Tour leader

What does a tour leader do? – Tasks and work environment

A tour leader is responsible for guiding groups of travelers or tourists through various activities, excursions, and trips. Tasks include planning and executing tours, guiding, providing information, and solving problems on-site. Tour leaders often act as the group's point of contact and ensure that participants have a safe and memorable experience. The work environment varies depending on the focus; work may take place outdoors in nature, in cities, or while traveling, often involving irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a tour leader has increased from 28,200 SEK in 2022 to 28 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.1% over the period. The salary increase between 2023 and 2024 is particularly notable, with a percentage rise of just over 6% in one year. This positive trend reflects an increased demand for qualified tour leaders, especially as travel recovers after the pandemic. Industry seasonal variations and competition for experienced guides have likely also contributed to upward pressure on wages, although the profession still remains slightly below the average for similar roles within the tourism industry.

Tour leader salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 27,700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male): 30,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary (female): 33,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary (male): 31,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 181 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 97% of what men do (29 900 SEK vs. 30 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: No detailed statistics available

Education and qualifications

To work as a tour leader, a high school diploma is often required, preferably with a focus on tourism, nature, or languages. Many employers value experience in customer service and previous work within the travel or experience industry. There are also vocational training programs and courses that deepen knowledge in guiding techniques, safety, and group management. Practical experience and language skills are advantageous and can determine employment opportunities.

• High school education: Tourism, nature, or languages (2–3 years)
• Vocational training: Guides and tour leaders, 1–2 years
• Certifications/courses: Guiding techniques, first aid, safety
• Internship: Commonly included as part of education
• Language skills: Often required in English and additional languages

Common benefits and compensations

Tour leaders are often offered benefits such as per diems during travel, free meals and accommodation on longer assignments, and compensation for unsociable hours. In some cases, employers also cover training, equipment, and insurance related to the work. Access to discounted or free travel is also common, especially with larger travel companies.

Competition and challenges

The job market for tour leaders is seasonal and competition can be fierce, especially before popular holiday periods. Limited permanent positions often lead to short-term or seasonal employment. Flexibility and the ability to quickly learn new destinations or concepts are crucial for success. Wage development is relatively slow and influenced by factors such as economic trends, travel trends, and technological developments in the travel industry. Lack of work during the low season and language requirements pose additional challenges.

Tips for those aspiring to become a tour leader

To succeed as a tour leader, it is beneficial to combine good organizational skills with a strong sense of service. Being communicative and able to express oneself clearly in multiple languages is a significant advantage, especially when guiding international groups. Flexibility and stress resistance are important qualities, as workdays are often unpredictable and may involve quick changes. Being solution-oriented and creative helps in handling unexpected situations or re-planning tours. Gaining practical experience early through internships or seasonal jobs also provides contacts and references within the industry. Finally, continuous further education, such as in guiding techniques or first aid, increases employability and opportunities for more qualified assignments.

Key facts about Tour Leaders

• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or vocational education within tourism
• Work form: Seasonal employment or project-based
• Language skills: English and often additional languages required
• Job openings in the profession: Approximately 550

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a tour leader can advance to more specialized roles, such as responsible for larger groups, destination manager, or trainer of new guides. Opportunities also exist to move into project management within travel arrangements or to start a business within the tourism sector. The prognosis from the Employment Service for guides and tour leaders is uncertain, as the profession is small and statistical data limited. However, the number of job openings indicates ongoing demand within the profession. Those who combine experience with further education and language skills have good future prospects, especially as interest in experience-based travel increases.

Frequently asked questions about Tour Leaders

• What is the average salary for a Tour Leader?
  - The average salary for a tour leader is 30 200 SEK per month.
• What is the highest salary for a Tour Leader?
  - The highest salary is 33,600 SEK per month and belongs to a woman in the public sector.
• How much does a tour leader earn per hour?
  - The hourly wage averages 181 SEK for hourly-paid employees.
• What education is required to become a tour leader?
  - High school education with a focus on tourism, and preferably courses in guiding techniques and languages.
• Are there jobs available as a tour leader?
  - There are approximately 550 job openings within the guide and tour leader profession.
• Is there a significant salary gap between women and men?
  - Women earn 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Customer service skills, communication ability, flexibility, and stress resistance are highly valued.