Road Trip itineraries

This self-launched version of Intrepid Travel's "Tasmania Adventure" swaps their private vehicle for your own hire car, covering the same Freycinet, Cradle Mountain, Bay of Fires, and Tarkine rainforest route at your own pace. Cost estimate includes a 6-day economy car rental and fuel split between 2 travellers, budget motel/hostel stays in place of the operator's hotel, a Tasmania Parks holiday pass, and self-catered meals. All costs below are approximate per person, assuming 2 people sharing the rental car.

Travel Crew

~£720

A self-launched 21-day adventure through New Zealand's North and South Islands — covering geothermal Rotorua, Māori culture, the volcanic plateau, Wellington, the Cook Strait ferry, Kaikōura wildlife, Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown thrills, Milford Sound, and the Dark Sky reserve at Lake Tekapo. All the same iconic stops as the Gap 360 group tour, done independently using intercity buses (InterCity/FlixBus NZ), the Interislander ferry, budget hostels, and self-bookable activities via GetYourGuide and direct operators. Costs are approximate estimates per person based on current backpacker rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,390

The classic East Coast Australia adventure — Sydney to Cairns via Byron Bay, Brisbane, K'gari (Fraser Island), the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef — done entirely independently. You'll hit every iconic stop, sleep in the same style of accommodation (backpacker hostels, camping, sailing boats), and book the same key experiences directly or via GetYourGuide/Klook — without paying for a group leader or operator markup. Estimated saving: over £900 per person vs the Gap 360 group tour price.

Travel Crew

~£1,490

The ultimate East Coast Australia adventure — done your way, at a fraction of the group tour price. This self-launched route follows the classic backpacker trail from Sydney to Cairns, taking in world-class surf at Byron Bay, sand dune driving on K'gari (Fraser Island), two nights sailing the Whitsundays, koala spotting on Magnetic Island, and snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef. All transport, accommodation, and activities can be booked independently using local operators, Greyhound/Premier Coach passes, and platforms like GetYourGuide and Klook. Estimated cost: ~£1,350 per person (excluding flights, visa, and travel insurance) — a saving of over £1,500 vs the Gap 360 group tour.

Travel Crew

~£1,350

Explore the best of New Zealand's North and South Islands independently — from Rotorua's geothermal wonders and Waitomo's glowworm caves to Queenstown's adrenaline, Milford Sound's fiords, and Tekapo's dark skies. This self-launched version follows the same iconic route as Gap 360's 21-day group tour but replaces guided group transport with buses and shuttles, swaps lodge packages for quality hostels, and lets you book activities directly — saving you over £1,300 per person. All cost estimates are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,450

This self-launched version of CIE Tours' popular Taste of Iceland coach tour covers all 17 destinations — Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and the Blue Lagoon — but replaces the guided coach and premium hotel package with a self-drive rental car, guesthouses, and direct-bookable activities. Iceland is one of the most self-launch-friendly destinations in Europe: the Ring Road is straightforward to navigate, most attractions are free to access, and a hire car gives you total flexibility. All cost estimates are approximate and based on mid-2025 solo backpacker/budget traveller rates in GBP.

Travel Crew

~£950

Explore the best of both islands independently — from Auckland's harbour and the magic of Hobbiton, through Rotorua's geothermal wonders and Wellington's culture, to the South Island's jaw-dropping landscapes at Mount Cook, Wanaka, Milford Sound and Queenstown. This self-launched equivalent mirrors Gap 360's 17-day group tour but cuts out the operator markup entirely. You'll use public InterCity coaches, the Interislander ferry (or a budget domestic flight), and self-book all activities directly or via GetYourGuide/Klook. Staying in comparable hostel dorms throughout, you can expect to spend roughly £950–£1,100 per person — saving over £1,400 on the commercial price. All cost estimates are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,050

This self-launched version of Acacia Adventure Holidays' iconic 58-day Gorillas to Cape Town route takes you through 9 countries — Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa — at a fraction of the guided tour price. You'll swap the overland truck for a mix of local buses, shared minibuses, and public ferries, and sleep in well-rated guesthouses, budget lodges, and campsites along the way. The big-ticket experiences — mountain gorilla trekking, chimp tracking, Serengeti game drives, Victoria Falls, Okavango mokoro rides, and Sossusvlei — are all self-bookable independently or via GetYourGuide and local operators. Note: Mountain gorilla permits (~£700–£800 for Uganda/Bwindi, or ~£1,200 for Rwanda) and chimpanzee trek permits (~£100–£150) are the single biggest costs and must be booked months in advance. All costs below are approximate estimates per person.

Travel Crew

~£5,200

Explore the very best of Portugal independently — from Lisbon's grand squares and Sintra's fairytale palaces to Porto's riverside wine bars, the medieval hilltowns of the Alentejo, and the dramatic sea cliffs of the Algarve. This self-launched version follows the same 11-day route as Destination Services Portugal's guided tour, swapping 4-star group hotel blocks and a private coach for comfortable guesthouses, boutique hostels, regional trains, and local buses. You'll visit every landmark on the original itinerary — Fátima, Coimbra, Guimarães, Braga, Évora, Lagos, Sagres — at a fraction of the cost. All cost estimates are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£750

This self-launched version of Europamundo's classic North-to-South Europe sweep takes you from Berlin through Prague, the Austrian Alps, Switzerland, the Italian cities, and on to Madrid and Barcelona — all on your own terms. You'll swap 4-star group-tour hotels for well-rated budget hotels and hostels, replace coach transfers with trains and budget flights, and book activities directly or via GetYourGuide. The original operator packs a lot in fast — this version keeps the same pace and breadth but puts the savings back in your pocket. All costs are approximate and based on budget/backpacker rates as of 2025.

Travel Crew

~£1,485

Experience the ultimate Central American adventure independently — from Mexico City's street tacos to Costa Rica's cloud forests, covering six countries over 45 days. This self-guided equivalent follows the same iconic route as Intrepid Travel's Epic Central America tour, swapping group tour pricing for local buses, budget hostels and self-bookable experiences. You'll hit Oaxaca, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Palenque, Chichen Itza, Guatemala's Lake Atitlán, Belize's reefs, El Salvador's surf beaches, Nicaragua's volcanoes and Ometepe Island, ending in Costa Rica — all at a fraction of the cost. Estimated costs are approximate and based on current backpacker rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,850

Explore England's largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty entirely on your own terms. This self-launched 9-day walking route through the North Cotswolds takes you from the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh through honey-stone villages, medieval abbeys, and rolling limestone hills — all without paying for a tour operator's logistics markup. Free downloadable OS maps, free walking route apps like Komoot or ViewRanger, and the Cotswold Way signage make this entirely doable solo. Luggage transfers (previously included by the operator) can be self-arranged cheaply via Cotswolds Luggage Transfers (~£10-12/bag/day). Estimated total cost is a fraction of Exodus's USD $3,080 package.

Travel Crew

~£865

The South Island of New Zealand is one of the world's great road-trip canvases — glaciers, fiords, golden beaches, and mountain passes all within a loop you can absolutely do yourself. This self-launched itinerary mirrors Stray Travel's popular Takahe Select route, swapping the guided coach for a mix of InterCity buses, shared shuttles, and a rental car stretch where it makes sense. You'll hit every landmark on the original — Abel Tasman, the West Coast, Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and Lake Tekapo — staying in equivalent hostels and budget hotels at a fraction of the guided-tour price. All activities are self-bookable via GetYourGuide, Klook, or direct with local operators. Costs below are approximate per-person estimates for a solo budget traveller sharing accommodation where possible.

Travel Crew

~£980

An epic 51-day self-launched adventure through six South American countries — from Lima's buzzing streets to Rio's iconic beaches. Hit all the major highlights: the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, the Uyuni Salt Flats, Atacama Desert, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Iguassu Falls and more. By swapping the guided group tour for independent travel — local buses, hostels, and self-booked activities — you can have the same incredible experience for a fraction of the price. All cost estimates are approximate and per person.

Travel Crew

~£2,150

Ditch the group tour price tag and launch this iconic Melbourne-to-Uluru adventure on your own terms. Over 12 days, you'll explore Melbourne's coffee-soaked laneways, cruise the legendary Great Ocean Road, hike through Grampians National Park, and witness the jaw-dropping sunset over Uluru. By swapping private coaches for public transport, shared shuttles, and budget-friendly accommodation, you'll experience every highlight of the original G Adventures itinerary at a fraction of the cost. All estimates are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,055

Trade the Parador price tags for the same stunning Andalucian route — whitewashed hilltowns, sherry country, Via Verde cycle lanes and Cadiz's ancient beaches — all at a fraction of the cost. This self-launched version follows the exact Seville–Carmona–Montellano–Arcos de la Frontera–Jerez–Cadiz route, swapping packaged bike hire and 3/4-star hotels for independently hired bikes, charming mid-range guesthouses and boutique hostels. You'll navigate using free apps like Komoot or Wikiloc, eat where the locals eat, and pocket around £1,400 in savings. All costs are approximate estimates.

Travel Crew

~£585

Experience the full length of Australia's East Coast independently — from Melbourne's culture and the Great Ocean Road, through the Red Centre's Outback, up to Queensland's beaches and the Great Barrier Reef. This self-launched version swaps the G Adventures group tour for hostels, budget trains, shared shuttles, and self-bookable activities, saving you over £1,000 while giving you total freedom. Approximate costs are estimates based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£2,400

Same canyon country adventure, minus the guided tour price tag. This self-launched itinerary takes you from Salt Lake City through Kolob Canyons, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and the Mojave Desert to Las Vegas — hiking hoodoos, e-biking canyon roads, and sleeping under desert stars. You'll book your own entry permits, rent an e-bike independently, and swap the guided ranch package for a mix of budget-friendly lodges and motels — saving hundreds of pounds while keeping every highlight intact.

Travel Crew

~£570

Follow the ancient Silk Road through Uzbekistan's most spectacular landscapes and cities — independently. This self-launched version replicates the full Much Better Adventures premium itinerary: hiking the Chimgan Mountains above Charvak Reservoir, sleeping in yurts in the Nuratau wilderness, cooking plov with locals, cycling Samarkand, and soaking in Bukhara's ancient streets. Swap boutique hotel markups for characterful guesthouses and budget-friendly riads, book activities direct or via GetYourGuide, and travel between cities on Uzbekistan's excellent high-speed rail network. All the adventure, a fraction of the cost.

Travel Crew

~£580

This self-launched version of Exodus's iconic Route 62 cycling journey takes you from Cape Town to Knysna along one of South Africa's most spectacular roads — all independently booked, at a fraction of the guided price. You'll rent your own mountain bike locally, stay in a mix of guesthouses, budget hotels and lodges, and follow the same legendary route through the Cape Winelands, Klein Karoo semi-desert, dramatic mountain passes and down to the Garden Route coast. Local shuttle services, Baz Bus links and shared taxis bridge the gaps where the tour uses support vehicles. Estimated costs are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,055

Swap the guided package for your own self-launched e-bike adventure through the UNESCO vineyards of Piedmont — same ochre villages, same world-class Barolo and Barbaresco wines, same rolling Langhe hills, but at a fraction of the price. Rent your own e-bike locally in Alba or Benevello, book mid-range agriturismi and guesthouses along the route, and use Google Maps / Komoot for navigation. With roughly 130 km of cycling spread across four ride days on mostly quiet country roads, this is a very achievable trip for anyone with a moderate level of fitness. All the highlights — Alba's cobbled streets, Barolo village, Fontanafredda wine cellars, Neive's piazza — are free to explore independently, and the Langhe's restaurants and enoteche offer outstanding food and wine at every price point. Estimated costs below are per person based on shared twin/double accommodation.

Travel Crew

~£1,060

Explore the jaw-dropping wilderness of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks entirely on your own terms. This self-launched 7-day itinerary follows the same iconic route — Jenny Lake, Cascade Canyon, Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Hayden Valley — swapping group tour pricing for budget-friendly lodges, hostels, and campgrounds, plus a rental car instead of a private coach. Entry fees, boat shuttles, and park passes are all self-bookable. Estimated costs are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£750

Uzbekistan is one of Central Asia's most underrated gems — and you don't need a guided tour to experience its magic. This self-launched 10-day route follows the same Tashkent–Samarkand–Aydar Kul–Bukhara–Tashkent arc as G Adventures' classic itinerary, but replaces private vehicles and packaged guiding with high-speed trains, shared taxis, and self-bookable local guides. You'll still sleep in a desert yurt, wander the Registan at golden hour, and get lost in Bukhara's medieval old city — just at a fraction of the price. Budget travellers will find Uzbekistan remarkably affordable, with excellent guesthouse hospitality, cheap plov, and a well-connected rail network making independent travel very straightforward.

Travel Crew

~£497

Skip the group coach and explore four of Canada's most spectacular national parks on your own terms. This self-launched version of Tourland's 5-day Canadian Rockies tour covers all the same highlights — Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, Marble Canyon, the Columbia Icefield and more — but uses a hire car, budget-friendly accommodation, and self-bookable activities to slash the cost dramatically. All prices are approximate estimates per person based on shared costs where applicable (e.g. car hire split between two travellers).

Travel Crew

~£560

Pedal through the sun-baked heel of Italy entirely on your own terms — no tour group, no operator markup. This self-launched cycling route traces the same stunning path from UNESCO-listed Alberobello to Baroque Lecce, taking in the Valle d'Itria, the Ionian coastline, whitewashed Ostuni, and the dramatic tip of Salento at Santa Maria di Leuca. You'll hire your own bike locally, book budget-friendly guesthouses and agriturismi directly, and navigate using free apps like Komoot or Ride with GPS. All costs are approximate estimates per person.

Travel Crew

~£735

Hit Morocco's greatest hits independently — from Casablanca's grand mosques and Chefchaouen's famous blue alleyways, through the ancient medinas of Fes, across the Middle Atlas to the Sahara dunes of Merzouga, and back via the dramatic Draa Valley and Marrakech. This self-launched version follows the same spectacular route as TouaregTrails' guided tour but replaces private drivers and packaged transfers with CTM/Supratours buses, shared grand taxis, and locally booked experiences — saving you well over £1,500 per person. All costs are approximate estimates.

Travel Crew

~£870

Three countries, one epic self-launched adventure — no group tour required. This 22-day independent route takes you from the buzzing streets of Hanoi south to the beach city of Nha Trang, across the Mekong into laid-back Laos, and finally overland into northern Thailand. You'll travel by overnight trains, local buses, and slow boats — soaking up the same riversides and railways as the commercial tour at a fraction of the price. Estimated cost is approximately £550–£620 per person, saving you over £650 compared to the operator price. All costs are approximate and based on current backpacker rates.

Travel Crew

~£590

Same iconic Southern Africa wildlife route — Victoria Falls, Botswana, Mapungubwe, and Kruger — minus the group tour markup. This self-launched itinerary swaps the overland truck and guided package for local buses, shared transfers, budget campsites, and self-bookable safari drives, slashing the cost while keeping every headline experience intact. You'll still walk with elephants, spot the Big Five, and fall asleep under an impossibly starry African sky — you'll just have more money left over for cold Zambians and sundowner beers.

Travel Crew

~£490

Cycle one of Europe's most iconic routes along the Danube from Passau to Vienna entirely on your own terms. The EuroVelo 6 / Donauradweg is a well-signed, dedicated cycle path requiring no guide — just a hired bike, a free navigation app like Komoot, and a sense of adventure. Swap the operator's package hotels for a mix of budget guesthouses and mid-range riverside inns, arrange your own luggage transfers or pack light, and save a huge chunk of what a commercial operator charges. This self-launched version follows the exact same daily stages through hilltop castles, Baroque abbeys, the UNESCO Wachau Valley and sunflower-lined plains — all the magic, none of the markup. Costs below are approximate estimates per person based on solo travel in a shared/double room.

Travel Crew

~£910

This self-launched itinerary replicates Intrepid Travel's popular Essential Southern Balkans route — from Dubrovnik's medieval walls through Montenegro's coastal towns, into Albania's eclectic capital Tirana, along the stunning Albanian Riviera, through Ottoman Gjirokaster, and finally across to the Greek island of Corfu. By swapping the group tour's private vehicle transfers for public buses and shared minibuses, booking accommodation directly, and self-booking included activities, you can experience the same bucket-list journey for a fraction of the cost. All cost estimates are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates in the region.

Travel Crew

~£540

Skip the guided group tour and do Namibia your way — same epic dunes, same wildlife-filled national parks, same starry desert skies. This self-launched route takes you from Windhoek north to Etosha, west to Swakopmund's Atlantic coast, and south through the ancient Namib to Sossusvlei's iconic red dunes. You'll hire a 4x4 camper (the standard independent way to explore Namibia), rent fat bikes and mountain bikes locally, and book game drives directly at park gates. Namibia is one of the most self-drive-friendly countries in Africa — well-signposted gravel roads, excellent campsites, and stunning scenery at every turn. Costs below are estimated per person based on two people sharing a rented 4x4 camper, with some budget guesthouse nights in Swakopmund and Windhoek.

Travel Crew

~£1,450

This self-guided itinerary replicates Intrepid Travel's popular Essential Southern Balkans route — from Dubrovnik's medieval walls through Montenegro's coastal towns, into Albania's eclectic capital Tirana, along the stunning Albanian Riviera, through Ottoman Gjirokaster, and finally across to the Greek island of Corfu. By swapping the group tour's private vehicle transfers for public buses and shared minibuses, booking accommodation directly, and self-booking included activities, you can experience the same bucket-list journey for a fraction of the cost. All cost estimates are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates in the region.

Travel Crew

~£540

Explore southern Oregon's stunning coastline, ancient redwood forests, and the iconic Crater Lake independently — covering the same ground as the Southwest Adventure Tours group tour at a fraction of the price. Hire a rental car in Portland (the most practical way to do this road trip solo) and follow the coast south before looping inland through redwoods and volcanic landscapes. Estimated costs below are per person based on two people sharing a rental car and accommodation; solo travellers should budget slightly more for car hire and single rooms.

Travel Crew

~£810

Ditch the group tour price tag and explore the best of Rajasthan independently — same iconic destinations, same unforgettable experiences, a fraction of the cost. From the chaos of Old Delhi to camel camps in the Thar Desert, blue-washed Jodhpur, romantic Udaipur, the Pink City of Jaipur, and the unmissable Taj Mahal in Agra, this 16-day self-guided adventure packs in everything. Travel by overnight train, local buses and shared taxis; stay in heritage guesthouses and characterful hostels; book activities directly or via GetYourGuide. All cost estimates are approximate and per person.

Travel Crew

~£625

From Cape Town's dramatic coastline to the ancient Cederberg wilderness, the lush Cape Winelands, the iconic Garden Route and an Eastern Cape safari finale — this self-launched version of Much Better Adventures' premium South Africa itinerary gives you the same bucket-list experiences at a fraction of the cost. Swap boutique hotels for stylish guesthouses and well-rated budget lodges, book activities directly or via GetYourGuide, and travel between destinations by pre-booked shuttle and local transport. Estimated cost is approximately £1,200–£1,500 per person excluding flights, compared to £3,000+ with the operator.

Travel Crew

~£1,335

Skip the coach and do America's legendary Cowboy Country on your own terms. This self-launched road trip takes you from Rapid City, South Dakota through the Badlands, the Black Hills, Deadwood, the Bighorns, Cody, and Yellowstone before finishing in Jackson, Wyoming. You'll hit every major landmark — Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Yellowstone, Grand Teton — but swap the guided group bus for a rented car and budget-friendly motels and guesthouses. Estimated costs are approximate and based on one person sharing a twin/double room where applicable, using a rental car split between two travellers.

Travel Crew

~£905

Follow the ancient Silk Road by mountain bike from Tbilisi to the Black Sea, crossing the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, tackling the legendary Goderdzi Pass, and exploring the cave city of Vardzia and Rabati Fortress — all without a guided group tour. This self-launched version swaps the commercial package for independently hired bikes, self-booked guesthouses, and local transport, saving you a substantial chunk while keeping every highlight intact. Georgia is one of Europe's most underrated adventure destinations: the roads are quiet, the guesthouses are warm and welcoming, and the chacha flows freely.

Travel Crew

~£480

A self-launched version of Much Better Adventures' popular Cuba cycling trip — same stunning backroads, Caribbean coastline, and Viñales valley, without the guided tour price tag. You'll hire your own bike in Havana, book casas particulares directly, and follow the same western Cuba route through Las Terrazas, San Diego de los Baños, Puerto Esperanza, and Viñales. Cuba rewards independent travellers who embrace the improvised, warm, and wonderfully unpredictable nature of island life. Note: The UK government currently advises against all but essential travel to Cuba — check the latest FCDO guidance before booking.

Travel Crew

~£485

Experience the very best of Ireland independently — from the literary streets of Dublin to the wild Cliffs of Moher and the iconic Ring of Kerry — at a fraction of the guided tour price. This self-launched itinerary follows the same route as G Adventures' classic Ireland loop, swapping private group transport for buses, trains, and shared transfers, and replacing hotel packages with well-rated guesthouses and budget hotels. You'll still kiss the Blarney Stone, cruise the Cliffs of Moher coastline, walk Galway's medieval lanes, and sink a pint in a traditional Cork pub — you'll just have more money left in your wallet when you do. All costs are approximate estimates per person.

Travel Crew

~£630

Pedal independently through Portugal's stunning Minho region — from the fortified border town of Monção, along the River Minho through vine-draped valleys, past Atlantic fishing villages, and all the way into UNESCO-listed Porto. This self-launched version swaps the Exodus guided package for a hire bike, free navigation apps, budget guesthouses, and self-booked wine tastings — delivering the same incredible route at a fraction of the price. Luggage can be forwarded between stops using local taxi transfers or lightweight panniers. Approximately 250 km of mostly flat-to-downhill cycling across 6 riding days, with one loop day in the Lima valley.

Travel Crew

~£820

Cuba's colonial cities, revolutionary history, and vibrant rhythms — done independently. This self-launched version of G Adventures' classic Cuba itinerary takes you from Havana through Santa Clara, Topes de Collantes, Trinidad, and Cienfuegos before looping back — staying in authentic casas particulares (just like the tour), hopping aboard local Viazul buses and shared taxis, and booking activities directly with local guides. Bring cash (USD or Euros to exchange into CUP on arrival — cards are still largely unreliable in Cuba). Expect warm hospitality, cobblestone streets, and a country unlike anywhere else on Earth, at a fraction of the group-tour price.

Travel Crew

~£370

Swap the guided group tour for a self-launched e-bike adventure through Jordan's most spectacular landscapes — from the Dana Biosphere Reserve to Wadi Rum's red sands and the iconic ruins of Petra. You'll rent your own e-bike, book local guesthouses and Bedouin camps directly, and use shared taxis and public buses between key stops. The route follows the Jordan Bike Trail south from Tafilah to the Dead Sea, taking in Crusader castles, Nabataean trade routes, desert mudflats, and the Red Sea coast. All experiences are self-bookable; entry fees and e-bike rentals are arranged independently. Costs are estimated per person based on budget traveller rates — expect to pay roughly a third of the commercial tour price.

Travel Crew

~£545

Skip the tour group price tag and launch your own epic 10-day South Africa adventure from Cape Town to Johannesburg. Hit every highlight — Table Mountain, Boulders Beach, the Cape Peninsula, and Kruger National Park's Big Five — using budget accommodation, local transport, and self-bookable activities. This self-launched version replicates the full G Adventures Solo-ish experience at a fraction of the cost, perfect for solo travellers ready to roam independently.

Travel Crew

~£870

This self-launched overland adventure takes you through five African countries — Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe — covering iconic highlights from Nairobi's buzz to the thunderous roar of Victoria Falls. You'll swap the group overland vehicle for a mix of shared shuttles, local buses, and budget safari jeep shares, and trade group campsites for a mix of budget guesthouses and hostel dorms. The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar spice island, Lake Malawi, and Victoria Falls are all on the cards — at a fraction of the commercial tour price. Estimated costs are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,050

Ditch the group tour price tag and explore the best of Rajasthan independently — same iconic destinations, same unforgettable experiences, a fraction of the cost. From the chaos of Old Delhi to camel camps in the Thar Desert, blue-washed Jodhpur, romantic Udaipur, the Pink City of Jaipur, and the unmissable Taj Mahal in Agra, this 16-day self-launched adventure packs in everything. Travel by overnight train, local buses and shared taxis; stay in heritage guesthouses and characterful hostels; book activities directly or via GetYourGuide. All cost estimates are approximate and per person.

Travel Crew

~£625

This self-launched version of Stray Travel's iconic Hihi 10-day North Island route takes you from Auckland to Wellington independently — hitting every major stop from Hot Water Beach and Hobbiton to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing — at a fraction of the group tour price. You'll travel by intercity bus (Intercity or FlixBus NZ), stay in the same hostel networks (Haka House, Base Backpackers), and book activities directly or via GetYourGuide. All costs are approximate estimates per person.

Travel Crew

~£845

Experience the iconic wildernesses of Utah, Arizona and California under your own steam — from the sandstone cliffs of Zion to the granite walls of Yosemite, with the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Sequoia and Route 66 in between. This self-launched version follows the same Las Vegas to San Francisco route, swapping group-tour logistics for independent transport, self-booked campsites and GetYourGuide-bookable guided experiences where needed (like Antelope Canyon). Estimated costs are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,045

This self-launched 34-day adventure takes you from Melbourne to Queenstown, covering Australia's iconic cities, the Red Centre, tropical rainforests, the Whitsundays, Byron Bay, and New Zealand's geothermal parks, glaciers, and fiords — all without the group tour price tag. Swap the private coach for trains, buses, and budget flights; replace guided hotel packages with well-reviewed hostels and guesthouses; and book activities directly or through GetYourGuide and Klook. Estimated cost is a fraction of the G Adventures price, while keeping all the highlights you came for.

Travel Crew

~£3,200

Discover Slovenia's most spectacular landscapes by bike — entirely on your own terms. This self-launched 8-day cycling route traces the same iconic path as the Headwater/Exodus tour: from the turquoise shores of Lake Bled through the Julian Alps, along the emerald Soča river, into the wine country of Goriška Brda, across the Karst plateau past Štanjel and the UNESCO Škocjan caves, via the Lipizzaner stud farm at Lipica, and down to the Venetian coastal towns of Koper and Piran. By sourcing your own bike hire, booking accommodation directly, and using public trains and shared transfers, you can follow the same route for a fraction of the operator price. All estimated costs are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£635

Hit all five of Utah's iconic national parks — Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion — plus showstoppers like Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Kodachrome Basin, all on your own terms. This self-launched version swaps the Trafalgar motorcoach and £3,300+ price tag for a rental car, budget-friendly motels and lodges, and self-booked tours, cutting costs dramatically without cutting any of the scenery. Drive one of America's great road-trip routes from Grand Junction, CO to Las Vegas, NV and experience the full Colorado Plateau at your own pace.

Travel Crew

~£1,065

This self-launched cycling adventure follows the iconic Alpe Adria Trail from the turquoise shores of Lake Bled in Slovenia, through the Julian Alps, across the Austrian border and down through the Friuli region of northern Italy to the sun-drenched Adriatic island of Grado. You'll ride mostly on dedicated cycle paths through alpine valleys, medieval walled towns, Roman ruins and vineyard-draped plains — finishing with a dramatic lagoon crossing to the beach. By booking your own hire bike locally, staying in guesthouses and budget hotels, and navigating with free apps like Komoot or Ride with GPS, you can replicate virtually every highlight of the Headwater/Exodus itinerary at a fraction of the price. All costs are approximate estimates per person.

Travel Crew

~£765

Experience the best of New Zealand's South Island independently — from the iconic TranzAlpine train ride across the Southern Alps to the glaciers of the West Coast, the adrenaline capital of Queenstown, the wilderness of Fiordland, and the alpine grandeur of Mount Cook. This self-launched version follows the same route as Stray Travel's Kaka Select tour, swapping the guided group bus for local shuttles, intercity coaches, and rental options, while keeping accommodation comfortable at budget-friendly motels and hostels. All key activities — the TranzAlpine train, Milford Sound cruise, Kepler Track, and Lake Tekapo — are bookable independently. Estimated cost is roughly £950–£1,100 per person, saving you over £800 versus the Stray Travel operator price.

Travel Crew

~£960

This self-launched version of Europamundo's 'Dreams of the West' tour covers the iconic American West — from Los Angeles and Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, San Francisco and the Pacific Coast Highway — all independently, at a fraction of the group tour price. Instead of a guided coach, you'll rent a car or use a combination of budget flights, Greyhound/FlixBus, and rideshares. Accommodation swaps 4-star chain hotels for well-rated budget hotels and motels. All park entries and city tours can be self-booked via GetYourGuide or direct. Costs are approximate estimates per person based on budget traveller rates (assuming two people sharing a rental car and room).

Travel Crew

~£1,025

Same iconic landscapes, same Big Five thrills, same soul-stirring Namib sunsets — without the premium tour price tag. This self-launched version of G Adventures' National Geographic Journeys: Discover Kruger & Namibia takes you from Johannesburg to Windhoek across 16 days, swapping upgraded lodge packages for budget-friendly guesthouses and self-booked safari experiences. You'll still do game drives in Kruger, explore the ghostly pans of Deadvlei, walk Mondesa Township, and visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund — just independently booked, at a fraction of the cost. Estimated costs below are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£2,350

This self-launched itinerary covers the same epic Auckland-to-Christchurch route as Stray Travel's Ruru Select tour — Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro, Wellington, Abel Tasman, the West Coast glaciers, Queenstown, Fiordland, and Mount Cook — but booked entirely independently. You'll swap the guided coach for a mix of intercity buses (InterCity/FlixBus NZ), the Interislander ferry, and local shuttles; trade premium lodge packages for quality hostels and budget motels; and book activities directly or via GetYourGuide and Klook. All costs are approximate estimates per person based on 2025/26 budget traveller rates in GBP.

Travel Crew

~£1,875

Trade the guided group van for your own rental car and experience the very best of California's national parks and iconic cities at a fraction of the cost. This self-launched route takes you from the neon lights of Las Vegas through the scorched beauty of Death Valley, into the ancient giant forests of Sequoia, the jaw-dropping depths of Kings Canyon, and the thundering waterfalls of Yosemite — before rolling into San Francisco for a final urban adventure. All the same epic landscapes, self-booked activities, budget-friendly motels and lodge stays, and the freedom to linger wherever you please. Estimated costs are approximate and based on solo-traveller rates; splitting a rental car and rooms with one or two travel companions will reduce costs significantly.

Travel Crew

~£1,215

Pedal through India's magnificent Land of Kings under your own steam — same forts, same palaces, same sunsets over the Taj Mahal, but without the guided-tour price tag. This self-launched version of the classic Rajasthan cycling route takes you from Delhi through Jodhpur, Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh, Pushkar, Jaipur and Sariska, finishing at the Taj Mahal in Agra. You'll hire a local bike independently, jump on overnight sleeper trains, and book activities directly — all at a fraction of the commercial tour cost. Distances are moderate (mostly 25–74 km per day on paved roads) and the route is well-trodden, making it very doable as a solo or small self-launched group adventure.

Travel Crew

~£520

Tasmania is one of Australia's most jaw-dropping destinations — ancient rainforests, glacial lakes, convict heritage, and wildlife you won't find anywhere else on Earth. This self-launched itinerary follows the same route as On The Go Tours' Best of Tasmania trip, looping from Hobart through Queenstown, the Gordon River, the wild northwest coast, Cradle Mountain, the Bay of Fires, Freycinet, Bruny Island, and Port Arthur — all on your own terms. You'll hire a car (essential in Tassie), book your own budget accommodation, and self-book entry tickets directly, saving over £1,000 compared to the guided group tour. Costs are approximate estimates based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,235

This self-launched 12-day route takes you from Auckland to Christchurch across both the North and South Islands — hitting Rotorua's geothermal wonders, Māori cultural experiences, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Wellington, the Marlborough Sounds, Abel Tasman National Park, and the iconic TranzAlpine train. Instead of paying Stray Travel's group tour premium, you'll book transport and accommodation independently, swap guided transfers for intercity buses and ferries, and self-book activities directly or via GetYourGuide and Klook. All cost estimates are approximate and based on budget/backpacker rates in NZD converted to GBP.

Travel Crew

~£1,145

Experience Iceland's dramatic winter landscapes — glaciers, geysers, black sand beaches, ice caves, whale watching and the Northern Lights — entirely on your own terms. This self-launched itinerary mirrors the Troll Expeditions 8-day ring-road circuit but replaces the guided minibus with a hired campervan or budget rental car, swaps group-tour guesthouses for affordable hostels and guesthouses, and books activities directly or via GetYourGuide. Iceland is expensive no matter how you travel, but cutting out the operator premium saves you well over £600 per person. All cost estimates are approximate and based on current budget-traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£1,290