Having trouble narrowing your list of possible vacation tours? Here are a few operators offering attractive tour itineraries.
Biking
For more than 30 years, the non-profit group Adventure Cycling has been offering relatively inexpensive cycling trips throughout North America. Trips range from five to 93 days, with itineraries that include historical routes (Lewis and Clark’s trail, for instance) and ambitious expeditions (several cross-country departures each year). They even offer training programs for those seeking to lead group tours. Phone: 800-755-2453; adventurecycling.org
Hiking, kayaking, biking
With a 750,000-membership base comprised of passionate outdoor enthusiasts, the Sierra Club is America’s most popular environmental organization. In addition to implementing grass-roots environmental initiatives, they offer a bevy of diverse tour offerings. Itineraries include excursions to suit every budget and taste, from remote, international hikes, to local conservation campaigns. Phone: 415-977-5500; sierraclub.org
Young singles
For travelers 18 to 35 years old who haven’t quite outgrown their college party days, Australia-based Contiki Holidays offers intensive sightseeing tours around the world. These fast-moving itineraries–eight countries in 14 days, in some cases–are notorious for attracting partygoing travelers. In most cases, trips are priced for the budget traveler, averaging around $100 to $125 per day. Phone: 866-CONTIKI; contiki.com
Horseback riding
For an intimate excursion through the Canadian Rockies, Radke Outfitting offers pack horse wilderness trips. The five- to nine-day itineraries afford travelers unparalleled, firsthand views of some of North America’s most extraordinary scenery for less than $140 per day. Phone: 403-340-3971www.radkeoutfitting.com
