Trafalgar has expanded its guided touring portfolio with the launch of Trafalgar Small Group Tours, a new collection of 22 itineraries limited to a maximum of 18 guests.
The move comes as demand for more intimate and immersive travel experiences continues to grow, with the new tours designed for culturally curious travellers seeking deeper local connections and access to experiences beyond the reach of larger coach tours.
The collection targets travellers typically aged 40 and over and features story-driven accommodation, varied transport options and exclusive local experiences.
Melissa DaSilva, deputy CEO and chief sales officer at TTC Tour Brands, said the new offering responds to one of the strongest trends currently shaping the touring sector.
“Small group travel is one of the biggest opportunities we’re seeing in guided touring right now and this collection is our answer to that,” DaSilva said.
“These trips are designed for a different type of traveller than a classic tour – someone who seeks experiences that bring travellers even closer to the people, places and stories that make a destination real.”
Andrew Young, senior vice president of sales at TTC Tour Brands, said the launch builds on the success of small group itineraries already offered through sister brand Insight Vacations.
“By utilising smaller vehicles and an 18-guest cap, we can open up bespoke destinations and boutique stays impossible on classic touring,” Young said.
“This isn’t a classic tour squeezed into a small format – it’s built for small groups from day one.”
According to Trafalgar, the new itineraries were developed following extensive customer and trade research and incorporate transport options better suited to each destination, including private vehicles, scenic rail journeys and local transit.
The company said the smaller format also allows access to community venues and experiences that would be difficult to accommodate with larger groups.
Among the new itineraries is San Sebastian and Beyond, which travels through southwest France and northern Spain and includes an exclusive Basque dining experience at a family-owned grill house in Getaria.
Meanwhile, Wild Encounters of Borneo features a private tour with the founder of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre and wildlife experiences in remote rainforest and wetland environments.
The collection also includes Best of South Africa, which combines safari experiences with a visit to a traditional village in Eswatini, where guests can meet locals, sample regional cuisine and take part in a drumming class.
Travel advisors can access more information and booking details through TTC’s Travel Advisor Portal.
