South America Luxury History Trips & Packages Tours & Trips

What travelers are saying

"Ok, it was at the end of the Covid crisis…BUT…no excuse for long hours on the bus with no movies, no discussion of our surroundings or fun facts/background on the areas/attractions that we’d see. Nothing at all regarding the Erie Canal. Not enough time at sights (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Niagara Falls). Bus driver took an hour driving all around the area before he could find where to park for the Henry Ford Museum. The Village was closed to us the day we were there for sanitation. We got to Niagara Falls very late and by the time we finished dinner, we could only glimpse a part of the falls from a good half mile up river. Never went to the vineyard at all, because a storm came up. The only part of the trip that went as planned was when we were actually on Mackinac…that was great! But, not good enough overall to ever make me want to use Tours of Distinction again. Plus, the company never even apologized for all the missteps."

What travelers are saying

"Wilderness Travel is the BEST company to choose for the Galapagos Islands! We went as a family of 7 and every expectation was blown out of the water. Their team in the office quickly and thoroughly answered all our questions leading up to the trip (and we had a lot), and once we arrived we felt like we had the islands entirely to ourselves! Obviously, the animals were incredible (I was able to see everything on my "wishlist"), but the trip leader is really who made this a once in a lifetime trip. Fernando was kind, patient, funny, and an encyclopedia of knowledge (of course I've forgotten 90% of what I learned already!) He would give short "presentations" at the end of most days explaining the history of the islands, the geology, evolution, Darwin, and how modern politics affect tourism (for better and worse), which added a whole other dimension to our experience.. The boat crew was also magical. We were welcomed with tea and hot snacks immediately after returning from snorkeling excursions, fresh juice and fruit after walks in the sun, and feasts every night with a shocking amount of variety in meals. We were also traveling with a young child and the staff was extremely helpful (even offered babysitting during dinner) in making our trip as easy as possible. We were on the boat "the Passion" and there was a wonderful outdoor dining table that we ate at almost every meal, giving us nearly 360-degree views of the islands as we sailed to the next destination. It's one of the nicest yachts I've been on -- multiple different areas to lounge, a big screen TV/movie area, spacious bedrooms, and there was even a HOT TUB on the top floor! We would go back again in a heartbeat!"

What travelers are saying

"Excellent tour guide & great choice of locations. Staff in head office - particularly "Lucky" who went the extra mile to assist when we need it."

What travelers are saying

"Personalized planning service from the company about what to expect, daily excursions, flights, and packing. The tour guides are the best in the business, and travelers have amazing experiences. I have traveled with the company for 7 trips, and have 2 more in the future. The company by far is the best in the travel business and is highly recommended."

What travelers are saying

"Great experience. The whole trip was well planned and we didn’t have to worry about a thing! Services of the guide: The guides were very friendly and knowledgeable. They spoke English very well. They also took lots of pictures to capture our trip. Services of the drivers: Good drivers. Always arrived on time. Hotels services: Hotel had everything we needed."

What travelers are saying

"Great experience. The whole trip was well planned and we didn’t have to worry about a thing! Services of the guide: The guides were very friendly and knowledgeable. They spoke English very well. They also took lots of pictures to capture our trip. Services of the drivers: Good drivers. Always arrived on time. Hotels services: Hotel had everything we needed."

What travelers are saying

"Our cruise with the cormorant was a real experience. And the organization, service and crew were really excellent. Thank you for the great memories we could take."

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."