United by a powerful belief in the ability of travel to create inspiring, life-changing moments, Active Adventures (HQ in Queenstown, New Zealand) and Austin Adventures (HQ in Montana, USA) have merged to create a world of opportunities for global travellers.

The merger will enable more adventure travellers to benefit from a wider range of global destinations and experiences. Both brands specialise in small group adventure trips, off the beaten path, with a personal touch. 

“Travel today is not just about choosing a destination. Now more than ever, it’s about how we travel,” says Wendy van Lieshout, CEO of the new merger.

“It’s about precious time together - creating lifetime memories, being inspired and connecting with the people and environment around us. It’s about feeling you can trust the company you are on that journey with – that all the little details will be taken care of to create the best experience possible.”  

“To expand our offerings to our loyal customers, it was critical we find a like-minded brand to join forces with. Just like us, Austin Adventures was borne out of a deep passion for sharing authentic, curated and inspirational adventure experiences with their guests.” 

What does the merger mean for travellers? More choice of destinations, dates and trip styles:

• 100+ adventure trips available across the globe
• more dates of departures available throughout the year
• more life-changing experiences – to be able to share with family & friends!
• two customer service teams in different time zones which means we are open for extended hours to help adventurers find the best trip to suit them

Each brand has its own specialities and experiences to create an expanded collection of adventure opportunities across the globe. Now, Austin Adventures’ tours will be available for booking on Active Adventures’ website, adding a huge range of adventures in the USA, Canada and Central America, including specific family departures.  And Active Adventures’ unique hiking, biking, and kayaking experiences in New Zealand, South America, Europe, the Himalayas, and Africa will be available via the Austin Adventures’ website.  

According to Dan Austin, founder of Austin Adventures, the homework has been done to make sure the match was a natural fit and would create new opportunities for each other’s loyal guests. “We were created in different countries, yet our companies have very similar stories. Each business is like a family – now we’ve just created one bigger family!”

Shared features:

• Incredible local guides who have in-depth knowledge of every destination and years (if not decades) of experience
• Small group sizes - average of 12-18 travellers per trip with two guides.
• One-of-a-kind experiences, away from the crowds
• All-inclusive, multi-day, fully guided, multi-activity adventures in the most stunning adventure travel destinations around the world
• Authentic, personalised service - taking care of every detail, so guests can just relax and enjoy their holiday
• Hand-picked accommodation in amazing locations
• Great food is part of the adventure and experience

The two brands have come together as one global team across New Zealand and the USA, with operational bases around the globe.