ziplining. However, there are only a handful of good climbing tours in Bali.

Mount Batur

If you’re looking for adventure, Mount Batur is a great place to start. You can hike to the top in as little as two hours, and the sunrise views are amazing. If you’re not sure you’re up for the challenge, you can hire a local guide.

If you’re interested in experiencing the true height of Mount Batur, it’s best to do it during the dry season. Heavy rain can make the climb a difficult and unpleasant experience. Also, the weather in Mount Batur is often cooler than elsewhere in Bali, and temperatures can drop as low as 10 degrees Celsius, or 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

To get the most out of your Mount Batur adventure, it’s important to hire a local guide to guide you to the summit. If you don’t hire a guide, you run the risk of being abused verbally and physically by unscrupulous locals. The Bali government needs to intervene to prevent the exploitation of adventure-seekers without guides.

One of the best places for adventure travel in Bali is Mount Batur, an active volcano that sits between two ancient calderas. One of the calderas contains Lake Batur, Bali’s largest lake. The mountain is also home to the most sacred Hindu temple, Pura Ulun Danu Batur. While this trek is not difficult or long, you will need a guide because of its sacred status. However, you can hire a guide from any location in Bali.

River rafting

River rafting is a great way to enjoy the beauty of Bali and the surrounding landscapes. There are two main rivers in Bali that are ideal for rafting: the Ayung River outside of Ubud and the Telaga Waja River near Mount Agung. While these two rivers are considered moderate in difficulty, they are still suitable for adrenaline junkies and beginners alike.

Getting a river rafting tour in Bali is an affordable way to experience the beauty of the surrounding nature and enjoy the thrill of adventure travel. There are several companies offering this tour and the ongoing competition among operators keeps prices low year round. Prices vary based on the choice of river, the mode of transportation and optional add-ons like photo packages.

The Melangit River in Bali is another excellent choice for rafting in Bali. This river features class three and four rapids and is recommended for intermediate rafters. It’s a relatively short trip – about 1.5 hours over 7.5km – but includes a lot of rainforest scenery and steep bends.

One of the best places to go river rafting in Bali is near Ubud, which is considered the cultural center of Bali. While this area is popular for its art and culture, it is also a good starting point for outdoor activities. The Ayung River has gentle rapids and is considered a safer choice than other Balinese rivers. Although the intensity of the Ayung River is dependent on weather conditions, it’s considered to be of a Class two or three difficulty.

Bali is well-known for its beaches and laid-back atmosphere, but the island is also a great destination for those who are looking for an adventure. It has numerous hiking trails, many of which offer spectacular views and are suitable for people of all fitness levels. The best time to trek in Bali is during the dry season, from May to September. This ensures that the trails are clear and won’t be too slippery.

You can choose to hike in a secluded, hilly area, like Candidasa. You’ll have to hike up the hillside to reach the summit, but it’s worth it for the incredible views and the sudden transition from night to day. The hike begins on the western side of Tamblingan Lake and takes about two hours. You’ll be surrounded by lush rainforest as you make your way to the summit.

You can also do a short hiking tour in the central highlands of Bali. You’ll need a private driver to take you there. Otherwise, you can hire a motorbike and head out to the ridge. It’s a short walk and well-signposted. During your hike, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the mountains and rice terraces.

Bali is a mountaineer’s paradise, and the island is home to some of the most spectacular hikes in the world. The most famous hike in Bali is Mount Agung, the highest point in the island and one of the most sacred to Balinese. You’ll start your hike after visiting the Besakih Temple.

Peguyangan waterfall

Peguyangan waterfall is an exciting spot for those who love the outdoors. A short climb up steep stairs will lead you to this waterfall that has dramatic ocean views. The waterfall is perfect for those who want to experience Bali’s most spectacular views. The waterfall is located just a few miles north of Kuta.

The waterfall is not a standard waterfall; it is actually a series of small waterfalls that fall into the ocean. A set of stairs, sometimes bolted to the cliff face, leads visitors to the waterfall below. The water is crystal clear and the views are spectacular.

The waterfall is surrounded by a sacred temple, so visitors should dress appropriately. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. It is not recommended to bathe under the waterfall. While it is beautiful, you should remember to wear a sarong or other protective clothing.

You can rent a motorbike in Nusa Penida, which is close to Peguyangan. However, the road is a little rough. You’ll be driving on a smooth road most of the way, but the last fifteen minutes are on potholed, gravel roads. However, as tourism grows in Nusa Penida, the roads will gradually improve and become a more accessible option.

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Peguyangan Waterfall is a must. It features spectacular clifftop views, holy water, and Balinese culture. Peguyangan Waterfall is located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida island. It is accessible by motorbike, scooter, or car. It takes 45-60 minutes to reach from the Sampalan dock.

Elephant safaris

If you want to experience elephants in their natural habitat, there are many places in Bali where you can do so. These majestic animals are gentle and wise and they enjoy human interaction. There are different activities that you can do with them, such as riding them or bathing them. You can choose a package depending on your budget and your desired experience.

Most Bali elephant parks are privately owned and operated. The general admission price range is 300,000 to 400,000 IDR for a full day of activities. You can get more information on the cost and the duration of the tours on individual parks’ websites. However, make sure to book the experience a few days in advance, because these activities can be very popular.

For a truly thrilling experience, go on an elephant safari. This popular activity is among Bali’s most thrilling attractions and is sure to leave an impression. You will be surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and get the opportunity to explore unspoiled villages while riding an elephant.

While you’re on an elephant safari, it’s best to keep your flashlight turned off and stay calm. Flashlights attract elephants and can scare them away. It’s best to wear neutral colors when near an elephant, and don’t bring pungent foods to avoid attracting them.

Monkey forest

The Monkey Forest is located in Ubud, Bali. The entry fee to enter the forest is affordable, at 50,000 IDR (roughly 3.75 USD), and children aged three to twelve are free. If you have young children, make sure to take them with you, but keep them supervised at all times. There are monkeys that can bite, so it is important to keep them close.

The Ubud Monkey Forest is open from 8:30 am to 6 pm. Guests may encounter macaques, or long-tailed macaques, which are extremely cute and playful. You can feed these monkeys and take photos with them. However, if you have a monkey phobia, you should not go into the forest.

If you want to get up close to monkeys, you can buy bananas and peanuts to feed them. Be careful though, as these creatures can get quite excited and get frightened if they feel threatened. It is also important to keep your handbag and other valuables close to you at all times. You can also watch the monkeys swim in small ponds or swing from treetops. If you are lucky, you can even spot mothers and their babies.

You can also take an ATV tour of the Monkey Forest with an experienced ATV instructor. This tour includes a guided tour of the Sacred Monkey Forest, a visit to a local rice terrace and lunch. Some ATV tours offer the chance to take pictures with the macaques.

Adventure Travel in Bali

If you’re an independent traveler, organized tours in Bali can seem antithetical to discovering the island on your own. But there are actually a few places in Bali that have not been visited by tourists, and leaving the details to someone else can help you free up time to actually enjoy your holiday. Besides, most tours include local guides, land transportation, accommodation, meals, and any gear you’ll need for your trip. There are some caveats, however. Independent travel in Bali can be challenging in some areas, especially on Lombok, which is largely unknown to foreign tourists.

Kite Surfing

One of the best ways to enjoy the tropical weather in Bali is to take up the sport of kite surfing. While it’s not a new sport, kite surfing is catching on on the island’s many beaches. Kite surfing involves three people who use a kite to fly across the ocean. The activity can be a thrilling experience, and the wind can be quite strong.

If you’re an experienced kitesurfer, you can rent a kite at Sanur Beach. It’s one of the most popular spots in Bali. In fact, it’s the perfect place to start if you’re a beginner. If you don’t have your own kite, you’ll be able to rent one from local kite shops. But if you’re just a beginner, you’ll want to rent a kite at one of Sanur’s surf spots. This is also where you’ll learn how to fly a kite and control it.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-rush-filled activity, kite surfing in Bali is for you. You’ll find a great variety of kite schools on the island, depending on the time of year and the winds. The best time of year for kite surfing in Bali is during the southwest monsoon season, when the winds are the strongest.

The best time to go kite surfing is from May to September. During this period, the wind is generally consistent and not too strong. However, you can still go kite surfing at other times of the year. However, in Bali, the wind is often light, so you will need to use a larger kite than you would if you were on a windy day. The recommended kite is a 12 to 15-metre one.

Canyon Tubing

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting water activity to do in Bali, canyon tubing is the activity for you. It is a great way to experience the beauty of the island while experiencing the adrenaline-rushing adventure of rafting. The course is suitable for experienced bikers as well as beginners.

The course consists of a two-hour canyon tubing adventure and a quad bike tour. It also includes safety and health measures. If you have to cancel, the company will give you a 50% refund. While tubing, you’ll experience a variety of beautiful landscapes, including a beautiful waterfall, a lush jungle, and stunning waterfalls.

Canyon tubing in Bali is similar to rafting, but there are no paddles. It takes place near Ubud, and the experience includes a life jacket and helmet. It costs USD90 per person. You’ll need a swimsuit, sport shoes, and extra clothing. You’ll also need to bring your voucher if you plan to participate.

If you’d like to combine canyon tubing with rafting, you can also book a full-day tour. This tour includes a buffet lunch and canyon tubing. Along the way, you’ll drive through rice fields and plantations, and you’ll also get to see traditional Balinese villages. Afterward, you’ll get dropped off at your hotel in Ubud.

Bali is a province of Indonesia. It is located in the Lesser Sunda Islands east of Java and west of Lombok. It comprises the island of Bali and several small neighboring islands. The region is known for its natural beauty and has a long history of exploration and adventure.

There are countless hiking trails in Bali. Whether you’re looking for scenic landscapes or breathtaking waterfalls, there’s a hike for you. Hiking trails in Bali can take you to tucked-away temples and breathtaking waterfalls. Before embarking on a hiking adventure, it’s important to check out the best time to visit. To ensure the most enjoyable experience, hike during the drier months.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery and unforgettable memories. The Muntigunung trek, for example, takes you to a remote village in the northern part of Bali. Guests can experience life as a local and learn about their daily challenges. As you hike through the jungle, you’ll encounter wildlife and learn about their culture. In addition, the trek ends at an iconic cave.

Hiking in Bali is the perfect combination of active and leisure activities. You’ll visit a traditional Hindu village and a volcanic area, and your expert guide will explain Balinese customs and traditions. Throughout the trek, you’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of the tropical rainforest and rice fields. Moreover, you’ll have a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.

Diving in Bali is possible all year round, but the best months to visit are June to September, when manta rays are most plentiful. The best visibility is found in April to June, when the sea is around 25 degrees Celsius. During the rainy season, however, the sea is a little bit rougher, but otherwise the water temperature is always safe for diving.

There are several options for diving in Bali, and you can choose from reef dives, wreck dives, or black sand dives. Most dive sites are rocky or sandy and gradually drop in depth until 120 feet. In order to protect your feet while diving, you’ll want to wear diving shoes or flippers.

In Pemuteran, a few dive sites are great for beginners. One of these sites is Secret Bay, which has good visibility and a wide variety of critters. Another great dive site is Menjangan Island, which is part of the West Bali National Park. This island is accessible only by boat and offers healthy corals and fish, as well as fewer tourists.

Besides diving, Bali has other attractions that can make your diving experience a memorable one. The island’s proximity to other islands makes it a popular place for scuba divers to extend their trips. The Gili Islands are just off the coast of Lombok, and you can take a speedboat from Amed to the Gili Islands in an hour.

Diving in Nusa Penida

Diving in Nusa Penida, Bali is a great way to experience the island’s diverse underwater world. The waters off the coast are warm and full of beautiful corals and fish. Some dive sites are easy to access from the shore, while others require a boat ride. While diving in Nusa Penida, you’ll encounter plenty of beautiful marine life, and you can combine scuba diving with snorkeling to experience an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Nusa Penida dive sites can have strong currents or calm waters. Strong currents can make diving in Nusa Penida a challenge, but you can usually anticipate these conditions by checking the tide tables. Strong currents can reach five knots and change direction without warning. Moreover, the currents can be cold, so you should always stay alert when you go diving in Nusa Penida.

One of the best dive sites in Nusa Penida is Manta Point. The waters are murky due to plankton, which attracts manta rays. The manta rays come in groups and stay in the waters for extended periods. A scuba diver can spend most of his dive watching these magnificent creatures.

Diving in Nusa Penida, Bali is a great way to explore the island’s marine life. You can see manta rays, eagle rays, and many other colorful marine life. You can also see moray eels and turtles. And of course, don’t forget the coral reefs!

Fly Fishing

If you are looking for a way to get the adrenaline pumping, Fly Fishing is the activity for you. It combines the fun of tubing with the thrill of high-flying. You’ll ride a raft designed to lift in the air when approaching high-speed waves. The raft is tied to a boat, and the driver pulls you over the waves and speeds up, sending you “flying.”

Fly Fishing is an exciting activity that is relatively new in Bali. It is an activity where you will need a professional guide to help you, as well as all the necessary equipment. The boat that you’ll be riding on is called a “fish” and can hold up to three people. It is a challenging sport but is safe thanks to special safety equipment.

The Fly Fish activity can be done on the water in several locations, including Tanjung Benoa Beach. The Fly Fish activity is offered by Bali Water Sports, and the team provides international safety equipment to protect passengers. The boat has several positions where passengers can ride, including holding onto a rope in the middle of the boat.

Fly Fishing is an activity that requires you to wear a life jacket and other safety equipment. There are also safety ropes attached to the fishing boat and handles to hold onto while flying. The boat will pull you toward the middle of the beach, where a guide will stand on top of the flying fish. The guide will balance you as you fish, and make sure you’re safe.

What Are the Challenges of Adventure Tourism?

The challenges of adventure tourism are diverse and multifaceted. They range from the lack of a centralized safety standard to the impact on local communities. This article discusses some of the main challenges faced by adventure tourism. It also explores the issues surrounding attitude towards adventure tourism. In addition to these, it also offers solutions to some of the problems identified in the research.

Lack of a national adventure travel policy

Adventure travel is an increasingly popular genre of tourism. It involves travel involving perceived risk, physical exertion, and cultural exchange. In recent decades, the number of people taking part in adventure travel has grown significantly. However, a lack of a national policy governing the industry makes it difficult to quantify its size. According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association, adventure travel includes “any type of tourism activity that involves physical activity, cultural exchange, or engagement with nature.”

Lack of a centralized safety standard

One of the most important aspects of adventure tourism is safety. In most cases, adventure tours are run by unauthorized operators who do not follow any safety standards. This poses a risk to both tourists and tour operators. The government needs to regulate the industry and ensure that operators have adequate insurance and emergency medical care. Many of these activities are conducted in remote locations with few or no hospitals nearby.

Adventure tourism is often used as a form of recreation and can provide a quick escape from the rigours of daily life. It can also be a healthy way to find balance in life. However, it should never lead to a tragic incident. Unfortunately, these unfortunate events usually happen due to a chain of harmless events leading to a point of no return.

In the meanwhile, there is a need to research the effectiveness of various tourism recovery strategies and resetting the new normal of the industry. This research could also be used to explore the role of resilience in the industry and how to build resilience in a way that will allow it to operate responsibly.

As adventure tourism is a risky business, a crisis can be devastating to the business. It can affect the image of a destination and decrease the number of visitors. For this reason, it is essential to prepare for potential emergencies and implement a crisis management plan. By planning ahead, you can minimise your losses and maximize your opportunity.

While the government is encouraging the growth of adventure tourism, there are still many challenges. One of the biggest is the lack of adequate infrastructure for adventure tourism. This is particularly difficult in remote locations with limited connectivity. Therefore, many operators are not fully equipped to meet the needs of tourists.

There are several organisations that work to help you in crisis situations. The World Travel & Tourism Council, the Pacific Asia Travel Association, the Latin American Travel Association, and the African Travel & Tourism Association all have resources to help you out. Another helpful resource is the Adventure Travel Trade Association. This group provides extensive information about the adventure tourism industry. It also hosts information for tour operators and travellers.

Impacts on the local community

Adventure tourism has both positive and negative impacts on local communities. While it may be profitable for some businesses, it can also cause significant economic losses for some local communities. Adventure tourism can contribute to the conservation of natural areas while also benefiting local communities. Here are some examples of how adventure tourism can benefit communities.

A community that has an active tourism industry can expect positive social and economic impacts from the development of tourism. Local people often benefit from tourism by purchasing local products and souvenirs and supporting local businesses. It can also help reduce over-reliance on natural resources. However, tourism development can also have negative effects on the local community and the environment. This is because construction activities, pollution, and tourism activities can affect local communities.

Ecotourism is an increasingly popular method of adventure tourism. It involves using renewable resources and providing educational opportunities for the local community. Some ecotourist facilities use biodegradable shampoos and re-use bath towels. By using these sustainable methods, tourists can enjoy a guilt-free holiday without causing unnecessary harm to the environment.

Adventure tourism also creates jobs in local communities, which benefits local businesses and infrastructure. It also helps local communities thrive because it does not depend on seasonality, which means adventure tourism activities can be enjoyed year-round. The positive effects of adventure tourism can also help local communities become more dependent on adventure tourism and less dependent on other types of tourism.

In addition to providing jobs, adventure tourism also provides a positive image for local communities. It promotes education and raises morale, and it can help local communities attract investors. A healthy local economy will also lead to more investments. For this reason, it is essential to invest in local businesses.

Creating a healthy tourism environment requires careful planning and community participation. For example, local residents should be involved in infrastructure development and risk management. They should also be involved in the process of setting expectations for visitors.

Attitudes towards adventure tourism

Although adventure tourism is not a sustainable form of tourism, it does have some positive aspects. For example, it is a way for people to get away from technology and meet new people. It also allows people to relax and rely on their own knowledge and instincts. This can help to foster pro-environmental attitudes.

The research examined the influence of various independent variables on the attitudes of participants. It found that the majority of spectators were white and female, with an average age of 38. The study’s methodology included descriptive analysis, principle axis factor analysis with varimax rotation, and multiple analysis of variance. It is possible to predict whether a person will engage in a particular activity based on their level of risk perception.

Attitudes towards adventure travel are evolving in response to changes in consumer behavior. According to new research by ATTA and East Carolina University, consumers are increasingly seeking transformative experiences. This new concept is driving change across industries, including the travel industry. In fact, a recent study found that most adventure travelers seek experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

In addition to research on the physical aspects of adventure travel, there is also a growing body of literature regarding attitudes towards risk in this sector. Researchers have found that risk is a significant motivator in people’s decision to take part in these activities. In addition, people’s trust in the guides and advanced skills mitigate the risks associated with these experiences.

Researchers have also found that adventure guides report higher levels of well-being and a higher sense of environmental responsibility as a result of their jobs. Furthermore, they reported that they shared their love of nature with their clients. This research adds to emerging theoretical models on adventure guide wellbeing and identifies a range of practices that are vital for the sustainability of the industry.

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Top 10 Best Adventure Travel Companies

Need adventure but want someone else to organize it the best adventure tour and travel companies offer destinations and themes to suit every niche..

• Classic, wellness, rail, local living

• 18-29, cycling, food, retreats, expeditions

• Land, river, train, private jet

• Biking, culture, multisport, safari

• Small groups, private jet, expeditions

• Family reunions, solo parents, teens

• Camping, under 35, women, families

• Hiking, sea journeys, polari

• Hiking, skiing, culture, glamping

• Food, beer, shopping

We find the 10 best options, so you can make informed decisions on tons of products and services.

Who Is the Best Adventure Travel Company To Book With?

Nothing beats adventure travel, but who has time to organize it? Fortunately, you don’t need to plan every detail of your next trip, because there are countless adventure tour companies that can do it for you. 

The global adventure travel market has boomed in recent years, reaching a value of $586 billion in 2018. 

To help you plan your next trip, we compiled the following list of the 10 best adventure travel companies. The list begins with the best travel companies overall and ends with the best travel companies for segments of the population such as families, young people, and seniors.

1. G Adventures - Best Adventure Travel Company Overall

G Adventures was founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, who wanted an alternative to big tours and backpack trips. Today, G Adventures is one of the biggest adventure tour companies on the planet, with hundreds of tour options at any given time. G Adventures is well-known for its unique themes, such as ‘Local Living’ tours and the Jane Goodall Collection, wildlife adventure trips endorsed by the legendary primatologist herself.

Our favorite trip:  Local Living Italy-Tuscany San Gimignano. 7-day deep dive into the towns, vineyards, and countryside of central Tuscany, through the eyes of locals.

2. Intrepid Travel – Best Adventure Travel Company for Small Groups

Intrepid Travel is another of the pioneers in adventure travel. Founded in Australia in 1989, it is now the largest small group adventure tour company in the world. It is also the largest travel company to be certified as a B Corporation – a certification for businesses that balance profit with ethical behavior. Whatever your preference – family trip, under 30s group, vegan food tours – Intrepid travel has adventures for every niche. 

Our favorite trip:  Mexico Unplugged Lonely Planet Experience. 15-days of exploring the heart of southern Mexico’s Aztec, Zapotec, Maya, and Spanish cultures.

3. National Geographic Expeditions - Best for Unique Expeditions Led by Nat Geo Expert Guides

The National Geographic brand needs no introduction, although it’s less-known that Nat Geo offers world-class adventure tours for regular travelers. When you travel with National Geographic Expeditions, you get a unique expedition curated by National Geographic and led by Nat Geo’s own expert geographers, educators, filmmakers, anthropologists, and ecologists. Adventure travel doesn’t come any more professional than this.

Our favorite trip:  Epic Patagonia. 20-day expedition tracing the Chilean Coast aboard the National Geographic Explorer, a state-of-the-art, ice-class expedition ship. 

4. Austin Adventures - Best for Private & Custom Adventure Tours

Founded in the mid-80s, Austin Adventures is a family-owned company focused on high-end and custom expeditions. Every Austin trip has carefully placed ‘wow’ moments built in, like your guide popping around a bend in the trail with a pineapple carved like a fish on a silver platter. The other thing you’ll notice from reading some of the itineraries is how much attention is paid to selecting the best hotels , lodges, and haciendas.

Our favorite trip:  Indonesia – Bali Seatrek. 7-day adventure on Bali and neighboring islands, taking in remote beaches, coastal villages, volcanoes, waterfalls, and Komodo dragons.

5. Abercrombie & Kent - Best for Luxury Travel Adventures

The Abercrombie & Kent story began on the plains of Africa in 1962 when Geoffrey Kent and his parents began offering a new style of luxury adventure safaris. Today, A&K has luxury adventure tours all around the globe, offering incredible wildlife and wilderness with luxury accommodation and concierge service. 

Our favorite trip:  Signature Great Migration Safari. 6-night tailor-made journey for small groups, taking in the Serengeti, Masai Mara, and nights in luxury safari lodges.

6. Thomson Family Adventures - Best Adventure Travel Company for Families

As the name suggests, Thomson offers worldwide travel adventures designed for families. Thomson’s ‘adventure artisans’ curate every trip to include activities enjoyable to adults and kids (like hot air balloons!). The best thing about Thomson is it can accommodate all types of groups – from multi-generation trips to solo parents to families with teenagers. It can even accommodate large family reunions.

Our favorite trip:  Baja Multi-Sport Adventure. 7-day adventure in Baja California, incorporating activities like surfing, swimming with whale sharks, and snorkelling in the Sea of Cortez.

7. REI Adventures – Best Adventure Travel Company for Millennials

REI Co-op is one of the best-known companies for travel and outdoor gear. REI Adventures is its niche adventure travel division. The focus here is specialty trips, including under-35s, women’s adventures, family adventures, volunteering vacations, and weekend trips. Not surprisingly for a giant of the outdoors, REI Adventures can build tours around every activity imaginable – including backpacking, mountain biking, kayaking, and snowshoeing.

Our favorite trip:  Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country. 4 days of intense backpacking through the less-explored parts of Yosemite National Park.

8. ElderTreks - Best Adventure Tour Company for Travelers Aged 50+

While other adventure travel organizations have trips for older people, ElderTreks is one of the only companies solely dedicated to the 50+ crowd. ElderTreks offers a range of exotic adventure tours by land and sea in more than 100 countries. Its specialty is polar tours in Greenland, Canada, and the Arctic.

Our favorite trip:  High Arctic Explorer. 12-day trip through Greenland, Nunavut, and the Arctic Sea, taking in fjords, belugas and more from the comfort of the Ocean Endeavour.

9. AdventureWomen – Best Adventure Travel Company for Women

AdventureWomen is a women-owned-and-operated adventure tour company founded in 1982. It now offers dozens of women-only tours in more than 60 countries around the world. Its mission is to help women physically and mentally challenge themselves while exploring the world at their own pace and on their own terms. Although AdventureWomen’s audience tends towards 50+, it also has tours designed for 20-50-year-olds.

Our favorite trip:  Morocco: Sahara Sands, Markets, and a Feast for the Senses. 14-day cultural journey exploring Morocco’s culture, mountain villages, local markets, and amazing cuisine.

10. Urban Adventures – Best Travel Experiences for Foodies

Owned by Intrepid Travel, Urban Adventures is an adventure tour company focused purely on city experiences like eating, drinking, and shopping. In contrast to the other companies on our list, Urban Adventures doesn’t offer end-to-end tours. Rather, it offers short (mainly 1-day or half-day) experiences in cities around the world. Next time you’re travelling abroad, you can search Urban Adventures for local cooking, eating, and drinking experiences.

Our favorite trip:  Online Private Delhi Experience. Built for the new age of travel restrictions, this experience brings you an authentic vegetarian Indian cooking class straight to your home.

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Best Tour Groups for Families

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Traveling with kids can sometimes make you insecure about your ability to manage grand-scale trips, whether you are a fearless adventurer who once backpacked across Europe during your college years or your travels are relegated to a few transcontinental business trips a year. Even the best of us can be intimidated by the logistics of bringing young kids and/or unimpressed teens on what is meant to be an adventure of a lifetime.

Just how does one manage to find all modes of transport between multiple destinations; the right attractions and activities to appease every family member, regardless of age; and hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly -- on top of all the other pieces we need to put into place?

Enter tour groups. Before you grumble that these are meant for an older set and are guaranteed to include more bus rides than activity time, we're here to inform you that family tour operators have really gotten it right with a great array of travel options, services and family fun.

To date, a Danube River cruise with Adventures by Disney is one of my family's favorite trips. The kids adored the Adventure Guides, who felt like part of the family before the cruise ended, and they met other children their age to play with during the nonactive periods along the river. Outings were included and set up by age groups. We had choices of what we wanted to do, and with multigenerational trips including kids as young as 6 up to grandparents, this 10-day adventure through various countries was enjoyable and, actually, a piece of cake. Disney did all of the heavy lifting!

Can I Use Miles to Pay for a Group Tour?

While tour companies aren't as connected to the miles world as hotel chains and airlines, there are ways to both earn and use miles to pay for a group tour. To apply points to a group tour, you'll want to dip into fixed-value miles from programs that allow you to "erase" a travel purchase from your credit card statement: Think Capital One miles that you earn with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, or Barclaycard Arrival miles that you earn with the Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite Mastercard.

In the case of Capital One, you can "wipe out" any travel-coded purchase that's hit your statement in the past 90 days. Redeem your miles at a fixed rate: 1 mile equals 1 penny. You can redeem for a partial credit but need to redeem at least 2,500 miles.

Barclaycard Arrival miles work in a similar fashion with 1 mile equaling 1 penny in redemption. You can erase any travel-coded purchase you've made in the last 120 days. The downside in this case is that you need to have all of the miles in your account to erase the entire charge; Barclaycard doesn't offer partial redemptions. But you will get 5% of your redeemed miles refunded, so that's a nice bonus after the fact.

If you don't have fixed-value miles to help reduce the cost of your group tour, make sure to use a credit card that rewards for travel purchases when you book. The Chase Sapphire Reserve, for example, offers 3x the points for every dollar you spend on travel (excluding $300 travel credit). Considering tours can be a bit pricey (you are paying for convenience, after all), you could easily earn enough points for a cheaper future getaway.

Family-Friendly Group Tour Companies

Looking for tour operators that cater to families? Here's a look at the companies TPG has its eye on. All tour prices are per person without airfare.

Thomson Family Adventures

Since 1998, the Thomson family has offered small-group tours geared toward families like them who want to travel deeper by connecting to a country and its culture. Tours include a "Rafiki," or a friend, who will break the ice with the group and help keep things entertaining for the kids, while local expert guides show you around at a pace comfortable for everyone.

Thomson creates family itineraries that will take your brood back to ancient civilizations for tours that are not only family-friendly and fun but also educational. (Shh, the kids won't know they are learning on this vacation!) Trips are organized by activity level, so parents can select those best-suited to their children's needs. Multigenerational trips scheduled for 2019 can whisk your family off to exotic destinations like China, Egypt and Tanzania, as well as swings through the Caribbean and Europe.

Not only does your child get to explore faraway lands but he or she will also get to cultivate new friendships. Through the company's Friends Across Borders program, kids are paired with a child of similar age in the country you will be visiting so they can write to each other before and after the trip, and meet up at some point during your tour to potentially kick off a lifetime of friendship. We don't know of any other tour group that provides this.

Best Ages: 6 and up

Sample Starting Price: Thomson's popular seven-day Costa Rica Multi-Sport Adventure starts at $3,130 per person as of press time. On this trek, your clan will visit a sea turtle conservancy, learn to make chocolate and leave no stone unturned in Tortuguero National Park.

REI Adventures

The outdoor-lovers' go-to shop began uniting its customers with adventure tours more than 30 years ago, with many accommodations of the canvas tent or ecolodge variety. REI Adventures features 150 different trips across every continent (although the family junkets won't get you to Antarctica).

Family forays can be all-out exotic with rambles to Thailand and Machu Picchu , or within the national parks of the US, such as the Great Smoky Mountains or Zion and Bryce Canyon national park tours that will have the entire family enjoying the great outdoors. (Here are some tips for visiting national parks with kids.) You'll find three- and seven-day weekend getaway options, as well as seven- to 15-day adventures. REI has been committed to the environment since its founding in 1938. Every trek organized by the company practices green initiatives: using recyclable and reusable materials, minimizing environmental impact and following high ethical standards. The company also works in conjunction with host countries by offering meaningful cultural exchanges and patronizing local businesses.

Best Ages: Due to the tours' physical activities, REI Adventures is best-suited for active teens who can keep up with the hiking, kayaking, river rafting and biking that are often at the forefront of the tours.

Sample Starting Price: A three-day hiking weekend is $1,599 per person (with REI member discounts bringing the price down to $1,449), while a 10-day Thailand trip starts at $3,309 ($2,999 for members).

Points Perks: REI loyalty begins with $20 for a lifetime membership. As a member, you'll get discounted tours, as well as discounted classes, events, services and merchandise at REI locations around the world. Sign up for the REI Co-op World Mastercard and you'll get an additional 5% back on purchases at REI, as well as 1% back on everyday purchases with no annual fee. Plus, every purchase means a donation to the National Forest Foundation.

Intrepid Travel

By pairing three to five families with like-minded individuals, especially matching children of similar interests and ages, Intrepid Travel works to create lasting friendships along with its tours. Keeping the groups to no more than 10 people means more focus on you, and kids 17 and younger receive 10% off trip prices.

Family voyages are uber-exotic with Intrepid. You can explore the desert landscape of Morocco, the African valleys of Kenya and the opulent palaces of India. Any one of the action-packed journeys will combine activities that coincide with your child's school curriculum or hobbies.

Intrepid doesn't just show you the world, it gives back as well. Through the nonprofit Intrepid Foundation, funds have been distributed to support local and grassroots projects, including sustainable development, environmental conservation and wildlife protection.

Best Ages: Age minimums vary but start at 5 and up, depending on the location. Most children on these trips fall between 8 and 18 years of age.

Sample Starting Price: Imagine Morocco with the kiddos for eight days starting as low as $675 per person, not including airfare. Cross wind-swept dunes, ride a camel in the desert and get lost in the alleyways of bustling markets. (Single parents will love Intrepid, as well, because of its solo parent options with other solo moms and dads.)

Points Perks: Intrepid has its own loyalty program: After nine trips, you'll earn $1,800 toward a 10th tour when you become an Intrepid Legend.

Adventures By Disney

If you think creating "The Happiest Place on Earth" is all Disney can do, you haven't tried Adventures by Disney, the high-end, "we take care of everything" family travel company. You'll pay a pretty penny to join these tours, offered since 2005, but your entire family is guaranteed to have a blast with tours that include Disney-trained local guides who stay with you for the entire journey.

Immersing your family into the cultures you visit, ABD (as it is known by its fans) offers more than 30 adventures across six continents. Go deep into China with a visit to the Forbidden City, Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong, or traverse across Australia, from the Great Barrier Reef to Ayers Rock to the Gold Coast to Sydney. (Here are the best ways to use points and miles to fly from the US to Australia .) Disney goes big when it creates its cruising adventures and has partnered with AMAWaterways for ABD cruises throughout Europe. Trips range from three-day weekends to two-week adventures.

With backstage, one-of-a-kind tours, you'll skip lines and do things you wouldn't do on other tours like visit the Good Morning America studios in New York City or take an after-hours tour of the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel in Rome. From the moment you step off the plane, you'll have Adventure Guides with you so you feel like a VIP from start to finish.

Best Ages: Minimum ages start at 4 or 6 years of age, depending on the destination.

Sample Starting Price: Disney's tours are so great that its pricing falls under the "if you have to ask" category. They are expensive. A 12-day/11-night tour of China starts at $8,949 per person while a four-day/three-night tour of New York City starts at $2,929 per person.

Points Perks: The Chase Disney Visa returns 1–2% back in the form of Disney dollars, which can be used on Adventures by Disney tours. Or, put your ABD vacay on your Disney card, and use your rewards for a future Disney outing.

Lindblad Expeditions

Launched in Sweden by the explorer Lars-Eric Lindblad, the Lindblad family combines a National Geographic partnership with highly engaging expeditions that kids not only learn from but also will enjoy. With this program, certified field educators serve as tour directors and guides, helping your children connect with nature

Family and multigenerational expeditions make it easy for ages 8 to 80 to enjoy explorative travel together, all aboard adventurous small ship cruises that allow you to get up close to the wildlife of the Galapagos, Alaska, the Amazon River basin and even Antarctica. Kids under 18 get $500 off, and specials often include free airfare for everyone and bar tabs for parents. (Yes, it's a family affair, but it doesn't deprive parents on the journey.)

Best Ages: All trips designated Family Travel do not have any age minimums, although these explorations often require children to be old enough to handle active adventures.

Sample Starting Price: Spend 10 days touring the Galapagos starting at $7,290. 2019 is the 50th year Lindblad has been conducting expedition cruises to the land of Darwin, where kids will encounter giant tortoises and sea lions.

Tauck Bridges

Tauck has provided tours around the world for more than 90 years, but it is the Bridges arm of the company that was developed specifically for families, with tour directors who love kids and aim to please.

Tauck Bridges offers 20 different family experiences to choose from in 2019 and 2020. You'll find river cruises down the Danube, rafts through the Grand Canyon, wildlife safaris in Tanzania or horseback riding in America's cowboy country, and everything in between, including trips to Europe's most charming cities.

Tauck's commitment to the environment extends to its partnerships with esteemed National Geographic filmmaker Ken Burns on its Ken Burns American Journeys, while Earth Journeys is a partnership with BBC Earth.

Best Ages: Children must be a minimum of 4 years old for river cruises, 5 years old for safaris and 6 years old for its Galapagos cruise.

Sample Starting Price: Cross the border to the Canadian Rockies for a seven-day tour through Western Canada's famed national parks, Banff and Jasper. Your family will ride the river rapids, climb glaciers and hike in the beautiful hills starting at $3,640 per person.

Bottom Line

Let someone else do all of the planning and work so you can truly enjoy a vacation by taking a group tour that was specifically designed for families. The best way to lessen the cost of a big trip like this is by using your miles to get your family to the tour's embarkation point, and then focus on fixed-value points that can help "erase" all or part of the tour cost.

Have you booked a group tour for your family? Which company did you use and would you do it again?

Here are some more trip-planning resources:

• The Best Credit Cards for Family Travelers
• The Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Families in 2019
• How to Get a Family of 4 or More Into an Amex Centurion Lounge
• Tips for Using Frequent Flyer Miles for Family Travel

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Family Friendly Reviews & Ratings

Thank you john hu.

We recently returned from a three week trip to Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. Odynovo, and especially John Hu were recommended to us by a coworker who was very plea...

Response from Odynovo January 2020

It was obvious the company spent a lot of time and thought planning the trip.

I found the trip by CharlieTheTraveler to Egypt very organized. It was obvious the company spent a lot of time and thought planning the trip. This made it easy for m...

The history and modern culture of Egypt was emphasized

The history and modern culture of Egypt was emphasized in every activity on this trip. CharlieTheTraveler organized a balanced trip that gave me a well-rounded exper...

Everything was planned for me

I have never had such a laid back trip until I booked the Egypt tour through CharlieTheTraveler. Practically everything was planned for me and our tour guide made th...

Done it so well.

Planning a trip to a country abroad is stressful and overwhelming. Upon doing some research to help alleviate the stress, I found CharlieTheTraveler had a 9-day tour...

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Teenage Family Vacations

• Teenage Family Holidays

Teenagers often get a bad rep for being tricky travel companions; notoriously hard to please when it comes to family trips.

While they’re not all like that, we’ve designed a range of teenage-specific itineraries (for kids aged 10 and up) that yours will love. Adventurous, active and with plenty of outdoor family time; they’ll keep everyone happy (and away from their phones). Think trekking in the Himalayan foothills or seeking out the Big 5 in Kruger National Park – welcome to destinations without the drama.

Our Teenage Family Vacations

Could your teenage tribe do with a break? Remember, Intrepid offers a 10% discount for all travelers aged 17 and under.

South Africa Family Safari with Teenagers

12 days from 2275.

Enjoy this Teenage Family Adventure, while hiking, canoeing, snorkeling, rafting,...

Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers

9 days from 1229.

Get the most out of your family getaway by cycling, kayaking, walking and cruising...

Botswana Family Safari with Teenagers

10 days from 2012.

Take your family to Victoria Falls, Okavango River and Chobe National Park on this teen...

Bali Family Holiday with Teenagers

8 days from 1284.

Ricepaddles, rapids, bikes and beaches – find it all as you travel to Ubud, Candi Dasa,...

Summer Pyrenees Family Holiday with teenagers

8 days from 1126.

Walk, ride and raft on this European adventure into the heart of the Pyrenees. Unleash...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Cambodia Family Holiday with Teenagers

8 days from 855.

Encounter Cambodia's complex history and welcoming culture on a small-group family...

Turkey Family Holiday with Teenagers

8 days from 1615.

Exploring Turkey’s coast with your teenagers, visiting ruins in Xanthos, hiking...

Why choose Intrepid

Just for families

The clue’s in the title. These trips are for families only (including any aunts, uncles or cousins who’d like to come along, of course). As long as you’re travelling with a child under the age of 18, you’re a family in our eyes. Plus, unlike other travel companies, children aged 17 years and younger receive a 10% discount off the price of their trip.

Travel with other families

Travelling the Intrepid way is a bit like travelling with a group of friends. These trips are made up of 3–5 like-minded families, and the kids tend to hit it off straight away, allowing you to enjoy some well-earned R&R. We often find the whole family ends up making friendships with people from all over the world, staying in touch long after the adventure ends.

Small group sizes

Intrepid’s family group sizes are small enough to avoid the crowds and reach some out-of-the-way places, but big enough for a good social mix. Our average group size of 10 allows us to hop aboard local boats, buses or trains, eat at friendly, family-run restaurants and kick back in traditional accommodation and homestays.

Action packed

We know the biggest challenge on a family trip is keeping the kids entertained. So we’ve planned in advance. Nearly all of our hotels feature pools, and each day has a great mix of action-packed adventure and flexible free time. Your local leader can also suggest activities based on your kid’s hobbies or school curriculum.

Safety first

Our leaders are specially trained to run family adventures, so you’re well taken care of. You can also rest easy knowing we conduct safety assessments on all our activities to meet local standards as well as our own comprehensive safety policy. 

Sustainable travel

We strive to use travel as a force for good. That’s why we choose to give back to the communities we visit, carbon offset all our trips and take our social and environmental responsibilities seriously. We’ve been officially certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid Travel, you can rest assured you’re travelling to improve the planet.

Discover the temples of Angkor

Your teen doesn’t have to be a history buff to be blown away by ancient Angkor Wat. You’ll all enjoy exploring Ta Prohm – the root-covered jungle temple made famous by Tomb Raider – and Bayon – with its 54 towers decorated with over 200 enigmatic smiling faces.

Explore Machu Picchu

Follow in the footsteps of brave explorers on a four day hike to Machu Picchu – the lost city of the Incas. Take in sweeping views of the Sacred Valley, hike through moody cloud forests and discover ancient ruins and villages before arriving at the famous Sun Gate overlooking the city. 

Camp in the Okavango

Imagine falling asleep to the sounds of the African bush? The howl of a hyena, the distant trumpet of an elephant, the hum and buzz of insects. Spend two nights at an authentic bush camp on an island in the Okavango Delta. There are no bells and whistles here (no toilets, either!) – just you, your family, and the great outdoors.

Go rafting in Bali

There’s so much to love about a family holiday in Bali – it’s equal parts relaxing and exhilarating! And the adventure doesn’t get much better than white-water rafting along the Ayung River. Buckle up your life jacket, grab your paddle, and get set for an excellent adventure through rainforests, gorges and rice paddies.

Where we stay

We put a lot of care into choosing the accommodation we stay in, avoiding the big chain hotels in favor of locally run establishments offering a unique experience. Whether it's a rustic homestay in Thailand or a log chalet in South Africa, we choose good quality operators where most rooms will feature ensuites and air conditioning is standard. Wherever possible we pick hotels that provide triple or quad rooms and always try and offer conjoining rooms when they are available. 

Learn more about our accommodation

Mai Chau homestay, Vietnam

One of Northern Vietnam’s top nature escapes, Mai Chau and its rice fields and stilt houses play host to many minority groups, notably the White Thai people. Enjoy a night of friendly cultural exchange and tuck into a homemade banquet lovingly prepared by the locals.

Gulet in Turkey

It doesn’t get much better than a night on a traditional Turkish sailboat in the Mediterranean. All bedding is provided, decks have ample space for star-gazing, and with a bit of fresh water available to rinse off the salty stuff, you’ll be perfecting that stylish Euro hairdo in no time.

Family-run eco village in Nepal

A beautiful mountain retreat run by the same family for seven generations, this comfortable lodge has a nice green lawn on which to relax and admire the mountains from, and optional yoga on offer for those interested. It’s a treat to come home to after a solid hike in the Himalayas.

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Top 10 Family-Friendly Travel Destinations, According to Yelp

Looking for family travel ideas? Check out our guide to the best destinations for your family vacation

Ready for your next family adventure? With summer vacations on the horizon, we’ve mapped out the top family-friendly travel destinations across the US. From under-the-radar beach towns to charming Southern gems, and the birthplace of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream , this list features a variety of popular options for outdoorsy, foodie, or culture-seeking families.

Families are increasingly on the lookout for spots that are known to be kid-friendly. In fact, searches on Yelp for “good for kids” surged 88% in 2023 compared to 2021.* To make planning your travel itinerary a breeze, we’ve compiled activities and locales with our “Good for Kids” attribute on Yelp . We identified the top family-friendly destinations in 2024, by analyzing Yelp data in cities where “family friendly” searches saw significant increases, and finalized the rankings with the expertise of Yelp Trend Expert Tara Lewis.**

Browse this list to find your next family vacation destination, and top things to do along your route, including cultural landmarks, natural wonders, delicious dining spots, and more.

1. Fredericksburg, Texas

In the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg offers small town charm, just a drive away from bustling Austin and San Antonio. Experience the town’s German heritage at Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten for bites and sips, and a historical look at the Pioneer Museum . Visit the sprawling Wildseed Farms with acres of blooming wildflowers, and take home seeds for your own garden. For a family-friendly hike, head to nearby Enchanted Rock , a pink granite dome with views of Central Texas. While strolling and shopping Main Street, cool off with a Butter Pecan cone or Banana Split at Clear River Ice Cream .

2. Napa, California

While Napa may be best known for its premier wineries, the region offers plenty of incredible sites that can be uncorked for the whole family. Shop from local vendors at Oxbow Public Market , and dine at family-friendly restaurants like Boon Fly Cafe , which will delight Dr. Seuss fans with its Green Eggs and Ham. For a taste of culture, visit the Di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art , and its peaceful outdoor sculpture walk. Head over to Connolly Ranch for an educational wildlife experience that has everything from baby goats, wild gardens and chicken pens.

3. Charlottesville, Virginia

Founded in 1762, Charlottesville is a booming southern gem that’s rich in history and fun to discover. For fresh fruit and major views, head to Carter Mountain Orchard , named one of Yelp’s top apple picking spots in the country in 2023. There you can explore the grounds, pick ripe peaches and apples depending on the season, and sip on “divine” apple cider slushies . Satisfy your hunger at soul food spot and community staple, Mel’s Cafe , which Yelp reviewers love for its fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and old-school family atmosphere. For adventurous families, take an afternoon drive to Shenandoah National Park , where a variety of hiking options along the Appalachian Trail immerse you in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, along with its valleys and waterfalls. 

4. Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Don’t let the name deter you —in the center of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Kill Devil Hills is an under-the-radar, family-friendly beach destination. With multiple public beach access points, there are plenty of places to play, swim, or wind down. Check out Nor’Banks Sailing & Watersports for water activities like tubing, water skiing, and parasailing. At Ocean Atlantic Rentals , you can rent anything you may need, from umbrellas and baby cribs to cornhole and golf carts. For the history buffs, Yelpers recommend stopping by the historic site of the first successful airplane flights at the Wright Brothers National Memorial . Kill Devil Hills’ food scene isn’t a secret anymore, and in 2022, it was named one of Yelp’s Foodie Cities. For top restaurants that Yelpers rave are also good for kids, snag a table at The Kill Devil Grill and The SaltBox Cafe , two standout seafood joints which made our list of the Top 100 Places to Eat in the Carolinas in 2023.

5. Breckenridge, Colorado

In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge may be best known for its snowy peaks, world renowned ski resort , and nordic activities , but this cozy wonderland less than a two-hour drive from Denver is also a top spot for outdoor summer fun. Activities like whitewater rafting and ziplining excursions with the highly-rated guides at AVA offer adventure, while taking in the outdoors. You can also rent gear at Alpine Sports to paddleboard Maggie Pond, or hit the trails for some of the best mountain biking in the country. For a more laid back day, enjoy Breck’s walkable Main Street with shops and eateries, like the beloved family-friendly sports bar and arcade, Downstairs At Eric’s .

6. Burlington, Vermont

With its quaint mountain town charm, Burlington – the founding city of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream and rock band Phish – is also buzzing with creativity, quirkiness, and family-friendly attractions. At Shelburne Farms , families can explore walking trails, interact with farm animals, and watch cheesemakers craft. If you’re looking to treat yourselves, head to Burlington Bay Market & Cafe for burgers and maple “creemees” (Vermont’s take on soft-serve). Rent a bike at Local Motion Trailside Center Bike Rentals to explore the town and nearby trails, and make a stop to snap an unusual roadside photo for the ‘gram at the World’s Tallest Filing Cabinet . For those traveling in August, check out the Festival of Fools , which includes free performances ranging from music, acrobatics, comedy, and more on Burlington’s historic Church Street.

7. Ithaca, New York

In the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is known for its “gorges” views and waterfalls. Popular spots to experience nature’s beauty include Ithaca Falls near downtown, and Robert H Treman State Park for a picturesque hike and refreshing swim. Yelpers recommend heading to the expansive “Discovery Trail,” which conveniently showcases the best of Ithaca’s nature, science and art gems, including the Cornell Botanic Gardens , Sciencenter , Museum of the Earth , and more. Be sure to visit Cayuga Lake where Paddle-N-More can set the family up with kayaks, paddleboards and canoes. Got a sweet tooth? Grab a scoop or sundae at Purity Ice Cream , a local mainstay since 1936.

8. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia Beach is a popular destination for waterfront family vacations. The Virginia Beach Ocean Front boasts a 3-mile-long boardwalk prime for an idyllic day of playing, eating and shopping. Looking to catch some waves? Hone the family’s skills with lessons from the pros at Vb Surf Sessions , where you can also rent beach gear like chairs, games and toys. For an excursion from the beach, head to Hunt Club Farm for its petting zoo and pony rides, or The Virginia Aquarium for up-close looks at marine life as well as its onsite Adventure Park for ziplining. Finally, paint your own sea life souvenir at Mermaid Factory as a unique and creative keepsake to bring back home.

9. San Luis Obispo, California

On California’s Central Coast , you’ll find scenic views, a vibrant art and dining scene, and more in San Luis Obispo. Take in the sites from the Cerro San Luis Trail , or experience the visual arts at San Luis Obispo Museum of Art , which Yelper’s say is great for all ages, and regularly has family-oriented free events . Montaña de Oro State Park has sweeping views of the coast, along multiple stretches of tide pools full of sea life. For dinner, check out the Firestone Grill , which Yelp reviewers say is great for both adults and kids , and enjoy the outdoor seating. End your SLO adventure with a little nostalgia, by catching a movie at the historic Sunset Drive-In Theater .

10. Salem, Oregon

Set in the scenic Pacific Northwest, Oregon’s capital city of Salem offers plenty of family-friendly fun, from lush parks to museums and attractions. In the heart of downtown, Riverfront Park has sprawling areas to play and picnic, and is home to Salem’s Riverfront Carousel and the Gilbert House Children’s Museum . Just south of Salem, you can find Enchanted Forest , a unique seasonal theme park that will transport you to a storybook world of wonder. When you’ve worked up an appetite, Salem’s beloved brunch spot, Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro , has a hearty menu for parents and kids alike , including their popular Creme Brulee French Toast. 

As always, make sure to plan ahead by checking local travel advisories, guidance and seasonal hours of operation. Headed to another vacation spot, or opting for a staycation this year? Discover nearby family-friendly businesses by searching “Good for Kids” on Yelp !

Does your family have a favorite spot that’s both kid and parent-approved? Share with us on Instagram and TikTok @yelp!

Methodology

*Yelp identified trends within consumer searches by comparing the searches for “good for kids” in 2021 compared to 2023 in the U.S. To compare the change in volume of a specific search query, we evaluated the number of times per million searches the query was entered. 

**Yelp identified trends within consumer searches by comparing the searches for “family friendly” in 2022 compared to 2023 in the U.S. To compare the change in volume of a specific search query, we evaluated the number of times per million searches the query was entered.

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10 Family Adventures with Kids 2024

Posted: February 25, 2024 | Last updated: February 25, 2024

Traveling with kids can be a rewarding experience that creates lifelong memories but also has its unique challenges. From choosing kid-friendly destinations to packing the right gear, a little planning can make family travel fun and stress-free. This guide offers insights into destinations that cater to young travelers and provides practical tips to ensure a smooth journey for the whole family. Whether looking for adventure, relaxation, or educational experiences, these destinations offer something for every family.

1. Orlando, Florida, USA

Orlando, Florida, is a paradise for families, boasting an array of world-class theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Beyond these iconic attractions, the city offers interactive museums, wildlife encounters at places like Gatorland, and numerous water parks for cooling off in the Florida heat.

When planning your trip, consider staying at a resort with shuttle services to the parks to save on transportation. Balancing your itinerary with downtime at your hotel pool or a leisurely day exploring Orlando’s less crowded attractions can make the trip enjoyable for kids and adults.

Insider’s Tip: Purchase tickets in advance to save time and often money.

When To Travel: Visit during shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) to avoid extreme heat and crowds.

How To Get There: Fly into Orlando International Airport, which is well-connected to destinations worldwide.

2. London, England

London is an excellent destination for family travel, offering a mix of historical sites, kid-friendly museums like the Natural History Museum, and numerous parks for outdoor play. The city’s extensive public transportation system, including the iconic double-decker buses and the Underground, makes getting around with kids easy and part of the adventure.

Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, a spectacle that fascinates kids and adults alike. For a unique experience, consider a family-friendly West End show to introduce the kids to London’s renowned theater scene.

Insider’s Tip: Invest in an Oyster card for cost-effective travel on public transport.

When To Travel: Late spring and summer offer pleasant weather and many outdoor activities.

How To Get There: Fly into one of London’s major airports, with Heathrow being the most accessible.

3. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is a city of contrasts that fascinates families with its blend of traditional culture and cutting-edge technology. From exploring ancient temples to experiencing the future at teamLab Borderless, a digital art museum, there’s something to captivate every age. Kids will love the quirky animal cafes and the excitement of neighborhoods like Akihabara and Harajuku. Tokyo’s efficient public transportation makes navigating the city straightforward, though it’s worth avoiding rush hour when trains can be crowded.

Insider’s Tip: Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device for easy navigation around the city.

When To Travel: Spring for cherry blossoms and fall for mild weather and colorful foliage.

How To Get There: Fly into Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda airports.

4. Yellowstone National Park, USA

Yellowstone National Park is an outdoor wonderland that offers families the chance to explore geysers, hot springs, and an array of wildlife. The park’s Junior Ranger program is particularly popular, providing educational and fun activities for kids. Staying within the park, either camping or in lodges, allows for early morning or late evening wildlife spotting when animals are most active. Remember to respect the park’s rules and maintain a safe distance from wildlife for a safe and enjoyable visit.

Insider’s Tip: Visit geysers early in the morning to avoid crowds.

When To Travel: Summer for full access to all park areas.

How To Get There: Fly into airports near Jackson Hole, Wyoming, or Bozeman, Montana, and drive to the park.

5. Paris, France

Paris, with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, is a city that captivates families. The city is surprisingly kid-friendly, offering numerous parks for playtime, like the Jardin du Luxembourg and boat rides along the Seine. Disneyland Paris, located just outside the city, is a magical day trip for families. Exploring Paris at a leisurely pace, with time for enjoying pastries at a sidewalk café or a picnic in one of its beautiful parks, can make the trip enjoyable for all ages.

Insider’s Tip: Consider a Paris Pass to save on attractions and public transport.

When To Travel: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer tourists.

How To Get There: Fly into Charles de Gaulle or Orly airports.

6. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a natural playground for families, offering lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and an abundance of wildlife. Activities like zip-lining through the canopy, visiting animal sanctuaries, and relaxing on the beach keep families entertained.

The country is known for its commitment to conservation and offers many eco-friendly lodging options. Renting a car can provide flexibility for families wanting to explore different regions, from the cloud forests of Monteverde to the beaches of Manuel Antonio.

Insider’s Tip: Rent a car with a GPS to explore the country at your own pace.

When To Travel: From December to April, the dry season is the best time for beach activities and wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly into San José or Liberia airports.

7. Rome, Italy

Rome is a captivating destination for families, offering a journey through history with its ancient ruins and historic landmarks. The Colosseum and Roman Forum bring history to life, fascinating kids and adults alike. Don’t miss the chance to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain or explore the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel. Balancing sightseeing with relaxed moments, like enjoying gelato on a piazza, makes the trip enjoyable for everyone.

Insider’s Tip: Buy skip-the-line tickets for major attractions to avoid long waits.

When To Travel: April to June and September to October offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

How To Get There: Fly into Rome’s Fiumicino Airport.

8. Canadian Rockies, Canada

The Canadian Rockies are an outdoor paradise for families who love nature. Banff and Jasper National Parks offer breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing, and a range of outdoor activities like hiking and canoeing. Staying in a cabin or a lodge within the parks enhances the experience, allowing families to wake up surrounded by nature. The region is also great for winter sports, with several ski resorts offering family-friendly slopes.

Insider’s Tip: Stay in a cabin for a cozy and authentic mountain experience.

When To Travel: Summer for hiking and winter for skiing.

How To Get There: Fly into Calgary or Edmonton and drive to the national parks.

9. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a vibrant city offering a mix of culture, history, and family fun. Kids will be enchanted by the whimsical architecture of Antoni Gaudí, including Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia. The city’s beaches provide a perfect spot for relaxation after a day of sightseeing. Exploring the Gothic Quarter, with its narrow streets and hidden squares, is like stepping into a fairy tale.

Insider’s Tip: Use the hop-on-hop-off bus for an easy and fun way to see the city.

When To Travel: Late spring and early fall are good for weather and fewer tourists.

How To Get There: Fly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport.

10. Sydney, Australia

Sydney is a dynamic city that offers a perfect blend of urban exploration and natural beauty. The Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are must-sees, while the city’s beaches, like Bondi and Manly, offer a chance to relax and play. The Taronga Zoo and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium are great for animal-loving kids. Taking a ferry ride in Sydney Harbour is not only a mode of transport but an adventure in itself.

Insider’s Tip: Buy a Sydney Attractions Pass for discounts on multiple attractions.

When To Travel: September to November and March to May for mild weather.

How To Get There: Fly into Sydney Airport.

The Bottom Line

Traveling with kids can be an enriching experience for the whole family. By choosing the right destinations and planning ahead, you can create a trip that’s enjoyable for travelers of all ages. Remember, the key to a successful family vacation is balancing activities, rest, and a little adventure. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and set off on a journey that will create lasting memories and stories to tell for years to come.

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The post 10 Family Adventures with Kids 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / New Africa.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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