22 April 2026
Why Book Direct Instead of Using Viator or GetYourGuide
The commission platforms take 20–30% of what you pay. Here's what that means for you — and what you get when you book direct.
Why Book Direct Instead of Using Viator or GetYourGuide
Viator and GetYourGuide are useful tools for discovering tours you didn't know existed. But once you've found a tour operator — once you've read the reviews, checked the itinerary, decided they're worth booking — there's rarely a reason to pay through the marketplace.
The commission structure
Viator and GetYourGuide charge operators between 20% and 30% commission on every booking. That money has to come from somewhere.
Some operators absorb it by running larger groups. Some absorb it by cutting corners on what's included. Some simply charge the same price on both channels and treat the marketplace as a marketing cost they've decided to pay.
When you book direct, that margin doesn't disappear — it either comes back to you as a better price, or it funds a better experience, or both.
What direct booking actually means
You book through this site, I respond within 24 hours, we confirm the details by email or WhatsApp. Payment is arranged directly (bank transfer or card).
You get my actual contact details, not a support ticket system. If something changes — the weather shifts, your flight lands late, you want to adjust the route — you're talking to me, not a call centre.
A note on reviews
Marketplace reviews are algorithmically weighted by recency and response rate. A guide with 20 specific, recent reviews often ranks above one with 200 excellent reviews from three years ago.
The best indication of whether a private guide is worth booking is reading a few reviews closely — not counting stars, but reading what people actually say. Then reaching out and seeing how they respond.