10 Wheelchair-Friendly Tour Companies Revolutionizing Travel

Organizing a trip as a wheelchair user can be quite challenging. Spending countless hours searching for accessible hotels, figuring out which transportation options are wheelchair-friendly, and creating lists of must-see accessible attractions can be overwhelming. But what if you could reduce much of that stress when planning your wheelchair-accessible vacation? Fortunately, there’s a way, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Globally, numerous tour companies focus on accessibility. They manage transportation and accommodations that cater to your needs and are well-versed in which attractions are accessible, allowing you to relax and anticipate your holiday while they handle all the details.

Whether you dream of visiting waterfalls in Iceland, rolling along the equator in Ecuador, embarking on a safari, or something entirely different, the 10 companies listed below make almost any experience attainable. Each one provides accessible tours, and while they aren't the only accessibility-focused companies out there, they rank among the finest.

Ability Adventures

If you’ve ever envisioned a trip to New Zealand, Ability Adventures can make that vision come true. As New Zealand’s premier accessible travel agency, they cater to all kinds of disabilities. Whether you use a wheelchair, are hard of hearing, blind, or a slower walker, they offer a wide array of tours tailored to your needs. You can discover national parks, visit historic sites, cruise fjords, or even try bungee jumping if you're feeling adventurous. (Please note that New Zealand remains closed to international travelers in 2021 due to the COVID pandemic.) Discover more about Ability Adventures here.

Accessible Caribbean Getaways

After the past year and a half, the Caribbean has never sounded more appealing, right?! If unwinding on a Caribbean island appeals to you, consider exploring Accessible Caribbean Vacations. This company provides accessible tours and shore excursions in over 20 Caribbean destinations. They can also arrange accessible cruises for guests and plan fully accessible shore excursions at every port of call. Whether you’re cruising through the Caribbean or flying to a destination, Accessible Caribbean Vacations ensures you have a fun and accessible experience. Learn more about Accessible Caribbean Vacations here.

Accessible Travel for the Disabled

Europe is filled with countless destinations worth exploring, and no matter which region you’re keen on, there’s a good chance that Disabled Accessible Travel has tours available. This company provides accessible shore excursions, land-based tours, and rental of mobility equipment. From famous locations like Italy and Spain to hidden gems like Latvia, Disabled Accessible Travel is equipped to meet all your accessibility requirements. Discover more about Disabled Accessible Travel here.

Epic Enabled

Going on a safari is a dream for many, and Epic Enabled is making that dream a reality for travelers with disabilities in South Africa. The company organizes monthly group safaris in Kruger National Park and a private game reserve, featuring an accessible safari truck. They also offer accessible tours in the stunning city of Cape Town. If you want to see lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and more in their natural habitat, consider booking a safari with Epic Enabled. Learn more about Epic Enabled here.

Iceland Unlimited

Are you eager to witness the northern lights, relax in hot springs, or marvel at stunning waterfalls? If so, Iceland might be the perfect destination for you. Jón Gunnar Benjaminsson, the founder and owner of Iceland Unlimited, is a wheelchair user himself, giving him unique insight into the best activities for fellow travelers with disabilities. His company can arrange accessible tours across the entire country. Find out more about Iceland Unlimited here.

Il Viaggio Travel

While Central America is often not the most accessible for wheelchair users, Costa Rica stands out as an exception. Thanks to Il Viaggio Travel, wheelchair users can fully enjoy everything Costa Rica has to offer. They provide adapted transportation and customizable tours to the rainforest, the vibrant capital city of San Jose, and even opportunities for adaptive surfing at the best beaches in the country. Learn more about Il Viaggio Travel here.

Latin America for All

South America is brimming with extraordinary destinations waiting to be explored. If you’re considering a trip to Ecuador, the Galapagos, Peru, or Argentina, be sure to look into Latin America for All. This company takes care of all the planning, ensuring you can fully savor these incredible locations. While accessibility may vary among the three countries, Latin America for All will tailor your journey to make it as accessible as possible. Discover more about Latin America for All here.

Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants

Before visiting, I had little knowledge of Morocco, but it quickly became one of my top destinations thanks to an amazing trip organized by Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants. The company provides adapted transportation and can personalize itineraries based on individual needs. You can explore vibrant cities like Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech, or even venture into the Sahara desert. They have also designed an adapted camel saddle, allowing wheelchair users to ride camels safely and comfortably in the desert. Learn more about Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants here.

Saku Travel

Estonia is a European gem that often gets overlooked, especially if it’s not part of a cruise itinerary, but it’s definitely worth the visit, whether you're cruising through Scandinavia or not. The capital, Tallinn, is stunning, and there are accessible adventures beyond the city, such as hiking or rolling along a smooth boardwalk trail in the bogs of Lahemaa National Park. Saku Travel provides accessible transportation throughout the country, and their knowledgeable guides ensure wheelchair users have a fantastic experience. Discover more about Saku Travel here.

Wheel the World

Wheel the World has rapidly established itself as a premier company specializing in accessible tours. They offer excursions in over a dozen countries, complete with transportation and a wide range of accessible activities, including some thrilling adventures. With Wheel the World, you can explore Easter Island, zipline in Mexico, or even try dune ing in Qatar ... just to highlight a few. Learn more about Wheel the World here.

All images provided by the author