Top 10 Solo Small Group & Self-Guided Adventures

Solo travel is booming. More people than ever are deciding to head off and explore by themselves. However, we understand it can be a daunting ventur... Read more
Top 10 Solo Small Group & Self-Guided Adventures

Solo travel is booming. More people than ever are deciding to head off and explore by themselves. However, we understand it can be a daunting venture, so we have compiled a list of our favourite trips for solo travellers to help you find that perfect adventure.

The first question; guided or self-guided? Just like independent travel, we’ve seen a massive increase in popularity for self-guided holidays over recent years but, how to choose? Well, we’ve outlined the differences below.

Solo Small Group Holidays

Going solo but with a group. Our guided trips are extremely popular with independent travellers looking to explore new places with other like-minded people who share a passion for travel and adventure. While groups can be daunting, we keep our numbers small and intimate ensuring a comfortable and personal atmosphere. Many solo travellers end up with new friends for life as a result of our group trips.

Our guided groups range from low-level trekking, cycling or cultural excursions to high mountain expeditions in the Himalayas. You can also opt for solo occupancy, giving you a whole room or tent to yourself.

Solo Self-Guided Holidays

Explore the world at your own pace. Cycle through a vineyard, or walk along the Mediterranean coast at a speed you’re comfortable with, stopping at a café if, or when, you want. We know how precious your time is, so whist you're sitting at the café sipping a true Italian mocha, your bags are being transported to your next night's accommodation. Of course, if anything happens, then we are just a phone call away with 24/7 assistance.

Nearly all our self-guided trips are suitable for solo travellers, with the range starting with a relaxed cultural and coastal walk in Lisbon, going all the way to the Camino Portuguese Way. If you fancy cycling, then we have a Prosecco Tour of Italy and a circumnavigation challenge of Madeira.

Here are just a few of our amazing guided and self-guided holidays that we think are perfect for solo travellers.


Cinque Terre - Italy (Self-Guided) 

Picture perfect villages, fantastic food, crystal clear seas and bustling harbours - the Cinque Terre really does have it all! Part of the Ligurian Coast, the 5 UNESCO Villages of the Cinque Terre are nestled on the north western coast of Italy, sandwiched between the blue waters of the Ligurian Sea and the magnificent Alps and Apennine Mountain ranges.

Of the five villages; Vernazza, Monterosso, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, known as the ‘Five Earths’, you'll be based in the pretty village of Corniglia. This is the middle village and makes the ultimate base for exploring the region. Utilising the trains and the stunning coastal path that links these colourful villages, you will feel like a local in no time. Spend your day on delightful walks, exploring the area and spend your evenings soaking up the wonderful atmosphere, while sitting outside at one of the fantastic restaurants. 

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North & South New Zealand Explorer (Small Group) 

New Zealand is an outdoor lover's paradise with volcanoes, mountains, beautiful coastline, forest, beaches and huge lakes to enjoy. In this 3-week holiday, we have attempted to include all the hiking highlights of this wonderful and welcoming country, and to get ‘off the beaten track’ as much as possible. To the Maori, New Zealand is Aotearoa, 'Land of the Long White Cloud', and the contrasting North and South Islands have become a patchwork of Maori, European, Asian and Pacific Island history. 

To allow you to make the most of every second of your time in New Zealand, we’ve not only kept our group sizes small, we’ve also included two expert driver/guides to accompany each group. This mean we can include walks and activities on every day and it also ensures that you will be incredibly well looked after every step of the way.

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Camino: The Portuguese Way (Self-Guided) 

It is said that there is the Camino you walk and the Camino you live. This 2 week walking holiday allows you to live the Portuguese Way from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. Taking the route less travelled, you will start your journey with time to explore the UNESCO city of Porto before stepping out to discover beautiful peaceful landscapes, vineyards and quaint Portuguese villages. You will follow in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, discover the legend behind the symbolic rooster of Portugal and cross the Spanish border to embrace Galician culture.

Embarking on a Camino is not just an adventure—it's a transformative spiritual journey too, making it the perfect solo expedition. As you traverse the same path toward Santiago de Compostela, you're bound to encounter fellow travellers with whom you share the same destination but often different motivations. Whether you choose to walk alongside others or enjoy your own company, the Camino offers a unique opportunity for solo travellers to experience personal growth and reflection amidst stunning landscapes.

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Walking the Balkans Borderlands (Small Group) 

Breathtaking landscapes, remote trails, towering mountains, meandering rivers, crystal clear lakes, colourful flora, eclectic architecture, fascinating history, a melting pot of cultures, tasty food and one of the warmest welcomes on the planet – welcome to the Balkan Borderlands. This fantastic cross-border walking holiday explores wild regions and follows trails along the Peaks of the Balkans route.

As you weave your way through spectacular mountains and explore some of Europe's wildest scenery, you’re guaranteed a warm Balkan welcome as you experience staying in traditional guest houses and enjoying home cooking too. This holiday is full of unique experiences to share with your friends and family when you're back home. 

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Cycling Italian Prosecco Tour (Self-Guided) 

Just inland from Venice at the northern end of the Adriatic Sea, the Italian region of Veneto, between the Piave and Sile rivers, is the perfect place for a self-guided cycle tour. This charming corner of Italy is famous for wine growing and for its wealth of historical and architectural heritage. Prosecco is one of the most important wines produced here and in 2019 the picturesque ‘Prosecco Hills’, were granted UNESCO World Heritage status in recognition of the importance of this sparkling and popular drink.

Enjoy the good life, ‘la dolce vita’ on this phenomenal trip with leisurely cycling through beautiful landscapes and plenty of time to explore and enjoy each area you visit. You'll be staying at a wonderful 4-star country hotel that ensures you have everything you need to relax after a day exploring on your bike, including a pool, a terrace perfect for relaxing with a good book and a glass of the local produce and a great restaurant to sample the local specialities too. Why not extend your trip with a Venice city break too?

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Everest Base Camp Trek (Small Group) 

Hiking up to Everest Base Camp and having the chance to meet the famously friendly Sherpa people is high on the wish list of many adventure travellers. So why wait for someone to do it with you? Nepal's Khumbu region boasts some of the most extraordinary high mountain scenery on earth and its popularity as a trekking destination is easy to understand. After flying in to Lukla, this exciting trek to Everest Base Camp takes you via the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar and then up to the sacred lakes in the stunning Gokyo Valley before reaching Base Camp.

The friendships you'll make on this adventure are truly special. Bonding over stunning views and shared challenges, you'll connect with fellow trekkers in a way that lasts long after the journey ends.

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Walking on Cape Verde (Self-Guided) 

The archipelago of Cape Verde, or Cabo Verde, is a stunning collection of islands of varying scenery, situated in the wild Atlantic Ocean, 385 miles off the west coast of Africa. On this self-guided walking holiday, you will visit the islands of Sao Vicente and Santo Antao where you will walk on some of the most incredible hiking trails in the mountains and on the coast, discover rural Cape Verdean life and marvel at the spectacular contrasts of the volcanic island landscape.

This adventure is perfect for solo travellers, offering the flexibility to tailor each day to your preferences. With options for shorter or longer walks available daily, you can choose what to go for based on how you feel. Private transfers to and from your walks are also included, ensuring a seamless experience. To top it off, the trip concludes with two nights in the tranquil beach village of Tarrafal, where you can relax, reflect on your amazing walking adventures and enjoy a good book in peace.

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Walking Wild Tuscany (Small Group) 

With its breathtaking mountain ranges, charming villages, medieval towns, vineyards and olive groves, the wild and dramatic Garfagnana region is one of Italy's best-kept secrets, making it the perfect destination for an Italian walking holiday. Fondly known as 'Wild Tuscany,' this jaw-dropping landscape boasts the striking peaks of the Alpi Apuane and Apennine mountain ranges, offering fantastic daily walks for you to enjoy.

This stunning area is also renowned for its mouth-watering food, which you'll enjoy alongside picnic lunches bursting with fresh and colourful local produce. Your home for the week is a beautifully renovated organic farm, complete with a swimming pool and acres of vibrant meadows, vineyards, a vegetable garden and woodlands to explore. This idyllic retreat provides the ultimate relaxation after a day of walking.

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Cycling The Rhine - Germany (Self-Guided) 

Originating high in the Swiss Alps, the mighty Rhine River winds its way through Liechtenstein, Austria, France, Germany and the Netherlands before culminating in the North Sea. On this one week self-guided cycling holiday in Germany, you will ride around 295km of the 1230km-long EuroVelo 15 Rhine Cycle Route, from Strasbourg in France, to Mainz in Germany.

Along the way you will discover nature reserves as well as picturesque towns and cities with their cathedrals, Baroque castles, fortresses and historic monuments, offering a glimpse into the influences on this region over the course of history. Not only that, your journey will take you through the regions of Alsace, Baden and the Palatinate, all known for their wonderful wines which you will of course have plenty of opportunity to enjoy. You will stay in perfectly located, comfortable hotels and your luggage will be transferred for you from hotel to hotel; we have also included your bike hire so you can really enjoy every moment knowing that all logistics have been arranged for you. 

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Inca Trail Trek - Peru (Small Group) 

This trek has become a KE classic, frequently rated by our staff as one of their 'best ever' treks! With over 30 years of experience operating Inca Trail treks and tours around Cusco, we excel at making the most of your precious time. You'll trek the most beautiful trails and visit the main sights at optimal times, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Upon arrival, you'll be in expert hands; our Peruvian guides are the best in the business, dedicated to making you feel welcome and well cared for. Plus, camp standards on a KE Inca Trail trek are among the best in the world, guaranteeing a comfortable and enjoyable adventure.

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If you would like to know more about any of these KE holidays, speak to our friendly sales team on +44 (0) 17687 73966 or USA/Canada toll-free 1888 630 4415 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.We offer trusted holidays with financial protection and flexible booking conditions

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