Founded in 2008 in Vancouver, ToursByLocals has grown into a globally recognized private tour operator, hosting more than 5,000 local guides who serve over 400,000 clients each year across 2,000 locations in 170+ countries. The platform’s mission is to connect curious travelers with passionate local guides who can craft unique, personalized travel experiences—whether exploring art and history, tasting regional cuisine, or discovering hidden cultural gems.
How It Works
Travelers browse specialized tours—ranging from city walks to multi-day excursions—by destination and interest. Each guide sets their own rates, availability, and tour format (private, family-friendly, group). Once booked, travelers receive direct contact with guides via the platform to finalize details. This transparency ensures a tailored experience from start to finish.
Guide Vetting & Support
ToursByLocals screens guide applications, accepting only about 1 in 9 after multi-stage interviews. Once onboard, guides gain access to marketing tools, calendar management, and support from regional operations located in Vancouver, Buenos Aires, Kuala Lumpur, and Glasgow.
Benefits for Travelers
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Tailored experiences: Tours are shaped by your interests, pace, and group dynamics.
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Trusted reviews: Authentic peer reviews provide insight into each guide’s style and quality.
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Flexible cancellation: Standard coverage allows free cancellation up to 15 days before departure; optional “Cancel For Any Reason” insurance (15% of tour cost) grants full refunds up to the tour time—and refunded as credit if tour is taken.
Impact & Reach
With over two million travelers served and a presence in destinations from Santorini to Hong Kong and Reykjavik, ToursByLocals emphasizes responsible, mindful travel. The platform supports local economies, enables authentic cultural exchange, and champions sustainable tourism practices |
