In 2015, two pioneer leaders in travel, G Adventures and National Geographic Expeditions, joined forces with the shared mission of reimagining the way travelers explore the world. Ten years in, the collaboration has done more than simply surpass expectations; it has created a lasting imprint on our way of exploring foreign destinations. The milestone of the collaboration has been characterized by transformative trips with deep immersion with people and places and has encouraged thousands of travelers to explore with purpose.

Both brands have also announced plans to carry out their mission for the next ten years, expanding their collaborative offering with increasingly immersive travel experiences that encourage cultural immersion, conservation, and sustainable tourism.

A Shared Vision for Exploration and Impact
The partnership between G Adventures and National Geographic Expeditions was founded on a mutual belief in the power of travel to inspire positive change. From its inception, the collaboration has focused on crafting experiences that go beyond the typical tourist attractions. Instead, they emphasize the importance of connecting travelers with local communities, preserving the heritage of the destinations, and providing sustainable travel options that make a difference.

As the companies celebrate ten years of shared success, Ben Perlo, CEO of G Adventures, reflects on the partnership’s impact: “What began as an opportunity to tap into the group travel market has now evolved into life-changing experiences that benefit not only travelers but also local communities and wildlife.” G Adventures has seen consistent growth each year, as more and more people seek to explore destinations in a deeper and more responsible manner.

The Evolution of National Geographic Journeys
National Geographic’s commitment to exploration and scientific discovery aligns perfectly with G Adventures’ expertise in creating authentic travel experiences. Over the years, the two organizations have developed over 100 itineraries, blending education, adventure, and storytelling. These journeys are designed not just to show visitors iconic sights but to bring them closer to the essence of the places they visit—whether that means meeting a monk in Chiang Mai to learn about Buddhism or joining a wildlife researcher in South Africa to discuss conservation efforts.

Each journey is a celebration of National Geographic’s values of exploration, research, and conservation. The result is a collection of travel experiences that help travelers form lasting memories and gain a deeper understanding of the places they visit. These trips have changed the lives of thousands of participants, allowing them to experience the world through the eyes of local people and experts in fields like science, culture, and conservation.

Celebrating the Positive Ripple Effects on Communities
One of the most significant outcomes of the G Adventures and National Geographic collaboration has been the positive impact on the communities visited through the trips. Through the ‘G for Good’ initiative and the Planeterra Foundation, 25 social enterprise projects have been established and integrated into the itineraries, providing local people with sustainable livelihoods while also offering travelers an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at life in these areas.

The results are tangible. More than 50,000 people across the globe have been uplifted through these community tourism initiatives. These experiences allow travelers to contribute to the conservation of cultural heritage, support local artisans, and directly assist in the preservation of wildlife. Moreover, each trip supports the National Geographic Society, which continues its vital work in research, conservation, and education worldwide.

National Geographic Family Journeys: Inspiring the Next Generation of Explorers
In 2019, the partnership expanded with the introduction of National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures. This extension of their collaboration offered families an opportunity to engage with the world in a new way, fostering a sense of wonder and exploration in younger generations. The trips have been carefully designed to ignite curiosity about the natural world, different cultures, and the importance of preserving the planet.

Some of the family experiences that have captured the imagination of young travelers include making noodles in Vietnam, ziplining and wildlife spotting in Costa Rica, and learning the art of Taiko drumming with a professional drummer in Japan. These activities allow children and their families to not only enjoy the adventure but also learn about the cultures and ecosystems they are visiting in a hands-on and engaging manner.

Destinations Across the Globe
The National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures and National Geographic Family Journeys collections offer travelers the opportunity to explore some of the most breathtaking and diverse destinations on the planet. These include countries like South Africa, Japan, Egypt, Greece, and Thailand, each with its own unique history, culture, and natural beauty.

In South Africa, travelers can learn about conservation efforts and get an up-close look at endangered species in the Greater Kruger National Park. In Egypt, they can explore the ancient wonders of the pyramids and tombs, guided by an expert archaeologist. Greece offers travelers a chance to meet a former homeless guide at a non-profit café in Athens, where they will hear firsthand about the impact of the country’s financial crisis. Meanwhile, in Thailand, travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture through activities like cooking classes and visits to local markets.

Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter in Adventure Travel
As G Adventures and National Geographic Expeditions look to the future, they are committed to further expanding the horizons of their collaborative journey. With the travel landscape constantly evolving, the demand for meaningful, immersive, and purpose-driven travel experiences is expected to grow. Both organizations are poised to continue innovating in the space of adventure travel, ensuring that future generations of travelers can connect with the world in ways that are responsible, educational, and transformative.

Conclusion: A Partnership Built on Purpose
The ten-year collaboration between G Adventures and National Geographic Expeditions has been nothing short of extraordinary. Through their common passion for exploration, education, and empowering the community, they have developed a series of journeys that not only satiate the desire to roam of travelers but also leave an enduring positive effect on the world. With another ten years of collaboration ahead of them, this collaboration is here to continue transforming lives, building world understanding, and aiding the world in safeguarding its most treasured possessions.

References: National Geographic Expeditions Official Website, G Adventures Official Website, National Geographic Society, Planeterra Foundation (G Adventures’ social enterprise initiative)