I returned from my Contiki tour about a month ago and, unfortunately, I cannot recommend this experience—particularly for trans or LGBTQ+ travelers, or anyone with dietary or medical needs.
From the outset, multiple accommodations on the trip fell below the standards promised in the itinerary. One hotel had tinted glass walls for both the toilet and shower, and no bathroom lock—a deeply unsafe setup, especially as a trans traveler. I had to pay out of pocket for alternate lodging just to feel safe. Contiki acknowledged this and reimbursed the hotel cost, but such a basic oversight should never have occurred on a vetted tour.
The issues didn't stop there. Despite declaring a severe dairy intolerance, I was repeatedly served or nearly served food containing cheese or cross-contaminated utensils. I eventually suffered a painful lactose reaction. While the guide was seated beside me when I excused myself due to illness, no one checked on me—for the rest of the tour. This level of neglect, both medical and empathetic, was extremely upsetting.
In addition, group dynamics were hostile and exclusionary. I was misgendered, mocked, and left to feel unwelcome for being trans. While Contiki markets itself as inclusive, the lack of response from staff or fellow travelers created an environment that was emotionally exhausting. Before I could initially submit a review, our guide held a group meeting where I was publicly called out for someone else submitting a complaint the tour guide had requested, creating even more pressure to stay quiet and avoid further conflict.
To top it off, I injured my thumb on the final day due to poor hotel bathroom design—there was no seating when I became nauseous from motion sickness, and a curved toilet lid snapped back against my hand. I sought medical help back home and, despite it being over a month since my trip, I still have pain. When I informed Contiki (after confirming the injury was real and non-fractured), they refused to acknowledge any possibility of compensation in the future.
Contiki ultimately offered me $300 USD as a gesture of goodwill for everything but the thumb, which I accepted—not as full compensation, but because at that point, I felt stonewalled. I also was supposed to receive a 5% travel credit, but they never sent instructions on how to apply or use this supposed credit.
This experience left me feeling unseen, unsafe, and unsupported. I had hoped for adventure, but spent much of the tour managing problems that should never have arisen in the first place. If you're trans, have dietary restrictions, or value responsive, professional care on your travels, I would recommend thinking twice before booking with Contiki.
