Welcome to Intrepid Travel, where adventure meets purpose. We are a collective of passionate explorers, dedicated to crafting authentic travel experiences that not only satisfy your wanderlust but also contribute positively to the world. Our mission is to change the way people see the world by offering sustainable, immersive journeys that foster genuine connections with local cultures and environments.
Our Story
Founded over three decades ago, Intrepid Travel began with a simple yet profound idea: to create small group adventures that allow travelers to experience the world in an authentic and responsible manner. Our founders envisioned a style of travel that goes beyond the typical tourist trails, delving deep into the heart of each destination. Today, we have grown into a global company, offering more than 2,700 trips across over 120 countries and all seven continents. Despite our growth, our core philosophy remains unchanged: to provide real-life experiences that benefit both our travelers and the places we visit.
Our Philosophy
At Intrepid Travel, we believe that travel should be a force for good. This belief is embedded in every aspect of our operations. We are committed to responsible travel, which means respecting local cultures, supporting local economies, and minimizing our environmental impact. Our small group sizes, typically ranging from 12 to 14 people, allow us to travel responsibly and access places that larger groups cannot. This approach ensures that our travelers have meaningful interactions with local communities and leave a positive footprint wherever they go.
Our Commitment to Responsible Travel
We are proud to be a certified B Corporation, meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. This certification reflects our dedication to using business as a force for good. Our commitment to responsible travel is evident in various initiatives:
- Carbon Neutral Travel: Since 2010, we have been a carbon-neutral company. We offset the carbon emissions from our trips and offices by investing in renewable energy projects and other initiatives that reduce greenhouse gases.
- Animal Welfare: We have a strict animal welfare policy to ensure that all wildlife experiences on our trips are ethical and responsible. We do not offer activities that involve riding elephants, and we support organizations that protect endangered species.
- Child Welfare: We are committed to protecting children in the destinations we visit. We do not support or promote visits to orphanages, and we educate our travelers on the importance of child protection.
- Community-Based Tourism: We collaborate with local communities to develop tourism experiences that provide economic benefits and preserve cultural heritage. This collaboration ensures that tourism has a positive impact on local livelihoods.
Our Travel Styles
We understand that every traveler is unique, and so are their travel preferences. To cater to diverse interests, we offer various travel styles:
- Basix: For travelers seeking affordable adventures with plenty of free time to explore independently.
- Original: Our classic style, offering a balance between included activities and free time, with standard accommodations.
- Comfort: For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, with comfortable accommodations and more inclusions.
Each travel style is designed to provide authentic experiences while accommodating different comfort levels and budgets.
Our Destinations
With trips in over 120 countries, we offer a vast array of destinations to explore. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling markets of Morocco, the serene landscapes of Vietnam, or the ancient wonders of Egypt, we have an adventure waiting for you. Our top destinations include:
- Vietnam: Experience the rich history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine of Vietnam. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers a diverse range of experiences.
- Morocco: Immerse yourself in the sensory delights of Morocco, from the vibrant souks of Marrakech to the stunning landscapes of the Sahara Desert. Discover the rich history and culture that make this country unique.
- Peru: Embark on a journey to the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, explore the lush Amazon rainforest, and experience the vibrant culture of Peru. This destination offers a blend of history, nature, and adventure.
- Egypt: Delve into the mysteries of ancient Egypt with visits to the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the temples of Luxor. A cruise along the Nile River offers a unique perspective on this historic land.
- Sri Lanka: Discover the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Sri Lanka, from its pristine beaches to its lush tea plantations and ancient temples.
- Cuba: Experience the vibrant music, colorful architecture, and rich history of Cuba. From the lively streets of Havana to the scenic countryside of Viñales, Cuba offers a unique travel experience.
- Cambodia: Explore the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, learn about the country’s history in Phnom Penh, and experience the warmth of Cambodian hospitality.
- Jordan: Discover the ancient city of Petra, float in the Dead Sea, and explore the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum in Jordan.
- Australia: From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the Outback, Australia offers a diverse range of experiences.
These are just a few of the many destinations we offer. Each trip is designed to provide authentic experiences that connect you with the local culture and environment.
Our Experiences
Our trips are filled with unique experiences that allow you to connect with the destination on a deeper level. Some of the experiences you can look forward to include:
- Culinary Adventures: Participate in cooking classes, visit local markets, and dine with local families to experience the authentic flavors of the destination.
- Cultural Immersion: Stay with local communities, participate in traditional ceremonies, and learn about local customs and traditions.
- Active Adventures: Hike, bike, or kayak through stunning landscapes, from trekking in the Himalayas to cycling through the vineyards of Tuscany.
- Wildlife Encounters: Observe wildlife in their natural habitats, from tracking gorillas in Uganda to snorkeling with sea turtles in the Galápagos Islands.
- Sailing Trips: Explore stunning coastlines and islands on our sailing adventures, from the Greek Islands to the Whitsundays in Australia.
Each experience is designed to provide a deeper understanding of the destination and create lasting memories.
Our Leaders
Our tour leaders are the heart and soul of our trips. They are local experts who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for their country with our travelers. Their insights and expertise provide a richer, more authentic travel experience. Whether it’s recommending the best local dishes, explaining cultural nuances, or guiding you off the beaten path, our leaders are dedicated to making your trip unforgettable.
Our Community
At Intrepid Travel, we believe in the power of community. This belief extends to our travelers, our staff, and the local communities we visit. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Our travelers come from all walks of life, and the shared experiences on our trips often lead to lasting friendships. We also support local communities through various initiatives, including:
- The Intrepid Foundation: Established in 2002, The Intrepid Foundation supports over 50 community-based projects around the world. Through traveler donations and company contributions, we have raised over AUD 10 million to support health care, education, human rights, child welfare, and environmental conservation initiatives.
- Community-Based Tourism: We work with local communities to develop tourism experiences that provide economic benefits and preserve cultural heritage. This collaboration ensures that tourism has a positive impact