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Climb Corcovado and admire Rio de Janeiro beneath you

The statue of Christ the Redeemer is one of the most famous attractions of Rio de Janeiro. Get up-close-and-personal with this Brazilian icon by climbing up its famous mountain, Mount Corcovado. Named “hunchback” in Portuguese for its curved peak, this 710-metre mountain is located in the middle of the Tijuca National Park. Hike through its jungle to see local monkeys swinging from trees, before emerging above the foliage. At the peak, not only will you be able to see the grandeur of this mammoth statue, but also admire the beauty of the city of Rio beneath you. Snap a selfie to capture one of the most iconic Brazilian vistas at the top of Mount Corcovado.

Immerse yourself in the wild Rio Carnival

One of Brazil’s biggest draw cards for tourists and locals alike, experiencing the Rio Carnival should be one of the key activities on your Brazilian adventure. Held every year to mark the beginning of the Catholic Lenten Season, the Rio Carnival is a five-day festa that culminates on Shrove Tuesday. While this festival is celebrated all over Brazil – and all over the world – no one throws a bigger party than Rio de Janeiro. Immerse yourself in this city during its liveliest period to experience street parades, food trucks, samba dancing and brightly-colored costumes. Join along with the locals and party all weekend long at the Rio Carnival.

Explore the historic architecture within Downtown São Paulo

For lovers of architecture and design, you’ll fall in love with the streets of São Paulo. This bustling city is jam-packed with history, and one of the best ways to uncover it is by exploring some of its most famous buildings. Start off in downtown São Paulo, where you’ll discover colonial buildings decorated with taipa de pilão, a traditional material made up of clay, sand, grass and animal blood. These old-school buildings are juxtaposed with finely-decorated neoclassical ones, alongside those with more-modern Art Noveau and Art Deco styles. Next, visit some of the iconic modernist structures in the city, including São Paulo’s brutalist school, and architect Oscar Niemeyer’s Edifico Copan and the Latin American Memorial.

Go on a helicopter ride above Iguaçu Falls

One of the most impressive natural wonders of Brazil, you’ll want to spend some time exploring the incredible Iguaçu Falls. Home to almost 300 separate waterfalls, these massive falls reach heights of up to 100 metres. Spreading out between Brazil and Argentina, the Iguaçu Falls act as a natural border between these two Amazonian nations. The best way to see this natural beauty? From above. Jump into a helicopter for an amazing aerial tour of the Iguaçu Falls. From up in the air, you’ll get a proper grip on the size and scope of this massive body of water. Spend 10 minutes ducking and weaving around the falls for breath-taking views and one thrilling ride.

Soak up the colorful culture of Fortaleza

Fortaleza is a highlight of the Northeastern part of Brazil. Not only is it one of the biggest cities in the country, it’s also one of the most beautiful, thanks to its seaside location. Stretching 20 kilometres up the coast, Fortaleza is famous for its fishing villages, rolling sand dunes and Brazilian nightlife. Explore the ins-and-outs of this colorful city beginning in Centro, Fortaleza’s oldest district. This lively area is bustling with small boutiques and street vendors. Follow your feet east towards Praia de Iracema, a tightly-packed nightlife, restaurant and accommodation district, followed by the beaches of Meireles and the restaurants of Varjota. Teeter between working on your tan and filling your belly in sunny Fortaleza.

Things to do in Brazil

Rio carnival.

One of the most one most famous festivals in the world, the Rio Carnival should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Held for five days leading up to Ash Wednesday every year, Carnival is Rio de Janeiro’s craziest party. Come down to enjoy street parades, samba dancing, traditional costumes and lots of alcohol during the city’s liveliest period.

Festa do Peão

Translating to ‘Cowboy Festival’ in English, Festa do Peão has become one of Brazil’s most popular festivals. Held in different cities across the country, including Maraba, Uberaba and Barretos, this festival is features rodeos, bull riding and country music. The largest Cowboy Festival is held in São Paulo every August.

Celebration of Yemanja

Held at the beginning of February every year in the southern city of Salvador, the Celebration of Yemanja pays homage to the Goddess of the Sea. This annual event sees locals throw gifts for the goddess into the sea, including flowers, jewelry and perfume. The largest celebration takes place along Praia Vermelha, which culminates with a massive street party.

Festa Junina

Dedicated to John the Baptist, Festa Junina is a month-long celebration of rural life in Brazil. Occuring in cities and towns all over Brazil, this festival sees locals wearing checkered shirts, straw hats and hand-painted freckles. Square dancing, rural foods and mulled cachaça and wine are also highlights of this fun festival.

Festival de Cachaça

Drinks & Food

Held in the colonial town of Paraty, just south of Rio de Janeiro, the annual Festival de Cachaça is dedicated to cachaça; the national liquor made from sugar cane. Happening every year over a long weekend in August, get down to the Festival de Cachaça to savour this Brazilian liquor, as well as musical performances, amazing food and local handicrafts.

Top 5 Festivals in Brazil

As the biggest country of Latin America, there’s always a party happening in vivacious Brazil. From the craziness of Carnival to the celebration of rural life, the Brazilian calendar is littered with amazing festivals. Here are our picks for the top five Brazilian festivals to check out.

Pinacoteca do Estado de São Paulo

One of the most important museums in Brazil, the Pinacoteca do Estado de São Paulo is the oldest museum in São Paulo. Located within a beautiful historic building in São Paulo, the Pina not only has one of the largest collections of 19th century Brazilian paintings and modernist art, but it also hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

São Paulo Museum of Art

If you find yourself in Avenida Paulista, the business hub of São Paulo, you won’t be able to miss the São Paulo Museum of Art. This museum’s massive art collection is houses in a large red, box-like structure that balances on large pillars. An amazing example of modernist architecture, this museum contains the most important collection of Western art in Latin America.

Museum of Tomorrow

Created just before the 2016 Summer Olympics, the Museum of Tomorrow has become one of Rio de Janeiro’s most-visited attractions. Housed in a futuristic building that looks like something straight out of a sci-fi, this interactive science museum explores sustainability and climate change, and predicts future scenarios of our planet based on environmental, social and economic implications.

Museu Imperial

Located in Petrópolis in Rio de Janeiro, Museu Imperial – or the Imperial Museum – is a former palace of the Brazilian Emperor D. Pedro II. This beautiful neoclassical building is now a museum that houses important pieces and artefacts of the former monarchy. Get glimpse into the lives of Brazilian royalty through exploring the Living and State Rooms of the nation’s former rulers.

Instituto Ricardo Brennand

An important cultural museum, of the the city of Recife, the Instituto Ricardo Brennand – or the Ricardo Brennand Institute – is home to historic art and artefacts from Brazil’s Middle Ages through to the 20th century. With a strong emphasis on the colonial era and Dutch Brazil, spend a few hours wandering around the castle complex of this incredible museum.

Top 5 Museums and Galleries in Brazil

With its complex social history spanning indigenous nations, Portuguese and Dutch colonization and the arrival of African slaves, Brazilian culture is a melting pot of different peoples and cultures. You can learn all about this rich cultural history at some of Brazil’s finest museums. Here are five awesome museums to visit in Brazil:

When it comes to Brazilian food, brigadeiros are a national icon. Thick, sweet and delicious, these Brazilian truffles are made with condensed milk, butter and cocoa powder. Shaped into small balls and covered in sprinkles, you can pick up these treats at Brigadeiros do Tuiter in Rio de Janeiro.

Best eaten at Brigadeiros do Tuiter, R. Voluntários da Pátria, 45-108 Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro

Crispy, deep-fried balls of goodness, coxinhas are one of Brazil’s favorite savory snacks. With its name translating into “little chicken thighs” in Portuguese, these croquettes are stuffed with chicken and potatoes, formed into a triangular cone-like shape and deep fried. You can pick them up in bars all over the country.

Best eaten at Comadre Coxinha, R. das Pernambucanas, 30 Graças, Recife

Beijinho de Coco

Similar in shape and appearance to brigadeiros, these sweet treats are another fan-favorite at Brazilian parties and celebrations. Meaning “little coconut kisses” in Portuguese, beijinhos de coco are made with condensed milk, butter and flaked coconut. Pick up some of these delicious coconut balls at Balas de Coco in Rio de Janeiro.

Best eaten at Balas de Coco, R. Ana Neri - Riachuelo, Rio de Janeiro

Something like a cross between aranici and falafel, acarajé are a Brazilian fritter made using peeled black beans and onions. Rolled into little balls, crumbed and deep-fried, these delicious savory balls are sometimes served with a spicy shrimp stuffing. Our favorite place for acarajé? Acarajé da Ciça in Rio De Janeiro.

Best eaten at Acarajé da Ciça, R. do Mercado, 7 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro

Moqueca de Camarão

Hailing from the Brazilian Coast, Moqueca de Camarão is a fragrant seafood stew. Made using prawns, coconut milk and lots of fresh herbs and spices, this orange-red stew is packed full of flavor. Grab a serving of Moqueca de Camarão and rice from Nomangue Caiçara in Rio de Janeiro.

Best eaten at Nomangue Caiçara, R. Sá Ferreira, 25B Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Food in Brazil

From its fresh, fragrant seafood to its variety of sweet truffles, Brazilian food is a feast for the senses. Go on a culinary adventure in this vast and varied country and savor all the flavors Brazil has to offer. Here are our picks for five Brazilian foods you’ve got to try.

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The Best Contiki Tours to South America

If you're a young traveler looking for a tour with a focus on nightlife, socializing, partying, and having a good time while also seeing amazing destinations, then Contiki is a great choice. It's one of the most popular tour companies around, and they offer plenty of tours to destinations around the world, including South America. They cater to travelers who are between the ages of 18 and 35 years old and the average age is 26 years old. The company has many years of experience offering fun and energetic tours with the interests of young adults in mind. Travelers who choose Contiki include both solo travelers (about 55%) and travelers with companions (about 45%). Contiki tour guides put a lot of emphasis on keeping the experience light, fresh, social, and fun, and helping ensure you make a lot of friends on the trip. So, if you're looking for a Contiki tour to South America , you'll find the best options here because we've analyzed the options based on price, destinations, rating, and more to find the top packages.

• The Explorer (Inca Trail Trek, 18 Days) 18 Days, $4034.00
• Argentina and Brazil Highlights (Carnival, 10 Days) 10 Days, $2014.00
• The Explorer (Train To Machu Picchu, 18 Days) 18 Days, $3869.00

What are Contiki's tours like in South America?

Here are the important factors:

• 4 trip options analyzed
• $276 average price per day (USD)
• 10 to 18 days in length
• 4.25 of 5 average rating
• 30 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of Contiki tours in South America, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.25 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 30 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 14 days, with tours ranging from 10 to 18 days long. With our thorough analysis of 4 Contiki tours, we've found the best. So rest assured that South America has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 4 Best Contiki Tours in South America

The explorer (inca trail trek, 18 days).

• On Sale: 10% Off See Prices

This 18-day voyage, visiting Peru, Argentina, and Brazil, is ideal for guests age 18 to 35. And priced at only $306 per day, it's a great value, too. Experience the excitment of hiking and mountain hikes on your journey. This trip takes you on an adventure to 13 destinations, including Iguazu Falls, Foz Do Iguacu, Sacred Valley, and Pisac. Begin your trip in Cusco and complete it with a memorable finale in Rio de Janeiro. It's offered by Contiki , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.

• Coach / Bus
• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

Argentina and Brazil Highlights (Carnival, 10 Days)

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Priced at just $301 per day, this terrific 10-day voyage, visiting Argentina and Brazil, is ideal for guests age 18 to 35. With 4 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see San Antonio de Areco and Iguazu Falls, and more. Your journey starts off in Buenos Aires and finishes in Rio de Janeiro. Organized by the reputable Contiki , this is one of the best tours on this list.

The Explorer (Train To Machu Picchu, 18 Days)

Check out this incredible journey that has received a 4 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Peru, Argentina, and Brazil. With a duration of 18 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 30 people, and is good for guests age 18 to 35. Along the way, this journey encompasses 13 destinations, including Sacred Valley, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes. Your journey will begin in Cusco and end in Rio de Janeiro. This fantastic option, organized by Contiki , presents an unbeatable value at just $290 per day. It's also on sale right now!

Argentina and Brazil Highlights (10 Days)

• On Sale: 20% Off See Prices
• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for Contiki tours.

Spanning over 10 days, this voyage, visiting Argentina and Brazil, has a maximum size of 30 individuals. Welcoming guests age 18 to 35, it is organized by Contiki , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Begin your trip in Buenos Aires and complete it with a memorable finale in Rio de Janeiro. Available at an unbeatable price of only $207 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from previous guests. Take advantage of the current sale and secure your spot today!

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South America , The Best Wildlife Tours to South America , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in South America , The Best Historical Tours in South America , The Best 10-Day Tours in South America , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in South America , The Best 3-Day Tours in South America , The Best 2-Week Tours in South America , The Best 3-Week Tours in South America , The Best 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in South America , The Best Extended Trip Tours in South America, One Month or Longer , The Best Bicycle Tours in South America , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in South America , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in South America , The Best Coach Bus Tours in South America , The Best Adventure Tours to South America , The Best Eco Tours in South America , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in South America , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in South America , The Best Sightseeing Tours in South America , The Best Cultural Tours in South America , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in South America , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in South America , The Tours for Animal Lovers in South America , The Best Photography Tours in South America , The Best Camping Tours in South America , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in South America , The Best Self Drive Tours in South America , The Best Antarctica Tours & Cruises from South America , The Best Walking Tours in South America , The Best Honeymoon Tours in South America , The Best Jungle Trekking Tours in South America , The Best Tours Under $1000 in South America , The Best Luxury Tours to South America , The Best Budget Tours to South America , The Best Tours for Seniors to South America , or The Best G Adventures Tours to South America for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

How much do Contiki tours to South America cost?

Travelers to South America will have a large number of terrific options for Contiki tours at a variety of great prices. The price of Contiki tours here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 4 Contiki tours, their average daily price is a very reasonable $276 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in South America .

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The Explorer (Train To Machu Picchu)

Rio de Janeiro

The Explorer (Inca Trail Trek)

Argentina and Brazil Highlights (None)

Why we love Contiki

Their trips create life-long memories for young people setting off to discover the world.

The Adventurer (Train To Machu Picchu)

The Adventurer (Inca Trail Trek)

Argentina and Brazil Highlights (Carnival)

Viva Costa Rica

• 4 Dinner (D)
• 8 Breakfast (B)
• Arenal: Grab your camera, as you’re about to experience a live (and very photogenic) volcano in the Costa Rican rainforest.
• Arenal: It's like a dream come true. We finally get to learn how to make chocolate. (And hopefully eat some too).
• : Insta-op! Trek around the jungle and admire this sparkling tower of water. Then cool off with a dip in the pool.

Thai Island Hopper West (Standard)

• 2 Dinner (D)
• 7 Breakfast (B)
• Phuket: Enjoy and learn about Thai flavours, yum!
• Phuket: Welcome to the bright lights of Phuket. Grab yourself a beer, as this is the ultimate haven for party animals.
• Phi Phi Islands: Kick back with your new Contiki fam at Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint – feeling like you’ve just won the lottery of life.

Northern Thai Highlights

• 6 Breakfast (B)
• 1 Dinner (D)
• 2 Lunch (L)
• Bangkok: Nose around the gilded Royal Palace, then travel like a local: floating down the Rivers.
• Kanchanaburi:

East Africa Safari

• Maasai Mara National Reserve: How to make the most of our time in Maasai Mara? This afternoon/evening, you’ll have the chance to set off in search of whatever wildlife you missed in the morning – binocs at the ready!
• Maasai Mara National Reserve: Known for its grassy plains and rolling hills, home to lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras and hippos, the Maasai Mara is a jewel in Africa’s wildlife crown – don’t miss your chance to explore it at sunrise.
• Maasai Mara National Reserve: It’s your last evening in the Mara to see the epic wildlife on this vast savannah.
• Nairobi: Meet the dedicated team and see for yourself the work being done to help the women and children who live here in the Kibera slum.

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Southern Africa Safari

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Garden route and addo.

I am an immigrant child whose family left South Africa some decades ago. This journey helped me to see what my parents loved so much about the country and to fall in...

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Argentina and Brazil Highlights (Carnival, 10 Days)

• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Feel the rush of nature's power at the Iguassu Falls National Park
• Try tasty Argentine food on an interactive food tour
• Experience the passion of an included Argentine tango show with dinner
• Pay homage at Rio's famous Christ the Redeemer (Corcovado) statue
• Experience the thrill of Rio's colourful performances and street parties
• Introduction
• Day 1 Start Buenos Aires
• Day 2 Buenos Aires
• Day 3 Buenos Aires
• Day 4 Buenos Aires
• Day 5 Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls
• Day 6 Iguassu Falls
• Day 7 Iguassu Falls to Rio De Janeiro
• Day 8 Rio De Janeiro
• Day 9 Rio De Janeiro
• Day 10 End Rio De Janeiro

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by contiki.

Contiki has been running tours for over 50 years, all exclusively for travellers aged 18-35 years old. Their mission is to bring young travellers together to see the world, focusing on unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories. Contiki believes in real travel experiences, and they care about making sure these experiences contribute positively to the people and places they visit. Every Contiki trip makes travel easier and more social by organizing accommodation, food, experiences and transport, so you can relax and focus on exploring the world with young travellers just like you.

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.5
• Itinerary Excellent 4.5
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.5
• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Good 4.0
• Tour Operator Contiki 4.7

• N Nyra · 24th February 2022 The tour guide was excellent and dealt with every member of the group well. However, the add ons, extra payment for transportation and meals should have been clearly stated in the description. Trip date: February 2022

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
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• February 2026
• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 22 Feb, 2025 Monday 3 Mar, 2025 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €1,872 + €923 additional upfront costs 0% Interest Instalments Only Pay €100 Deposit Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 7 Feb, 2026 Monday 16 Feb, 2026 English Multiple Room Types €2,100 + €1,035 additional upfront costs 0% Interest Instalments Only Pay €100 Deposit Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currencies $ Argentine Peso Argentina R$ Brazilian Real Brazil

As a traveller from USA, Canada you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, I. As a traveller from England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, I, A, B. As a traveller from Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, A, B.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Argentina and Brazil. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Argentina and Brazil. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Argentina and Brazil. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Argentina. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Recommended for Argentina and Brazil. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Brazil. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 12th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 12th July 2024, a minimum payment of €100 is required to confirm your booking with Contiki. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Contiki will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Contiki" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Quality This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities.

Buenos aires (argentina), rio de janeiro (brazil), available tour start dates, may 19, 2024 to mar 9, 2025 these are the tour start dates for instances of this tour that were available the last time contiki sent us such information. there may be other departures for this tour that are not available (i.e. sold out or cancelled)., activity level, no rating provided these are tours that the vendor has not electronically communicated an activity level for. contact us if you would like to know the activity level for any of these tours., guaranteed date(s) yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. no means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster)., special interest(s), 18-to-thirtysomethings contiki tours are only available for 18- to 35-year olds..

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• • $445: Intra Tour Air Argentina and Brazil
• • $56: Intra Tour Air Tax Argentina and Brazil

Visited During Tour

Buenos Aires (Argentina) | Iguazu Falls (South America) | Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

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Contiki Tour Code 322-1368

Start Buenos Aires

South America’s most cosmopolitan city will spread out before us like a treasure box waiting to be opened as we descend on Buenos Aires. But tonight, you'll meet your fellow traveller before having the chance to explore everything there is to offer.

Buenos Aires

Now's your opportunity to get the full Porteno (locals from Buenos Aires) experience.  This morning why not go check out the colorful La Boca neighbourhood? Tonight we're heading to a tango show. Have a go yourself, enjoy the first of the Argentine food you're sure to love, and then watch the pros show you how it's done.

• Meals Included:

Today you've got the opportunity to take a day trip to Tigre. Learn about the history and culture of the inhabitants of the "isleños". If you'd prefer to stay the other side of the border, Buenos Aires is yours to explore today, your way.

Now that you know Buenos Aires like a Porteño the day is yours to explore! Join in a day at the Polo where you'll learn about the traditional Argentine game, learn how to play and even partake in a game of your own. If you're more comfortable out on the water, opt to experience the Tigre Delta for the day on a relaxing boat ride, or if you want to stay on dry land enjoy a short bike ride around the surrounding areas. No matter what you choose, we'll all dive into a delicious regional lunch. Weather permitting you can even swim and kayak. In love with the city life of Buenos Aires? Then spend some time exploring the museums and/or the shops in Palermo.  There truly is something for everyone.

Buenos Aires to Iguassu Falls

Landing in Puerto Iguazu we’ll hop over the border and dig our toes into Brazilian soil for the first time, clapping eyes on yet another astounding natural wonder. Listen out for all those oohhs and aahhs. A collection of 275 individual waterfalls, Iguassu Falls sprawls both Brazil and Argentina, with both sides offering up stunning UNESCO World Heritage parks and views. Today though, is all about the Brazilian side, and what better way to see the falls from every angle than with an optional helicopter ride, taking the term ‘birds eye view’ to a whole new level. Go on – treat yo’ self! For those keeping feet on the ground, take your time exploring the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu. Tonight, dinners packing a serious punch – we’ll be treating you to an authentic Brazilian BBQ dinner. Say hello to the meat sweats…

Iguassu Falls

Iguassu we’re not done with you yet! Yesterday was all about the Brazilian side, but today we’re hopping back over to Argentina to see what the deal is from this side of the falls. We’ll take a hike to the very edge of Devil’s Throat, the highest of the 275 falls, and for those keen there’s even the option to take to the water with a speed boat ride through the spray of the falls. Refreshing? Oh you could say that…With a full day spent here, take your time exploring, trying to figure out the age old debate – which side wears it better?

Iguassu Falls to Rio De Janeiro

Catch you later Iguassu – Rio, we’re coming in hot… If Rio knows one thing, it’s how to p-a-r-t-y, so having fun in this life loving city is already a given. But first things first – let’s get acquainted with our surroundings a little better. After a quick orientation tour, the afternoon is then yours to explore as you please, though given our hotel's beachfront location, we reckon you'll only have one thing on your mind.

Rio De Janeiro

Today check out the city from above, hang gliding to see Rio in all its scenic glory. Then this afternoon is all yours, and it sounds like Copacabana Beach is calling your name. Or if a game's in town watch the masters of football do it like no one else can, while you soak in the crazy atmosphere that goes alongside the national sport.

Excuse us while we cry into our caipirinhas - today is our last full day on trip. But before the emotions run too high, let's make sure we see it out with a bang, Rio style. First up is a visit to Christ the Redeemer, a New Wonder of the World. Standing at an impressive 30m high (98ft), this religious monument casts an almighty shadow over the city below, and will be a moment you won't be forgetting anytime soon. This afternoon, how does a boat cruise sound? Featuring cocktails, tunes and good times, it'd be rude not to. Afterwards, we'll enjoy an included farewell dinner together.

End Rio De Janeiro

This morning, this adventure of epic proportion will finally come to an end. Hug it out with the new friends you now class as family, and damn right you’re already on those reunion tour plans. Europe next summer, anyone?

Contiki is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Argentina & Brazil Highlights (From Mar 2024) tour:

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• Tour Selected: Argentina & Brazil Highlights (From Mar 2024) (322-1368)
• Tour Operator: Contiki
• Start Date: August 10, 2022
• End Date: August 19, 2022

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Contiki’s South American Adventure – Argentina and Brazil Tour

Find out all about Contiki ‘s South American Adventure tour. It’s the perfect introduction to Argentina and Brazil.

It’s been a while since my big trip through Mexico . I’ve dreamed of going to Brazil for years, and heard that Argentina (in particular Buenos Aires) is an amazing place, so this time I booked with tour company  Contiki ,  who specialise in tours for 18-35s. 

The 11-day tour kicked off in Buenos Aires, then went up to the Iguazu Falls where we crossed over the border, and then went to Buzios followed by Rio De Janeiro.

Here’s what happened… BUENOS AIRES

Before travelling I read about Taxi Ezeiza  – a safe taxi service you can book in advance. As it was a long flight, it was reassuring to arrive at the kiosk and find my name written on a board. I paid in advance and followed the driver to the car. Well, I assumed he was the driver… but no, it became apparent when we reached the taxi, the driver was waiting there and this was a porter scouting for money. He approached the wrong person – as I had just landed I didn’t have a peso of change! I felt awful!! He shouted something in spanish and we went our separate ways.

I checked into the  Icaro Suites  in the centre of the city, where our hotel would be starting from. This hotel is well located in the centre of the city, just a few blocks from the bustling Avenida Corrientes. My standard room was enormous – a suite with a kitchenette, huge bathroom, an uber king size bed and a lovely sun-catching balcony! It was pristine and felt incredibly luxurious for under £40 a night. It also had a gym and sauna. Breakfast was a s tandard buffet with fruit, yoghurt, toast, pastries and some cooked items.

I ventured out into the city for a few hours to get my bearings and grabbed a pizza at a restaurant on the corner of Avenida Corrientes. The famous  Obelisco  was just a few minutes walk away as was the main plaza with 14 lanes of traffic snaking around it. This is a busy city, and on arrival was quite overwhelming to be right in the heart of it!

Find out more about tours with Contiki . 

That evening, I met the rest of my travel group and tour leader Christian in the penthouse meeting room at the hotel. We were talked through the itinerary, ground rules and then headed out for a group meal. My first true Argentine steak, and wow it was good! It was at a steakhouse called  La Estancia just east of the Obelisco. It was a relatively touristy restaurant but satisfied all our red meat cravings! Amazing steak, chips and Malbec wine!

Contiki Tour Group

There were 24 in our group, all young and friendly. The only negative I had is that the majority of the group had already travelled on a tour from Peru and Machu Picchu, and this was the second part of their tour. They were quite cliquey on first meeting, lots of stories, new friendships and in jokes. Hopefully nothing that a few days together wouldn’t fix! I instantly bonded with the other newcomers to the group. 

Activities In Buenos Aires 

The next day was Sunday. The majority of the group went on a city cycling tour, while a few of us less-keen cyclists took a taxi to Feria de San Telmo (the market in Plaza Dorrego) for brunch and shopping. It was a lovely place to take in the vibe of the city – buzzing, vibrant, cultured, civilised and friendly. Older couples tangoed in the streets to musicians selling their CDs!

A Tango Lesson In Buenos Aires

hat evening we went to Complejo Tango for a tango lesson.  A lot of us were nervous before the lesson, but having a few glasses of wine helped calm us down!  It was an excellent class. The teachers were amazing and made it a fun way to learn. We swapped partners and picked up all the steps we needed for a basic tango, and took away a certificate!  

After the lesson we tucked into dinner while watching the pros in action in  a tango show. The show was very impressive and the food, although basic, still had good flavour. A real selling point for this trip was the unlimited wine which we took full advantage of!

  During the other days in Buenos Aires we checked out the famous neighbourhood of La Boca with its postcard-pretty coloured houses. We also visited  Café Tortoni , cited as one of the ten most beautiful cafes in the world. 

There are plenty of shopping streets in the centre of Buenos Aires including some large department stores. I really enjoyed w andering the streets, and then stumbling across a pretty plaza. In particular,  Plaza de Mayo  where La Casa Rosada (The Pink House) is situated. This is the main office for the Argentine President. We also paid a visit to  La Recoleta Cemetery  – the famous cemetery which contains the graves of notable people including Eva Peron. It is a surprisingly beautiful place, easy to get lost in. We took a guided tour, and the guide had so many interesting and witty stories.

Buenos Aires is known for having a buzzing nightlife and one evening we headed to Club One, one of the city’s biggest nightclubs. It often plays host to the biggest name DJs. It was a truly hedonistic night, and the club was big enough to rival any I’ve been to in Ibiza. We danced until dawn and sipped on champagne and vodka.

A highlight of my time in Buenos Aires was a trip to  Bomba De Tiempo  – an outdoor drum show at  Ciudad Cultural Konex . It was around £3.50 to get in and was heaving with locals. In general it was a young crowd and felt like across between a theatre show and a rave! Drinks were cheap and the atmosphere was electric. You can catch the show on Mondays from 7pm.

Cooking Class In Buenos Aires

On our final evening in Buenos Aires we went to  The Argentine Experience  in Palermo Hollywood. It bills itself as ‘An experience that aims to give you an introduction to the best of Argentine cuisine and culture’. I had assumed it would just be about cooking but we came out really enriched and full of information about the culture and history… as well as a few empanadas heavier!

We were taught all about the cuts of meat , and the 24 hour preparation method they use for their steaks. We created our own empanadas crammed full of luxurious ingredients (meats/cheese/vegetables). We also indulged in a few different Malbec wines, and enjoyed making our own alfajores for dessert. These are an Argentine delicacy – a biscuity, caramelly, chocolatey concoction – to die for! I would thoroughly recommend this experience if you get the cha nce.

Visiting Iguazu Falls With Contiki

The flight to Iguazu took around 2 hours. Once there we travelled by coach to see the falls. They border Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay and you can see them on foot (along the many paths), by speedboat or by helicopter.

We spent one day on the Argentine side and one day on the Brazillian side. Two days is enough to see and do everything there and I can safely say, it’s one of the most spectacular places I have ever been. Find out more about visiting Iguazu Falls.

Speedboat Tour Of Iguazu Falls

I decided to do the Great Adventure Safari and Boat Trip – a speedboat tour of the falls combined with a safari tour through the jungle to reach the boat. It was an exhilarating trip. I remember leaning to my friend and saying ‘I thought we were supposed to get wet…’ Famous last words. A few seconds later we went right into the ‘Devils Throat’ and got completely drenched. You can get an idea of what it’s like here. Suggestion – take a change of clothes (I found out the hard way!) While visiting Iguazu we stayed at  Hotel Del Rey , a reasonable hotel (£30 approx) on the Brazillian side in Foz do Iguaçu. It’s only 30 minutes away from the falls and features a gorgeous rooftop pool and cocktail bar. One evening we enjoyed a delicious BBQ on the rooftop. Breakfast was a large buffet, and highlights included the pancakes, pastries and pão de queijo (cheese bread puffs). Rooms were fairly basic and not very luxurious. There was a slight smell of damp although the area was fairly humid. If you’re staying in the area, it’s unlikely you’ll spend much time at the hotel anyway, so it didn’t really bother me.

Some of the group chose to take a  helicopter ride  over the falls and took some incredible photos. Personally I felt the price to be a little too high for a 20 minute experience, but if money were no object I would have gone!   Along with the spectacular scenery, we also some amazing wildlife including monkeys, exotic birds, turtles, coatis and alligators. 

Visiting Buzios, Brazil

Buzios is just under 3 hours by car from Rio De Janeiro. It became famous in the 60s after Brigitte Bardot visited the sleepy fisherman’s town, and described it as ‘paradise’. It grew in popularity, and today has numerous hotels, shops, restaurants and bars. However, it has retained a charm unlike many other seaside towns. 

We checked into the  Hotel Rio Buzios Beach  – a very nice hotel which looked like a series of villas built into the side of the cliff. It had a large pool with lots of loungers and spectacular views of João Fernandes Beach. My room had two double beds and was  very spacious with a large balcony with a table and chairs. The buffet breakfast was excellent – particularly the fresh exotic fruits.

The area was perfect for relaxation. There were’t many families at the hotel (mainly couples) and the beach wasn’t too busy. Along the beach were cafes and restaurants serving exotic seafood, BBQ’ed meats and cocktails. We sat under giant umbrellas at A Pomba  where I ordered a small grilled chicken dish… and was shocked when this enormous platter arrived! A beer cost around R$8 (£2) and cocktails around R$18 (£4.80).

One afternoon we set sail on a private boat cruise around the bay. We had music, a top deck to clamber up to for amazing views, unlimited cocktails and beer. We watched the sunset and spent a few hours swimming and diving off the boat.

Some of the group booked in for a surfing lesson in Buzios which they said was great… meanwhile the rest of us lazed by the pool, finally enjoying a real break after so much travelling. I really enjoyed exploring the main town of Buzios which was around a 15 minute walk along the coast. The shops, restaurants and bars were on the classy/upmarket side. I enjoyed looking around the pretty boutiques and jewellery shops and picked up a few gifts, before reading the menus at the expensive sea-view restaurants!

There is quite a contrast between the classy shops and boutiques and the hedonistic clubbing in the area. Buzios has a branch of Ibiza super club Pacha, plus Privilege , Zapata, Anexo Bar and Möor to name a few. We had one late night clubbing in Buzios which was great fun, although not as busy as it wasn’t peak season.

Visiting Rio De Janeiro, Brazil With Contiki 

We visited the  Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro , A.K.A ‘The Beehive’. It’s an unusual design but breathtaking when you go inside. It was built in a modern style in the 1960s and can fit 20,000 people. The amazing stained glass windows soar from the ground to the ceiling (over 60m high).

We also visited the Lapa Steps or Escadaria Selaron , which were designed by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón . He lived nearby and built them as his “tribute to the Brazilian people”. They are made up of thousands of tiles pieced together. Make sure you go if you get the chance. It was easy to get lost looking at each individual tile – most of which were designed/found by Selarón, but some of which were donated by visitors from all over the world. On the tiles were flags, maps, pictures of Princess Diana, animals, jazz musicians, christmas trees, Bob Marley and even a tile of The Simpsons. It really was incredible, and an enormous amount of work. Sadly, Selarón was found dead on the steps just months before my visit – a real tragedy.

Hang Gliding In Rio De Janeiro

On one of our tour’s final days in Rio De Janeiro we had the option to go hang glide with  Rio Hang Gliding . While I would say I have an adventurous side (after all I was discovering South America on my own!) I never envisioned throwing myself off the side of a mountain! However a friend and I decided to go for it.

We paid R$315 (around £80) and had to register for an insurance card. Then we met our instructors – Ronnie… and Ronnie! Ah ‘The Two Ronnies’ I said laughing… they didn’t have a clue why that would be funny! My Ronnie led me to his car, where there was another guy in the back already. I was a bit unnerved by this part of the trip. I assumed we would all be put on a bus to the top of the mountain, but no, each instructor drives their car up and the guy in the back helps set up the equipment, then drives the car back down.

Once at the top, we were kitted out in helmets and protective clothing. Ronnie told me we had to run in sync as fast as my little legs would take me! We practised on  the runway area, before getting in position and doing it for real. He took care of steering the hang glider and the landing. I can safely say now, that hang gliding over Rio was one of the most magical, crazy and amazing things I have ever done. Soaring on the wind over some beautiful neighbourhoods, then out over the sea and landing on the beach… it just felt like there were no stresses in the world. A real escape. After landing we received photos of the flight, and could also purchase a DVD. I didn’t bother with that, knowing I would watch it once and never again!  

Brazil is famous for rodizios and churrascarias – a kind of BBQ restaurant where you pay a set price for all-you-can-eat meat which is served at the table on giant skewers. Close to Hotel Vermont was Carretao Classic Grill, where we indulged in amazing steak, chicken and types of sausages. Some of the group sampled more local delicacies such as chicken hearts and liver. We helped ourselves to mountains of delicious salads, potatoes, bread, seafood and even sushi! This restaurant catered for large groups and the food was delicious. 

Rio De Janeiro – Favela Tour 

Rio is known for the juxtaposition of rich and poor, and this became really clear when we went on a favela tour  run by  Don’t Be A Gringo, Be a Local ,  of the largest favela in Brazil –  Rocinha .  While there are so many things to see in Rio, you might prioritise Sugarloaf/Copacabana etc, I can honestly say this was one of the most interesting things I did in the city.

It was educational, inspiring and really left a lasting impression on me. We had a guide for the tour, and travelled from the top of the favela right to the bottom. We witnessed old ladies hanging out washing, kids playing drums, schools, nurseries, artists painting, stray cats and dogs, shops, bakeries and more. It was impossible not to feel a real sense of community. We stopped in an art gallery within the favela where I bought a piece of artwork by Sarah, one of the artists. Our guide explained that the best way to help improve the lives of the people living there was to buy things and donate to the schools. We stopped at a cake shop where we bought cream cakes and fruit tarts. We were warned against purchasing anything from people on the streets there (particularly drugs) as it could be illegal. Thankfully we didn’t have any hassle during our trip.

Something that was prevalent in the favela was the bold graffiti stamps of various gangs. There were two that dominated this favela, one was called A.D.O and you could see the initials scrawled on walls all over the favela.

The view from the top of Rocinha was incredible and I couldn’t help but feel that a lot of the people there seemed quite content, despite the poverty level. They may be living on top of each other, but they still had access to a lot of the necessary amenities, and they had an amazing sense of community. 

Favela Party In Rio De Janeiro

One evening in Rio a few of us went to a party in another favela (around 30 minutes drive away). In my head I thought it would be an enormous street party but in reality it was similar to a warehouse party. This was also organised by  Don’t Be A Gringo, Be a Local  who helped us into the club, and showed us to our reserved VIP area. They advised us that it was safer to stay upstairs, but we could mingle with the locals downstairs if we wished. We felt nervous on arrival but after 20 minutes of watching the locals dance, we were desperate to join them on the dance floor. Once downstairs we danced altogether – the locals spinning us around and attempting to teach us their moves! Needless to say, they were a LOT better than us!  

Visiting Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio De Janeiro

Anyone who goes to Rio is guaranteed to have two places they want to visit – the statue of Christ The Redeemer, and Sugarloaf Mountain. These are both well worth the trip, and you will come away with some amazing photos. We went to Christ The Redeemer around lunchtime and hit a big patch of mist which spoiled a few photos. However the scale of the statue, and views of surrounding areas were still very special. I particularly enjoyed my visit to Sugarloaf Mountain. The only real way to get there (unless you own a helicopter!) is by  Cable Car  which costs R$60 (around £16). We timed our trip for sunset and the views were absolutely breathtaking.   

I spent time on Ipanema and Copacabana Beaches. Of the two, Ipanema was definitely prettier, cleaner and less crowded. However, it had some big waves and scary currents. One huge wave knocked me over, then the current dragged me under the water as I tried to get up! Another wave knocked my friend’s sunglasses off her head and they were gone forever.

Copacabana was incredibly crowded but there were lots of nice beach side cafes where they would serve you drinks to your deck chair. A few caipirinhas later we were all very happy. There are different posts on the beach which you should be aware of… for example, 8 is where the favela kids hang out, 10 is good for sport lovers (there’s always beach volleyball being played there) and there’s also a gay and transvestite section. Beach traders come past every few minutes selling anything from ice cream to bikinis to seafood.

 One afternoon we grabbed lunch at  Garota De Ipanema . If you know the song ‘The Girl From Ipanema’ this is where it all began! The guy who wrote the song was inspired by a girl walking down this street towards the beach. Yes it’s touristy – there are song lyrics all over the walls, but the service was friendly and we had some delicious croquettes and salads.

Party Boat In Rio De Janeiro

On my final evening with the tour in Rio we hopped on board one of Rio’s legendary  boat parties ! We sailed around Guanabara Bay, sipping on cocktails and enjoying the gorgeous view of Rio by night. They offered free drinks to girls for an hour on the top deck – probably a recipe for disaster, but we took full advantage. We partied on board until around 4am – and went back to the hotel exhausted! 

For my final few nights in Rio I moved to the  Golden Tulip Ipanema , just around the corner from Hotel Vermont, and one block from Ipanema Beach. I had booked this as I was unsure whether any of my new tour friends would be extending their trips in Rio, and I wanted to have a comfortable, safe place to stay. This hotel was excellent, and my 15th floor room offered amazing views of the beach. The rooftop pool was incredible, with lots of loungers free and beautiful views of the surrounding area (including Christ The Redeemer). I enjoyed a few strawberry daiquiris sat on the edge of the pool taking in the views. 

The buffet breakfast was probably the best of my trip – with all the usual options (toast, cheese, ham, fruit, sausages, eggs) plus champagne and smoked salmon! The coffee was excellent too, and that’s usually a good gauge of a breakfast!

One lunchtime I went to Opium Restaurant  in the hotel – an asian restaurant. I ordered a caipirinha which was one of the best of my trip, and a R$25 (£6.60) sushi platter. It was delicious, fresh, generous and the presentation was exceptional. The service was friendly and they spoke very good English if, like me, your Portuguese isn’t up to scratch!  

On one of my final days in Rio I took a walk to the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. It was a lovely area to wander around and also a good way to check out some other neighbourhoods, including a very smart shopping neighbourhood a few blocks back from Ipanema Beach. I didn’t plan to shop in Rio, but it’s hard not to leave without a bikini, some Havianas and a bottle of rum!

On the final day, the hotel was very accommodating as I wasn’t flying until late at night – they let me use the pool all day and their beach service (towels / umbrellas) if I wanted. They also organised a taxi to the airport. 

Find out more about tours with Contiki and check prices here . 

Well I asked myself this after my Mexican Adventure a few years ago… and look what happened!

So let’s see… but I well and truly have the travel bug. I already love South America and would happily return. Maybe next time I’ll be more adventurous! 

In particular I would love to see more of Brazil. I guess it’s just a matter of time before I’ll be booking my next flight, so watch this space. 

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

9 thoughts on “Contiki’s South American Adventure – Argentina and Brazil Tour”

Really enjoyed reading about all these places. Heading to Rio soon and will definitely check out the favela tour and maybe the hang gliding if I feel brave on the day!

Hi What was the general age and nationality of the other people on your tour? Was it couples or singles? What did they say about the first part of their tour to Peru as I am interested in doing both tours together. Thanks Dawn England

Hi Dawn, there were a mix of ages from 18 – 32 from what I remember. A mix of couples, groups of friends and solo travellers (like me!) They had a great time in Peru but some had got sick so by the time they reached the next leg of the tour they were pretty drained!

Hi Chloe, I am thinking of doing the same trip with Contiki but have read some mixed reviews. (issues with guides depending on who you get, accommodation and lots of hidden add on for transport etc). Would you recommend it or do you think it would be better to plan it yourself? Thanks 🙂

Hi Nat, with all of these things it’s hard to judge without knowing more about the guide and group. I really like travelling with others, and wouldn’t have fancied doing that trip as a solo backpacker, so it was a good option. Have a look at this post as it has some more options – https://www.wanderlustchloe.com/solo-travel-group-tour-company-review/

Hi Chloe! I’m doing this tour in a couple of weeks, this has been so useful! Can I ask what you packed?

Hey Ceri! Have the best time. Ummm, from what I remember I wore a mix of shorts / t shirts and jeans. It’s a nice mix of beach and city, so whatever you’re most comfortable in! Have fun out there. I loved it!

Hello! I’m considering doing this tour and was wondering if you remember any other prices for the add ons? What you’ve already listed has been very helpful!

Hey Sarah – thanks for getting in touch! So glad it’s helpful. Soooo sorry but I honestly can;t remember the costs for the add ons, but it was a little while ago anyway now, so I wouldn’t be confident that they hadn’t changed by now! Let me know if you go ahead and book – hope it’s a lot of fun!!

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Contiki Review – Travel Tours, Group Vacations & Adventure Holidays

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Young Travelers

Solo travelers, friends or groups, destinations, contiki australia, contiki europe, contiki japan, contiki new zealand, contiki thailand, contiki usa & canada, contiki reviews, contiki vs. topdeck, final thoughts.

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Contiki provides travel tours for young adults. The tour company was incorporated in the mid-1960s after a group of friends posted a flyer on a noticeboard advertising space on their 12-seater minibus to travel around Europe. To this day, group travel is still immensely popular, as you not only get to explore a fantastic destination, but you get to make lots of friends in the process.

Contiki is one of the best European bus tour companies out there, but it also offers group tours all over the world. Many tours use coaches, and groups can be as large as 52 people. In some destinations such as Africa and Latin America, group sizes can be as small as 12 people up to a maximum of 30.

Each tour has a driver and a trip leader that will be with you for the entire journey, and local expert guides will also join you for specific activities. With your travel, accommodations, and itinerary arranged for you, all you need to worry about is having an incredible time.

Who Are Contiki Tours Good For?

Contiki tours are exclusively for travelers from 18 to 35 years old so that you can experience a new destination with like-minded young vacationers. The tours are incredibly social and many travelers meet lifelong friends. Including a combination of scheduled activities and free time, the tours let you tick-off bucket list experiences and landmarks before enjoying a beer with your new pals.

Whether you’re an experienced traveler or are embarking on your first solo trip, Contiki tours are perfect for single travelers. You’ll experience the excitement of independent travel while having the logistics taken care of. Rather than having to approach a new friend in a hostel bar, you’ll get to know your fellow travelers in a less daunting environment.

Tour prices are based on twin sharing with a fellow traveler of the same gender, but you can also upgrade to a private room for a fee.

It’s not just solo travelers that choose Contiki tours. Groups of friends often join tours together as they love the idea of meeting more new people as well as getting to travel with their friends. You can all book your places and pay final balances independently, avoiding 1 person having to be responsible for everyone’s finances.

Contiki Tour Types and Destinations

Everyone has different preferences when it comes to travel. To help travelers choose which tours might suit their travel style, Contiki has tagged its tours under various categories.

Contiki’s Adventure tours include the usual transport and accommodation, but they also include unique travel experiences for adventurous types. You could be quad biking through the Cambodian countryside or soaring high above the Sonoran Desert in Arizona in a hot air balloon.

Hot Tip:  Be sure to check out our adventure travel essentials before your next trip.

African Safari

Africa’s incredible landscapes are teeming with wildlife, large and small, from majestic elephants bathing in watering holes to color-changing desert chameleons. African Safari tours include plenty of wildlife encounters and other bucket-list experiences such as Victoria Falls, the Sossusvlei salt pans, and Table Mountain.

Beach Trips

Contiki has picked some of the best beaches in the world to create tours with the perfect blend of sun, sea, adventure, and nightlife. Beach Trips tend to follow the coastline of a destination, so you can enjoy surf lessons to beach yoga and sunset cocktails to fresh seafood dining.

Hot Tip:  We take the pain out of packing for your beach vacation with this printable packing list .

Discoverer trips offer an excellent balance of culture, iconic sights, and adventure. You’ll tick off lots of bucket list experiences as well as authentic local encounters, which are often the most memorable moments. These tours are generally longer than 9 days, so you’ll get to immerse yourself in a destination.

Iconic Essentials

Iconic Essentials tours cover comprehensive itineraries around Europe and include some excursions and lots of free time. This means that you can tailor-make your trip to only see the sights that are important to you. If you’re used to traveling solo or are skeptical about touring, this tour type could be a good compromise — travel and accommodation are arranged but many of the excursions are optional.

Hot Tip:  Check out the best compact, mirrorless, and DSLR cameras for travel so that you can capture iconic sights on your tour. 

In-Depth Explorer

In-Depth Explorer tours enable travelers to experience a destination like a local, with lots of authentic experiences to immerse yourself in the local culture. Accommodations include well-situated, independent hotels, so you’ll enjoy the comfort and convenience while knowing you’re supporting local communities.

Island Hopping

Why stay on 1 island when you can experience them all? Island Hopping tours allow travelers the opportunity to experience the unique culture and quirks of island life while enjoying the journey in between. Relax on palm-fringed sandy beaches, sip a cocktail while watching an island sunset, or go in search of marine life with a snorkel or diving excursion.

Hot Tip:  Make sure you’re prepared for your beach tour with these recommendations for the best travel beach towels and blankets .

Sailing and Cruise

Sail between beautiful islands and buzzing port towns with a Sailing or Cruise tour. On some tours, your ship is your transport and your accommodation, so you’ll only need to unpack once for your whole trip. When it comes to sightseeing, you’ll get the best of both worlds, with regular stops for land-based exploration and plenty of incredible views of the coastline.

Short Trips and Festivals

Short Trips and Festival tours are great for those who want to explore a city for a couple of days or combine their holidays with a festival or celebration. These include music festivals, New Year’s Eve celebrations, or local public holidays, so you can celebrate in style while soaking up the local culture.

Hot Tip:  If you’re heading away on a short break, you might want to upgrade to one of these recommended carry-on bags , including wheeled cabin bags and backpacks.

Ski and Snowboard

Ski and Snowboard tours offer the perfect solution if you’re looking to explore a new destination while getting in some slope time. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, you’ll have the option to book lessons and chances are there will be someone on your tour of a similar standard. Enjoy the cool and crazy vibes of Tokyo before taking a train to one of the nearby ski resorts or hit the slopes in Lake Tahoe on a sightseeing trip through California, Arizona, and Nevada.

Small Group

Some of Contiki’s groups accommodate up to 50 people, which some travelers love, as it allows them to meet more people. If you prefer a smaller, more intimate travel experience, Contiki offers Small Group tours with tours averaging 12 to 24 people.

Volunteering

Contiki’s Volunteering tours allow travelers to give back to the countries and communities they’re exploring. Volunteer tours combine exploration with a service element, such as participating in sustainable development projects.

Other Tour Types

Contiki has a variety of other tour types:

• Backpacking
• Christmas Tours
• Group Travel
• Guided Tours
• Hiking and Trekking
• New Year’s Eve Tours
• Sightseeing
• Solo Travel
• Winter Holidays
• World Tours

Contiki provides over 350 tours to 75 destinations within these countries, continents, and regions:

• Latin America
• Middle East
• New Zealand
• U.S. and Canada

Contiki Top Tours

Contiki offers itineraries of up to 22 days to explore this vast country. Many cover the popular east coast from Sydney to Cairns, while others venture into the remote outback to watch the sunset at Uluru. Sail around the Whitsundays, learn to surf at Byron Bay, or see where the rainforest meets the reef at Cape Tribulation.

• Includes transport, accommodation, breakfast, and some activities

Hot Tip:  As flights are not included in the tour price, you might be interested in the best ways to fly to Australia with points and miles . 

Contiki is well-known for its European bus tours, but some destinations utilize transportation by train or boat for coastal areas. It’s usually unnecessary to fly between destinations as combination tours like European Discovery typically cover neighboring countries. Let’s take a look at a sample of what’s available.

Contiki Croatia

You can discover Croatia as a standalone tour or as part of a combination Balkans or European tour. With one of the longest coastlines in the Mediterranean, it’s the perfect sailing destination, stopping at the historic coastal cities of Dubrovnik and Split and the beautiful islands of Korčula and Hvar.

• Includes transport, accommodation, some meals, and activities

Contiki Greece

You can island-hop your way around Greece or visit as part of a wider European tour. With most tours starting in Athens, you can explore the iconic Acropolis and Olympic Stadium before sailing between the likes of Mykonos, Santorini, and Ios.

Contiki Italy

Contiki runs a wide variety of trips to Italy, ranging from week-long tours visiting some of its most iconic cities and coastlines to 45-day European tours. From exploring Roman ruins and floating cities to sampling fresh pasta or delicious wine at a 16th-century Tuscan winery, you’ll most definitely be living la dolce vita .

Japan is an enchanting county of contrasts, from bustling cities to ornate temples and magnificent mountains to war memorials. With the high-speed bullet train, it’s pretty easy to get around to Kyoto and Hiroshima, and some tours include a trip into the mountains for skiing or snowboarding.

Hot Tip:  If you’re planning to visit Japan in Spring, take a look at our ultimate guide to the cherry blossom festivals .

Explore the North Island, South Island, or both with a Contiki New Zealand tour. Cruise across the Bay of Islands, go white water rafting down Kaituna River, or spend a night on the town in Wellington. Contiki tours range from 6 to 19 days.

• Includes transport, accommodation, some meal, and activities

Hot Tip:  If you’re flying from the U.S. to New Zealand, find out which U.S. airports Air New Zealand flies direct from .

Embark on the ultimate Thailand adventure and tour the northern jungles of Chang Mai and the exotic coastlines and islands of the south. If you’re looking to visit more than 1 country, some tours combine Thailand with neighboring Cambodia or Malaysia.

If you’re looking for a tour closer to home, Contiki offers trips throughout the U.S. and Canada. These range from 2-night city breaks exploring Los Angeles , Orlando, or New York, or trips up to 26 days covering most of the eastern and southern states.

Hot Tip:  If you decide that a group tour isn’t for you, check out the best road trips in the U.S.  that might inspire you for your next vacation.

My Contiki is a platform for you to manage your profile and bookings and view trip itineraries, including the details for your Trip Manager (the person responsible for running the trip day-to-day). If you want to chat beforehand with people that will be on your tour, you can do this in the Meet Up area and you can also access any social media groups that the Trip Manager or your fellow travelers might set up.

Contiki is a well-reviewed tour company with the following overall ratings:

• Feefo : 4.6 out of 5
• Contiki.com : 4.6 out of 5
• TourRadar : 4.7 out of 5

These are some recent reviews from some of Contiki’s top tours. It’s clear to see that the Trip Managers contribute hugely to the enjoyment of the tours. The majority of the negative reviews for Contiki center around the lively nature of the tours and a focus on drinking culture. While this may suit some young travelers, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.

Australian Outback Adventure “The trip itself was incredible, we had so many activities, most of them you had to pay for but it was defiantly money well spent, it was worth it!! There was a lot of travelling involved but it was all an amazing adventure, and we got to get to know everyone much better.” — Emma Mccaw

Croatia Island Sail “Dani was incredible, made it such a fun experience. She was so knowledgeable with history and local tips. Gave us plenty of down time and got the party started at the right times. It was a great week and would definitely recommend to friends” — Harriet Gilmour

Japan Winter Wonder “The trip manager was absolutely brilliant. We visited amazing places and our accommodation was very good. We were well looked after and our trip manager always made sure we were enjoying ourselves. There was so much to do everywhere we went and there just weren’t enough hours in the day to do them all but we always saw the highlights in every city.” — Anonymous

New Zealand The Big Tiki “Honestly can say one of the best trips I have been on! Amazingly well organised and the included activities were very good. A big thanks to Dan and Pat for organising it all so well and going above and beyond to make sure we made it to our activities!! The accommodation was very very good and I thought the itinerary covered everything key.” — Anonymous

Spotlight on Greece “The trip manager was really cool and took us to amazing local spots! The activities went from nature to museums to wine and dining! It was all a blast and I highly recommend for anyone who has only a week to get away! The locals are all so friendly and the food is amazing! Beautiful hotels and easy transportation included! A must see!!” — Melanie Button

Thai Island Hopper East “Everything was great. Especially for the price of the trip. Trip manager was amazing and everything was set out for us. Best experiences with not a worry in the world.” — Alexander Brighton

United States Grand Southern “Trip is well thought out stopping at great spots around the U.S. The extra add ons were fantastic, a large variety of what you normally get on organised tours. The trip manager Hayley Jo was beyond amazing, she went above and beyond to make sure anything was possible on the trip! Would highly recommend the Hot air balloon and snowmobiles, was such a great day!” — Emma Walker

Topdeck is another popular tour company covering many of the same destinations as Contiki , with both companies extremely popular for European bus tours. Both appeal to the same target market, however, Contiki does have a firm age limit of 35, and Topdeck caters to “18-30 somethings.” The travel style is very similar across both operators with socializing at the core, and both offer small group tour alternatives for those looking for a less party vibe.

When it comes to cost, Topdeck comes in cheaper than Contiki on the overall tour price, but this is often because there are more entrance fees and excursions included with Contiki. Topdeck provides a lot more free time, so any activities would be additional.

Contiki is an extremely popular tour company for young people, but large group tours are not going to suit everyone’s travel styles. Contiki tours are known for their lively, party atmosphere, which many travelers love. It’s as much about meeting new people and socializing as it is about exploring a new destination for them.

Many travelers make lifelong friends within their tour group, and the company states that many people have even found love on a Contiki tour. Contiki recognizes that not everyone wants to travel in a large group and has created some tour categories that have a more in-depth focus on the destination or for traveling in smaller groups.

As with other group tour operators such as G Adventures and Intrepid Travel , Contiki is committed to sustainable travel by supporting local communities, ethical animal experiences, and planting 1 tree for every traveler that uses e-documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go on contiki if you are over 35.

Contiki has a maximum age limit of 35 for all of its tours, so if you are over 35 you would not be permitted, unfortunately.

Should I go on a Contiki tour alone?

Whether you’re an experienced traveler or are embarking on your first solo trip, Contiki tours are perfect for single travelers. You’ll experience the excitement of independent travel while having the logistical side of things taken care of. Rather than having to approach a new friend in a hostel bar, you’ll get to know your fellow travelers in a less daunting environment.

Tour prices are based on you sharing with a fellow traveler of the same gender, but you can also upgrade to a private room for a fee.

Are Contiki tours safe?

Contiki is committed to providing a safe environment for all travelers, and Trip Managers are there to support travelers with advice and recommendations on safety. Although most traveler’s experiences are problem-free, there is always a small element of risk when exploring an unknown destination.

Are Contiki tours good for couples?

If you’re a sociable couple happy to be around the company of others, you’ll likely enjoy a Contiki tour. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic trip with lots of alone time, it probably won’t suit you.

Do Contiki trips include flights?

Entry and exit flights from the meeting point are not included in the tour price. Any flights that form part of the itinerary are included in the price (unless otherwise stated) and these are often used in Asia and South America where it’s necessary to cover large distances in a short space of time.

Is Contiki a party tour?

Contiki tours do have a reputation for being party tours, featuring a reasonable amount of free time to explore the local nightlife. Although the atmosphere can be quite lively and social, it’s up to the individual whether they decide to partake.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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I Traveled Solo on a Contiki Group Experience—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

I was invited to join a group travel experience with Contiki, and I was surprised to find out I had previously been traveling wrong.

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I vividly recall the terror that crossed my mother’s face when I shared my plan to backpack solo across Europe for a month. She was playing into that typical mom-drama where they think you’re going to die at any moment. For context, I had just graduated college and felt it was the most appropriate time to venture alone and see a little slice of the world. What I didn’t know then was that I was going to be so extremely bored for 75 percent of the trip.

I had unknowingly signed myself up to wander aimlessly in a foreign land with nobody to share this amazing experience with. To give some credit to my mother, I even did feel a bit unsafe at times (You were right, Mom!). Okay, and maybe I met a few cool people at the hostels I was staying at or in the pub, but our travel plans never seemed to line up, and so I would eventually be on my own again. Enter the solution: Contiki.

If you aren’t familiar with what Contiki is, don’t worry. I’m about to explain it and how I had one of the best times of my life on a trip sponsored by Contiki.

The TL;DR on Contiki

Contiki is a service that books you on a group travel experience for ages 18-35 that includes accommodations, expert-guided itineraries, some meals, and transportation (not including flights). Essentially, you join up with a group of like-minded and aged travelers who want to get out and have an authentic experience abroad. Contiki offers over 200+ professionally curated itineraries to pick from all across the world that range, depending on your travel style and preferences.

Contiki Group Travel Experience

My Experience With Contiki

I was invited to travel on a sponsored Contiki trip to tour the Iberia peninsula for a dream adventure around Portugal and Spain for 10 days. I’m not going to lie to you; I was nervous beforehand because I have never traveled with strangers, especially internationally (somehow, that makes it more nerve-wracking). But, by the end of the trip, I can honestly say I made true and honest friendships with people I would have never had the opportunity to meet otherwise. The experience was unique and offered a curated experience of some countries I think I would’ve had a harder time navigating alone. With that being said, Contiki has made me never want to travel solo again.

What the Trips Are Like

To start, the trips are guided by a trained trip manager who will liaison the entire experience by showing you around, educating you on the culture, and offering first-class recommendations on what to do with your free time. It was such a bonus to have someone at our disposal who knew all the hidden gems of each town or city we were in. Each Contiki trip includes the accommodations in the price, which, to me, was such a relief not to have to worry about. In my past experiences of booking international stays on my own, I have been scammed a few times with false ads, language barriers, and oversold hostels. I felt each stay was a comfortable, mid-range hotel experience with clean sheets, bathrooms, and friendly staff.

Each day of the trip was uniquely different, with a mostly planned itinerary that included activities, sightseeing, and tours. The day would start with an included breakfast, then we would hop on the coach as a group to travel to a new destination with gaps in the day to explore on our own. Some of the included activities were walking tours of the cities, local food and wine tastings, and even a flamenco dance show in Madrid! The Contiki trips are structured to allow you to split off and do your own thing or participate in their Free-Time Add-Ons, which are additional activities or experiences you can pay for ahead of time.

This is why I think Contiki has the potential to be the ultimate travel experience for someone who wants to travel solo but might not want to actually be alone. Mainly, you’re getting a huge variety of activities without all the stressful planning. Whether your friends can’t get off the same PTO as you, or maybe you just want to go at it alone, Contiki will provide an outline for a great and unique travel experience.

Pros and Cons of Contiki

• Includes transportation (not including flights)
• Accommodations/hotels included
• Included authentic experiences
• Great way to meet new people
• A trip manager is available the whole time
• Ability to stick with the group or do your own thing
• Cost-efficient in comparison to DIY
• Has payment plans to alleviate upfront costs
• Destinations are prepicked so if there are cities you want to visit in certain countries, you might not be able to
• Only some meals are included (but that allows you to pick your own!)
• You won’t know how many people are traveling on the trip with you or who they are

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YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CONTIKI

Contiki Tours are an organised group tour of young like-minded travellers from around the world, in groups of 13-50 people, aged 18-35. The tours can span from a couple days, to 1 week, 2 weeks or even up to 45days, so there is something for every type of traveller. Contiki tours are perfect for first time travellers, solo travellers, social travellers, adventurers and groups. Simply, they are perfect for anyone who doesn’t want the burden and stress of having to plan a trip themselves – Contiki organises accommodations, destinations, transportation and all the little bits in-between.

Trip Styles.

Contiki can sometimes be characterised as very intense and fast pace, this is because they’re trying to give you a taste of various destinations in a short period of time. You should take this into consideration before planning your trip, because this pretty much means, no sleeping in, lots of hours on a bus and less time to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in the world. But fret not, there are also tours that offer a more relaxed pace, offering you more time at each destination to see and do more. It’s really worth considering how you want to travel, because depending on which pace you choose will determine what you are able to experience.

Contiki is perfect for taste-testing destinations so that you can grasp an idea of what places you’d love to come back to in the future. 

The various paces and trip types are;

• Discovery Plus
• High Energy
• In-Depth Explorer
• Freestyle Camping
• Sailing & Cruise
• Festivals & Short Stays
• Winter & Ski

Contiki tours are perfect because they take away the headache of planning. Planning your own trips takes a lot of time and researching. Contiki makes it as easy as “bags to coach”, so all you need to do is get there on time.

The Contiki Pack.

Before departure, Contiki provides you with a passport wallet to bring on your travels.

• Europe and UK sim card
• ‘Know before you go’ pamphlet
• Miniature Europe travel guide
• Trip information and Itinerary
• Hotel list duplicate for family/friends
• Booking summary and accommodation details

Kick Start Meetings at Contiki Basement.

Tours leaving from London have a kick-start meeting at the Contiki Basement the night before the trip departs. Located by the Royal National Hotel (which is also the meet-up spot), they begin at 6pm, so all you have to do is ask at the Contiki Basement reception desk where the meeting is – usually it is in the Royal National’s breakfast buffet room. On Bedford Way, it is clearly signed.

The meeting is quite underwhelming. The name gave me the impression that we were all going to sit down and get to know a bit about each other and learn all about what will be going on with the tour and learn the rules etc. The reality was a little intro with two other tour groups, checking our details (Travel Insurance and Emergency Contacts) and meeting our Trip Managers. It is a great opportunity to meet your fellow travellers, though I found that once everyone had filled out their forms they left – which was understandable, everyone’s jetlagged!

What you need to bring to the meeting;

• Trip documents (provided in your Contiki Pack)
• Travel Insurance info

The Contiki Basement is open;

• May 1 – September 30: 9.00am – 8.00pm (Summer Hours)
• October 1 – March 31: 11.00am – 7.00pm (Winter Hours)
• April 1 – April 30: 11.00am – 8.00pm

Me Time Optionals.

Just as the name states, these experiences are little bonus experiences and excursions that you have the option to do while on tour in your ‘me time’ – meaning the part of the tour where travellers are left to explore or relax on their own. The price for these is not included in the overall tour cost, so you can basically pay per optional activity. The price range for these can really range, some perfectly fitting to the average budget, and some are more costly – like skydiving in Switzerland. The ‘Me Time Optionals’ are a perfect opportunity to bond with your new friends, as most people usually opt to do all of the excursions – but it’s completely up to you. You don’t have to decide on which ones you want to do straight away, a few days into the trip you are given a form where you can tick each one you want to do – as some require pre-booking. Then you are given a few days to pay, they are generally pretty flexible.

If you opt to spend your ‘Me Time’ according to your own plan, you typically arrive at the destination one day, and then the next day is the day to explore it. Your TM will give you a short tour of the area as well as providing a map and highlighting the popular landmarks for you – from there you are off to roam for yourself.

Contiki offers a good balance between guided time and history lessons, i.e. in some places you are taken to places you don’t want to go to. In Paris you are taken to a perfume shop/museum, and it’s up to you how much you pay attention to the demonstration. In other places you may be offered a short walking tour which is great as an introduction.

Note: The coach will ALWAYS go with the tour group and scheduled optional activities.

Your Destinations.

As I said before, Contiki is perfect for taste-testing a destination. You will always get to see the major landmarks in each country. No doubt about it. In Paris? You will stand on top of the Eiffel Tower. The smaller things, might not meet your expectations, where the itinerary says you will see something, it may just be a drive by, or a short stop. Like any destination, there’s usually TONS to see, but Contiki is generally fast-paced, so you may find more use for your time than waiting in line at the famed Anne Frank Huis.

One of the biggest perks of being on a Contiki tour, is that they get you access to things that would be difficult to plan yourself, like skipping long lines at the Eiffel Tower.

Trip Manager and Drivers.

Your Trip Manager (TM) is one of the most important assets of your journey. They know everyone and they know pretty much anything about the destinations – they are there to answer your questions, and inform you on the local history, attractions and also provide you information regarding the tour. The TMs are there to make you feel safe, and ensure that you are having a good time, but in saying this, they are not the Mummy or Daddy of the trip, they aren’t there to hold your hand – it’s completely up to you to make sure you are there in time for the bus.

Your TMs and your driver can pretty much make or break your trip. The driver is the one responsible for getting you from point A to point B, and the more experienced the driver, the more likely he is to know all the short-cuts, back routes, and ways to avoid rush hour – so fingers crossed they are perfect with time management.

During your journey you are also able to use hashtags for your TM and Driver – and they pick their favourites to go towards winning more Contiki Tours. #ContikiMike #ContikiPaolo

Your Fellow Travellers. 

18-35yr olds, the average Contiki tour is made up of a mixture of various traveller dynamics. Solo travellers, pairs, couples, friends, and siblings, you’re pretty much ensured to make yourself comfortable somewhere or another. The TMs are always there to help if you’re feeling a little shy, and know that making friends on a Contiki tour is one of the best parts of the journey – they’ll become your friends for life, not matter where on the globe they reside. Your Contiki Family will become your family away from home.

When it comes to group dynamics, you shouldn’t be worried about who you’ll end up touring with. The groups can range up to 50 people, so you’re guaranteed to meet people you jive with.

Contiki Rules. 

I cannot stress enough how important it is to be on time. Not only will arriving early get you in the good books, but Contiki is known for leaving people behind who don’t show up on time. If the bus leaves without you, you are pretty much left to sort out how to meet them at the next destination. If you are lucky, you can jump onto another Contiki bus, but know that this won’t always be an option. Obviously if they know you are near, the TM isn’t going to leave a member of your Contiki Family behind, but there is a limit – every 5 minutes you are late each day takes off more and more time that you could be spending at your new destinations.

Accommodation. 

Contiki has accommodations at both ends of the spectrum. They usually level themselves out – i.e. the closer you are to the centre of the city, the more likely the hotel will be quite basic, because otherwise it would cost you $$$. The further away from the city, the nicer the establishment – so you’re basically paying for location or quality. Either way, they have their plus sides. The negative to the accommodations located further away from the city, you may have to organise transportation to get back and forth. The Contiki bus always offers fixed pick-up and drop-off times, and your TM will always let you know how to get around by public transportation.

On Contiki tours, you have the option to share a room with 1 to 3 people, or single. For most trips you will only have to share with one other, though when booking the trip, you have the freedom to make this choice. If you really want the private room, you’ll have to pay a bit extra, but I would REALLY recommend at least sharing with one other traveller – if you’re solo, this is the perfect chance to make a relationship with someone else on your trip.

Each tour and its location varies on the quality and types of foods and how many meals are provided in the overall cost. More often than not, breakfast is always provided, and some dinners – but some meals are left to you, or are available through cultural dining experiences in the ‘Me Time Optionals’. There’s a balance of average meals, to amazing meals, but it’s up to you how you spend your money in your free time. If you have a dietary requirement, Contiki is happy to accommodate you and ensures you get a special meal at group dinners. On days where you are free to organise your own dinners, it’s a perfect opportunity to find a local restaurant with your Contiki Family.

Drinking and Parties.

Contiki is pretty well-known for it’s party scene. Travelling with a group of young people, it’s not hard to see why. A perfect way to get to know your fellow travellers, it allows people to let off some steam, get more comfortable around these strangers and dance,  a lot . Trying local drinks is always fun – and if you plan for it, you can hit up Oktoberfest in Germany! But again, like the ‘Me Time Optionals’, it is totally up to you to decide whether you want to drink and go out. You can go out, and not drink or not go out at all, or you can drink until your head hurts – just make sure you’re able to get onto the bus the next day. Basically, it’s up to you to be responsible, know your limits, but also have fun, create bonds, and know that there are plenty of options available to you.

When there are group events on at night, the coach will take you there. Most of the time there will also be a pick-up time, but it is NOT available late at night. The general routine through the week was to go out every second night before coach days, as you can nurse the hangover without wasting a day of travelling.

There will be hookups. It’s basically up there in that party-scene genre. People are away from home, making new experiences, far far from the general judgey people that they know from home. Contiki is pretty much a conductor for hookups, putting a large group of young adults together, all high on life, seeing the world, and mix that with some nights out and alcohol, you can see where this is going. But know, everything that happens on Contiki tours is completely respectful, people will always judge, its human nature, but everyone understands that its a part of the Contiki lifestyle, everyone’s there to have fun. You might even get a holiday romance on board the coach, #ContikiCouple.

Pleeeease., don’t overpack. Pack clothes that can mix and match together instead of a new outfit everyday. Mid way through your journey there are laundry facilities available to the Contiki Family, around 20Euros it’s worth splitting a laundry bag with your roommate/s.

As well as this, you should think ahead about what sort of luggage you want to bring, backpack or suitcase. Backpacks are perfect if you are going to have to do a lot of walking and carrying your stuff, but suitcases are more suited for coach journeys as most of the time you’ll only have to move your bag to your room, and from your room.

Note: You should pack a few outfits for going out, you’ll want to feel nice when you’re out for the evening. Also, make sure you bring stuff to do on your downtime on the bus, as well as things to make you comfortable – the chances are high that you’ll want to take a nap after an early morning wake up. 

Just so you know.

There WILL be a theme party. You will not know what it is beforehand, and you’ll have enough time as everyone else to prepare for it.

Now don’t take me too seriously when I say down time, because this is pretty much only when you’re on the bus and sometimes late at night when everyone is winding down. Sometimes after arriving at a new destination you are gifted a few hours before dinner, but some people choose to use this time to explore the local area or socialise – time will fly.

On the Road.

When driving from one place to another, after departure, your TM will let you know when your next stop is, which is usually somewhere to refuel, grab a snack and take a bathroom break. There is a bathroom on the bus, but this is only there for emergencies (and once the tank is full, it can’t be used at all until it can be emptied, which can’t be done in most places). Sometimes the coach takes you the scenic route when first arriving to give you a scope of the beautiful city, it all depends on time.

Your coach is your home, so keep it clean and respect it. Chances are high that a few of your fellow travellers will be cursed with the Irish flu, so this is something to consider on nights out, can you handle the hangover? There are plastic bags available throughout the coach. The bus has a clock visible at the front, and nice big windows that are cleaned nightly by the driver. The seats are as comfortable as a coach bus can be expected to be, they recline, but it’s pretty much like being on an economy flight. By the toilet in the centre of the bus there is a charging station – but you will still need adaptors.

On board the bus, music is played usually from the TMs iPod (or your fellow travellers), but as well as this, every tour gets a ‘day song’. This song will play for the rest of your trip, to psych you up each morning.

Note: THE CONTIKI COUGH IS REAL. Pack cold and flu tablets, whatever you need. Sitting in a bus of circulated air means if one person is sick, chances are someone else will get it.

It’s been said that the average tipping on Contiki tours is $2 a day each for the driver and your TM, but there is absolutely no pressure – pay what you think is fair. They will hand you an envelope, and you can put whatever you want in it.

Getting the most out of your travels, my top tips:

• Your attitude is everything. Be positive or your negativity will bring you down.
• You won’t get along with everyone.
• Not everyone will enjoy it – don’t ask me why, just be aware.
• Do the things that you  enjoy . You paid for this trip, so make it what you want to be. If you want to sight see, do it. If you want to drink the trip away, do that.

The Post Contiki Feels.

When you get home, like any exciting trip overseas, you’re going to have that travel bug well embedded. Take advantage of that and go out, see your friends, explore your hometown. It won’t last forever, and soon enough you’ll get those Post Travel Depression feels – that feeling when you notice your every day life just isn’t as exciting as it was during your travels.

Want some tips on taking advantage of the travel bug once you’re home? See here .

Check out their website: www.contiki.com for more info.

Feel free to ask me any questions you have about Contiki tours!

Holly O'Sullivan

Holly is the founder and content creator of THATraveller. Holly travels the world, photographing, writing and vlogging about all of her journeys.

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Unlocking Adventure: The Top 5 Best Contiki Tours for Every Traveler!

Posted on Last updated: October 13, 2023

Categories Tours

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Is this year the time to get ticking off your bucket list destinations? An adventure with Contiki Tours could be just what you are looking for!

If you are between 18 and 35, Contiki offers out-of-this-world group tours that are great value, fun-packed, and a great place to meet like-minded fellow travelers. Wherever your wanderlust is calling you, Contiki has you covered.  So what can you expect from the best Contiki Tours? 

With sixty years in business, the Contiki team has the business of traveling down. Their travel program spans worldwide and covers the hottest travel destinations.  Contiki’s vision is to provide accessible, affordable travel options for young people looking to get out there and explore the world.  

Joining a trip with Contiki is more than just a holiday.  Become part of the Contiki community, meet your travel goals, grow your confidence, forge lifelong friends, and have a meaningful, fun travel experience.  Contiki offers the perfect place to make global connections with both your travel mates and local communities you meet en route.

All Contiki trips come complete with an expert Trip Manager who is essential for creating world-class adventures for all Contiki guests. Using their in-depth knowledge of the destination. They will give you all the info you need to dive in and make the most of every place you visit. They set the vibe for a fun, exciting journey, help you orientate to new cities, and provide any assistance you need while on the road. 

Operating an inclusive policy, Contiki offers a fun experience regardless of your personality, previous travel experience, or individual differences.  There is something for everyone. Contiki values its diverse and vibrant community, and your trip manager is skilled at helping new groups bond and break the ice. 

Are you thinking of traveling solo? Contiki could be the perfect option.  Around sixty percent of travelers who join a Contiki tour do so solo.  Embrace the freedom of solo travel and combine it with the chance to meet a whole group of new friends.  Contiki offers the right mix of scheduled activities and space to get out and explore how you want.  

In addition to your trip manager, transport between destinations is included, and a professional, safe driver is responsible for getting the crew from A to B.  Take the stress out of the journey with all the logistics taken care of so you can concentrate on the good stuff.  

Significant expenses are all included in the trip price.  Transport, accommodation, and a range of activities are all-inclusive, making Contiki trips easier to budget, so you don’t need to stress about running out of money.

Carefully curated accommodation is provided for every night of the trip.  Accommodation choices vary depending on the trip, but rest assured all accommodations will meet the Contiki standards from centrally located city hostels, glamping or camping experiences, hotels, and Contiki special stays.  Contiki only works with the best in the business. They know what makes a great stay, and their accommodation choices reflect this.  

Contiki endeavors to make every trip a memorable experience. With a massive range of tours available, you can choose a tour that suits your needs and budget. If you travel with friends, you can request to stay in the same room as your mates.  If you travel solo and want a little more privacy, you can upgrade to a private room.  Whatever the experience you are looking for, Contiki can make it happen.  

With years in the business, Contiki knows how to provide the ultimate travel experience, from the best places to visit, to uncovering hidden gems, unique experiences, the best parties, restaurants, cultural experiences, and active adventures. Whatever you are into, Contiki has you covered with mind-expanding experiences.  

As the world leader in youth travel, Contiki’s mission statement is Make Travel Matter.  Travel has a profound impact on the communities, the places, and the communities we visit.  By making sustainability and responsible travel the cornerstone of their vision, Contiki helps facilitate young travelers to leave a positive impact on the places they visit.  

Make Travel Matter Experiences visit innovative projects which support local people, the natural environment, and wildlife. You may visit local community projects, meet local people and artisans, learn more about indigenous cultures, or visit innovative projects which benefit the natural environment and wildlife.  These amazing experiences help educate travelers about global issues and allow a deeper connection to the destinations they visit.

Contiki has undertaken a sustainability pledge and a 4-point climate action pledge.  They have implemented a carbon calculator to determine how much carbon each trip produces and have invested in carbon offsetting to reduce the impact of their tours.  In addition, they are committed to lowering emissions on their trips wherever possible.  They have invested in their fleet of coaches, which are both modern and fuel efficient. Coach travel offers a more sustainable option than the traditional road trip. 

If you take a trip with Contiki, you can be assured they are doing everything possible to make the trip as sustainable as possible and travel responsibly.  

Contiki provides life-affirming travel for young adventurous people looking to discover what the wider world offers. So if you are ready to book an unforgettable adventure, stop dreaming and make those plans a reality. Pick your destination and get involved.  

Whatever your adventure style, vibes, or wherever you want to go, Contiki has it covered.  Read on to find out the best Contiki tours which we have sorted for you to provide the ultimate travel inspiration. 

Read on for some ultimate travel inspiration for your next Contiki adventure.  

Page Contents

Eternal India

Food and wine in a french chateau, the explorer with (inca trail trek), sun and steam ( new zealand ), beaches and reefs (australia), the powder rush.

Are you ready to sharpen your sense of adventure with an action-packed twelve-day tour of India?  

Contiki offers an epic tour that takes in the multi-sensory extravaganza that is the vast, frenetic, and inspiring country of India, traveling through the Golden Triangle onwards to Mumbai and the exotic shores of Goa.  

This trip is perfect for those wanting to get out and explore India safely, socially, and stress-free. With your expert trip manager, driver, and local guides, this trip will be a breeze.   

The group will embark from the capital of Dehli in all its chaotic glory. 

Under the wing of your local guide, explore the sights and sounds of the historic district of Old Dehli, with its abundance of everything from bicycles, people, and rickshaws to street vendors selling all manner of wares.  Marvel at the ornate architecture and rich, warm colors of the red sandstone buildings before immersing yourself in Dehli’s street food scene. 

Cross over the Yamuna River into the state of Uttar Pradesh towards the city of Agra to make some serious strides on your bucket list with visits to the formidable Red Fort of Agra and the iconic Taj Mahal with its glittering white marble and luscious courtyards, gardens, and spectacular water pool and fountains.

Hit up the expansive Ranthambore National Park with the opportunity to add on a sunrise safari to spot some of the park’s incredible wildlife.  The trip includes visiting the Dhonk craft center, which provides employment and education opportunities for local people and micro-financing services.  Connect with local people here and learn more about their lives with this included Contiki Travel Matters Experience. 

Let loose in Jaipur, where you have some free time to explore.  Your group leader is full of expert recommendations, so grab your new travel crew and head out to savor the visual delights of this city with its distinctive pink-hued buildings.  Make a pit stop at Udaipur for a guided city tour, taking in the stunningly beautiful City Palace complex on Lake Pichola’s banks and the ornate Jagdish temple.  

Next, head to the mega-city of Mumbai with its cacophony of noises.  Watch as skyscrapers rise from it’s sprawling bodies and flotillas of boats sail the busy shores of the Arabian Sea. A local guide will help you experience the rush of this metropolis. Then it’s on to the beaches of Goa to embrace the sounds of the waves.  Your trip ends here, and it is the perfect spot for a farewell party to Goa’s legendary nightlife.  

With transport and accommodation covered, Eternal India provides an accessible and worry-free way to experience India’s incredible history and culture .  Immerse yourself in the amazing sights and sounds, from ornate temples to the city metropolises, lush countryside to beachside shores.  India has it all, and Contiki can’t wait to take you there. 

• Hotel accommodation
• Comfortable travel on a private coach
• Services of an expert trip manager and friendly, knowledgeable guides
• 11 breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner
• Orientation and sightseeing tours with local guides in Dehli, Udaipur, and Mumbai
• Entry to the Taj Mahal and the Agra Red Fort
• Visit the Dhonk Craft Centre community project in Ranthambore
• Internal flight to Goa

Treat yourself to a gourmet French chateau experience.  

Tease your palette, and meet new friends with an epic four days living in a 16th-century chateau complete with a pool, in-house chef, and bar.  Your travel group will explore the delights of the Beaujolais wine region, which has an abundance of vineyards and a rich culinary tradition that highlights fresh, seasonal produce.  

A complimentary transfer will whisk you from the station of Villefranche sur Saone to your stunning accommodation.   Settle into your well-appointed rooms and explore the sprawling grounds of this 16th-century chateau, a fantastic example of the architecture of the French Renaissance. 

Savor a locally produced wine and cheese tasting before heading for a three-course welcome dinner in a picturesque local village.  Food on, drinks on!

The next day heads out for a day trip to the gastronomical capital of France , Lyons.  Take a tour of the city’s culinary highlights with a local expert.  Your guide ensures you will hit the best spots and taste this region’s best food and wine. 

Sip spectacular wines and stop by some of the Bouchons Lyonaise, traditional, rustic restaurants that specialize in serving regional dishes.  Uncover the city’s authentic culinary heritage before returning to a fun dinner at the Chateau, making the most of your beautiful accommodation.  

Hit up a winery tour in the Beaujolais Wine Region.  Visit three wineries and sample wines, meet local winemakers, and learn more about viticulture.  Enjoy an included winery lunch with paired wines as you live the good life in France. 

Relax at the chateau as the in-house chefs prepare a farewell dinner of traditional French fare for the group to round out your foodie adventure in style.  Expect plenty of laughs, delicious food, and flowing drinks. Your trip ends the next day, but there is still time for a tasty breakfast or dip in the pool.  

This lavish tasting experience will leave your buttons straining as you enjoy an introduction to this region’s exquisite food and wine.   With accommodation and gourmet tasting experiences included, this upmarket adventure is excellent value.   

• Three nights’ accommodation in Chateau De Cruix.  
• Complimentary transfer from the station of Villefranche sur Saone
• Local wine and cheese tasting
• Moveable Feast Walking Tour of Lyons
• Three Breakfasts in the Chateau
• Winery visits and included lunch in the Beaujolais Wine Region
• Three Luxurious French Dinners
• Small Group Size for an intimate experience
• A Few Extra Inches on the Waistline

Embark on a journey of exploration in Peru , Argentina , and Brazil .  This eighteen-day adventure lets you experience some of South America’s finest destinations, from the wonders of the Matcha Pichu to the dynamic capital of Buenos Aires and the flamboyant streets of Rio de Janeiro.   

Soak in the complex cultures of South America, the intricate stonework of the ancient Incan civilization, and the breathtaking beauty of the densely-forested, high-altitude hills of the longest continental mountain range in the world, the Andes.  

This trip is perfect for those wanting an in-depth exploration of this awe-inspiring region. 

Begin your adventure at 11,000 feet in the city of Cusco, the historic capital of the Incan empire, surrounded by the sacred Andean peaks of Ausangate, Salkantay, and Veronica and the formidable ruins of the mighty Incan Empire.

With a local guide, you will visit the ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo to start uncovering the legacy of the Incan people and their agricultural and engineering prowess.  Those who choose the one-day Inca trek can follow some of the original Inca trails, traversing mountain paths into the clouds and taking in views of the iconic peak of Huayna Picchu and the valleys below.  

Those who choose not to take the Inca trail trek will catch a train to Aguas Calientes, a gateway city to Machu Picchu; nestled between imposing mountains and lush rainforest, the town is only accessible via train or foot.  

This location offers an early start for one of the trips, highlighting a guided tour of Machu Picchu . Located high amongst the Vilcabamba mountain range, wonder at the shifting shapes of the mist and clouds as they shroud these ancient structures. This spectacular architectural complex was abandoned in the 16th century.  

Take a rest day in Cusco with some free time.  Explore with new friends, or choose one of the optional extra excursions available. Tomorrow your journey takes you airborne to the heart of the Amazon.  

Reaching Puerto Maldonado is an adventure in itself as your plane cuts through the mountains before descending into Peru’s Amazon basin.  Then you will voyage by boat to a spectacular jungle lodge deep in the pristine rainforest of the Amazon. 

From your comfortable lodge accommodation, smash your bucket list with a two-night stay in the jungle. Take a hike to a canopy tower to take in the incredible biodiversity of this verdant paradise, kick back and relax in your bungalow as the rich audioscape of gushing water, the howl of monkeys, calls of birds, and the patter of rain wash over you.  The next day enjoy an unforgettable guided canoe trip down the mighty waters of the Amazon.

Catch an internal flight to the city of Lima.  Spend a free evening with your new travel mates in Peru’s capital.  Experience the city come alive as night settles, meander through the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, stroll past the illuminated facade of the cathedral of Lima, follow the boardwalk along the cliffs for a spectacular view of the cities skyline, or visit the lively neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco.  

On to Buenos Aires next for an epic four-night stay in this energetic Latin-American destination.  Launch straight into the good times with a hearty dinner out. Get ready to experience the fire of the Argentinian tango dancers in a wild night of romance and dancing. 

The city is yours to explore. With the help of an expert local guide, get under the skin of this diverse metropolis. Follow insider tips and craft your adventure on the tree-lined streets, party until dawn breaks or join the optional extra excursions.  

Suppose this incredible city destination wasn’t enough for you. In that case, it is onto Brazil to experience the natural wonders of the unbelievable Iguassa National Park, home to one of the world’s most jaw-droppingly beautiful collections of waterfalls.  Surrounded by tropical rainforest, this semi-circle-shaped waterfall contains multiple cascades creating a dazzling visual display.  

Finnish this adventure of a lifetime, with a multi-day stop in Rio De Janeiro with beachside accommodation.  Get ready for the time of your life.  

Check out the famous sunsets of Rio, its vibrant city beaches, and unbeatable nightlife. With an orientation tour to get your bearings, there is plenty of free time to soak in the carnival atmosphere.  

These last days pack a punch with a Contiki Make Travel Matter guided tour through the favelas and an epic boat cruise in Guanabara Bay, taking in the stunning waterside view of the city’s iconic landmarks.  Toast your mates, toast the experience, toast yourself! This is you living your best life.  

Contiki makes the journey easy with a stress-free, safe, in-depth travel itinerary.  With an expert trip manager and local guides, a driving team, accommodation, and amazing included activities, this truly is a life-changing travel experience.  

• Expert trip manager, driving team, and local guides
• 13 nights of hotel accommodation and 4 nights of hostel accommodation (including a 2-night stay in the Amazon)
• 17 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners
• Exploration of the Sacred Valley (Urubamba), including the Pisac and Ollantaytambo Ruins
• Visit Machu Picchu with a guided tour and entry.
• Flight through mountain terrain and descending into the Amazon Basin to Puerto Maldonado
• Orientation tour of Puerto Maldonado, Buenos Aires and Rio De Janerio
• Amazon jungle canopy Hike and guided canoe ride
• Flight to Lima
• Flight to Buenos Aires and tango and dinner experience
• Flights to Iguassu, exploration of Iguassu National Park
• A Contiki Make Travel Matter Experience – Guided Favela Tour
• Visit Christ the Redeemer Statue
• Guanbara Bay Boat Cruise
• A full Instagram feed

Is New Zealand on your mind this year? Contiki offers an incredible North Island mini-break.  

Make life easy and join in on this sublime roadie that heads up to the sunny shores of Paihia in the upper Northland, then onto the geothermal delights of buzzing Rotorua.  

This social tour has a maximum group size of 45 and is the perfect place to meet new friends and travel companions.  A group tour is an excellent way to make the most of your time in New Zealand and shake up your social life while getting out there and trying new experiences.  

Travel in comfort on a spacious private coach. Your expert trip manager is a fellow New Zealand enthusiast with in-depth knowledge of the best activities and scenic spots.  In short, they have your back with on-the-road support! 

Meet your group in Auckland before heading toward Paihia. Take in the views as you cruise the open road. There is a scheduled pit stop in Whangarei. Stroll around the marina, with plenty of cafes and restaurants overlooking the waterfront. It is the perfect place for a leisurely lunch.  The city has a vibrant arts scene, and culture vultures will enjoy visiting the Huderwassert art center. 

On arrival in Paihia, the group will take a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to learn more about the history and culture of New Zealand’s indigenous people.  After a busy day, tuck into New Zealand’s classic fish and chips overlooking the idyllic Bay of Islands.  A free day in Paihia lets you explore the spectacular coastal beauty of this small town.  There are plenty of optional extras to try if you want, or kick back and do your own thing.  

Overnight in Auckland before hitting up the bright lights of Rotorua.  Here you will meet New Zealand’s national bird, the Kiwi, in a Contiki Make Travel Matter visit to New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery.  The evening sees you experience a traditional hangi dinner and Maori cultural experience.  

You have a free day to explore Rotorua , visit some of the town’s geothermal features, or get involved in some adventure sports. Your trip leader can hook you up with a raft of optional activities. The tour heads back to Auckland for your departure point.    

With included transport, cultural activities, accommodation, and a whole heap of fun, this tour offers a stress-free way to experience some of the North Islands’ premium locations and activities with a shorter New Zealand break.  

• 4 nights of hotel accommodation and one night in a hostel
• Private coach travel and professional driver
• 5 breakfasts, 2 dinners
• Visit the Huderwassert arts center.
• Guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty grounds
• Fish and chip dinner in Pahia
• Visit the New Zealand Kiwi Hatchery
• Maori Cultural Experience and Traditional Hangi Dinner
• Visit Auckland, Whangarei, Pahia, Rotorua

This incredible tour offers your ultimate east coast Australian Adventure .  

Join your trip manager and travel crew for this epic adventure. With a maximum group size of 30, this trip offers the perfect blend of social and intimate.  Prepare to make some serious inroads on your Aussie bucket list as you blast along the Pacific coast from Sydney to Cairns.  

Your adventure takes in the best of the east coast and is jam-packed with visits to stunning tropical islands.  This one is all about sun, sea, sand, and fun.  

Send an incredible three nights in Australia’s cosmopolitan capital Sydney.  Kick off with a day trip to the spectacular blue mountains, with their dramatic sandstone cliffs and shrouds of blue-tinted mist. Next day enjoy an orientation tour of Sydney with your group leader, including the Opera House and Bondi Beach.  

Hop on a plane for the laid-back shores of Byron Bay.  Embrace surfer life with an included surf lesson.  Be warned. You might catch the surfing bug! With a two-night stay in Byron, you have plenty of time to get acquainted with the town’s bohemian vibes, luscious natural surroundings, and thriving art and music scene.  

Hightail it to your next amazing destination with a two-night stay in a stunning eco-camp in the unique Noosa Everglades.  Soak in the surroundings with its dense vegetation and lush wetland ecosystems.  Later experienced a Contiki Make Travel Matter experience with a visit to an 80-acre sustainable farm.  

A day trip to Fraser Island guarantees unforgettable memories.  Head out early with the team to experience paradise, from its pure white sand beaches to the coastal dune system, abundant wildlife, marine life, and verdant rainforest.  Blast down the longest sand highway in the world and dip in Lake Mackenzie’s crystal-clear waters.  There is incredible wildlife to see here.  Prepare to be blown away but its rugged, wild, and isolated beauty.  

Things get pretty tropical where you are going next, with a base in one of Australia’s premier holiday destinations, Airlie Beach.   Located in the heart of the Whitsundays, it is the perfect jumping-off spot for a day trip to the jaw-droppingly beautiful region, surrounded by the coral sea, home to the Great Barrier Reef.  This is the place for exploring this extensive coral ecosystem, its spectacular array of marine life, and crystal clear turquoise waters.

Next up is a two-night stay on Magnetic Island, home to many Australian wildlife, from koalas to wallabies and possums. Head over by ferry before enjoying a hike to watch the spectacular sunset, with unobstructed views across the coral sea; the sunsets here are literally to die for. Next morning experience a uniquely Aussie breakfast experience with a slap-up feed at Selina Koala Village set amongst native trees. A wildlife ranger will introduce you to some of the residences of the onsite wildlife sanctuary.  

The last destination on the itinerary is Cairns.  Get acquainted with traditional bush cuisine with an incredible dining experience hosted by a local chef who demonstrates the uses of native ingredients before enjoying a traditional dinner using the native game.  

Join an expert guide for a guided tour of the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest and most diverse in the world.  As part of this Make Travel Matter experience meet with the local Kuku Yalanji people and learn more about the history and culture of the Aboriginal people.  Next, head over to the Janbal gallery to meet with an Aboriginal artist to explore the artistic expression of Dreamtime and try your hand at creating your own masterpiece.  Spend your last day in Cairns taking in the sights or join an optional extra Great Barrier Reef cruise.  

This incredible adventure takes in the breadth of Australia’s stunning East Coast for an epic journey of beaches, wildlife, and stunning tropical destinations.  

• 13 nights in hostels, 2 nights in an eco-camp
• 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners
• Expert trip manager, driver and local guides
• Day trip to the Blue Mountains
• Guided tour of Sydney, including Bondi Beach and the Opera House. 
• Flight to Byron Bay and a surf lesson 
• Fraser Island Day Trip
• Flight Brisbane to Airlie Beach
• Day trip to the Whitsundays
• Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef.  
• Ferry to Magnetic Island 
• Magnetic Island Sunset Hike and champagne 
• Breakfast with koalas on Magnetic Island
• Train to Cairns
• Make Travel Matter bush tucker dinner experience
• Guided tour of the Daintree Rainforest
• Immersive Make Travel Matter Aboriginal Art Class

Are you craving fresh powder? Dreaming of hitting the Canadian slopes for some world-class skiing and snowboarding?

Contiki’s Powder Rush Tour offers the ultimate Canadian Ski adventure on this 9-day tour for snow lovers.  Join a maximum group of 52 other powder hounds for your best winter holiday yet.  

This trip is perfect for meeting new slope buddies, sharing snow stories, and experiencing Canada’s stunning natural beauty. Your expert trip manager will set the vibes and get the excitement going, and your expert driver will handle the logistics.

Begin this epic adventure in the pumping city of Vancouver, where snow-capped mountains meet the shores of the Pacific.  

Jump aboard the comfortable Contiki coach to trace the coastline on the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway.  Keep your eyes open because the scenery is out of this world, with epic coastal views, rugged snowcapped mountains, the winding Squamish River, and lush forested hillsides.  

With anticipation kicking in, arrive at the legendary Whistler, home to the mighty Coast Mountain range, bucket loads of snow, and an electric apres-scene.  Spend a three-night stay in North America’s largest ski resort.  With varied skiing terrain and some of the best backcountry in Canada, Whistler has something for everyone.  Contiki has local connections and can hook you up with great deals on lessons.  

You might be sad to leave Whistler’s stunning slopes but fear not; your travel crew is headed to the magnificent Banff National Park.  Jump on board a flight to Calgary before a short drive takes you to Banff.  

This place is outdoor magic in all its glory, set against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains.  With its timeless natural beauty, the park is one of the biggest in Canada and home to next-level skiing and snowboard terrain.  

With three ski resorts in the park, you are spoilt for choice.  Banff Mount Norquay is located minutes from Banff town. It has approximately 60 runs, a terrain park, and also offers night skiing.  Lake Louise is Bannff’s most extensive area and has several terrain parks, good access to incredible back-country skiing, and amazing views of the Rocky Mountains and Lake Louise. 

Sunshine Village spreads across three mountains, has expansive views and access to the continental divide, and is located at an incredibly high altitude, benefiting from excellent snow conditions.  The choice is yours!

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there is a wide range of activities in the national park, from hiking to dog sledding, glacier hiking, and canyoning.  Your trip manager will help you out with any advice you need.  Exhausted from all the activity? Check out the natural hot springs or get out and enjoy the town’s lively apres-ski scene.   

When packing up your gear and waving goodbye to new friends, transport is provided to Calgary for your departure point.  

This tour offers an incredible way to visit two of Canada’s premium winter destinations, meet new friends, ski and snowboard to your heart’s content, and experience jaw-dropping mountain scenery.  

• Expert trip manager and driver
• Eight breakfasts
• Three-night accommodation and stay at Whistler Ski Resort
• Flight to Calgary
• Four Nights Accommodation and stay at Banff National Park
• Departure Point in Calgary

Complete Packing List for Contiki Tour of Portugal and Spain

P acking for a 9-night Contiki tour that covers four cities, two countries and four different hotel rooms over 8 nights can be a little intimidating. You have to pack enough to meet all of your needs but pack light enough to be able to move easily from one place to another.

Here, I share my complete packing list for my Contiki tour of Portugal and Spain as well as my packing list for that dreaded overnight flight from the U.S. to Europe.

What to Pack for an Overnight Flight

All the products on my list I bought in mini sizes so they would pass TSA scrutiny and fit into a small travel bag I tucked into my backpack for easy access during the flight. In terms of packing for the plane, especially overnight ones, I make sure I always bring these essential things:

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Facial wipes (washing your face in the bathrooms can be too messy)
• Aquaphor  (Your body gets naturally dehydrated on planes)
• Small face moisturizer and face wash (Doing skin care on the plan can be a good way to pass the time!)
• Small mighty patches  (I always get a little zit on planes and this treats them by the time you step off the plane.
• Neck pillow
• Compression Socks (this helps increase circulation and reduce swelling)
• Small body lotion
• Eye mask  (People next to you will probably turn on their reading lights)
• Melatonin (I have a hard time falling asleep on planes)
• Ear plugs  (In case my Air Pods die or I want to block out sound more comfortably)
• Water bottle
• Portable charger
• Universal charger  (I bought mine on Amazon for $25)
• Small perfumes (I also go to Sephora to grab small perfume samples, so once I land and get off the plane I have something handy to spritz on to refresh and smell nice)
• Tide stick (You never know when it may come in handy)

What to Pack for the Tour

I am a light traveler – the less I have to lug around with me the better. I brought a small suitcase and the large Contiki-branded backpack the tour company sent me the week before the trip. If you like to buy a lot of souvenirs, consider sizing up to a medium-sized suitcase but not packing it full at the start of the trip so you’ll have room to bring back all of your treasures.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  Check the weather at your destination(s) periodically before you pack. This will heavily impact what you bring. I traveled in March, when temperatures in Portugal and Spain were projected to be cooler (low 60s Fahrenheit) with a decent chance of precipitation.

Because of this, I packed these things to wear:

• Stretchy boyfriend jeans
• Low-rise Boot jeans
• 1 linen lightweight pant
• Short flowy skirt
• 1 long flowy skirt
• 3 long-sleeved shirts (mix and match)
• Round neck jersey tank top
• Bodysuit top
• Basic Ribbed Tee
• 1 lightweight raincoat
• Vintage Belt Accessory
• A pair of black boots
• 1 pair of comfortable white sneakers

With all of that in my small suitcase, I had just enough room to carry back a few small items.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  I use the rolling packing method to save space. Tightly roll up all of your jeans, tops, and jackets to keep them wrinkle-free and make for more room in your suitcase.

Toiletries to Pack

It can be tricky to know what to bring in terms of personal items because it depends on what the accommodations will provide. I reached out in advance to Contiki to understand what I would need to bring.

 Here’s the list:

• Face Wash and Moisturizer
• Any extra small skincare items you might need (medicinal topicals, etc.)
• Not every hotel offers complimentary towels (and in some cases you may find yourself having to pay for a towel service). Microfiber towels are great because they are incredibly fast-drying fabric and this is better than having to lug around a damp wet standard towel as you go from place to place.
• All the Portugal and Spanish hotels we stayed in supplied shampoo and conditioner; that may not be the case for some other country trips.
• Clips and ties for hair
• Skin primer
• Eyebrow gel
• Lightweight skin tint
• Undereye cream
• Blush cheek tint
• MAC Lipstick

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