Emma WhiteDid you know that traveling can lower stress, boost mental health, and enhance creativity? While we reap all these benefits, it has its downside as well: making tedious travel plans.
That’s where the best travel agencies in Ottawa come in handy. They’ll book flights and accommodations, plan itineraries, and even provide insider tips so that you can focus on what’s important: planning your OOTDs!
So, whether you’re going on a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, these travel agencies are here to turn your travel dreams into a hassle-free reality.
| How much does a travel agency charge in Ottawa? Travel agencies in Ottawa typically charge a security deposit ranging from $100 to $500, while travel itinerary planning can cost upwards of $250. Additionally, flight booking fees range from $30 to $60. However, these costs may be influenced by factors such as the complexity of the trip, additional services required, and the reputation of the travel agency. |
How We Chose the Best Travel Agencies in Ottawa
1. Fairouz Travel
Business Address: 1757 Bank St Unit 204, Ottawa, ON K1V 7Z4
Website: fairouztravel.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/fairouz_travel
Phone Number: (613) 842-9595
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 7:30 PM
Saturday: 9 AM – 3 PM
Fairouz Travel has been a trusted provider of exceptional travel experiences since its establishment in 1987.
They specialize in destination weddings, boasting Certified Destination Wedding Specialists who help couples bring their dream celebrations to life, all at no additional cost.
By creating a profile and outlining preferences, clients are paired with an expert who guides them through every step of the planning process.
Then, Fairouz Travel handles all the details, from securing room blocks to booking reservations for the couple and their guests.
Aside from wedding destinations, they also offer all-inclusive packages to exotic destinations such as Aruba, Bahamas, St. Maarten, Jamaica, and Costa Rica.
Fairouz Travel caters to corporate travel needs, providing comprehensive solutions for businesses.
As a bonus, they offer accessible 24-hour customer support.
Pros
- Over 30 years of experience
- Specializes in destination weddings
- Has Certified Destination Wedding Specialists
- Offers all-inclusive packages
- Corporate travel needs
- 24-hour customer support
Cons
- Pricey
Mind-blowing travel agency!
“Mind-blowing travel agency! Words can’t capture the level of excellence they bring to the table. From crafting a bespoke itinerary to executing flawlessly, every detail is masterfully curated. A team that turns dreams into reality, ensuring your journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Prepare for a travel experience that transcends expectations!”
– Joseph, Google Review
Best travel agency in Ottawa
“Best travel agency in Ottawa. They helped me out to find the best itinerary to travel with the best price. They’re fast, patient and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.”
– Halil Muhammed, Google Review
2. Flight Centre
Business Address: 362 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K2A 0E8
Website: flightcentre.ca/stores/storedetail/westboro
Instagram: instagram.com/flightcentreca
Phone Number: +1 888-242-6321
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 10 AM – 6 PM
Flight Centre prides itself on its team of travel-obsessed travel experts, boasting over 38,475 years of collective experience in the industry.
In fact, they’ve garnered recognition with industry awards. Examples include the Most Outstanding Travel Agency Group at the NTIA Awards 2023 and World Travel Awards – Canada’s Leading Online Travel Agency 2023.
Their Best Price Calendar feature offers hot deals to various destinations any day of the week, simplifying vacation planning for travelers.
Flight Centre specializes in luxury vacations. They provide personalized service to destinations like Singapore, Montego Bay, Bahamas, and Venice.
Furthermore, they offer all-inclusive and last-minute vacation packages to cater to diverse preferences. Cruises and tours are also offered.
Their Flight Centre app allows travelers to access great deals and plan their adventures from anywhere, making it easier than ever to embark on their next getaway.
Pros
- Over 38,475 years of collective experience
- Offers Best Price Calendar promos
- Specializes in luxury vacations
- All-inclusive and last-minute vacations
- Cruises and tours
- Has its own Flight Centre app
Cons
- Reports of subpar service
Amazing service, will always come back!
“Amazing service, will always come back! Cannot recommend Elyshia enough. She really gives amazing service: professional, attentive, answered all our questions and really tried to make our trip as easy and stress-free as as possible with two little ones! Thank you again Elyshia! We’ll definitely be back for the booking of our next trip! :)”
– Carla Dagnolo, Google Review
Has been our travel agent for 6 years
“Elyshia at the Westboro location has been our travel agent for 6 years and we’ve followed her to 3 different locations. She’s our travel agent. She goes way above and beyond. Having said that, whenever we needed something and she wasn’t available, the other agents were more than happy to help and seemed as committed as Elyshia to making our experiences were nothing less than the best.”
– Kelly Adkins, Google Review
3. CAA Hunt Club
Business Address: 2446 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1V 1A4
Website: caaneo.ca/store/hunt-club
Instagram: instagram.com/caa_neo
Phone Number: (613) 736-9696
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 6 PM
Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
CAA Hunt Club boasts the title of Canada’s oldest and largest member-based organization. At CAA, members are promised confidence to explore the world around them or their own backyard.
Their travel services are available both in-person and virtually. They even offer passport photo services for upcoming adventures without the need for an appointment.
They specialize in travel across Canada, North America, Europe, Mexico, and the Caribbean, offering various ‘sun packages.’
And, they offer rail journeys, from scenic train rides across Canada to exploring the Red Rocks in the U.S. or traversing the Swiss Alps.
Moreover, CAA Hunt Club provides options for ocean and river cruises, as well as guided tours.
Beyond travel, CAA Hunt Club offers a range of insurance products, including auto, home, travel, pet, and life insurance, with members enjoying up to 20% savings.
Pros
- Canada’s oldest and largest member-based organization
- In-person and virtual travel services
- Specializes in travel across Canada and North America
- Also offers packages in Europe, Mexico, and the Caribbean
- Offers rail journeys, cruises, and guided tours
- Range of insurance products
Cons
- Lack of responsiveness
One of the best travel agency stores in Ottawa
“One of the best travel agency stores in Ottawa. Highly recommend this place if you want to book any kind of travel, travel insurance, cruise, travel products, etc. If you are a CAA member you get exclusive perks for the store merchandise as well as deals in regards to travel. Premier/plus memberships are the best bang for your buck! Will be back.”
– Rami, Google Review
Been a CAA member for 10 years
“I’ve been a CAA member for 10 years. Needed to call for a battery boost today. From the phone call to the guy who arrived when I was told he would, the service was excellent. Thank you CAA.”
– Lynne Hornbrook, Google Review
4. Ottawa Valley Tours
Business Address: Hazeldean Mall 300 Eagleson Road Ottawa, Ontario K2M 1C9
Website: ottawavalleytours.com
Instagram: instagram.com/ottawavalleytours
Phone Number: (613) 723-5701
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 9:30 AM – 4 PM
For more than half a century, Ottawa Valley Tours has been the go-to destination for packaged group tours.
They specialize in both one-day excursions and multi-day getaways across Canada and the US. “No Fly” cruises to Bermuda, the Caribbean, or the New England Coast are also on the table.
They offer customized packages for specialized groups. Some of these include theater vacations, sightseeing escapes, shopping sprees, sunny South getaways, flower festivals, country music shows, and casino tours.
Traveling aboard their deluxe modern motorcoaches provides a touch of luxury with amenities like washrooms, air-conditioning, video, and PA systems. Plus, each tour is led by a professional tour director.
Moreover, they offer an eco-friendly travel alternative, with one motor coach effectively removing 27 cars from the highway.
For those looking to venture further afield, they also offer air packages to explore destinations like Arizona, Las Vegas, and the Grand Canyon.
Pros
- Over 50 years of experience
- Specializes in “No Fly” cruises
- Offers customized packages
- Deluxe modern motorcoaches
- Eco-friendly travel alternative
- Also offers air packages
Cons
- Reports of abrupt cancellations
Wow wow wow! Absolutely recommend!
“Wow wow wow! Absolutely recommend! An amazing experience. I went a couple years ago although the tour has improved in so many ways. Erin the tour guide and Daniel the bus driver added to our experience. Their joy in their career made the bus ride and tour above and beyond. We will definitely be returning as long as Daniel and Erin are on the bus with us, they deserve a promotion! We will recommend to all friends and family.”
– Kassandra Dup, Google Review
Had an amazing time with my teenage children!
“Had an amazing time with my teenage children! Went on a NYC trip and was hesitant at first about a bus trip but glad I went! Robert, the NYC guide was great!! Gilles, our driver, was wonderful!! Erin, the tour guide, was amazing and went above and beyond for everyone!!! She helped us feel confident navigating NYC on our own and was very helpful answering questions. Highly recommend the NYC tour and will likely be back. My only recommendation is to have online options to book and pay for the trips. Thanks for an amazing girls trip!!”
– Kim D, Google Review
5. Orleans Travel & Cruise Centre
Business Address: 1455 Youville Dr Unit 204, Ottawa, ON K1C 6Z7
Website: orleanstravel.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/orleanstravel
Phone Number: (613) 824-2432
Business Hours: Mon – Tue, Thurs – Fri: 10 AM – 5 PM
Founded in 1993, Orleans Travel & Cruise Centre is a leading corporate and leisure travel agency nestled in Orleans. With the slogan “Let Travel be part of Your Story,” they aim to deliver unforgettable travel experiences.
Specializing in Disney vacations, they curate dream experiences for families, which include the best rides, dining spots, or accommodations.
They’re experts in well-being travel. Whether you seek tranquility, adventure, or rejuvenation, they can tailor a trip that aligns with your preferences, from luxury spa retreats to active outdoor excursions.
For those with a penchant for European exploration, they have tours to Italy, Greece, and Portugal through Exoticca.
Additionally, they offer price matching to ensure clients receive the best value for their travel investment.
As a cherry on top, they waive booking fees for any vacation package.
Pros
- Over 30 years of experience
- Specializes in Disney vacations
- Experts in well-being travel
- Offers European exploration
- Offers price matching
- Waives booking fees
Cons
- Reports of disorganized trips
If I could give more stars, I would
“We went on John and Andrea’s Italy Culinary Tour in Sept 2023. If I could give more stars I would. This small group tour exceeded all our expectations and we would highly recommend it for anyone. This 14 day tour of Italy sampling the many diverse culinary styles has everything – from a dedicated tour manager and driver, local expert guides, walking tours with historical details and landmarks, cooking lessons, four course meals with wine pairings, wine tastings, cheese tastings, pasta making, balsamic vinegar tastings, and pasta, gelato and so much more. Never the same menu twice and everything was absolutely delicious! They had a great balance of tours and free time for each location. Totally stress free travel with our tour manager providing daily updates on the next day’s activities, recommended restaurants and recommended museums, sights and activities. Well worth the price. Can’t wait to go on another of John and Andrea’s organized trips!”
– D Y, Google Review
All our needs and wishes were valued as important
“I went on their South Africa trip in 2023 and it was amazing. Well organized and we were a group of 23 and all our needs and wishes were valued as important. They did all the heavy lifting and we just needed to try and be on time. Thank you for a wonderful trip.”
– pmonette1, Google Review
6. CNH Tours
Business Address: 14 Kilbarry Crescent, Ottawa, ON K1K 0G8, Canada
Website: https://www.cnhtours.com/
Instagram:
Phone Number: +1 613-740-1104
Business Hours: Daily: 8 AM–12:30 PM, 2:30–5:30 PM
CNH Tours is a specialized tour operator with deep ties to the Galapagos Islands. Founded by Heather Blenkiron and Marc Patry, who have both lived and worked extensively in the Galapagos, the company boasts a team of experienced professionals. Heather and Marc’s unique backgrounds in conservation and their roles in prestigious organizations like the Darwin Research Station and the UN highlight their commitment to the region.
One of the significant advantages of booking with CNH Tours is their intimate knowledge of the destinations they serve. All team members have lived or worked in these locations, maintaining close relationships with local service providers. This ensures that guests benefit from the most current and comprehensive information, enhancing their travel experience.
Additionally, CNH Tours prioritizes environmental responsibility by offsetting all carbon emissions related to their trips, certified by the Gold Standard. Another notable benefit is the emergency medical evacuation insurance included for all guests, providing up to $200,000 in coverage, ensuring peace of mind during travels.
Furthermore, CNH Tours stands out for its strong consumer protection measures. As an Ontario-based company, it is registered under the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO), which safeguards travelers’ investments through the Ontario Travel Industry Compensation Fund. This means that guests’ payments are securely managed and protected, offering financial security rarely matched by other tour operators.
CNH Tours ensures that guests do not pay more than anyone else for the same services, as all Galapagos cruises are sold at a set rate by the ship owners. CNH Tours always respects the rate set by the ship owners, one of the reasons they are so highly respected in Ecuador.
The price you pay CNH Tours is the same as you would pay if you were to book directly with the ship owner. The only additional costs might be for custom elements added to the Galapagos cruise, as smaller group guide services can be more expensive.
In conclusion, CNH Tours offers a highly specialized and deeply informed travel experience in the Galapagos Islands and other select destinations. Their strong connections to local communities, commitment to environmental sustainability, and robust consumer protection measures make them a trustworthy choice for discerning travelers.
Pros
- Carbon-neutral trips
- Intimate knowledge of destinations
- $200,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
- Strong consumer protection through TICO
Cons
- Busy during peak seasons
- Focus exclusively on expedition cruises, which tend to be expensive
Here are some reviews from their clients:
“Our trip to the Galapagos on the ship Evolution was our first organized tour of any kind. Marc, Heather, and company were super organized, communicated and re-communicated frequently, and were always available to hand-hold when needed. It was an incredible trip. Their itinerary choices clearly showed their deep understanding and sense of wonder about the special natural places we visited, the communities alongside, and how they work together. In addition to the cruise, our tour included 2 nights in Quito and also 2 in Puerto Ayora on the Island of Santa Cruz. It was a pretty busy itinerary, but it was worth it and gave our experience in the Islands a needed context and made it a lot more than just an iconic photo-safari. If there was a better way to experience the Galapagos, I’m sure Marc and Heather would have arranged it. The trip concluded with a comprehensive tour of the Charles Darwin Research Station where Marc worked in the past and where he still has a connection. Finally, I want to mention how uniformly good the local guides were. Marc and Heather must put a lot of effort into choosing the right people. They were smart and insightful and just as enthusiastic to be sharing their home as we were enthusiastic to listen.”
“Trip of a lifetime. From the beginning of our planning, Heather and CNH Tours listened to our wants and made it happen. From a few days in the big City of Quito, staying at the lovely Mama Cucharas, to a jaunt up to the Cloud Forrest and the incredibly beautiful birds at BelleVista eco lodge, to 10 days in the Galápagos Islands with 8 days being spent on the Samba, ending our adventure with two days in the Volcanoes with a stop at a rose plantation – every need was met and the trip went off without a hitch. I recommend CNH Tours if you wish to fulfill your dreams of a trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Snorkeling, hiking, swimming, eating, lessons in history and culture. It’s all there for you. The Samba is best in class – amazing naturalist guide, first class crew, a captain with a great sense of humour, a chef that won’t let you experience hunger. We are so very happy we did this. And we will return to experience more of the islands and the Amazon…utilizing CNH to get us there!!! Mucho mucho mucho gracias, Heather and crew.”
