Gliding through a new city aboard a futuristic-looking Segway is an unforgettable way to explore exciting destinations. As wonderful as these tours can be, many first-timers have questions about what to expect and how to prepare.
As someone who has led over 100 Segway tours in 3 different cities, let me share my insider expertise to ensure you have an amazing experience!
In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll cover everything from tipping etiquette, weight limits, safety gear, choosing a tour company, and much more. Consider me your personal Segway concierge – let‘s get rolling!
An Introduction to Segway Tours
For those unfamiliar, a Segway tour involves following a guide as you roll through parks, neighborhoods, waterfronts and other sights on these cool two-wheeled vehicles.
Tours are typically 1.5 to 3 hours and offered in most major tourist destinations. Popular spots include:
- Washington DC
- San Francisco
- Paris
- Barcelona
- Rome
- Vienna
- Istanbul
Segways allow you to cover more ground than walking, while learning from an informative guide. My tours stop frequently for photos and commentary about landmarks.
It‘s a peaceful way to experience a new place and great for families or groups. Now let‘s get into everything you need to know before booking your tour!
Should You Tip Your Segway Tour Guide?
One of the most common questions I get is whether tipping your guide is expected. The answer is yes!
As with any tour guide, hairstylist, or food delivery driver, tipping 15-20% of the total tour cost per person is customary.
For example, on my $50 San Francisco tour, I recommend $8-$10 per rider as a tip.
Factors to consider when deciding how much to tip include:
- Length of tour – For tours over 2 hours, tip toward 20%
- Group size – On a private tour, tip at the higher end
- Service quality – Excellent guides deserve extra gratitude!
I recommend tipping your guide in cash rather than on a card for privacy. Hand it discreetly upon conclusion and thank them for a great time!
Now that we‘ve covered tipping, let‘s discuss how to choose the right tour company.
Choosing the Best Segway Tour Company
While there are many tour operators to pick from, here are the key factors I consider when choosing:
- Safety record – Ensure no major incidents and guide certification
- Segway model – Newer models have better handling and safety
- Group size – Smaller groups (6-12 riders) allow personalized attention
- Price – Compare similar tour durations and locations
- Guide expertise – Look for experienced, enthusiastic guides
- Cancellation policy – Flexibility if plans change
I always check online reviews to hear directly from past riders about their experiences.
Below is a comparison of popular Segway tour companies in a few top destinations:
| Company | Tour Length | Price | Group Size | Cancellation Policy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DC Segway Tours | 2 hours | $70 | 8 people max | 48 hours |
| Paris Segway Tours | 2.5 hours | $80 | 12 people max | 24 hours |
| Barcelona Walking Tours | 1.5 hours | $50 | 10 people max | 12 hours |
No matter who you book with, look for guides certified by the International Institute of Tourism or similar organizations. This ensures proper training.
Next, let‘s go over what to wear and bring.
How to Dress for Your Segway Tour
To safely ride a Segway, your clothing and footwear choices are important:
Shoes
✅ Flat closed-toe athletic shoes or sneakers
❌ No heels, sandals, flip-flops
Clothing
✅ T-shirts, shorts, pants, jeans
❌ Avoid overly loose/flowing clothes that could get caught
Layers
Bring layers for sun, wind, rain, and temperature changes
Extras
- Sunglasses
- Hat/visor
- Phone holder
- Water bottle
Avoid baggy clothes that could get tangled. Leave the ballgowns and wedges at home!
With the right outfit, you‘ll be stylishly gliding through the city.
Segway Tour Requirements: Weight, Age, Safety
To keep riders of all ages safe, Segway tour companies have a few restrictions:
Weight Limits
- Maximum weight: 220-260 lbs depending on location
- Minimum weight: 100 lbs
Provide your accurate weight when booking to ensure the Segway can handle it. Lighter riders may need a different model.
Age Minimum
- Most tours require riders to be at least 12-16 years old.
- Younger children are often prohibited for safety reasons.
Safety Gear
- Helmet required – Provided onsite
- Closed toe shoes
- No alcohol or drug use beforehand
Following the rules ensures fun for all!
Helpful Tips for Seniors and Pregnant Riders
Segway tours are great for all ages, but I recommend a few extra precautions for seniors and pregnant riders:
Seniors
- Consult your doctor about physical health requirements
- Take it slow and be mindful of bumps
- Use extended handlebars for comfort
- Consider a private tour with extra assistance
Pregnant Riders
- Consult doctor about risks, especially in 3rd trimester
- Pay extra attention to balance
- Stop to take breaks as needed
- Avoid zig-zagging or sharp turns
- Drink plenty of water
As long as you take it slow and easy, it can be a safe, enjoyable time!
Kids on Segway Tours – Safety Tips and Advice
Segway tours are exciting for kids ages 12 and up (depending on location). To ensure junior riders have fun while staying safe:
- Verify age and size limits for children riders
- Make sure kids are mature enough to follow safety rules
- Have kids wear properly fitted helmets
- Don‘t let kids speed ahead or lag behind the group
- Ensure kids do not play on Segways outside tour times
- Consider a family private tour for personalized attention
- Bring band-aids and first-aid essentials just in case
With patience and preparation, Segway tours make for lifelong memories!
Expert Tips for the Best Segway Tour Experience
After leading hundreds of Segway tours, I‘ve gathered a few pro tips:
💡 Take things slow until you get comfortable steering
💡 Lean gently into turns – don‘t jerk the handlebar
💡 Follow the guide‘s instructions precisely
💡 Wave to pedestrians and share smiles
💡 Stop fully before mounting or dismounting
💡 Ask your guide questions whenever you like
💡 Stay with the group at all times rather than zipping ahead
By following these expert pointers, you‘ll ride like a pro in no time!
What You Should NOT Do On a Segway Tour
While Segway riding is very safe, tour companies prohibit certain behaviors:
🚫 No carrying passengers or bags on your Segway
🚫 No horseplay, racing, or stunts
🚫 No drinking alcohol before or during tours
🚫 No headphones or phone use while riding
🚫 No riding over curbs, stairs, or obstacles
🚫 No customized routes – stay with the group
Think safety first and use good common sense. Enjoy the ride while showing courtesy to guide, riders, and pedestrians alike.
Frequently Asked Segway Tour Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions I get from riders:
Do they weigh you before the tour?
You will need to provide your weight when booking to ensure you meet the requirements. Guides may ask for confirmation onsite.
Can you wear dresses, skirts, or heels?
Yes to dresses and skirts – just avoid overly long or flowing ones. But heels and wedges are unsafe. Stick to flat, athletic shoes.
Is there an age minimum or maximum?
Most tours require riders to be age 12-16+. There is generally no upper age limit, but health factors may come into play.
Can two people ride one Segway?
No, two riders on one Segway is prohibited. Each person must ride their own for safety and balance reasons.
How fast do Segways go?
Segways reach top speeds of about 12 mph, but tours average 6-8 mph based on terrain and safety factors. Guides limit speed.
Can you ride Segways while pregnant?
It‘s possible, but not recommended as a precaution. Consult your doctor about associated risks before booking a tour while pregnant.
And those are the key questions I‘m asked all the time! Feel free to ask your tour guide any others.
The Open Road Awaits!
Hopefully this guide has equipped you with all the must-know information to make your Segway tour an incredible experience.
From tipping etiquette to safety rules, you now have the confidence to book that bucket list tour and glide your way through scenic spots in style.
When you feel the wind in your hair as you roll through a landmark-filled park or buzz down a busy city street, it‘s impossible not to smile.
Thanks for listening to my Segway wisdoms. Never stop exploring this beautiful world – I‘ll see you on the next tour!
