Travel & Leisure Magazine readers have selected their Top 5 Tour Operators for 2015, presented in the 2015 World’s Best Awards. Here are the winners!
Specializing in high end walking and cycling tours, Butterfield Robinson moves to the number one spot this year. Geared toward 50+, but welcome to all ages, there are tours ranging from more strenuous like an Inca Trail hike to a leisurely bike tour through French wine country. Flexibility is a huge part of their approach. Group members don’t have to stay together -- you can stop at cafes or museums along the way as you see fit and you can even take the afternoon off if you wish. A Burgundy Biking tour is a great introduction to what they have to offer.
2. VTB Bicycling & Walking Vacations
High quality tours at low cost and less strenuous activity level makes VTB a perfect outing. Most everything is included in the price, except for a few meals -- and that includes use of a customized bike on cycling tours or walking poles on walking tours, and special packages including international airfare. Tours are kept fairly short, between 2 and six hours a day, with knowledgable helpful staff available at all times. One of their most popular trips is to Machu Picchu.
Dropping from the number one spot, yet still a fantastic choice, Classic Journeys emphasizes both ecotourism and luxury adventure travel. Group sizes are small, allowing guides to take the groups in impulsive directions at times. It's adventure travel with all the comforts of local cuisine and fine inns. Specializing in a local experience, they utilize local guides and sample regional cuisine. They are primarily known for easy-going walking tours, but also offer culinary and family tours. Get ready for an immersive experience with their Cuba Family Vacation.
For a spectacular adventure travel experience, look no further than Wilderness Travel. A little bit of everything is available, including private tours, small ship cruises, and family trips. Several trips are so specialized they are only available every few years, but that authenticity is what makes them ideal for adventurous travelers. Wilderness Travel ranks its trips from one to seven in order of difficulty, so you have plenty of choice -- just as in destinations, which include seven continents and remote locations featured in their special expeditions. Check out their popular Komodo Snorkeling Expedition.
With tours led by highly qualified and knowledgeable destination experts, with Kensington Tours the focus is on authentic experience. Every itinerary is individually crafted to suit unique tastes and interests. Several types of tours are offered, including luxury, family travel, and adventure. Discover Slovenia with their Green Charms of Slovenia tour.
