From lodging and transportation to excursions and activities, there are a lot of elements to consider when booking a vacation. However, something that isn’t always discussed is the uncertainty travelers with disabilities can face throughout the process. Will the accommodations be ADA-compliant? Are the excursions and tours truly accommodating for those with wheelchairs and other mobility aids? Are there resources available for tour-goers with special needs?
Luckily, there are travel companies dedicated to ensuring vacationers with accessiblity concerns have their needs met while simultaneously enjoying an amazing experience. Here are five of the best.
Ability Adventures
A region famous for its Maori culture, epic landscapes and iconic filming locations, New Zealand sits high atop many travelers’ bucket lists. And, thanks to companies like Ability Adventures, the country is becoming more accessible than ever. As the area’s premier disability travel company, Ability Adventures specializes in personalized itineraries and private tours for seniors and travelers with disabilities. Whether they're traveling alone, with a partner or in a group, Ability Adventures will help to arrange every detail to ensure the vacation goes off without a hitch. From disability-friendly accommodations to specialty equipment and care, they’ve got travelers covered. As for tours, vacationers can choose from multi-day guided tours, tailored accessible self-drive tours, private tours and staff-led shore excursions if they're visiting via cruise ship.
Epic Enabled
Based out of Cape Town, South Africa, Epic Enabled is a tour company dedicated to sharing the wonder of the African safari via curated itineraries designed for travelers with mobility aids, physical limitations, illnesses and special needs. Epic Enabled has several accessible group tours to choose from in addition to the option for private outings. When it comes to getting from point A to point B, the company does it with ease thanks to its assemblage of vehicles equipped with hydraulic lifts and ramps. Regarding accommodations, Epic Enabled supplies guests with accessible equipment for things like camping and cooking, while sleeping arrangements promise solid, off-the-ground beds and other accessible modifications.
Iceland Unlimited
Akin to something out of a fairytale, Iceland has become a coveted vacation destination thanks to its picturesque hot springs, impressive volcanoes, ancient glaciers and towering waterfalls. The Land of Fire and Ice is a place that sells itself, and now, tour operator Iceland Unlimited is making it possible for travelers to experience the country’s rugged landscape — no matter their mobility level — thanks to its selection of self-drive, guided group and private guided accessible tours.
Wheel the World
With tours available in more than a dozen countries and 80+ destinations, Wheel the World has become one of the industry's most notable resources for all things accessible travel. The company takes the guesswork out of booking accessible experiences and accommodations thanks to its collection of in-depth planning resources available online, while the group's guided tours offer participants peace of mind as vacationers can trust Wheel the World to choose vetted activites and properties that promise to meet their accessibility needs.
Il Viaggio Travel
Il Viaggio Travel is working to make beautiful Costa Rica accessible to all by connecting with travelers during the early stages of the vacation planning process. Upon browsing the company's website, travelers will find a strong network of vetting suppliers boasting accessible accommodations, tours and transportation throughout the country. In-destination, travelers can join an Il Viaggio Travel tour or travel plan to enjoy accessible transportation, accommodations, meals and more. The group even helps with some of the trickier parts of the traveling like private airport transfers, baggage handling and hotel reservations.
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