The tour operator companies in the US serve as key facilitators in the travel industry, providing specialized services to travelers seeking personalized experiences. This sector encompasses a variety of companies ranging from luxury and adventure to cultural and experiential tourism. As travelers increasingly seek authentic and unique experiences, the industry is evolving to meet these demands by incorporating technology and sustainability into their offerings. With a growing emphasis on eco-conscious travel and immersive experiences, operators are looking to redefine the traditional travel model, keeping pace with discerning consumers' preferences as global travel resumes post-pandemic.

This list features 23 notable tour operator companies located throughout the US, highlighting a range of company sizes, from small firms to larger entities. Noteworthy companies like Contiki and Gray Line Worldwide showcase a mix of established foundations—ranging from 1910 to 1990—and diverse specializations, from adventure tours to cultural immersion. Headquartered in varied locations, primarily in California and New York, these companies cater to specific traveler needs while emphasizing customer service and unique itineraries to enhance guest experiences.

Read on to learn more about the top tour operator companies in the US.

Top 23 Tour Operators Companies in the US

1. Contiki

• Website: contiki.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cypress, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 45%, Australia 17%, Greece 8%, Other 31%
• Founded year: 1962
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: contiki-holidays

Contiki is a private travel company based in Cypress, California, founded in 1962. It specializes in providing travel experiences for young adults aged 18 to 35. With a portfolio of over 350 tours spanning more than 75 countries, Contiki offers a variety of travel styles, including wellness trips and culturally immersive experiences. The company emphasizes social interaction and adventure, catering to the preferences of its target demographic. Contiki is part of the TTC family of brands, which further solidifies its position in the travel industry. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating stability in its operations without external financial backing. Their employee distribution shows a strong presence in the UK, Australia, and other countries, reflecting their international reach and appeal.

2. Gray Line Worldwide

• Website: grayline.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 28%, Mexico 10%, Ecuador 7%, Other 55%
• Founded year: 1910
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: gray-line-worldwide

Gray Line Worldwide, based in Denver, Colorado, is a private tourism company that has been providing sightseeing tours and travel experiences since its inception in 1910. With a workforce of around 144 employees, the company operates in multiple countries, including the United States, Mexico, Ecuador, Colombia, and Croatia. Gray Line specializes in organized tours, day trips, and cultural experiences, focusing on iconic landmarks and attractions that appeal to travelers. Their website offers a streamlined booking process, allowing customers to easily select and reserve tours across various destinations. Gray Line is committed to responsible tourism and has garnered a reputation for quality service, as evidenced by their positive customer reviews. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model that has sustained its presence in the competitive tourism market.

3. The Travel Corporation

• Website: ttc.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Cypress, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 33%, United States (USA) 15%, Canada 15%, Other 37%
• Latest funding: July 2024
• Founded year: 1920
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: the-travel-corporation

The Travel Corporation, based in Cypress, California, is a private equity-owned travel agency that has been operating since 1920. With a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees, the company specializes in providing immersive travel experiences. It offers a range of services including guided tours, luxury travel, and tailor-made travel arrangements, catering to consumers who seek authentic cultural experiences. The Travel Corporation operates globally, connecting travelers with local communities and enhancing their travel experiences. The company is also committed to sustainability, as evidenced by its TreadRight Foundation, which supports various initiatives aimed at protecting the planet and promoting responsible tourism. This focus on sustainability and community engagement positions The Travel Corporation as a relevant and impactful player in the travel industry.

4. Grand Circle Corporation

• Website: oattravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 45%, Croatia 13%, Italy 12%, Other 30%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: grand-circle-corporation

Grand Circle Corporation, based in Boston, Massachusetts, was founded in 1978 and operates under the brand Overseas Adventure Travel. The company specializes in adventure travel, providing guided tours and travel packages that emphasize cultural immersion and unique experiences. Their target audience primarily consists of individual travelers seeking enriching journeys across various global destinations. Grand Circle Corporation is notable for its commitment to personalized travel planning, offering detailed itineraries and assistance to enhance the travel experience. The company employs approximately 1,924 individuals, with a significant portion of its workforce located in countries such as Croatia, Italy, and France, reflecting its international operational scope. The absence of reported funding indicates a self-sustaining business model, further solidifying its position in the travel industry.

5. Collette

• Website: gocollette.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Pawtucket, Rhode Island, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 73%, Australia 7%, Canada 5%, Other 15%
• Founded year: 1918
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: collette-vacations

Collette, based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, is a private travel agency and tour operator that has been in operation since 1918. With a workforce of approximately 869 employees, the company specializes in guided tours and travel packages, offering a variety of travel experiences across continents. Collette's itineraries are meticulously crafted to include accommodations, transportation, and immersive local experiences, ensuring a seamless travel experience for customers. The company has a strong presence in the United States, with additional operations in Australia, Canada, Italy, and the United Kingdom. Collette is recognized for its commitment to customer service and travel protection, having issued significant refunds during the COVID-19 pandemic, which underscores its dedication to traveler confidence and satisfaction.

6. Backroads

• Website: backroads.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 64%, France 11%, Canada 9%, Other 16%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: backroads

Backroads, based in Berkeley, California, is a travel agency that specializes in active adventure travel. Since its inception in 1979, the company has focused on offering a variety of biking, hiking, and multi-adventure tours. These tours are designed for individuals, families, and groups seeking unique outdoor experiences and cultural exploration. Backroads operates in numerous destinations across the globe, including Europe, North America, and parts of Asia and Africa. The company prides itself on its well-organized trips, which are supported by a team of experienced leaders. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, Backroads has a significant presence in the travel industry, and its customer satisfaction ratings reflect a strong commitment to quality service. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without reliance on external investment.

7. Tauck

• Website: tauck.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Wilton, Connecticut, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Canada 4%, Australia 3%, Other 13%
• Founded year: 1925
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: tauck

Tauck is a private travel agency and tour operator based in Wilton, Connecticut, founded in 1925. The company has built a reputation for providing guided tours and cruises that span various global destinations. Tauck's portfolio includes land journeys, small-ship ocean cruises, and family travel adventures, catering primarily to consumers who seek enriching and authentic travel experiences. The company emphasizes personalized service, ensuring that travelers receive tailored experiences that enhance their journeys. With a workforce of approximately 587 employees, Tauck operates primarily in the United States, with a smaller presence in Canada, Australia, and several European countries. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has earned them recognition in the travel industry, making them a notable player among tour operators.

8. Gate 1 Travel

• Website: gate1travel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 41%, India 6%, Slovakia 5%, Other 47%
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: gate-1-travel

Gate 1 Travel, based in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, is a private travel agency that has been active since 1981. The company specializes in offering a variety of travel services, including escorted tours, river cruises, and vacation packages. With a workforce of approximately 609 employees, Gate 1 Travel caters to travelers seeking affordable yet enriching experiences across the globe. Their extensive portfolio includes destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and North America, showcasing their ability to serve a wide range of travel interests. The company emphasizes quality service and customer satisfaction, which has helped them maintain a loyal customer base over the years. Gate 1 Travel also engages in community support through the Gate 1 Foundation, which focuses on educational initiatives for children worldwide.

9. EF Go Ahead Tours

• Website: goaheadtours.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 81%, Canada 5%, Switzerland 4%, Other 10%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: efgoaheadtours

EF Go Ahead Tours, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a private travel agency that has been operating since 1990. The company specializes in guided tours and group travel experiences, catering to consumers who prefer organized travel solutions. With a workforce of approximately 478 employees, EF Go Ahead Tours offers a wide range of immersive travel packages, ensuring that accommodations, meals, and activities are arranged for their customers. Their services are designed to simplify travel planning, making it accessible for various demographics, including middle school students, high school students, college students, young adults, and older adults. The company has a strong presence in North America, with a significant portion of its customer base located in the United States. They also provide a rewards program, allowing travelers to earn benefits for future trips, which enhances customer loyalty and engagement. Overall, EF Go Ahead Tours plays a significant role in the tour operator industry by providing structured travel experiences that appeal to a broad audience.

10. Latin America For Less / Peru For Less

• Website: peruforless.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Round Rock, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Peru 94%, United States (USA) 6%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: latin-america-for-less

Latin America For Less / Peru For Less is a private travel agency based in Round Rock, Texas, specializing in custom tours and travel packages to Peru. Established in 1998, the company has developed a strong presence in the travel industry, focusing on personalized itineraries that cater to individual travelers. They offer a variety of experiences, including food tours and adventure trips, ensuring that clients can tailor their journeys to their specific interests. The company prides itself on exceptional customer service, allowing clients to postpone trips without fees up to 30 days prior to departure. With a team of local experts, Peru For Less emphasizes quality and comfort, providing handpicked accommodations and 24/7 travel support. Their commitment to flexibility and customer satisfaction is reflected in their extensive positive reviews, showcasing their effectiveness in the competitive travel market.

11. Viator

• Website: viator.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Needham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 50%, United States (USA) 19%, Australia 7%, Other 24%
• Latest funding: $200.0M, July 2014
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: viator

Viator, founded in 1995 and based in Needham, Massachusetts, is a travel agency that specializes in providing a platform for booking tours and activities worldwide. The company caters to consumers looking for unique travel experiences and travel agents aiming to enhance their service offerings. Viator boasts a vast inventory, featuring over 300,000 experiences across 2,500 destinations, which includes everything from walking tours to multi-day excursions. The company operates an affiliate program that allows individuals and businesses to earn commissions by promoting its offerings. Additionally, Viator provides API solutions for partners, enabling them to integrate Viator's extensive product content into their own platforms. This strategic positioning has allowed Viator to maintain relevance in the travel industry, even as it has not reported any recent funding since 2014.

12. CIE Tours

• Website: cietours.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Morristown, New Jersey, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, Ireland 26%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1932
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cie-tours-international

CIE Tours, based in Morristown, New Jersey, is a family-owned travel agency that has been operating since 1932. The company specializes in guided tours and vacation packages across Europe, particularly in Ireland, Scotland, England, Italy, Iceland, and Spain. CIE Tours offers a variety of travel experiences, including group travel, custom private tours, and independent adventures. They are known for their all-inclusive pricing model, which simplifies travel planning by covering most expenses upfront. CIE Tours has a strong emphasis on providing authentic experiences and fostering connections among travelers. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in their high guest ratings and numerous positive reviews. The company has also been proactive in expanding its offerings, recently introducing new itineraries and focusing on sustainability in tourism. With a workforce that includes a significant presence in both the United States and Ireland, CIE Tours continues to play a vital role in the travel industry.

13. Himalayan Glacier

• Website: himalayanglacier.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Baltimore, Maryland, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Nepal 61%, United States (USA) 39%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: himalayan-glacier

Himalayan Glacier is a family-owned travel agency based in Baltimore, Maryland, specializing in adventure tourism since its inception in 1992. The company focuses on providing unique travel experiences, including trekking, climbing, and cultural tours in the majestic landscapes of Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. With a team that includes a significant number of local guides, Himalayan Glacier emphasizes authentic experiences and safety, boasting a high success rate in their adventures. They cater to both individual travelers and groups, offering tailored trips that meet diverse needs. Their commitment to quality and local engagement has earned them recognition in the travel industry, making them a notable player in the adventure tourism market.

14. Context Travel

• Website: contexttravel.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 19%, France 17%, Italy 17%, Other 47%
• Latest funding: Series B, $5.0M, September 2017
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: context-travel

Context Travel, founded in 2003 and based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a tour operator that specializes in expert-led walking tours and cultural experiences. With a presence in over 60 cities globally, the company targets curious travelers who desire a deeper understanding of local history and culture. Their offerings include private and small-group tours, museum visits, and food experiences, all designed to enhance the travel experience. Context Travel has received significant venture capital funding, with a notable Series B round of $5 million in 2017. This financial backing supports their growth and ability to provide high-quality, personalized tours led by knowledgeable experts. The company has built a reputation for tailoring experiences to individual interests, making it a relevant player in the tour operator sector.

15. Wilderness Travel

• Website: wildernesstravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, Ecuador 10%, Iceland 4%, Other 11%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: wilderness-travel

Wilderness Travel, based in Berkeley, California, is a private travel agency that specializes in adventure travel and cultural experiences. Established in 1978, the company has built a reputation for crafting unique trips that span over 80 countries and cover a wide range of activities, including hiking, safaris, and cultural tours. With a team of knowledgeable trip leaders, Wilderness Travel emphasizes thoughtful itinerary design and exceptional service, ensuring that travelers enjoy immersive experiences in various destinations. The company has received numerous accolades, including multiple awards for being one of the best tour operators in the world. Their commitment to sustainable travel is evident in their community and conservation initiatives, which aim to preserve the cultures and ecosystems they visit. With a workforce that includes employees in various countries, Wilderness Travel is well-positioned to provide authentic travel experiences to its clients.

16. Peru Hop

• Website: peruhop.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Peru 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: peru-hop

Peru Hop is a travel service company based in the United States, primarily operating in Peru and Bolivia. Established in 2013 by a group of four co-founders, including Irish and Peruvian nationals, the company offers a unique hop-on, hop-off bus service that allows travelers to explore popular destinations and hidden gems at their own pace. With a fleet of modern buses and a team of local guides, Peru Hop aims to provide authentic experiences and insights into Peruvian culture. The company has grown significantly since its inception, serving over 315,000 passengers and receiving thousands of positive reviews. Their offerings include not only bus transportation but also a variety of day trips and tours, catering to different traveler needs. Peru Hop emphasizes safety, flexibility, and local knowledge, making it a noteworthy player in the travel industry.

17. Rick Steves' Europe

• Website: ricksteves.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 71%, Italy 8%, Spain 3%, Other 18%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rick-steves%27-europe

Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. is a private travel agency based in the United States, founded in 1980. The company specializes in guided tours and travel resources tailored for individuals planning trips to Europe. With a workforce of approximately 199 employees, Rick Steves' Europe offers a variety of travel products, including bags and guidebooks, and actively engages customers through travel tips and community forums. Their small-group tours feature 46 finely crafted itineraries for 2024, showcasing their commitment to personalized travel experiences. Additionally, the company provides a wealth of resources, including a travel store, educational videos, and a travel forum, which further solidifies their presence in the travel industry.

18. smarTours

• Website: smartours.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: November 2017
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: smartours

smarTours, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is a travel agency that has been operating since 1996. The company specializes in guided tours and travel packages, offering a variety of experiences that cater to travelers seeking organized travel solutions. Their portfolio includes small group tours, food and wine tours, and wildlife safaris, emphasizing cultural immersion and hassle-free travel arrangements. With a focus on creating connections between travelers and local communities, smarTours has successfully catered to over 240,000 customers. The company operates entirely within the United States and has maintained a consistent presence in the travel industry without reported funding since 2017.

19. TravelShop Turkey

• Website: travelshopturkey.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Turkey 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: travelshop-turkey

TravelShop Turkey, founded in 2005, is a private travel agency and tour operator based in Brooklyn, New York, with a strong operational presence in Turkey. The company specializes in a wide range of travel services, including guided tours, vacation packages, and event planning, catering to both individual travelers and groups. With a focus on customer satisfaction, TravelShop Turkey aims to simplify travel planning and enhance the overall experience for its clients. The company operates under the auspices of Murti's Tours and is registered with the Turkish Travel Agents Association (TURSAB). It offers over 1,000 different tours and has established a reputation for organizing unique events, such as solar eclipse tours and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) services. TravelShop Turkey has successfully served more than 500,000 clients, showcasing its commitment to quality service and customer care.

20. Trek Travel

• Website: trektravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Madison, Wisconsin, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, Spain 13%, Italy 4%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: trek-travel

Trek Travel, based in Madison, Wisconsin, is a private travel agency that specializes in active travel experiences, particularly cycling and hiking vacations. Established in 2003, the company has developed a robust portfolio of guided and self-guided tours across multiple destinations, including Europe, North America, South America, and Asia Pacific. Trek Travel caters to individuals looking for memorable outdoor experiences, offering a range of trip styles and activity levels to suit different preferences. Their commitment to quality is evident in their choice of accommodations, expert guides, and top-of-the-line Trek Bikes, ensuring that travelers enjoy both comfort and adventure. The company has a strong presence in the cycling community and actively engages with its customers to enhance their travel experiences.

21. VBT Bicycling Vacations

• Website: vbt.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Williston, Vermont, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 42%, Italy 21%, Netherlands 7%, Other 30%
• Latest funding: February 2013
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: vbt-bicycling-vacations

VBT Bicycling Vacations, based in Williston, Vermont, is a travel agency that specializes in biking tours around the world. Established in 1971, VBT has carved out a niche in the active travel market, offering a range of biking experiences that include guided tours, bike and boat combinations, and self-guided options. The company caters to travelers looking for active and immersive vacation experiences, allowing them to explore new locations while enjoying the outdoors. VBT's tours span multiple continents, including Europe, North America, South America, Asia, and Africa, showcasing their commitment to providing unique travel experiences. With a workforce of approximately 128 employees, VBT has a significant presence in the biking tour sector, and their customer satisfaction ratings reflect a strong reputation in the industry. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating stability in its operations without external financial backing.

22. SITA World Tours

• Website: sitatours.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, India 33%, Nepal 17%
• Founded year: 1933
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: sita-world-tours

SITA World Tours, based in Los Angeles, California, is a private travel agency that has been providing travel services since its founding in 1933. With a workforce of approximately 70 employees, the company specializes in crafting organized tours to a wide array of destinations, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Indian Subcontinent. SITA World Tours is dedicated to offering enriching travel experiences, focusing on personalized service and customer satisfaction. The company caters to various travel preferences, including independent trips, small group journeys, and specialty programs such as family-friendly tours and wellness retreats. SITA's involvement in the industry is further underscored by its membership in the USTOA, which includes a travelers assistance program, ensuring a commitment to high service standards and traveler safety.

23. Adventure Life

• Website: adventure-life.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Missoula, Montana, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, Ecuador 5%, Philippines 5%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: adventure-life

Adventure Life, based in Missoula, Montana, is a private travel agency established in 1999. The company specializes in creating personalized travel experiences, offering a range of services that include private journeys, small group tours, and expedition voyages to various destinations worldwide. With a focus on tailoring itineraries to individual preferences, Adventure Life caters to travelers looking for unique adventures. The company has a strong commitment to responsible travel, ensuring that their operations support local communities and preserve the environments they visit. Over the years, Adventure Life has expanded its offerings to include a wide array of destinations, from the Amazon to Antarctica, and has built a reputation for excellence in customer service, as evidenced by high traveler ratings. Their team of experienced trip planners has traveled extensively, providing clients with insights and recommendations based on firsthand experience. Adventure Life has also been recognized by notable publications, enhancing its standing in the travel industry.

Tour Operators Insights: Key Companies in the US

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