Exodus Adventure Travels, the leader in active small group guided tours, announces its top trending destinations and special tours for travelers wanting to experience the joy of hiking, biking, and cultural and wildlife trips around the world.
According to MMGY’s 2024 Portrait of American Travelers data, travelers increasingly seek immersive cultural experiences, active adventures, and under-the-radar gems. Based on traveler feedback and data-driven research, Exodus highlights some of the many breathtaking destinations on the rise for adventurers in the coming years.
Trending Europe Destinations
Europe’s diverse offerings, from iconic cultural landmarks to breathtaking natural landscapes, make it an enduring favorite for adventurers. Whether it’s exploring the ancient cities of Italy, cycling along Portugal’s Atlantic coast, or hiking through the French Alps, Europe provides endless opportunities for immersive travel experiences with Exodus.
Italy small group adventures
Italy continues to be a top trending destination for small group tours. Known for its vibrant culture and varied regions, Italy attracts adventurers who wish to explore everything from its famous coastlines to majestic mountain ranges. Exodus visits Italy’s iconic sights and guides travelers to lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path destinations, offering a deeper connection with local culture.
Exodus’ Highlights of the Amalfi Coast and Walking the Amalfi Coast take travelers through Europe’s most dramatic coastline with experts of the region. Visitors will live la dolce vita for a week, admiring dreamy coastal views from the Path of the Gods, exploring romantic Ravello and traveling through history in Herculaneum and Pompeii.
Travelers can also embark on a premium trekking adventure with the Classic Dolomites tour or uncover one of Europe’s great cultural destinations aboard the Treasures of Sicily. From the unmistakably jagged peaks of the Italian Dolomites to Sicily’s rich history and Mediterranean beauty, travelers are flocking to regions across Italy.
Portugal small group adventures
Portugal’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and gastronomic excellence have made it a rising star for adventure travelers. From the cultural hotspots of Lisbon and Porto to the sun-drenched beaches of the Atlantic coast, Exodus takes travelers to must-see sites across Portugal.
Exodus’ Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride takes guests between the two cities to the lesser-known medieval village of Obidos, sandy beaches, and fishing villages along Portugal’s Atlantic coast and the untouched dunes of São Jacinto Natural Reserve.
Travelers can also explore Madeira’s hiking paradise with the Walking the Island of Madeira tour. Guests will experience the most beautiful routes on this Portuguese island, from gentle strolls along flower-lined levadas and spectacular coastal footpaths to more demanding forays among the jagged ridges and peaks of the mountainous interior.
France small group adventures
Some may consider France, home to the 2024 Olympics, to have already had its moment in the spotlight. However, as travelers seek escapes beyond Paris, France’s Western Alps and Loire Valley are gaining popularity for 2025.
Exodus’ Mont Blanc Highlights tour remains a favorite for hikers looking to swap the crowded metropolis for the breathtaking Alpine views along Europe’s greatest long-distance trail. Unique to Exodus, guests can unwind from a long day of hiking each evening in a comfortable chalet, where welcoming hosts make it feel like home.
Travelers looking for a relaxing countryside escape are heading to the Loire Valley to discover regal estates and fine wines in the glamorous Garden of France. Exodus takes travelers through the wine region, including a tasting experience with the Loire wine brotherhood, while staying in a 15th-century chateau and 17-century country manor house.
Trending adventures in The Baltics
With the theme of the emerging ‘colocation’ trend, the Baltics, with their stunning landscapes, ancient villages, and charming capital cities, are a popular choice for adventure travelers looking to explore lesser-known regions of Northern Europe with cooler climates. While still relatively undiscovered by mainstream tourism, the region won’t stay that way for long.
Exodus’ Walks of the Baltics and Finland tour takes travelers through the historic capital cities of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn, along with the hidden gems of the Baltics. Travelers will visit the ancient village of Koguva, walk the Līču-Laņģu sandstone cliffs, discover the picturesque Venta Rapid, and explore the beautiful Saaremaa Island, which any other major adventure tour operators do not offer.
For those looking to embrace the magic of winter, Exodus’ Winter in the Baltics, Helsinki & Stockholm tour spans five European capitals. Adventurers can marvel at Trakai Castle, explore the unique Temppeliaukio Church, visit the oldest chocolate factory in Lithuania, and enjoy traditional Christmas markets on select departures.
Trending Destinations in The Americas
From the lush rainforests of Costa Rica to the cultural depth of Cuba, the Americas offer a wide range of adventures for travelers. These regions provide the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, and Exodus Adventure Travels offers a gateway to the continent’s most captivating destinations.
Costa Rica small group adventures
Named the 2024 ‘Destination of the Year’ by Travel + Leisure, it’s no surprise that Costa Rica remains Exodus’ most popular Latin American destination. Home to a gloriously diverse ecosystem, which accounts for 5% of the world’s plant and animal species, this natural wonderland is a haven for nature lovers. Exodus offers a variety of ways to travel, from cycling tours, family adventures and wildlife retreats.
Exodus’ Costa Rica Active Escape is the perfect introduction to Costa Rica, combining wildlife with adventures. While most tours take travelers to Manuel Antonio, Exodus takes them to the hidden gem of Carrillo Beach for a private dolphin-watching boat trip.
Cuba small group adventures
Once largely inaccessible to U.S. travelers, Cuba has long captivated adventurers with its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes. This year, Exodus Adventure Travels reintroduced its Cuba trips for U.S. citizens, offering a range of immersive, OFAC-compliant itineraries that run for eight to 15 days. Travelers can experience everything from the charm of Havana to the rolling hills of Viñales, with each trip designed to foster deep, authentic connections with the Cuban way of life.
Exodus’ A Taste of Cuba tour is the perfect introduction to Cuba, showcasing the best of western Cuba, including the UNESCO heritage city of Trinidad, providing a legal route for US citizens to see the real Cuba with daily interactions that support the Cuban people such as staying at family-run Cuban guesthouses.
Cuba cycling adventures
Exodus Adventure Travels offers four unique itineraries designed to educate and immerse cyclists in the local culture via their bikes:
Cuban Highlights Ride: Featuring fabulous cycles in western Cuba, this itinerary is ideal for those with limited time but unlimited curiosity about life in rural Cuba. Take in some of the country’s most idyllic spots, including cascading El Nicho waterfall, cycling to paradisiacal Playa Ancón and experiencing the best of Havana on a classic car tour.
Cycling Cuba: This exciting itinerary will leave long-lasting memories for those looking for the ultimate adventure in Cuba. The route starts in Havana and heads east as far as Santiago de Cuba, taking in a variety of must-see destinations and hidden gems on the way. Travelers are joined by members of the Cuban Masters Road Cycling Club for stages of the journey, who share their love of cycling and meaningful stories of their lives in Cuba.
A Taste of Cuba: This culture-based itinerary focuses on some of the island’s most iconic places, including the tranquil and lush valley of Viñales (home to giant limestone mogotes dotted amongst endless tobacco plantations), the UNESCO-listed Trinidad, and, of course, iconic Havana.
Cuba: La Isla Grande: On this most comprehensive itinerary, travelers will spend two weeks traveling the length and breadth of the Caribbean’s largest island. They will also travel all the way to Cuba’s most easterly tip, Baracoa, where Columbus first set foot and where a unique culture and cuisine have developed due to its seclusion.
Trending Destinations in Asia
Asia’s vast landscapes and rich cultural histories make it a captivating region for those looking to experience natural beauty and deep cultural immersion. From the bustling streets of Vietnam to the tranquil mountains of Thailand, Exodus Adventure Travels offers journeys that bring travelers closer to the heart of Asia’s unique allure.
Small group adventures in Vietnam
Vietnam continues to top the list of Exodus’ most booked destinations, attracting adventurous travelers looking for a blend of vibrant cities, serene landscapes and cultural immersion. Known for its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Vietnam offers an unforgettable journey for travelers.
Exodus’ Cycling Vietnam takes travelers through the country’s iconic landscapes, from bustling cities to peaceful rural paths. Guests will cycle through Hanoi, the historical capital, to the ancient town of Hoi An before reaching the energetic Ho Chi Minh City.
For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Exodus’ Hidden Vietnam: Sapa & Beyond tour covers Vietnam’s well-known highlights while introducing lesser-visited gems. The itinerary includes a tranquil day boat trip to Lan Ha Bay, an overnight stay at an ecolodge on Cat Ba Island and a cultural immersion with a stay in Ta Phin village in the northern highlands.
Small group adventures in Thailand
Thailand is expected to be a top destination for 2025, spurred by its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and the growing buzz from pop culture influences like White Lotus season 3, which filmed in the region and is expected to premiere in 2025.
Exodus’ Treasures of Northern Thailand tours take travelers away from the beaches and to a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites, rich jungle landscapes, verdant paddy fields and fine seascapes. Itinerary highlights include exploring Bangkok on a longtail canal boat trip, visiting Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, seeing majestic waterfalls at Erawan National Park and dining at a floating restaurant by the River Kwai.
For those looking to explore more of the region, Exodus’ Southeast Asia Express spans Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, offering an activity-packed itinerary ideal for culture-hungry adventurers. Travelers will journey through the peaceful Mekong Delta, visit the moving Killing Fields of Cambodia, explore Angkor’s awe-inspiring archaeological ruins and experience the tuk-tuks, khlong boats and incredible street food of Bangkok.
The Silk Road
For adventure travelers looking to explore a destination steeped in rich history, Exodus’ Silk Road tour allows them to walk in the footsteps of Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, and Marco Polo through countries whose location on the Silk Road has resulted in a culture with flavors from Europe, the Middle East, Russia, and Asia.
For those looking to explore the region, Exodus’ Silk Road tour visits the minarets and domes of Uzbekistan and the beautiful Tien Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Visitors will follow in the footsteps of ancient traders, uncovering the cultural and natural treasures of Central Asia, including Registan Square in Samarkand, the Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan, and Khiva’s walled city, the Itchan Kala.
Trending Destinations in Africa
Africa’s expansive landscapes, ancient cities, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers. Whether trekking the rugged mountains of Morocco or spotting wildlife in Namibia, Exodus Adventure Travels presents many ways to explore this vast and diverse continent.
Small group adventures in Morocco
Following the recent earthquake, Morocco remains a resilient and captivating destination. A popular destination for European travelers, Morocco is booming for North Americans looking to experience its untouched landscapes, magnificent ancient cities, and centuries-old customs that still sway here. On Exodus’s Morocco adventure tours, expert guides take travelers to a mix of significant sights alongside the hidden gems in the alleyways, allowing visitors to delve into the country’s rich culture and experience traditions through the eyes of a local.
See the best of the cities, mountains, and deserts with Exodus’ Highlights of Morocco trip, from mazey medinas and lively souks to the broad-shouldered Atlas Mountains and stretching sands of the Sahara. Guests will visit the Todra Gorge and tour all four great Imperial Cities of Morocco: Rabat, Meknes, Fez and Marrakech.
For those looking to go off the beaten track, Exodus’ Undiscovered Atlas tour, travelers will trek past kasbahs perched on terraced valleys, camp outside remote local villages and end the adventure in Taroudant, a city that’s affectionately called ‘Marrakech in miniature’.
Trending safari adventures
Travelers’ interest in wildlife trips continues to be high and Exodus offers an array of unforgettable safari experiences across Africa. Namibia, Botswana and South Africa are a few of the top wildlife destinations capturing the attention of wildlife enthusiasts.
One standout journey is Exodus’ Namibia & Botswana: Dunes and Delta tour, which takes adventurers from the towering dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich Okavango Delta, showcasing Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes and wildlife along the way. Visitors can spot various wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards in Etosha National Park, fly over the otherworldly Skeleton Coast, and experience game drives in the world-renowned Okavango.
For an intimate wildlife experience, Exodus’ South Africa: Walking & Wildlife takes hikers through forests, plains, and mountains to track wildlife on foot, by boat, and by 4×4. Along with the fantastic walking opportunities, travelers will also discover the country’s amazing wildlife, such as elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, giraffes, cheetahs, and much more.
How to Choose the Right Adventure Travel Destination
Conversations have been buzzing recently about how group tours and how to choose the right operator to accommodate personal travel preferences, which inspired Sam Seward, Managing Director at Exodus Adventure Travels, to share his advice for first-timers booking a guided adventure tour.
“As a leader at a company with over 50 years of experience leading small group tours in destinations worldwide, I’ve seen firsthand how adventurers may need hacks on finding the right fit for them,” said Sam Seward, Managing Director at Exodus Adventure Travels. “Below are my top five tips for choosing the perfect tour.”
- Imagine what types of adventures really make your eyes light up. Whether you’re cycling through roads less traveled, giving back to a local community, or immersing yourself in cultural experiences, the first step is envisioning what you want to get out of the trip.
- Decide what activity level best suits your comfort level. If you’re looking for an active cycling or walking trip, note whether the itinerary is leisurely, moderate, or challenging to make sure it is the right fit for you.
- Determine what time of year you’d like to travel. If you have flexibility, that’s even better for sometimes there are good prices on last minute tours.
- While researching options that fit your dream trip, ask questions. (No excl point) Tap your friends and even customer service experts who can suggest iconic itineraries. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask questions about group sizes, flexibility, and safety measures.
- Consider who is leading the tour and prioritize those experts in their field or destination who are best suited to help you walk away with an appreciation for a place.
Find top recommendations for the best adventure tours based on various interest below:
For the first-time tour traveler: Amalfi Coast
For the sustainable traveler: Discover Costa Rica
For the guide enthusiast:Egypt Nile Cruise, a trip co-sponsored by the Canadian Geographic Society with Charlene Bearhead
For the solo traveler:Walking the Island of Madeira
For the culture seeker: Discover Cuba
For the cycling enthusiast: Cycling Vietnam