Top Handicap Accessible Tours & Destinations

July 26, 2017

Accessible Trips & Advice for (Dis)abled Travelers

Traveling with a physical disability is a challenge but it doesn’t have to feel impossible. The number of travel companies that are adding handicapped-friendly itineraries is growing rapidly, and more and more destinations around the world are improving how they cater to travelers with disabilities.

There is almost nowhere in the world that disabled travelers CAN’T travel, though some are certainly easier. Just as with non-disabled travelers, some people are more adventurous and willing to put up with some challenges and discomforts. This article considers options that will appeal to both.

We’ve compiled a top list of tours and destinations for handicapped travelers to consider. For more information, check out our other articles on the subject:

3 Top accessible tours for travelers with a disability*

*All these tours are from companies that specialize specifically in disability travel. See below for some other tour ideas.

1. Accessible Bali with Travel for All

women dancing in bali

Southeast Asia may seem like an unconventional choice for disabled travelers, but many countries there, including Indonesia have made great progress in improving their cities to be more handicap-friendly. And companies like Travel for All have made it even easier to access all that this tropical paradise has to offer through beach-friendly wheelchairs, knowledgeable and accomodating guides, and slower-paced tours to waterfalls, volcanoes, and more. Plus, they offer plenty of cultural bits too - like cooking classes and dance performances.

From $2,495 per person. 5 stars. 12 Days. See Itinerary

2. Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Park with Access Tours

Buffalo on the road in Yellowstone National Park

National Parks, especially in the United States have really upped their game in recent years making handicap accessible routes to the spectacular views and natural phenomenon that attract travelers day after day.

On this tour, you’ll spend some time driving through the dramatic landscape of Wyoming and three full days are devoted to exploring Yellowstone’s unforgettable scenery, including the ever punctual Old Faithful.

From $2,860 per person. Not yet rated. 9 Days. See Itinerary

3. 7 Day France Journey from Paris with The Relaxed Explorer

Louvre in Paris, France

The best part of booking a trip with The Relaxed Explorer is that they offer complete customization for your vacation. If you're looking to fill your days with guided tours to the Louvre Museum, wine tasting, and visits to the best cafes- they can make it happen. But if you're looking for some more independent exploration of famous Paris with a little bit of assistance, then that can be on the agenda too.

From $2,900 per person. 5 stars. 7 Days. See Itinerary

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Accessible Trips & Advice for (Dis)abled Travelers ...continued

Unique travel destinations to consider for disabled travelers*

*These tour suggestions are with companies that don’t specialize specifically in accessible travel but have accessible options

Always check with the tour company before booking that you will be comfortable and able to participate in most of the activities.

1. South Korea

south korea temple roof

South Korea is a beautiful country, with wonderful people. Seoul was named one of the most wheelchair accessible cities by WheelchairTravel.org with a high sidewalk and public transit score.

2. A Cruise to the Galapagos

birds on the galapagos islands

Surprisingly, The Galapagos Islands are not out of reach for disabled travelers. Most tours to the Galapagos are cruises - which is an excellent way to travel for disabled travelers. The opportunities to observe diverse wildlife up close is without equal - if you are a photographer this is the trip for you.

It is important to note that a trip to the Galapagos will require more physical exertion. If you want to consider something a bit more adventurous, this is possible, but do note that there are more physical requirements. Depending on your individual condition you may be denied from attending these more activity-heavy cruises.

3. Gibraltar

Gilbraltar, Spain

This unique destination off the coast of Spain has a surprisingly high rating on wheelchairtravel.org. The climate is mild, the history fascinating and it is a very accessible and friendly destination.

4. Tel Aviv, Israel

view of tel aviv skyline

Though the area of the world can be contentious, Tel Aviv, Israel has snuck to the front of the line when it comes to accessible destinations. According to WheelchairTraveling.org, most stops along the railway are wheelchair accessible, though not all - so plan accordingly.

 

 

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Avoid most river cruises if you’re after an accessible vacation

River cruise vessels by design are slim and low, which gives them the ability to traverse smaller tributaries, sail beneath low bridges, and dock at smaller ports. This does mean that not all will have elevators however, so while you may be able to travel in a wheelchair, your access to the upper viewing deck may be limited.

The best option: Accessible German River Cruise

It is also important that wheelchair travelers have a travel companion who can help. Situations such as disembarking at ports, where gangways aren’t always the most sturdy and cutting tight corners of boat hallways may often require another set of hands.

Unless you’re prepared to do a lot of extra research, consider going for small ship cruises instead of river cruises for the best accessible travel experience.

If your heart is set on a river cruise, a highly recommended route is Westbound along the Danube River in Europe. You will hit a number of countries, many of which are very easily accessible. This is also a classic cruise, calm and beautiful - even from the deck you will take in wonderful views day and night.

Viking River Cruises is a top recommended river cruise line for accessible travel.

The Myth of Europe in Accessible Travel

Cinque Terre, Italy

Often when considering an accessible vacation, travelers can make the mistake of thinking “western world” equals comfort and ease for wheelchairs, walkers, and senior travelers.

In reality, many European cities may prove challenging to navigate unless you stay in the more modern areas and away from many of the historic sites.

The cobblestones are charming but can be extremely uncomfortable to walk along, let alone wheel a chair. These surfaces are uneven hard stone, and it can be easy to slip - especially if you have weak hips or feet and aren’t wearing sturdy footwear.

Exploring Europe's many castles can also be a strain. Steps are steep and hard, and often of the spiral variety which can be dizzying for even the more able-bodied traveler.

That said, there are some stand-out cities that combine both European charm and accessible travel options.

1. Berlin, Germany 

Numerous sources cite Berlin and Munich as stand-out cities for accessibility. Each city scores a solid 4 out of 5 in all key areas for WheelchairTravel.org - except, it’s worth noting, for wheelchair-friendly taxis.

2. Amsterdam 

For a lovely European getaway look no further than charming Amsterdam. And it is the perfect destination for boat tours through the canals - a great option for wheelchair travelers. And then there are the medicinal properties of a certain highly available plant…

The city is largely flat as well, making it easy to walk or roll longer distances. This is good as WheelchairTravel.org notes only a 3 out of 5 score on the Public Transit.

3. Paris 

Another flat and easily walkable city, Paris stands out for having a 5 out of 5 rating for wheelchair accessible taxis on WheelchairTravel.org. Paris’ main drawback would probably be the crowds, which are heavy year-round but especially in the summer.

Multiple main attractions are very welcome to wheelchairs and other handicapped travelers. The first two floors of the Eiffel Tower are open to disabled travelers, the Louvre is accessible (if often crowded), and most other museums in Paris are easily traversable by those who are wheelchair-bound.

The other positive note to traveling in Europe for those who are disabled is the train system. A great way to visit multiple countries in comfort, and venture farther than might seem possible, such as the alpine meadows of Switzerland.

See all train journeys in Europe


Additional Resources

Disabled World - A wealth of information, tips, and articles not only travel-related.

SATH - Founded in 1976, this organization helps provide helpful and extensive information to senior and disabled people looking to travel.

Sage Traveling - European-specific information for disabled travelers. 

Wheelchair Traveling - A great website for all ages wheelchair travelers. They have a diverse offering from personal stories, videos, and advice columns.

Brett Approved - Comprehensive reviews for finding accessible establishments and destinations

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