5 Stars (538 reviews)
I really wasn't sure how I would like traveling with strangers (also considered new friends) and in a group setting, but this was one of the best vacations I have ever had. I did plan for some alone time before and after which was a nice mixture. But ultimately I do believe my experience probably has a lot to do with the company I was keeping. I feel grateful that the folks in our group were easy to get along with and I have made long lasting connections. I also believe that the guides can make or break it and our two guides, Ryan and Noah, were fantastic. They had a wealth of knowledge and I literally said, "it's really nice to have walking encyclopedias with us" on this trip! They were kind, funny, organized and Noah is an amazing chef! We ate well, we hiked great trails, we saw amazing sights and we didn't have to sweat any of the small details which really made me feel like I was on vacation. Overall, I had a wonderful time creating amazing memories I won't forget. It was without a doubt well beyond what I imagined the trip would be like. We also did have the most amazing weather pretty much the whole time so we lucked out on that.
Classic South Island Adventure, March 2024
Elizabeth
5 Stars (14 reviews)
This was my first group tour so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was a little sus, actually, and was uncertain how things would go. Those concerns were quickly dismissed once I met our guide, Roy, and driver, George. They found excellent hotels, activity vendors, restaurants, led informative and exciting hikes, and put together an overall awesome itinerary. Each day was filled with adventure, fun and local food. I have to admit the trip exceeded my expectations and I'm considering exploring the east coast of Costa Rica now that I've experienced the west coast.
Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure, March 2024
Steven
5 Stars (14 reviews)
This is my second trip with Austin / Active Adventures and it won't be my last! Costa Rica, Guanacaste trip was amazing. The activities were well planned and ran smoothly. The nature was beautiful and everything I hoped it would be. But the best part was our guide Roy and our driver Jorge! They 100% made my trip the best it could be. I am a single traveler and I always felt safe, taken care of and very much entertained and educated! I definitely recommend the Guanacaste, CR trip and if you are lucky to get Roy and Jorge, you are guaranteed to LOVE IT!
Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure, March 2024
Jeannine
4 Stars (240 reviews)
The guides , Elize and Emma made our trip fun , exploratory and informative . They were very hardworking and sensitive to our needs including adjusting the schedule to the weather .
New Zealand Walking Adventure, March 2024
Regina
5 Stars (240 reviews)
The trip was first rate and exceeded my expectations. It’s easy to be won over by New Zealand’s stunning scenery and natural beauty! More than this though, the success of the trip was due, in large measure, to our two superlative guides, Emma and Elize. Both guides did their jobs superbly: Emma is a fantastic cook who put heart and soul, indeed love, into her cooking. Every meal she prepared was delicious and well presented. Elize is an excellent driver - steady and considerate, making us feel safe throughout the long distances covered over 14 days. As hiking guides, both enhanced our hiking experience with their knowledge of flora and fauna. They also kept us entertained with local stories and legends. Both put in so much effort to give us an unforgettable holiday, and even went out of their way and beyond the call of duty to help us on 2 occasions. They were exceptional!
New Zealand Walking Adventure, March 2024
Juniper
5 Stars (377 reviews)
Wonderful experience exploring Patagonia - outstanding guide (CEM), spectacular scenery and great food.
CEM went out of his way to ensure we were well taken care of throughout the trip. Highly recommend any trip with him. He was the best guide! Our group named him "Guide of the Year" to our farewell dinner.
Patagonia Hiking Adventure, March 2024
Michelle
4 Stars (377 reviews)
The Patagonia adventure was epic. Our guide, CEM, was an experienced professional who cared about each of us.
Patagonia Hiking Adventure, March 2024
Mary
5 Stars (538 reviews)
This was an absolutely fabulous trip. Every step of the trip was smooth and all details taken care of. Beautiful country and our guides were spectacular (Liana & Lauren). The accommodations were great, food was good, and the narrative by Liana was second to none. She described in beautiful detail everywhere we went and the history (maori legends included) of each town and sight we saw. Lauren was a perfect partner to her in making sure we were well fed and all details taken care of.
I would gladly do another trip with Active Adventures or even Austin Adventures. Will only hope I get Liana and Lauren again.
Classic South Island Adventure, March 2024
Tomi