Viator Rewards is simple on the surface — earn 5% back on eligible bookings — but the fine print determines how much value you actually keep. This guide explains how you earn, when you can redeem, what expires, and the rules that trip people up. Use it to squeeze the most from every tour or activity you book.
Viator Rewards at a Glance
| Feature | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Earn Rate | 5% back on eligible bookings when you’re signed in to your Viator account |
| When Rewards Post | Available ~24 hours after you complete the experience (not when you book) |
| Expiration | Rewards expire 180 days after they become available |
| Redemption Rule | You must redeem your full available balance in one go (no partial redemptions); at least $1 must be paid by card |
| Currency Lock | Rewards stay in the currency of your first qualifying booking (e.g., USD); bookings in other currencies won’t earn |
| Eligibility | Direct bookings on Viator’s site/app; most experiences qualify. Third-party/affiliate bookings don’t earn |
| Promo Codes | You typically can’t earn rewards on a booking where a promo code is applied — choose whichever saves more |
| Cancellations | If you cancel a rewards-paid booking and qualify for a refund, rewards usually return with a fresh 180-day clock |
How Earning Works
Create/sign in to your Viator account, book an eligible experience directly on Viator, and complete it. About 24 hours after the tour ends, your 5% reward becomes available to use on a future booking in the same currency.
Quick Math Examples
| Booking Amount | 5% Earned | When You Can Use It |
|---|---|---|
| $100 | $5 | ~24 hours after the tour completes |
| $250 | $12.50 | ~24 hours after the tour completes |
| $500 | $25 | ~24 hours after the tour completes |
| $1,000 | $50 | ~24 hours after the tour completes |
How Redemption Works
- All-in redemption: You must apply your full available rewards balance on your next eligible purchase; no partial use.
- $1 minimum payment: You’ll still need to pay at least $1 by card, even if rewards cover the rest.
- Currency matters: Rewards can be redeemed only in the currency where they were earned.
- Expiry buffer: Set a reminder ~150 days after rewards post so you don’t lose them at 180 days.
Rules & Edge Cases to Know
Promo Codes vs Rewards
You generally can’t stack promo codes with earning rewards on the same booking. Pick the option that gives the larger value today. If you expect to book again within six months, rewards can compound nicely; if not, a strong promo code may be better for that one-off purchase.
Third-Party Bookings Don’t Earn
Bookings made through other travel sites or affiliates won’t accrue Viator Rewards, even if the experience is listed on Viator. Start and finish the purchase on Viator’s site/app.
Cancellations & No-Shows
Uncompleted experiences don’t earn rewards. If you cancel within policy and receive a refund, applied rewards (if any) are typically returned with a new 180-day window.
Maximize Your Value
- Batch your plans: If you’ll book multiple activities in ~6 months, let rewards accumulate and then redeem them against a pricier tour.
- Stay in one currency: If you earned in USD, keep subsequent bookings in USD to continue earning.
- Use a travel card: Viator typically codes as “travel,” so you can earn credit-card points and Viator Rewards on the same purchase.
- Mind the clock: Add a calendar reminder so you don’t forfeit value at 180 days.
- Compare at checkout: If a high-value promo code is available, weigh it against your 5% earn (and your likelihood of rebooking soon).
Looking for immediate savings today? Check Groupon’s latest Viator discount codes and choose whichever nets more value on this booking.
Viator Rewards FAQs
What’s the Viator Rewards earn rate?
5% back on most eligible bookings when you’re signed in and book directly on Viator.
When do my rewards become available?
Roughly 24 hours after your experience ends. They’ll be visible in your account and usable on your next eligible purchase.
Do rewards expire?
Yes. They expire 180 days after becoming available. Set a reminder so you don’t lose them.
Can I split my rewards across multiple bookings?
No. You must apply your full balance in a single redemption, and you need to pay at least $1 by card.
Do promo codes affect rewards?
In most cases you can’t earn rewards on a booking where a promo code is used. Choose the higher-value option at checkout.
Bottom Line
Viator Rewards is best for travelers who book more than once within six months and keep bookings in the same currency. Use it to earn 5% back automatically, watch the 180-day clock, and redeem your full balance strategically. If a strong promo code beats 5% today and you won’t rebook soon, take the instant discount — otherwise, let rewards do their compounding work.
