What's it like on tour?

Local watering hole

Local watering hole

The first thing you may want to know when planning your trip is 'what's it like on tour?'

With the Explore formula, you can be assured that for starters you'll find yourself with a group of like-minded, adventurous and sociable people - right from day one. The social aspect of sharing an adventure has been one of the great incentives to 'go Explore' right from the start. And having a trained tour leader with you throughout the tour just adds to the feeling of being on a chilled, no-worries and fun holiday.

Because on the whole our trips are itinerary-based, some early starts can be expected - especially when it's vital to reach that UNESCO site before the hordes, or enjoy a sunrise over the dunes, or witness the four-legged morning 'rush hour' at the savannah's watering hole.

As for your accommodation, you can expect it to be comfy and clean - typically '3-starred' to use an international rule of thumb. It's usually in a twin room, which you will either share with your friend/partner or, if travelling solo, with a same-sex member of your group. Most of our tours offer the option of a single room (for a surprisingly low supplement).

Food arrangements vary from trip to trip, with breakfast often provided, full board included on the majority of camping or lodge-based days and your tour leader arranging many meals for the group, or recommending the most reliable restaurants.

And if, as a 'rookie' Explorer you're still wondering, 'OK, but what's it really like?', suffice to say that customers booking their 10th tour with us have more than doubled since 2001. With Explore, you really do see more.

About our tours

In Ethiopia's Omo Valley

In Ethiopia's Omo Valley

There is a myriad of possibilities when choosing your trip. Be prepared to be whisked away to far-off lands, taste different cultures and view awesome sights.

Find out what it's really like on tour, about travelling on your own, the types of meals and accommodation, about our tour leaders and our committment to Responsible Tourism.

Tour participation

Descending the High Atlas

Descending the High Atlas/Jerry Lefevre

Our trips are a fantastic way to get out there and meet people, ideal whether you are a 'people person' or you like to keep yourself to yourself.

The key to enjoying what we do is to be sociable, willing to muck in on occasions (as outlined in each tour dossier) and to be prepared for some basic conditions, depending on your destination. Our groups bond amazingly quickly - with many staying friends afterwards and organising reunions, or even another Explore tour together.

Have a look at tour participation to find out whether an Explore trip is right for you.

Teen Departures

Brand new to Explore, our Teen Departures are ideal for older children who really want to spend their holiday with their peers. It's also a great way for parents to have a bit more free time to themselves.

What's included

Have a look at what's included on an Explore holiday - it's not just an amazing adventure; it's also great value for money!

Joining your tour

Prefer to take a tour without flights - i.e. on a 'Land Only' basis? We explain what would happen at the start of the tour for you.