Intrepid Travel is set to offer more chances for travelers to engage in Indigenous experiences around the globe. Starting in 2023, the adventure travel company will expand its range to include more than 100 Indigenous excursions.
New tours include a visit to a Mayan family farm with a cooking demonstration in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, guided hikes in Utah’s national parks led by Native American guides, and camping at Kenya’s Tepesua Village. Here, travelers can listen to stories about Maasai warriors and learn about the village’s initiatives to improve education and healthcare access for women in the community.
“Our trips revolve around communities and people,” said Matt Berna, president of Intrepid Travel North America, in a statement to TripSavvy. “We aim to better understand local perspectives, support more community-based and First Nations experiences, and build strong industry connections. Elevating Indigenous culture through genuine experiences is key.”
Since launching its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in 2019, the Australia-based company has focused on raising awareness about colonialism, land dispossession, and racism, while strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous communities. In early 2022, Intrepid offered 52 Indigenous experiences in Australia and New Zealand—a 250 percent increase from 2020.
With these new excursions, Intrepid seeks to connect with First Nations groups beyond Australia and New Zealand, offering Indigenous experiences in diverse countries such as Kenya, Costa Rica, and the U.S.
“As travel continues to bridge cultural gaps and uncover hidden stories worldwide, it’s crucial not to overlook the original inhabitants,” said Sara King, general manager of purpose at Intrepid Travel. “Our mission has always been to transform how we view the world. Now, as our company expands and learns from others, our travelers can as well.”
