Escorted Small Group Tours Across the World

An Antipodean travel company serving World Travellers since 1983

Odyssey Traveller: Small Group Package Holidays

The Educational Small group Tour Specialists.

We specialise in educational small group tours tours for solo traveller or those travelling with their partner, exclusively for senior or mature travellers, typically for groups of between 6 to 12 people, and no more than 18 travellers. Odyssey’s package holidays are tailored for the reasonably active senior or mature traveller , be you seeking over 50 travel groups, over 60, or over 70 and seeking to travel as a couple or looking for solo travel tours. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs to since 1983, not just as small group escorted tours of Australia but all around the world.

Odyssey was originally developed by a collection of member Universities across Australia, New Zealand and Asia to lead the way in providing escorted, an educational small group tour for mature aged and senior travellers, to unique and intriguing parts of the world with a tour director and tour guide. Today, Odyssey still has an association with universities through the profile of the tour director for each tour group. It seeks out like-minded organisations and individuals committed to our philanthropic objectives by providing academic based merit scholarships to University students studying in Australia and New Zealand.

Odyssey offers a wide range of educational, cultural and heritage journeys as an organised tour that expand horizons and broaden the mind with some 300 tours listed on the website, from Dinosaurs in Mongolia to a Walking tour of the Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain or the Australian outback.Designed for active, inquisitive travellers in a small tour group environment with a set itinerary. Tour attendees typically number between 6 to 12 and are a couple or solo traveller. This emphasis on small group travel with a tour leader ensures a friendly and personal tour environment for you and your fellow traveller , which is at the heart of our philosophy. Simply put, Odyssey Traveller provides holidays with an itinerary for couples and holidays for solo travellers over 50 .

Unique tour format tailored for Mature & Senior travellers

Tours typically span between two to three weeks in duration. An Odyssey small group tour seeks to stay typically 2 to 3 nights in each location in good 3 or 4 star hotels. These are an escorted tour that have evolved to be a good blend of touring and seeing. As well as opportunities to spend time in key places to take a half or full day break from the group enabling you should you with to be a solo traveller for a few hours or explore with a travelling companion a particular place or take time out for a break, before we travel on to our next destination. For the solo traveller , Odyssey has a expansive range of holidays for solo travellers over 50 to choose from, though we do not offer a regular river cruise or a dedicated solos holiday or solo travel tours.

For the solo traveller there is a single supplement charged on all of Odyssey Travellers small group tour programs. The single supplement reflects the cost of single occupancy of a hotel room with a double bed in your own room (generally, no single bedded rooms are offered across Europe) or a single cabin on a cruise . There are no additional charges made any client booking holidays for solo travellers over 50 years of age, just the single supplement , we like to keep a level of transparency in the prices charged.

In today’s evolving post Covid-19 travel environment that is emerging for tours in late 2020 and 2021, Odyssey is ensuring that you have peace of mind travel with this care program for those participating on as a couple or single travel tour . If you prefer to arrange for a solo tour with your solo traveller friends we can provide you with private solo travel tours .

Escorted Small Group Tours Across the World

Odyssey Traveller offers tours all over the world. We have a range of tours across Europe , The British Isles , Asia , Africa , The Middle East , and The Americas . We can take you to see the Northern Lights in the outermost regions of Norway. You can travel with us to the jungles of Madagascar to experience its magnificent landscape and wildlife or see the ruins of Machu Picchu in South America . Or take a journey through history with a tour with the theme of Britain’s canals and railways . If you enjoy a spot of cruising, join our Journey through Mongolia and Russia which includes a 10 night river cruise between Moscow and St. Petersburg, or our Egypt tour with an amazing Nile river cruise . If you prefer to stay closer to home, we have a great selection of tours in Australia to Western Australia, South Australia, Northern territory, Kata tjuta Outback Queensland, but not the great barrier reef or Ayers rock, Kangaroo Island but Tasmania as well as New Zealand, visiting both North island and the South Island including the east coast, Rotorua, Milford Sound, and Queenstown.

Whatever your fascination, Odyssey is certain to have an organised tour that sparks your interest or travel style. Visit a place you’ve never been such as our outback Australia tour, or return to somewhere you know and love in western Australia national park and see it from a completely new perspective on a scenic flight while traveling solo or with a partner as part of an organised tour. There’s no age limit for group travel or solo travel tours over 50 , 60 and beyond! Solo female travellers will find in Odyssey small group tours are safe and respectful environment to explore the world with like minded travel companions.

Odyssey’s small group travel tour itinerary typically depart with a tour guide from a major centre such as Melbourne, Sydney, Cairns, or Brisbane, making it easy to for you join the trip . Single travelers or couples arriving early will often meet the tour leader earlier at the hotel. Otherwise you will meet your travel director and group travel friends on the first evening of the tour , before we start our adventure and venture off the beaten track with you new fellow traveler friends, usually our travel is by coach tour exclusive to the group. We work with reputable local tour company (s) in each destination to better support the local economy. We also assist you with independent travel plans before or after the group travel so you can have a perfect trip and return home with wonderful memories.

All inclusive Specialty Tours for mature travellers

Odyssey Travellers’s fully escorted travel programs offer a unique opportunity for the discerning adult to make the satisfying leap from tourist to traveller. By also adding value to your travel we enhance your travel experience and create more meaningful memories.

Many of our tours are organised around a particular theme, so the tour group bonds around its shared interest, and you will travel off the beaten path with experienced and knowledgeable tour guides and tour director. Themes include archaeology, architecture, ballet, fine art, gardens, and performing arts.

Each Odyssey tour you take as couple or as a single traveller counts towards your membership of our Alumni program. Bronze membership starts at the conclusion of your third international tour with us. Membership steps steadily up to Platinum when you can receive a 9% discount of the list price of any international Odyssey small group package holidays offered.

Let us take care of all the details while you concentrate on enjoying the experience. We include many extra services at no extra cost: With Odyssey Traveller there are no hidden extras. In order to find what is covered by the tour, simply refer to the “Incl/Excl” section on the tour page.

Small Group Holidays for Senior couples or single travellers

Whether travelling solo, in a couple, or with friends, Odyssey Traveller caters primarily for travellers over 50, over 60, over 70 or 80 years of age. Therefore, your travelling companions are sure to share your interests. They will want similar experiences in an environment of mutual understanding. We design all programs with the mature traveller in mind. Travelling solo does not mean travelling alone, so when there’s free time to explore you’re sure to have another solo traveler or couple ready to join you if you wish. Single travelers make about a third of our groups and many a repeat travelers!

All Odyssey Traveller participants want more than just a blur of museums and monuments. We work to create a lively learning experience and cover some of the world’s most fascinating destinations and authentic cultural experiences. We are also, of course, aware of your need for free-time, so many of our itineraries allowing space for you to explore, or simply relax on your own.

Odyssey is focused on the cost of our tours to ensure our prices represent good value to our customers.

Odyssey offers a collection of genuine small group tour(s) Odyssey tours are priced to reflect that these are small group tours. Typically this means you are part of a small group of 6 to 12 people, not part of a group of 18 or more. Small group means you and fellow traveller enjoying an evening meal around one dinner table. So, we do not achieve the economies of scale of 18 plus on a coach that a larger tour operator would offer, because this is not the type of trip or touring experience our clients seek from us.

Odyssey tours are genuinely based around;

  • A Small group tour of less than 18 people for the mature traveller as holidays for a couple and holidays for solo travellers over 50.
  • Knowledgeable local expert guides and a great tour leader who has an interest in the theme of the tour.
  • Inclusive pricing, including all entrances, tipping and the majority of meals included. That means, no hidden extras with respect to cost. Transparent pricing of the single supplement for the single traveller.
  • A learning based escorted tour with a like minded fellow traveller.
  • Accommodation in 3 & 4 star hotels and self catering apartments.
  • A blend of group learning, touring activities and free time to explore a place further, whether on a discovery or walking holiday program.
  • No name badges or flags to follow when out and about.
  • Travel to places that extend your learning and curiosity, often where others will not follow.
  • Spending typically between 60 to 85% of the operating cost of the tour in the country visited, benefiting the local communities directly.

An Odyssey escorted tour is based around the premise that you pay less in comparison to a similar small group tour offering. You can make all the arrangements by e-mail, web chat, direct on- line or by mail or telephone from the comfort of your own home. Odyssey arranges everything from educational content, accommodation, to meals, field trips and coach or train travel. We also market directly to you with no hidden extras. We’re also happy to help with advice on every aspect of your trip, whether it be tips on what to pack, to the fitness level required for a walking holiday. Additionally, we can assist with your flights and travel insurance requirements, at your request. If you are travelling solo and wish to share with another single traveler we can assist with pairing you up, just let us know when booking your trip.

If you want to learn more have a look at our articles with plenty of travel advice and travel inspiration about all our destinations. Our article on Single Traveler may be of particular interest to those exploring the option of a solo trip for the first time.

Click here to register for our complimentary catalogue and weekly newsletter to stay in touch with Odyssey Traveller and it’s collection of all inclusive small group educational based tours for the senior and mature traveller. In our newsletter we update you on upcoming tours and new articles published as well as travel deals.

About Odyssey Traveller

We are a small team based in Sydney Australia, led by Mark Banning-Taylor who joined Odyssey in 2011 with a vision of raising customer service and refreshing the product offering to our key client group. Mark purchased the company in 2018, with a commitment to providing Odyssey scholarships to University students.

We research, prepare and post all our articles on travel and travel advice to our existing and potential customers who are considering joining us on one of our tours.

Published March 2nd 2016; Last updated May 7th 2020.

Related Tours for over 50's

25 Total Tours
new-zealand-225540_1920

13 days

Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Feb +1

Small group tour of New Zealand's North Island

Visiting

Escorted 13 day small group tour of the East coast of New Zealand’s North island. Off the beaten track, for like minded people curious about history, culture, wine and landscapes. Your tour director and local guides share their knowledge with you the traveller on this New Zealand tour for senior travellers.

From A$10,450 AUD

View Tour
Guaranteed
Edinburgh Fringe Festival small group for Mature travellers

9 days

Aug

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Small Group Tour

Visiting Scotland

One of the few European tour companies to have in Scotland an escorted small group tour of Edinburgh during the fringe festival. As well attending performances, this trip includes time to experience, the old town, new town and the royal mile, a UNESCO world heritage site plus Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse.

From A$5,950 AUD

View Tour
Pre-guaranteed
Discover Greenland’s history and culture

4 days

Sep, May

Discover Greenland | Small Group Tour for Seniors

Visiting Greenland

Greenland is the largest island in the world, the majority of it lies above the Arctic Circle, and it is part of Denmark. Few places are quite so difficult to reach, we fly from Reykjavik to Nuuk. During this small group tour we have ensured that our travellers gets to this conversation-stopping land and, while we are there we obtain the most comprehensive overview of this vast landmass. We visit during the summer, experiencing the burst of seasonal flora, which caused the early voyagers to name it Greenland.

From A$5,950 AUD

View Tour
Guaranteed
Taktshang Goemba, Tiger nest monastery, Bhutan

14 days

Nov, Apr

Tour of Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan

Visiting Bhutan, India

Join Odyssey Traveller on this small group tour in the Indian subcontinent, taking us from the verdant tea gardens of Darjeeling nestled in the Himalayan mountain range, to the hilltop monasteries of the former independent kingdom of Sikkim, and finally to the pristine and beautifully isolated mountain landscape of Bhutan.

From A$11,545 AUD

View Tour
Contempporary Germany including Oberammergau

23 days

Aug

Contemporary Germany & Oberammergau Passion Play 2030

Visiting Germany

Enjoy the authentic experience of the Oberammergau passion play on this small group escorted tour. One of the best small group tour companies Europe, the destinations and itineraries provide small group journeys for like minded people. For solo travelers a minimal single supplement applies.

From A$19,995 AUD

View Tour
Guaranteed
Industrial revolution

23 days

Oct, Apr, Sep

Canals and Railways in the Industrial Revolution Tour | Tours for Seniors in Britain

Visiting England

A small group tour of Wales, Scotland & England that traces the history of the journey that is the Industrial revolution. Knowledgeable local guides and your tour leader share their history with you on this escorted tour including Glasgow, London, New Lanark & Manchester, Liverpool and the Lake district.

From A$16,225 AUD

View Tour
Guaranteed
Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland

20 days

May, Jul, Sep

Scottish Islands and Shetland small group tours for seniors

Visiting Scotland

An escorted small group tour for couples and solo travellers of the Scottish isles including the isle of Skye draws on local guides to share their knowledge of the destinations in this unique part of Scotland. UNESCO world heritage site are visited as breathtaking scenery and authentic experiences are shared in a group of like minded people on this guided tour of remote Scotland.

From A$14,450 AUD

View Tour
Early Bird
Ancient Turkey

22 days

Apr, May, Oct, Aug

Ancient Turkey escorted small group history tour

Visiting Turkey

As a travel company we seek to keep guests off the beaten path. Trips that are remembered for authentic experiences. Our small group journeys in Turkey are fully escorted by an experienced local guide and an Odyssey guide to give this type of experience whether at one of the many UNESCO World heritage sites explored or local bazaars. It is always about the adventure and memories that we will create.

From A$14,995 AUD

View Tour
Guaranteed
Early Bird
Athens, Acropolis - Greek Islands

22 days

May, Sep

Greece small group escorted history tour

Visiting Greece

Our 21 day small group tour explores the land of great philosophers, myths, and legends. We will learn about the culture and heritage of modern Greece whilst exploring and learning Athens, which only found independence in its uprising from the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century.

From A$12,250 AUD

View Tour
Pre-guaranteed
Early Bird
Vineyard with Davaillo castle as background, La Rioja (Spain)

24 days

Sep, Mar, Apr, Aug

Small Group Guided Tours of Spain and Portugal

Visiting Portugal, Spain

Our program explores the lands of Spain and Portugal, two countries bound by many centuries of history reflected in their modern cultures. Divided by history and language, contiguous neighbours Spain and Portugal were once host to gigantic empires that still bear their languages and lifestyles. A small group tour for couple and solo travellers.

From A$14,750 AUD

View Tour
Guaranteed
Early Bird
Saint James Way Small Group Walking Tour

19 days

Jun, Sep

Saint James Way Small Group Walking Tour (The Camino)- Spain

Visiting Portugal, Spain

Experience pleasant sections of the Way of Saint James, crossing some of Spain’s most beautiful landscapes. We follow the pilgrims on easy distances of The Way to the mythical destination, Santiago de Compostella. Not since the middle ages has this adventure for body and mind been more popular. We also get to discover the artistic highlights and rich history of Northern Spain and Portugal, as well as enjoying local wines and exquisite food.

From A$12,850 AUD

View Tour
Pre-guaranteed
Early Bird
Castle, Gorey - England, Jersey - England, France, Grouville

18 days

Sep, May

Channel Islands | A small group walking tour for seniors

Visiting Channel Islands

Another Small group tour of the British isles of the Channel Islands. This fully escorted, small group walking tour, takes the active senior off the beaten path with local guides to Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm.

From A$12,850 AUD

View Tour

Articles for over 50 travel groups

senior travel

Advice for Mature-Aged Solo Travellers

Advice for solo travellers seeking advice on holidays for solo travellers over 50. Odyssey has been offering small group tours for mature and senior travellers all around the world since 1983.

11 Nov 19 · 8 mins read
Read Article
Affordable small group tours with Odyssey Alumni

Affordable small group tours with Odyssey Alumni

Affordable small group tours with Odyssey Alumni For Odyssey Travellers who regularly travel with us over a number of years, the organisation offers a three level Alumni loyalty program. This […]

6 Apr 17 · 2 mins read
Read Article
Mature Female traveller

Being Travel fit: The Definitive Guide

Being travel fit, in mind and body. In this article, we will discuss ways in which to treat your mind and body, ensuring you remain travel fit and enjoy your time as a mature-aged or…

14 Jan 21 · 7 mins read
Read Article
Overtourism

Benefits of a small group tour for the mature and senior traveller

Article details the benefits of a small group tour for mature and senior travellers, whether travelling as a couple or solo, in your 60's or beyond in your 80's. Advice on choosing a responsible touring company and things to consider post pandemic.

29 Jan 21 · 8 mins read
Read Article
Couple Walking Odyssey Traveller

Graceful Ageing: Tips to Counter Age-Related Muscle Loss

Graceful Ageing: Tips to Counter Age-Related Muscle Loss We experience a lot of physical and mental changes as we grow older, but one of the most insidious of these changes is a common condition called…

10 Nov 19 · 7 mins read
Read Article
Rome at Sunset with San Pietro basilica, Sant'Angelo bridge and Tevere river in Roma, Italy

How to choose your next small group tour

Deciding on which tour company to choose maybe difficult, personal recommendation is a good start. At Odyssey Traveller we have been providing small group tours to mature and senior travellers couples and solo travellers since 1983 to places all around the world.

8 Nov 19 · 7 mins read
Read Article
Mature Travellers Footwear and Clothing

Mature Travellers Footwear and Clothing Tips

Choosing Footwear and Clothing as a mature traveller. While our programme materials always contain advice on specific climates, there are a number of helpful general principles to bear in mind […]

6 Jun 17 · 5 mins read
Read Article
small group escorted learning tours

Packing advice for Odyssey Traveller's small group escorted learning tours

Packing advice for mature and senior travellers taking a long haul flight to commence their vacation and a small group tour. Some travel tips on how to look at packing and organisation to minimise disruption to your vacation. Advice for couples and solo traveler joining a walking tour or discovery tours

13 Jun 20 · 8 mins read
Read Article

Join 22,383 like-minded travellers receiving our weekly newsletter.

Special offers and promotions
A$350 AUD first trip travel voucher
The latest tours and articles