6 Hidden Gems for Group Travel: Explore the World With Friends
Group travel is a fantastic way to create unforgettable memories, share costs, and explore the world with your closest friends. Whether you're backpacking, interrailing, or planning an adventurous getaway, travelling in a group offers unique experiences without breaking the bank. To spark your curiosity, we’ve rounded up destinations perfect for group adventures, including some hidden gems you may not have thought of travelling to before, that might just help turn your holiday plans from group chat dreams into a reality.
1. Albania – The Budget-Friendly Mediterranean Gem
Albania offers stunning beaches, dramatic mountains, and charming towns at a fraction of the cost of its Mediterranean neighbours. This hidden gem is perfect for travellers looking to experience the beauty of the Adriatic without the crowds or high prices of destinations like Greece, Italy or Croatia.
Highlights: Relax on the white-sand beaches of Ksamil, often referred to as the "Ionian Pearl,". Explore the natural beauty of the Blue Eye Spring, a natural phenomenon or wander through the cobblestone streets of UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër.
Why it’s great for groups: Affordable accommodation options, inexpensive transport, and scenic road trips make it ideal for sharing costs and adventures with friends.
2. Georgia – Adventure in the Caucasus
Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia is a paradise with breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Combining ancient history with modern vibrancy, offering something for every traveller.
Highlights: Wander the streets of Tbilisi and experience its architecture as well as bustling cafes and great nightlife. Head to Kazbegi for dramatic mountain views and hiking opportunities or visit Kakheti, Georgia’s wine region, where you can enjoy tastings and spectacular sunsets.
Why it’s great for groups: Guesthouses are an affordable option and with a range of activities available, Georgia ensures a memorable and budget-friendly group trip.
3. Peru – Beyond Machu Picchu
While Machu Picchu steals the spotlight, Peru offers so much more. Located in South America, Peru is an adventurer’s dream, boasting stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. From the towering Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest, the country offers a thrilling blend of ancient history and natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for every traveller.
Highlights: Journey to the colourful Rainbow Mountain, a breathtaking natural wonder. Thrill-seekers will love the desert oasis of Huacachina, where sandboarding and dune buggy rides are group favourites. In Arequipa, nicknamed the "White City" for its stunning sillar stone buildings, explore the nearby Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world
Why it’s great for groups: With its combination of natural beauty, rich history, and affordable options, Peru promises an unforgettable experience for group travellers, with something for everyone to enjoy.
4. Vietnam – South East Asia’s Backpacker Heaven
Vietnam is a favourite among backpackers, offering diverse landscapes, deep history, and unbeatable affordability. From the lively cities of the north, like Hanoi, to the laid-back charm of the south, the country offers a unique blend of urban energy and tranquil escapes.
Highlights: Sail through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay on a group cruise, marvelling at the towering limestone karsts. In Hội An, stroll through lantern-lit streets, whilst shopping for tailored clothing, or enjoy cooking classes that teach you to recreate Vietnamese delicacies.
Why it’s great for groups: Vietnam’s affordability is unmatched, with inexpensive street food, budget-friendly accommodations, and group discounts on tours and transport. It’s a destination where groups can experience luxury without the price tag.
5. Guatemala – The Heart of Central America's Adventures
For groups seeking adventure and culture, Guatemala delivers with its captivating landscapes and Mayan heritage. This hidden gem is perfect for groups looking to explore ancient ruins, hike volcanoes, and immerse themselves in vibrant culture without the high prices of neighbouring countries.
Highlights: Explore the ancient ruins of Tikal, where towering temples rise above the jungle canopy, offering a glimpse into the past. Take a boat ride across the shimmering waters of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by volcanic peaks and charming villages perfect for group exploration. Thrill-seekers can climb active volcanoes like Pacaya or Acatenango, where the views are worth every step.
Why it’s great for groups: Budget-friendly hostels and inexpensive street food make Guatemala an attractive option for group travel.
6. Morocco – Exotic and Accessible
Morocco’s culture and affordability make it a fantastic group destination. From the souks of Marrakech to the sands of the Sahara, Morocco offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure at a fraction of the cost of other destinations.
Highlights: Shop in Marrakech’s bustling souks which provide endless excitement, or embark on a shared camel trek into the Sahara Desert, camping under the stars in traditional Berber tents. For surfers and beach lovers, Essaouira is a laid-back coastal town with plenty of charm. Don’t forget Moroccan cuisine, which is best enjoyed in groups, with tagines, meats, couscous, and mint tea perfect for sharing.
Why it’s great for groups: With its affordable accommodations, group-friendly activities, and warm hospitality, Morocco is an unmissable destination for group travellers.
Tips for Group Travel Success
Share Costs: Use apps like Splitwise and Monzo to easily manage group expenses, ensuring everyone’s contributions are clear and fair throughout the trip.
Stay Flexible: Plan together, making sure everyone’s voice is heard, but also leave space for spontaneity and unexpected adventures that often make the trip memorable.
Get Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is a must for group trips, providing peace of mind against unforeseen disruptions, medical emergencies, or lost belongings, so everyone can relax and enjoy the experience.
Record Your Adventures: Create shared photo albums to document your journey together, capturing memories you can all look back on and relive with fondness long after the trip ends.
Group travel is about creating shared memories with your closest friends and enjoying the world without straining your wallet. These destinations offer incredible experiences at budget-friendly prices, ensuring everyone in your group gets the most out of the adventure. Don’t forget to prioritise travel insurance for peace of mind, so you can focus on the journey and not the what-ifs. Get a quote with Alpha Travel Insurance here.
