The upscale guided tour company Adventures by Disney (ABD) offers trips geared to families on six continents. Like all things Disney, ABD has a passion for storytelling, but the company’s focus is on the real stories—past and present—of destinations, with only a little bit of that magic pixie dust flavor thrown in.
Its focus on seamless experiences, special accommodations, and exceptional tour guides (called Adventure Guides) make it a good investment. The broad scope of activities and offerings make it a solid fit for travelers of all ages, and for everyone from adults traveling together to multigenerational family groups.
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TourScoop takeaways
- Countries: Adventures by Disney travels to 30 countries and six continents.
- Tour size average: The standard group size for land adventures is between 30 and 40 guests, with two Adventure Guides.
- Tour types: Adventures by Disney offers Land Adventures, River Cruises, Adult Exclusives, and Escapes.
Credibility check
Adventures by Disney comes with the built-in assurance of being a Disney brand. The tour company has earned awards from Travel Weekly, Cruise Critic, and the World Travel Awards.
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Tour destinations
Adventures by Disney offers more than 40 trips to 30 countries on six continents. Some of its most popular tour itineraries are Italy: Rome, Tuscany & Venice, Costa Rica, England and France, and Arizona and Utah.
Tour types
Adventures by Disney tours include land-based excursions and river cruises. (Disney Cruise Line, with its nine ocean-going ships, is a separate company within the Disney universe.) The tour company excels at hosting people of all different ages on the same trip.
Land Adventures are offered around the world. Some itineraries and departures are exclusively for adults with activities adjusted slightly for an all-adult audience. There are also Escapes, which are shorter guided tours to destinations including London, Rome, and Paris.
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River cruise sailings include an Oktoberfest cruise on the Danube River, a Christmas Markets voyage on the Rhine River, and a tulip season sailing through Holland and Belgium.
Tour guides
Disney has a rigorous selection process and training program for its guides, and that care shows in the high caliber of its guides. What sets Disney Adventure Guides apart is their storytelling: These guides aren’t simply sharing information with guests, they’re bringing the stories of history and place to life. That’s particularly important since tours often cater to groups that include both kids and adults—storytelling becomes a unifying force that keeps all ages engaged.
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On Land Adventures, each tour group is led by a team of two Adventure Guides. Typically, one is U.S.-based and the other is native to the region. The local Adventure Guide connects guests with their country and shares authentic storytelling and experiences. Along the way, guests also meet additional local specialists who share their connection to the destination and host unique experiences.
Inclusions/extras
All accommodations (with the exception of pre- and post-trip nights) are included, as are transfers at the beginning and end of each trip. Adventures by Disney tours include family-friendly resort accommodations, often with connecting rooms and other perks that make traveling with children easier. Most meals are included as well.
Each trip includes a few on-your-own meals, so families can try out spots not built into the itinerary. (Adventure Guides give lots of advice and recommendations so guests aren’t on their own in unfamiliar destinations.) Flights are not included in the tour price, but Disney does offer flight booking.
Typical travelers
Adventures by Disney caters to all ages, but since it’s one of the few tour companies that specifically caters to families with children, it’s a popular pick for families with school-age kids. It’s also a good fit for multiple generations of family traveling together, since the company crafts its tours to simultaneously appeal to both kids and adults.
On every itinerary, there are adult-focused activities while Junior Adventurers take part in special activities designed for them (themed movie nights, games, and other fun activities). Adult activities include special meals and wine or cocktail tastings.
There are also adults traveling without children on trips, and for all-adult experiences, the company offers Adult Exclusive itineraries for people who prefer to travel alongside other adult family members, friends, or as a solo traveler on an adults trip.
Communication
Adventures by Disney sends pre-trip email communications and also has a team of “Vacationistas” who are available to answer questions and offer advice over the phone. In advance of a trip, travelers will receive a pre-trip package with goodies curated specifically for their trip.
Loyalty program
Adventure Insiders is Adventures by Disney’s loyalty program. Benefits include early booking access to trips and insider news and tips.
Private options
Adventures by Disney no longer offers private tours.
Sustainability efforts
As part of the Disney Corporation, Adventures by Disney engages with sustainability efforts that includes a 2030 goal of major reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and investment in natural climate solutions. Other efforts include the Disney Conservation Fund, which has helped to protect thousands of animal species and conserve more than 315 million acres of habitat over the last 25 years.
Health and safety practices
Adventures by Disney regularly updates its health and safety practices. The company recommends that guests review the protocols prior to departure for the most current information.
