International Expeditions

When you travel with International Expeditions, you travel with pioneers in ecotourism. International Expeditions shows you some of the most remarkable places in the world — but does so in a way that’s as enriching as we can make it. Our escorted tours, planned and continuously refined over 35 years, include many elements that would be next to impossible to do otherwise. On our Amazon cruise, for example, we’ll take you further into the river's tributaries than anyone else, so that you have the chance for some exceptional sightings. And as you learn, you’ll also have a lot of fun and laughter — the joy that comes from making new discoveries in the company of friends who share in the excitement.

A History of Ecotravel

In 1990, International Expeditions helped to form The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) by providing the major source of funding, and our founder and former president, Richard Ryel, also served as a member of the original board. TIES works to bring communities, conservation and sustainable travel together to promote ecotravel to natural areas, while conserving the environment and improving the well-being of local people.

Great Guides

International Expeditions is the “world leader in nature travel” for one reason above all others — the superb, English-speaking naturalists and historians who guide you through Earth’s great wildlife and cultural destinations. These are not typical “tour leaders.” Rather, our guides are consummate local experts with the uncanny ability to tell you about all the animals, plants, history and culture you’ll encounter, and who care that you enjoy yourself and get the most out of your experience. You can be sure that because of them, your IE journey will be interesting, enriching, fun and exciting.

Small Groups and Independent Travel

International Expeditions specializes in small group natural history tours. Our strong contacts around the globe and thorough knowledge of each destination enable us to serve "independent" guests like no other travel outfitter. That’s why so many people turn to us to customize their ideal journeys to Earth’s great nature and cultural history destinations.

Travel in Style

With International Expeditions, you’ll travel in small groups (seldom over 16 guests), with expert nature travel guides, on meticulously planned itineraries. And you’ll stay in top-rate accommodations. You’ll be well looked after wherever you go. From our stylish  Amazon riverboats (which we helped design!) to romantic tented camps in Africa and everywhere in between, you can expect the very highest order of service. We’re detail-oriented, and it shows in our unrivaled pre-departure materials. From our picturesque brochures to the comprehensive Destination Handbook provided free of charge in your pre-departure package, no one prepares you for your journey like we do.

IE Difference

For 35 years, International Expeditions has specialized in intriguing nature travel to the world’s greatest natural and cultural destinations as an adventure travel company. Our award-winning expedition cruises and small-group travel journeys combine many extraordinary elements.

The Best Values in Nature Travel: It takes more than a low price to be an outstanding value. Every activity, a full-educational program, exclusive access, knowledgeable expedition team, employee-staffed 24-hour emergency line and so much more are included in every journey — all with a price that makes it easier for you to explore!

Expert Local Guides: There’s no substitute for experience when it comes to offering small-group travel that’s authentic, educational and fun. That’s why our hand-selected naturalist guides are highly trained and educated natives, each passionate about their country. Why would you want to travel with an American “tour leader” when you can bond with these fun locals while gaining insight into their homelands?

Small-Group Travel to Earth's Greatest Destinations: From signature journeys to the Amazon and Galapagos, to our tours to Bali to Komodo, Nicaragua and Cuba, our nature-focused, small-group expeditions remain THE standard for exploring Earth’s greatest natural wonders. Plus, our intimate group sizes ensure you get the personal attention you deserve while exploring the exotic.

Activities & Excursions for All: Some people travel for adventure, and some just want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. That’s why IE’s adventurous itineraries include as many activity options as possible. Swimming, snorkeling, elephant-back safaris and peaceful excursion boat rides are just a few of our many activities.

Comfortable Accommodations: You don’t have to sacrifice comfort and five-star service to discover Earth’s remote regions. IE’s comfortable, intimate expedition ships and well-located accommodations let you explore in style.

Local Cuisine: You’ll work up quite an appetite during daily excursions. And whether it’s sampling local fare in Peru or India, or settling down for a delicious meal in the heart of Laos, you’ll enjoy food to satisfy every palate. Plus, whenever possible, we use locally grown food to stimulate the economy and give you a fresh taste of the local culture and cuisine.