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Wondering whether the optional extras on your upcoming tour are worth it? We’ve rounded up seven of the best tour excursions guaranteed to elevate your experience.
Choosing the perfect tour can be overwhelming. Balancing must-see sights with moments to relax is key – and that’s where optional excursions shine. Optional extras are bonus experiences that are not included in the standard tour, allowing each traveller to experience everything they want and nothing they don’t. Whether you’re a foodie, adrenaline junkie or culture vulture, optional add-ons allow each member of your group to tailor the tour to their preferences.
Here are seven unmissable add-ons that are guaranteed to make your next tour unforgettable.
1. Take a hot air balloon flight
Marvel at your destination from a new viewpoint with a magical hot air balloon experience. Float through the skies in the comfort of a hot air balloon basket and take in the beauty below from a bird’s eye view. For those who aren’t afraid of heights, this experience is the ultimate addition to any tour.
Experience it yourself: There’s no scene more iconic than a sunrise flight over Cappadocia, where hundreds of balloons rise together above honeycombed hills and fairy chimneys – a spectacle that belongs on every traveller’s bucket list.
2. Experience a traditional cooking class
Deepen your understanding of the local cuisine with a hands-on cooking class that offers insight into the region’s culinary heritage. Under the guidance of skilled chefs, you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients. This enriching experience not only teaches valuable cooking techniques but also provides a deeper connection to the destination’s culture – plus you’ll take home recipes to recreate the flavours of your trip.
Experience it yourself: Pedal your way through the charming countryside of Hoi An on a half-day bike and cooking tour that takes you deep into the heart of Vietnam’s rich culinary and agricultural traditions, including a visit to the renowned Tra Que Vegetable Village.
3. Embark on a wildlife safari
Set out on a thrilling wildlife safari, venturing into national parks and reserves to witness animals in their natural habitats. Whether you’re spotting majestic elephants, elusive big cats or colourful bird species, each glimpse is as exciting as the next. Knowledgeable guides share insights about local ecosystems, making the experience both educational and captivating – an ideal excursion for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Experience it yourself: Rise with the dawn for a morning safari through Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park. With over 40 species of mammals – including elephants and leopards – and a rich conservation legacy, it’s a front-row seat to the wild wonders of Sri Lanka.
4. Go on a river cruise
Relax and enjoy the scenery on a tranquil river cruise as you glide past iconic landmarks, lush forests or charming riverside villages. Whether it’s daytime exploration or sunset sailing, river cruises offer a leisurely way to experience the beauty of a destination from the water. With opportunities for dining and entertainment onboard, it’s a serene and sociable way to spend part of your escape – perfect for couples, families and friends.
Experience it yourself: Step aboard a dinner cruise along the Saigon River and embark on an enchanting evening of dining, entertainment and breathtaking views. As you glide along the water, take in the skyline of Ho Chi Minh City, where skyscrapers and colonial-era landmarks shimmer against the sky.
5. Explore the street food scene
Discover the heart of a destination through its vibrant street food scene with a guided foodie tour. From sizzling local delicacies to sweet treats, you’ll experience an array of flavours while learning the cultural stories behind each dish. Street food tours are perfect for adventurous eaters and those eager to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and scents of local markets – a true feast for the senses.
Experience it yourself: Embark on a captivating guided evening walk through the heart of Seville’s old town, where history, culture, and cuisine come together. Along the way, step into traditional tavernas, where the rich aromas of sizzling garlic, cured Iberian ham and fresh seafood fill the air
6. Soar through the sky on a helicopter flight
Take your sightseeing to new heights with a thrilling helicopter flight, providing unparalleled aerial views of iconic landmarks or stunning natural wonders. The excitement of hovering above mountains, cities or coastlines is unmatched, offering an unforgettable perspective of your destination. This excursion is ideal for those seeking adventure.
Experience it yourself: Take to the skies on a 25-minute helicopter tour from Banff, sweeping over the dramatic ridges, sheer rock faces and snow-dusted summits of Spray Lakes, Spray Valley and the legendary Three Sisters peaks for a Rocky Mountain experience like no other.
7. Delight in a cultural performance
Experience local culture by attending a live performance. Experience the rhythm of traditional music, colourful costumes and expressive storytelling through song and dance. These performances offer insight into the region’s artistic traditions and are often accompanied by folklore and history.
Experience it yourself: Witness the fiery passion and soul-stirring rhythms of Spanish culture with a live Flamenco show in Granada, where the raw emotion of dance, music and song is enjoyed alongside a three-course dinner.
