I simply can’t imagine a better way to immerse yourself in the life of a region, to explore hidden corners and appreciate nuances while enjoying the benefits and enormous satisfaction of traveling under your own power. These are experiences you cannot have behind the wheel of a car, or on a train or a tour bus. Active travel is, at its heart, a way of connecting more authentically with the world. Sure, Backroads provides amazing leaders, superb accommodations and meals, and opportunities you could never arrange on your own. But all of our comprehensive planning and support is aimed at something far simpler: bringing you the immediate, highly personal satisfaction of discovering a new world on your own terms.
Tom Hale, Founder & President
Why Travel with Backroads
Backroads was founded in 1979 by Tom Hale and has been a leading innovator in active and adventure travel for over 40 years. The company offers biking, walking & hiking and multi-adventure tours, small ship active cruises, private trips and family trips designed for three distinct age groups: Teens & Kids (typically 9-16), Older Teens & 20s (17+) and 20s & Beyond (adult kids through their late 20s). Active travel is about journeying through a fascinating region under your own power.
Backroads hosts thousands of guests each year—75% of whom are repeat guests or referrals from past guests—in hundreds of locations across the globe and raising the bar that all such travel should aspire to. And while it may sound like boasting, we don’t think anyone does it better. Let us show you why. Herewith a link to a 3-minute video including guests experiences.
The Backroads Difference
From our Founder & President Tom Hale to the Trip Leaders on your adventure, everyone at Backroads is motivated first and foremost by our commitment to quality. When it comes to choosing an active travel company, values matter—these are ours.
8 Ways to Go Active
Something for everyone—give us your definition of active and we’ll deliver. We set the standard for on-trip support; our leaders, vans and equipment give you the flexibility you’re looking for. From easygoing to avid—all activity levels are welcome.
Ocean Cruises: Walking, Biking or Multi-Adventure
Experience classic Backroads active travel combined with the ease, relaxation and luxury of small ocean ships. It’s an exhilarating way to enjoy the best of both worlds—all around the world!
Nature lovers, picture yourself snowshoeing in Antarctica, kayaking in the realm of humpbacks in Alaska, swimming with sea lions in the Galapagos Islands or hiking a volcanic crater in Iceland. Rich culture awaits amid the tori gates and Shinto shrines of Japan and the castles and medieval towns of the Baltics. The perfect multi-adventure can be found in the island paradise of New Zealand, where stunning fjords, waterfalls and abundant native birdlife awaits.
River Cruises: Walking & Biking
Our active river cruises span the globe, featuring luxurious small ships and incredible biking & hiking in some of the world’s most beautiful places. Whether your interests lead you to castles along the Danube or colorful markets along the Mekong, you’re sure to love these river cruises, which give you the comfort, flexibility and convenience you need to enjoy an epic active adventure on and off the boat.
Only unpack once and enjoy the unmistakable magic of discovering your destination actively.
Herewith links to the Backroads trips in Europe; Asia & the Pacific; Africa; Middle East; Canada; South America; Caribbean; Central America and United States.
We look forward to hearing from you and helping you plan your ideal holiday – 021 434 9394