Top Group Tours for Solo Travelers Seeking Companionship

Solo travel doesn’t have to mean being alone the whole time. If you're someone who loves exploring new places but also craves companionship along the way, group tours are a perfect solution. These trips give you the best of both worlds: independence when you want it, and a ready-made group of fellow travelers to share experiences with. The great thing is, there’s a group tour out there for every type of solo traveler, whether you're into adventure, cultural immersion, or something more laid-back.

1. G Adventures – Small Groups with a Purpose

G Adventures has carved out a reputation as a go-to for solo travelers who want more than just a vacation. With a focus on small groups (usually around 12-16 people), the company aims to foster genuine connections among travelers while also supporting local communities. They offer trips that range from budget-friendly options to more comfortable styles, so whether you're backpacking through Southeast Asia or embarking on an African safari, there's likely an option that fits your style.

A unique aspect of G Adventures is their commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism. You might find yourself staying in community-run guesthouses or learning about local conservation efforts firsthand. And if you’re anxious about joining as a solo traveler, don’t worry – the company reports that over half of its customers travel alone, so you’re guaranteed to meet others in the same boat.

Some popular G Adventures tours for solo travelers include their classic "Inca Trail" trek in Peru or island-hopping through Greece. You can explore their options here: G Adventures.

2. Intrepid Travel – Adventure with Like-Minded Travelers

If you're looking for an adventure with social impact in mind, Intrepid Travel is another top choice. Like G Adventures, they focus on small-group tours, and their trips cater to solo travelers who want to dive deep into the culture and environment of each destination. Many of their trips have a specific focus, like food, cycling, or wildlife, so whatever your passion, there’s probably an Intrepid trip designed around it.

One unique thing about Intrepid is that they offer different travel “styles.” For instance, if you want something more intimate and comfortable, you might opt for their “Comfort” trips which feature upgraded accommodations and transportation. On the other hand, if you're looking for something more rugged and adventurous, their “Basix” tours strip things down to essentials, perfect for those who enjoy roughing it while keeping costs low.

Over 60% of Intrepid's travelers join alone, so you'll be in good company! You can check out their wide range of tours (from Antarctica expeditions to cycling through Vietnam) at Intrepid Travel.

3. Contiki – Fun and Social for Young Travelers

If you’re under 35 and looking for a lively, energetic group tour experience where making friends is just as important as seeing the sights, Contiki could be your match. Contiki specializes in tours designed specifically for 18-35-year-olds and has a reputation for being social-centric. So if you enjoy the idea of traveling through Europe or Australia with new friends by day and hitting the local nightlife by night, this is the company to look at.

The beauty of Contiki is that while there are plenty of opportunities for socializing (and partying), they also organize plenty of cultural activities too, think wine tastings in Tuscany or snorkeling in Thailand’s crystal-clear waters. Their accommodation options are generally shared rooms in hotels or hostels, making it easy to bond with fellow travelers right from the start.

With thousands of trips across over 50 countries, it's no wonder Contiki remains one of the most popular choices among young solo travelers looking for companionship on their journey. Explore Contiki’s tours here: Contiki.

4. Exodus Travels – Adventure Meets Nature

If you're someone who loves outdoor adventures but isn't keen on organizing every detail yourself, Exodus Travels could be your ideal group tour option. With more than 500 itineraries across over 90 countries, Exodus caters especially well to nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in hiking expeditions, wildlife safaris, or even polar adventures.

Their guided trips are led by experienced local leaders who not only know the terrain but also provide insights into regional culture and history along the way. From trekking through Patagonia’s stunning mountains to discovering gorillas in Uganda’s misty jungles, Exodus’ tours offer unforgettable experiences with like-minded adventurers.

A significant portion of those on Exodus tours are solo travelers and if you’d prefer not to pay extra for your own room (as often happens with some companies), they offer room-sharing options at no extra cost.Check out what Exodus Travels has to offer here: Exodus Travels.

5. Trafalgar – A Mix of Comfort and Culture

If you prefer something that blends cultural experiences with comfort (and perhaps even some luxury), Trafalgar is worth considering. They specialize in organized itineraries that delve into local life while ensuring you’re staying at quality accommodations along the way. While Trafalgar isn’t specifically marketed toward solo travelers like some other companies on this list, many of their guests do travel solo and there’s no shortage of opportunities to make friends within your group.

Trafalgar offers guided vacations all over the globe with themes ranging from food and wine tours in Italy to exploring historic castles throughout Scotland. Their “Be My Guest” experiences allow travelers direct access to local families and communities, a unique way to engage with cultures up-close.

If you're concerned about single supplements (extra fees for solo rooms), Trafalgar sometimes waives these fees on select departures.Learn more about Trafalgar’s offerings here: Trafalgar.

Group tours are not only a safe way to explore new destinations but also an amazing opportunity to meet people from different walks of life who share your love for travel. Whether you're after adrenaline-pumping adventures or laid-back cultural experiences, there’s a tour out there waiting for you, with friendships just waiting to be made along the way.