13 excellent and different guided tours across North America. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, level of luxury, and adventure.
North America is a very diverse region of the American continent, full of unique tourist destinations that attract millions of visitors every year. Composed of three main countries, the United States, Canada and Mexico, it offers an impressive variety of landscapes, cultures and experiences for travelers.
The US is known for its iconic cities, such as New York, Los Angeles and Miami, each with its own unique personality. Additionally, the country is home to incredible national parks such as the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite National Park, which provide tourists with the opportunity to explore lush nature and admire spectacular views.
Canada has natural beauty, making it an unmissable destination for nature lovers. The Rocky Mountains have spectacular trails and breathtaking landscapes, and cities like Vancouver and Toronto present a unique combination of modern urbanism and natural beauty.
Mexico, in the southern part of North America, is full of culture, history and paradisiacal beaches. Cities like Mexico City and Cancún offer a rich cultural experience, with museums, archaeological sites and vibrant cuisine. Mexican beaches attract tourists from all over the world.
In short, tourism in North America is an unforgettable journey, where travelers can explore everything from vibrant metropolises to untouched natural landscapes, immersing themselves in the cultural richness and diversity that characterize this fascinating region of the world.
10 main tourist attractions in North America
Before we delve into the main topic of this article, which is the best tours, it’s worth highlighting some of the most popular tourist destinations in North America to facilitate your search for excursions, itineraries and tours.
As previously mentioned, North America is a fascinating region. Below, I made a list of the top 10 points of interest and tourist cities that deserve to be explored in North America:
- Grand Canyon, USA: A geological wonder located in the state of Arizona, offering spectacular views and stunning trails for nature lovers;
- Yellowstone National Park, USA: The world’s first national park, located primarily in Wyoming, known for its hot springs, geysers and diverse wildlife;
Banff National Park, Canada: A nature lover’s paradise with crystal-clear lakes, towering mountain peaks and an abundance of wildlife, located in the Rocky Mountains; - Mexico City, Mexico: A vibrant and cultural metropolis that combines ancient history with a modern scene, highlighted by colonial architecture and archaeological sites;
- New York City, USA: The country’s cultural and financial center, famous for iconic skyscrapers such as the Empire State Building and the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square;
- Rocky Mountains, Canada: A majestic mountain range that stretches across several Canadian provinces, providing stunning scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities;
- Cancún, Mexico: A coastal city in the Mexican Caribbean, famous for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, as well as being a starting point for exploring the ancient Mayan civilization;
- Yosemite National Park, USA: A natural treasure in California, known for its towering rock formations, waterfalls and unique variety of flora and fauna;
- Toronto, Canada: A cosmopolitan city on the shores of Lake Ontario, offering a mix of cultures, modern architecture and the iconic CN Tower:
- Orlando, USA: A popular theme park destination, including Disney World and Universal Studios, providing entertainment for all ages.
Is it better to travel independently or on group tours in North America?
Regardless of which choice you make to explore North America, whether on your own or on a group tour, both options have unique advantages and disadvantages.
Opting for an independent journey provides greater flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities according to your preferences. This allows you to explore North America at your own pace, deciding when and how to participate in different experiences. Additionally, this approach can be more cost-effective, as you have control over spending according to your choices.
However, an independent trip requires thorough planning, involving research into accommodation, transportation and activities. You need to be prepared to face potential challenges, such as language barriers, and take additional safety precautions, especially in more remote areas.
On the other hand, a group tour, accompanied by a guide, offers the opportunity to share the experience with other travelers who share similar interests. Traveling in a group can also provide an added sense of security, especially when led by an experienced guide with extensive knowledge of North America.
However, this option may somewhat restrict your freedom to explore the region independently, as you will be following a predefined itinerary and schedules established by the group.
In summary, the decision between traveling independently or in a group in North America will depend on your personal preferences. Consider your interests, time availability, budget, and comfort level when making your decision.
|
Pros of traveling on a group tour |
Pros of traveling on your own |
| Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests | Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities |
| Peaceful and fun group experience | Autonomy to follow your own schedule |
| More safety when riding in a group, especially with an experienced local guide | Freedom to explore Iceland without having to stick to a schedule |
| Less need for planning and research as the tour already provides accommodation, transport and activities | Potential savings, since depending on the choices it can be cheaper |
| Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to reach alone | Greater challenge and opportunity to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting your own trip |
13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore North America
Best North American Tours and Itineraries for Guided Small-Group Adventures
1. G Adventures – Best of California (9 Days)
Desert heat, pine forests, and coastal breezes are the main draws of this journey through some of the most stunning landscapes the American West has to offer.
Embark on a journey to see the tops of the world’s tallest trees in Sequoia National Park, gaze at the majesty of Yosemite from the famous Tunnel View, and explore the California coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
2. G Adventures – Active West Coast and Canadian Rockies (16 Days)
Enjoy an adventure that takes you hiking in both the Canadian Rockies and coastal British Columbia on this 16-day tour from Calgary to Vancouver.
Explore the indigenous history, unforgettable landscapes and vibrant cowboy culture of Western Canada. Visit canyons, climb mountains, discover alpine lakes, hike through Pacific rainforests, get lost in ancient forests, admire the emerald hue of Lake Louise and take in stunning views.
3. Intrepid – Best of Mexico (15 Days)
Explore Mayan history at the incredible ruins of Chichen Itza and visit indigenous communities near charming San Cristobal de las Casas. Indulge in a traditional Pibil feast with a Mayan family and learn about Zapotec culture over lunch in a local home.
Stroll through the charming streets of Mérida, marvel at the alebrijes of Oaxaca and relax on the beaches of Playa del Carmen. From museums and ruins to canyons and waterfalls, this journey will give you a taste of Mexico at its best.
4. Intrepid – Best of Alaska (10 Days)
Be prepared to discover the captivating beauty of Alaska on this 10-day journey. Travel from Anchorage through forests, around mountain ranges and along the spectacular coastline to the Kenai Peninsula.
Explore the pristine bushlands of Denali National Park and keep your eyes peeled for bears, caribou and moose. Sail past glaciers, killer whales and puffins and experience the tranquil majesty of this vast wilderness set amongst stunning landscapes.
On this tour you’ll explore Homer, Seward, Talkeetna, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Denali National Park, enjoying plenty of free time to customize your activities, ensuring you do exactly what you want!
Best North America Tours and Itineraries for Young Singles Groups (Ages 18-35)
5. Contiki – Boot, Scoot ‘N’ Blues (15 Days)
Looking for the ultimate journey through the southern United States? Embark on an in-depth 15-day adventure filled with irresistible delights, bright lights, stunning national parks and nights filled with music.
This trip will take you dancing through the sights and charms of cities like New Orleans, Nashville, Memphis, and Austin, to name just a few. Top it all off with a spectacular luxury camp in the Smoky Mountains, to the seductive sounds of sweet Southern jazz and the trills of songbirds.
6. Contiki – The Powder Rush (9 Days)
Love life in the mountains, but also enjoy exploring? This group adventure is a combination ski and snowboard vacation and trip all rolled into one journey. This is the perfect winter experience in some of the best winter destinations in Canada.
7. Topdeck – Delve Deep: Mexico (11 Days)
Here you will experience the real Mexico, filled with imposing temples, fascinating culture, otherworldly natural wonders and ancient Mayan heritage. Enjoy swimming stops, mouth-watering cuisine, breathtaking scenery and adventure-filled activities, plus plenty of free time to do whatever you want.
Best North American Luxury and Comfort Tours and Itineraries for Small Groups with Guides
8. Trafalgar – Historic Highlights (8 Days)
Explore a young nation on this journey that takes you to Capitol Hill, George Washington’s home, Gettysburg battlefield recreations, and dinner at a haunted tavern.
This “New England” tour immerses you in the past, allowing you to talk to blacksmiths in Colonial Williamsburg and visit the monuments on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
9. Trafalgar – Enchanting Canadian Maritimes (10 Days)
Feast on fresh Atlantic lobsters, hear local stories of the sea and take part in lively Celtic culture as you explore sea cliffs, centuries-old towns and the rugged way of life of Nova Scotians, along with Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, exploring the legends and traditions of the Mi’kmaq.
10. Insight Vacations – Best of Eastern Canada & USA (16 Days)
Explore the top destinations of two North American countries on this 16-day guided tour.
Stroll through Queen’s Park in downtown Toronto and then get up close to the world’s most famous waterfall, Niagara Falls. Tour the grand mansions of Montreal and enter the Notre-Dame Basilica. In Maine, indulge in decadent, authentic lobster, fresh from a nearby harbor.
Walk with a guide along part of Boston’s Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail featuring 16 historically significant sites. In Philadelphia, see the Liberty Bell. In New York City, meet local vendors at a neighborhood public market and sample local specialties.
Best tours to North America from Tourradar (best site to search and compare tours in North America of different durations, styles, prices, and operators)
11. Tourradar – Mexico City Stopover (3 Days)
Explore Mexico City for 3 incredible and unforgettable days! Includes hotel accommodation, plus an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.
12. Tourradar – Winter Wonders (17 Days)
From Calgary to Whitehorse, this is a cultural tour to enjoy the winter beauties of 5 destinations in Canada! This tour includes meals and transportation.
13. Tourradar – East Coast United States and Canadian Discovery (16 Days)
Start in Boston and end in New York City! With the in-depth cultural tour you will have a 16-day tour package that will take you around Boston and 8 other destinations in North America. It includes hotel accommodation, plus an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.
Concluding…
North America reveals itself as a captivating destination for those in search of cultural, historical experiences and exciting adventures.
With a wide range of tour and excursion options available, it is crucial to carry out detailed research when choosing the company that best aligns with your needs and expectations.
Be sure to review reviews from other travelers and details of accommodations offered to ensure a smooth and safe trip. However, regardless of the company chosen, one certainty prevails: exploring North America is a truly unique experience in a lifetime!
So, get ready for a memorable journey and embark on this adventure across the continent!
