Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking an Andaman Tour Package

Planning a vacation to the Andaman Islands is an exciting experience, especially when you envision crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and the thrill of water sports waiting for you. However, the difference between a dream trip and a travel mishap often lies in the planning—particularly when choosing your Andaman tour package.

Many travelers, especially first-timers, fall into common traps that could cost them time, money, and peace of mind. To help you make the most of your island escape, here are the top 7 mistakes to avoid when booking an Andaman tour packages, along with pro tips to ensure a smooth and memorable journey.

1. Not Researching the Right Time to Visit

Booking a package without checking the best season can lead to disappointment. Andaman’s weather, especially during the monsoon (June to September), can be unpredictable. Many activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and boat rides are suspended during this period.

What to Do Instead: The ideal time to visit Andaman is between October and May, with the peak tourist season falling between December and March. The seas are calm, skies are clear, and all water activities are operational.

Pro Tip: If you want fewer crowds but good weather, aim for October–November or April–May.

2. Booking Packages Without Comparing Itineraries

All tour packages are not created equal. Some may include only surface-level sightseeing, while others dive deeper into experiences like scuba diving, sunset cruises, or tribal tours. Booking the first package you find might mean missing out on the real gems of Andaman.

What to Do Instead: Compare at least 3 to 5 tour packages from reputed travel providers. Look at inclusions like number of nights, accommodations, meals, activities, entry tickets, ferry transfers, and guide support.

Pro Tip: Prioritize packages that offer flexible customization, especially if you're a couple, family with kids, or adventure seeker.

3. Ignoring the Fine Print on Ferry Transfers and Permits

Ferries are the lifeline between islands in Andaman. Some packages do not include ferry transfers or book you into basic government ferries without informing you, which can affect your comfort and schedule.

What to Do Instead: Ensure your tour package includes confirmed ferry tickets in Andaman, preferably on Makruzz, Green Ocean, or ITT Majestic, which are faster and more comfortable. Also, confirm if permits to visit restricted areas like North Sentinel or Jolly Buoy are included (if relevant).

Pro Tip: Book tour packages at least 30–45 days in advance to secure premium ferry tickets, especially during peak season.

4. Choosing Accommodation Solely Based on Price

Budget travel is great, but booking extremely cheap accommodations might land you in places far from beaches, ferry terminals, or major attractions, leading to extra transport costs and inconvenience.

What to Do Instead: Balance price and location. Look for accommodations near Radhanagar Beach (Havelock), Govind Nagar, or Beach No. 5. In Port Blair, proximity to Cellular Jail, Aberdeen Bazaar, and the jetty is a plus.

Pro Tip: Some mid-range resorts offer free kayaking, snorkeling gear, or candlelight dinner options, giving you better value than budget hotels.

5. Overpacking or Packing the Wrong Essentials

Andaman is a beach and water-sport destination. Many travelers pack heavy or forget essentials like reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry clothes, or waterproof phone cases.

What to Do Instead: Check your tour itinerary and pack according to activities. Carry:

• Light cotton clothes

• Swimwear

• Flip-flops or water shoes

• Power bank

• Snorkeling gear (optional)

• Basic first-aid and motion sickness tablets

Pro Tip: If your tour includes trekking (like at Chidiya Tapu or Mount Harriet), carry good walking shoes and insect repellent.

6. Not Clarifying Inclusions and Exclusions Clearly

Many travelers assume their Andaman tour package is “all-inclusive” only to find out on arrival that water sports, museum entries, or even meals were excluded.

What to Do Instead: Before booking, request a detailed list of inclusions and exclusions. Ask specifically about:

• Entry fees to attractions

• Guide services

• Airport pickup/drop

• Activity charges

• Meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner)

• Applicable GST or hidden service charges

Pro Tip: A transparent travel operator will provide this information upfront and may offer bundled discounts on water activities when booked with the package.

7. Underestimating Travel Time Between Islands

Many travelers book hectic packages that cover Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island in just 3 or 4 days, leaving little time to enjoy each destination.

What to Do Instead: Give yourself enough buffer. Ideally:

• 1 night in Port Blair on arrival

• 2–3 nights in Havelock Island

• 1–2 nights in Neil Island

• 1 final night in Port Blair before departure

Remember that ferry timings and weather conditions can affect transfers.

Pro Tip: Avoid booking early morning return flights from Port Blair if you're staying in Neil or Havelock the previous night. Delays in ferry transfers can cause you to miss flights.

Bonus Tips for Booking the Right Andaman Tour Package

To help you further avoid common pitfalls, here are a few extra insights:

Book with Verified and Experienced Operators

Look for tour providers with strong reviews on platforms like Google, TripAdvisor, or MakeMyTrip. Ask for:

• Local support numbers

• Emergency contact options

• Experienced guides

Customize Your Experience : Every traveler is different. Don’t settle for a generic plan. Whether you're into diving, romantic getaways, or island hopping, ask your tour provider to tweak the itinerary.

Don’t Skip Travel Insurance : Andaman is remote, and while it’s very safe, unexpected things can happen—flight cancellations, health emergencies, or bad weather. Travel insurance adds a layer of protection.

Final Thoughts

The Andaman Islands are a tropical treasure waiting to be explored—but smart planning is the key to unlocking their full beauty. Booking the right tour package can save you money, time, and stress, while enhancing every moment of your journey.

To recap, avoid these 7 common mistakes:

1. Booking in the wrong season

2. Not comparing itineraries

3. Ignoring ferry and permit details

4. Choosing accommodation based only on price

5. Packing poorly

6. Overlooking inclusion/exclusion details

7. Underestimating island transfer times

With the right package, your Andaman trip can be everything you imagined—and more.

Planning your trip now? Choose a customizable, all-inclusive Andaman tour package from reputed travel experts to make your island escape smooth and unforgettable.