Discover more on a small group tour.
Want to explore beyond the famous sights? Discover the stories behind each destination, connect more deeply with the places you visit and enjoy experiences that leave a lasting impression.
At AAT Kings, our Small Group journeys are designed for travellers who enjoy the confidence and convenience of guided travel while preferring a more intimate experience. With an average of just 16 guests, these carefully curated journeys create opportunities that can’t be accessed in larger groups. From spending more time with passionate local storytellers to visiting boutique wineries, family-run businesses and remarkable landscapes where every moment feels a little more personal.
Whether you’re discovering the ancient landscapes of Mungo National Park, exploring the historic streets of Broken Hill, or cruising through Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) in Aotearoa New Zealand, travelling in a smaller group allows you to slow down, connect and experience each destination in a meaningful way.
If you’re wondering whether a small group tour is right for you, here are six reasons why fewer travellers often lead to bigger experiences.
What Is a Small Group Tour?
A small group tour offers all the benefits of guided travel, expert planning, seamless logistics and knowledgeable Travel Directors, but with a smaller number of guests than a traditional coach tour.
At AAT Kings, Small Group journeys average 16 guests, creating a relaxed atmosphere where it’s easier to get to know your fellow travellers, spend more time with local hosts and enjoy experiences that aren’t accessible with larger groups.
Rather than feeling like you’re moving with a crowd, you’ll experience destinations at a pace that encourages curiosity and conversation. There’s time to ask questions, linger a little longer at places that capture your imagination and enjoy the unexpected moments that often become the highlight of a holiday.
Importantly, a smaller group doesn’t mean missing out on comfort or convenience. Your accommodation, transport and experiences are still thoughtfully organised, allowing you to focus on what matters most, immersing yourself in the journey.
Small Group vs Classic Guided Holiday at a Glance
| Small Group Journey | Classic Guided Holiday | |
| Group size | Average 16 guests | Larger coach groups |
| Pace | Relaxed, connect deeply with each destination | Itinerary-led |
| Access | Boutique wineries, in-depth experiences, remote landscapes | Perfect balance between discovering iconic highlights, major sights and lesser known destinations |
| Social atmosphere | Intimate; easy to know everyone | Lively; wider mix of travellers |
| Accommodation | Thoughtfully selected, unique stays | Well-located hotels |
1. Deeper Connections with Local People
One of the greatest advantages of travelling in a smaller group is the opportunity to spend time with the people who know each destination best and connect authentically with them.
You’ll have more opportunities to engage with local guides, producers and community members who share their knowledge, traditions and way of life.
On the new Outback New South Wales Adventurer, for example, guests explore the extraordinary landscapes of Mungo National Park with a local Aboriginal guide, gaining insight into more than 40,000 years of continuous culture while walking through the iconic Mungo lunette (Walls of China). Along the way, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for questions, conversation and reflection, enriching every experience.
Across AAT Kings’ New Zealand Small Group tours, local experiences such as the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® visit to Real Country provide meaningful opportunities to connect with the people behind regional communities and the traditions that shape them.
These aren’t simply sightseeing stops. They’re opportunities to connect with people whose stories bring each destination to life.
2. Gain Insights from Your Expert Travel Director
Our Travel Directors don’t just guide you from one destination to the next. They share local knowledge, provide context, introduce you to the people and places that make each region unique and often become one of the most memorable parts of the journey.
Travelling in a small group creates more opportunities for conversation. Your Travel Director will share local insights, answer questions and bring each destination to life through stories and expert knowledge.
Perhaps you’d like to learn more about Broken Hill’s mining heritage, discover why White Cliffs became Australia’s oldest commercial opal field or explore the significance of the World Heritage-listed Willandra Lakes Region. Along the way, there’s time to delve deeper into the places you visit and gain a rich understanding of their history, culture and landscapes.
Whether you’re sharing stories over dinner, during the scenic drive or while watching the sunset together, these meaningful moments add another layer to the journey and create lasting memories.
3. Access to Experiences Larger Groups Can’t Reach
Discover boutique wineries, family-run businesses, remote landscapes and immersive cultural experiences that only small groups can experience.
In New South Wales, that could mean enjoying a relaxed wine tasting and lunch overlooking the vineyards at Lowe Family Wine Co. in Mudgee before chatting with the people behind one of the region’s leading organic wineries.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, it might be spending time at Real Country, where sheepdog demonstrations and rural traditions are brought to life through a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that supports the Fairlight Foundation and women in agriculture.
Rather than simply visiting a destination, these experiences encourage you to connect with the people who live there and understand the stories behind the landscapes. It’s these hidden gem experiences that gives Small Group tours their distinctive character.
4. Discover Unique Places to Stay
Where you stay can be just as memorable as the destinations you visit. Travelling in a smaller group opens the door to accommodation that connects you with the destination, whether that’s sleeping in the heart of an iconic landscape or waking up surrounded by nature.
On the South Island Splendour tour, experience one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable stays with an overnight cruise on Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) aboard the Milford Mariner. Throughout your cruise, an expert onboard naturalist shares fascinating insights into the region’s unique wildlife, geology and history, enriching your experience of Fiordland National Park. See towering peaks, ancient rainforest and cascading waterfalls. Wake to calm waters and the sounds of nature, with the possibility of spotting dolphins, seals and native birdlife in one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
On the Outback New South Wales Adventurer, enjoy an overnight stay at Mungo Lodge, perfectly positioned on the edge of Mungo National Park in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Willandra Lakes Region. Staying so close to the park allows more time to explore this extraordinary outback landscape. As the sun sets across the desert, experience the tranquillity, vast open skies and timeless beauty that make Mungo National Park one of Australia’s most significant cultural and natural destinations.
5. Connect with Like-Minded Travellers
One of the unexpected joys of guided travel is the people you meet along the way.
With fewer guests, connect more deeply with like-minded travellers. Whether you’re sharing breakfast before setting off for the day, swapping stories over dinner or admiring a spectacular sunset together, it’s easy to get to know the people travelling beside you. Many AAT Kings guests tell us that these shared experiences become some of the most memorable parts of their holiday.
Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends or as a couple, a small group tour brings together people with a shared passion for discovering new places. From meals together to unforgettable sightseeing experiences, there’s plenty of time to enjoy conversations, share the journey with others and make new friends.
6. Spend More Time Exploring
When you’re travelling, every moment is an opportunity to discover something new.
A small group tour creates opportunities to pause, explore and spend time appreciating the places you visit. Wander the heritage streets of Broken Hill, browse regional galleries, enjoy a tasting in Mudgee or take in the extraordinary landscapes of Mungo National Park, there’s time to immerse yourself in each experience and discover more of what makes every destination unique.
Take the time to experience each destination more deeply, uncovering the stories, landscapes and local character that bring every stop to life.
Discover AAT Kings’ New Small Group Tours
Whether you’re drawn to the Australian Outback or New Zealand’s spectacular alpine landscapes, AAT Kings’ newest Small Group journeys are designed to help you experience each destination in a more personal and meaningful way.
Outback New South Wales Adventurer
Journey through the heart of outback New South Wales, where you’ll explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park, uncover Broken Hill’s rich mining heritage, visit the unique opal town of White Cliffs and enjoy local flavours in Mudgee. Along the way, you’ll connect with local guides and experience the region’s remarkable landscapes at a relaxed pace.
➔ Explore the Outback New South Wales Adventurer tour
South Island Splendour
Experience the best of New Zealand’s South Island, from alpine peaks and turquoise lakes to unforgettable wildlife and cultural encounters. Highlights include an overnight cruise aboard the Milford Mariner in Piopiotahi (Milford Sound), a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Real Country and time to explore charming destinations such as Wānaka and Queenstown.
➔ Discover the South Island Splendour Tour
South Island Highlights
Discover New Zealand’s iconic South Island on a carefully curated journey that combines spectacular scenery with authentic local experiences. Visit renowned destinations including Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, Christchurch and Queenstown, enjoy immersive cultural experiences and travel through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes in the company of a small group.
➔ View the South Island Highlights Tour
Is a Small Group Tour Right for You?
If you’re looking for the convenience of a guided holiday without feeling like you’re travelling as part of a large tour, a Small Group tour could be the perfect fit.
Ideal for travellers who:
- Want to connect deeply and authentically with the local people.
- Prefer a relaxed pace without sacrificing the highlights.
- Appreciate thoughtfully curated experiences.
- Value expert guidance Exploring destinations deeply.
- Like meeting like-minded travellers.
- Want to discover regional Australia and New Zealand beyond the well-known icons.
Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with friends, Small Group journeys offer a balance of independence, comfort and connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people are on an AAT Kings Small Group tour?
AAT Kings Small Group journeys average 16 guests, creating a more personal and relaxed travel experience.
Are Small Group tours suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. Many solo travellers enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of Small Group journeys, where it’s easy to meet fellow guests while still having time to explore independently.
What’s the difference between a Small Group tour and a classic guided holiday?
Small Group tours focus on fewer guests, allowing for more personalised experiences, easier access to boutique locations and more interaction with Travel Directors and local hosts.
Do Small Group tours include free time?
Yes. Many itineraries include free time to explore independently alongside guided sightseeing and included experiences.
Are Small Group tours available in both Australia and New Zealand?
Yes. AAT Kings offers Small Group journeys across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, featuring regional destinations, cultural experiences and spectacular natural landscapes.