What's Happening?
EF Adventures has partnered with Backcountry, an outdoor gear expert, to launch a new collection of hiking and multi-adventure tours in 2027. This collaboration combines EF Adventures' expertise in active travel with Backcountry's knowledge of outdoor gear.
The collection features four new tours, ranging from seven to 14 days with moderate to challenging activity levels. The U.S. Hiking with Backcountry: Sedona, the Grand Canyon & Zion trip, starting in April 2027, guides travelers through Utah's terrain, including Sedona's red-rock formations, the Grand Canyon, and Zion National Park. Other international tours include Norway Multi-Adventure, Italy Hiking with Backcountry: The Dolomites, and Chile & Argentina Hiking with Backcountry: Patagonia. Each tour includes a dedicated Backcountry Gearhead for pre-departure gear selection and a 'signature moment' experience, such as a guided descent of the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon.
Why It's Important?
This partnership is significant for the U.S. adventure travel market, offering highly curated and supported outdoor experiences. The integration of Backcountry's gear expertise ensures travelers are well-prepared, potentially increasing safety and enjoyment for participants. The U.S.-based tour to Sedona, Grand Canyon, and Zion National Park highlights iconic American natural wonders, promoting domestic tourism and appreciation for national parks. For U.S. consumers, these tours provide a comprehensive package that includes accommodations, most meals, excursions, adventure equipment, and a tour director, simplifying the planning process for complex outdoor adventures. The focus on community building and cultural immersion also caters to a growing demand for more meaningful travel experiences.
What's Next?
The four new tours will each have one departure in 2027, starting with the U.S. Hiking with Backcountry: Sedona, the Grand Canyon & Zion trip in April. Travelers will be paired with a dedicated Backcountry Gearhead after booking to assist with gear selection and packing in the months leading up to their departure. Tour prices start at $6,190 per person, with options for additional purchases like flights, 'cancel for any reason' insurance, and trip extensions through EF Adventures. The success of these initial offerings could lead to expanded collections or more frequent departures in subsequent years, further solidifying the partnership between EF Adventures and Backcountry in the adventure travel sector.
Beyond the Headlines
This collaboration reflects a broader trend in the travel industry towards specialized, experience-driven tourism, particularly in the outdoor and adventure segments. The partnership leverages brand strengths to offer a unique value proposition: expert-led tours combined with personalized gear consultation. This model addresses the increasing desire among travelers for authentic, challenging, and well-supported adventures. It also highlights the growing importance of preparation and equipment in outdoor activities, positioning gear experts as integral to the travel experience. The emphasis on 'signature moments' and cultural immersion suggests a shift from mere sightseeing to deeper engagement with destinations, appealing to a demographic seeking transformative travel experiences.
