A Private Tour versus a Group Tour

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, there might to be a surge in demand for private tours as an additional precaution to protect travellers from each other, although some might argue it’s a flawed plan given the unavoidable congestion of airports and planes. Pandemic or not we thought we’d look into the main pros and cons of private and group tours so you can decide what best suits you.

PRICE  

Unsurprisingly, private tours are expensive, especially when compared directly with group tours which offer very good value given all the communal costs such as transport and guide fees which are shared amongst the group. So if you’re travelling in small numbers then you’ll need a heavy wallet. However, often for groups of friends or families, the increase in price per person is marginal, making it a worthwhile investment given the benefits such as flexibility which can be particularly useful for families, especially with young or elderly members. 

FLEXIBILITY 

Group tours are designed to enable people to see the highlights of a destination at affordable prices but by their very nature they are generally rigid and although many offer free time it’s difficult to wander too far from, what is often a well-trodden path. Private tours, however, offer the ultimate flexibility to tailoring your itinerary to adjusting it while travelling, it is after all only your group and all under the guidance of the local experts you have booked through. Although you may have a clear idea of what you want from your holiday, it is important to remember that the operator should be a local expert, so allow yourself to be informed and lead when finalising the details of your itinerary.

PRIVACY  

There are some of us who shiver at the thought of having to make small talk with bad-mannered strangers we’ve been thrust onto a table with over lunch while on a group tour and others who delight at the opportunity to get to know someone new, maybe even a new friend for life! It is a bit of a lottery but as someone who naturally sits more in the shivering category but has experienced many group tours, it is very rarely as bad as you think it’s going to be. Even if they aren’t a new friend for life, you are all living in that moment and sharing the bond experiencing the same adventure. Still shivering? Then a private tour is definitely for you!

Untravelled Paths offers public set departure dates but also offers bespoke private tours on request so if that’s what you are looking for then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on info@untravelledpaths.com.

Written by James Chisnall, Untravelled Paths

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