I operate outdoor adventure experiences in six State and National Parks throughout the state of California. My day is spent teaching rock climbing instruction of all levels, rappelling, overnight backpacking, map and compass navigation and tailored corporate team building events.
CAREER
Travel Guides
Overview
Salary Median (2023)
$36,060
Projected Job Growth (2023-2033)
+5.4% (as fast as the average)
Career
Roadtrip Nation Leaders in This Career
What Travel Guides Do
Plan, organize, and conduct long-distance travel, tours, and expeditions for individuals and groups.
Other Job Titles Travel Guides May Have
Cruise Counselor, Guide, Naturalist Guide, Tour Coordinator, Tour Escort, Tour Manager, Tour Operations Specialist, Tour Operator, Travel Consultant, Whitewater Rafting Guide
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
We utilize family stories and extensive research to put together public and private walking tours of Macon, Georgia. We get to collaborate with experienced tour guides and music history buffs to share some of the best historic sites of the South that are rich in music history. In my spare time, I am also a communications specialist and journalist, so I write a lot and am constantly looking for fun, new ways of sharing interesting stories. I do most of the marketing side of the business.
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Arrange for tour or expedition details such as accommodations, transportation, equipment, and the availability of medical personnel.
- Plan tour itineraries, applying knowledge of travel routes and destination sites.
- Resolve any problems with itineraries, service, or accommodations.
- Attend to special needs of tour participants.
- Sell travel packages.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Travel Guides
Most common level of education among people in
this career: High school diploma or equivalent (46%)
Less than high school diploma
High school diploma or equivalent
Some college, no degree
Majors Related to Career
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
High School
Bachelor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
Graduate
Tourism and Travel Services Management
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
I am certified as a Canadian Level I Avalanche Analyst and certified as a Single Pitch Climbing Instructor by the AMGA. Getting certified in various sports safety and techniques is extremely valuable and lends credibility to your experience. Get outside and start exploring!
I have several rescue and guide school training certifications so that I can be prepared for a variety of circumstances.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
High School Students
Food & Travel Writer
Go intern in the industry that you think you want to work in when you grow up. If you feel you fit in the work culture & enjoy your work, then pursue a degree in that field. You may have different skills & aptitude (in my case it was math) from where your heart is (in my case travel)!
College Students
Everyone
This page includes information from theO*NET 29.2 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
