Best California Tour Companies

Search 77 California tour operators and travel companies, with 234 reviews.

# 1
of 77 matches
4.6
18,636 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: families, 18-35, 35-55, 55+

Health Safety +

What they’re known for
Famous for their expert local guides that help ease unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each trip.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.6 Avg. Rating for California Trips|18,636 Reviews for California Trips
All Explore! company reviews
Why we love them
They travel to places beyond the typical tourist locations and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” travelers want.
# 2
of 77 matches
4.5
4,875 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises
Age Range: families, students, 18-35, 35-55

Health Safety +

What they’re known for
Small group tours for all types of travelers at a range of different price points and trips to off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.5 Avg. Rating for California Trips|4,875 Reviews for California Trips
All Intrepid Travel company reviews
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.

All California Tour Companies

Discover the diverse beauty of California with a curated selection of tours from top travel agencies. From the sun-soaked beaches of Los Angeles to the towering redwoods of Northern California, explore iconic landmarks and hidden gems tailored to every traveler.
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# 3
of 77 matches
4.7
19,421 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: 35-55, 55+

Health Safety +

Cancellation Policy
What they’re known for
Global trips to a wide array of destinations with a focus on themed adventures, exciting physical activities and learning about local cultures.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.7 Avg. Rating for California Trips|19,421 Reviews for California Trips
All Exodus Adventure Travels company reviews
Why we love them
With a wide range of trip styles, Exodus caters to every type of traveler out there- even those with specific interests from cycling to winter hiking.
# 4
of 77 matches
4.8
4,133 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, River Cruises
Age Range: 55+
What they’re known for
A huge variety of expertly-guided international trips that include cultural activities unique to the destination.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.8 Avg. Rating for California Trips|4,133 Reviews for California Trips
All Collette company reviews
Why we love them
With a history that spans back to 1918, they have unparalleled expertise in the guided tour industry and can cater to all types of travelers.
# 5
of 77 matches
4.8
104 reviews
Type : Regional Expert
Service level : luxury
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: families, students

Health Safety

What they’re known for
Award-winning guided adventure tours to national parks in Western USA and Canada for outdoors enthusiasts.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.8 Avg. Rating for California Trips|104 Reviews for California Trips
All Bindlestiff Tours company reviews
Why we love them
They’re experts in national park tours and offer something for everyone- even those that are not keen on camping or lots of physical activity.
# 6
of 77 matches
4.7
14,429 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, River Cruises, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: 55+
What they’re known for
Industry-leading guided tours to classic bucket list destinations and attractions around the world.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.7 Avg. Rating for California Trips|14,429 Reviews for California Trips
All Globus company reviews
Why we love them
Despite being one of the most established names in the travel business, they continue to innovate and offer new top-notch experiences.
# 7
of 77 matches
5
12 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours
Age Range: 35-55, 55+

Health Safety

What they’re known for
Carefully selected boutique accommodations, and experiences that are authentic and unique.
Why we love them
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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for California Trips|12 Reviews for California Trips
All Culture Trip company reviews
Why we love them
They lovingly design their trips, relying on an in-depth understanding of the destinations.
# 8
of 77 matches
5
48 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: families, students, 18-35, 35-55, 55+

Health Safety +

What they’re known for
Well-run group tours that remain affordable despite having many premium features.
Why we love them
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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for California Trips|48 Reviews for California Trips
All Omega Tours company reviews
Why we love them
They discover the best local partners, providing trips that are both efficient and authentic.
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# 9
of 77 matches
4
577 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : budget
Trip Style: Group Tours
What they’re known for
Value vacations for savvy travelers willing to cut back on the extras in exchange for more activities and time spent at bucket list destinations.
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Reviews

4 Avg. Rating for California Trips|577 Reviews for California Trips
All Cosmos company reviews
# 10
of 77 matches
N/A NEW!
Type : Local Specialist
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
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Reviews

Avg. Rating for California Trips|0 Reviews for California Trips
# 11
of 77 matches
5
6 reviews
Type : Local Specialist
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours
Age Range: 18-35, 35-55, 55+
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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for California Trips|6 Reviews for California Trips
All AmeriCan Cycling Adventures company reviews
# 12
of 77 matches
5
24 reviews
Type : Local Specialist
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: families, students, 18-35, 35-55, 55+

Health Safety

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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for California Trips|24 Reviews for California Trips
All InquisiTours company reviews
# 13
of 77 matches
4.7
43 reviews
Type : Regional Expert
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
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Reviews

4.7 Avg. Rating for California Trips|43 Reviews for California Trips
All LifeCycle Adventures company reviews
# 14
of 77 matches
4.5
40 reviews
Type : Regional Expert
Service level : budget
Trip Style: Group Tours
Age Range: families, 18-35, 35-55, 55+
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Reviews

4.5 Avg. Rating for California Trips|40 Reviews for California Trips
All Caravan Tours company reviews
# 15
of 77 matches
4.9
40 reviews
Type : Regional Expert
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries
Age Range: families, 35-55, 55+
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Reviews

4.9 Avg. Rating for California Trips|40 Reviews for California Trips
All Sojourn Bicycling & Active Vacations company reviews
# 16
of 77 matches
4.5
8 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
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Reviews

4.5 Avg. Rating for California Trips|8 Reviews for California Trips
All 2 by 2 Holidays company reviews
# 17
of 77 matches
4.4
330 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises, River Cruises
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Reviews

4.4 Avg. Rating for California Trips|330 Reviews for California Trips
All Tauck company reviews
# 18
of 77 matches
4.9
150 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries
Age Range: students, 18-35, 35-55
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Reviews

4.9 Avg. Rating for California Trips|150 Reviews for California Trips
All Go Ahead Tours company reviews
# 19
of 77 matches
4.8
64 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, River Cruises, Custom Itineraries
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Reviews

4.8 Avg. Rating for California Trips|64 Reviews for California Trips
All MT Sobek (Mountain Travel Sobek) company reviews
# 20
of 77 matches
4.9
117 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : luxury
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries
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Reviews

4.9 Avg. Rating for California Trips|117 Reviews for California Trips
All Country Walkers company reviews
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Best California Tour Companies

Search 77 California tour operators and travel companies, with 234 reviews.
California Tour Companies

California Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
234  Reviews
See all California tour reviews
Excellent
159
Great
31
Average
7
Disappointing
3
Terrible
1
L

Lesley

Oct 2015

Written on

I enjoy intrepid but the style of

I enjoy intrepid but the style of travel doesn't suit everyone.

C

Carol

Oct 2015

Written on

Good size group, great tour leader (on

Good size group, great tour leader (on this occasion), pretty good value for money on the whole.

a

alexandra

Sep 2015

Written on

good balance of guidance and free time

good balance of guidance and free time

R

Rodney

Sep 2015

Written on

Inexperienced leadership resulting in some wasted time.

Inexperienced leadership resulting in some wasted time. Too much time traveling in buses and small vans. Our leader was not confident in communicating information to...

R

Ric

Sep 2015

Written on

Very knowledgeable, competent, personable guide. Fun and

Very knowledgeable, competent, personable guide. Fun a...

Write a Review

What to Look for In a California Tour Company

Selecting a perfect California tour company for you is key to experiencing the state's rich culture and stunning landscapes. Travelstride helps you find trusted California tour operators, ensuring your journey through the Golden State is smooth, enriching, and tailored to your preferences.

How to Plan a California Trip

Choosing the right California travel agency can help you select tours that can significantly enhance your travel experience. With Travelstride's tools and resources, you can create a memorable California adventure, ensuring every aspect of your trip aligns with your expectations. Here’s how to effectively plan your California journey, with every detail tailored to your preferences and needs.

Choosing the Best California Travel Agency

Selecting a perfect California tour company for you is key to experiencing the state's rich culture and stunning landscapes. Travelstride helps you find trusted California tour operators, ensuring your journey through the Golden State is smooth, enriching, and tailored to your preferences.

Expertise and Local Knowledge
Opting for a California tour company with deep local knowledge ensures your trip is enriched by insights that bring the state’s vibrant culture and history to life. Expert guides can offer unique perspectives on landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, or the historic missions along El Camino Real.

Travelstride’s detailed reviews and profiles help you identify companies with the expertise to provide an authentic and immersive California experience.

Reputation and Reviews
When choosing a tour company, it is essential to look at reviews and past traveler experiences. High ratings and positive feedback often indicate reliable service and well-organized itineraries.

On Travelstride, you can filter and sort companies based on ratings and testimonials, ensuring you select a provider known for delivering exceptional experiences, whether you're exploring the stunning vineyards of Napa Valley, surfing in Malibu, or hiking in Yosemite National Park.

Expert Itineraries and Flexibility
Look for companies offering well-structured itineraries that cover California’s diverse attractions, such as Big Sur's coastal beauty, Disneyland's entertainment, or Death Valley's natural wonders.

Reputable travel agencies offer flexible itineraries, allowing you to customize your experience to focus on what interests you most. Whether exploring the art scene in Los Angeles, enjoying a wine tasting in Sonoma, or visiting the tech hubs of Silicon Valley, a flexible itinerary ensures a personalized adventure.

Quality of Accommodations and Transportation
Select California travel agencies that offer unique accommodations, such as a boutique hotel in San Francisco, a beachside resort in Santa Monica, or a rustic cabin in Lake Tahoe.

Reliable transportation is also crucial—whether it’s a private car for exploring the Pacific Coast Highway, a tour bus for navigating Los Angeles, or a scenic train ride through the Sierra Nevada. Travelstride provides detailed descriptions and ratings to help you find tours with the best accommodations and transportation options.

Health and Safety Protocols
Choose companies with strong safety measures, including emergency plans and secure transportation. This is especially important if your itinerary includes exploring Hollywood's crowded streets, hiking in remote areas of Sequoia National Park, or attending large events like Coachella.

Ensuring your tour operator has clear safety protocols for busy tourist spots like Pier 39 or during major events helps guarantee a secure and enjoyable trip.

Value for Money
Tour packages should clearly state what’s included—accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and transportation—so you can easily compare options. Some companies might offer unique experiences, such as a guided tour of Alcatraz, a sunset cruise in San Diego Bay, or a visit to the iconic Hearst Castle.

Travelstride’s filters help you find tours that offer exceptional value, ensuring a memorable experience within your budget.

Personalized Services
Make sure the California tour operator can accommodate specific requests, like dietary needs, room preferences, or special requirements.

For example, travelers with mobility issues might appreciate tours that offer private car transfers to key attractions, while food lovers might enjoy tours that include stops at top-rated restaurants in San Francisco or cooking classes featuring California cuisine.

Personalized services can greatly enhance your trip, ensuring it perfectly suits your needs and interests.

Commitment to Sustainability
People are increasingly mindful of sustainability and ethical practices. Choose tour companies that prioritize eco-friendly initiatives, such as reducing carbon footprints, supporting local artisans, and promoting conservation efforts. 

A trip arranged by an eco-friendly travel agency might include staying at eco-conscious hotels in the Bay Area, supporting organic farms in Napa Valley, or participating in beach clean-up projects in Santa Cruz. Prioritizing sustainable travel ensures a positive impact on California's beautiful environment and local communities

Planning Your California Tour With Travelstride

Choosing the right California travel agency can help you select tours that can significantly enhance your travel experience. With Travelstride's tools and resources, you can create a memorable California adventure, ensuring every aspect of your trip aligns with your expectations. Here’s how to effectively plan your California journey, with every detail tailored to your preferences and needs.

Assess Your Interests and Preferences
Begin by identifying what excites you about California—whether it's exploring the stunning coastlines, tasting world-renowned wines, or hiking through majestic national parks. Knowing your interests will help you select suitable activities and destinations.

For example, if you're interested in natural beauty and outdoor activities, you might choose tours that explore Yosemite National Park or the Pacific Coast Highway. Using Travelstride filters, you can find tours that cater to your specific interests, whether in nature exploration, cultural immersion, or culinary experiences.

Choose the Right Itinerary
Once you have a few options, review the itineraries to ensure they align with your travel style and interests. Travelstride offers detailed itineraries that encompass California’s major attractions and unique experiences.

For example, families with kids might prefer tours that include a magical visit to Disneyland in Anaheim. Wine enthusiasts will want to ensure their itinerary features a stop in Napa Valley to enjoy some of the best vineyards and tastings. 

Similarly, if you're into iconic landmarks, you’ll want to include the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco on your list. An ideal itinerary can also feature stays in charming coastal towns like Santa Barbara for a laid-back vibe or bustling urban centers like Los Angeles for a taste of Hollywood glamour, offering a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Budget and Value for Money
Travelstride categorizes tours by price range, allowing you to explore California vacation packages that fit your budget. Pricing is transparent, with precise details on what’s included in each tour package.

Compare these inclusions—such as guided excursions, meals, and accommodations—to ensure you get the best value. Some tours might offer additional perks, like a guided hike in the Sierra Nevada or a wine-tasting experience in Sonoma.

Consider the Group Size and Tour Type
The size and type of your tour group can significantly influence your experience. Travelstride allows you to filter tours based on group size—smaller groups often provide a more personalized experience, while larger groups can be more budget-friendly and social.

Decide whether you prefer a guided group tour, a private tour, or a self-guided adventure. For instance, a guided group tour might take you through the iconic sights of San Francisco, while a private tour could offer exclusive experiences like a private visit to a Hollywood studio. A self-guided adventure allows you to explore California’s diverse landscapes at your own pace.

Choose Service Level
Travelstride allows you to filter tour companies by service level—luxury, standard, or budget—to choose tours that match your desired comfort level. While all tours provide comfortable accommodations and transportation, specifics can vary.

Each tour on Travelstride is rated with a lodging scale, helping you decide whether you’ll stay in cozy inns, boutique hotels, or luxury resorts. Transportation options may include private transfers, scenic train rides, or guided coach tours. For instance, a luxury California tour might consist of staying in Beverly Hills' top-tier hotels and private transportation to iconic destinations.

Check Reviews and Ratings
Use the filter for most-reviewed tours to choose trips frequently rated by fellow travelers. Reading reviews can provide valuable insights into what you can expect from a tour.

For example, a review might highlight an outstanding guide who led a Napa Valley wine tour or praise a coastal inn's unique accommodations. You might also read about unforgettable experiences, such as a guided kayak tour in Monterey Bay or a scenic drive through Big Sur, which can help you make an informed decision.

Assess Your Fitness Level
Physically demanding activities like hiking in Joshua Tree National Park or surfing in Malibu can be challenging. It’s essential to check the Physical Level scale of the tours or use appropriate filters to find options that match your fitness level.

Understanding the physical demands of the tour will help you prepare and manage expectations, especially for travelers with health considerations or limited mobility.

On Travelstride, tours are categorized into five primary physical levels:

  • Very Easy: Minimal physical activity, such as relaxed beach vacations or city sightseeing.
  • Easy: Light walking tours with plenty of rest, focusing on cultural experiences like museum visits.
  • Moderate: Active itineraries may include extensive walking and light hiking, such as exploring Griffith Park's trails.
  • Strenuous: More demanding adventures, like hiking through the trails of Yosemite or exploring the rugged coastline.
  • Extreme: Highly challenging activities like multi-day backpacking trips in the Sierra Nevada or intense outdoor adventures.

Get Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Travelstride can assist you in finding suitable insurance options to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey.

Explore top travel insurance providers and understand what to consider before purchasing a plan, ensuring you’re covered for everything from medical emergencies to unexpected travel disruptions.

Prepare Necessary Documents
Ensure your identification and travel documents are current, and check if any specific permits are required for areas you plan to visit in California. Travelstride offers handy resources to provide reliable information and streamline your preparation process.

Make copies of important documents and keep digital backups for easy access. Additionally, include any medical certificates or health records needed for travel, especially if your tour includes remote or less accessible areas.

Custom Guided Tours
Travelstride lets you find and customize guided tours that meet your needs and preferences. Whether you require a private guide, special accommodations, or a tailor-made itinerary, custom-guided tours offer a more personalized travel experience.

  • Private Guides: Opt for a private guide to tailor the tour to your interests and pace, such as exploring California’s renowned wineries or historical landmarks.
  • Tailor-Made Itineraries: Customize your trip to include activities like surfing lessons in Santa Cruz or a road trip along the iconic Route 1.
Special Accommodations: Ensure all your specific needs, such as dietary restrictions or mobility aids, are met, whether arranging vegetarian meals during a tour of San Francisco or securing a room with accessibility features in a luxury resort in Palm Springs.
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