go ahead tours 2023

The Scoop: What to Know About EF Go Ahead Tours

Affordable, experiential, and accessible tours are ef go ahead tours' focus..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

• Curious about EF Go Ahead Tours? Here’s our objective snapshot of what to expect from the tour company.
• I’ve updated it for 2024 and verified that all the info is current.

The tour company EF Go Ahead Tours is owned by EF Education First, a company that’s been offering language, academic, and cultural programs for more than 50 years. The tour arm of the company focuses on being an affordable, experiential, and accessible way for travelers to connect with the world. 

TourScoop Takeaways

• Countries: 87 countries on seven continents
• Tour size average: The standard group size is capped at 38 guests. EF Go Ahead Tours’ small group tours range in size from 10 to 22 people. Private tours can be arranged with seven or more people, and custom tours with 14 or more people.
• Tour type: Coach, ferries, trains, flights

Credibility Check

EF Go Ahead Tours is accredited by the Better Business Bureau has an A+ rating from the organization, though currently user ratings are low on the site. The company is an active member of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). Note that there are many more ratings and reviews of EF Educational Tours (the branch of the organization that operates academic programs) than EF Go Ahead Tours, but that they are operated separately and for different audiences. 

Tour Destinations

EF Go Ahead Tours has itineraries in 87 countries on all seven continents. Some of its most popular destinations include Italy, Portugal, Kenya, Costa Rica, and Ireland.

EF Go Ahead Tours has many different tour types . On the more traditional end of tours are its multi-country and grand tours, which bundle multiple destinations into a single trip. There are also city stay tours, which give travelers the chance to go deep in a single European city for a week of guided excursions. There are also special event tours that focus on special access to major celebrations like Oktoberfest, New Year’s Eve, and St. Patrick’s Day. Additionally, the company has history tours; national park tours; religious and spiritual tours; tours geared to families; and tours for solo travelers.  

It also operates small group tours that range in size from 10 to 22 people and focus on adventure travel, food and wine, or safari and wildlife. 

Tour Guides

Tour leaders, known as tour directors, bring backgrounds in tourism, history, and/or education. Tour directors partner with local guides along the way to offer participants additional insights into specific destinations. Many tour directors have been with EF Go Ahead Tours for 20 years or longer. 

Inclusions/Extras

Itineraries are a mix of guided tours and group meals, plus free time so guests can explore at their own pace. Airfare isn’t part of the base rate, but EF Go Ahead Tours offers flight booking with airport transfers, plus help if flights are canceled. 

Typical Travelers

EF Go Ahead Tours guests tend to be 35 and older, with most tours attracting a mix of solo, couple, and group travelers. 

Communication 

Travelers who have booked a tour can download EF Go Ahead’s mobile app to access resources and pre-departure information. Within three months of tour, the company offers a pre-departure information session that’s also available on-demand. 

The company regularly updates its FAQ Hub with frequently asked questions. It also has a dedicated expert team for urgent issues that may arise before or during a tour.

Loyalty Program

EF Go Ahead Tours’ loyalty program, Club Go , allows guests to earn tour credits to put toward future trips, collectible moment and milestone badges, flexible rebooking benefits, and an online hub. 

Private Options

Any of the company’s 175+ itineraries can be packaged as a Private Tour . EF Go Ahead Tours allows groups of 14 or more to customize their experience on a custom tour, and offers private tours on existing itineraries for groups of seven or more. 

Sustainability Efforts

EF Go Ahead Tours has partnered with Eden Reforestation Projects to create and conserve forests to plant 3 million mangrove trees. The company has been carbon negative since 2021, with the goal is to be historically carbon neutral (dating back to 1965).

The company collaborates with the communities it travels to in an effort to preserve local cultures and encourage sustainability. It also works with travelers to share how thoughtful travel choices can leave a lasting, positive impact on destinations, people, and the environment.

Health and Safety Practices

EF Go Ahead Tours puts into place health and safety protocols with its Travel-Ready Approach . As part of this, it operates both a crisis response team and its EF Global Safety Network, which constantly reviews national and international travel guidelines. It also offers 24/7 on-call support,  50,000 EF staff on the ground in 50 countries, and more than half a century of traveler support. 

Family Companies

EF Go Ahead Tours parent company EF Education First focuses on programs for students and teachers. It has language programs, university programs, and gap year offerings.

More from TourScoop:

• Review: EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food and Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany Tour
• 14 Best Group Travel Companies for Guided Tours
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Travel Leader EF Go Ahead Tours Opens Tour Dates Through 2023 and Sets Private Group Tour Threshold to Seven Travelers, Lowest in Industry

First tour operator to offer extended advance planning and cater to micro-groups; empowering travelers to book how and when they feel ready to travel again

BOSTON, Feb. 4, 2021 -- In response to strong consumer demand and new travel preferences emerging from the Covid-19 pandemic, EF Go Ahead Tours (GAT) , a premier provider of culturally immersive travel experiences, announces significant flexibility, experiential, and value enhancements to its portfolio of travel offerings.

"Since the announcement of the vaccine this past November, we've seen a 30% increase in new reservations for future 2022 travel over the previous quarter," says Heidi Durflinger, President of EF Go Ahead Tours. "Whether you're looking forward to traveling this year, next year or in 2023, this allows you to plan for when the time is right for you. People really need something to look forward to and so we are seeing bookings coming in for the future at an unprecedented rate. Travel is truly a unique and special way to finally reconnect with family and friends."

Two Year Advance Booking – Tour Dates Now Open Through 2023 As of February 4th, all travelers – whether they're eager to get back on the road this year, waiting for 2022, or taking the long view to 2023 – will be able to view and book all tour dates through 2023 for all 175+ EF Go Ahead Tours itineraries to all seven continents.

Private and Customized Tours Start at Just Seven Travelers – Go with People You Know Another trend Go Ahead's recent sweep of enhancements addresses is the growing demand for travel in a "small pod" or "travel bubble." Keeping with its goal of making travel accessible to all, Go Ahead is now offering customized or private tours to groups as small as just seven travelers, the lowest in the industry. Perfect for family and friends looking to reconnect or for groups wanting to customize the experience to a specific passion or interest. Turn any of Go Ahead's 175+ itineraries into a Private Tour or dream up a new itinerary with a Customized Tour.

Responsive Travel Safety, On-The-Road Support and Flexible, Risk-Free Planning Go Ahead Tours takes a comprehensive approach to travel in the age of Covid-19, including new safety guidelines, ongoing 24-7 response, and EF's Covid Care Promise, worry-free on-the-road support. Flexible, risk-free planning is central to Go Ahead's promise to make travel accessible. Only $99 down to book and no payments for 60 days. Every itinerary has a window where it is fully refundable with no change fees.

EF Go Ahead Tours offers more than 175 guided trips across six continents. Each carefully planned, expertly led tour makes it easy for curious travelers of all ages to get to the heart of a destination. With a maximum group size well below the industry average, each trip has the perfect balance of planned sightseeing and free time to explore. EF Go Ahead Tours is a part of EF Education First, the world's largest international education company that was founded in 1965. With a mission of opening the world through education, EF Education First has 612 offices and schools in 50 countries.

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Vita, vino, e viaggio!

Review of EF Go Ahead Tours

Everyone has their own preference when it comes to how they travel and one of my favorites is with tour groups. I love that they coordinate transportation, hotels, and the agenda and I just get to enjoy the ride. I’ve done a couple of tours with EF Ultimate Break and this summer I brought Rick on his first group tour with EF Go Ahead Tours on their Barcelona, Southern France, and the Italian Riviera tour .

It was a whirlwind adventure and an unforgettable getaway that spanned four countries. After reviewing our countless photos, adding in our new souvenirs to our decor at home, and finally catching up on the right time zone, it’s time to write up how our experience went.

If you’re looking at doing a tour with them, here’s our review of Go Ahead and our first tour experience with them!

Go Ahead’s customer service

From our booking to our bon voyage email, Go Ahead’s customer service staff is excellent. We booked using one of their seasonal promotions and when it didn’t take right away, a customer support rep quickly made sure our discount was added to our invoice. We had a rep, Ashley, who was in frequent contact with us via email to make sure we had all of our questions answered, ensured we were ready for our trip, and wishing us a good time on our tour.

I can think of only one incident where I called to ask about something regarding our tour and the guy on the phone was curt and seemed eager to get off the phone. But for just one not great conversation compared to the other quality reps, I’ll take it.

Another fun surprise was the Go Kit they send prior to your tour which includes good info for your tour and a fun keepsake – that we’re definitely making use of at home!

Tour Director

I’ve loved all my tour directors that are part of the EF family and our TD for this trip, Valentina, was no exception. She was friendly, easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and always around if you needed her. Valentina was awesome at providing recommendations for things to do during our free time or tips for shopping and dining in each city.

She was great at making sure we all knew what was on the schedule for the day, the timing of the activities, and picking easy to find meeting spots to regroup after our free time in various cities. She made sure to check in with everyone in our group to make sure they were having a good time and enjoyed what was on the day’s agenda.

Accommodations

Since Go Ahead targets an adult and family demographic, it stands that their hotel choices should be a step above the ones we used on Ultimate Break that are designed for budget-friendly 18 – 28 year olds. My assumption was correct and all the hotels we stayed at were great.

The rooms were spacious, the furnishings comfortable, and they all had AC – which was pretty strong for Europe’s standards. The hotels ranged from charming boutiques to well-known brands. Some were older and had beautiful decor and older furnishings and some were more modern with upgraded in-room amenities. Most of the hotels had on-site gyms and a few even had pools – our hotel in Cannes used the pool area for breakfast each morning which had a nice ambiance to it and the hotel in Barcelona had a pool on the rooftop with a bar.

Each hotel stay included breakfast each morning and each hotel had a nice spread of cereals, pastries and breads, cold cuts and cheeses, hot items like fried eggs, potatoes, and pancakes, as well as coffee, tea, juice, and water. I think our hotel in Barcelona had the best food at breakfast but our hotel in Rome had the best view at breakfast.

Some of the hotels we stayed at on our trip include:

• Hotel Catalonia Eixample 1864
• Crowne Plaza Montpellier – Corum
• Clarion Suites Cannes Croisette
• Starhotels Michelangelo
• Hotel Romanico Palace

Transportation

We used a coach bus for most of our transportation around the city and to the next stop on our itinerary. The bus was comfortable, the seats leaned back, there was overhead space for smaller day bags, and backseat pockets to hold books or water bottles. We had the same bus and bus driver from Barcelona to Florence and he was friendly, welcoming, and got us to our locations in good time and safely. We were all sad to say goodbye to Massimo in Florence but Peter, who drove us from Florence to Rome was also nice and a great driver.

Airport transfers

We added on airport transfers for an affordable rate so we’d be picked up at the start of our tour and dropped off at the end. If you buy flights with them, this is included in the price.

I will note that we can’t comment on how they organize flights for their tours as we opted to book our own flights. We were able to use credit card points and the affordable Norwegian Airlines to get over there and added a few days in London to our Europe getaway. I had no issues with having Ultimate Break coordinate flights on my other trips so I can only assume it was the same way for Go Ahead.

Local tours

At the major cities of our tour, we would meet with a certified local guide to take us on our sightseeing tours – like when we were in Barcelona, Nimes, Florence, and Rome. Some of them would be with us for two days or for our included city tour and an optional excursion.

All of our local tour guides were fantastic. They were all passionate about the cities they live in, they were knowledgeable, and spoke excellent English. I love that they use headsets for our local tours so you can listen to the tour guide but you’re able to wander off a bit and take some photos or admire a landmark or point of interest without a giant crowd.

The local tour guides knew how to share their stories and keep our group moving through the city at a decent pace. Our tour guide in Rome was exceptional at finding the shady spots in the Coliseum for us to stand in (and avoid the boiling heat) as she shared fun facts! I think Go Ahead has a good handle on finding the right local tour companies with great guides.

Itinerary & inclusions

The itinerary is what pulled me in and the inclusions are what pulled Rick in. I loved the idea of spending my golden birthday exploring the Mediterranean and discovering a variety of places we probably wouldn’t get to otherwise.

Our Barcelona, Southern France, and the Italian Riviera trip was 14 days, including our Rome extension – though more like 17 for us since we added in London on our own. The first and last day of the tour don’t really count as they’re travel days, but it was still a pretty decently long trip.

We started in Barcelona and had the most time there with three days total (really about two and a half after arriving and getting to the hotel). There were three optional excursions to add on to our time in Barcelona and we booked two of them – we decided to skip Montserrat. Then, it was off to France with a one-night stay in Montpellier before making our way to Cannes for a two-night stay.

After the French Riviera or Cote d’Azur, we had a few hours in Monaco before making our way into Italy to stay in Rapallo so we were near Cinque Terre. After two nights in Rapallo, we went off to Florence for two nights before finally making it to Rome.

I love the inclusions that come with Go Ahead’s tours! They include quite a bit in their rate like:

• Full-time Tour Director
• Hotels with breakfast
• Local tours of cities
• A few group dinners (multi-course and served with wine, one of my favorite meals on the whole trip was one of these group dinners)
• Entry to select attractions (on our tour: Sagrada Familia, Carcassonne, the Arena of Nimes, Villa & Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild, Pont du Gard, and the Coliseum)

Pace of Go Ahead’s tours

This was a fast-paced tour, but we went into that expecting it. If you’re really looking to explore a city, this itinerary might not be the best for you and they do offer tours that spend more time in dedicated cities. I wanted to to see a ton of places, which is why we picked a fast-paced tour that covered a lot of ground.

Overall, I think the pace was good and there was a balance of days that were go, go, go and days that were more relaxed and you could spend how you pleased. There was also a bit of downtime as we drove to our next location or back to our hotel after a day’s excursion.

Go Ahead Tours’ excursions

We really enjoyed many of the excursions offered on our European group tour! I think we booked almost all of the optional excursions and I’m glad we did. While the excursions do cut into your free time, I like to look at as we’re getting to see even more of the region while we’re there and why not spend a morning going out to another city we may not have the opportunity to get to again?

The excursions on Go Ahead are a bit pricier than similar excursions through Ultimate Break, but not outrageous. The excursions we booked on our tour included:

Casa Mila (La Pedrera) and Park Guell – Barcelona

This tour was in the afternoon after our guided tour of the city with a local guide. We started at La Pedrera, an apartment complex redone by Gaudi. It was cool getting up-close to his work and learning about the influences behind his designs and seeing into the past.

I thought I knew what to expect at Park Guell but I was still blown away by the tiny details and design of this park and intended residential complex. Unfortunately, part of the main part of the park (read where everyone takes that iconic Barcelona shot) was closed due to repairs so it was a bit more crowded than I think it normally would be.

It was still cool checking out the benches, seeing the unique buildings from above, and taking a few photos ourselves. I’d guess we had about an hour in the park to walk around, learn more about its design, and just enjoy some time wandering around on our own.

Flamenco dinner show – Barcelona

This was an amazing experience that I think we’d definitely book again if we go back to Barcelona with Go Ahead. The evening started with a buffet dinner, where everything was excellent, and sangria and wine at the table. I wished we hadn’t had some late tapas and had come a bit more hungry as the food was so good. Then, we moved into an intimate theater for the show where we were greeted with some cava.

The flamenco performance was incredible and very moving. You see how passionate the performers are and how much of themselves they give to their dance. The guitar players were just as talented as the dancers and it made for an unforgettable live entertainment performance in Barcelona.

St-Paul-de-Vence – Provence (hotel in Cannes)

After exploring Nice, we took off to visit Saint-Paul-de-Vence and explore its little alleyways, shops (purchased a great bottle of French wine), and enjoy a three-course dinner.

We popped into a shop to sample some tapenade and then our dinner included pastis – an interesting aperitif. The dinner was good and the servers were good about making sure our wine glasses were always full. It was a fun excursion to a cute town, making for a fun evening getaway. The pace was very relaxed and if I had a bigger travel budget I probably would have gone into the many art galleries that were full of amazing pieces.

San Gimignano and winery tour – Florence

This was another favorite excursion where we got to explore the town of San Gimignano which was fun and we even had some great gelato while there. Afterward, we went to Torciano Winery for some wine tasting and a lasagna lunch (with their truffle oil drizzled on top)! On my last group tour, I did a visit to a winery which was awesome and this one was right up there in quality. We sampled a white, several reds, and a decadent dessert wine. We’re looking forward to when our shipment from the winery arrives 🙂

I enjoyed all the excursions we did but I’d say our top picks were the flamenco show and the day in San Gimignano.

Price of Go Ahead Tours

We booked our tour with a Columbus Day sale and got $250 off our tour and with our Rome extension, excursions, and airport transfers, it came out to almost $7,500 or $266 per person per day. I think the value for the tour is excellent when you take into account all that’s included and not having to organize some of the finer details of the trip.

Overall, we had an excellent time on our tour with Go Ahead and are already looking at trips for future travel, perhaps somewhere a bit cooler and known for their beer for Rick (ahem, Germany, ahem). We had quite the group of people, from teens to older adults, and it’s always fun to get to know people on tours like these where travel brings you together and I’m sure the next group we get paired with will be just as fun as this group.

Create your own Go Ahead account and start browsing their amazing tours to find the right one for your next getaway to Europe, Asia, Africa, or anywhere in the world.

Hey, I'm Stephanie! I'm a copywriter living in beautiful Denver with my husband Rick, and our dog Rocco. I love traveling, writing, reading, and being outside as much as possible - unless I'm on the couch binge watching Stranger Things with a glass of wine! Thanks for reading and being a part of the adventure with Back to the Passport! ❤️

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Hi, Stephanie,

I read your review right after I’d read several negative reviews of Go ahead tours. So now I’m confused. The negative ones were such that I was deciding to ditch my plans for a tour to Oaxaca.

Can you help me out? Did the company know, for instance, that you are a travel blogger? Why is there such a dramatic difference?

I’ve been home bound for way too long and itch to get going again but how do I know what to believe. Any comments?

They did not know I was a travel blogger and I’ve done several tours with EF, both their Ultimate Break (formerly College Break), and Go Ahead. I don’t know what the negative reviews were pointing out, but our experience with them was good and we’ll be doing two tours with them in 2023, that we’ll be sure to recap and review on the blog. I do not get compensated for these reviews.

Our experience with Go Ahead was good and they were flexible in accommodating some changes to our itinerary, such as us doing London on our own and then meeting the group in Barcelona.

Again since I don’t know what the specific negative comments were talking about it’s hard to say why there’s a dramatic difference but I do know that group tours aren’t for every type of traveler. We like doing them when we’re doing multiple cities or countries as we like not having to worry about booking transportation between all of these cities. You are also on the group’s schedule, minus free days, which I know can also be frustrating for some travelers. We didn’t mind as the itinerary included things we wanted to see anyway and then we always had some free time in each place to explore on our own. So, if you prefer no structure or want a lot of flexibility with your travel plans, Go Ahead might not be right for you. But if you want a guided tour and the smaller details taken care of, then I’d recommend them.

I traveled with Go Ahead in Oct 2018 Venice, Florence, Rome, and had a great experience. Finally going again this month to Barcelona, Southern France, and the Italian Riviera.

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Go ahead tours reviews & ratings, will refuse to refund.

I made a reservation last Thursday (11/16/2023) for a trip to Iceland from 12/02/2023-12/07/2023 and then I was told that I can’t have my refund back. When I called...

Greedy Unethical Company Keeps Your Money When They Cancel Trips

Stay Away - Class Action lawsuit for ripping off children

This greedy and unethical company is being sued for keeping money from school children and their parents after the company canceled trips due to Coronavirus. They ...

Lousy Customer Service

Wouldn't Refund Full Payment of Tour They Cancelled

Our trip was to be in May 2020 and was cancelled by Go Ahead due to the Coronavirus after we had paid the full cost of the trip for two. When contacted about a refu...

Amazing trip of a lifetime!

My husband and I went on this tour for our five year anniversary. It was both of our first trips to Europe and it was WONDERFUL! Our tour guide, Alessandra, was fant...

By far the BEST Trip EVER

WOW. That’s the best word to summarize this tour. 1st class everything, from the private chauffeur upon arrival to the 5 star hotels to the fancy restaurants, but th...

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Go ahead quick facts.

Average Tour Price:   $2,000-$4,000

The world’s largest private education travel company, Go Ahead tours are designed for curious, adventurous travelers . Their itineraries balance planned activities and free time to quench your curiosity and specific interests.

What Makes Go Ahead Stand Out?

• Dedicated tour directors
• Local guides
• Flexibility

Go Ahead has dedicated tour directors that you can trust to help you have the best travel experience. They have years of experience and regional knowledge of culture and history that they are eager to share. These travel directors will be with you every step of the way, a friend to show you around one of their favorite destinations. Sit back and enjoy your trip, they’ll handle all the logistics.

Local guides are also a big part of Go Ahead. These guides will join you and your tour director to provide an even deeper knowledge of the region. They will help immerse you in cities, rustic villages, countrysides and cultural hot spots. Go ahead wants the right people to help you learn and explore the world.

Go Ahead tours are designed to be authentic, providing unique local experiences, and a certain amount of flexibility for travelers who like some independence during the tour. Typically, tours are run in small groups with a max of 38, which means your small group may not always be extemely intimate as 38 is still a lot of people.

Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Go Ahead?

• Cultural enthusiasts
• Adventure travelers
• Wildlife lovers

Go Ahead travelers love sightseeing but they greatly enjoy traveling off the beaten path. These travelers are curious about the world and are eager to learn about the local culture , cuisine and people. Go Ahead is perfect for the traveler who wants to really get to the heart of a destination.

Adventure is a big part of curiosity. Go Ahead travelers aren’t afraid to venture off a typical tourist sightseeing plan. They enjoy the freedom to explore on their own as well as picking the brain of their local guides to learn incite into the cities, rustic villages and countrysides they are visiting. These travelers enjoy seeing the destination through cultural immersion and active experiences.

Witnessing wildlife is a big part of Go Ahead tours. Travelers will get the opportunity to witness and learn about the luscious natural landscapes and the creatures that inhabit it. Seeing the Big Five and going on a safari through the plains of Africa is on the bucket lists of Go Ahead travelers.

Top Destinations

Go Ahead tours send travelers all over the world with trips going to Europe , US , Canada , Central America , Africa , Australia , New Zealand , Middle East , Asia and Antarctica .

Go Ahead Travel Style

Go Ahead is greatly focused on personalization and small group experiences . Each traveler will get the opportunity to personalize their trips when their itineraries are being crafted. There are additional excursions, tour extensions and any number of days that travelers can add to their trip.

Groups remain small, capped at 14 to 38 travelers. This small group experience allows travelers to really immerse themselves in the culture of a destination. Their experiences will be intimate both with their local guides and the local people.

Hotels are selected based on your comfort desires and location. You can rest assured that you’ll be staying in a safe, comfortable accommodation as the Go Ahead team personally goes to each property on the ground. 

Go Ahead, due to their relationship with EF network, are able to offer a wide range of flight options. Once in your destination, they will also handle all internal travel from motor coaches to additional flights. Go Ahead takes care of all the stressful logistics so you don’t have to.

Why Go Ahead?

If you are eager to explore and learn about the world through cultural immersion , wildlife watching and active experiences, Go Ahead is for you. No matter your luxury level whether it be high luxur y or budget or what your interests are, Go Ahead can help personalize your experience to create the perfect trip for you.

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About the company.

We're a company of passionate adventurers dedicated to creating the best journey for every traveler. As a proud part of EF Education First, we draw on 50 years of expertise to continue to add meaningful travel experiences to our portfolio of more than 100 tours.  

GLOBAL EXPERTISE

Thanks to the global EF network, we have offices all over the world—you can count on expert support everywhere you go. And since we help thousands of people see the world each year, we’re able to negotiate the best rates with our partners.

A COMMITMENT TO QUALITY

Our team carefully considers the details of every itinerary and reads every review we receive to ensure that we're offering you the best possible travel experience. Our tour groups are always capped at between 14 to 35 travelers—well below the industry average.

UNMATCHED SERVICE

Your own expertly trained Tour Consultant will help with every step of the planning process. Then, once you’re on tour, your Tour Director will give you an inside look at all the best sights and hidden local favorites. Plus, you can reach us at any time on our 24/7 support line.

Go Ahead Tours Trips & Specials

Denali National Park & Wild Alaska

New Years in Australia & New Zealand

Portugal, Spain & Morocco

Discover Brazil: Rio de Janeiro to the Amazon Rainforest

India: The Golden Triangle to Kerala

New Zealand: Untamed Landscapes

A Week in Ireland: St. Patrick's Day

Highlights of Northern Europe: London to Copenhagen

See here for last minute special Travel deals

Starting on Black Friday, all European tours will be up to $600 off*! While the sale goes through Sunday, only the early birds will catch the worm Friday morning doorbusters ( 6AM-10AM  local time): $75 towards an excursion* or $125 off a tour extension*. (*Per Person.)  For those who missed out on the Black Friday event, Cyber  Monday  will offer up to $650 off on all tours!

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top Go Ahead Tours Trip Categories

Go ahead tours company ranking by category, similar companies.

Better Business Bureau A+ - 4.51 out of 5 stars - 8 reviews 

Associations

United states tour operators association.

USTOA is a nonprofit professional association representing the tour operator industry.Its members are made up of companies who provide services worldwide but who conduct business in the U.S.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

12 Under-The-Radar Tour Destinations For 2023, According To Experts

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Guided Tours
• Sightseeing

TravelAwaits reached out to major tour operators to see which underrated tour destinations should be on our radar for next year.

According to experts from G Adventures , Tauck , Intrepid Travel , EF Go Ahead Tours , and Trafalgar , here are the under-the-radar destinations folks need to put on their travel list for 2023.

1. Bhutan, South Asia

“Bhutan is slated to open the historic Trans Bhutan Trail later this year after a 60-year hiatus. This small, breathtaking country offers beautiful landscapes and hikes, charming local villages, and spirituality as the birthplace of the Gross National Happiness concept. Bhutan is an unforgettable, under-the-radar adventure for 2023.” — Marina Goodwin, senior manager of PR & Brand Partnerships, EF Go Ahead Tours

2. The Azores, Portugal

“ The Azores is such a hidden gem for U.S. travelers. It’s not crowded, easy to get to, as spectacular as Iceland in terms of landscape, and it’s warmer. It has some of the best easier hikes possible and some of the most magnificent vistas you can imagine. The food is awesome, the people are super friendly, and the cost is affordable. It should be on everyone’s must-do list for 2023–2024.” — Yves Marceau, VP of Product, G Adventures

For more on the Azores:

• 8 Reasons To Visit The Azores Region In Portugal
• I Tried Ocean Kayaking In The Azores, Here’s How It Went

Plan your escape! Reserve your spot at the best hotels São Miguel Azores can provide.

3. Tenerife, Spain

“Another destination that everyone should consider — and also not visited much by Americans — is Tenerife . The climate in the winter is like Florida. United now has a direct flight from New York, but it is also easily accessed via London, Madrid, Paris, and Amsterdam. The cost is low and the island is spectacular. Hiking is accessible to most people, and the food and wine are world class.” — Marceau, G Adventures

Read more about Tenerife and the Canary Islands:

• My 3 Favorite Experiences On This Lesser-Known European Tropical Island
• 9 Things To Know Before Visiting The Canary Islands
• 10 Best Experiences On The Canary Islands

“For those looking to explore a place in a new way, our sailing product in Croatia and Greece fits the bill. Each night, your small sailing group will dock in the center of town on a different island or picture-perfect village/town. You have dinner on shore, walk ancient towns during the day, and spend downtime swimming or relaxing on deck. I was skeptical about a sailing adventure until I did my first one (I’m not a sailor), but I got hooked. It is such a great way to disconnect while still being able to see and experience a variety of places in a unique way.” — Marceau, G Adventures

Read more about lovely Croatia:

• 6 Under-The-Radar Places To Visit In Croatia
• 7 Must-See Places On Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast
• 8 Can’t-Miss Ways To Experience Croatia On The Water

5. Sorrento, Italy

“For those not into hiking or not into sailing: Try living like a local in Italy or Croatia . It is a mind-opening, in-depth experience. Travelers stay in one place (so you can actually unpack those bags!) but discover the region in much more depth. The hosts make travelers feel as if they are visiting long-time friends, as they share their homes, neighborhoods, and culture with travelers. Accommodations are comfortable and have private baths, so while it’s not a homestay, it still feels very intimate and immersive. These trips are also short enough that if you want you can add a few days independently in the gateway arrival city.” — Marceau, G Adventures

Read more about living like a local in Italy:

• 7 Essential Tips For Planning A Beautiful Road Trip Through Italy
• 10 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Italy

“Egypt, Jordan, and Israel were all gaining in popularity prior to Covid, and with so many people returning to Europe, it’s really a great time to experience these amazing destinations before they’re back on top of everyone’s wish list.” Jeremy Palmer, CEO of Tauck

Egyptian attractions, such as the Valley of the Kings, give visitors a chance to walk through history — but Egypt isn’t just for history buffs. This once-in-a-lifetime destination is also for foodies, architecture aficionados, culture lovers, photographers, and adventure travelers. Here are 7 Reasons To Put Egypt On Your Bucket List .

Pair a visit to Egypt with a trip to Jordan on Tauck’s Jordan & Egypt: Petra to the Pyramids . Enjoy a three-night Nile River cruise and a 4×4 adventure across the lunar landscapes of Wadi Rum . Of course, no visit to Jordan is complete without a peek at Petra and a soak in the Dead Sea. Tauck also lets you pair a Jordan tour with a visit to Israel.

Take a Tauck tour of biblical proportions. The two-week Israel and Jordan tour explores the “civilizations, cultures, history, traditions, religions, and the arts” of the Sea of Galilee, Petra, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv.

“Travelers are booking Intrepid’s most popular destinations such as Morocco, Egypt, Ecuador, Turkey and Peru, but we’ve also seen big sales in trending destinations like Antarctica, Iceland, Costa Rica, and Everest Base Camp.” Matt Berna, president of Intrepid Travel, North America

9. Antarctica

If icebergs and penguins are your thing, check the southernmost continent off your bucket list and witness the icy wilderness of the Great White Continent on an Intrepid Travel tour of Antarctica .

10. Iceland

Home to icebergs and glaciers, geysers and other geothermal wonders, Iceland is chock full of natural beauty. Intrepid Travel offers several ways to experience Iceland . If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the northern lights !

11. Costa Rica

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or lazing by the beach, Costa Rica is a stunning Central American vacation destination. Here, you can find an incredible Cloud Forest , beautiful national parks , unique birds , and other incredible wildlife . Costa Rican Intrepid Travel tours take visitors from the jungle to the coast.

12. Everest Base Camp

Boasting spectacular scenery, Intrepid Travel’s trekking tour of Everest Base Camp is among the most dramatic and picturesque in the Himalayas. The only catch? You have to be between 18-29 years old for this adventure.

Related Reading:

• 17 Most Popular Tour Destinations To Visit In 2023, According To Experts
• 15 Lesser-Known Towns Around The World Our Writers Love
• 9 Best Places To Travel In 2022 According To Experts

Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. After moving from Texas, she and her husband rambled about the Midwest in a camper for a couple of years before finally settling on 35 acres in their home state of Kentucky. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake.

EF Go Ahead Tours Review 2024: Are their guided tours worth it?

EF Go Ahead Tours is a world-leading guided tour company offering a comprehensive travel package with local guides and authentic travel experiences. You've likely heard of them before, but are they really worth it? What do they offer, and how do they stack up to other guided tours?

Guided tours are a great way to travel, make new friends, and enjoy new experiences without the hassle of planning the logistics of the trip. 

While guided tour companies boast of convenience, they tend to fall short when it comes to flexibility and customization. Hence, many travelers resort to planning their trips by themselves using helpful apps like  Pilot .

But, if you still prefer a guided tour with some level of flexibility, EF Go Ahead Tours is definitely a choice to consider. 

EF Go Ahead Tours is one of the world's largest tour companies that host small group tours with unique, authentic experiences. A great benefit of joining an EF Go Ahead Tour is that they allow travelers the benefits of hosting a free private tour with larger groups. 

However, are the experiences they're offering for you? What are the pros and cons? Here's our review of EF Go Ahead Tours! 

What is EF Go Ahead Tours?

EF Go Ahead Tours  is a brand under the EF Tours group that offers both guided and fully customizable tours to destinations worldwide. It caters to young and older travelers, admitting anyone from age six and above (under-age travelers accompanied by adults). The number of travelers in each group is capped at 14-38, and small group tours only admit 10-22 people. 

EF Go Ahead Tours aims to provide you with meaningful tours with flexibility and personalization. It also promotes responsible travel by supporting local communities and adopting sustainable practices.

EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app helps you easily manage your bookings and view tour details. It is available for both Android and iOS devices. 

What does EF Go Ahead Tours offer?

• Tour directors and local guides:  A tour director is assigned for each group to be in charge of all logistics of the trip. They will accompany you throughout, sharing insider knowledge and background information about places you visit.
• Accommodation:  3-4 star hotels that provide comfortable amenities while being located in close proximity to the city. 
• Meals:  Breakfast and some other meals are included in the pricing. Primarily, they focus on local food and beverage specialties. They will arrange meals meeting your dietary requirements if necessary.
• Transportation:  Transport between airport and hotels and other transportation required during the trip are included in the package. While flights are not included, you can get EF Go Ahead Tours to arrange them for you at an additional cost. 

How does EF Go Ahead Tours work?

You can browse for tours by  Destination  or  Travel Styles  on the website. Travel styles are further categorized as  Trip Type, Interests, Seasonal and Special Events , and  With Your Own Group . 

For example, all the related tours will appear if we pick Adventure Tours under travel styles. You can filter the results further by destination, dates, duration, price, and travel style. 

Check out its details, trip highlights, prices, reviews, etc. There's a list of FAQs below related to the trip and other similar tours for you to compare and choose from. 

What destinations does EF Go Ahead Tours cover?

EF Go Ahead Tours covers many of the popular destinations worldwide. Here's a list of where EF Go Ahead Tours covers:

• Europe:  Ireland, Italy, Greece, Iceland, England, France, and Germany 
• The Americas:  United States, Canada, Costa Rica, Peru, Ecuador, and Belize 
• Africa & Middle East:  Egypt, Kenya, Israel, South Africa, Turkey, and United Arab Emirates
• Australia & Asia:  Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, India, and Thailand

Benefits of EF Go Ahead Tours

• Worry-free guarantee

If you cancel the booking within 60 days from the reservation date, you are entitled to a full refund. EF Go Ahead Tours also allows you to change the date of tour or destination up until your final payment day. It helps you book with confidence knowing there's ample time to make changes. 

In addition to covering many destinations worldwide, the tour company also offers a diverse range of tours. Group trips for solo travelers provide ample privacy while facilitating socialization. In addition, there are cruise tours, rail tours, food & wine tours, battlefield tours, winter tours, and many more!

• Fewer people 

The worrisome factor about large group tours is they can seem too crowded and noisy to have a quality experience. There's also less opportunity to get to know other travelers better. In this case, small group tours offer a more intimate travel experience. Guides can give individual attention and advice easily. Overall, it makes the trip more enjoyable and memorable. 

• Flexibility 

If you like to travel with friends but don't have the liberty to plan, get EF Go Ahead Tours to plan one for you. You can explain your requirements and get a whole new itinerary done or choose one they offer. Invite your friends and/or family, choose your travel dates, and enjoy. There's also the option of organizing faith-based tours!

Drawbacks of EF Go Ahead Tours

• Increase the number of tours 

While there's a variety of tours, different trip options under each category are quite limited compared to other guided tour companies like  G Adventures  or  Contiki . For example, there's only one tour option for India. They can also add more countries to their list of destinations. 

• Improve refund and cancellation issues

Customers had faced refund and cancellation issues for scheduled or booked tours during the pandemic. There were complaints of EF Go Ahead Tours not refunding the money as per its cancellation policy. But, it's a common problem that many tour companies dealt with their customers following the Covid outbreak. We hope they are resolved now. 

EF Go Ahead Tours vs. EF Ultimate Break

The most significant similarity between EF Go Ahead Tours and EF Ultimate Break is that they are managed by EF Education First Tours. This means that you'll most likely be getting a similar refund, cancellation, and customer service policies between the two tours.

EF Go Ahead Tours identifies itself as the 'older sibling' of EF Ultimate Break. Ultimate Break Tours is geared towards college students and folks aged 18-29, while Go Ahead Tours admits anyone 6 and above. So, the tours offered also tend to be different from each other. 

EF Go Ahead Tours has a wide variety of tours catering to all age ranges. It also provides both private and group tours. EF Ultimate Break only offers group tours and are tailored to suit youth's preferences. 

Read our  review of EF Ultimate Break  to learn more!

Is EF Go Ahead Tours worth it?

Yes! We came across great GoAheadTours reviews online about the unique and immersive experience EF Go Ahead Tours offers. Go Ahead tours are a great way to travel if you prefer to join a guided tour.

Like  Flash Pack , it's an excellent choice for older travelers looking for trips that involve activities beyond partying and drinking. Overall, the tours are ideal for anyone, really. 

Our Rating: 4.5/5

• Variety of tours
• Smaller groups 
• A limited number of tours 
• Refund and cancellation issues

Plan your own adventure!

Guided tours are great, but being able to plan your trip is even better! You get to choose your own stay, tailor your travel itinerary, and maximize your time so that none gets wasted.

Traditionally, planning a trip requires lots of coordination and effort, especially when traveling with friends. Let Pilot solve that problem and help you easily plan your next adventure!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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• Celebrity Life

'We are delighted': King Charles and Queen Camilla's full Australian royal tour itinerary revealed with stops in Canberra, Sydney

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Buckingham Palace have unveiled the full itinerary for King Charles and Queen Camilla’s Australia tour next month.

King Charles and Queen Camilla’s long-awaited royal tour of Australia will go ahead next month but their majesties will only stop in Sydney and Canberra during the visit.

Their majesties will arrive in Australia on October 18 and will depart the country on October 23 en route to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa.

In Canberra, their majesties will be welcomed to Parliament House by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The King and Queen will attend a reception for political and community leaders, and Australians who have excelled in the fields of health, arts, culture and sport.

Charles and Camilla will pay their respects at the Australian War Memorial and visit the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

At the Botanic Gardens, the royals will meet with staff and volunteers to discuss the global impacts of climate change.

The King will visit the CSIRO solo where scientists will share their work on dealing with the impact of bushfires in Australia, while The Queen will participate in a discussion on family and domestic violence and meet representatives from GIVIT.

In Sydney, the King and Queen will conduct a Fleet Review of the Royal Australian Navy and attend a community BBQ celebrating Australia’s cultural diversity and showcasing quality produce from across New South Wales.

The King will have the opportunity to learn about the ground-breaking cancer research led by Australians of the Year, Professor Georgina Long AO and Professor Richard Scolyer AO.

He will also meet Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives and groups to learn about their work in supporting local community and strengthening culture.

Meanwhile, the Queen will visit a library and meet children participating in a Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition workshop.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who personally identifies as a republican, said the visit would be an opportunity to “showcase the best of Australia”.

“I welcome Buckingham Palace’s statement announcing the visit,” the Prime Minister said in a statement to the media.

“The Royal Visit is an opportunity to showcase the best of Australia – our rich culture, our sense of community, and contributions to science, research and global progress.

“His Majesty first visited Australia in 1966 and has a strong personal affection for our nation. We are delighted that His Majesty is recovering well and has made visiting Australia once again a priority.

“Australians look forward to welcoming The King and Queen back to Australia in October and highlighting the best of the Australian spirit.”

The official itinerary, which was announced to the media by the Prime Minister’s office on Tuesday afternoon, has a smaller than expected schedule of engagements in light of the King’s health.

The visit will mark the first royal tour of Australia by a reigning monarch since Queen Elizabeth II, who visited Canberra, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth in 2011, and the first from a new monarch since 1954.

Charles and Camilla last visited Australia in 2018 as Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, respectively, to open the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.

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Stassi Schroeder Shares Advice for 'Taking the Pressure Off' in New Book (Exclusive)

"I’m writing this book to put an end to all the drama I bring to my own life" writes the the 'Vanderpump Rules' alum

Gallery Books; Courtesy of Afrik Armando

Stassi Schroeder is high-key tired.

The mom of two and former Vanderpump Rules star, 36, wrote her new book  You Can't Have It All , as "a mom, as a wife, as someone who wants to be all things," as it lays out in some of the first pages. "I’m writing this book to put an end to all the drama I bring to my own life."

And the book, she's careful to note, is not strictly anti-girlboss, but it is anti-toxicity, anti-burnout and anti-anything that makes women — especially mothers — feel like they're less than worthy. "I love an ambitious woman who goes after everything she wants, plus I’m no stranger to hustle culture and girlbossing myself," Schroeder writes.

"But I do have a question to ask: after the brutal, stressful, chaotic years we have all collectively experienced since the pandemic, is being a boss b--- with all her shit together really the vibe?"

Throughout the book, Schroeder offers her advice for surviving everything the world throws at modern women, especially moms. Here's a sampling of that wisdom.

Gallery Books

It's OK to pump the brakes

"It’s impossible to function at 100 percent in everything we do, so why do we keep putting all this pressure on ourselves?" Schroeder asks, in the book. She points out that lots of her mom friends and other women are realizing like it's about time we took stock and the constant pressure doesn't feel right anymore.

"In this new phase, Stassi 2.0 or 5.0 or whatever, I’m all about taking the pressure off, giving yourself grace and leaning into what makes you happy, without guilt," she writes.

Focus on the small stuff

In You Can't Have It All , Schroeder suggests looking for the little things when you're starting to feel overwhelmed, stressed out or your own Dark Passenger starts to rear its head.

"When life starts to suck, I focus on the things that bring me joy and the things I’m grateful for. That and a bit of self-deprecating humor are my coping mechanisms that keep me sane and happy," she writes. “ 'Having it all' to me means appreciating the things and moments that bring me bits of joy, small things like getting a spray tan or finding out that one of my favorite shows is getting renewed and big things like having the freedom to be unapologetically real and true to myself."

Go ahead, be (a little) delusional

Remember BDE? Schroeder wants readers to lean into it — big delusional energy, that is. Call it whatever you want, but sometimes, over-confidence can be just what you need, especially if you're facing something that scares you. "Basically, you want to exaggerate your sense of self-worth, your power, your confidence, your knowledge," she writes. "And turns out, a little delusion goes a long way."

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Don't play the comparison game

Easier said than done, but what Schroeder knows better than anyone is the lure of comparing yourself to others on social media. But reminding yourself that everyone's online lives aren't real life can be a sanity-saver. "I might be all for some online filtering or wrinkle smoothing, but there is also a glorious freedom that comes with accepting that things are never going to be perfect in your life," she writes. "That doesn’t mean I won’t use a filter to just make it look a little bit shinier. Life is not black-and-white, but it can be greasy."

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Resist Success FOMO

"I often wondered why I suffered from Success FOMO. It’s not to say I wasn’t happy for my peers when good opportunities came to them. I was. But at the same time, I would be overcome by insecurity if the same things weren’t happening for me," Schroeder writes. But she learned a trick from The Skinny Confidential Him & Her podcast with Lauryn and Michael Bosstick that changed her perspective on the green-eyed monster.

Just imagine you have to switch lives with that person: You don't just get the Big Great Thing you're coveting, but also their middle-of-the-night insomnia stressors, their partner (or lack thereof), kids and all of the messy, complicated stuff you don't see. It's a great way to banish the beast.

Courtesy of Afrik Armando

And most of all, don't be afraid to take care of you

Where Shroeder's book gets the most raw and vulnerable is in talking about her mental health, her struggles with self-harm, postpartum depression and not feeling good enough as a person, a parent and a wife. But Schroeder has learned a hard-won lesson she wants everyone else to internalize too: Be yourself. Someone will like it. And there's no substitute for hard work, especially in mental health.

"There is no girlbossing in mental health: it’s about being honest and being real about what you need," she explains. "The thing about failure is, once you get over the pain or insecurity of it all, then you have the freedom to be someone different."

In putting out this book, Schroeder helps to offer readers the empowerment to do the same.

Never miss a story — sign up for  PEOPLE's free daily newsletter  to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer , from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

You Can't Have It All: The Basic B*tch Guide to Taking the Pressure Off by Stassi Schroeder is on sale now, wherever books are sold.

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Iceland tours discovery guide

When it comes to raw, natural landscapes, the Land of Fire and Ice delivers in a big way. But there’s more to this Nordic isle than its waterfalls, geysers, and glaciers—modern cities, Viking tales, and warm locals await on our Iceland tours, too.

September 2024

Showing 1–5 of 5 tours

Iceland: Reykjavík & the Northern Lights

6 days | 8 days with West Iceland & Reykjavík extension

4.5 out of 5 stars

Iceland: The Golden Circle & Ring Road

11 days | 14 days with Norwegian Fjords extension

Stay on vacation? Don’t mind if we do.

Save up to $350 on tours, plus save an extra $50 with code EXT50 on tour extensions for 2025 bookings.†

Landscapes of Wild Iceland

8 days | 10 days with West Iceland & Reykjavik extension

4.9 out of 5 stars

Iceland: Reykjavik & the Golden Circle

6 days | 8 days with West Iceland & Reykjavik extension

4.6 out of 5 stars

Scandinavia: The Capitals & the Fjords

14 days | 17 days with Iceland extension

What to know before you go

POPULATION Roughly 384,000 people call Iceland home. That’s just 10 people per pristine square mile.

CAPITAL Situated on the southwest coast, Reykjavik is home to about a third of Iceland’s citizens. The walkable, welcoming city is also a global leader in sustainability.

CULTURAL QUICK TAKE Many Icelanders believe in, and are extremely respectful of, elves. Locals call them huldufólk, or hidden folk.

WHAT TO GO FOR No matter when you embark on one of our Iceland tours, you’re in for dramatic landscapes, mesmerizing skies, and some of the world’s best lamb and seafood.

Two seasons. Two distinct sides of Iceland.

Iceland dazzles all year round, but winter and summer see the country’s rugged landscape at its frozen and freshest best, respectively. Travel on one of these two beloved Iceland trips for a taste of these seasons’ highlights.

Iceland: Reykjavik & the Northern Lights

Chase the electrifying aurora borealis through inky nighttime skies.

Carpets of cushy moss underfoot. Summer’s 24/7 sun overhead.

Inspiration for your Iceland escape

Not sure when to go or how to spend free time when you get there? Take your cue from our team and travelers.

So, when’s the best time to go to Iceland?

We offer Iceland travel year-round—plus plenty of insight to help you pick the right tour.

10 things you can only do in Iceland in winter

Glacial caves, aurora borealis, and New Year's Eve bonfires are just the tip of the iceberg.

Experiential travel made easy

You dream it. We'll take care of every last detail.

Pick your perfect trip

We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.

Put just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure a spot on one of our group tours when you sign up for AutoPay . Plus, you can pay in interest- free, monthly installments.

Prep your packing list

While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about.

Go far (and get rewarded)

Take off on your big adventure— but why stop there? Every trip you book with us earns rewards that you can use to keep expanding your horizons.

What travelers are saying about our guided Iceland trips

Even more tours to choose from.

To add more of Europe’s distinctive culture, scenery, history, and cuisine to your Iceland travel, check out these itineraries.

A Week in Greece: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini

9 days | 12 days with Rome extension

4.7 out of 5 stars

A Week in Italy: Venice, Florence & Rome

9 days | 11 days with Sorrento Peninsula extension

London, Paris & Rome

11 days | 14 days with Madrid extension

4.8 out of 5 stars

Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland

12 days | 14 days with London extension

The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete

14 days | 16 days with Athens extension

A Week in Ireland: Dublin, Cork & Galway

8 days | 11 days with London extension

A Week in Switzerland, Germany & Austria

9 days | 11 days with Prague extension

Grand Tour of Italy

15 days | 17 days with Rome extension

Travel tips for Iceland trips

Iceland’s stark beauty is breathtaking any time of year, but if you want to see the northern lights, look for Iceland tour packages that depart between September and mid-April. This is when the days are shorter and the nights are at their darkest—perfect conditions for viewing this natural phenomenon. Just remember that seeing the northern lights on tours to Iceland is dependent on a variety of natural factors, including clear skies and high solar activity.

Off-season trips to Iceland are the best time to take a dip in the country’s famous hot pools, most notably the renowned Blue Lagoon. Crowds thin out in late September and October, so you’ll be able to enjoy the geothermal waters without having to contend with the hundreds of visitors who flock to this famous site during peak season.

May through August is a good time to go on guided tours around Iceland if whale watching is on your bucket list. It’s possible to see orcas, minke whales, humpbacks, and more than 20 other species year-round, but June and July are their peak season.

Summertime also marks the summer solstice in Iceland, when the midnight sun lights up evening skies from May until mid-August. If you’re planning a trip to Iceland during the warmer months, just remember that they also coincide with bigger crowds. Top destinations, like the South Coast, Golden Circle, and Blue Lagoon, get the highest number of visitors from June through August.

Iceland’s unspoiled terrain is comprised of an otherworldly mixture of extremes, and these varied landscapes make all guided trips to Iceland unforgettable. Here, surreal stretches of black-sand beaches, glacier-fed waterfalls, geothermal pools, and erupting geysers add to the epic beauty.

One of the top places to visit on all Iceland guided tours is the country’s capital, Reykjavik. This small city is easy to explore on foot. Step inside the iconic Hallgrim’s Church, which is 244 feet tall and can be seen from nearly anywhere in the city. Or, walk along the waterfront to see an abstract sculpture called  The   Sun Voyager , created by Jón Gunnar Árnason. Then, continue on to Höfði House, where you can snap some photos with the sea and mountains as the backdrop.

While Reykjavik is a must-see, more stunning highlights of a trip to Iceland can be found along the Golden Circle, a famous sightseeing route that stretches from Reykjavik to central Iceland. Pass through the UNESCO-protected Thingvellir National Park, a volcanic area that marks the point where two tectonic plates come together. Or, visit the Great Geysir Geothermal Area and stand in awe of Gullfoss, the roaring “Golden Waterfall.”

Beyond the Golden Circle, the beaches of the South Coast and restorative geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon offer more opportunities for exploration on our Iceland escorted tours. Iceland trip packages, like our  Iceland: The Golden Circle & Ring Road  tour, take you to the farthest-flung corners of the country, making it easy to cross hard-to-reach sites off your bucket list.

Icelandic cuisine relies on traditional, locally sourced ingredients from the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains. Here are some authentic dishes you can look forward to while traveling on our Iceland trip packages:

• Icelandic yogurt called skyr. It has a cream-like consistency, little fat, and lots of protein. Icelanders eat it all the time, and you can often find it transformed into a smooth mousse or delicious ice cream for dessert.
• Icelandic lamb, which is considered to be some of the best in the world thanks to the free-roaming sheeps’ healthy, natural diet. Since we get you closer to culture by offering authentic included meals on tour, you’re likely to have an opportunity to try this specialty on all our trips to Iceland.
• Both fresh and dried fish, including herring and cod. In fact, fermented shark is considered an Icelandic specialty, and although it’s rarely eaten anymore, it’s an important part of Iceland’s culinary history. Still, it's a “treat” that should be tried by the very brave on our Iceland tours!
• Rye bread topped with everything from butter and lava salt to smoked salmon and cream cheese.
• Pylsa, Icelandic hot dogs—or more specifically, those from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. This Reykjavik establishment has been serving up franks since 1937, and no tours to Iceland are complete until you’ve tasted one. Try it the way a local would and ask for one with everything: sweet mustard, remoulade, and both raw and fried onions.

No matter which Iceland travel packages fill you with wanderlust, bringing the correct attire for the season is important. If you’re setting off to see the northern lights in the off-season, keep in mind that winters in Iceland are generally cold. Packing a warm coat, hat, gloves, and rainwear will keep you comfortable and dry during outdoor sightseeings and nighttime northern lights excursions.

It’s best to pack clothing made of wool, silk, or polypropylene, which will keep you warmer and drier than cotton. Also, crampons—micro spikes that attach to your shoes to give you better traction on frozen ground—may come in handy during the winter months.

Even summer temperatures in Iceland can be chilly, so packing warm layers will ensure you’re ready for any type of weather. And, no matter when you’re planning a trip to Iceland, bringing the correct footwear is key. Get ready to hit the trails and see all of Iceland’s outdoor wonders by packing a sturdy pair of walking shoes or boots.

If you’re still unsure what to bring on our Iceland tours, not to worry—our Customer Experience Team is always here to answer any additional questions you may have. You can even download our free  mobile app  before you depart so you’ll have all the info you need right in your pocket.

Iceland uses the króna. To stock up on local currency, order some from your bank before you go, or use your debit card at an ATM once you arrive. For tips on using the króna while on a trip to Iceland,  check out our article on currency exchange .

Icelandic is Iceland’s lone official language, but English is widely spoken. Some sources estimate that 98% of Icelanders speak it as a second language!

Thanks to its location in the North Atlantic, Iceland experiences volatile weather, with storms blowing in and out frequently. And due to its geography, the country sees different weather patterns in its various regions. No matter where you go on your Iceland tour, it’s important to prep for cold and rain, so pack accordingly.

5 out of 5 stars

1st-time traveler Rosemarie

I have looked forward to this trip for over a year. I read books, articles in magazines, on the internet, and watched Rick Steve's Iceland Episode. After completing the trip, I... Read more of Fantastic adventure

Traveled in Aug 2024 on Landscapes of Wild Iceland

1st-time traveler Dorrie

The Golden Circle and Ring Road tour was spectacular! Every aspect of the trip exceeded my expectations. It was so well planned and to my liking a full schedule. Our tour guide... Read more of Icelandic Adventure

Traveled in Aug 2024 on Iceland: The Golden Circle & Ring Road

3rd-time traveler Anonymous

Seeing the lava fields, volcanic fissures and craters, geothermal fields is a reminder how nature can be both beautiful and destructive. The landscapes all around, the glacier... Read more of An incredible experience with Nature

1st-time traveler Jim

I’ve been on nine EF tours and this ranks at the top. The country is beautiful with endless waterfalls, unbelievable glaciers, thermal areas, puffins, lava fields, etc. Maria... Read more of The beauty of Iceland

Traveled in Jun 2024 on Landscapes of Wild Iceland

1st-time traveler Irene

Excellent tour with an excellent tour guide. Followed itinerary and was busy from morning until night. Free time to shop and had time to take a Puffin and Glacier excursion that... Read more of Irene and Jean’s Iceland Adventure

Traveled in Jul 2024 on Iceland: The Golden Circle & Ring Road

6th-time traveler Sandra

The land of fire and ice does not disappoint, and for me this EF tour hit the right blend of physical activity and narrated bus tour as we traveled the golden circle and Ring... Read more of Amazing Iceland

4th-time traveler Jennifer

Our tour guide was thoughtful, kind, generous & treated us like independent adults. The food was delicious, if you like lamb & seafood! Traveling in November? Bundle up. The wind... Read more of Magical Iceland

Traveled in Nov 2023 on Iceland: Reykjavik & the Northern Lights

2nd-time traveler Lisa

Planned to come to Iceland in 2020, only to be forced to cancel. This trip was the replacement, and it did not disappoint! We would have missed some important stops had we come on... Read more of Iceland Adventure