As demand grows for more meaningful, immersive travel, AAT Kings has introduced a new Small Group touring range for 2026 and beyond. We spoke with Product Manager John Navarro about how these itineraries are designed, and what really changes when you travel with fewer people.
Q: When you start designing a Small Group itinerary, what’s the first question you ask yourself?
The first question is always, “Who is coming on this tour?’ Everything flows from that, the pace, accommodation, experiences, and even the destinations we choose. Understanding the guest is the foundation of every itinerary we design.
Q: How have traveller expectations changed in recent years, and how has that influenced Small Group tours for 2026?
We have seen a shift towards more intimate, experience-driven travel. Travellers are increasingly looking for what they see as a “trip of a lifetime”, which is something deeper, more personal and more memorable. That shift has been a key driver in how we’ve shaped our Small Group offering.
Q: What fundamentally changes when you’re designing for 16-24 travellers instead of a larger group?
Smaller group sizes open doors. From a product perspective, it allows us to look at destinations and experiences that simply wouldn’t be possible with a larger group, whether that’s access, logistics, or the type of operator we can work with. It gives us much greater flexibility and creative freedom.
Q: How do you balance iconic must-see experiences with lesser-known moments?
Iconic sights are part of every AAT Kings tour, whether it’s a Classic or Small Group journey. What changes with Small Group touring is our ability to layer in those hidden gems. These are often experiences that are harder to access with a larger group, and they really come into their own when travelling with fewer people.
Q: How do you think about pace when designing a Small Group itinerary?
We always return to that original question… who is this tour for? Our Small Group tours are designed to be accessible, so pace is critical. A thoughtful consideration of where to add multi-night stays allows guests to see more while still enjoying each destination. It’s about maximising the journey without it ever feeling rushed.
We focus on the fundamentals, centrally located, comfortable accommodation and well-paced itineraries, then layer in elevated moments that add real value.
Q: Local connection is a core pillar. How do you build that authentically?
We work very closely with our operators, many of whom we see as long-term partners. In some cases, we collaborate with them to create bespoke experiences exclusively for AAT Kings guests. The goal is to deliver moments that travellers wouldn’t easily find on their own, while ensuring those experiences feel genuine and meaningful.
Q: How does the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® philosophy influence Small Group itineraries?
Smaller groups allow us to work with smaller, purpose-driven operators. A great example is Dunedin Craft Distillers in New Zealand. They produce botanical spirits from surplus bread that would otherwise go to landfill. Our Small Group guests take part in their “Bread to Bottle” tour, seeing firsthand how waste is transformed into something extraordinary. It’s engaging, inspiring and aligns perfectly with our values.
Q: What does ‘premium quality at an accessible price point’ mean in practice?
It’s about being intentional. We focus on the fundamentals, centrally located, comfortable accommodation and well-paced itineraries, then layer in elevated moments that add real value. Premium isn’t about a luxury price tag, it’s about balance, care and attention to detail.
Q: Is there a destination where Small Group travel really shines?
Absolutely! Fiordland National Park is a standout. On select Small Group tours, guests stay overnight aboard the Milford Mariner expedition ship. While many tours include a day cruise, waking up in Milford Sound, surrounded by untouched wilderness, is something only Small Group travellers get to experience. It’s incredibly special.
Q: When guests finish a Small Group tour, how do you hope they feel?
Inspired, relaxed and rejuvenated, with new friendships formed along the way. I hope they’ve truly immersed themselves in the destination and feel they’ve seen the very best of what the country has to offer, guided by passionate and knowledgeable Travel Directors and Driver Guides.
