Airbnb to challenge tour operators with launch of Airbnb Adventures

Global homesharing platform Airbnb has announced the launch of Airbnb Adventures, an initiative that will take small groups to off-the-beaten-track locations and immerse them in unique cultures and communities.

Described as a collection of “bucket-list worthy, multi-day experiences hosted by local experts”, adventures currently available include a six-day Galapagos Slow Food Safari, a farm stay in the Thai countryside, a roadtrip through Atherton Tablelands and a kayaking adventure through the islands of the Hauraki Gulf.

Currently there are over 200 adventures to choose from that are either entirely exclusive to Airbnb, or provided by small, local operators that are not typically found on any other major booking platform.

Orientated towards experiences rather than adrenaline seekers, Airbnb was nonetheless advised on safety and best practices for the new platform offering by the Adventure Travel Trade Association.

Hosts offer a range of prices, from $114 for an overnight trip up to $7,230 for a 10-day trek.

Airbnb Adventures is an extension of the company’s Experiences offering, which was launched in 2016 “to allow people to share their passions and talents” and is now available in over 1,000 cities worldwide.

Introducing the initiative, Joe Zadeh, Vice President of Experiences at Airbnb, stated “getting access to epic and transformational travel has never been easier than through Airbnb Adventures.

“Like Airbnb Experiences, people can escape their day to day, but instead of just for a few hours, they now have the option to fully switch off, push themselves out of their comfort zones and have experiences that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”

While seemingly offering more ‘off-the-beaten track’ experiences, the new venture does looks set to challenge many traditional tour operators.

Image: Bush survival in the NSW Blue Mountains, one of the initial Airbnb Adventures.