Going it alone? Single travelers get a break on tours from Ireland to Africa

Joining a group as a solo traveler often costs extra — sometimes to the tune of hundreds of dollars. Here are some international trips that offer relief from the so-called single supplement on a variety of destinations.

Deal 1: Go Ireland offers five- and eight-day itineraries for “Hidden Kerry,” a guided walking tour that covers seven to 11 miles a day in some of Ireland’s most spectacular countryside. Group size is eight to 16 people. Trip prices per person start at $945 and $1,245 respectively, excluding tax, fees and airfare. The single supplement charge, which ranges from $157 to $292, is waived for the first two singles to sign up for each tour.

When: Trips with the single supplement waiver depart in May, June, September and October.

Tested: I called Go Ireland and found availability for the eight-day tour leaving Sept. 3 departure. With the single supplement waived, the price came to $1,287 per person excluding tax and fees. Check out the itinerary and strenuousness of the hikes at Go Ireland’s website; reservations can be made only by phone for this deal.

Contact: Go Ireland, (800) 721-4672.

Deal 2: Luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent invites solo travelers to explore Africa, Egypt, China, Italy and other destinations by waiving or reducing single supplements on selected itineraries this year. Examples include a 10-day “Tanzania Wildlife Discovery” leaving Oct. 13 that waives the $530 single supplement.

When: Check the website for a list of departure dates and trips that offer the single-traveler savings.

Tested: I found availability on the “Tanzania Wildlife Discovery” trip which costs $5,650 per person excluding taxes, fees and airfare. Maximum group size on this trip is 18. Note you can book trips by phone or by contacting a travel agent.

Contact: Abercrombie & Kent, (800) 554-7016.