Intrepid Travel Expands Domestic Adventure Offering with Full Acquisition of JOOB

Intrepid Travel has completed the full acquisition of Australian adventure tourism operator JOOB, consolidating its position in the domestic adventure travel market and expanding its locally operated walking and trekking experiences across the country.

The Melbourne-based global travel company first took a majority stake in JOOB in 2022. The latest transaction brings JOOB fully under Intrepid ownership and aligns with the company’s long-term 2030 growth strategy, which prioritises domestic travel, regional operations and locally led experiences.

JOOB operates as a destination management company specialising in walking and nature-based adventure tours across Australia. Its portfolio includes brands such as Inspiration Outdoors and Waratah Adventure Tours, offering guided experiences in most Australian states and territories. Operations are based in Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Alice Springs and Melbourne, with seasonal activity in Darwin and Cairns.

Intrepid Travel said the acquisition would allow it to scale domestic adventure products while maintaining local expertise and established operational networks. JOOB’s trips will be progressively rebranded under the Intrepid name, integrating them into the company’s broader global and regional offering.

Brett Mitchell, Managing Director
ANZ at Intrepid Travel

Brett Mitchell, Managing Director ANZ at Intrepid Travel, said the move reflected growing demand for domestic and nature-based travel experiences and strengthened the company’s commitment to investing in Australian tourism. He said walking, trekking and First Nations-led experiences would be a continued focus as the domestic program develops.

The acquisition builds on Intrepid’s recent expansion of its Australian operations. As part of its 2030 strategy, the company has also acquired key assets from Kimberley Wild Expeditions in Western Australia, including vehicles and leases associated with the Bungle Bungle Camp. Those assets were incorporated into Intrepid’s regional operations, while Kimberley Wild Expeditions continues to operate other parts of its business independently.

Simon Mendelawitz, founder of JOOB, will continue in his role as General Manager of Intrepid Travel’s Australian destination management company. He said the transition would support further growth of locally operated trips and strengthen partnerships with regional suppliers and communities.

Intrepid Travel operates in more than 100 countries worldwide and is known for its small-group adventure travel model. In recent years, the company has increased its focus on domestic and regional travel, responding to changing traveller preferences and growing interest in shorter, accessible experiences closer to home.

The integration of JOOB is expected to enhance Intrepid’s ability to deliver year-round domestic itineraries while supporting regional tourism economies. The company has indicated that further investment in product development and partnerships within Australia remains under consideration as part of its broader growth plans.