The Good, Bad and a Brutally Honest Contiki Review (Are Contiki Tours for You?)
By: Author Taylor Lorenz
Posted on Last updated: 04/29/2022
To kick off my solo travel career I opted to try a group tour so I wasn’t 100% alone. It was through a friend that I heard of Contiki tours and soon after I found myself on not only one, but three different tours back to back.
But what’s the truth, the brutally honest truth of Contiki travel? Below I cover exactly what to expect as one of few completely honest Contiki reviews.
Keep in mind that this is based on my experiences and that others may have had significantly different experiences, though the majority agree that Contiki tours are awesome and a wildly good time.
Table of Contents
What is Contiki?
Contiki is a tour company created for 18-35’s who want to travel the world and live by the Contiki slogan #NOREGRETS. They do a pretty good job of following up with their slogan on trips that are pretty much dream itineraries for travellers who want to see as much as possible with limited time.
Contiki offers tours for destinations around the world including Europe, Asia, USA and Canada, Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand and their latest tours are now in Africa too.
With tours as short as a weekend to as long as 45 days, there is something for everyone. They offer budget to luxury, priding themselves in offering eight different travel styles. And with 53 years of tours under their belt, they know a thing or two about doing it right.
They’re also known for having 50% of their travelers as solo travelers, making it easy to meet others.
Contiki Europe Reviews
I personally only went on Contiki tours in Europe and I did the following two:
- London to Athens Plus Mykonos and Santorini Island Escape
- Oktoberfest
My short take Contiki tour reviews? All of these tours are awesome and I would recommend them to anyone travelling solo or who wants to see as much as possible in a short amount of time.
Expect for Oktoberfest, that was a completely different type of trip and it was too, totally awesome with excursions and transfers and Oktoberfest tables organized for you.
Should you go on a Contiki tour?
This is the short answer.
Yes, if…
- You like to party
- You want everything organized for you
- You’re a solo traveler wanting to meet people
- Your budget is not small
No, if…
- You have a tight budget
- You don’t care about meeting people
- You want to explore more in places
- You like luxury or relaxation
And for the long answer…read through these highlights and not-so-great things about Contiki tours to help you make a more informed decision.
READ MORE: 15 Benefits of Travelling Alone
Kind of People on Contiki Tours
If you’re Australian and are debating going on a Contiki tour to get away from your country or to meet people from around the world…you’ll probably end up meeting more Australians than anything. Little did I know before leaving for the trip that Contiki tours are insanely popular in Australia and widely known across the country.
When I mentioned Contiki tours to people back home in Canada, not many knew what I was talking about.
Contiki Culture
Contiki tours are targeted to a younger market, with most traveler’s being between the age of 19-23. That age is a party age. So if you’re not a big partier then you may want to reconsider.
I’m not saying that it isn’t fun without the partying because it is, you still do and see awesome things, but there is usually a lot of drinking involved. Like drinking almost every night. It’s always a good time.
Contiki Tours for Solo Travellers
There’s something about traveling with people that really affects how quickly you become close. In no time you will find some people who you mesh well with, and by the end of the trip, you’ll be crying because you have to go on your separate journeys.
These tours bring people together in a way that’s different than your friends at home which make them ideal for solo travellers. Since my tours I’ve met up with multiple people and travelled with a few from these trips. Travel friendship bonds you in a way like no other.
What are Contiki guides like?
The guides are so much more than a guide. They’re not just the ones telling you what time you have to be on the bus by, they’re also the ones partying with you until the last one calls a quit.
They’re not just giving you phenomenal tours of a city, they’re also there to chat with you at breakfast. They’re not just your tour guide, they’re also a part of your family, your Contiki family which you’ll love dearly in the end.
What are the groups like?
Put a bunch of boys and girls together, mix in a lot of drinking and spontaneous decisions because well why not, you’re on vacation! And you’ll find some drama, usually amongst the girls, and usually over a boy. You’re with the same people on a bus day in and day out, cliques can form and people get mad when boys sleep with more than one girl. Shit happens, people get jealous, this is nothing new, but something that can be expected.
Luckily this never happened on my trip! Though my big tour was 30 girls and 4 boys, two of which were gay, one found out his girlfriend at home was pregnant while on the trip and the last ended up marrying one of the girls he met on the trip!
Contiki Cough
Don’t be surprised to hear from past Contiki tour goers about the Contiki cough. You’re on a Contiki bus with the same people and sharing rooms, someone is bound to get sick. And then it spreads. With the lack of sleep and busy schedule you know one person will get sick and share their gems amongst everyone. Most common is the Contiki cough, or a cold, or both.
What do you see on a Contiki trip? What is the pace like?
Tours in general are known for being quite quick and the Contiki tours are no different. I took a slower pace tour and found myself jumping from city to city in the blink of an eye. You can spend anywhere from 1-3 nights in each city, which some people think is too little.
I like to think of it as a small taste of each place. It’s just enough to know if you like the vibe of a place before you move on. Then you’ll know exactly where you’ll want to come back to in the future.
The good news is that different kinds of tours are offered for different paces, budget and accommodation style.
READ MORE: Groups Tours: Are They A Good Idea for You?
Is there any freedom?
Yes! What’s great about Contiki tours is that it’s not back-to-back events with every minute of your day planned. There are nightly events which you can attend (at an extra cost) or you can do your own thing. As long as you’re on the bus when you need to be, that’s the only time the tour guide ever does a headcount.
You’ll always have the day to yourself. This is when your tour guide and bus driver will take a break and you and your new-found BFFL can see all the sites your heart desires.
Food & Accommodation
If you want local experiences, to try amazing food, and stay in good accommodations then don’t take a Contiki budget tour. I can’t vouch for their luxury trips but the budget ones bring you to restaurants that every tour goes to, and accommodation can have bed bugs (guess who slept in a hotel lobby in Greece because we discovered bed bugs in our room at 2AM?).
Accommodations are often outside the city centre because they are cheaper. You have time to discover your own tasty food during the day and opt to go out for your own dinners if food is important to you.
Best Contiki Tours
Ready for a Contiki trip? These are a few of the most popular Contiki holidays that look pretty epic. As you’ll soon realize, Contiki Europe is the most popular.
Greek Island Hopping
Countries Visited: Greece (Paros, Santorini, Mykonos and Ios) Tour Length: 11 days Best for: More relaxed, chilled travellers
European Discovery
Countries Visited: England, Belgium, Netherlands, France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland Tour Length: 12 days Best for: Travellers with limited time who want to see the most
Simply Italy
Countries Visited: Italy, Vatican City Tour Length: 15 days Best for: Italy in-depth
Countries Visited: Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland Tour Length: 8 days Best for: Ireland in-depth
European Horizon
Countries Visited: England, Netherlands, France, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland Tour Length: 11 days Best for: Europe highlights with minimal time
Is Contiki Worth It?
Only you can decide.
Contiki Tour Highlights
- Maximize what you get to see in limited time
- Make great friends
- My Contiki seamlessly makes handling documents and meeting people a breeze
- You never have to worry about booking a thing or transportation
- Expert guides who go above and beyond
- Ideal for solo and group travellers
Contiki Tour Downsides
- Expensive (as are all tours)
- Always large groups (which could be a good or bad thing)
- Heavy focus on partying (only a downside if you’re not into that)
- Fast-paced aka little time for relaxation on the majority of the tours but not all
The truth about Contiki tours is that they’re made for young travelers, people looking to have a great time, see some sights, drink some French wine, and meet people. The experience is as much of a party,and about meeting people as it is about travel.
People will sleep together, you will see some amazing sights, you’ll make good friends, you’ll get little sleep, you’ll party lots, you’ll try unique experiences for each area, and most of all, you’ll come out of it with no regrets (as they promise), which is pretty good. Just don’t be one of those people who gets #NOREGRETS tattooed on them and I’m sure you’ll leave with none.
The simplest truth is that you’ll spend a decent amount of money, you’ll have a great time and you’ll scratch the surface of travel, seeing only the best of the best things to see in each place.
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Contiki Review – Travel Tours, Group Vacations & Adventure Holidays
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Table of Contents
Who are contiki tours good for, contiki tour types and destinations, contiki top tours, contiki reviews, contiki vs. topdeck, final thoughts.
We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.
Contiki provides travel tours for young adults. The tour company was incorporated in the mid-1960s after a group of friends posted a flyer on a noticeboard advertising space on their 12-seater minibus to travel around Europe. To this day, group travel is still immensely popular, as you not only get to explore a fantastic destination, but you get to make lots of friends in the process.
Contiki is one of the best European bus tour companies out there, but it also offers group tours all over the world. Many tours use coaches, and groups can be as large as 52 people. In some destinations such as Africa and Latin America, group sizes can be as small as 12 people up to a maximum of 30.
Each tour has a driver and a trip leader that will be with you for the entire journey, and local expert guides will also join you for specific activities. With your travel, accommodations, and itinerary arranged for you, all you need to worry about is having an incredible time.
Young Travelers
Contiki tours are exclusively for travelers from 18 to 35 years old so that you can experience a new destination with like-minded young vacationers. The tours are incredibly social and many travelers meet lifelong friends. Including a combination of scheduled activities and free time, the tours let you tick-off bucket list experiences and landmarks before enjoying a beer with your new pals.
Solo Travelers
Whether you’re an experienced traveler or are embarking on your first solo trip, Contiki tours are perfect for single travelers. You’ll experience the excitement of independent travel while having the logistics taken care of. Rather than having to approach a new friend in a hostel bar, you’ll get to know your fellow travelers in a less daunting environment.
Tour prices are based on twin sharing with a fellow traveler of the same gender, but you can also upgrade to a private room for a fee.
Friends or Groups
It’s not just solo travelers that choose Contiki tours. Groups of friends often join tours together as they love the idea of meeting more new people as well as getting to travel with their friends. You can all book your places and pay final balances independently, avoiding 1 person having to be responsible for everyone’s finances.
Everyone has different preferences when it comes to travel. To help travelers choose which tours might suit their travel style, Contiki has tagged its tours under various categories.
Contiki’s Adventure tours include the usual transport and accommodation, but they also include unique travel experiences for adventurous types. You could be quad biking through the Cambodian countryside or soaring high above the Sonoran Desert in Arizona in a hot air balloon.
Hot Tip: Be sure to check out our adventure travel essentials before your next trip.
African Safari
Africa’s incredible landscapes are teeming with wildlife, large and small, from majestic elephants bathing in watering holes to color-changing desert chameleons. African Safari tours include plenty of wildlife encounters and other bucket-list experiences such as Victoria Falls, the Sossusvlei salt pans, and Table Mountain.
Beach Trips
Contiki has picked some of the best beaches in the world to create tours with the perfect blend of sun, sea, adventure, and nightlife. Beach Trips tend to follow the coastline of a destination, so you can enjoy surf lessons to beach yoga and sunset cocktails to fresh seafood dining.
Hot Tip: We take the pain out of packing for your beach vacation with this printable packing list .
Discoverer trips offer an excellent balance of culture, iconic sights, and adventure. You’ll tick off lots of bucket list experiences as well as authentic local encounters, which are often the most memorable moments. These tours are generally longer than 9 days, so you’ll get to immerse yourself in a destination.
Iconic Essentials
Iconic Essentials tours cover comprehensive itineraries around Europe and include some excursions and lots of free time. This means that you can tailor-make your trip to only see the sights that are important to you. If you’re used to traveling solo or are skeptical about touring, this tour type could be a good compromise — travel and accommodation are arranged but many of the excursions are optional.
Hot Tip: Check out the best compact, mirrorless, and DSLR cameras for travel so that you can capture iconic sights on your tour.
In-Depth Explorer
In-Depth Explorer tours enable travelers to experience a destination like a local, with lots of authentic experiences to immerse yourself in the local culture. Accommodations include well-situated, independent hotels, so you’ll enjoy the comfort and convenience while knowing you’re supporting local communities.
Island Hopping
Why stay on 1 island when you can experience them all? Island Hopping tours allow travelers the opportunity to experience the unique culture and quirks of island life while enjoying the journey in between. Relax on palm-fringed sandy beaches, sip a cocktail while watching an island sunset, or go in search of marine life with a snorkel or diving excursion.
Hot Tip: Make sure you’re prepared for your beach tour with these recommendations for the best travel beach towels and blankets .
Sailing and Cruise
Sail between beautiful islands and buzzing port towns with a Sailing or Cruise tour. On some tours, your ship is your transport and your accommodation, so you’ll only need to unpack once for your whole trip. When it comes to sightseeing, you’ll get the best of both worlds, with regular stops for land-based exploration and plenty of incredible views of the coastline.
Short Trips and Festivals
Short Trips and Festival tours are great for those who want to explore a city for a couple of days or combine their holidays with a festival or celebration. These include music festivals, New Year’s Eve celebrations, or local public holidays, so you can celebrate in style while soaking up the local culture.
Hot Tip: If you’re heading away on a short break, you might want to upgrade to one of these recommended carry-on bags , including wheeled cabin bags and backpacks.
Ski and Snowboard
Ski and Snowboard tours offer the perfect solution if you’re looking to explore a new destination while getting in some slope time. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, you’ll have the option to book lessons and chances are there will be someone on your tour of a similar standard. Enjoy the cool and crazy vibes of Tokyo before taking a train to one of the nearby ski resorts or hit the slopes in Lake Tahoe on a sightseeing trip through California, Arizona, and Nevada.
Small Group
Some of Contiki’s groups accommodate up to 50 people, which some travelers love, as it allows them to meet more people. If you prefer a smaller, more intimate travel experience, Contiki offers Small Group tours with tours averaging 12 to 24 people.
Volunteering
Contiki’s Volunteering tours allow travelers to give back to the countries and communities they’re exploring. Volunteer tours combine exploration with a service element, such as participating in sustainable development projects.
Other Tour Types
Contiki has a variety of other tour types:
- Backpacking
- Christmas Tours
- Group Travel
- Guided Tours
- Hiking and Trekking
- New Year’s Eve Tours
- Sightseeing
- Solo Travel
- Winter Holidays
- World Tours
Destinations
Contiki provides over 350 tours to 75 destinations within these countries, continents, and regions:
- Latin America
- Middle East
- New Zealand
- U.S. and Canada
Contiki Australia
Contiki offers itineraries of up to 22 days to explore this vast country. Many cover the popular east coast from Sydney to Cairns, while others venture into the remote outback to watch the sunset at Uluru. Sail around the Whitsundays, learn to surf at Byron Bay, or see where the rainforest meets the reef at Cape Tribulation.
- Includes transport, accommodation, breakfast, and some activities
Hot Tip: As flights are not included in the tour price, you might be interested in the best ways to fly to Australia with points and miles .
Contiki Europe
Contiki is well-known for its European bus tours, but some destinations utilize transportation by train or boat for coastal areas. It’s usually unnecessary to fly between destinations as combination tours like European Discovery typically cover neighboring countries. Let’s take a look at a sample of what’s available.
Contiki Croatia
You can discover Croatia as a standalone tour or as part of a combination Balkans or European tour. With one of the longest coastlines in the Mediterranean, it’s the perfect sailing destination, stopping at the historic coastal cities of Dubrovnik and Split and the beautiful islands of Korčula and Hvar.
- Includes transport, accommodation, some meals, and activities
Contiki Greece
You can island-hop your way around Greece or visit as part of a wider European tour. With most tours starting in Athens, you can explore the iconic Acropolis and Olympic Stadium before sailing between the likes of Mykonos, Santorini, and Ios.
Contiki Italy
Contiki runs a wide variety of trips to Italy, ranging from week-long tours visiting some of its most iconic cities and coastlines to 45-day European tours. From exploring Roman ruins and floating cities to sampling fresh pasta or delicious wine at a 16th-century Tuscan winery, you’ll most definitely be living la dolce vita .
Contiki Japan
Japan is an enchanting county of contrasts, from bustling cities to ornate temples and magnificent mountains to war memorials. With the high-speed bullet train, it’s pretty easy to get around to Kyoto and Hiroshima, and some tours include a trip into the mountains for skiing or snowboarding.
Hot Tip: If you’re planning to visit Japan in Spring, take a look at our ultimate guide to the cherry blossom festivals .
Contiki New Zealand
Explore the North Island, South Island, or both with a Contiki New Zealand tour. Cruise across the Bay of Islands, go white water rafting down Kaituna River, or spend a night on the town in Wellington. Contiki tours range from 6 to 19 days.
- Includes transport, accommodation, some meal, and activities
Hot Tip: If you’re flying from the U.S. to New Zealand, find out which U.S. airports Air New Zealand flies direct from .
Contiki Thailand
Embark on the ultimate Thailand adventure and tour the northern jungles of Chang Mai and the exotic coastlines and islands of the south. If you’re looking to visit more than 1 country, some tours combine Thailand with neighboring Cambodia or Malaysia.
Contiki USA & Canada
If you’re looking for a tour closer to home, Contiki offers trips throughout the U.S. and Canada. These range from 2-night city breaks exploring Los Angeles , Orlando, or New York, or trips up to 26 days covering most of the eastern and southern states.
Hot Tip: If you decide that a group tour isn’t for you, check out the best road trips in the U.S. that might inspire you for your next vacation.
My Contiki is a platform for you to manage your profile and bookings and view trip itineraries, including the details for your Trip Manager (the person responsible for running the trip day-to-day). If you want to chat beforehand with people that will be on your tour, you can do this in the Meet Up area and you can also access any social media groups that the Trip Manager or your fellow travelers might set up.
Contiki is a well-reviewed tour company with the following overall ratings:
- Feefo : 4.6 out of 5
- Contiki.com : 4.6 out of 5
- TourRadar : 4.7 out of 5
These are some recent reviews from some of Contiki’s top tours. It’s clear to see that the Trip Managers contribute hugely to the enjoyment of the tours. The majority of the negative reviews for Contiki center around the lively nature of the tours and a focus on drinking culture. While this may suit some young travelers, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.
Australian Outback Adventure “The trip itself was incredible, we had so many activities, most of them you had to pay for but it was defiantly money well spent, it was worth it!! There was a lot of travelling involved but it was all an amazing adventure, and we got to get to know everyone much better.” — Emma Mccaw
Croatia Island Sail “Dani was incredible, made it such a fun experience. She was so knowledgeable with history and local tips. Gave us plenty of down time and got the party started at the right times. It was a great week and would definitely recommend to friends” — Harriet Gilmour
Japan Winter Wonder “The trip manager was absolutely brilliant. We visited amazing places and our accommodation was very good. We were well looked after and our trip manager always made sure we were enjoying ourselves. There was so much to do everywhere we went and there just weren’t enough hours in the day to do them all but we always saw the highlights in every city.” — Anonymous
New Zealand The Big Tiki “Honestly can say one of the best trips I have been on! Amazingly well organised and the included activities were very good. A big thanks to Dan and Pat for organising it all so well and going above and beyond to make sure we made it to our activities!! The accommodation was very very good and I thought the itinerary covered everything key.” — Anonymous
Spotlight on Greece “The trip manager was really cool and took us to amazing local spots! The activities went from nature to museums to wine and dining! It was all a blast and I highly recommend for anyone who has only a week to get away! The locals are all so friendly and the food is amazing! Beautiful hotels and easy transportation included! A must see!!” — Melanie Button
Thai Island Hopper East “Everything was great. Especially for the price of the trip. Trip manager was amazing and everything was set out for us. Best experiences with not a worry in the world.” — Alexander Brighton
United States Grand Southern “Trip is well thought out stopping at great spots around the U.S. The extra add ons were fantastic, a large variety of what you normally get on organised tours. The trip manager Hayley Jo was beyond amazing, she went above and beyond to make sure anything was possible on the trip! Would highly recommend the Hot air balloon and snowmobiles, was such a great day!” — Emma Walker
Topdeck is another popular tour company covering many of the same destinations as Contiki , with both companies extremely popular for European bus tours. Both appeal to the same target market, however, Contiki does have a firm age limit of 35, and Topdeck caters to “18-30 somethings.” The travel style is very similar across both operators with socializing at the core, and both offer small group tour alternatives for those looking for a less party vibe.
When it comes to cost, Topdeck comes in cheaper than Contiki on the overall tour price, but this is often because there are more entrance fees and excursions included with Contiki. Topdeck provides a lot more free time, so any activities would be additional.
Contiki is an extremely popular tour company for young people, but large group tours are not going to suit everyone’s travel styles. Contiki tours are known for their lively, party atmosphere, which many travelers love. It’s as much about meeting new people and socializing as it is about exploring a new destination for them.
Many travelers make lifelong friends within their tour group, and the company states that many people have even found love on a Contiki tour. Contiki recognizes that not everyone wants to travel in a large group and has created some tour categories that have a more in-depth focus on the destination or for traveling in smaller groups.
As with other group tour operators such as G Adventures and Intrepid Travel , Contiki is committed to sustainable travel by supporting local communities, ethical animal experiences, and planting 1 tree for every traveler that uses e-documents.
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Going On a Contiki: What You Need to Know as a Solo Traveller
Published 10 September 2024
Alexander Goldsmith
Going on a Contiki is a rite of passage for many young kiwis going on their OE. It’s a way to travel the world, get involved with different cultures and expose yourself to a blend of sightseeing and heart-thumping activities. What it’s most famously known for is travelling with friendly and like-minded travellers between 18-35 years old.
For a solo traveller this can seem quite overwhelming. With a lot of different tours to choose from, and a lot of myths around what happens on a Contiki, how does one prepare for a Contiki and survive being on the road with complete strangers?
I have just returned from my first Contiki as a solo traveller around Europe and it’s fair to say I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had heard of all the tales about what a Contiki involves and felt I had to gear myself up fit for it. At the same I wanted to experience Europe with the convenience of accommodation, transport and activities pre-planned and have some mates to share one-in-a-lifetime experiences with.
This guide will hopefully shed some light on what’s involved in a Contiki and will help inspire you to make the most of your bucket list adventure.
- Choosing Which Contiki to Go On
- What to pack
Making Friends
Free time add-on experiences.
- Looking After yourself
Choosing Which Contiki to Go On
With a plethora of options, choosing the right Contiki tour for you might seem like an impossible choice. Start by considering what type of experience you’re after, do you want a fast-paced adventure across multiple countries (like the 45-day Ultimate European Tour) or do you prefer a more relaxed itinerary focused on a single region? A general rule of thumb is the longer the trip, the larger the group. On tours such as Mexico Grande and the Grand Southern, you can have up to 50 travel buddies. While on tours such as Thai Island Hopper West, the maximum is 30. For myself, I was venturing into Europe for the first time and I wanted to cover as much ground as possible. I wanted to see the main culprits of Europe (France, Italy, Spain) but also had a dream to live my Mamma Mia fantasy and venture to the Greek Islands. I decided to book the London to Athens tour with Greek Island Hopping. Totaling at 27 days (about 4 weeks), the first 17 days are fast paced where you are in full sightseeing mode taking as many pics as possible. The last ten days you are in the picturesque Greek Islands, where you can spend your days chilling by the beach and poolside sipping on your cocktail, before spending your evenings in the vibrant nightlife and having a good boogie. Depending on the tour there are different types of travel styles. You can stay in hostels, hotels, tented safari camps, eco-lodges, beach resorts and even a 16th century French Chateau (I stayed in the Chateau, was very cool). For the general Europe tours, you can choose between the Standard Tour where you are staying in hostel dorms with up to 5 other travellers, or you can do the Plus Option which is more expensive, but means you are in 2-3-star hotels in a twin-share room. Hostel living is not for the faint-hearted, several people on my tour had never stayed in a hostel before and got bit of a rude awakening. If you do appreciate the finer things in life, I would recommend opting for the Plus Option. In saying that, staying in a hostel is very much part of the Contiki experience. It builds a sense of comradery between you and your fellow travellers. It leads to some important bonding time and is also great for the wallet, meaning you have more cash to spend on the ground or on your Free Time Add On Experiences.
What to Pack
So how do you pack for weeks on the road, well if going on the 45-day Ultimate European, you probably can’t pack 45 pairs of undies! Contiki coaches have a strict weight limit of no suitcases over 20kg. You are only allowed one suitcase per passenger and one backpack to bring on board.
A must have are comfortable walking shoes as you will be getting the steps in and want to avoid blisters. Hostels will not always provide towels so make sure you bring a beach towel. When it comes to bags, I suggest bring a cross-body bag for daily outings so you are not always lugging your backpack.
Take into account the season you are travelling in, for example going to Greece I kept my outfits light with short sleeves, linens and of course the togs. But also make sure to pack some more modest options in case you visit any churches or religious sites such as The Vatican.
Even when travelling in summer you might get some rainfall so always have a jumper and some sort of rain jacket or umbrella. Do pack some nicer gear for if you are going out for dinner or a night in town.
Also a must have is a reuseable water bottle. Getting plastic water bottles every day is an expense you don’t need.
The good news is most hostels you go to will have laundry facilities you can use to clean your clothes, I would very much recommend you make the most of any chance to use a washing machine, so you are not known as the stinky one on the tour.
Going on a Contiki means you will have a busy social life, meeting and hanging out with like-minded travellers, but the idea of meeting new people can be rather nerve-wracking. First thing to know, everyone is feeling the same way, about 70% of Contiki travellers are solo travellers so they too will be keen to make friends! Another interesting fact, 65% of Contiki travellers are women, so you will most likely be part of a supportive sisterhood.
On day one your Trip Manager will do some ice-breakers and activities for you to get to know each other and get rid of any awkwardness. On my tour we had to do speed dating, where we went around the bus introducing ourselves to each person, it was a good way for me to suss out the vibes of each person and choose who I wanted to spend more time with!
About a month before the trip starts, you can see who else is going on your tour. This means you can do a good stalk of their Instagrams or even plan to meet up a day or two before the tour starts if you are arriving a couple of days beforehand.
Going on a Contiki means you will either be paired with one or two other roommates or popped in a dorm with lots of pals. You may be skeptical, you may not want to share a room with a stranger, but this is probably the easiest way to make friends.
My advice is to embrace being a social butterfly, take your time to work your way around the group and meet as many people as you can. Naturally over time cliques are going to be formed, but not restricting yourself and getting to know more than one group on the tour will lead to more friendships.
If you are an introvert or a bit shy that’s ok! But remind yourself that everyone in your group is here for the same reason – to see new places and make new friends along the way.
On my tour not only was I a solo traveller, but the majority of travellers were Aussies so I was well and truly in the minority! There were about five kiwis on the trip and we very much created an alliance, but I went out of my way to get to know the different cliques and groups which meant whatever activity we were doing, I always had people to talk to and hang out with.
It’s also fascinating getting to know people who may have had a different background to you, all walks of life go on a Contiki and this can lead to some unlikely friendships.
As part of your Contiki tour you will get some included activities, but you will also be given the opportunity to opt-in to Free Time Add-On Experiences (FTA’s). These experiences are usually booked and paid for while you are on the tour and are specially curated activities and excursions that allow you to personalise your trip.
Usually at the beginning of your tour, the Trip Manager will go over the FTA’s that are available and get a count of how many people want to do them. I really rated doing the FTA’s as it meant when going to a new destination, I didn’t have to worry about making bookings to see attractions. I just had to show up and Contiki looked after the rest.
FTA’s range from adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving and bungee jumping to cultural immersions such as cooking classes and guided tours. On my tour, the FTA’s ranged from snorkeling and swimming in a cave in Ios, watching a cabaret show in the heart of Paris, to getting a guided tour of Ancient Pompeii and visiting the Coliseum.
Booking an FTA is a great way to enhance your travel experience, making your journey not just about the destinations, but also about the unforgettable moments in between.
Looking After Yourself
One last thing to remember about a Contiki is that it’s very much a marathon not a sprint. There’s going to be plenty of time to go out and have fun, but you don’t want to peak too early and feel sorry for yourself a couple of days in. You need to look after your body, make the most of the free daily breakfasts, and take any opportunity to drink water.
You need to look after yourself first and foremost, no one knows your body better than yourself. Take small breaks, there’s nothing wrong with taking an afternoon off to recharge (I learnt to love an afternoon nap).
When it comes to going out at night, don’t feel you have to go out EVERY night, catching up on some sleep means you will feel more charged up and ready to go for the next day’s sightseeing.
A lot of people on our tour would go hard the night before, but then be so tired the next day they would miss activities and even FTA’s they had already paid for. Be a bit strategic on what nights you might stay out a bit later, and what nights you decide to have some rest.
Another thing to think about is making sure you can get back to your accommodation safely. Not all places have Uber so if you need to order a taxi or have to walk a certain length, best to do it in a group to avoid getting split off.
If going on a Europe Contiki, something to think about is pickpocketing. Opportunists love to make the most of a naive tourist and I don’t want you to be one of those!
Don’t leave your phone or wallet just sitting in your pocket or have it somewhere easy to find in your backpack. Pickpocketers are very slick and will take things without you even noticing they’re doing it.
I would recommended having a cross-body bag (otherwise known as a fanny pack) that you wear on the front of you at all times. That way you have eyes on it and it’s less likely to be targeted by any ambitious thieves.
Going on a Contiki is very much a trip of a lifetime and it’s something all young kiwis should do at some point in their travels. Whether you decide to be like me and take on Europe, or explore the luscious South-East Asia, the bright lights of the USA or even the exotic South America, there’s a Contiki for everyone.
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10 Best Contiki Tours to Take in 2024
If you're a young adult between the ages of 18 and 35, these 2024 contiki tours were made for you..
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- Contiki specializes in affordable group tours for young adults to destinations around the world; most trips average between $1,000 and $3,000 per person.
- Contiki has been taking 18- to 35-year-olds on group tours since 1962 and offers a variety of trip styles.
- These are my picks for the best tours offered by Contiki in 2024.
One of the best things about group tours with Contiki is that you travel with people close to your age, so the group often bonds quickly. Another great thing is that most of the logistics are taken care of and you’re led by expert guides and trip managers who work hard to make each trip special.
The Best Contiki Tours to Take for 2024
Group tours for young adults with Contiki have all of the essentials included in the overall price, including internal trip travel, accommodations, trip managers, and activities. Here are my recommendations for the best Contiki tours in 2024, including vacations in Western Europe, Thailand, Egypt, and other popular destinations around the world.
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1. European Discovery with Contiki
If traveling around Europe has been on your bucket list, then the European Discovery tour is a great way to achieve that goal in 2024. Over 12 days, you and your travel companions will explore eight countries including England, Germany, Italy, and France. The trip starts in London, where you meet up with the group before hopping onto a ferry to Amsterdam where you’ll take a canal cruise and explore the winding streets.
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The tour continues into Germany for a guided walking tour through Munich before heading to Innsbruck and the Bavarian Alps. The latter part of the trip takes place in fairytale cities like Rome, where you’ll see the Trevi Fountain and take a tour of the best gelaterias in the city; and Paris, where the Moulin Rouge and the Eiffel Tower are waiting for you.
- Length: 12 days
- Starting price: $2,071
- Average group size: 38 people
- How to book: Book only through Contiki or TourRadar ,; or through a travel agent such as AAA
2. Egypt and the Nile
Dreaming of traveling through Egypt and along the Nile River? Then check out the Contiki’s 2024 Egypt tour , which is a fun way to be immersed in a different culture. The eight-day trip includes a three-night Nile River cruise, along with plenty of land-based adventures. The start of the journey takes you to one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World: The Great Pyramid of Giza, and a chance to see the Sphinx.
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The middle of the trip is where you’ll board a sailboat and take to the Nile River for three nights. The boat journey ends in Luxor, where you’ll be able to see the Avenue of the Sphinxes, along with the Valley of the Kings. The trip ends in Cairo, the perfect spot to wander ancient markets before saying goodbye to Egypt.
- Length: 8 days
- Starting price: $1,772
- Average group size: 40 people maximum
- How to book: Book online through Contiki or TourRadar ; or through a travel agent such as AAA
3. Northern Thai Highlights with Contiki
Many people head to Thailand for its stunning waters and beautiful temples, but there’s so more to the country than that. On the Northern Thai Highlights tour, you can experience a side of the country that most people never see. The tour starts in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, where you can wander the exciting street markets and enjoy the city’s bustling nightlife before heading off to Kanchanaburi, known for the River Kwai. Here, you’ll sleep overnight on a jungle raft and see Erawan Falls.
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The second half of the trip takes the group to Pat, a mountain town known for its nightlife. Here, you’ll also get to try your hand at the local martial arts, Muay Thai. Then on the way to Chiang Mai, you’ll stop at an elephant sanctuary to get up close to one of the resident pachyderms. The final highlight of the trip is a traditional Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai.
- Starting price: $1,143
- Average group size: 24 people
- How to book: Book online through Contiki , TourRadar , TravelStride ; or through a travel agent such as AAA
4. Austria Ski Vacation
Skiing the Austrian Alps is a dream for many snow bunnies, and on Contiki’s 2024 Austria Ski tour, that’s exactly what you’ll be doing. This group tour takes place in the heart of the Austrian Alps, in Hopfgarten im Brixental. When you’re not hitting the slopes, you can take a day trip to Salzburg to explore the charming city or even paraglide through the mountains.
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Other included activities are a Ski Safari, where a local guide takes you around the mountain to learn about the area; and a beer party at Bar Schöneck to warm up after a day out on the snow.
- Starting price: $468
- Average group size: Up to 53 people
- How to book: Book online through Contiki ; or through a travel agent such as AAA
5. Ultimate Inca Trail with Contiki
Machu Picchu is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and with the Ultimate Inca Trail tour, you’ll be able to see that and so much more. The six-day group tour starts in the beautiful town of Cusco, where you can wander on your own or take a walking tour of the town. On Day 2, the trek begins in the Lares Valley, where a guide will be on hand to help everyone and to educate the group about the people that live in the area.
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Day Three is a seven-hour hike that includes seeing wildlife and incredible views. Day Four has the group making it to the Lares Hot Springs before arriving at the Sacred Valley town of Ollantaytambo. Day Five is the big day: The group takes a train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, where a local guide will give the group a tour of the site before you head back to Cusco.
- Length: 6 days
- Starting price: $1,313
- Average group size: 10 people
- How to book: Book online through Contiki , TourRadar , or TourHub ; or through a travel agent such as AAA
6. Viva Costa Rica
For a trip to Central America that won’t break the bank, consider the 2024 Viva Costa Rica tour. The nine-day trip starts in San Jose and then heads to the Arenal volcano region. The rainforest area around the volcano is ideal for taking a hike to a waterfall, hopping into hot springs, or rappelling through canyons. The trip continues to Tamarindo, known for its surf and party culture. Here, you can choose to take a catamaran cruise, learn to surf, or just bask in the sun.
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The trip then takes travelers to Monteverde, where you’ll biplane through the forest and walk along hanging bridges. The final stop of the journey is Jaco, which is a gateway to many of Costa Rica’s national parks. Take a day trip to Manuel Antonio National Park to see coral reefs, beaches, and ancient rainforests.
- Length: 9 days
- Starting price: $1,898
- Average group size: Up to 30 people
7. Eternal India with Contiki
India is a country that’s filled with color, life, and plenty of historic places. And that’s exactly what travelers will find on the Eternal India tour. This 12-day trip starts in Delhi, where you can travel by rickshaw, visit the local street markets, and see some beautiful temples. The big day of the trip is actually Day Two, where you’ll visit the Taj Mahal all at your own pace.
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Other highlights of the trip include a tiger sunrise safari in Ranthambore, Amer Fort in Jaipur, the Hanging Gardens in Mumbai, and the beachside town of Goa. There are optional tours and activities as well, including taking a Bollywood dance class, a foodie tour of Mumbai street food, and cooking and dining with a local family in Jaipur.
- Starting price: $2,332
8. Japan in a Week
Contiki’s 2024 Japan in a Week tour allows travelers to see all of the highlights of Japan in short order. The eight-day tour visits three of the major hubs in Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. In Tokyo, travelers can see an ancient Buddhist temple, explore the shopping district of Nakamise Street, and even cross the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Then it’s off to Kyoto. (Bonus: You’ll spot Mount Fuji on the way.)
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In Kyoto, you can take a half-day trip to Nara to visit the Todaiji Temple and see miniature deer; and see the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is known for its winding paths of orange torii gates. The last stop on the trip is Osaka, where you can choose to visit Universal Studios or learn how to be a Samurai.
- Starting price: $1,835
- Average group size: 25 people
9. National Parks Road Trip with Contiki
Travelers looking for an amazing and outdoorsy trip where they won’t need a passport will enjoy the National Parks Road Trip . The 12-day trip takes you through five United States National Parks in under two weeks. The trip starts in Dallas before moving to Amarillo, Texas on Day One, where you’ll see a fun exhibit showcasing Cadillac cars. The tour then continues to Albuquerque, New Mexico, for a hot air balloon ride before hitting Moab for Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.
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Other National Parks included on this itinerary are Capitol Reef National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and Grand Canyon National Park. The trip ends with an evening in Las Vegas, where you can hit the strip or the buffet, before officially ending in Los Angeles.
- Starting price: $2,520
- Average group size: 30 people
10. Southern Africa Safari
An African safari is a trip of a lifetime for many travelers. Contiki’s Southern Africa Safari tour covers four countries in 21 days. The three-week trip takes guests through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia. Over the course of the trip, you’ll see the highlights of Cape Town and attempt to see the big five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo) in Kruger National Park. On Day Seven, the trip takes a detour to see the largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls.
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Other highlights of the trip include seeing a meerkat colony at the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, exploring the desert in Namib-Naukluft National Park, and kayaking at Pelican Point. Each destination offers a unique take on African wildlife, so be sure to listen to your guide because you never know what you may spot.
- Length: 21 days
- Starting price: $5,140
- How to book: Book online through Contiki or through a travel agent such as AAA
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Contiki tours review: the good and bad of traveling europe with contiki.
Is a Contiki Tour right for you?
Product Reviews
We receive a lot of questions from people asking me about our thoughts on joining tour groups in Europe — most notably Contiki Tours. For those of you who aren’t aware, Contiki is a well-known and very popular bus tour company that caters to students/youth travelers. Not surprisingly, based on their younger clientele, they have earned a reputation as being a booze-filled party tour.
We want to say upfront that we prefer traveling independently — after all The Savvy Backpacker is focused on independent travel. That said, we don’t have any problem with these kinds of tours. So, with that in mind, our goal for this article isn’t to talk you into or out of a Contiki Tour. Our goal is to give you the facts, both good and bad, so you can make an informed decision on whether a tour like this is right for you.
Quick Overview of Contiki Tours
Contiki is the most popular bus tour company for young travelers (18-35). They operate in Europe, Russia, Egypt, Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Asia — but most of the info in this guide will be focused on their European tours.
They host more than 150,000 travelers each year and they’ve been doing tours since the early 60s.
Multiple Tour Options
One nice thing about Contiki is that they offer a wide variety of tour options — ranging from week-long trips to multiple-month excursions. They also have tour options that visit just about every part of Europe so that’s really nice.
Their most popular tours are their “budget” tours (which basically means the accommodation consist of budget hotels and campsites). You can view all their European tours here .
The tour prices range from around $1000 for about a week to well over $6000 for multi-week trips. Their most popular tours will be around $2000. Visit this page to see all their prices .
Travel Styles
In the past, we’ve ragged on Contiki because they were traditionally seen as a party on wheels. Don’t get us wrong, we can totally see why people would be into that and we don’t have a problem with it… but not everyone is into that kind of travel.
But these days, while some of the tours still have that party atmosphere, Contiki now offers a lot more options to fit other travel styles — which we think was a great move.
Here are their main travel styles:
- High Energy
- Discovery Plus
- In-Depth Explorer
- Freestyle Camping
- Sailing and Cruising
- Winter and Ski
Click here to see all their travel styles
Accommodation
All the accommodation is provided by Contiki and is included in the price —so you never have to worry about finding a place to sleep (conversely, you have no say in where you stay). Each tour usually features multiple types of accommodation but there are basically three types of accommodation:
- Budget Hotels: They claim to only book “2-3 star” hotels but many have reported that some of the hotels were very “budget”.
- Hostels: Similar to budget hotels. You’ll be sharing a room — which is normal.
- Contiki Owned Campsites: Think summer camp with shared cabins —not tents. The company’s employees staff the site.
On average, the quality of the accommodation tends to be on par with that of a budget hostel. The type of accommodation differs in each city and some are nicer than others. Some places are not that great, but some are fairly nice (for budget standards).
Much like a hostel, expect to share a room with 2-4 other people. However, you can usually pay extra to have your own room.
Be aware that your accommodation might not be located in the city. Depending on the tour, a few of your hostels/campsites could be far outside the city (sometimes 30-60 minutes by train/taxi). These locations are often not on any public transportation routes, so you’ll have to fork over 40-50 euros for a taxi ride if you want to spend time in the city.
Contiki’s website does a pretty good job of telling you what to expect on each tour/destination so be sure to do some research.
Breakfast is provided every day and it usually consists of standard food you’d find for free at almost any hostel (milk, cereal, toast w/ jam, coffee, and tea). You will sometimes get lucky and have eggs or sausage.
Lunch is always up to you. A lot of times you eat at rest stops because you’re usually on the bus during lunchtime.
Dinner is provided about half the time. Most of the time the staff at the campsite cooks it and sometimes you have to help with some of the cooking and cleaning.
In some cities, there are optional “special meals” that are served at restaurants but they’re fairly expensive. Some have reported that the meal is delicious and some told me that it was mediocre at best — it depends on where you go. For a budget traveler, this extra fee is a lot of money and I know you can get a cheaper meal in any European city.
Travel Pace
The breakneck travel pace seems to be a complaint that a lot of people have. Contiki Tours aims to hit as many places as possible so you often end up barely scratching the surface of each destination. You’ll only spend a day or two in large cities (Paris, Rome, etc) and half days in smaller towns.
On the other hand, you do end up getting to see a lot (albeit briefly).
In many instances, you are dropped off in the center of town, given a map, and told to meet back at a specific location/time. If your accommodation is outside the city, the bus will take you back to the campsite/hotel at night, otherwise, you meet at the bus in the morning (6-8 am).
You will spend a lot of time on the bus — about 40% of the trip. Most people say that every second day is spent on the bus and most rides are 6-10 hours long. A lot of people spend their time on the bus sleeping off their hangovers or socializing. The bus stops every few hours at roadside convenience stores and gas stations.
Without a doubt, you’ll see a lot in a short amount of time, but things often tend to blend together when traveling at such a fast pace. Some people told me that they liked the fast pace because it gave them a good overview of where they want to visit again when they come back for their next European trip.
Note: Contiki does have some tours that travel at a bit slower of pace but their bread and butter tours are typically fast-paced.
Party Atmosphere
Contiki Tours have earned a reputation for being a party on wheels. I have heard from multiple sources that many of the tours quickly turn into drunken parties with lots of sex. This really isn’t too surprising — young people + hormones + plenty of alcohol + close quarters with the same people for long periods of time + interesting accents = hazy memories. It is basically a college party on steroids.
This isn’t necessarily a bad thing because a lot of people have tons of fun on Contiki Tours.
Because of the constant parties and accelerated travel pace, many people have told me that they have fuzzy memories of Europe. Some people have an absolute blast and just love this style of travel. Hell, we really enjoy letting loose and maybe having a few too many drinks, but doing that multiple times a week will really wear you down.
Of course, you don’t have to drink/get drunk but there is a good chance the people around you will.
The Contiki Traveler
All travelers have to be between 18-35, but the average age is about 20-25. Contiki Tours is an Australian company so there are a lot of Australians, but there are also plenty of Americans, Canadians, Kiwis, Brits, and Irish (you’ll probably get a few other nationalities in there too). It seems that there are generally more females than males and about half of the people are traveling alone.
A large majority of former Contiki travelers often talk fondly of all the cool people they met and how much fun they had with them. A lot of people form really close friendships with their fellow travelers. For good and bad, many people’s best memories come from the people they meet—not from the sights. But, to be fair, some of our best memories of traveling came from the people we’ve met in hostels, so we can’t see how this is any different.
Group Travel Frustrations
When there are 50 people in a group it is inevitable that someone will be constantly late—this is especially true in the morning when there are a bunch of hung-over travelers. Just be prepared to wait a lot.
You also run the risk of having a lame group. I have heard a few stories about travelers expecting a party only to find out that most people didn’t want to do anything. Or people could just not get along well and then you’re stuck with them for the duration of the trip.
Although, most people have very little conflict or frustrations stemming from group travel.
Tourist Traps
The tour guides are rumored to get kickbacks for bringing their guests to certain bars/shops/restaurants, so it is hard to always believe that the guide is showing you the best places to go.
For example, on some tours you are taken to an Italian leather shop as one of your destinations, but it is basically a glorified tourist gift shop (there are also silver, glass, diamond, and other shop “tours”). The people in the shop demonstrate their craft but then hit you with a big sales pitch. We’ve also heard stories about how the tour guides give travelers “city maps” but the maps really only highlight these “gift shops.”
We’ve also been warned that many of the “extra” excursions are extremely overpriced. It is usually best to book those on your own at a fraction of the cost. Unfortunately, there is a lot of pressure to purchase these extra tours because you can either go or be stuck at the campsite (which doesn’t have access to the city).
Tipping is highly encouraged by the staff. Each person gets their own envelope w/ their name on it and you’re supposed to put your tip in it. We don’t have a problem with tipping but some past guests thought this method seemed a bit forceful.
Reasons People Choose Contiki
Again, we’re not against these kinds of tours and we totally understand the benefits they provide. Below are some of the reasons people love Contiki Tours.
No Need To Plan
Some travelers simply don’t want to plan their trip and they would rather just let someone else take care of all that work. We think this is understandable, and we admit that travel planning can take a lot of time.
Planning can also be frustrating and honestly it can get overwhelming. We kind of like the planning part of the experience (obviously, we created this website) but we don’t fault anyone for just wanting to have a good time without having the headache of planning.
Many travelers think traveling around Europe is difficult, but using trains, planes, and other public transportation (especially in Europe) is usually pretty simple once you understand how the system works. But we totally see how it would seem intimidating — especially for someone who has no experience with public transportation. Nonetheless, a tour can be a good choice if you still don’t feel comfortable traveling independently.
I also think a lot of travelers get caught up in the fact they don’t speak the local language. Hell, we still get intimidated when we travel to a foreign country. Being in a tour group takes away a lot of this apprehension (although most Europeans speak English well, so we wouldn’t worry too much about it).
Solo Travelers
Many solo travelers choose tours because they feel that traveling alone is unsafe or lonely — we hear this a lot from female travelers. These concerns are completely understandable and we’ve had the same feelings ourselves.
That said, we’ve met plenty of solo female travelers but not everyone is up for this kind of experience. So, given a choice between not traveling and going on a tour, we’d always choose the tour.
So, if traveling alone is preventing you from traveling to Europe, then I think Contiki is an excellent option.
Instant Friends
Being surrounded by 50 other people means that you’ll never go lonely.
In fact, this built-in social network is one of the reasons we love hostels. And a Contiki tour is like a hostel on steroids. Plus, you don’t have to constantly reintroduce yourself to new people over and over again as you do in hostels.
And if you read past reviews, almost every person mentioned the friendships they made on their tour.
Past travelers seem to love their tour guides.
Always Something To Do
There will always be something going on every night. You have the option to do your own thing but there is always an option to party with the group.
Some people love Contiki Tours and you can find plenty of people who rave about them online. In fact, many of these people take multiple tours with them. On the other hand, you will also find many reviews from people that didn’t enjoy their trip as much as they would have liked.
From what I’ve found, most former travelers said that their tour was fun and they were not disappointed they took the tour… but one tour is probably enough. I don’t think this is necessarily a negative thing since these tours help “ease” people into their European experience and it shows how easy European travel can be.
Check out their European tours options to see what all they offer.
If you’re interested in hearing a tour guide’s firsthand account of leading one of these tours I suggest reading Rule No. 5: No Sex on the Bus: Confessions of a Tour Leader by Brian Thacker. It isn’t written about Contiki specifically but we imagine many of the themes apply to all youth-oriented tour groups. It is pretty funny and interesting to read about all the crazy stuff a bunch of drunken youths can get up to.
Not sure if a Contiki tour is for you? We suggest you visit the Contiki Website to get a better idea of their specific tours.
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- Day 4 Vlorë > Himarë > Porto Palermo Bay > Vlorë
- Day 5 Vlorë > Fishtë > Shkodër
- Day 6 Shkodër > Koman > Valbonë
- Day 7 Valbonë > Prizren > Tirana
- Day 8 Tirana
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What's Included
- Accommodation
- Additional Services
Where You'll Stay
Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center (or similar)
Hotel Partner (or similar)
Hotel Tradita (or similar)
Hotel Margjeka (or similar)
Operated by
Number of tours
18 to 35 years old
Response time
Response rate
Contiki has been running tours for over 50 years, all exclusively for travellers aged 18-35 years old. Their mission is to bring young travellers together to see the world, focusing on unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories. Contiki believes in real travel experiences, and they care...
Sustainability Initiatives
Reduce Carbon Emissions
Animal Welfare
Supporting Destinations
Sustainability Programs
Your Peace of Mind Options
Cancellation policy.
A transparent overview of applicable fees.
Customer Reviews
- Tour Operator Contiki 4.7
- Matt · 2nd September 2024 Amazing itinerary with an exceptional guide for this Discovery trip. Memories to last a life time! 👌🏼
- Jess · 1st September 2024 Tour was good. Enjoyed the sheepdog experience immensely. But the trip manager slept with people on the tour which... Show more
- Amie · 29th August 2024 What an amazing tour and what an amazing guide Ri is! She made the trip with her energy, enthusiasm and passion. I... Show more
Dates & Availability
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- Upcoming departures
- August 2025
- August 2026
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Good to Know
- Currencies L Lek Albania € Euro Kosovo
As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.
- These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
- Typhoid - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
- Hepatitis A - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
- Hepatitis B - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 2 months before travel.
- Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an infected area for Albania. Ideally 10 days before travel.
- Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 6 months before travel.
- Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
- Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
- For any tour departing before 23rd November 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 23rd November 2024, a minimum payment of €100 is required to confirm your booking with Contiki. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
- Some departure dates and prices may vary and Contiki will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
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- Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Unlocking Adventure: The Top 5 Best Contiki Tours for Every Traveler!
Posted on Last updated: October 13, 2023
Categories Tours
Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.
Is this year the time to get ticking off your bucket list destinations? An adventure with Contiki Tours could be just what you are looking for!
If you are between 18 and 35, Contiki offers out-of-this-world group tours that are great value, fun-packed, and a great place to meet like-minded fellow travelers. Wherever your wanderlust is calling you, Contiki has you covered. So what can you expect from the best Contiki Tours?
With sixty years in business, the Contiki team has the business of traveling down. Their travel program spans worldwide and covers the hottest travel destinations. Contiki’s vision is to provide accessible, affordable travel options for young people looking to get out there and explore the world.
Joining a trip with Contiki is more than just a holiday. Become part of the Contiki community, meet your travel goals, grow your confidence, forge lifelong friends, and have a meaningful, fun travel experience. Contiki offers the perfect place to make global connections with both your travel mates and local communities you meet en route.
All Contiki trips come complete with an expert Trip Manager who is essential for creating world-class adventures for all Contiki guests. Using their in-depth knowledge of the destination. They will give you all the info you need to dive in and make the most of every place you visit. They set the vibe for a fun, exciting journey, help you orientate to new cities, and provide any assistance you need while on the road.
Operating an inclusive policy, Contiki offers a fun experience regardless of your personality, previous travel experience, or individual differences. There is something for everyone. Contiki values its diverse and vibrant community, and your trip manager is skilled at helping new groups bond and break the ice.
Are you thinking of traveling solo? Contiki could be the perfect option. Around sixty percent of travelers who join a Contiki tour do so solo. Embrace the freedom of solo travel and combine it with the chance to meet a whole group of new friends. Contiki offers the right mix of scheduled activities and space to get out and explore how you want.
In addition to your trip manager, transport between destinations is included, and a professional, safe driver is responsible for getting the crew from A to B. Take the stress out of the journey with all the logistics taken care of so you can concentrate on the good stuff.
Significant expenses are all included in the trip price. Transport, accommodation, and a range of activities are all-inclusive, making Contiki trips easier to budget, so you don’t need to stress about running out of money.
Carefully curated accommodation is provided for every night of the trip. Accommodation choices vary depending on the trip, but rest assured all accommodations will meet the Contiki standards from centrally located city hostels, glamping or camping experiences, hotels, and Contiki special stays. Contiki only works with the best in the business. They know what makes a great stay, and their accommodation choices reflect this.
Contiki endeavors to make every trip a memorable experience. With a massive range of tours available, you can choose a tour that suits your needs and budget. If you travel with friends, you can request to stay in the same room as your mates. If you travel solo and want a little more privacy, you can upgrade to a private room. Whatever the experience you are looking for, Contiki can make it happen.
With years in the business, Contiki knows how to provide the ultimate travel experience, from the best places to visit, to uncovering hidden gems, unique experiences, the best parties, restaurants, cultural experiences, and active adventures. Whatever you are into, Contiki has you covered with mind-expanding experiences.
As the world leader in youth travel, Contiki’s mission statement is Make Travel Matter. Travel has a profound impact on the communities, the places, and the communities we visit. By making sustainability and responsible travel the cornerstone of their vision, Contiki helps facilitate young travelers to leave a positive impact on the places they visit.
Make Travel Matter Experiences visit innovative projects which support local people, the natural environment, and wildlife. You may visit local community projects, meet local people and artisans, learn more about indigenous cultures, or visit innovative projects which benefit the natural environment and wildlife. These amazing experiences help educate travelers about global issues and allow a deeper connection to the destinations they visit.
Contiki has undertaken a sustainability pledge and a 4-point climate action pledge. They have implemented a carbon calculator to determine how much carbon each trip produces and have invested in carbon offsetting to reduce the impact of their tours. In addition, they are committed to lowering emissions on their trips wherever possible. They have invested in their fleet of coaches, which are both modern and fuel efficient. Coach travel offers a more sustainable option than the traditional road trip.
If you take a trip with Contiki, you can be assured they are doing everything possible to make the trip as sustainable as possible and travel responsibly.
Contiki provides life-affirming travel for young adventurous people looking to discover what the wider world offers. So if you are ready to book an unforgettable adventure, stop dreaming and make those plans a reality. Pick your destination and get involved.
Whatever your adventure style, vibes, or wherever you want to go, Contiki has it covered. Read on to find out the best Contiki tours which we have sorted for you to provide the ultimate travel inspiration.
Read on for some ultimate travel inspiration for your next Contiki adventure.
Page Contents
Eternal India
Food and wine in a french chateau, the explorer with (inca trail trek), sun and steam ( new zealand ), beaches and reefs (australia), the powder rush.
Are you ready to sharpen your sense of adventure with an action-packed twelve-day tour of India?
Contiki offers an epic tour that takes in the multi-sensory extravaganza that is the vast, frenetic, and inspiring country of India, traveling through the Golden Triangle onwards to Mumbai and the exotic shores of Goa.
This trip is perfect for those wanting to get out and explore India safely, socially, and stress-free. With your expert trip manager, driver, and local guides, this trip will be a breeze.
The group will embark from the capital of Dehli in all its chaotic glory.
Under the wing of your local guide, explore the sights and sounds of the historic district of Old Dehli, with its abundance of everything from bicycles, people, and rickshaws to street vendors selling all manner of wares. Marvel at the ornate architecture and rich, warm colors of the red sandstone buildings before immersing yourself in Dehli’s street food scene.
Cross over the Yamuna River into the state of Uttar Pradesh towards the city of Agra to make some serious strides on your bucket list with visits to the formidable Red Fort of Agra and the iconic Taj Mahal with its glittering white marble and luscious courtyards, gardens, and spectacular water pool and fountains.
Hit up the expansive Ranthambore National Park with the opportunity to add on a sunrise safari to spot some of the park’s incredible wildlife. The trip includes visiting the Dhonk craft center, which provides employment and education opportunities for local people and micro-financing services. Connect with local people here and learn more about their lives with this included Contiki Travel Matters Experience.
Let loose in Jaipur, where you have some free time to explore. Your group leader is full of expert recommendations, so grab your new travel crew and head out to savor the visual delights of this city with its distinctive pink-hued buildings. Make a pit stop at Udaipur for a guided city tour, taking in the stunningly beautiful City Palace complex on Lake Pichola’s banks and the ornate Jagdish temple.
Next, head to the mega-city of Mumbai with its cacophony of noises. Watch as skyscrapers rise from it’s sprawling bodies and flotillas of boats sail the busy shores of the Arabian Sea. A local guide will help you experience the rush of this metropolis. Then it’s on to the beaches of Goa to embrace the sounds of the waves. Your trip ends here, and it is the perfect spot for a farewell party to Goa’s legendary nightlife.
With transport and accommodation covered, Eternal India provides an accessible and worry-free way to experience India’s incredible history and culture . Immerse yourself in the amazing sights and sounds, from ornate temples to the city metropolises, lush countryside to beachside shores. India has it all, and Contiki can’t wait to take you there.
- Hotel accommodation
- Comfortable travel on a private coach
- Services of an expert trip manager and friendly, knowledgeable guides
- 11 breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner
- Orientation and sightseeing tours with local guides in Dehli, Udaipur, and Mumbai
- Entry to the Taj Mahal and the Agra Red Fort
- Visit the Dhonk Craft Centre community project in Ranthambore
- Internal flight to Goa
Treat yourself to a gourmet French chateau experience.
Tease your palette, and meet new friends with an epic four days living in a 16th-century chateau complete with a pool, in-house chef, and bar. Your travel group will explore the delights of the Beaujolais wine region, which has an abundance of vineyards and a rich culinary tradition that highlights fresh, seasonal produce.
A complimentary transfer will whisk you from the station of Villefranche sur Saone to your stunning accommodation. Settle into your well-appointed rooms and explore the sprawling grounds of this 16th-century chateau, a fantastic example of the architecture of the French Renaissance.
Savor a locally produced wine and cheese tasting before heading for a three-course welcome dinner in a picturesque local village. Food on, drinks on!
The next day heads out for a day trip to the gastronomical capital of France , Lyons. Take a tour of the city’s culinary highlights with a local expert. Your guide ensures you will hit the best spots and taste this region’s best food and wine.
Sip spectacular wines and stop by some of the Bouchons Lyonaise, traditional, rustic restaurants that specialize in serving regional dishes. Uncover the city’s authentic culinary heritage before returning to a fun dinner at the Chateau, making the most of your beautiful accommodation.
Hit up a winery tour in the Beaujolais Wine Region. Visit three wineries and sample wines, meet local winemakers, and learn more about viticulture. Enjoy an included winery lunch with paired wines as you live the good life in France.
Relax at the chateau as the in-house chefs prepare a farewell dinner of traditional French fare for the group to round out your foodie adventure in style. Expect plenty of laughs, delicious food, and flowing drinks. Your trip ends the next day, but there is still time for a tasty breakfast or dip in the pool.
This lavish tasting experience will leave your buttons straining as you enjoy an introduction to this region’s exquisite food and wine. With accommodation and gourmet tasting experiences included, this upmarket adventure is excellent value.
- Three nights’ accommodation in Chateau De Cruix.
- Complimentary transfer from the station of Villefranche sur Saone
- Local wine and cheese tasting
- Moveable Feast Walking Tour of Lyons
- Three Breakfasts in the Chateau
- Winery visits and included lunch in the Beaujolais Wine Region
- Three Luxurious French Dinners
- Small Group Size for an intimate experience
- A Few Extra Inches on the Waistline
Embark on a journey of exploration in Peru , Argentina , and Brazil . This eighteen-day adventure lets you experience some of South America’s finest destinations, from the wonders of the Matcha Pichu to the dynamic capital of Buenos Aires and the flamboyant streets of Rio de Janeiro.
Soak in the complex cultures of South America, the intricate stonework of the ancient Incan civilization, and the breathtaking beauty of the densely-forested, high-altitude hills of the longest continental mountain range in the world, the Andes.
This trip is perfect for those wanting an in-depth exploration of this awe-inspiring region.
Begin your adventure at 11,000 feet in the city of Cusco, the historic capital of the Incan empire, surrounded by the sacred Andean peaks of Ausangate, Salkantay, and Veronica and the formidable ruins of the mighty Incan Empire.
With a local guide, you will visit the ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo to start uncovering the legacy of the Incan people and their agricultural and engineering prowess. Those who choose the one-day Inca trek can follow some of the original Inca trails, traversing mountain paths into the clouds and taking in views of the iconic peak of Huayna Picchu and the valleys below.
Those who choose not to take the Inca trail trek will catch a train to Aguas Calientes, a gateway city to Machu Picchu; nestled between imposing mountains and lush rainforest, the town is only accessible via train or foot.
This location offers an early start for one of the trips, highlighting a guided tour of Machu Picchu . Located high amongst the Vilcabamba mountain range, wonder at the shifting shapes of the mist and clouds as they shroud these ancient structures. This spectacular architectural complex was abandoned in the 16th century.
Take a rest day in Cusco with some free time. Explore with new friends, or choose one of the optional extra excursions available. Tomorrow your journey takes you airborne to the heart of the Amazon.
Reaching Puerto Maldonado is an adventure in itself as your plane cuts through the mountains before descending into Peru’s Amazon basin. Then you will voyage by boat to a spectacular jungle lodge deep in the pristine rainforest of the Amazon.
From your comfortable lodge accommodation, smash your bucket list with a two-night stay in the jungle. Take a hike to a canopy tower to take in the incredible biodiversity of this verdant paradise, kick back and relax in your bungalow as the rich audioscape of gushing water, the howl of monkeys, calls of birds, and the patter of rain wash over you. The next day enjoy an unforgettable guided canoe trip down the mighty waters of the Amazon.
Catch an internal flight to the city of Lima. Spend a free evening with your new travel mates in Peru’s capital. Experience the city come alive as night settles, meander through the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, stroll past the illuminated facade of the cathedral of Lima, follow the boardwalk along the cliffs for a spectacular view of the cities skyline, or visit the lively neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco.
On to Buenos Aires next for an epic four-night stay in this energetic Latin-American destination. Launch straight into the good times with a hearty dinner out. Get ready to experience the fire of the Argentinian tango dancers in a wild night of romance and dancing.
The city is yours to explore. With the help of an expert local guide, get under the skin of this diverse metropolis. Follow insider tips and craft your adventure on the tree-lined streets, party until dawn breaks or join the optional extra excursions.
Suppose this incredible city destination wasn’t enough for you. In that case, it is onto Brazil to experience the natural wonders of the unbelievable Iguassa National Park, home to one of the world’s most jaw-droppingly beautiful collections of waterfalls. Surrounded by tropical rainforest, this semi-circle-shaped waterfall contains multiple cascades creating a dazzling visual display.
Finnish this adventure of a lifetime, with a multi-day stop in Rio De Janeiro with beachside accommodation. Get ready for the time of your life.
Check out the famous sunsets of Rio, its vibrant city beaches, and unbeatable nightlife. With an orientation tour to get your bearings, there is plenty of free time to soak in the carnival atmosphere.
These last days pack a punch with a Contiki Make Travel Matter guided tour through the favelas and an epic boat cruise in Guanabara Bay, taking in the stunning waterside view of the city’s iconic landmarks. Toast your mates, toast the experience, toast yourself! This is you living your best life.
Contiki makes the journey easy with a stress-free, safe, in-depth travel itinerary. With an expert trip manager and local guides, a driving team, accommodation, and amazing included activities, this truly is a life-changing travel experience.
- Expert trip manager, driving team, and local guides
- 13 nights of hotel accommodation and 4 nights of hostel accommodation (including a 2-night stay in the Amazon)
- 17 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners
- Exploration of the Sacred Valley (Urubamba), including the Pisac and Ollantaytambo Ruins
- Visit Machu Picchu with a guided tour and entry.
- Flight through mountain terrain and descending into the Amazon Basin to Puerto Maldonado
- Orientation tour of Puerto Maldonado, Buenos Aires and Rio De Janerio
- Amazon jungle canopy Hike and guided canoe ride
- Flight to Lima
- Flight to Buenos Aires and tango and dinner experience
- Flights to Iguassu, exploration of Iguassu National Park
- A Contiki Make Travel Matter Experience – Guided Favela Tour
- Visit Christ the Redeemer Statue
- Guanbara Bay Boat Cruise
- A full Instagram feed
Is New Zealand on your mind this year? Contiki offers an incredible North Island mini-break.
Make life easy and join in on this sublime roadie that heads up to the sunny shores of Paihia in the upper Northland, then onto the geothermal delights of buzzing Rotorua.
This social tour has a maximum group size of 45 and is the perfect place to meet new friends and travel companions. A group tour is an excellent way to make the most of your time in New Zealand and shake up your social life while getting out there and trying new experiences.
Travel in comfort on a spacious private coach. Your expert trip manager is a fellow New Zealand enthusiast with in-depth knowledge of the best activities and scenic spots. In short, they have your back with on-the-road support!
Meet your group in Auckland before heading toward Paihia. Take in the views as you cruise the open road. There is a scheduled pit stop in Whangarei. Stroll around the marina, with plenty of cafes and restaurants overlooking the waterfront. It is the perfect place for a leisurely lunch. The city has a vibrant arts scene, and culture vultures will enjoy visiting the Huderwassert art center.
On arrival in Paihia, the group will take a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to learn more about the history and culture of New Zealand’s indigenous people. After a busy day, tuck into New Zealand’s classic fish and chips overlooking the idyllic Bay of Islands. A free day in Paihia lets you explore the spectacular coastal beauty of this small town. There are plenty of optional extras to try if you want, or kick back and do your own thing.
Overnight in Auckland before hitting up the bright lights of Rotorua. Here you will meet New Zealand’s national bird, the Kiwi, in a Contiki Make Travel Matter visit to New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery. The evening sees you experience a traditional hangi dinner and Maori cultural experience.
You have a free day to explore Rotorua , visit some of the town’s geothermal features, or get involved in some adventure sports. Your trip leader can hook you up with a raft of optional activities. The tour heads back to Auckland for your departure point.
With included transport, cultural activities, accommodation, and a whole heap of fun, this tour offers a stress-free way to experience some of the North Islands’ premium locations and activities with a shorter New Zealand break.
- 4 nights of hotel accommodation and one night in a hostel
- Private coach travel and professional driver
- 5 breakfasts, 2 dinners
- Visit the Huderwassert arts center.
- Guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty grounds
- Fish and chip dinner in Pahia
- Visit the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery
- Maori Cultural Experience and Traditional Hangi Dinner
- Visit Auckland, Whangarei, Pahia, Rotorua
This incredible tour offers your ultimate east coast Australian Adventure .
Join your trip manager and travel crew for this epic adventure. With a maximum group size of 30, this trip offers the perfect blend of social and intimate. Prepare to make some serious inroads on your Aussie bucket list as you blast along the Pacific coast from Sydney to Cairns.
Your adventure takes in the best of the east coast and is jam-packed with visits to stunning tropical islands. This one is all about sun, sea, sand, and fun.
Send an incredible three nights in Australia’s cosmopolitan capital Sydney. Kick off with a day trip to the spectacular blue mountains, with their dramatic sandstone cliffs and shrouds of blue-tinted mist. Next day enjoy an orientation tour of Sydney with your group leader, including the Opera House and Bondi Beach.
Hop on a plane for the laid-back shores of Byron Bay. Embrace surfer life with an included surf lesson. Be warned. You might catch the surfing bug! With a two-night stay in Byron, you have plenty of time to get acquainted with the town’s bohemian vibes, luscious natural surroundings, and thriving art and music scene.
Hightail it to your next amazing destination with a two-night stay in a stunning eco-camp in the unique Noosa Everglades. Soak in the surroundings with its dense vegetation and lush wetland ecosystems. Later experienced a Contiki Make Travel Matter experience with a visit to an 80-acre sustainable farm.
A day trip to Fraser Island guarantees unforgettable memories. Head out early with the team to experience paradise, from its pure white sand beaches to the coastal dune system, abundant wildlife, marine life, and verdant rainforest. Blast down the longest sand highway in the world and dip in Lake Mackenzie’s crystal-clear waters. There is incredible wildlife to see here. Prepare to be blown away but its rugged, wild, and isolated beauty.
Things get pretty tropical where you are going next, with a base in one of Australia’s premier holiday destinations, Airlie Beach. Located in the heart of the Whitsundays, it is the perfect jumping-off spot for a day trip to the jaw-droppingly beautiful region, surrounded by the coral sea, home to the Great Barrier Reef. This is the place for exploring this extensive coral ecosystem, its spectacular array of marine life, and crystal clear turquoise waters.
Next up is a two-night stay on Magnetic Island, home to many Australian wildlife, from koalas to wallabies and possums. Head over by ferry before enjoying a hike to watch the spectacular sunset, with unobstructed views across the coral sea; the sunsets here are literally to die for. Next morning experience a uniquely Aussie breakfast experience with a slap-up feed at Selina Koala Village set amongst native trees. A wildlife ranger will introduce you to some of the residences of the onsite wildlife sanctuary.
The last destination on the itinerary is Cairns. Get acquainted with traditional bush cuisine with an incredible dining experience hosted by a local chef who demonstrates the uses of native ingredients before enjoying a traditional dinner using the native game.
Join an expert guide for a guided tour of the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest and most diverse in the world. As part of this Make Travel Matter experience meet with the local Kuku Yalanji people and learn more about the history and culture of the Aboriginal people. Next, head over to the Janbal gallery to meet with an Aboriginal artist to explore the artistic expression of Dreamtime and try your hand at creating your own masterpiece. Spend your last day in Cairns taking in the sights or join an optional extra Great Barrier Reef cruise.
This incredible adventure takes in the breadth of Australia’s stunning East Coast for an epic journey of beaches, wildlife, and stunning tropical destinations.
- 13 nights in hostels, 2 nights in an eco-camp
- 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners
- Expert trip manager, driver and local guides
- Day trip to the Blue Mountains
- Guided tour of Sydney, including Bondi Beach and the Opera House.
- Flight to Byron Bay and a surf lesson
- Fraser Island Day Trip
- Flight Brisbane to Airlie Beach
- Day trip to the Whitsundays
- Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef.
- Ferry to Magnetic Island
- Magnetic Island Sunset Hike and champagne
- Breakfast with koalas on Magnetic Island
- Train to Cairns
- Make Travel Matter bush tucker dinner experience
- Guided tour of the Daintree Rainforest
- Immersive Make Travel Matter Aboriginal Art Class
Are you craving fresh powder? Dreaming of hitting the Canadian slopes for some world-class skiing and snowboarding?
Contiki’s Powder Rush Tour offers the ultimate Canadian Ski adventure on this 9-day tour for snow lovers. Join a maximum group of 52 other powder hounds for your best winter holiday yet.
This trip is perfect for meeting new slope buddies, sharing snow stories, and experiencing Canada’s stunning natural beauty. Your expert trip manager will set the vibes and get the excitement going, and your expert driver will handle the logistics.
Begin this epic adventure in the pumping city of Vancouver, where snow-capped mountains meet the shores of the Pacific.
Jump aboard the comfortable Contiki coach to trace the coastline on the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway. Keep your eyes open because the scenery is out of this world, with epic coastal views, rugged snowcapped mountains, the winding Squamish River, and lush forested hillsides.
With anticipation kicking in, arrive at the legendary Whistler, home to the mighty Coast Mountain range, bucket loads of snow, and an electric apres-scene. Spend a three-night stay in North America’s largest ski resort. With varied skiing terrain and some of the best backcountry in Canada, Whistler has something for everyone. Contiki has local connections and can hook you up with great deals on lessons.
You might be sad to leave Whistler’s stunning slopes but fear not; your travel crew is headed to the magnificent Banff National Park. Jump on board a flight to Calgary before a short drive takes you to Banff.
This place is outdoor magic in all its glory, set against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains. With its timeless natural beauty, the park is one of the biggest in Canada and home to next-level skiing and snowboard terrain.
With three ski resorts in the park, you are spoilt for choice. Banff Mount Norquay is located minutes from Banff town. It has approximately 60 runs, a terrain park, and also offers night skiing. Lake Louise is Bannff’s most extensive area and has several terrain parks, good access to incredible back-country skiing, and amazing views of the Rocky Mountains and Lake Louise.
Sunshine Village spreads across three mountains, has expansive views and access to the continental divide, and is located at an incredibly high altitude, benefiting from excellent snow conditions. The choice is yours!
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there is a wide range of activities in the national park, from hiking to dog sledding, glacier hiking, and canyoning. Your trip manager will help you out with any advice you need. Exhausted from all the activity? Check out the natural hot springs or get out and enjoy the town’s lively apres-ski scene.
When packing up your gear and waving goodbye to new friends, transport is provided to Calgary for your departure point.
This tour offers an incredible way to visit two of Canada’s premium winter destinations, meet new friends, ski and snowboard to your heart’s content, and experience jaw-dropping mountain scenery.
- Expert trip manager and driver
- Eight breakfasts
- Three-night accommodation and stay at Whistler Ski Resort
- Flight to Calgary
- Four Nights Accommodation and stay at Banff National Park
- Departure Point in Calgary
12 Honest Reviews To Help You Decide If Contiki Trips Are Worth It
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America's Deadliest Lake Is Also One Of Its Most Beautiful
This cute colorado town is the perfect alternative to telluride, 7 small towns with the lowest cost of living in america in 2024.
Traveling up and down a foreign continent in a matter of weeks surrounded by like-minded adventurers sounds like a pretty good deal. Well, at least, it would if we weren't in the midst of a global pandemic.
That said, in better times, young people drawn to Contiki book trips because they feel like they’d be fools to pass something like that up. When it comes to the execution of the concept though, tours are bound to show some variation. That variation can come in the form of an upward swing, but things can also fall quite low.
We’ll take a look at the highlights of an Internet’s worth of Contiki reviews covering all the pros and cons. These former customers have taken tours through China, Europe, and every other place where Contiki provides service. With this information, the question of to Contiki or not to Contiki can be easily answered.
12 Consider It A World Sampler Platter
"It's a good method of traveling to give you an idea where you want to visit next.”
New travelers get a taste of several countries in a short period of time, according to this Reddit user. When they’re ready to go back for seconds, they have the knowledge to make it happen.
11 Kickbacks Determine Included Activities Instead Of Quality
Travelers who have been on a Contiki tour suspect that trip managers are paid to bring their groups to certain locations, according to Fodor’s Travel. Key tourist attractions like the Louvre are passed up in favor of a leather shoemaking course designed to get tourists to shell out more cash.
10 Big Groups Make Solo Travelers Feel Safe
There’s no getting lost in the crowd when the group you’re traveling with is large enough to be the crowd. Contiki estimates its group sizes to be somewhere between 35 to 52 people, according to its FAQ. Wandering into dangerous situations is much less likely when surrounded by 50 new friends.
9 Don't Count On Enjoying The Included Meals
Costs have to be cut somewhere to keep things affordable for Contiki’s target audience. That’s why most TourRadar reviewers report receiving bad food in small portions, particularly at breakfast. Travelers are better off wandering into the city on their own if they want to find authentic cuisine.
8 Make Friends For Life
Many Yelp reviewers are still in contact with people they met during their Contiki tour. The group becomes a makeshift family. Participants room together, party together, and book it down foreign streets to catch the bus together. It’s a unique experience that bonds groups at a rapid rate.
7 Trip Managers Make Or Break The Experience
The majority of Yelp reviewers who left positive feedback thanked their trip managers for making their experience so memorable with their knowledge and kindness. Though one-star reviews are very much in the minority, they often hinged on a single complaint: an awful trip manager ruined the excursion.
6 The Group Is Always On The Move
The experience is exhausting. Participants wake up at daybreak only to crawl back into bed late at the night, according to Stride Travel . Some reviewers complained about the frequent bus rides, but other than being a necessary part of travel, they also seem like the optimal time to catch up on sleep.
5 Guests Pressured Into Paying For Optional Activities
"You have the 'option' [to] pay to enter the museum or wait outside… for an hour and a half.”
Participants who cave under pressure when their budget is questioned will end up spending a lot more money than they planned to if this Fodor’s Travel r eview checks out.
Related: 10 European Cities Perfect For Budget-Savvy Travelers
4 Visit Several Countries And Experience None Of Them
"If you want to cross countries off your list without really experiencing them - this is the trip for you.”
Contiki’s jam-packed itineraries leave Redditors skeptical because it’s impossible to immerse oneself in a country’s culture in under a day. Many accuse the company of valuing quantity over quality.
3 The Party Tour Reputation Checks Out
Anyone just looking to have a good time will get exactly what they want with a Contiki tour, according to Yelp . There’s always someone game to try out a new bar or spend the evening seeking out hidden adventures. Timid travelers will find themselves doing things they never could’ve imagined.
Related: 10 Helpful Tips For Introvert Travelers
2 Contiki Is Only For the Young
We don’t mean that guests of a certain age would feel unwelcome, but Contiki explicitly states that travelers must be between 18 and 35 to book. One Yelp reviewer expressed serious dismay over this fact. Though she had enjoyed several tours before, her age now prohibits her from returning.
Related: 10 Adult-Friendly Party Cities For Living It Up This Summer
1 Take It Easy While The Professionals Plan
TourRadar reviewers appreciated not having to worry about organizing all of the nitty-gritty details that make traveling so stressful. The company handles the vetting of all activities and hotels. Participants are only responsible for making it back to the bus on time if they decide to wander off.
Next: Let’s Weigh The Pros And Cons Of Traveling To Europe In The Summer
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What is Contiki?
Contiki are the world leaders in organized youth travel. We’ve been providing amazing travel experiences for young travellers, from 18-35 years old, since 1962. Imagine how good you would be at something if you had been doing it for more than 60 years?
Everything about Contiki is deeply rooted in our two values ‘Make Every Moment Count’ and ‘We’re About People’. We don’t just talk, we walk the walk and live by our brand philosophy of ‘ Travel.Together. ’ which means to travel with one another, with the destinations we visit, the people and cultures we enjoy and the environment.
You’ve never experienced travel like this.
Why only 18-35?
Focusing on 18-35 year olds allows us to tailor a dramatically more powerful travel experience and an itinerary so fun it feels like all of your best Friday nights combined.
Tailoring to select ages brings together like minded, likeable people, and allows us to use Social Travel planning to build great groups of people so fast you’ll wonder if you’ve been friends forever.
What destinations can I go to with Contiki?
A sunrise, shoreline or bright light for every whim. We are proud to offer over 200 global trips, intelligently designed for a seamless and simple social travel experience. Visit our search page to discover your perfect travel destination.
How does it work?
We’re reinventing hassle free travel. Whether you are a solo traveller or group you can be rest assured that there has been tonnes of planning behind every trip.
Booking with Contiki means you are saying yes to a smile inducing trip where the typically stressful elements just seem to magically happen.
No one does trips like Contiki, essential accommodation, transport, reservations and so much more is all taken care of. You can multiply the magic with trip add ons and numerous customisations for your free time.
Every single Contiki social travel trip is managed by one of our expert Trip Managers, who are there to provide hands-on support and ensure your trip runs smoothly whilst you stay in the moment.
From 2022 your good time will be good for the planet as all Contiki trips are carbon natural. Find out more here.
How many other travellers are on each trip?
Group sizes are completely dependent on where and how you choose to travel with Contiki.
In Europe and in most of North America and New Zealand, group sizes can range between 24 – 53 awesome travellers.
In regions like Asia, Australia, Africa and Latin America, and on some North America and New Zealand trips, our group sizes are considerably smaller – as low as 12 or up to 30 travellers max.
Detour trips offer a different type of experience and max out at 16 people led by a local host.
Wondering what is so great about travelling together? Check out the Contiki Social travel page.
Each group is administered according to our strict Covid policies which can be viewed here.
Can I book online?
You certainly can! All of our trips are available to book online, just select your preferred travel date(s) and away you go. You can also book over the phone if you'd prefer.
What’s included?
All essential trip elements have been catered to ensure a great time, with great people in great places. But you mean more specifically right?
Your accommodation, essential trip transport, and a good handful of meals are included in the cost of your Contiki trip (on most trips we offer breakfast every day, plus a hand-picked selection of authentic and tasty meals).
To fill your days and Insta feeds we have Included Experiences, which are basically the sights and activities we think you just can’t afford to miss. Of course you also get our expert and highly trained team of Contiki staff to support throughout.
A day by day breakdown of inclusions and Free Time Add-Ons are available on the trip specific pages.
We always try to accommodate special requests such as birthdays, proposals etc. Please chat to our team and we can explore how we may support the request.
What’s not included?
Contiki social travel trips have a large degree of flexibility built into them to enable you to truly own your experience. This means that some trip elements are not included in the initial cost and may require additional budgeting.
Flights to and from your starting and ending points are not included in the cost of your trip. These can be added on during the booking process either online or via our contact center or booked independently by you.
Each trip contains the right amount of free time for you to explore or indulge your travel desires. We offer Free Time Add-Ons, which are additional experiences that are not included in the overall price. These add ons are highlighted on the specific trip page. Your Trip Manager will highlight these to you and organise their booking on trip. Exceptions may apply where pre booking is required but this will be made known to you in your pre departure information.
A number of meal times are left open for you to explore a region and its foodie offerings in greater detail, so budgeting for your taste in non-catered meals is important.
Travel insurance and visas are also not included in the cost of your trip, and should be booked separately.
What are Contiki's sustainability credentials?
Travel comes with responsibilities. That’s why we’re determined to travel sustainably and consciously, and that’s why we’re willing to take a stand on issues closest to our hearts. Find out more details here . With the help of our four-point Climate Action Plan, we're now on a journey to Net Zero - committing to carbon reductions and evolving to support the transition to a low-carbon future. Find out more details here .
Do I need to purchase travel insurance for this trip?
Yes! It’s a requirement of traveling with Contiki that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses, personal liability & loss of personal property and Covid related expenses before you travel with us. It’s also super important to check that your insurance covers all of the activities you’ll be trying out, particularly any adventure activities (for all you adrenaline junkies). For more information check out our full travel insurance FAQs.
Can I stay in my destination a few days before/after the trip starts/ends? And can Contiki help me arrange this?
Yes and yes! You can add pre- and post-trip accommodation to your booking in one of three ways:
When booking your trip online
In the 'My Travel Portal' after you've made your booking
By calling us any time on 0808 281 1120
In certain cities, you may even be able to secure a preferential rate for you pre- or post-trip accommodation.
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The one that takes you from ancient shrines to blazing neon lights, catching views of the Tokyo Tower, Kyoto and other hidden gems on an immersive Japan tour. Secure 2025's big trip today and get up to 25%* off, plus plenty of time to pay in full. The one that gives you Greece's biggest and best islands, exclusively for 18-22s.
Book a Europe tour with Contiki and discover sizzling beaches, buzzing cities & more with 18-35 year olds. Don't miss out! Book now, pay later - interest free. ... Loved my trip, was so well organised and it such an easy and fun way to travel! Definitely recommend. - Sarah Dickson, European Encounter. READ ALL REVIEWS. Book with confidence ...
Travel to USA with Contiki. A USA tour offers such diversity - of landscape, culture and unforgettable experiences too. A journey from the golden beaches of the Pacific coast to the salty breezes of New England will show you towering forests, arid deserts, rugged mountains, flat prairies and incredible cities.
Contiki is a tour company created for 18-35's who want to travel the world and live by the Contiki slogan #NOREGRETS. They do a pretty good job of following up with their slogan on trips that are pretty much dream itineraries for travellers who want to see as much as possible with limited time. Contiki offers tours for destinations around the ...
It can be absolutely mind-boggling to see all of the trip options on their website (there are so many!), so let me break down the key pointers on Contiki's travel styles you need to know next. Contiki Travel Styles. Contiki operates over 300+ unique tours across 6 continents ranging from $200 to $10,000 in price.
Plan your Contiki trip with My Travel Portal, featuring trip itineraries, eDocs, and more for a seamless travel experience.
Contiki is a global tour company that caters to 18 to 35-year-olds, offering over 350 different tours in over 75 countries in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, North America, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. [1] It is a subsidiary of The Travel Corporation.Its tours historically had a reputation for partying; [2] [3] however, it also operates wellness trips culturally immersive ...
Contiki provides travel tours for young adults. The tour company was incorporated in the mid-1960s after a group of friends posted a flyer on a noticeboard advertising space on their 12-seater minibus to travel around Europe. To this day, group travel is still immensely popular, as you not only get to explore a fantastic destination, but you get to make lots of friends in the process.
Going on a Contiki is a rite of passage for many young kiwis going on their OE. It's a way to travel the world, get involved with different cultures and expose yourself to a blend of sightseeing and heart-thumping activities. What it's most famously known for is travelling with friendly and like-minded travellers between 18-35 years old.
Group tours for young adults with Contiki have all of the essentials included in the overall price, including internal trip travel, accommodations, trip managers, and activities. Here are my recommendations for the best Contiki tours in 2024, including vacations in Western Europe, Thailand, Egypt, and other popular destinations around the world.
The Bus. Contiki is the most popular bus tour company for young travelers (18-35). They operate in Europe, Russia, Egypt, Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Asia — but most of the info in this guide will be focused on their European tours.
How Contiki gives you more bang for your bucket list: ⛷️HIT THE SLOPES IN 2025⛷️. With social ski trips in Austria, Canada, NZ & Japan. All levels welcome! Go Thai Island hopping in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi & other sunny faves with 15%* off + 5% more with 'GOTHAIWEST'. The one that takes you to west Thailand for a tour of Phuket, Koh ...
Europe tours operated by Contiki with 5,628 reviews (175 tours in total). Book and save with TourRadar.com - Best Price Guarantee. Shop 2,500 operators. 4.5 stars on (6,760 reviews) ... "The trip experience was fast paced and could have been chaotic but with Ri's guidance and travel expertise it flowed seamlessly." Susannah, traveled in July 2023
A Contiki tour is an organised, culturally immersive trip led by expert guides, where travellers get to explore new and interesting places and make friends from all over the world, with zero hassle, delicious meals included and multiple travel styles to choose from.
This tour is for 18-35 year olds and it was definitely geared towards activities that age group would find fun! It was every bit educational, adventurous, and fun as you'd want it to be! On our tour we biked, hiked, swam in waterfalls, played with elephants, went to local bars, and more! Each tour has (1) Contiki Guide and (1) Local Guide.
For tours departing after November 21st, 2024, a minimum payment of $200 is required to confirm your booking with Contiki. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour.
Contiki's Powder Rush Tour offers the ultimate Canadian Ski adventure on this 9-day tour for snow lovers. Join a maximum group of 52 other powder hounds for your best winter holiday yet. This trip is perfect for meeting new slope buddies, sharing snow stories, and experiencing Canada's stunning natural beauty.
Travel Updates Contiki acknowledges the Traditional and Torres Strait Island owners of the land, sea and waters of the spectacular Australian continent. As we explore this remarkable land, we recognise and respect their custodianship of a unique, ancient culture and country.
11 Kickbacks Determine Included Activities Instead Of Quality . Travelers who have been on a Contiki tour suspect that trip managers are paid to bring their groups to certain locations, according to Fodor's Travel. Key tourist attractions like the Louvre are passed up in favor of a leather shoemaking course designed to get tourists to shell out more cash.
Things to Do in Dubna, Russia: See Tripadvisor's 1,935 traveler reviews and photos of Dubna attractions.
National Wildlife Visitor Center T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge Mount Isabel de Torres The Masonic Third Man Records Gerbang Malam Mercado Municipal De Artesanias Piedra Del Peñol The Boatyard Vromolimnos Beach Mt Bromo Sunrise & Madakaripura Waterfall from Surabaya & Malang Koh Rap, Koh Taen Snorkeling, kayaking, Pig & Deer Feeding ...
Time Zone: (GMT-10:00) ABOUT CONTIKI. From quick breaks to epic journeys, Contiki exists to connect young travelers with the time of their lives. See more about Contiki. Go surfing with the pros at Sunset Beach on the North Shore (Waikiki) In tropical Waikiki, the surf is always up. 7 miles long and the setting for the Vans Triple Crown Surfing ...
12. Museum of Dubna Museum of Archeology and Local History of Dubna, Moscow Region. What a wonderful experience! The locals have put tremendous effort into uncovering and preserving the history of this... 13. Museum of the History of Science and Technology. Joint Institute for Nuclear Research. 14. Arkhimed Pool.
Every single Contiki social travel trip is managed by one of our expert Trip Managers, who are there to provide hands-on support and ensure your trip runs smoothly whilst you stay in the moment. From 2022 your good time will be good for the planet as all Contiki trips are carbon natural. Find out more here.
Review of: Church of the Smolensk Icon of the Mother. Written June 3, 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Highly rated activities with free entry in Dubna: The top things to do for free.