Adventure travel companies in the US focus on creating engaging and immersive experiences for travelers seeking outdoor and cultural engagement. These companies specialize in various activities ranging from hiking and cycling to cultural tours and wildlife adventures. Trends suggest an increased demand for sustainable practices and personalized itineraries as travelers prioritize unique experiences and environmental responsibility. A growing number of travelers are also looking for more intimate and less commercial experiences, indicating a shift toward small group tours and local guide expertise. Innovations in travel technology are further shaping the industry, introducing new opportunities for travel planning and engagement.

The adventure travel companies listed here range widely in size and specialization. From established firms like Backroads and Grand Circle Corporation—with thousands of employees— to smaller, family-owned businesses like Himalayan Glacier and OARS, these firms emphasize tailored experiences in various outdoor settings. Many have been around since the late 20th century, showcasing their resilience and adaptability in an evolving market. The companies are headquartered variously across the US, with significant concentrations in California and Massachusetts, offering activities from cycling tours and rafting to guided hikes and immersive cultural trips.

Read on to discover the top adventure travel companies in the US.

Top 15 Adventure Travel Companies in the US

1. Backroads

• Website: backroads.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 64%, France 11%, Canada 9%, Other 16%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: backroads

Backroads, based in Berkeley, California, is a private travel agency that has been operating since 1979. The company specializes in active adventure travel, offering a variety of biking, hiking, and multi-adventure tours across numerous destinations worldwide. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, Backroads has built a reputation for providing well-organized trips that focus on unique outdoor experiences and cultural immersion. Their tours are designed for different activity levels, catering to a broad audience, including families and solo travelers. Backroads has a strong presence in the industry, leveraging over four decades of experience to craft memorable adventures for their clients. They have not reported any funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial backing.

2. Grand Circle Corporation

• Website: oattravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 45%, Croatia 13%, Italy 12%, Other 30%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: grand-circle-corporation

Grand Circle Corporation, founded in 1978 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, operates as a private travel agency under the brand Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.). The company is dedicated to providing adventure travel experiences that prioritize cultural immersion and personalized itineraries. With a workforce of approximately 1,924 employees, O.A.T. offers a variety of guided tours and travel packages to destinations worldwide, focusing on small group travel to enhance the traveler experience. Their offerings include land adventures and small ship cruises, with a strong emphasis on unique experiences that connect travelers with local cultures. The company has a significant presence in the adventure travel industry, catering to individual travelers who seek enriching and immersive experiences. O.A.T. has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial backing.

3. Himalayan Glacier

• Website: himalayanglacier.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Baltimore, Maryland, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Nepal 61%, United States (USA) 39%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: himalayan-glacier

Himalayan Glacier is a family-owned travel agency based in Baltimore, Maryland, specializing in adventure tourism since its inception in 1992. The company offers a wide range of travel experiences, including trekking, climbing, and cultural tours in iconic destinations such as Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. With a workforce that is predominantly based in Nepal, Himalayan Glacier emphasizes authentic experiences led by local guides, ensuring that travelers receive insights into the culture and environment of the regions they explore. The company prides itself on its safety protocols and boasts a high success rate for its adventure activities. Their offerings include private and group tours, catering to various travel styles, from luxury to eco-friendly adventures. Himalayan Glacier has built a reputation for quality service and customer satisfaction, making it a notable player in the adventure travel sector.

4. Quark Expeditions

• Website: quarkexpeditions.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Canada 49%, Antarctica 23%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, Other 21%
• Latest funding: $13.6M, May 2007
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: quark-expeditions

Quark Expeditions, based in Seattle, Washington, is a travel company that specializes in expeditions to the polar regions. Founded in 1991, it has played a significant role in the adventure travel sector, particularly in the Arctic and Antarctic. The company offers a variety of adventure travel options, including cruises and guided tours, catering to travelers looking for unique experiences in some of the world's most remote and pristine environments. Quark Expeditions is known for its innovative itineraries and a wide range of adventure activities, such as sea kayaking, polar camping, and helicopter-supported excursions. The company operates a fleet of small, ice-strengthened ships designed for polar exploration, allowing access to areas that larger vessels cannot reach. Quark Expeditions is also committed to sustainability, actively promoting environmentally responsible tourism practices to protect the delicate ecosystems they visit. With a dedicated team of experienced expedition leaders and a focus on providing enriching travel experiences, Quark Expeditions has established itself as a notable player in the adventure travel industry.

5. UnCruise Adventures Small Ship Cruising

• Website: uncruise.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Mexico 2%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: un-cruise-adventures

UnCruise Adventures Small Ship Cruising, founded in 1996 and based in Seattle, Washington, is a private adventure cruise line that specializes in small group tours and expedition voyages. The company focuses on providing immersive travel experiences, particularly in stunning natural settings such as Alaska and the Galápagos Islands. Their itineraries include activities like kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing, allowing travelers to engage deeply with the environment. UnCruise is known for its commitment to high-quality service, offering gourmet meals and personalized adventures. The company operates a fleet of small ships designed to navigate remote areas, ensuring access to unique destinations that larger vessels cannot reach. With a dedicated team and a strong emphasis on sustainability and community impact, UnCruise continues to be a relevant player in the adventure travel sector.

6. Wilderness Travel

• Website: wildernesstravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, Ecuador 10%, Iceland 4%, Other 11%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: wilderness-travel

Wilderness Travel, based in Berkeley, California, is a private travel agency that specializes in adventure travel and cultural experiences. Established in 1978, the company has been crafting unique itineraries that cater to travelers seeking authentic and immersive journeys. With a team of knowledgeable trip leaders, Wilderness Travel offers a variety of trips that include hiking, safaris, and cultural tours across more than 80 countries. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their meticulous itinerary design, which balances adventure with cultural exploration. The company has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple awards for being one of the best tour operators in the world. They also emphasize sustainable travel practices, contributing to local communities and conservation efforts in the regions they visit. This dedication to responsible tourism enhances their reputation in the adventure travel industry.

7. Contiki

• Website: contiki.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cypress, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 45%, Australia 17%, Greece 8%, Other 31%
• Founded year: 1962
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: contiki-holidays

Contiki, founded in 1962 and based in Cypress, California, is a private travel company that specializes in tours for young adults aged 18 to 35. With a workforce of approximately 322 employees, the company operates over 350 tours across more than 75 countries, focusing on creating social and adventurous travel opportunities. Contiki's offerings include a variety of travel styles, such as wellness trips and culturally immersive experiences, designed to engage and inspire young travelers. The company emphasizes the importance of community and shared experiences, providing travelers with the chance to connect with like-minded individuals. Contiki is part of the TTC family of brands, which enhances its credibility and reach within the travel industry. Their commitment to sustainable travel practices is evident through their initiatives aimed at minimizing environmental impact and promoting responsible tourism.

8. MT Sobek

• Website: mtsobek.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Emeryville, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Italy 5%, Chile 5%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mt-sobek

MT Sobek, founded in 1969 and based in Emeryville, California, is a private adventure travel company that specializes in guided tours and immersive experiences around the globe. With a dedicated team of expert guides, MT Sobek offers a variety of activities, including hiking, wildlife safaris, and cultural discovery tours. The company has built a reputation for providing enriching travel experiences, ensuring safety and engagement for its customers. Their extensive portfolio includes trips to destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond. MT Sobek has been recognized as a top adventure travel company by readers of USA Today and Newsweek, reflecting its standing in the industry. The company operates without reported funding, indicating a stable business model that has sustained its operations for decades.

9. Natural Habitat Adventures

• Website: nathab.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boulder, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, Canada 5%, Kenya 4%, Other 15%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: natural-habitat-adventures

Natural Habitat Adventures, based in Boulder, Colorado, is a private travel agency specializing in adventure travel and nature tours. Founded in 1985, the company has built a reputation for providing unique wildlife-focused travel experiences that cater to nature enthusiasts. With a team of approximately 187 employees, they emphasize sustainable travel practices and actively partner with conservation organizations, notably the World Wildlife Fund. This collaboration has allowed them to contribute over $10 million to global conservation efforts. Their offerings include a wide array of trips, such as polar bear tours in Churchill, African safaris, and explorations of the Galapagos Islands. Natural Habitat Adventures is dedicated to creating meaningful travel experiences that not only connect travelers with nature but also support the protection of wildlife and their habitats.

10. Off the Beaten Path Travel

• Website: offthebeatenpath.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Bozeman, Montana, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: March 2021
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: off-the-beaten-path-travel

Off the Beaten Path Travel, based in Bozeman, Montana, is a travel agency that has been crafting active outdoor journeys and immersive travel experiences since its founding in 1986. With a team of 36 employees, the company focuses on providing unique and authentic travel options, including private custom journeys and small group adventures. Their expertise spans nearly 20 travel destinations worldwide, emphasizing regional depth and local connections. Off the Beaten Path Travel prides itself on its ability to connect travelers to the heart of their destinations, offering experiences that are spirited, meaningful, and unforgettable. The company has built a reputation for its commitment to responsible travel and cultural immersion, making it a notable player in the adventure travel sector.

11. Trek Travel

• Website: trektravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Madison, Wisconsin, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, Spain 13%, Italy 4%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: trek-travel

Trek Travel, founded in 2003 and based in Madison, Wisconsin, is a private travel agency that specializes in active travel experiences. The company offers a range of cycling and hiking vacations across multiple destinations, including Europe, North America, South America, and Asia Pacific. Trek Travel provides both guided and self-guided tours, ensuring that customers can enjoy memorable adventures while exploring different cultures. With a workforce of approximately 187 employees, the company has a significant presence in the industry, particularly in the United States, where 78% of its employees are located. Trek Travel is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction, offering expertly designed trips that cater to various activity levels and preferences. Their mission is to enrich lives through active travel, delivering experiences that leave a lasting impact on their guests.

12. OARS Companies, Inc.

• Website: oars.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Angels Camp, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: oars

OARS Companies, Inc., based in Angels Camp, California, is a family-owned adventure travel company that has been operating since 1969. Specializing in whitewater rafting and outdoor experiences, OARS provides guided trips for individuals, families, and groups. Their offerings include multi-day and day trips across numerous destinations, including iconic locations like the Grand Canyon and Patagonia. The company emphasizes customer service, maintaining a low guest-to-guide ratio to ensure personalized attention. OARS is also committed to responsible travel practices, focusing on environmental sustainability and community engagement. With a dedicated team of experienced guides, OARS has built a loyal customer base, with a significant percentage of travelers returning for additional adventures.

13. The Travel Corporation

• Website: ttc.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Cypress, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 33%, United States (USA) 15%, Canada 15%, Other 37%
• Latest funding: July 2024
• Founded year: 1920
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: the-travel-corporation

The Travel Corporation, founded in 1920 and based in Cypress, California, is a private equity-owned travel agency that specializes in creating immersive travel experiences. With a workforce of approximately 1972 employees, the company operates globally, offering guided tours, luxury travel, and tailor-made services. TTC is dedicated to providing authentic cultural experiences that connect travelers with local communities. Their portfolio includes various travel styles, including adventure travel, which highlights their commitment to engaging and active experiences. The company also emphasizes sustainability through its TreadRight Foundation, which supports initiatives aimed at protecting the planet, people, and wildlife. This focus on responsible travel further enhances their appeal in the adventure travel sector, as they strive to make a positive impact on the destinations they visit.

14. VBT Bicycling Vacations

• Website: vbt.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Williston, Vermont, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 42%, Italy 21%, Netherlands 7%, Other 30%
• Latest funding: February 2013
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: vbt-bicycling-vacations

VBT Bicycling Vacations, based in Williston, Vermont, is a travel agency that specializes in biking tours around the world. Founded in 1971, the company has built a reputation for offering guided, bike and boat, and self-guided biking experiences. Their tours cater to travelers looking for active and immersive vacation options, allowing them to explore new locations while enjoying the outdoors. VBT's offerings span multiple continents, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, showcasing their commitment to providing varied biking experiences. The company employs a team of knowledgeable trip leaders who enhance the travel experience by sharing insights into local culture and history. VBT has not reported any recent funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model that has persisted for over five decades.

15. Geographic Expeditions (GeoEx)

• Website: geoex.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Indianapolis, Indiana, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, United Kingdom (UK) 9%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: geographic-expeditions

Geographic Expeditions (GeoEx) is a private travel agency based in Indianapolis, Indiana, specializing in luxury adventure travel and expeditions. Established in 1982, GeoEx has nearly four decades of experience in crafting unique itineraries that span a wide array of global destinations. The company is known for its personalized trip planning services, which cater to travelers looking for immersive cultural experiences. GeoEx emphasizes responsible travel practices, ensuring that their adventures benefit local communities and preserve the integrity of the environments they explore. Their offerings include group travel, custom trips, and exclusive premier access options, allowing clients to choose the level of adventure that suits their preferences. The company has received recognition in notable travel awards, further solidifying its reputation in the industry. With a dedicated team and a commitment to sustainability, GeoEx continues to be a significant player in the adventure travel sector.

Adventure Travel Insights: Key Companies in the US

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