colette travel kit

The Scoop: What to Know About Collette

This award-winning tour company has been leading trips for more than a century..

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Collette offered its first guided travel tour in 1918, a three-week trip aboard a jitney bus from Boston to Florida that cost just $68.50. Today the third-generation family-owned business leads more than 170 tours in a variety of styles to all seven continents.

The longest-running tour operator in North America, Collette is known for its comprehensive travel protection plan, flexible tour pacing, and strong relationships in the travel space.

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A sense of social responsibility guides the company’s actions in everything from tour planning to operations on the ground. Through the nonprofit Collette Foundation, it supports hunger and education initiatives around the world, and employees volunteer more than 4,500 hours of their time each year.

TourScoop Takeaways 

• Destinations: More than 170 tours on all seven continents
• Tour Size Average: The average group size for a Classic tour is 32 travelers; for Small Group Explorations, the group size averages 16.
• Tour Type: Small-group tours and cruises

How to Book

Travelers can book through Collette’s website , by calling 800-340-5158, or through a travel agent.

Credibility Check

Collette received golds in two categories (Best Escorted Tour Operator, US; and Best Escorted Tour Operator, Canada) at the 2023 Travvy Awards and won the Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award in 2023. It was also named Best Tour Operator for Domestic Escorted Tours and Best Tour Operator for Canadian Tours by Travel Weekly Reader’s Choice Awards in 2022. Collette has a 4.7/5 rating on TravelStride based on more than 4,100 reviews.

Tour Destinations

Collette tours travel to all seven continents. The company has itineraries in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia. Africa, and Antarctica.

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Collette offers tours in five different travel styles. Classic tours, the company’s original group-tour style, take in the sights and explore the cultures of destinations around the world, with an average of 32 people and maximum of 44 travelers. Small Group Explorations immerse travelers even further into a destination and travel with an average of 16 guests.

Spotlights tours feature a single hotel stay and itineraries that help travelers explore a city like a local. Faith tours travel to some of the world’s most historic religious sites and regions, and Cruising tours travel waterways like the Danube, Yangtze, and Nile Rivers. Private tours are also available for groups of 10 or more.

Tour descriptions include activity level rankings, ranging from 1 for leisurely paced experiences to 4 for highly active trips.

Tour Guides

Collette’s Tour Managers tend to make an impression on travelers. The highly trained local experts, some of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years, bring a destination’s history and culture to life and add their own insights and favorite spots to the experience for a more personal touch. 

What’s Included

Collette’s tour pricing includes accommodations, itinerary activities, and the majority of meals during a tour. 

What’s Not Included

Optional excursions, pre- or post-tour extensions, and airfare are not included in the tour price. However, travelers have the option to add those extras when booking a tour. Land prices also do not include transfers, visas, and gratuities.

EXPLAINER: How Much Should You Tip on a Guided Tour

Typical Travelers

Collette says its travelers are “typically experienced, yet curious travelers. They’re interested in getting beneath the surface and digging deeper into what a destination has to offer.” Children over the age of five may travel on Collette tours as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Communication

Collette Tour Managers reach out and introduce themselves to travelers prior to each departure and also provide a means of contact for travelers while they are on tour. A representative from Collette contacts travelers if there are any issues or changes with the departure. Guests can also log in to the Collette mobile app up to 45 days before departure.

Loyalty Program

The Collette Passport Club rewards travelers for every trip they take. After completing one or two tours with the company, travelers receive a 5% Loyalty Credit on their next Collette tour when completed within 12 months of their most recent tour departure date. After three or more completed tours, travelers also get a $100 credit toward the purchase of optional tour components on their next trip.

Sustainability Efforts

All of Collette’s Small Group Explorations tours are carbon neutral and include an “Impact Moment” where travelers might visit a local social enterprise, nonprofit, or cultural or environmental conservation group. Responsible travel is a priority, and Collette ensures its tours take things like animal welfare and the preservation of local communities into consideration.

Health and Safety Practices

Collette’s website provides travelers with information on travel alerts and travel requirements, and has a travel protection plan available for purchase.

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Tour Scoop’s team of travel experts brings you in-depth tour company overviews, tour itinerary reviews, the latest tour news, and travel tips and advice written just for guided tour travelers like you.

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Collette Reviews (5,771)

Wilderness of southern africa: safari by land & water (johannesburg to victoria falls) (2024), wonders of thailand discovering ancient wonders and natural beauty from bangkok to phuket (2024), collette tours.

Canadian Rockies by Train (Vancouver, BC to Calgary, AB) (2025)

• Explore Stanley Park's urban rainforest Ride the Canadian through the Rockies Cruise on Maligne Lake's sparkling waters Walk on the Columbia Icefield Skywalk Learn about ammolite in Banff

Tropical Costa Rica (San Jose to Guanacaste) (2024)

• Explore a local coffee plantation in Central Valley Take a guided riverboat trip in Cano Negro Experience a farm-to-table lunch at a local farm Cruise on Lake Arenal and walk in Monteverde Relax on the sandy beaches of Guanacaste

California Dreamin': Monterey, Yosemite & Napa (Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA) (2025)

• Monterey Scenic 17-Mile Drive Yosemite National Park Sacramento Choice on Tour Lake Tahoe Scenic Cruise Napa Valley Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting San Francisco

Canyon Country featuring Arizona & Utah (Scottsdale, AZ to Las Vegas, NV) (2025)

• Explore canyons in the American West Raft or hike at Lake Powell See the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon Ride through Zion National Park Experience the Vegas strip

Canyon Country featuring Arizona & Utah (Scottsdale, AZ to Las Vegas, NV) (2024)

• Explore canyons in the American West Raft through the iconic Horseshoe Bend Cruise on the stunning Lake Powell Hike among Bryce Canyon's hoodoos Discover the beauty of Zion National Park

Canadian Maritimes and Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail

• Explore Halifax and its historic waterfront Visit Peggy's Cove and its iconic lighthouse Learn Gaelic phrases at the Gaelic College Enjoy a lobster supper in Prince Edward Island Walk the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks

The Northern Lights of Finland (2024)

• Explore Helsinki's historic Senate Square Chase the northern lights in Lapland Ride a reindeer sleigh under Arctic skies Lead a husky team through snowy forests Sleep under the stars in a glass igloo

Pacific Northwest & California featuring Washington, Oregon and California (Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA) (2025)

• Explore Seattle's historic Pioneer Square Visit the Pike Place Market in Seattle See the Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Cruise the Rogue River in Oregon Walk among giant redwoods in California

Exploring the Alpine Countries Austria - Germany - Switzerland (Vienna to Lucerne) (2024)

• Explore Vienna's historic Schönbrunn Palace Cruise along the scenic Danube River Tour the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle Sample Black Forest cake in its homeland Stroll through Zurich and Lucerne's old towns

• Bangkok Reclining Buddha Emerald Buddha Bangkok Street Food Choice on Tour: Suan Pakkad Palace Museum or Marble Temple Sukhothai Chiang Rai The Golden Triangle Chiang Mai Elephant Experience in Chiang Mai Choice on Tour: Thai Massage or Dinner Lanna Home Visit Home-Hosted Meal Phuket Tuk Tuk Rides

Collette Destinations

• England (12)
• France (11)
• Ireland (10)
• Portugal (8)
• Croatia (7)
• Iceland (6)
• Scotland (5)

Latin America

North america, collette videos.

About Collette

Since 1918, Collette has earned a global reputation as a travel company that offers extraordinary experiences, unsurpassed guest service and a wide appeal.

Traveling with Collette comes with benefits that take the guided travel experience to another level. Our inclusive tours offer you more value for your money while also ensuring that each element adheres to our exacting standards. With a focus on service and quality, we give you more of what makes travel special.

Collette’s diverse travel collection features comprehensive land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group tours, city stays and a variety of travel styles and tour types to meet every traveler’s needs. We seamlessly handle the details - all our guests need to do is enjoy the journey.

Collette gives back to children in our local communities and around the world through our non-profit organization Collette Cares. With a focus on hunger and education and a robust volunteer program, we aim to make the world we travel a better place. Through volunteerism and grant support, we strive to make a better world – starting right in our own communities.

Why Collette

More Peace of Mind Every moment of your travel experience is important to us. Whether it’s helping you select a destination, taking you to and from the airport, offering the security of our unrivaled Travel Protection plan or 24-7 support, we are there for you every step of the way. More Expertise Backed by nearly a century of experience, Collette (a family-owned and award-winning leader in travel) is proud to show you the world. Our passionate tour design team travels the globe, creating new experiences and staying ahead of the latest travel trends. Plus, with a professional Tour Manager at your service and local guides by your side you'll never miss a thing. More On Tour Our commitment to exceeding expectations begins with including more iconic must-see’s and cultural inclusions that deliver a deeper experience.  And that's just the beginning. We also include more meals in local restaurants and more menu choices. Add in carefully selected 4-star accommodations and the stage is set for a truly amazing journey. More Flexibility Every traveler is different. From pre and post nights in the world’s greatest cities, to tour extensions to built-in free time in your destination, you can make every trip your own. With more customization choices, and optional excursions, every moment feels like your own personal adventure.

Collette History & Story

History Back in 1918, when Jack Collette started the company, the first tour to ever run was made up of a jitney bus of travelers that left Boston, Massachusetts headed for Florida. This three-week adventure cost just $61.50! At that time few could have foreseen that nearly 100 years later, that same company would be taking guests from around the world to all seven continents. Today Collette is now a global company. With offices in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, its team of dedicated experts can cater to the tastes of distinct groups of travelers. Collette's diverse travel collection features comprehensive land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group tours, city stays, and a variety of travel styles and tour types to meet every traveler's needs.  We seamlessly handle the details - all our guests need to do is enjoy the journey. Awards Collette has been honored with Travel Weekly's 21st annual Readers' Choice Awards (RCAs) on December 13, 2023. Collette was thrilled to take home two awards at the RCAs this year: Best Tour Operator for the US and Best Tour Operator for Canada.

The Travelling Well Experience

Each guest that travels with us deserves a memorable and fulfilling travel experience. And we intend to continue to deliver on that promise. Your health, well-being, and enjoyment remain our top focus — just as they have been since we started in 1918.

Our team consults with health and security experts all around the world to ensure a healthy and enjoyable travel experience. Let’s take a look into the steps we’re taking for you.

Cancel for Any Reason Waiver

Our Travel Protection Plan financially protects you in the event you need to cancel or move your trip to a different date. Learn more here

Pre-Tour Health Screenings

We will ask all travellers to complete a wellness declaration form before joining their tour.

Private Sedan Service

Your ride to and from the airport will be stocked with fresh water for every pickup and all surfaces will be disinfected daily and after every passenger.

Specific details will vary by airline, but standard operations typically include flight attendants wearing masks, sanitizing all surfaces between flights and physical distancing. For links to major airlines, head to the bottom of the page, or visit your airline’s website for specific information.

Smaller Groups

Tours will operate with a number of empty seats to allow guests to space out for a more comfortable experience.

Your Tour Manager

We have employed new and enhanced hygiene & physical distancing protocols for tour managers. They are local experts and highly trained to handle a variety of unexpected situations — including illnesses and emergencies. They are also available 24/7 for guests throughout the tour should any situation arise.

Use of Face Coverings

Face coverings will be included with your pre-tour documents and will be required throughout many experiences on tour including the motor coach and air travel.

Motor Coach

All surfaces will be sanitized often, including regular cleaning of high-touch areas with disinfecting wipes. Hand sanitizer will be available at all times and drivers will wear protective gear when appropriate.

On-Tour Experiences

We work closely with our local partners to ensure adequate physical distancing during meals, experiences, and sightseeing. Guests may be rotated in smaller sub-groups when necessary.

On-Tour Insurance Coverages

When you purchase our Travel Protection Plan, you’ll have access to telehealth services should you need it, plus you’re covered on tour for emergency assistance, baggage loss, trip interruption, medical expenses, and more. Learn more here

Self-Screening

We will ask all travellers to monitor their health throughout their tour, with protocols in place in the event someone becomes ill.

Specific protocols will vary from destination to destination, hotel to hotel. Overall, rooms and areas like restaurants, fitness centres, etc. will be deep-cleaned regularly, with rooms disinfected thoroughly between guests. High-traffic areas like lobbies and elevators will be cleaned hourly.

After you get home, you’ll be able to share your opinions of your tour experience, allowing us to constantly improve for the benefit of future guests.

Sustainability

We’re proud of our long legacy of giving back, especially to our local communities. Today, we are driving that legacy forward by continuing to be more responsible across four focus areas: People, Community, Planet, and Travel. People: Our employees are at the heart of our responsibility platform; pushing for change, creating priorities, and generously giving their time to support programs and initiatives. Community: We seek to support our local communities and those across the world through grants and initiatives that focus on ending hunger and improving education outcomes, especially among children Planet: Because our industry relies heavily on fossil fuels and contributes to global climate change, we feel it is important for us as a company to address our impact on the environment. Travel: We want to make responsible decisions when it comes to traveling to destinations across the world. This includes supporting and promoting local culture, heritage, and economies. These are the initiatives that this operator has in place to make your adventure more sustainable: Sustainability Programs - Invests a percentage of revenue back into community projects or sustainability projects  - We host community-building or sustainability projects for tour-goers to partake in Reducing Carbon Emissions - Has a program in place and are working towards becoming fully carbon neutral Supporting Destinations and Local Communities - Hires local guides - Brings our passengers to locally run restaurants & businesses Animal Welfare - Does not offer any tours that include elephant riding - Does not offer any tours that use animals for entertainment - We avoid places that sell/eat parts of endangered animals on tour Company Culture - Hosts community-building or sustainability projects for staff to partake in - Educates people about sustainability through our marketing    

Questions & Answers

How can i plan for shore landings.

Special clothing is required for the shore landings (Antarctica, Galapagos); please refer to your predeparture documents for important details.

Are attractions always available?

Access to some attractions or Collette Foundation sites may be affected by the observance of holidays, weather conditions or other circumstances. As a result, the days and order of sightseeing may change to best utilize your time on tour. Boat rides are weather permitting. Some attractions may not be available during the "off-season" months. When attractions are unavailable, other similar attractions will be substituted. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

When can I check into my hotel?

Normal check-in time is late afternoon in most locations. Due to early arrival times into some cities, rooms may not always be available for immediate check-in.

What is the difference between a twin room and a double room?

In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.

How can I be best prepared for the pacing and physical requirements on a Collette tour?

Tour pacing varies by itinerary, and each destination's sightseeing and activities are unique. Pacing is subject to personal interpretation. At Collette, we do include the best a destination has to offer, enhancing your overall tour experience. For overnight pacing of a tour, please refer to the "Accommodations" section on each tour page and on the tour map. These describe the number of nights you will stay in each hotel during your tour. The day-by-day descriptions will provide additional detail about the number of activities included in each day. The Tour Activity Level Ranking is featured on each tour itinerary in a circle. The definition of each activity level is listed here. If you have additional questions regarding a specific tour, please inquire at time of reservation. For your comfort, we recommend packing comfortable walking shoes so you can fully enjoy every aspect of your tour. Level 1: At a very leisurely pace, this tour involves minimal physical activity, such as climbing some stairs, boarding a motorcoach, and walking from the hotel reception area to hotel rooms and dining areas. Level 2: This tour requires average physical activity. You should be in good health, able to climb stairs and walk reasonable distances, possibly over uneven ground and cobblestoned streets. Level 3: This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected. Level 4: To truly experience the program and destination, you need to be able to participate in physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and periods of standing. Some of the touring days may be longer, with select included activities occurring later in the evening. Level 5: This tour is very active, requiring participants to be physically fit to fully enjoy all the experiences. This itinerary has more strenuous activities which may include such things as: extensive walking tours, transfers over uneven and dusty terrain, high altitudes, early morning departures, late night activities, or extreme temperatures. All conditions do not apply to all days, so please read the itinerary carefully and speak to one of our travel counselors to determine if this tour is right for you. We recommend this program to individuals who are physically fit. Unfortunately, this tour is not appropriate for individuals who use either walkers or wheelchairs. If this trip is not ideally suited for you, our travel counselors can help determine the perfect trip for you.

Where do I meet my Tour Manager?

Your tour will begin at your first hotel. The Tour Manager will make contact with you at the hotel and will provide details relating to your tour. The hotel's address and phone number will be included in your documents.

Is there a lot of walking on tour?

We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.

Can children travel on a Collette tour?

Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults.

Contact our Travel Experts

+1 844 311 8331

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Our team of experienced tour specialists have travelled to hundreds of countries around the globe and have decades of first-hand travel experience to share. Contact us now to have all of your tour-related questions answered!

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Discover Collette Travels: Value, Expertise, and Over 100 Amazing Years of Travel

Table of contents.

Hello, Wonderous Travelers!

Today, we are spotlighting Collette Explorations — our preferred partner for diverse and inclusive travel packages for all seven continents. The family-owned company with over 100 years of experience where every traveler is treated as a personal guest.

Here, you’ll read about how their passionate team is dedicated to creating unforgettable moments for you, offering inclusive tours that elevate your guided travel experience to new heights. With Collette, you receive exceptional value and a deeper exploration of the world’s wonders.

A Closer Look at Collette

In 1918, amidst post-World War I celebrations, Jack Collette launched Collette Tours. The inaugural tour, a three-week journey from Boston to Florida for $68.50, marked the beginning of a legendary travel legacy. Over almost a century, Collette has evolved from New England tours to global explorations, spanning all seven continents. 

Today, Collette’s diverse travel portfolio encompasses an array of immersive experiences, including land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group adventures, family vacations, and specialized garden holidays. Venture out on each day of your Collette tour with anticipation, knowing that every moment will bring a fresh adventure!

Why Collette?

• Value of Guided Travel : When we offer clients a Collette tour, they save precious time and money by avoiding the stress of planning every detail yourself and still have unscheduled time for your own exploring. Together, we ensure you receive exceptional value and memorable experiences on every journey.

• Over 100 Years of Experience : With a history dating back to 1918 and the prestigious recognition as one of the original tour providers by the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), Collette stands as the oldest guided travel company in North America. This wealth of experience translates into finely curated itineraries, exclusive insights, and the assurance that you are in the hands of seasoned experts who prioritize delivering exceptional journeys to every traveler.

Why Travelers Love Collette Explorations?

Why would our advisors bring Collette Explorations into the mix of options when planning a trip with our clients?  We hear comments like:

— In the past I’ve traveled independently, but for this destination I think I may want a safety net.

— I avoid escorted tours because they are big groups on big buses and they are fast paced; too bad there aren’t small groups

— I like to learn about the culture, meet locals, and have off beat experiences.

— I prefer centrally located hotels that convey the local vibe and in an area with cafes and evening options to explore.

— I like having some structure when I travel, but I also appreciate some free time to soak up the unexpected joys of traveling.

— I’m always trying to find the most authentic places to eat and drink, but it’s so hard with so many options to choose from!

The President and CEO of Collette say that “Every Collette tour was designed with the goal of getting you closer to the culture of your destination. Explorations travelers get to go places larger groups often can’t, and they get to learn from experts who live there.”

If this sounds like your style of adventuring, Collette Explorations may be a fit for you! Let’s talk!

Must-See Checklist by Collette Explorations

• Central/South America — Discover Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas” Nestled in the heart of a tropical mountain forest, this breathtaking Incan ruin dates back to the 15th century. As one of the world’s most remarkable artistic and architectural wonders, it showcases the ingenuity and sophistication of the Incan civilization. Gazing over its verdant terraces, you can’t help but envision life amidst such magnificent beauty.

• Europe — Witness the Northern Lights in Finland & Iceland ** The enchanting Aurora Borealis may be elusive, but encountering this mesmerizing natural light show is a truly magical experience. In Finland, you can sleep in a glass igloo amid the Lappish wilderness, marveling as the lights dance above your bed. In Iceland, sail on a nighttime cruise to chase the dazzling display, where the reflection on the water makes it all the more breathtaking.

** Check out our Northern Lights blog post for more info on this phenomenon!

• South Pacific — Explore the Great Barrier Reef Set sail for one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef. As the world’s largest living organism, it boasts over 2,800 individual coral reef systems teeming with incredibly diverse marine life. There are countless ways to immerse yourself in this underwater paradise. However you choose to experience it, the Reef promises an unforgettable adventure.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to see why we are so happy to showcase Collette Explorations as our preferred supplier this week! Choosing Collette means setting out on a journey filled with extraordinary experiences, meticulously crafted itineraries, and the comfort of knowing every detail is handled with care.

Check out their website and let us know if there is an itinerary that pops out at you. Let us here at Willamette International Travel turn your travel dreams into reality!

Collette Website

Follow Collette on social media!

Ready to explore the world with these one-of-a-kind itineraries ? Contact our excellent travel experts at 503-224-0180 or email  [email protected] .

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