When it comes to exploring a new destination by bicycle, you have the option of doing it on your own, or you can participate in a group cycling tour. While there isn’t a wrong choice, there are obviously pros and cons to both. You might find one option fits your personal preferences more than the other. Here are a few pros and cons for guided tours vs. self-guided tours.
Guided Tours
Pros:
If you’re heading to a new destination for the first time, your best option might be to reserve a spot with a guided tour.
- With a guided tour, your days will be set around a structured schedule and pre-planned route—which means that you’ll be able to see and do a great deal in a short time frame.
- Since you’ll be riding with a guide, your chances of getting lost are slim to nil. On a guided tour, your luggage and equipment are typically hauled for you in a support van so you won’t have to worry about toting additional weight and supplies.
- Many guided tours include a bicycle in the trip fee, so you won’t even have to worry about shipping your bike. If you do bring your own bike along, some tour companies actually offer repairs, or at the very least a set of tools.
- Guides are often extremely knowledgeable, offering a wealth of information about local culture and history. Guided tours often feature side activities—like wine tastings or hikes—so you can really experience the best of an area.
- Since guided tours are usually structured around groups, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to chat and socialize with other participants and locals too.
Cons:
- If you’re on a tight budget, you may find a guided tour too expensive for your tastes—although there are plenty that are priced affordably.
- A bike tour relies heavily on a guide, and a guide who isn’t experienced or professional is a big disappointment. (Seeking out a vetted and popular tour company can prevent this.)
- Lastly, with a group tour, your days and activities are structured. You may not have as much of an opportunity to head out on your own, and flexibility concerning what you do and who you associate with can be minimal.
Solitary Travel or Self-Guided Tours
Pros:
- Bicycle touring on your own is relatively inexpensive.
- Solitary travel is extremely flexible; you can ride as much or as little as you wish.
- Since you don’t have much of a schedule, you can take as many detours as you like, which can lead to plenty of spontaneous—and likely memorable—experiences.
- And traveling alone in a new area is a great way to meet new people and make new friends.
Cons:
- A solitary bike tour can be risky—and expensive. While the initial costs are minimal, paying for bike repairs and hotels can add up quickly.
- Hauling all your gear and tools with you can be a pain.
- Also, if you’re in a new country, you may get lost easily, and wandering around on your own in a new place can be dangerous.
- Even if you’re able to navigate successfully, it can be easy to miss the must-see destinations and sights in a new area simply because you’ve never been there before.
All in all, there are pros and cons to both guided and self-guided tours. It’s a good idea assess the pros and cons to find the option that fits best with your personal preferences.
For more information on our guided tours at Bicycle Adventures, check out our Tour Finder.