Trips focused on active travel experiences such as hiking, cycling and wildlife-related activities are extremely popular with North American travelers. In fact, experiences are now the leading factor when choosing a destination, according to Skift, and the most popular motivations for traveling are new experiences, going off the beaten track and traveling like a local, according to the Adventure Travel Trade Association.
And Exodus Adventure Travels, a leader in the active travel segment for more than 50 years, reports that this summer’s top adventure destinations included the Dolomites, the Mont Blanc region in France, Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, Vietnam, Costa Rica, Morocco and Peru.
Following the company’s impressive double-digit growth this year, Sasha Andrews, director of industry sales for North America for Exodus, discussed with us why active travel continues to appeal to North Americans and which destinations clients may want to explore in 2025.
Adventure travel has always been popular with North Americans. Why do you think Exodus Adventure Travels’ growth this year was notably high?
Staying up to date with current trends and our guests' preferences continues to prove successful for the brand. As adventure travel continues to be popular among leisure travelers, our offerings are on target with more specific trends within the industry, such as authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations; conservation-focused wildlife experiences; and an increased interest in e-bikes.
What are the advantages of traveling in small groups for adventure experiences and activities?
Small groups minimize the environmental impact on delicate ecosystems, which is crucial for adventure travel. They also provide a more intimate and personalized experience where travelers can truly connect with the destination, their guide and their fellow adventurers. They also allow for flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, the option to adapt the itinerary based on the group's interests and pace and the guides’ ability to provide more focused attention during activities.
Travelers are always seeking exclusive or once-in-a-lifetime experiences. What are some unique opportunities you offer?
Exodus offers tours in 171 countries with itineraries created by destination experts, including former archeologists, wildlife guides, mountain leaders and diving specialists — ensuring every trip is meticulously planned and expertly led. Our dedication to sustainability and community sets up our guests for truly unique and fulfilling experiences, from discovering hidden gems in Cuba with local members of the Cuban Masters Road Cycling Club to playing a direct role in restoring Costa Rica's biodiversity through our Citizen Science Departures.
Exodus tour leaders are carefully selected for their knowledge and passion — often locals from the communities visited — and they provide unique insights into the culture and environment while also benefiting local communities.
Sasha Andrews, director of industry sales for North America for Exodus Adventure Travels
Credit: 2024 Exodus Adventure TravelsExodus has received its license to provide trips to Cuba. Can you tell us about the itineraries planned for that destination?
Exodus' itineraries (in compliance with Office of Foreign Assets Control regulations) are designed to showcase the authentic essence of Cuba, blending adventure, culture and history in ways that appeal to our travelers. Each eight- to 15-day itinerary is led by one of Exodus' expert local guides and provides opportunities to explore the island's rich heritage through immersive cultural experiences. From cooking classes to tours of Havana in classic Cuban cars, travelers can engage with local artisans, musicians and farmers, getting a firsthand glimpse into Cuban life.
Exodus’ current offerings in Cuba include Cuban Highlights Ride, Cycling Cuba, A Taste of Cuba and Cuba: La Isla Grande.
Can you speak to the responsible and sustainable travel opportunities Exodus provides?
Exodus allows travelers to uncover unique places around the world that many overlook. Exploring lesser known destinations is an impactful way we combat overtourism while allowing for meaningful cultural exchanges in under-visited regions by supporting local communities and reducing environmental stress on popular landmarks. Our tours also focus on low-impact travel options such as cycling and hiking, which help reduce carbon emissions.
Exodus partners with conservation projects worldwide, such as supporting wildlife preservation in Costa Rica; Citizen Science Departures, which help restore biodiversity in destinations; and rewilding efforts in Italy.
Which destinations or itineraries are best suited for solo travelers, families, seniors or travelers with physical limitations?
Exodus offers a wide range of itineraries catering to different types of travelers. For families, we offer itineraries that are perfect for kids and teens, such as wildlife safaris in Africa or tropical adventures in Costa Rica, with activities designed to engage younger travelers.
For seniors or travelers with physical limitations, itineraries in destinations such as Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast provide gentler, more leisurely paced adventures focused on scenic walks, culture and cuisine. Solo adventures, which are not solo-specific but cater to solo travelers, allow clients to join a small group of like-minded adventurers, making it easier to connect with other travelers and enjoy the journey as a group.
Looking ahead to 2025, which destinations or tours do you expect will be popular for North American travelers?
Exodus continues to put the customer experience first, monitoring travel trends to ensure trips match consumer desire and demand. Following the Paris Olympics and the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, we expect France to be a popular destination in 2025, and Exodus if offering two cycling itineraries in the region: Cycle Northern France: Brittany to Normandy and Cycle Champagne & Burgundy – Premium Adventure.
New additions for next year also include Hidden Vietnam: Sapa & Beyond, Portuguese Camino Highlights Walk and India’s North & South – Premium Adventure.
Is there anything else travel advisors should know about Exodus?
Exodus celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, and with this milestone, we truly reached for the stars, offering all-new tours for guests and the 50th Anniversary Morocco Agent Mega Fam in October.
Our commitment to our agency partners includes a fully staffed industry support team consisting of three BDMs, agency sales and marketing support, and we’re looking forward to 2025 being the biggest year ever for agency partners.
