Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ

What’s your deal?

My name is Morgan, and I’m a superfan of the Efteling! I’m a dual citizen of the US and the Netherlands, born and raised in Louisiana. I moved to Amsterdam in 2012 and was one of the lucky newcomers who discovered the Efteling in the first few months of my time here.

I have over 10 years of experience working in tourism, most notably at friend-of-the-show Those Dam Boat Guys, and I’ve traveled to over 50 countries myself.

I bring people together for small-group and private guided trips to the Efteling designed to be playful, social, and stress-free. I act as your local friend who handles the logistics and guides you through the park, so you can simply enjoy the magic!

What if the weather is particularly Dutch during our tour?

This may surprise you, but some of the best days I’ve ever spent at the Efteling were those with the worst weather. Rain can be an advantage (as long as you’re dressed for it!), because it often means fewer crowds. The attractions are built to withstand the fickle Dutch climate, and the Dutch are masters of designing cozy sanctuaries to flee to when necessary. Lucky for you, I’ve got all the best spots memorized if the weather gets biblical, or if you happen to be here during a rare heat wave. Come rain, shine, or hail, I’ve always got a plan!

Still, I recommend bringing at least a rain-resistant coat or small umbrella regardless of the weather forecast. Ponchos are also sold in the park at a reasonable price. If you’re feeling hard core, you can even pick up some rain pants at stores like Hema and Decathlon. 

How much walking is involved during a tour?

The Efteling is a decent-sized park, so quite a lot! In my experience, you can expect about 15,000-20,000 steps over the course of the day. But don’t worry— we move at a relaxed pace and take plenty of breaks. You don’t need to be in amazing shape!

If your mobility or energy level is a concern, please reach out so we can discuss private tour options.

How can I book a tour?

To join a small group tour, please click HERE.

To book a private tour, please fill in my CONTACT FORM, and I’ll reply as soon as I can!

What’s the best way to contact you?

You’ll get the fastest responses by contacting me via Email and Whatsapp. I’m available on Whatsapp from Monday - Friday 9:00-17:00.

What’s the worst way to contact you?

Via DMs on my socials. You’d have better luck calling my mom’s landline. 

I’m trying to book online but forgot how to use the internet. Is there another way I can reserve a spot on your tour?

If there are still spots available on a tour but you can’t seem to book one, please contact me by phone or email. I’ll do my best to work it out, most likely by sending you a payment link directly. On extremely special occasions, I can accept your payment in person with my portable card reader. 

What is the tone of your tours? In what ways are they similar or different to traditional tours?

I personally tend to zone out quite a lot during traditional, scripted tours. Don’t you?

A Joysauce tour is all about feeling like a kid again. I’ll take you on a relaxed yet efficient route through the park, hitting all the iconic attractions and skipping the, well, skippable ones. I’ll also cover a brief history of the park and never miss an opportunity to point out something quirky, beautiful, or downright bizarre. I encourage a lot of questions and lively discussions– your active participation is highly valued! The best tours end with us feeling like friends. 

For my Dutch Language Immersion Tours– all of the above is still true, with the added emphasis on encouraging you to speak Dutch all day in a variety of new situations and a unique setting.

Why should I join a trip? Can’t I go by myself?

Sure, you can go almost anywhere by yourself ;)  But coming with me is a much more relaxed, efficient, and FUN way to visit the Efteling!

Navigating the Efteling can be very confusing for first-time visitors. Having a strategy in place is key, and that’s where I excel! I’ve also been told my enthusiasm and passion for the park is contagious. Going with me guarantees you more magic, efficiency, and gezelligheid (Dutch word for warm, fuzzy, social coziness). 

I handle all the planning and logistics, so there’s no need for you to waste your time zigzagging, checking wait times, or frantically searching for food or bathrooms. I’m also there to provide cultural insights and history, as well as point out hidden details that you’d otherwise miss.

Will you be the one guiding us in person?
Hell yeah! You think I’m going to pass up a trip to the Efteling?!

If I choose to expand Joysauce one day and recruit some equally passionate guides to work with me, I’ll make that clear on my website. For now, it’s all me!

What should I wear and bring for a day at the Efteling?

Bring all the clothes you own. No, but really— layers and a raincoat or poncho are highly recommended, especially if you enjoy splash rides. I’d also say the following are must-haves: Good walking shoes, sunscreen, snacks, and a refillable water bottle.

Hilarious note: Efteling T&C’s state that if your clothing is considered offensive or could cause you to be mistaken for an Efteling entertainer or employee, they may deny you entry to the park. For that reason, I don’t allow guests on my tours who are wearing fairy tale-themed costumes, such as princesses, pirates, or knights.

I know, I know. I can feel your disappointment through the screen.

Ride & Joy- Private Tours

What can I expect from a private tour?
Unless otherwise specified, I’ll meet you at your accommodation in the morning, where a private vehicle will pick us up and transport us as a group to the Efteling. You’ll spend a full day there with me as your personal guide and planner. I’ll handle the pacing, timing, route, and ride strategy, and I’ll tailor the day to you — whether you're a thrill-seeker, a fairy tale lover, or visiting with kids. I can also help take photos, manage queues, and translate any signage or stories that are unclear to you. After 7-8 hours in the park, we’ll hop back into our private vehicle and be taken back to your accommodation. 

What’s included in a private trip?

Unless you request otherwise, a private trip with me includes:

  • Private roundtrip transportation between your accommodation and the Efteling

  • Efteling entrance tickets for everyone in your group, purchased for your convenience at cost with no mark-up 

  • A full day of park guidance by a native English speaker

What’s not included?

Food, drinks, and souvenirs are at your own expense. Compared to other theme parks around the world, these items at the Efteling are priced very reasonably. But you can still feel free to do it the Dutch way (many people do) and bring bring your own food and (non-alcoholic) drinks with you!

How long is the day?
Including transportation time, a full day trip will usually last 10-11 hours. Private transportation between Amsterdam and the Efteling typically takes 75-90 minutes one-way, and we spend 7-8 hours in the park together, depending on your preference and the park’s opening hours. If you prefer a shorter day, that’s absolutely fine too. Please let me know at booking, and I’ll be happy to custom design a trip for your preferences!

Who are these private trips for?

Most of my private tour clients value optimizing their day and are therefore looking for a smooth, elevated experience with none of the hassle. They may have limited time in the Netherlands, or live in NL themselves and have friends or family visiting. In some cases, they are under pressure to make someone’s day extra special, for a bachelor(ette) party, birthday celebration, or even a proposal!

While I sometimes work with families with kids, the majority of my private groups have actually been all adults, including some DINK couples. No matter your age or your reason for visiting the Efteling, I can tailor your tour to match your wishes!

How many people can we have in our group?

I typically provide private tours for groups of 1 to 6 people. This is primarily due to the size of the private vehicles used for our transportation. If your group is larger than 6, please contact me and we can discuss your options, such as booking 2 vehicles (please note that this will increase the price for the group).

What’s the difference between a private tour and a mixed/public group tour?

Private tours:

  • Include private transportation from your accommodation in Amsterdam, unless requested otherwise

  • It’s just you and your own crew

  • I custom design a route and plan that suits your group’s preferences. We’ll focus on whichever attractions, shows, and meals appeal most to you. Wanna ride the same roller coaster 3 times in a row? No problem! Hate dark rides? Let’s skip ‘em!

  • We can arrive at and leave the Efteling at whichever times work best for you. If you’re staying overnight and prefer to book me for less than a full day, or for multiple days, that can be arranged too! Just let me know via my contact form.

Public tours:

  • We meet at the entrance of the Efteling, so you’re responsible for your own transportation. If you need any guidance on taking Dutch public transportation, don’t hesitate to contact me on Whatsapp!

  • You book a spot in a group with strangers, aka friends you haven’t met yet ;)

  • I guide you through my optimized route and itinerary, which I’ve tested a gazillion times. We’ll cover the majority of the park and hit all the highlights, while skipping what most adults would deem skippable. You can always choose to sit out an attraction.

  • We all arrive at and leave the Efteling at the same time (though you can feel free to go home earlier if you wish!)


Ride & Joy- Small Group Public Tours

(English and Dutch Language Immersion)

Why should I join a small group trip (in English)?

I created these trips for expats and conscious travelers who want a fun, social day of exploring a wonderfully weird, off-the-beaten-path destination in the Netherlands. They’re perfect if you’re looking to:

  • Feel like a kid again (without actual kids present)

  • Meet other cool people in a fun, low-pressure setting

  • Enjoy the Efteling without overthinking or overplanning

  • Discover a quirky and cozy side of Dutch culture that the vast majority of expats have never experienced (but a whopping 94% of Dutchies have!)

Why should I join a Dutch Language Immersion Day?

I’ve been in your shoes. I know the many frustrations of trying to learn Dutch.

These trips are ideal if:

  • You’re an international resident of the Netherlands learning Dutch (A2 or above)

  • You want to practice speaking in a real, fun, low-pressure setting

  • You’re tired of people replying to your Dutch in English

  • You’re curious about an unexplored side of Dutch culture beyond windmills and tulips

  • You like the idea of learning through adventure and play

Are these tours guided the whole time?
Pretty much, but I build in breaks and free time for you to explore solo or with your (new) friends.

Can I book this with friends?
Yes! You’re welcome to sign up with friends or partners, or come solo and meet new people. 

How good does my Dutch need to be for the Dutch Immersion Tours?

You need to be able to speak and understand Dutch at least at an A2 level. No one is expecting you to speak perfectly— that’s what practice is for! However, please be prepared that we speak in Dutch the whole day.

This doesn’t mean you can’t substitute a word in English sometimes, or ask me for help if you can’t find the right words or grammar to express yourself. It DOES mean that I’ll be strict on switching to English or another language entirely. I’m not there to serve as a drill sergeant– I’m there to encourage you to keep trying and trust yourself that you can do this! This is meant to be fun, as well as challenging. 

Will my brain be tired after the Dutch Immersion Trip?

Maybe! In my experience, it's the satisfying kind of tired– the way you feel after a good workout, accomplishing a goal, or surprising yourself with how well you did! Many of my guests on these trips report feeling a sense of pride and empowerment afterwards.

I also build in more breaks on these trips, in which you can take some alone time or explore a bit without me.

What is included in your group tours and what’s not?

For small group tours in both English and Dutch, the following are included:

  • Full day guidance by a native English speaker (me)

  • Efteling entrance ticket

  • A Dutch treat (vegetarian and vegan-friendly)

  • Warm, social atmosphere and small group size (max 8 guests)

  • Icebreakers, cultural insights, and (for the Dutch Immersion Trips) fun language games

What’s Not Included:

  • Transportation

  • Other food and drinks

  • Souvenirs

If traveling by public transportation, do I need to purchase a ticket or Dutch transportation card?

No! Amazingly, the Netherlands has introduced contactless “tapping” payment for all public transportation. You can check in/out using contactless Mastercard/Visa credit cards, Maestro/V PAY debit cards, and mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Wallet.

Less Frequently Asked but still important Questions

Isn’t the Efteling mostly for kids?

I may be biased, but I would say an emphatic no! And I have worked with tons of adults who feel the same. Efteling is full of immersive design, stunning nature, thrilling rides, and theatrical storytelling — it’s truly for everyone. I help adults, couples, families, solo travelers, and friend groups create days that match their version of fun and enchantment.

I’m not a “theme park person.” Will I still enjoy a small group trip?

I would put my money on “yes,” provided that you appreciate beautiful scenery and enjoy getting to know new people! The Efteling isn’t just about rides or commercial characters — it’s a story-rich, nature-filled, artist-designed park that feels more like stepping into a forest than a theme park. Exploring this wonderfully weird place never fails to put a smile on my guests’ faces! 

It’s just the 2 of us. Do you offer private tours for couples?

Yes! I love designing private tours for couples. Whether you're proposing in front of the castle, celebrating a special anniversary, or just surprising your partner with a romantic date, I’ll make the day unforgettable.

Do I need to speak any Dutch?

For all of my services, with the obvious exception of the Dutch Language Immersion Trips, absolutely zero Dutch is required! I’ll be there to translate and explain the stories behind each attraction.

Are these trips family-friendly?

Some are, yes! My Ride & Joy Private Tours are suitable for all ages. My other small group trips, however, are adults only (18+).

How often do these trips happen?

Private trips can be scheduled anytime throughout the year! Please fill in my contact form with your preferred date(s) and I’ll get back to you shortly.

My Ride & Joy small group tours and Dutch Immersion tours run once or twice a month, usually in the weekend. I announce each trip in advance on Instagram. You can join my email list or follow me to hear about the next dates!

Which season should I book a trip with you?

The Efteling is open (and fantastic) year-round, and each season has its pros and (minor) cons. If you’re flexible, I always recommend choosing a day outside of Dutch school holiday breaks, which can be found here. If you’d like some advice on when to book, please contact me and I’ll be happy to help you choose! 

Will we be the only people there without kids?

Not at all! The Efteling has a strong following of childfree adults. My group trips are designed to feel like field trips for grown-ups— no kids required!

If I join a group trip, will you pressure me to go on every ride?

Nope! I’m not a sociopath. There are often 1 or 2 participants per group who choose to sit out certain rides. If you’re the only one, I’ll hang out with you while the others enjoy the ride.

Having said that, if you HATE rides, a small group tour is probably not the best option. If you and some friends want to book a Private Tour instead, I can cater the whole day to your wants and needs!

I’m traveling solo and not a huge fan of strangers. Can I book my own private tour?

Why not? I’ve done solo trips on my own to the Efteling, and trust me– it really is more fun with someone to share it with (or at least take great pics of you). With me, you’ll have a much richer experience and have someone to chat with, take photos for you, or give you space if that’s your vibe. You’ll enjoy a trip that’s 100% tailored to you, whether you love fairy tales, roller coasters, or sampling all the good snacks.

Are you affiliated with the Efteling?

No. Joysauce is an independent business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with Efteling B.V., the Efteling theme park, or any of its subsidiaries. See our T&C’s for more info.

Do you resell Efteling tickets?

No, I never resell Efteling tickets or mark up ticket prices. When you book a trip with me that includes park admission, I purchase your ticket on your behalf directly from the official Efteling website at face value. This is purely for your convenience. You are always welcome to buy your own ticket and simply book my guidance service separately.

What if my plans change after I’ve booked?

Please reach out to me as soon as possible and I will work with you to reschedule your trip or provide a full/partial refund. Please refer to my full Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy for more details.