Contiki has announced an expansion of its travel offering, introducing 76 new trips, eight Travel Worlds and new destinations Fiji and the Maldives as part of a multi-year transformation. The youth travel company is also revising its pricing model, with lower everyday prices across its portfolio.
Source: Contiki Go Wander
The changes form part of Go Wander, which Contiki describes as the biggest transformation in its more than 64-year history. The initiative is intended to give young travellers more options based on their interests, preferred experiences and budgets.
The company says the changes reflect demand for more varied travel experiences among younger consumers. Research cited by Contiki found that South Africans aged 18–34 took an average of 5.6 international trips over the past five years. It also found that 75% of young people in South Africa would consider an organised group trip for part of their next international journey, while almost six in 10 preferred a group of 15 people or fewer.
Toni Ambler, chief customer officer at Contiki, said: “Go Wander is a reinvention of Contiki, inspired by the pioneering spirit that’s been part of our story from the start and reimagined for a new generation of young travellers.”
“With 76 new trips, eight new travel worlds built around personal interests, and more ways to travel, we’re giving our travel agent partners more opportunities to match their clients with the right adventure - and young people more freedom to explore on their own terms.” Ambler continued.
“That spirit of discovery comes to life in our new digital experience, making it easier for agents and their clients to explore what’s on offer, find inspiration and turn personal interests into unforgettable travel experiences.”
Eight Travel Worlds shape the expanded portfolio
The new portfolio structure will span eight Travel Worlds, giving customers different ways to identify trips suited to their interests and travel styles. The offering includes:
• Contiki Local: Small-group tours focused on immersive experiences and exploring destinations beyond their main attractions.
• Contiki Originals: The company's established itineraries, including its original European tours.
• Contiki Highlights: Trips built around selected major attractions and experiences.
• Contiki Lite: Lower-priced itineraries designed to make group travel more affordable.
• Contiki Outdoors: Active trips focused on outdoor activities and adventure.
• Contiki Islands: Island holidays in destinations including Greece, Indonesia and the Maldives.
• Contiki Festivals: Trips offering access to international music and cultural festivals.
• Contiki Luxe: A collection of higher-end travel experiences.
The expanded offering includes Fiji and the Maldives as new destinations. Contiki is also adding itineraries in India and Japan.
The company points to a nearly 29% increase in passenger travel to Asia between 2023 and 2026 as part of the context for its expanded Asian itineraries.
Revised pricing and support for travel agents
Contiki has introduced lower everyday pricing across its portfolio in response to cost-of-living pressures. The revised model removes the need for customers to wait for flash sales or limited-time promotions to access lower prices.
Kelly Jackson, MD and SVP Sales EMEA at Contiki, said: “For our SA travel agent partners, this is about opening up a whole new world of selling opportunities. Young travellers aren't all looking for the same holiday, and with eight distinct Travel Worlds, 76 new trips and a refreshed pricing approach, agents now have so many more ways to introduce Contiki to their customers.
“What really excites me is the opportunity to change the conversation. Contiki has always been known for bringing young people together through travel, but there's now so much more to discover, whether that's immersive local experiences, outdoor adventures, island escapes or something a little more luxurious.
“Our agents are incredibly important to us, and we want to give them the products, confidence and tools to turn that inspiration into bookings. This isn't simply about launching more trips; it's about creating more reasons for young people to travel and more opportunities for our partners to grow their business with us.”
As part of the launch, Contiki has also introduced On Contiki, a vertical micro-drama series set in Costa Rica. It follows four young travellers as they navigate new adventures and friendships. The series is available on TikTok and YouTube, and travel agents are encouraged to share it with prospective young customers.
