Ruins & Archaeology Small Group Tours & Trip Packages

Ruins & Archaeology Small Group Tours & Trips

92 Ruins & Archaeology trips. Tours from 19 tour companies. 768 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

5 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
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Small Group Tour
A Week in Jordan
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Amman, Aqaba, Dead Sea, Jerash, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum

Highlights

  • Discover the secrets of Petra with two full days exploring the Red Rose City
  • Experience Bedouin life at our private desert camp in Wadi Rum
  • Stroll through the ancient Roman streets of Jerash
  • Float in the tranquil waters of the Dead Sea, an unmissable experience
  • Visit Mount Nebo, said to be the burial site of Moses

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

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Azerbaijan & Georgia Experience
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Georgia, Narikala Fortress , Tbilisi

Highlights

  • Azerbaijan's cosmopolitan capital of Baku is often referred to as the 'new Dubai'. Enjoy a guided walking tour around the city's World Heritage-listed Old Town.
  • Mud volcanoes, ancient mosques, lush forests and tall peaks – the Caucasus Mountains will take your breath away.
  • Navigate the organised chaos of the farmers markets in Telavi. Your leader will be there to help you order as much fresh fruit, nuts or pigs heads as you desire.
  • Journey to the Svaneti region, a remote and alluring land of snow-capped mountains, discover the iconic tower houses dotted amongst mountain valleys and learn of one of the highest settlement in Europe - Ushguli people and its fascinating culture and traditions.
  • Far from a mere sightseeing tour, this trip is active and hands-on. You'll try your hand at preparing delicious local food and have plenty of chances to hike and explore.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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Real Affordable Peru
1/5 Terrible
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Urubamba

Highlights

  • Visit Lima’s historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Visit Lima’s National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History at Bolivar Square
  • Enjoyable way to experience the enchanting Andean landscape.
  • Enjiy Rafting excursion
  • Visit this mysterious sanctuary
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

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Human Origins: Southwest France and Northern Spain
3.5/5 Great
30 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Basque Country, Santillana del Mar, Vézère Valley

Highlights

  • Examine the Paleolithic art of two UNESCO World Heritage–listed cave regions: France’s Vézère Valley and the northern coast of Spain.
  • Meet leading archaeologists and anthropologists for talks and private tours of cave sites.
  • Visit Castel-Merle with Isabelle Castanet, whose family has excavated the site for generations.
  • Explore Sarlat, France, and Santillana del Mar, Spain, two of Europe's best-preserved medieval villages.

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"We booked a National Geographic expedition Holland and Belgium by River. The promotional literature promised a 14-day deposit refund window. The “invoice” was marked “non-refundable” deposit. We completed the National Geographic Traveler Information. About 8 days later we received the “Travel Agreement” to be signed. We both approved and signed the National Geographic documents. A Cruise Line Travel agreement was enclosed but had no signature line. This document contained language which was unacceptable. We submitted the signed NatGeo documents. The following day we canceled the trip due to the unacceptable Cruise Line language. Cancellation was made 12 days after booking and no deposit was returned. We were told on the phone that the refund deadline was triggered by the 14 day window OR signatures on the Travel Agreement which ever came first. This was NEW information. To date, we have received NO refund of our $1000. We cancelled our trip within the advertised 14 day window."

Trip dates & details
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Luxury Greece
5/5 Excellent
91 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Acropolis, Athens, Crete, Mykonos, Santorini

Highlights

  • Visit Knossos & Arolithos Traditional Village
  • Visit the Acropolis and the incredible museum of Acropolis.
  • Enjoy the famous cosmopolitan town of Mykonos with white-washed cubic houses, windmills and chapels.
  • See the Constitution Square (Syntagma), the House of Parliament, the National Library
  • Enjoy the jet- setting city of Mykonos, ancient church Paraportiani & little Venice
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Relaxing Retreats

What travelers are saying

"On our trip to Amalfi coast, the bus was parked in a field for two days. The next day, we had an 8 hour bus trip to Sicily. The bus was not properly cleaned before and after it had been parked in the field. On the 8 hour trip to Sicily, there was an infestation of ants. We had tons of ants crawling on the seats, windows, and floor. My husband killed 10 ants on his body. I received bits on my ankles and wrists. The tour guide never said anything to any of the guests. When we confronted him, all he said was that he would have the bus cleaned the next day. These was horrible conditions to travel for 8 hours. I have written to Perillo seeking a refund for that day's service. Time will tell if Perillo will actually answer my evaluation. This situation rises to the occasion where customer service was extremely poor an unhealthy, and a partial refund should be granted. If Perillo stands behind customer service as its motto, then they should provide partial refunds for this day. If not, then this leads me to assume that Perillo is more concerned about overall profits than good customer service. Time will tell!"

Trip dates & details
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Other trips you may like [sponsored]
A Week in Jordan
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Amman, Aqaba, Dead Sea, Jerash, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum

Highlights

  • Discover the secrets of Petra with two full days exploring the Red Rose City
  • Experience Bedouin life at our private desert camp in Wadi Rum
  • Stroll through the ancient Roman streets of Jerash
  • Float in the tranquil waters of the Dead Sea, an unmissable experience
  • Visit Mount Nebo, said to be the burial site of Moses

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Azerbaijan & Georgia Experience
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Georgia, Narikala Fortress , Tbilisi

Highlights

  • Azerbaijan's cosmopolitan capital of Baku is often referred to as the 'new Dubai'. Enjoy a guided walking tour around the city's World Heritage-listed Old Town.
  • Mud volcanoes, ancient mosques, lush forests and tall peaks – the Caucasus Mountains will take your breath away.
  • Navigate the organised chaos of the farmers markets in Telavi. Your leader will be there to help you order as much fresh fruit, nuts or pigs heads as you desire.
  • Journey to the Svaneti region, a remote and alluring land of snow-capped mountains, discover the iconic tower houses dotted amongst mountain valleys and learn of one of the highest settlement in Europe - Ushguli people and its fascinating culture and traditions.
  • Far from a mere sightseeing tour, this trip is active and hands-on. You'll try your hand at preparing delicious local food and have plenty of chances to hike and explore.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Greece: Sparta, Monemvasia & the Peloponnesian Peninsula
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Athens, Crete, Santorini

Highlights

  • Uncover the treasures of the hillside medieval gem of Mystras, the Byzantine Empire’s cultural capital for nearly a millennium, with an expert archaeologist-guide.
  • Savor the recipes and the flavors of ancient Byzantine cuisine during a special dinner.
  • Walk through the maze of alleyways in the medieval castle town of Monemvasia, a crossroads of civilizations with Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman influences.
  • Cruise around the monolithic Rock of Monemvasia.
  • Join a taverna owner on a shrimp-harvesting excursion, then join him for a cooking lesson and prepare garidopetoules—a savory shrimp pancake.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Nature & Wildlife, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"This was the first organized tour my husband and I have ever joined, so we were not sure what to expect , but it turned out to be the best vacation we've ever had. The scenery and food were amazing. We stayed in beautiful hotels. Most of the riding was on paved bike paths so we hardly ever had to deal with car traffic. Our leaders, Andrea and Martin, were funny, informative , and so helpful. We are already planning to go back to Italy with VBT this summer."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
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Spain: Barcelona & Costa Brava
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Barcelona

Highlights

  • Explore Girona’s cultural treasures, including the old Jewish quarter, medieval walls, Gothic churches, and Romanesque architecture.
  • Savor superb Catalan seafood and farm-fresh cuisine, complemented by excellent local wines including sparkling cava.
  • Cycle through history, stopping to view Greco-Roman ruins at Empúries, Gothic gems in Girona, and charming medieval villages.
  • Discover the most important Greco-Roman ruins on the Iberian Peninsula at the coastal archeological site at Empúries.
  • Immerse yourself in authentic Catalonian village life in historic Pals.

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Photography

What travelers are saying

"This was the first organized tour my husband and I have ever joined, so we were not sure what to expect , but it turned out to be the best vacation we've ever had. The scenery and food were amazing. We stayed in beautiful hotels. Most of the riding was on paved bike paths so we hardly ever had to deal with car traffic. Our leaders, Andrea and Martin, were funny, informative , and so helpful. We are already planning to go back to Italy with VBT this summer."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Ireland: Galway & Connemara Coast
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Connemara, Cork, Dublin, Galway

Highlights

  • Delight in the lilt of an Irish brogue as a local expert leads you on a guided tour of The Burren.
  • Explore the medieval churches, Neolithic tombs, and sacred sites of Noughaval.
  • Marvel at the rugged and magical countryside of Connemara, whose mountains, lakes, and peat bogs have inspired poets for centuries.
  • View Kylemore Abbey, the oldest Benedictine abbey in Ireland.
  • Listen to crashing surf as you trace the coastline of the unspoiled, tranquil Renvyle Peninsula.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"This was the first organized tour my husband and I have ever joined, so we were not sure what to expect , but it turned out to be the best vacation we've ever had. The scenery and food were amazing. We stayed in beautiful hotels. Most of the riding was on paved bike paths so we hardly ever had to deal with car traffic. Our leaders, Andrea and Martin, were funny, informative , and so helpful. We are already planning to go back to Italy with VBT this summer."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Mississippi: The Natchez Trace
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Jackson, Mississippi, Natchez , Vicksburg

Highlights

  • Roll through centuries of history along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a National Scenic Byway and All-American Road.
  • Ponder the legacy of the Civil War at the ruins of the Windsor Plantation.
  • Relive the Siege of Vicksburg on a guided tour with a local historian as you tour Vicksburg National Military Park by bicycle.
  • Visit the sprawling Emerald Mound, one of the largest Native American ceremonial sites.
  • Customize your own “Pilgrimage” of Natchez’s stately antebellum homes.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"This was the first organized tour my husband and I have ever joined, so we were not sure what to expect , but it turned out to be the best vacation we've ever had. The scenery and food were amazing. We stayed in beautiful hotels. Most of the riding was on paved bike paths so we hardly ever had to deal with car traffic. Our leaders, Andrea and Martin, were funny, informative , and so helpful. We are already planning to go back to Italy with VBT this summer."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
5 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Small Group Tour

Ruins & Archaeology Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
768  Reviews
See all Ruins & Archaeology tour reviews
Excellent
93
Great
11
Average
1
Disappointing
0
Terrible
3
A

Australian Traveller

Feb 2020

Written on

Excellent tour of Cambodia

We enjoyed a week's tour of Cambodia (Siem Reap - Battambang - Phnon Penh) with Odynovo, with many attractions and activities included. It was easy to book online, a...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

A Week in Petra

A great week with a great bunch of people This was the trip just as I expected it - Petra being the highlight, but Wadi Rum coming a close second. Or maybe Jerash?...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Great holiday, but communication could have been improved

The week was very enjoyable and there was a lot to see and it was a very varied itinerary. Visiting Petra and seeing the Treasury for the first time. Alaa was cle...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

a week in jordon

full on trip which was very informative and interesting. all sites were good especially Petra, Little Petra and camping in Wadi Rum Eddy was entertaining and engag...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Fantastic week, thoroughly recommend

An awe inspiring trip, with something for everyone, and covering all the key sights, sounds and tastes of Jordan. I knew I wanted to see Petra, but didn't really h...

Write a Review

Ruins & Archaeology Tour Selection Trips

  • Travel Tips for Archeological Tours 
    An archaeology vacation offers an exciting opportunity to explore ancient civilizations and uncover hidden treasures. To make the most of your experience, consider these practical travel tips:
    Dress comfortably and wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain of archaeological sites.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent to protect yourself from the elements.
  • Stay hydrated by carrying a refillable water bottle and replenishing fluids regularly, especially in hot climates.
  • Pack light but include essentials like a camera, binoculars, and a journal to capture memories and observations.
  • Respect the archaeological sites by following guidelines, refraining from touching artifacts, and staying on designated paths.
  • Take breaks to rest and recharge, ensuring you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without feeling fatigued.
  • Stay informed about local customs, traditions, and cultural norms to show respect for the host country and its people.
  • Be open-minded and curious, embracing the opportunity to learn from expert guides and fellow travelers while exploring ancient history firsthand.

Additional details

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