Intrepid Travel –

Of the large tour companies, Intrepid Travel is one of the few that specializes in affordable, no-frills small group tours for more independent travelers. Based in Melbourne, Australia, they offer everything from African safaris and cycling tours, to sailing trips and mountain trekking adventures. Intrepid’s small group style of travel – with an average of 10 travelers per trip – allows you stay under the radar and experience each destination more like a local. These trips get travelers closer to real life, while still offering the safety of a group and the knowledge of an expert local guide.

Intrepid’s themed trips include Culinary tours, Wildlife tours, Polar Expeditions, Family tours, Trekking tours, Overland tours, and a variety of Sailing trips. Intrepid is also committed to responsible travel and even offers a number of fundraising trips on behalf of The Intrepid Foundation, a not-for-profit company assisting NGOs.

Depending on your budget, you can choose from three comfort levels or styles of travel: Basix, Original and Comfort. For budget-minded people who like to explore on their own, Basix trips may be a good bet.  These trips include budget accommodations, transportation and a local guide, but not much else. They don’t include meals or exclusive sightseeing excursions and performances. While extremely reasonable, Basix trips are not for everyone, since accommodations often include hostels, tents, shared apartments, and even shared bathrooms. Travel is usually on public transportation and the trip fee doesn’t include daily guided sightseeing excursions – your pretty much on your own. Original trips are a better choice for those after a good mix of included activities and free time to exploring on your own. Original trips use well-located, tourist-class hotels and include some meals. Their Comfort trips offer an added degree of comfort, a more relaxed pace of travel, nicer accommodations, more included activities and many meals along the way.