Travel blog

Why Solo Travellers Are Choosing Group Tours

Travelling solo doesn’t mean going it alone. In fact, more and more people are joining group tours as a way to explore the world independently, but with the added bonus of a bit of structure and the opportunity to meet like-minded adventurers along the way.

2.6min read

Published 9 May 2025

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

Whether you're a first-time solo traveller or a seasoned explorer, group tours offer an incredible way to see the world with safety, comfort, and connection.

Here’s why booking a group tour is one of the best choices solo travellers can make, and how it can completely transform your travel experience. Just be warned that after your first taste, you may find yourself travelling the world via tour group.

In this blog

Why Solo Travellers Love Group Tours

It might seem like solo travel and group travel don’t go together, but group tours are amazing for solo travellers. Why? Touring solo with a group gives you the best of both worlds. You get the freedom of travelling on your own terms, with the added bonus of built-in company, support, and local guidance. In fact, you’ll be in good company. Around 60% of people on some group tours are travelling solo, meaning there’s a good chance your travel buddies will be fellow independent explorers just like you.

You’ll also benefit from the ease of having logistics handled, the comfort of having a guide, and the shared joy of new experiences. If you don’t have anyone able to travel with you but you’re desperate to see the world, you can just make new friends along the way!

What’s Included on a Group Tour?

Exact offerings will depend on the tour operator, destination, and the type of group tour you choose. But with that said, most guided tours for solo travellers include:

Accommodation (usually twin share with same-sex solo travellers. Some operators also offer the option of a private room for an extra cost)
A local or international tour guide who can give you expert insights and help you navigate new situations and places. Some tour operators call them Chief Experience Officers (CEO)
Meals (breakfasts and select dinners)
Sightseeing activities (and sometimes entrance fees too)
Ground transport between destinations
Scheduled free time for exploring places on your own.

Depending on the type of tour you choose, you could find yourself joining a cooking class in Tuscany, spotting wildlife on safari in Kenya, or sailing the Greek Islands with other solo adventurers.

Where You Can Go

Whether you're craving cultural immersion or a nature escape, there are countless destinations to explore. Some of the most popular group tours for solo travellers include:

Asia - Vibrant cultures and delicious food to stunning landscapes and affordable prices.
Costa Rica – For rainforest adventures, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Japan – Culture-rich cities, countryside escapes, and amazing food.
Italy – A classic for art, food, and scenic countryside.
Middle East – Egypt and Jordan are top picks for history lovers.
Iceland – For nature lovers who don’t want to brave driving Icelandic roads solo

Pros and Cons of Touring Solo with a Group

So, what are the pros and cons of joining a tour group as a solo traveller? We think there are mostly pros, but there are some things to consider if you’re used to travelling with family, friends or your partner – or typically hit up a destination totally independently.

Pros:

No planning stress—everything’s sorted for you.
Built-in safety with expert local guides.
Meet like-minded travellers.
Travel to places that are tricky to do alone.
Split costs like transport and activities.

One of the biggest perks of joining a group tour as a solo traveller is peace of mind. Tour guides are trained to handle logistics, emergencies, and everything in between. You’ll also get insights into local customs, cultural differences, and safety tips, all while travelling with a small group that quickly feel like friends.

The average group size is around 11 people, which is small enough to form meaningful connections, but big enough that you get the benefits of different perspectives and shared group dynamics.

Cons: Not much at all!

A little less flexibility compared to fully independent travel.
You may need to share a room unless you pay for a private one (but you could end up with a new bestie!)

Top 6 Bucket List Travel Experiences Best For Touring

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Top Tips for Choosing Your First Group Tour

Pick your style: Want high-energy adventures or laid-back luxury? Choose a tour that matches your vibe and what you want from a holiday. Even the best group tour in the world won’t make you love a hiking holiday if you prefer sipping on cocktails by the beach.
Check the inclusions: Not all tours include flights, meals, or sightseeing. Make sure you know what’s covered.
Ask about solo options: Some tours offer roommate matching, while others may charge a single supplement. Both have their pros and cons, and it mostly depends on the type of person and traveller you are!

Here are some of the best Tour operators to choose from when you book with Flight Centre:

On the Go
Contiki
Cosmos
Costsaver
G Adventures
Globus
Insight Vacations
Intrepid
Trafalgar

Still not sure which tour is for you? Try our tour quiz to help find your perfect match.

Final Thought

Solo travel doesn’t have to be lonely. In fact, it might just be the most social way to explore the world. With a group tour, you’ll meet new people, try new things, and make memories you never expected.

Chat to a Flight Centre expert to find the perfect group tour for solo travellers—your next great adventure is ready when you are.