A great topic of discussion that was given to me by a subscriber on my latest article ‘How to see any country on a budget’ stated how tours play a big part of visiting a country. Deciding to pick between selecting a group tour or private tour while travelling can be a considerable task to overtake, especially if you are planning your flights and hotel. Having taken various tours, both individual and in a group, I will be talking about the pros and cons of both private and group tours, to help you decide when you take your next trip hopefully!
Private tours:
1) Cost
The number one factor why many opt for group tours instead of private tours is the price. It can be double sometimes triple the amount just to take a private tour. However, you get what you pay for and can have the day fit your wants and needs by the tour guide.
2) You can gain more knowledge
Your travel guide has more time to explain and share their expertise on a particular subject when its a one on one basis, or a small group of friends. Mostly you do get more interaction for your money.
3) No need to stop at tourist shops
Not all of the group tours that I have been on have done this, but a few have, and it does take out a chunk of time away from seeing and learning about the given culture you went to see. However, some stores do sell beautiful artisan products, and you may not have known about it if you had not gone with the tour guide.
Group tours:
1) You meet new people
When visiting a new country, going on group tours especially if you are a solo traveller, gives you an excellent opportunity to meet new people and potentially create new friendships.
2) Cost
If you are on a budget, but still wish to learn more about the country, then going on a group tour is great to expand your horizons and have a fun day out.
3) Limited time
Take into consideration that when you are on a group tour, you may be with more than ten or twenty other people, depending on the tours limit and this means the tour guide has more work on their hands. You may be limited on time and rushing around to complete the given activity list, so it may not be ideal if you are looking for a relaxing holiday.
Hopefully, whichever type of tour you decide to be a part of on your next adventure, that you have a great experience and learn more about the country’s treasures. As always I hope you have many happy travels, and if you have any experiences on either private or group tours and would like to share in the comments section to help fellow travellers feel free to do so.
Maria Hanako van Straaten 
A private tour is just a group tour that hasn’t found all of its tourists! I often join up with other travelers who have the same interests as me for a tour that was marketed as private. This is a really common way to do things in Mongolia, where you can post your preferred itinerary on the wall in any of the tour agencies and look to see if anyone else wants to join you (or join an existing group).
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That’s a great idea! Yes, gathering a big group of friends is a great way to have an awesome experience and pay less for the tour too!
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Indeed cost is a big consideration when it comes to taking a private tour.
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Yes I agree! The times I have taken private tours was because I had planned it beforehand and that certain place or country had been on my bucket list for a while so I wanted to make sure I gained as much knowledge as I could! Just in case I don’t make it back.
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Excellent and I have taken tourists on both but for sure a private tour is best as from my experience group tours are normally run by cooperatives and interested in profit. I don’t agree with private tours costing more I don’t charge my guests for tours as its a pleasure to show people around, I have even cooked for them all at no extra cost. It is important that a person really enjoys there stay.
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Yes I agree! Usually my private tours have always cost more than the group ones, it not a substantial amount at times. Depends on he location I guess. I would love to go on one of your tours! You sound like a great guide 😁
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You will be more than welcome. Spring is lovely in Sardinia.
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I bet! Sardinia looks like a dream! Definitely need to make time to visit 😁
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When you are ready.
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Thank you 🙂
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