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ToursSelf-Guided & Independent

Self-Guided & Independent Luxury Tours & Trips

1,114 Self-Guided & Independent trips. Tours from 248 tour companies. 1,431 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating.

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27 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Luxury
Mexico (Cabo & Baja): See & Experience it ALL in 6 Days - 1st Class Custom Tours
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Mexico (Cabo & Baja): See & Experience it ALL in 6 Days - 1st Class Custom Tours

By Charlie The Traveler
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
Travelers report that traveling with CharlieTheTraveler is a life-changing experience, in the best possible way.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo

Highlights

  • Wine & Jazz Sunset Cruise with an Open Bar
  • Swimming Alongside Whale Sharks (from October to April only)
  • Interacting with Dolphins
  • Horseback Riding on the Beach
  • Rock Climbing
Show more

Themes

High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"CharlieTheTraveler far exceeded our expectations. You took care of our every need and I feel spoiled. We did not have to worry about anything. We will definitely use CharlieTheTraveler again on a future trip. Thank you so much for your attention to detail."

Trip dates & details
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-12%$2,828
6 days From$2,481

Health Safety

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21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand
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21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand

By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
40 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, Wellington

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
  • Either way, you will have an awesome time on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Sailing, Golf

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

Trip dates & details
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-12%$3,990
21 days From$3,500
Price updated 1 year+ ago

Generous cancellation

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Thailand (South): See & Experience it ALL in 11 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours
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Thailand (South): See & Experience it ALL in 11 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

By Charlie The Traveler
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
Travelers report that traveling with CharlieTheTraveler is a life-changing experience, in the best possible way.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Phuket

Highlights

  • Cooking Class Followed by Dinner
  • Rock Climbing over a Tropical Beach (optional)
  • Several Boat Daytrips to Exotic Islands
  • Canoeing Through Lagoons & Rivers
  • Kayaking Inside Caves
Show more

Themes

Climbing & Mountaineering, Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Education / Learning, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Trekking & Expeditions, Photography, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"CharlieTheTraveler far exceeded our expectations. You took care of our every need and I feel spoiled. We did not have to worry about anything. We will definitely use CharlieTheTraveler again on a future trip. Thank you so much for your attention to detail."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-12%$2,853
11 days From$2,503

Health Safety

More
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South Island 13 Day Coast to Coast Highlights Tour
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South Island 13 Day Coast to Coast Highlights Tour

By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
40 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, Queenstown

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
  • Either way, you will have an awesome time we promise!

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-12%$2,075
13 days From$1,820

Generous cancellation

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Exclusive Patagonia & Australis Expedition Cruise
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Exclusive Patagonia & Australis Expedition Cruise

By Across South America
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
65 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

El Calafate, Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Torres del Paine National Park, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Australis Expedition Cruise in the fjords of Tierra del Fuego
  • Soft hike to the Perito Moreno Glacier
  • Luxury Glamping inTorres del Paine Chile and Exploration of Tierra del Fuego, and Penguin Colony

Themes

Birding, Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise, Trekking & Expeditions, Photography

What travelers are saying

"I highly recommend Across South America for a memorable experience that is personalized for YOU."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-12%$14,142
11 days From$12,405
Price updated 1 year+ ago

Generous cancellation

More
Tropical Reef and Rainforest Tour
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Tropical Reef and Rainforest Tour

By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
4.9/5 Excellent
40 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Cairns

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary). Either way, you will have an awesome time we promise!

Themes

Birding, Cultural, Education / Learning, High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-12%$5,577
11 days From$4,892

Generous cancellation

More

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Enchanting New Zealand
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Enchanting New Zealand

By XperieNZ
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
14 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
XperieNZ is renowned for curating extraordinary travel experiences that blend luxury with adventure, offering bespoke journeys to discerning travelers
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Rotorua

Highlights

  • Private Personalised Walk with return ferry tickets – Waiheke Island, Greater Auckland
  • Private City Tour – Christchurch
  • TranzAlpine Scenic Rail Journey – Christchurch to Greymouth
  • Glacier Valley Eco Walk
  • Skyline Gondola with Luge Rides - Queenstown Te Ra Guided Tour + Haka, Te Puia – Rotorua
Show more

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Good morning, as our holiday in New Zealand is coming to a close, wish to thank you for everything you are and have done to make our trip memorable and enjoyable. As you recommended, I spoke with Faith and she is having Rod pick us up by 8.30am this morning. We will leave immediately. If we can get on the helicopter as early as possible we could return so much earlier. If possible do put in a word at the helipad, after 9am, as you said, and we will be on our way there. Thank you."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-12%$7,979
11 days From$6,999

Generous cancellation

More
Captivating New Zealand
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Captivating New Zealand

By XperieNZ
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
14 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
XperieNZ is renowned for curating extraordinary travel experiences that blend luxury with adventure, offering bespoke journeys to discerning travelers
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Rotorua

Highlights

  • Private Personalised Regional and City Tour – Auckland
  • Big Sky Stargazing – Mt Cook National Park/Village
  • 25 Minute Scenic Heli flight with Glacier Landing – Mt Cook National Park/Village
  • Glacier Explorers Cruise on Glacier Terminal Lake - Mt Cook National Park/Village
  • Skyline Gondola with Luge Rides - Queenstown
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Good morning, as our holiday in New Zealand is coming to a close, wish to thank you for everything you are and have done to make our trip memorable and enjoyable. As you recommended, I spoke with Faith and she is having Rod pick us up by 8.30am this morning. We will leave immediately. If we can get on the helicopter as early as possible we could return so much earlier. If possible do put in a word at the helipad, after 9am, as you said, and we will be on our way there. Thank you."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-12%$7,694
11 days From$6,749

Generous cancellation

More
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Self-Guided & Independent Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
1,431  Reviews
Write a review
See all Self-Guided & Independent tour reviews
Excellent
218
Great
49
Average
7
Disappointing
2
Terrible
3
J

Jayne & patricia

Jan 2023

Written on

Everything was so beautiful yet varied. It’s hard to single out a highlight : so many !!

Everything was so beautiful yet varied. It’s hard to single out a highlight : so many !! We are planning to do our next walking tour in Portugal with Intura Travel, ...

Tour:  Walk from Van Gogh's landscapes to the Luberon trip

G

Gordon & laurel

Jan 2023

Written on

Thank you again for your good work making our trip so wonderful !

The roadbook notes were generally excellent! The Fort De Buoux was fascinating. Should not be missed but needs at least 1 hour for planning purposes. The recommende...

Tour:  Walk from Van Gogh's landscapes to the Luberon trip

C

Claudia & Dany

Jan 2023

Written on

The trip was all really well prepared, very detailed and thorough.

The trip was all really well prepared, very detailed and thorough. Good of you to include history and other information as well as restaurant suggestions etc. The in...

Tour:  Walk from Van Gogh's landscapes to the Luberon trip

B

Beth & Frederick

Jan 2023

Written on

We enjoyed the scenery, all hotels except in Avignon, the food, and the people we met

We enjoyed the scenery, all hotels except in Avignon, the food, and the people we met. Yes, I would travel again with your company and would recommend to friends. Th...

Tour:  Walk from Van Gogh's landscapes to the Luberon trip

C

Cheryl & Michael

Jan 2023

Written on

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. The hikes were fantastic, the route notes very accurate

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. The hikes were fantastic, the route notes very accurate (we only were confused one time and missed a turn but it didn't take long to ...

Tour:  Walk from Van Gogh's landscapes to the Luberon trip

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Self-Guided & Independent Tour Selection Trips

A self-guided or independent tour offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, but it's essential to keep a few key tips in mind:
  • Research your destination thoroughly before your trip.
  • Plan a rough itinerary to maximize your time.
  • Pack light to ease mobility and navigation.
  • Stay connected with reliable communication tools.
  • Prioritize safety and security throughout your journey.
  • Embrace local transportation for an authentic experience.
  • Keep important documents organized and accessible.
  • Learn basic phrases in the local language for convenience.
  • Always carry a water bottle and stay hydrated.
  • Budget wisely to avoid overspending during your trip.
  • Stay open-minded and embrace unexpected adventures along the way.
 

Additional details

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