Your bag is packed, your passport is in hand, and the world is waiting on the other side of your front door. The thrill is real, but so are the butterflies. Feeling a mix of excitement and nerves before your first big adventure is completely normal.
That’s where G Adventures comes in. Our small-group tours for first-time travellers are fully guided, stress-free, and supportive from the moment you arrive. Forget the headache of planning every detail because we’ve got you covered. You have the freedom to explore with the reassurance that someone always has your back. Travelling in a group means instant community. You share meals, swap stories, and maybe even find a few friends along the way. With the guidance of our expert leaders, you can discover the world without feeling like you’re alone.
Why G Adventures tours are perfect for first-time travellers
First trip jitters? Totally normal. Whether you’re dusting off your passport for the first time or travelling solo after years of dreaming about it, G Adventures make your first steps into the unknown completely stress-free.
You don’t have to plan a thing
No spreadsheets. No comparing 50 hotels. We handle everything, from transport and accommodations to unforgettable experiences. All you need to do is show up with your suitcase and an open mind. We even pick you up at the airport and drop you at your hotel. How’s that for organization?
We keep our groups small
G Adventures’ group tours are small in size and big in adventure. You won’t be crammed into a bus with 50 strangers. We keep our group sizes between 10 and 16 travellers to make sure you get the personalized attention you signed up for. Plus, many tours are made up of solo travellers, so you might already have something in common with your fellow explorers.
Local group leaders who have your back
Your trip is led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a local expert who knows your chosen country like the back of their hand. They’re part guide, part translator, and full-time adventurer. On G Adventures’ Solo-ish tours, you’re always guided by a local woman, part of our mission to empower women in the tourism industry.
We promote ethical and sustainable travel
G Adventures’ trips are rooted in sustainability. We’ve designed them to give back to the communities you visit through experiences that are authentic, meaningful, and ethical. We prioritize community-run homestays, meals with local families, and hands-on cultural experiences that deeply connect you to a place.
A balance of adventure and downtime
Landing in a new country and experiencing a new culture with new people is a lot all at the same time, and we get that. G Adventures’ itineraries are created with first-time travellers in mind, blending just the right amount of activity and downtime. Expect a mix of group adventures, time for you, and time for making special memories.
Ideal trips for first-time solo travellers
First-time solo traveller and worrying about safety? You’re not the only one. G Adventures’ Solo-ish tours are made for you. On these trips, everyone is travelling solo, but no one is alone. You bond over shared meals, new experiences, and lots of laughs, all while feeling 100% safe and supported. If you want your own space at night, you can choose the “My Own Room “option and have the best of both worlds.
Getting to know you
The first three days of Solo-ish tours are designed to break the ice. Day one? A welcome dinner. Day two? A group adventure in the heart of the community. Day three is G Day, a full lineup of fun and adventure. Don’t worry, there’s always a Me Day for when you want to do your own thing.
What type of tour should you choose?
The hardest decision you have to make is choosing where to go. With so many G Adventures travel styles and tour options, it’s natural to wonder what the best group tours are for first-time travellers.
If you want a balance of must-see highlights and free time, Classic tours are ideal for first-time travellers. Younger solo travellers often choose the 18-to-Thirtysomethings trips, which are budget-friendly, social, and full of energy. If you’re a student, you’ll love the extra savings with G Adventures’ student discount deals.
Local Living tours slow things down and keep you in one place longer with homestays, a great choice for travellers seeking cultural immersion. For the curious traveller, National Geographic Journeys combine comfort with deeper learning experiences while supporting community projects along the way. Whichever type of G Adventure you choose, your trip includes G for Good Moments, experiences that allow you to travel responsibly and give back to the community.
Best tours for first-time travellers
These G Adventures tours open the door to the world for first-time explorers. Here’s where to catch the travel bug.
Costa Rica Quest
A lively nine-day adventure starting and ending in San José, with amazing things to do in Costa Rica, including volcanoes, rainforests, and local culture.
– Just the right length: long enough to feel adventurous and short enough not to overwhelm.
– A mix of nature, wildlife, and comfort that makes it a great starter trip.
Experience it for yourself on: Costa Rica Quest
Southeast Asia Discovery
An immersive tour through Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos in one month, with street food, cultural visits, and seaside adventures.
– Great guidance from your CEO for exploring busy cities and navigating local customs.
– Fun adventures perfect for young travellers and culture-curious first-timers.
Experience it for yourself on: Southeast Asia Discovery: Seasides and Street Food
Highlights of Morocco
A 15-day journey from Casablanca to Marrakech through kasbahs, Sahara dunes, and colourful markets.
– Combines culture, history, and natural beauty in one trip.
– Safe, structured, and visually stunning for curious first-timers looking for sun-soaked adventure.
Experience it for yourself on: Highlights of Morocco
Machu Picchu Adventure
A bucket-list trek to Peru’s legendary Inca ruins.
– All the logistics are taken care of for you, from permits to the best local guides.
– Reliable trail support makes this big adventure approachable for beginners.
Experience it for yourself on: Machu Picchu Adventure
Best of Iceland
A scenic loop from Reykjavík with impressive Icelandic sights, including waterfalls, glacier lagoons, and black-sand beaches.
– A fast and fun-packed trip through beautiful scenery and along dramatic coastlines.
– Access to stunning landscapes without needing hardcore hiking skills.
Experience it for yourself on: Best of Iceland
Journeys: Iconic Portugal & Spain
A relaxed deep-dive into Iberian culture with wine, tapas, and historic cities.
– National Geographic Journeys travel style means more comfort and insider experiences.
– Ideal if you want a culturally rich first trip at a gentler pace.
Experience it for yourself on: Journeys: Iconic Portugal & Spain
USA National Parks Explorer
A 16-day road trip-style adventure through some of the country’s most iconic parks, such as Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon.
– Escape from reality and marvel at the greatest landscapes and animals in the U.S.
– Perfect for outdoorsy beginners who want to wander in the wilderness without leaving their comfort zone.
Experience it for yourself on: USA National Parks Explorer
The Best of Eastern Europe
A multi-country 14-day trip from Berlin to Budapest.
– Take in six countries in one trip without any of the planning stress.
– A wonderful mix of culture and history through some of Eastern Europe’s greatest landmarks.
Experience it for yourself on: The Best of Eastern Europe
Solo-ish Down Under
An energetic, social adventure through New Zealand and Australia designed specifically for solo travellers.
– No “odd one out” worries while you immerse yourself in local culture.
– A fun way to explore two dream destinations with built-in travel pals.
Experience it for yourself on: Solo-ish Down Under
Essential India
A whirlwind loop from Delhi, taking in some of India’s biggest highlights.
– Packed with iconic sights like the Taj Mahal, accompanied by expert guides.
– Structured and safe so you can focus on soaking up the colour, culture, and spiritual energy.
Experience it for yourself on: Essential India
Tips for first-time travellers
Your first big trip? Exciting. Nerve-wracking. Possibly both at the same time. To make things smoother (and way more fun), here are a few smart tips to keep in mind before you zip up that suitcase.
Pack smart
Bring comfy walking shoes, a portable power bank, and some local currency for when cards aren’t accepted.
Sort out your paperwork
Travel insurance is a must. Check whether vaccinations are recommended for your destination. Don’t forget to check your passport expiry date — some countries require six months’ validity. Apply for visas well in advance.
Make copies of important documents
Snap photos of your passport, visa, and travel insurance in case your bag goes missing.
Understand the vibe
G Adventures tours are social and flexible, but it’s still important to follow group travel etiquette. Expect small groups, the option to join or skip activities, and sometimes shared rooms unless you choose a “My Own Room” upgrade.
Check luggage rules
Airlines can be sneaky with weight limits, so weigh your bag before you head out.
Learn a few phrases in the local language
Even a simple “hello” or “thank you” goes a long way.
Eat local
Skip the tourist traps, ask your CEO what he or she recommends, and dive into the local food scene.
Inform your bank
Tell your bank you’re travelling to avoid blocked cards and expensive international phone calls to get it sorted out.
Decide how to stay connected
Figure out whether your phone will work in your destination country, or plan to buy an international SIM card before you go or a local SIM card when you arrive.
Your first adventure starts here
Your first trip abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. G Adventures’ tours make travelling simple, safe, and unforgettable. With expert guidance from local CEOs, small groups that feel like instant community, and all the planning stress taken off your hands, G Adventures’ tours for first-time travellers blend freedom with support in just the right way. Discover authentic cultural moments and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with travelling responsibly and sustainably.
