What's the difference between a travel agent and a tour operator?
What's the difference between a travel agent and a tour operator?
Travel agents sell and book travel arrangements offered by various operators, while tour operators, like Wild Wings Safaris, specialise in creating and running custom tours, and handling all trip details. As a SATSA member since 2006, we ensure trustworthy and high-quality safari experiences.
The distinction between a travel agent and a tour operator often causes confusion. Here's a simple explanation:
Travel Agent
- Sells and books travel arrangements (e.g., flights, hotels, tours) offered by various tour operators.
- Does not package or operate tours themselves.
- Represents multiple destinations worldwide.
- Typically affiliated with organisations like IATA (International Air Transport Association), ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents), or ASATA (Association of Southern African Travel Agents).
- In the UK, travel agents are often ABTA members, offering financial protection.
Tour Operator (like Wild Wings Safaris)
- Specialises in creating and operating their own tours, as well as arranging custom travel packages.
- Handles all trip details, including accommodation, transport, transfers, guides, meals, and optional activities.
- Packages various services and attractions into a tailored itinerary.
- Often focuses on land arrangements, rather than booking international flights, but may assist with domestic or regional flights.
- In Southern Africa, tour operators usually belong to SATSA (Southern Africa Tourism Services Association).
At Wild Wings Safaris, we've been a proud member of SATSA since 2006, ensuring high standards and trustworthiness for your safari experience.
