Costa Rica Natural Paradise

Dear Traveler, Welcome to a great vacation at an affordable price. Your Costa Rica tour is fully guided and includes all meals, all hotels, and all activities. Happy Travels! Caravan
Keel-billed Toucan
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Tour Year:

20242025

Best Costa Rica Tour Operators

Caravan Tours is one of North America’s leading Costa Rica tour operators specializing in all-inclusive guided Costa Rica tours.

Come vacation in the “Jewel of Central America,” a natural paradise complete with virgin rainforests, rare tropical birds and wildlife, plus Leatherback turtle nesting beaches. Costa Rica has earned its long-standing reputation as the “tranquil land of democracy and rare natural beauty“.

Let Caravan Tour Operators Accompany You
On A Fully Guided Costa Rica Tour
Call Toll Free at 1-800-CARAVAN (227-2826)

What Travelers Are Saying about Caravan Tour Operators

Costa Rica rightfully enjoys an international reputation for unsullied nature and sustainable ecotourism travel.

In reviews about Costa Rica tour companies, Caravan Tours continually leads the way. Caravan tour operators are some of the best in Costa Rica with a solid reputation for making your travels to Costa Rica thoroughly enjoyable, worry free, and unforgettable.

“Our (Costa Rica) tour director always prepared us for the next activity. I really enjoyed this trip and have recommended it to others.”
Ms. B.T., Pasadena, California

“The (tour) guides were very eco-minded. We received a good education from them and their passion for preserving their environment was contagious. We totally get it. Your Costa Rican tour was awesome.”
Mr. & Mrs. B.H., Burton, Michigan

“Our (Costa Rica) tour director made this trip very comfortable and fun.”
Mr. & Mrs. B.R., Oberlin, Ohio

“Your (Costa Rica) tour director was WONDERFUL! Never let go of her, she was knowledgeable about everything any of us wanted to know. She was so personable and always happy too.”
Mrs. P.H., Gainesville, Florida

“Our (Costa Rica) tour director was always accessible and approachable to the group.”
Mrs. E.M., Phoenix, Arizona

“We had the perfect tour director, very knowledgeable of Costa Rican history, local cultures, and coconuts.”
Mr. & Mrs. M.G., Pleasant Hill, California

Costa Rica - Latin America’s Best Tourist Destination

Travel Weekly, a travel magazine that has been in circulation for over four decades, has awarded Costa Rica the prize as best Latin American tourist destination, as voted on by a readership of over 140,000.

As a Costa Rica tour operator for family, senior or group travel tours, Caravan Tours has seen firsthand why Costa Rica deserves such an enviable worldwide reputation.

Although Costa Rica is a small country, it is internationally recognized for the hospitality of its people and for the preservation of its natural heritage. Costa Rica boasts 6% of the world’s total biodiversity and 23% of the total land area in Costa Rica is now protected in natural wildlife refuges, biological preserves and Costa Rica National Parks, including Arenal Volcano and Costa Rica Cloud Forests.

Here are some more Costa Rica Facts.

Costa Rica Tour Operator for Senior Travel Tours

Caravan Tours welcomes seniors to come travel fully escorted with our Costa Rica tour guide and enjoy an all-inclusive Costa Rica adventure travel tour. Our friendly and courteous Costa Rica tour operators will guide you through a well-paced, unhurried Costa Rica tour itinerary that includes frequent rest and photo stops. In addition, you will travel in a modern, restroom-equipped, Mercedes motor coach that is air-conditioned.

Motor coach seating capacity is 48, however as Costa Rica tour operators, Caravan restricts the traveling group to no more than 44 passengers to ensure your complete comfort.

Come enjoy a leisurely, fully escorted Costa Rica vacation. Tour days begin and end at reasonable hours and the highest elevation on our Costa Rica tour is Poas Volcano at 8800 feet. All other Costa Rica tour elevations range from sea level to no more than 5000 feet in elevation.

Costa Rica Tour Operator for Family Adventure Tours

Families are also welcome on our fully escorted Costa Rica adventure travel tours. We offer child-friendly tour itineraries however children should be at least 5 years old.

Bring your family to Costa Rica and experience an eco friendly adventure tour that includes rainforest hikes with naturalist guides, chance encounters with exciting tropical wildlife plus, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover, learn and share while experiencing quality family time in a tropical paradise.

Please speak with your Costa Rica tour operator if you have specific requests for connecting adjacent triple or quadruple rooms (subject to availability).

Costa Rica Tour Operator for Group Eco Travel Tours

Caravan’s Costa Rica travel tours are superb ecotourism group vacations. Come discover Costa Rica with our highly experienced tour guides and enjoy a fully escorted, eco adventure tour with Costa Rica local tour operators and naturalist guides.

Costa Rica tour highlights include a rainforest aerial tram ride, rainforest hikes, volcanic hot springs, Pacific turtle nesting beaches, a Poas Cloud Forest hike, Costa Rica birding tours, and exploration of Manuel Antonio National Park.

We Are Budget Tour Operators - Saving Your Up to 30%!

As a long time Costa Rica tour operator, Caravan has established a presence in Costa Rica, providing an unrivaled standard of excellence at an incredible price; virtually everything is included for one low, budget-conscious tour price.

Fully escorted budget travel tours to Costa Rica are affordably priced for family, group or senior travel at approximately 30% less than most of our lower cost competitors. You simply won’t find another Costa Rica tour operator offering a budget Costa Rica tour in our class anywhere near this value.

Caravan’s professional Costa Rica tour operators are fluent in English and conduct this budget Costa Rica land tour from start to finish. You’ll visit five of the seven Costa Rica provinces including San Jose province, Alajuela, Heredia, Limon and Puntarenas province.

Caravan’s Costa Rica tours include all itinerary resorts and accommodations, plus all meals & bottled water, all itinerary activities, airport transfers, and gratuities to hotel porters, restaurant staff and local guides.

Budget savvy travelers can enjoy a worry free, all-inclusive vacation on Caravan’s fully guided, ecotourism Costa Rica travel tour.

Come Travel with Costa Rica’s Best Tour Operators

Caravan’s Costa Rica tours from San Jose are accompanied highly experienced tour operators and our tours always book up fast. We recommended making your reservation as soon as possible to guarantee the best travel dates.

Sloth Park
Hot Springs
Butterfly Garden

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2024 Hotels

Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.


Barcelo San José

Days 1, 2 • San José

Barcelo San José

Barcelo San José

The Barcelo San Jose Hotel is located 1 mile from downtown San José, amidst beautifully landscaped gardens in a quiet residential area. This five star hotel features two indoor restaurants, two bars, a casino, a large swimming pool and pool bar and restaurant, spa with Jacuzzi, steam bath, sauna, tennis and squash courts, massage therapists, hairdresser, and gift shops. Your hotel is fully air-conditioned. Free internet access.


Magic Mountain

Day 3 • Fortuna

Magic Mountain

Magic Mountain

Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa is located on the northern end of Fortuna. All rooms have either a balcony or a terrace with a view of Arenal Volcano. Magic Mountain has a restaurant, sports bar, swimming pool with pool bar and two jacuzzis. The deluxe spa specializes in a variety of treatments including volcanic mud wraps, massages, facials, pedicures and manicures. Free internet access.


Barcelo Tambor Beach Resort

Days 4, 5, 6 • Nicoya Peninsula

Barcelo Tambor Beach Resort

Barcelo Tambor Beach Resort

The Barcelo Beach Resort is located on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast in the secluded Nicoya Peninsula. It is situated alongside picturesque Playa Tambor, a gently sloping beach nearly four miles long overlooking breathtaking Ballena (Whale) Bay. The beach is perfect for leisurely, romantic strolls. The resort grounds are set amidst lush tropical gardens with a variety of walking paths. Iguanas freely wander the grounds and troops of spider and howler monkeys swing from the trees. Here, at Barcelo Tambor, you’ll sleep to the magical sounds of the jungle. A golf course is adjacent to the property. On-site amenities at the resort include outdoor pools, tennis courts, beach volleyball, mini golf, and a fitness center. A full-service deluxe spa and hair salon are available for a fee. The fully equipped guest rooms are air conditioned and all feature either a terrace or a balcony. Free WiFi.


Quality Hotel Real San Jose

Day 7 • San José

Quality Hotel Real San Jose

Quality Hotel Real San Jose

The Quality Hotel Real San Jose is conveniently located in the entertainment center of the Santa Ana District in San Jose and just a few steps away from a variety of restaurants, bars and shopping centers. Valle del Sol Golf Course, one of the finest golf courses in Costa Rica, is only three minutes away. A well-equipped exercise room will inspire your workout, offering a view of the swimming pool and garden. All guest rooms have been thoughtfully decorated and feature a variety of amenities, including free high-streaming-speed Internet.

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Airport Transfers

arrival Transfers

Transfer on your own from the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) to your hotel, the Barcelo San Jose (Residencial, Diagonal 23A, Robledal La Uruca) in San Jose. Once you have exited customs and collected your baggage at the airport, proceed to the official taxi service known as “Taxis Unidos Aeropuerto,” The taxi kiosk is located on your left at the exit door of the airport. Here you can request your taxi. The driving time from the airport to the hotel is approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost will range from $30-$40 US Dollars plus tip. Payment can be made by US Dollars, Costa Rica Colones or via credit card. Currency exchange and ATMs are available in the airport. When you arrive at your hotel, please identify yourself as a Caravan tour member to the front desk personnel.

departure Transfers

This tour includes departure transfers from your hotel in San José to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica on the day the tour ends, scheduled to arrive at the airport at 5:00 a.m, 7:00 a.m, 9:00 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. These transfers are only available on the day the tour ends. If you wish to extend your stay in Costa Rica, you will need to transfer on your own, at your own expense. Please ask the hotel bellman to arrange a taxi. Expect to pay $25.00 U.S. Dollars per taxi, plus tip. The driving time from the hotel to the airport is approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.

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Passports & Visas

To enter Costa Rica, you will need a U.S. passport valid for 6 additional months after the date of your arrival into Costa Rica. A 3 month tourist visa is automatically issued to U.S. citizens after clearing Costa Rica customs. Non U.S. citizens, please check passport and visa requirements. Note: It is recommended that children under 18 years old traveling internationally without both parents or legal guardians, carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws. See Travel Tips for more details.

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Weather & Clothing

Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)

San JoséNicoya Peninsula
TempRainTempRain
Jan78/641.192/790.1
Feb79/640.893/800.1
Mar80/640.794/800.1
Apr81/651.993/800.9
May79/654.890/794.1
Jun78/645.689/794.8
Jul78/654.790/793.4
Aug78/645.290/784.6
Sep77/636.289/776.8
Oct77/636.588/776.6
Nov77/644.489/782.9
Dec77/642.290/790.7

Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
San José
temp78/6479/6480/6481/6579/6578/6478/6578/6477/6377/6377/6477/64
rainfall1.10.80.71.94.85.64.75.26.26.54.42.2
Nicoya Peninsula
temp92/7993/8094/8093/8090/7989/7990/7990/7889/7788/7789/7890/79
rainfall0.10.10.10.94.14.83.44.66.86.62.90.7

Clothing Tips

This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are never required on Caravan's Costa Rica tour. It is recommended to wear drip-dry clothing in the rainforest. Shirts with long sleeves and long pants are recommended for rain forest and cloud forest hikes. See Travel Tips for more details.

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Travel Tips & FAQs

These are only the first 25 Travel Tips. Read all 78 Travel Tips

Language Spoken in Costa Rica

Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica. English is taught as a second language in Costa Rican schools. Your Caravan Tour Director, local guides and most hotel receptionists are bi-lingual, speaking both English and Spanish.

Time Zone

Costa Rica observes Central Standard Time all year round. Because Costa Rica does not observe Daylight Savings Time, in the winter it shares the same time as cities in the Central Time Zone such as Chicago, Houston and Winnipeg. In the summer, Costa Rica time is one hour earlier than Central Time Zone areas which observe Daylight Savings Time.

Costa Rica Immigration

After exiting your plane, you will first arrive at the immigration desk, and present your passport and a Costa Rica immigration form. (This form is provided to you by your airplane. On the form, you will write your name, passport number, nationality, occupation, and the motive for your visit - tourism or business.) After you are approved in the immigration computer, you take the escalator or elevator downstairs to the baggage claim area.

San Jose, Costa Rica Baggage Claim

When you arrive at the baggage claim area, you will find free luggage carts and clean restrooms. You can pick up a free map here at the Tourist Information booth.

Airport Porter Tips

If an airport porter assists you with your suitcases, please tip the airport porter $2 per person or more in the United States, and $1 per person or more in Costa Rica, depending on the amount of your luggage.

Caravan Does Not Arrange Airline Transportation

Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan Tours. Reserve your flight to San Jose, Costa Rica (airport code SJO), and not San Jose, California (airport code SJC). Try to schedule flights with as few connections as possible. If you have connecting flights, please allow enough time between flights so you can comfortably reach your connecting gates.

Costa Rica Customs

After you pick up your suitcase at baggage claim, you must stop at the customs table and put your suitcase on a conveyor belt through the scanning machine. This takes about ten seconds. Then the customs agent will signal you to exit the customs area.

Customs Duties for Items Purchased in Costa Rica

When returning to the U.S., U.S. customs allows each person an exemption of customs taxes on up to $800.00 U.S. worth of Costa Rican goods that are in your possession and personally accompany you. Items to be sent later are not included in your $800 duty-free exemption. If two family members are traveling together, they may combine their customs exemption. For instance, a married couple will have a total $1,600.00 customs exemption. A flat duty rate of 3% is applied to the first $1,000 of goods per person beyond the $800 per person exemption. The duty-free exemption applies ONLY IF you have not used any exemption allowance whatsoever in the past 30 days. For instance, if you have made another international trip within the past 30 days, and used even a small exemption of $10, you would not get the $800 exemption. For this reason, sometimes it is best not to use the exemption if (1) the value of your goods is very low, and (2) you are planning to use the exemption on another trip within 30 days. Duty on items you mail home to yourself is waived if the value is $200 or less.

Customs Duties for Personal Items in Costa Rica

There is no customs duties charge for your personal items in Costa Rica.

Drivers License

You can drive with your normal driver's license in Costa Rica for 3 months after your entry into Costa Rica. There is no such thing as an international driver's license, although there is an international driving permit which you can buy for $10 at an American Automobile Association office. These permits are valid for one year after date of issue, and are valid only when accompanied by a valid driver's license. It is not necessary to buy an international driving permit for a visit of under 3 months to Costa Rica.

Fishing in Costa Rica

You can charter a deep sea fishing boat while you are staying on the Pacific Ocean. Quepos, has world class deep sea fishing. Chartered deep sea fishing boats are available for prices from $500 to $1,000 or more a day. If you decide to go fishing, please wear your life jackets at all times.

Activities in Costa Rica if Arriving a Day Early or Staying a Day Longer

Some clients participate in rafting tours or zip-line canopy tours. Caravan feels that these activities sometimes can be risky and dangerous. Others sign up for tours of Lankaster Gardens to see flowers, or horseback riding trips. There are travel desks at the hotels and numerous travel agents in San Jose, Fortuna who can arrange activities for you if you wish.

My Tour Price Includes

Virtually everything! Hotels, most meals, all of the activities described in the itinerary, airport departure transfers, gratuities to hotel porters and restaurant staff. Caravan’s professional Tour Directors and local guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a worry free vacation. They are fluent in English, experienced and fun, ensuring a worry-free vacation.

Preparing for the Tropics

It is recommended to bring at least one pair of quick-dry pants and one quick-dry shirt. The quick-dry pants that zip at the knee to convert into shorts are particularly popular. Be sure to also bring a sweater or jacket for the cooler night temperatures. Caravan does not make product endorsements, but many feel that Avon Skin So Soft oil (not cream), or Avon's Expedition anti-mosquito spray is effective protection against mosquito bites in the jungle. Caravan does not endorse any vitamin, but please note that Central American pharmacies sell 500 milligram Vitamin B-1 tablets, a non-prescription vitamin, as "anti-mosquito" pills. Many people take Vitamin B-1 pills and eat garlic for about two weeks prior to and during their visits to the jungle because they believe that the smell of Vitamin B-1 and garlic repels mosquitoes. If you believe this may be of value, consult your doctor for further information on Vitamin B-1 and garlic. Many also avoid eating bananas in the rainforest, as it is believed that this smell attracts mosquitoes. Also, it is wise to wear light-weight quick-dry long-sleeved pants and shirts in these tropical areas.

Are meals included?

Included meals for each tour are listed at the end of each day. Meals are shown by B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner). Full, buffet, or deluxe continental breakfasts are included everywhere. Free bottled water is provided on the motorcoach. Alcoholic beverages are not included unless specified.

Children on Tour

Children age five (5) and older are welcome on tour when accompanied by an adult. Usually, children travel during the school vacation months of June, July and August, and also during spring and winter school breaks.

Family Trips

Families are always welcome on any of our tours, but we do not have any programs specifically for or limited to families. Families can make specific requests for connecting, adjacent, triple or quad rooms, when available. Children must be at least 5 years old.

My Tour Price Does Not Include

Prices do not include air travel, country entry or departure fees, airport porters, visas, phone calls, valet, laundry, all items of a personal nature, extra food and beverages not on the regular menu, and tips to the Caravan Tour Director, driver, and local guides.

Age of Travelers on a Caravan Tour

Usually, you find a mix of different age adult travelers on a Caravan Tour. Children age five (5) and older are welcome, and children usually join tours offered during Christmas holidays, summer vacation and spring break vacation.

Forms of Payment

Caravan accepts payment (in U.S. funds only) via MasterCard, Visa, or Discover.

Many Tours Sell Out Each Year

The farther in advance that you book, the more likely it is that your preferred tour will be open. Late bookings are welcome if the space is still available.

Fully Guided Tours Since 1952

Caravan has been offering fully guided tours worldwide under the same family ownership and management since 1952. Caravan understands and truly cares about your great expectations.

Size of Tour Group

Group sizes will vary depending on the reserved rooms at the hotels and the capacity of the boats and motorcoaches used. Usually, group sizes range from 30 to 44 passengers.

A Well-Paced Itinerary

A well-paced and unhurried itinerary is our goal, after all, you are on vacation! Touring days begin and end at reasonable hours and include frequent stops. While the occasional early morning departure is necessary, we do our best to ensure a leisurely vacation.

Caravan’s $129 Travel Protection

Caravan Travel Protection offers peace of mind if you cancel for any reason whatsoever prior to the departure of the tour. The travel protection plan also includes air, baggage, evacuation, medical, and quarantine coverage. The cost is $129.

Read All 78 Travel TipsClick Here for All 78 Travel Tips

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Customer Reviews

These are only the first 7 Customer Reviews. Read all 280 Customer Reviews

"In all my travels I have never been blessed with such a professional, knowledgeable, kind and generous tour director. Jose went so far beyond all our expectations to make this tour such a pleasure and wonderful memory."

G. W., Auburn, Alabama

"I took the tour to see the nature and beauty of Costa Rica. It was beyond my expectations. Several friends had recommended this Caravan tour to me and now I am ready to recommend your company to others."

Mrs. D.T., Story, Wyoming

"This was the best vacation I've had. It is the only way to see Costa Rica."

Ms. P.H., Plano, Texas

"The sights were absolutely fabulous! We visited all the places we were interested in seeing. This was an exceptional tour at an exceptional price. The guides were very eco-minded. We received a good education from them and their passion for preserving their environment was contagious. We totally get it. Your Costa Rican tour was awesome."

Mr. & Mrs. B.H., Burton, Michigan

"The superior lodging and food made our concerns seem silly. We found all the hotels clean and modern. We always try to support local artists when we travel, so we were delighted to visit Sarchi with its oxcart factory and its shop with an extensive selection of goods made in Costa Rica. We enjoyed the spectacular and clean pools at Baldi Hot Springs, cruising the Rio Frio; the focus on flora and fauna attracted us to this trip in the first place."

Mr. & Mrs. M.C., Kenai, Arkansas

"I was in awe. I was in Costa Rica on vacation. Couldn’t have asked for a better ride from our driver. A first class guy. My first Caravan trip and I would recommend you guys to anyone."

Mr. H.T., Waterloo, Illinois

"It is almost impossible to visit a country in one week, but Caravan is doing a wonderful job in Costa Rica. Food was incredible, very fresh, great variety and plentiful. Love all activities. Got to see all birds and animals including the elusive sloth. We had a smooth ride, everything was just wonderful."

Ms. V.N., Terrytown, Louisiana

Read All 280 ReviewsClick Here to Read All 280 Customer Reviews

Caret DownCaret Up RedWhy Travel with Caravan?

Why Travel with Caravan?

Excellence Since 1952

You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.

PanAm Jet
In 1959, Pan Am invited Caravan to be the very first tour company to fly their clients on its new line of Clipper Jets.
Vintage Motorcoach
In 1964, Caravan introduced the very first fleet of air conditioned motorcoaches in all of Europe.
Leather Back Turtle Park
Caravan is a proud supporter of the Leatherback Turtle National Park and Costa Rica's efforts to protect this endangered giant.
Federal Reserve Bank Of Chicago

Caravan Care

For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.

Caravan's Proud History

In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.

Great Hotels

Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.

Meals

Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.

Complete Sightseeing

Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.

Fully Guided by Tour Directors

All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.

All-inclusive

Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.

Shopping Freedom

Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.

Great Value, Book Early

Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. In a typical year, most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best air fare.

How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?

Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.

Trade Association Memberships

Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).

NTA, ABA, CLIA, and ACMA