Chasing Thrills on a Budget: Finding the Cheapest Adventure Tour Around the World

The call of adventure whispers in your ear, but your wallet whispers back a different tune. Don’t worry, intrepid explorer! You can still have an epic adventure around the world without breaking the bank. Here’s how to find the cheapest adventure tour that fits your budget and ignites your wanderlust:

  1. Define Your “Adventure” and Budget:
  • Adventure Style: Do you dream of scaling mountains, whitewater rafting down rapids, or exploring ancient ruins? Knowing your desired activities narrows down the search. Think about your past travels and what you enjoy the most, and be mindful of what those activities cost you at the time!
  • Budget Reality: Be honest! How much can you realistically afford? Factor in flights, additional expenses like optional excursions, souvenirs, meals out, partying and other spending money beyond the tour itself. As a rule, find your budget then add 20% to 50% for what you didn’t think of!

  1. Explore Tour Aggregators:

Websites like TourRadar (tourradar.com) are your best friend. They aggregate tours from various and many operators, allowing you to compare prices and itineraries side-by-side.

  • Price Filters: Use the “Total Price: Low to High” filter to see the most affordable options first. They also pull in all the tour operators specials to their website so you get the best deals.
  • Reward programs: The price comparison sites often have reward programs where you can get extra discounts and earn virtual money when you start booking more trips through them.
  • Destination & Activity Filters: Narrow your search by region, specific adventure activity, or tour duration.
  • Deal Alerts: Sign up for tour deal notifications to find last-minute steals or shoulder season discounts.
  • Special Promotions: Like many websites, you can get some amazing deals for Black Friday, Halloween, January sales, summer sales, or just any silly reason to have a sale, you are always the winner!
  1. Dive Deep into Tour Operator Websites:

Now that you have a shortlist, delve deeper into the tour operator websites like G Adventures as an example.

  • Itinerary Details: Scrutinize what’s included. Does the cheaper price mean fewer meals or less comfortable accommodations? There are different standards of accommodation and transport so make sure you understand what you are getting!
  • Review the Reviews: Read traveller reviews on the tour operator’s website or independent platforms like TripAdvisor to get an honest feel for the experience.

Hidden Costs: Look for details about additional expenses like park entrance fees or optional activities.


  1. Beyond the Big Names:

While established operators are reliable, smaller, local companies can offer hidden gems at a lower price. Here’s how to find them:

  • Destination-Specific Research: Search online for tour operators within your chosen region.
  • Travel Blogs & Forums: See what adventurous bloggers recommend and explore online forums where travellers share local tour experiences.
  • Contact Local Hostels: Hostels often have partnerships with local adventure companies or can point you in the right direction.
  • Comparison Sites: Often the comparison sites list the names of the operators they are selling, Google them directly and you might find better deals with them directly. One downside is you will need to transfer money to them internationally which can be confusing, costly, and you might never see it again! Be smart and think carefully before you do it.
  1. Consider Alternative Travel Styles:

Sometimes, skipping the tour altogether can be cheaper. Here are some options:

  • Backpacking: This isn’t for everyone, but it offers the ultimate adventure on a budget. Research destinations, book hostels, and plan your own itinerary.
  • Work Exchange Programs: Trade your skills for accommodation and sometimes even travel opportunities through platforms like Workaway (workaway.info) or Worldpackers (worldpackers.com)
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Combine adventure with giving back by volunteering abroad through organizations like WWOOF or Global Citizen. Do make sure that you are not feeding unscrupulous people exploiting the local people they are pretending to help.

Price Comparison Example:

Let’s say you’re set on a 10-day backpacking adventure in Southeast Asia. Here’s a sample comparison:

  • Tour Operator A: G Adventures – 10-day Thailand Jungle Trek for $1,500 (includes all meals, accommodation, guide)
  • Tour Operator B: Local Thai Company – 10-day Northern Thailand Adventure for $1,200 (includes some meals, basic accommodation, guide)
  • Backpacking: Independent Travel – $800 (hostels, local transportation, street food)

Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best fit. Balance price with comfort level, activities offered, and safety considerations.

Bonus Tip: Consider travelling during the shoulder season (between peak and off-season) for lower flight and tour prices. Check flight prices are affordable before looking for a tour.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect adventure tour that ignites your spirit without setting your wallet on fire. Happy travels!