Best Adventure Travel Companies for 2024

Choosing the "best" adventure travel company really comes down to what kind of adventure you're after, your budget, and how you like to travel. For most people seeking a well-organized, reasonably priced, and authentic experience, G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, and REI Adventures are consistently top contenders in 2024. They each excel in different areas, so your ideal choice will depend on your priorities.

Key takeaways:

• G Adventures offers value-driven, small-group tours with a focus on local interaction, often without single supplements.
• Intrepid Travel prioritizes sustainable tourism and immersive cultural experiences, with diverse itineraries globally.
• REI Adventures specializes in active, outdoor-focused trips like hiking and biking, leveraging REI's expertise.
• Consider trip cost, activity level, group size, and responsible travel policies when making your decision.

Which adventure travel company is best overall for group trips?

For a great balance of value, variety, and authentic experiences on group tours, G Adventures is often the top pick. They operate over 700 itineraries across all seven continents. Their focus on small groups, typically 10 to 16 people, allows for more immersive local interactions than larger bus tours.

One of their biggest draws is the "no single supplement" policy on most trips, making them incredibly popular with solo travelers. This means you don't pay extra for not having a travel partner. They're known for their Llama Trek in Peru, a 7-day trip that includes the Inca Trail, starting around $1,600. They also offer sailing trips in the Galapagos and safaris in Africa. The catch is, while generally budget-friendly, some of their accommodations can be more basic, reflecting the price point.

What if I want a more sustainable and immersive experience?

If responsible tourism and deep cultural immersion are your priorities, Intrepid Travel is an excellent choice. They are the world's largest B-Corp certified travel company, which means they meet high standards of social and environmental performance. They run over 1,000 trips in more than 100 countries.

Intrepid's trips often use local transport, stay in locally-owned accommodations, and support local businesses. They focus on minimizing environmental impact and maximizing benefits for local communities. Their small group sizes, usually 10 to 12 people, contribute to a less impactful footprint. For example, their 15-day Vietnam Real Food Adventure, which includes cooking classes and street food tours, starts around $2,500. While slightly pricier than G Adventures on average, you're paying for their strong ethical framework and genuine local encounters.

What if I'm looking for active, outdoor adventures?

For those whose idea of adventure involves hiking, biking, kayaking, or other physically active pursuits, REI Adventures stands out. Leveraging the outdoor retail co-op's expertise, they design trips that focus on exploring natural landscapes. They offer around 100 itineraries, primarily in North America but also internationally.

REI Adventures trips typically include all necessary gear, expert guides, and often a higher level of comfort in accommodations compared to some other adventure companies. Their group sizes are usually small, around 8 to 12 people, ensuring a more personalized experience. A popular option is their 6-day Hiking Yellowstone and Grand Teton trip, which often costs upwards of $3,500. The drawback is they are generally more expensive than G Adventures or Intrepid, reflecting the specialized nature and included gear.

Are there other highly-rated adventure travel companies worth considering?

Yes, several other companies excel in specific niches:

• Exodus Travels: Known for their diverse range of active trips, including walking, cycling, and cultural tours. They are well-regarded for their experienced leaders and cater to a slightly older demographic, often 30-60. A 10-day cycling trip in Tuscany might start around $2,000.
• National Geographic Expeditions: Offers premium, often educational, trips with a strong focus on wildlife, culture, and photography, led by experts. These are generally much more expensive, often starting from $5,000+ for a shorter trip, but provide unparalleled access and insights.
• Abercrombie & Kent: Specializes in luxury adventure travel, offering bespoke itineraries, private charters, and high-end accommodations. Expect prices to be significantly higher, often $10,000+ per person for a multi-day safari or expedition.

How do these top companies compare?

Here's a quick comparison of the three main contenders for general adventure travel:

Note: Prices are estimates for a 7-10 day trip, excluding international flights, and can vary widely based on destination and inclusions.

How do I choose the right adventure travel company for me?

To pick the best company, start by honestly assessing your own travel style and priorities:

1. Budget: How much are you willing to spend, excluding flights? G Adventures is usually your best bet for budget-conscious trips.
2. Activity Level: Are you looking for a relaxed cultural tour, moderate hikes, or extreme mountaineering? REI Adventures is great for active trips, while G Adventures and Intrepid have a range from mild to challenging.
3. Group Size: Do you prefer smaller, more intimate groups (Intrepid, REI) or are you okay with slightly larger ones (G Adventures)?
4. Destination and Trip Type: Do you want to trek the Himalayas, explore ancient ruins, or go on a wildlife safari? Check which companies specialize in your desired region or activity.
5. Accommodation Style: Are you okay with basic hostels and guesthouses, or do you prefer comfortable hotels? This heavily influences price and company choice.
6. Responsible Travel: How important is it that the company prioritizes sustainability and local community benefits? Intrepid Travel is a leader here.
7. Solo Travel: If you're going alone, look for companies with no single supplements or a strong solo traveler community, like G Adventures.

Don't just look at the overall company reputation. Dive into specific trip itineraries and read reviews for those particular tours. A company might be great for safaris but less so for cycling trips. Always check what's included and excluded in the price to avoid surprises. Flights, travel insurance, and sometimes even tips or some meals are often extra.

Photo by Arthur Edelmans on Unsplash