Intrepid Travel is strengthening its position as a leader in sustainable, nature-focused tourism with the acquisition of Wild Bush Luxury, one of Australia’s most respected guided walking and premium lodge operators.
The purchase brings several renowned experiences into Intrepid’s portfolio, including Arkaba Walk and Homestead in South Australia, Bamurra Plains in the Northern Territory, and additional premium guided walks such as the Maria Island Walk in Tasmania.
Together, these additions allow Intrepid to significantly expand its offering of immersive, low-impact adventures across some of Australia’s most remote and spectacular landscapes.
Wild Bush Luxury has long been known for its conservation-driven approach and intimate wilderness encounters. Its guided walking tours give travelers a deeper connection to the land, wildlife and Indigenous history of the regions they explore. By integrating these acclaimed lodges and walks into its offerings, Intrepid aims to meet the growing demand for meaningful, nature-grounded travel experiences.
According to Brett Mitchell, Intrepid’s Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand, travelers are increasingly looking for ways to reconnect with the natural world, and the company’s expanded portfolio is designed to support that shift. The acquisition aligns closely with Intrepid’s sustainability commitments and its long-term Climate Action Plan, which includes reducing emissions and supporting conservation-oriented tourism.
The transfer of Wild Bush Luxury from Experience Co. comes after a strategic portfolio review by the previous owner. Experience Co. chose to refocus its business on scalable adventure segments such as marine tourism at the Great Barrier Reef, Treetops Adventure parks and its growing skydive and aviation operations. The company emphasized its confidence that Intrepid is the right steward for the conservation-focused lodges and walking experiences, pointing to Intrepid’s global reputation for responsible travel.
The timing of the acquisition dovetails with Intrepid’s largest product expansion ever. The operator recently unveiled more than 100 new itineraries launching in 2026 across 50-plus countries. These include new Short Breaks designed with American travelers in mind, as well as a growing range of Premium Walking and Trekking trips fueled by rising demand for active travel. Intrepid has also seen a notable increase in family bookings, prompting the launch of 10 new family itineraries and the introduction of a 20% discount for travelers 17 and under.
Among the standout offerings for next year is the Acatenango Volcano Hike and Antigua Short Break in Guatemala, combining adventure with meaningful cultural experiences. As Intrepid continues to expand globally, the addition of Wild Bush Luxury solidifies its role as one of Australia’s largest operators of guided walks and eco-focused accommodations.
With the Wild Bush Luxury portfolio officially joining Intrepid in February 2026, the company is poised to deliver an even broader range of immersive, environmentally responsible travel experiences. The acquisition not only strengthens Australia’s position as a premier destination for nature-based tourism but also reinforces Intrepid’s commitment to shaping the future of sustainable adventure travel.
