Our beginnings…
In 1988 a group of friends bounced across the Sahara in a converted tipper truck. Along the way two of them talked endlessly about creating a style of group travel that was out of the ordinary; a style of travel that would fully expose people to the good, the bad and the downright weird of the nations they traveled. Adventures that would have all the benefits of independent travel with none of the hassle; small groups traveling at the grassroots level, meeting local people, trying local food, staying anywhere and everywhere and traveling on anything that moved! Back in Australia, Geoff Manchester and Darrell Wade bought a second hand typewriter, borrowed a dining room table and Intrepid was born. Now, 22 years later, Intrepid takes around 100,000 travelers to over 100 countries worldwide, each and every year. We employ over 1000 staff and have offices throughout the globe. But, just as things have changed, Intrepid’s philosophy has stayed the same − to provide the best value small group adventures in the world.

Our style…
Intrepid is for those with a yearning for adventure, a sense of fun and a wish to escape the humdrum of mainstream tourism. We take the rough with the smooth, have a respect for local cultures and environments and a flexible, relaxed approach that benefits our international travelers of all ages.

Our core values…
We act with integrity – We are passionate about what we do We encourage personal growth –   We have fun – We are creative and innovative -  We believe in responsible travel

Our beliefs…
Wherever we go in the world, we take a responsible attitude with us. We mostly take public transport, stay and eat in small-scale, locally-owned establishments, travel in small groups, and spread the word about sustainable tourism wherever possible. Every year we evaluate each trip to ensure its compliance with our Responsible Travel Code of Conduct. Taking these small steps, we’re able to make a big difference. And that goes for the whole trip experience too. Our travelers get the chance to meet local people and really get to know their culture first hand. They contribute directly to local economies and help develop cross-cultural understanding; in other words, Intrepid travelers enjoy real life experiences. To ensure that our operations and the potential impact they may have are in keeping with this philosophy, we employ a full time Responsible Travel Manager, Jane Crouch and a Social Responsibility & Sustainability Manager, Jelina Mitrovic. Their job is to monitor our current practices, develop sustainable tourism programs and expand our corporate social responsibility so that we can all enjoy traveling for many years to come. In 2008, Intrepid Travel announced that it would test carbon offsetting on 38 key trips. In 2010, Intrepid Travel carbon offset all the trips it operates and became a carbon neutral company.

The best value journeys on the planet! On a Basic trip you can expect amazing experiences, but none of the inclusions that you may not want. Which means budget (1-2 star) accommodation, plenty of free time, activities that are optional and the freedom to choose meals to suit your budget. On some trips you may be camping and required to set up your own tent. You’ll also have access to a group leader to offer advice and help you uncover the region’s hidden gems. On a Basic journey, the way you travel is all a part of the adventure. Depending on the destination and the itinerary, you could find yourself traveling on anything from a donkey to a bus or a private safari vehicle. These trips are ideal for first-time travelers seeking fun and independence with the support of a group leader. They’re also ideal for independent travelers looking to make the most of their travel time with minimum hassle and maximum experiences.

Original trips are classic Intrepid adventures. With a mix of included activities and free time, they offer plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace and take part in activities that really get beneath the skin of a destination. While the occasional meal may be included, you’ll have the freedom to seek out your own culinary adventures.

Accommodation is generally budget or tourist class (2-3 star), but you’re as likely to find yourself as a guest of a local family as staying in a hotel or camping. Transport will vary as well. Depending on the destination and the itinerary you could find yourself traveling on anything from a camel to a train or a private safari vehicle. It’s all a part of the adventure! Original travelers have a desire to make the most of their travel time and really get to know a place, its people and cultures.

Comfort is your style of travel if you want the whole grassroots experience with more inclusions, meals and creature comforts. While accommodation is predominantly tourist class (3-4 star), on some itineraries there is the opportunity to stay with a local family, spend the night on a train or camp out in exotic places (without putting up your own tent of course). Along the way, you’ll really experience the destination up close. You’ll mingle with locals, enjoy a taste of their way of life and gain special insights from your leader. This is not luxury travel, but real world experiences – just with a softer landing!