Frequently asked questions

Q: If we use the API, how do suppliers control the inventory available to Viator?

A: Suppliers retain control of the inventory they expose to Viator. The API simply replaces the manual work of inserting bookings into your system and providing blockout information to Viator. Suppliers still control the inventory that they want to sell to Viator.


Q: Does the API contain pricing and payment information?

A: Viator is the credit card merchant of record for all transactions – no payment information needs to be processed by the supplier or supplier’s system. We do not send credit card information via the API. The supplier net rate and pricing information is stored on Viator's side and can be updated via the Batch Availability and Pricing API; or, through the regular process of updating the Schedule and prices tab in the Supplier Extranet.


Q: How can non-Viator suppliers use the Viator API?

A: If you have suppliers that are not working with Viator today, please refer them to the Supplier Sign Up link on Viator.com. The Viator API will only work with current Viator suppliers, but we are always looking for new and exciting products to offer.


Q: How do we map our internal product codes to Viator’s product codes?

A: At the commencement of the project, Viator will provide a list of the supplier's products and product options. Together, we can then define a mapping approach between Viator's and the supplier's systems. This is a critical part of the project, as we need to ensure that the mapping values correctly identify the variables that have an inventory concern.

Mapping is carried out either by the supplier or the administrator of the reservation system. Viator's mapping feature is available via the Supplier Extranet. The mapping wizard utilizes data from the Tour List and Batch Availability endpoints.


Q: Our test system does not have public endpoints - how can we test with your API Test Harness?

A: The source code for the test harness can be downloaded from the following URL: Viator API Test Harness Source. It can then be deployed on an Apache Server configured with PHP at your development site. No back-end database is required.