I'm not wealthy either and understand what you are saying. I have been out with non photographers before (not a tour) and trying to take the time to get a good photo using your tripod is a problem;
Just registered here. Have been reading for awhile. My feeling on this topic is DO NOT go on a tour. Go on a 'photo tour'. There is a vast difference. I go on photo tours only as photography is my main purposes. Plenty of time to set up and photograph from your tripod. The guides are photographers themselves and get you to the good locations at the right time of day/best light, etc. Best of luck;