Active travel
Hiking
outdoor tour operator
Your outdoor adventure, tailored: Find the perfect tour operator!
Are you dreaming of unforgettable outdoor experiences? Finding the right tour operator can be overwhelming. We help you find the perfect partner for your next adventure! Discover how to plan and book your dream trip today. You can find more information in our contact section.
The topic briefly and concisely
Outdoor tourism is booming, especially among Millennials and Gen Z, who value experiences and sustainability. The COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified this trend.
Northern Europe and unknown travel destinations are gaining significance, as e-bikes revolutionise accessibility. Tour operators who embrace these trends can increase their booking revenues by up to 20%.
Sustainability and customer satisfaction are crucial. Through eco-friendly offerings and excellent customer service, outdoor travel operators can increase repeat bookings by 10%.
Discover the world with experienced outdoor tour operators! We show you how to find the ideal provider for your individual adventures. Get inspired!
Optimally Planning Outdoor Adventures: How to Find the Ideal Tour Operator
Are you dreaming of unforgettable experiences in nature? Outdoor tourism offers you the opportunity to actively discover the world and embark on adventures. However, planning such a trip can be complex. Here, you'll learn how to find the perfect outdoor tour operator to make your dream trip stress-free.
What Outdoor Tourism Really Means
What exactly is outdoor tourism? At its core, it encompasses all tourist activities that take place in nature. This includes activities such as hiking, climbing, cycling, canoeing, and many other sports. The focus is on experiencing and adventuring in the great outdoors. Outdoor tourism is not just a leisure pursuit but also an important economic factor. It generates revenue and creates jobs, especially in rural areas. Additionally, it contributes to regional development by improving infrastructure and raising awareness for nature conservation.
Outdoor Tourism: More Than Just a Trend – A Lifestyle
Outdoor tourism is experiencing continuous growth and increasing diversification. More and more people are seeking active experiences in nature, resulting in increased participation and a broader range of activities on offer. The COVID-19 pandemic has further amplified this trend. Many travellers now prefer nature experiences to escape the confinement of cities and move in a safe environment. Safety concerns and social distancing have led to outdoor activities being perceived as a lower-risk alternative to traditional holiday forms. The pandemic has accelerated the growth of outdoor tourism, as travellers seek open-air experiences.
Understanding Outdoor Tourists: Target Groups and Travel Motives
Understanding Outdoor Tourists: Target Audiences and Travel Motives
To find the ideal outdoor tour operator for your needs, it is important to understand the different target audiences and travel motives in outdoor tourism. This way, you can ensure that the provider’s offerings match your personal expectations.
Who are the outdoor tourists?
Typical outdoor tourists are diverse. Millennials and Generation Z are driving forces in outdoor tourism, as they value experiences and sustainability. However, older age groups are also increasingly discovering the benefits of active travel in nature. Additionally, there is a rise in women-only trips, where women explore nature and seek adventure together. The income levels and educational backgrounds of outdoor tourists vary, but many are willing to spend more for high-quality experiences and good organisation.
Why are people drawn to nature?
The travel motives in outdoor tourism are diverse. Many seek relaxation and respite from everyday stress and want to enjoy nature. They long for authenticity and wish to discover the local culture and lifestyle. Others seek adventure and challenge. They aim to engage in extreme sports, test their limits, and pursue personal growth. Education and cultural experiences also play a role. Many outdoor tourists are interested in the natural and cultural heritage of the regions they visit and value sustainability and environmental protection. Backroads expects significant growth in women-only trips, particularly in hiking and trekking tours. The demand for unique experiences, health-conscious activities, and ecotourism is driving growth in the adventure segment.
The Trends of Tomorrow: Top Trends in Outdoor Tourism 2024/2025
The Trends of Tomorrow: Top Trends in Outdoor Tourism 2024/2025
Outdoor tourism is constantly evolving. To give you an overview of the most relevant current trends, we have summarised the key developments for 2024 and 2025.
Hiking and Trekking Trips Remain Popular
Hiking and trekking trips continue to be a vital part of outdoor tourism. There are challenging alpine hikes for experienced mountaineers as well as relaxed exploration tours for leisurely walkers. Cycling holidays and e-bikes are also gaining popularity. E-bike tours in particular allow less fit individuals to cover longer distances and enjoy nature. Gravel cycling is also emerging as a new trend where landscapes are explored off-road. Backroads is experiencing high demand for alpine hiking experiences. E-bikes are revolutionising accessibility, with 64% of respondents stating that at least 25% of their customers choose them for tours.
Northern Europe and Lesser-Known Destinations on the Rise
Northern Europe is becoming increasingly important as a travel destination. Countries like Portugal, Albania, Slovenia, Norway, and Finland offer diverse natural landscapes and are often less crowded than other European destinations. The Norwegian fjords and the Lofoten Islands are particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, lesser-known destinations are gaining focus. Under-the-radar locations with unique landscapes and authentic experiences are attracting more and more travellers. These so-called Detour Destinations and Coolcations provide a refreshing alternative to tourist hotspots. The growing interest in Northern European destinations (Portugal, Albania, Slovenia, Norway, Finland) represents an opportunity for diversification. Interest in Madeira and the Azores is increasing, leading to expanded flight schedules and tour offerings.
Winter Travel and Natural Phenomena Attract
Winter travel is also becoming more popular. Many people use the colder season to engage in winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. Others escape to warmer climates to avoid winter and enjoy the sun. Another trend is travel to natural phenomena. Many people wish to see the Northern Lights or experience a solar eclipse at least once in their lifetime. These so-called Dark Skies & Eclipses draw adventurers from around the world. Travel to natural phenomena like the Aurora Borealis and solar eclipses remains a strong motivator. Backroads recorded a 19% increase over the previous year in active ocean and river cruises.
Successful in the Market: Business Models for Outdoor Tour Operators
Successful in the Market: Business Models for Outdoor Tour Operators
Choosing the right business model is crucial for the success of an outdoor tour operator. There are various approaches suitable depending on the target audience, offerings, and market conditions.
Package or Modular Trips: What Suits Your Customers?
Package trips include a complete package of transport, accommodation, and activities. They offer the customer a high level of planning security and are often more cost-effective than booking the components individually. Modular trips, on the other hand, allow the customer to assemble individual elements of their trip themselves. This offers greater flexibility but also requires more initiative in planning. Both models are suitable for outdoor activities, depending on whether the customer prefers an all-inclusive package or a tailor-made arrangement. Tour operators compile and market tourism packages, bearing the financial risk.
Vertical and Horizontal Integration: Strategically Planning Growth
Vertical integration means that a tour operator runs its own services such as accommodation or transport. This allows for greater control over quality and costs but also presents risks such as high investments and lack of flexibility. Horizontal integration, however, means that a tour operator acquires or merges with other companies in the same industry. This enables an expansion of the offering and strengthening of market position. Outdoor tour operators should carefully assess these strategies to support their growth. Outdoor tour operators should evaluate these growth strategies, considering the acquisition of smaller, specialised operators or the integration of key services.
Virtual Business Models: Flexibility as an Asset
Virtual business models are characterised by a tour operator owning few resources and instead relying on a network of external service providers. This allows for high flexibility and low fixed costs. The focus is on core competencies such as travel planning, marketing, and customer service. Outdoor tour operators can benefit from this model by sourcing accommodation, transport, and guides from external providers. Tour operators are prototypes of virtual companies. This is of high relevance for outdoor tour operators, who often rely on external providers.
Agency Contracts: Clear Rules for Cooperation
Agency contracts regulate the cooperation between a tour operator and a travel agency or other intermediary. They define the commissions, responsibilities, and rights of both parties. A formal agreement is important to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. This is especially true for outdoor tour operators, who often work with specialised agencies to reach niche markets. A formal agency contract is crucial when engaging independent agents, defining commissions and responsibilities.
Sustainability pays off: Responsibility in Outdoor Tourism
Sustainability Pays Off: Responsibility in Outdoor Tourism
Sustainability and responsibility are playing an increasingly important role in outdoor tourism. Travellers value environmentally friendly options and want to protect nature. As an outdoor tour operator, you can contribute to environmental protection with sustainable practices, while also enhancing your competitiveness.
Environmental Awareness and 'Undertourism': Less is More
Environmental awareness is a key factor in choosing destinations and tour operators. Many travellers prefer destinations that are committed to environmental protection and promote sustainable tourism practices. The trend towards 'undertourism', avoiding overcrowded destinations, is also gaining importance. By offering less known travel destinations and minimising the environmental impact of your trips, you can attract environmentally conscious customers. Outdoor tourism is associated with a growing awareness of environmental issues and promotes 'undertourism' by steering travellers away from crowded destinations.
Sustainable Tourism Practices: Responsible Travel
Sustainable tourism practices encompass a variety of measures aimed at minimising the negative impacts of tourism on the environment and local populations. These include reducing energy and water consumption, avoiding waste, promoting public transport, and supporting local businesses. By offering eco-friendly travel options and integrating environmental awareness into your offerings, you can raise your customers' awareness of the issue and encourage them to interact responsibly with nature. Integrate environmental awareness and sustainability into outdoor tourism offerings to align yourself with the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly travel options.
Collaboration with Local Communities: Creating Authentic Experiences
Collaboration with local communities is another key aspect of sustainability in outdoor tourism. By offering authentic and immersive experiences that reflect local culture and lifestyle, you can provide added value to your customers while supporting the regional economy. This can be achieved, for example, by including local guides, using local accommodations, and promoting local products. Work with local communities and businesses, to create authentic and immersive outdoor experiences that showcase the region's culture and natural beauty.
Gaining Customers: Effective Marketing Strategies for Outdoor Tour Operators
Customer Acquisition: Effective Marketing Strategies for Outdoor Tour Operators
To successfully attract customers, you, as an Outdoor Tour Operator, need a well-thought-out marketing strategy. Here, you'll learn how to reach your target audiences and present your offerings optimally.
Targeted Communication: Know Your Customers
A targeted approach is crucial for reaching potential customers. By tailoring your marketing messages to the specific needs and interests of your target groups, you can increase the likelihood of them being interested in your offerings. This could be achieved, for instance, by developing special women’s or family trips. Tour operators should analyze booking patterns to proactively adapt itineraries and marketing strategies to align with emerging trends.
Digital Marketing Channels: Be Visible Online
Digital marketing channels are increasingly important for customer acquisition. Using social media and search engine optimization (SEO) is essential for being visible online and attracting potential customers to your offerings. Content marketing and storytelling can also help spark interest among your target groups and build an emotional connection to your brand. Use digital marketing channels to promote outdoor tourism offerings and reach a broader audience of potential travellers.
Flexibility and Customer Service: Satisfied Customers are Loyal Customers
Flexibility and customer service are important factors for customer satisfaction and loyalty. By offering adaptable booking and cancellation conditions and maintaining high-quality standards and safety protocols, you can gain your customers' trust and encourage them to book with you again. Offer flexible booking and cancellation conditions to address travellers' concerns regarding uncertainties and potential travel disruptions.
Securing the Future: Challenges and Opportunities for Outdoor Tour Operators
Securing the Future: Challenges and Opportunities for Outdoor Tour Operators
The future of outdoor tourism presents both challenges and opportunities for outdoor tour operators. To succeed, it is important to adapt to changes and develop innovative solutions.
External Shocks and Risk Management: Being Prepared for the Unexpected
External shocks such as extreme weather events and natural disasters can significantly impact outdoor tourism. To minimize these risks, comprehensive risk management is required. This can be achieved through the diversification of offerings and destinations. Outdoor tour operators need to have robust emergency plans to handle disruptions caused by weather, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events.
Technological Developments: Harnessing Innovation
Technological developments such as e-bikes and digital navigation open up new possibilities for outdoor tourism. They enable reaching new target groups and expanding the offerings. Additionally, automation and intelligent systems can help increase efficiency and reduce costs. Outdoor tour operators should consider expanding e-bike tours, developing routes in cooler or less-visited areas, and offering packages focused on observing natural phenomena.
Securing Competitive Advantages: Providing Added Value
To remain competitive, it is essential to stand out from the competition and provide added value for customers. This can be achieved through excellent customer service, innovative offerings, or sustainable business practices. Customer feedback and data analysis can also help identify strengths and weaknesses and continuously improve offerings. Backroads' emphasis on listening to guests and tracking booking patterns for 45 years highlights the importance of customer feedback and data-driven decision-making in maintaining a competitive edge.
Your next adventure awaits: How to find the ideal outdoor tour operator
Your Next Adventure Awaits: How to Find the Ideal Outdoor Tour Operator
Are you ready for your next outdoor adventure? With the right information and careful planning, you can find the outdoor tour operator that perfectly suits your needs. Embark on your unforgettable experience now!
Step 1: Define Your Needs and Expectations
Before you start looking for an outdoor tour operator, carefully consider what you expect from your trip. What type of activities do you want to engage in? What kind of accommodation do you prefer? How much budget do you have available? The more precisely you define your needs, the easier it will be to find the right provider.
Step 2: Research and Compare Different Providers
Use the internet to research various outdoor tour operators and compare their offerings. Pay attention to the offered activities, destinations, prices, reviews from other customers, and sustainability standards. Read the terms and conditions carefully and check if the provider has adequate insurance.
Step 3: Contact the Provider and Ask Questions
If you've found one or more interesting outdoor tour operators, contact them and ask your questions. Clarify any uncertainties and ensure that the provider can meet your needs and expectations. Ask for references and, if necessary, request a personalised offer.
Step 4: Book Your Trip and Look Forward to Your Adventure
Once you've decided on an outdoor tour operator, you can book your trip. Carefully read the booking confirmation and travel documents, and inform yourself about the necessary preparations. Pack your gear and look forward to your unforgettable outdoor adventure!
Create personalised outdoor experiences
Tailor Your Outdoor Experiences
The world of outdoor tourism is diverse, offering countless opportunities to create unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer, there's a trip suited for everyone. Proper planning and selecting the right outdoor tour operator are crucial to meet your personal wants and needs.
Diverse Outdoor Activities: Find Your Favourite
The range of outdoor activities is vast, from relaxing hikes in picturesque landscapes to challenging climbing tours in the mountains. Water sports like kayaking, rafting, or canyoning are also hugely popular. For adrenaline junkies, there are options such as bungee jumping, skydiving, or mountain biking on challenging trails. The variety of activities allows you to tailor your journey to your preferences.
Personalised Travel Planning: Your Adventure, Your Rules
A good outdoor tour operator stands out by accommodating your individual wishes and needs, assisting you in planning your trip. They advise you on choosing activities, destinations, and accommodations and create a personalised offer. They also support you with the organisation of transport, guides, and equipment. This ensures your journey is perfectly tailored to you.
Unforgettable Experiences: More Than Just a Holiday
Outdoor tourism provides you with the opportunity to collect unforgettable experiences in nature. You can learn about new cultures, discover stunning landscapes, and engage in physical activities. The challenges you overcome during your journey enhance your self-confidence and resilience. The memories of your outdoor adventures will accompany and inspire you for a long time.
Government subsidies for sustainable travel offer an excellent opportunity to invest in environmentally friendly and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether it's a guided hike in the Alps or a cycling tour along the coast, the available grant programs make switching to sustainable travel options attractive and financially feasible.
With a variety of grant programs, there are numerous ways to reduce the costs of eco-friendly outdoor activities. We offer you comprehensive advice and support in selecting the right trip, meeting funding conditions, and navigating the application process.
By choosing sustainable outdoor experiences, you invest in the future of our planet. You not only reduce your ecological footprint but also support local communities and the conservation of nature.
Now is the perfect time to explore the funding opportunities for your next trip. Contact us today to start your personalised consultation and quickly and easily apply for funding. Register for free to receive an immediate first assessment for the funding opportunities of your dream trip.
Further useful links
Backroads forecasts key trends in active travel for 2025, including the growth of women's travel and alpine hiking experiences.
Adventure Travel News analyses travel trends for 2025, focusing on unique experiences, health-conscious activities, and ecotourism.
Skift highlights seven sector trends in adventure tourism for 2024, including the growing interest in Northern European destinations.
Gabler Wirtschaftslexikon defines the term tour operator and explains various business models and strategies in tourism.
FAQ
What defines an outdoor tour operator?
An outdoor tour operator specialises in active experiences in nature such as hiking, climbing, cycling, or canoeing. They often offer tailor-made trips and work with approved providers for a safe and unforgettable adventure.
Who are outdoor trips suitable for?
Outdoor trips are ideal for adventurous individual travellers, luxury travellers seeking something special, sports and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as exclusive group travellers looking for customised experiences.
What advantages do specialised outdoor tour operators offer?
Specialised outdoor tour operators offer exclusivity and individuality through tailor-made adventure trips, collaborate with approved providers, and provide luxurious experiences with premium comfort.
What are the trends in outdoor tourism for 2024/2025?
Top trends include hiking and trekking trips, cycling tours with e-bikes, the popularity of Northern Europe as a destination, winter travel, and trips to natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights.
How do I find the right outdoor tour operator for my needs?
Define your needs and expectations, research and compare different providers, contact the provider and ask questions, and book your trip once you’ve clarified all doubts.
What role does sustainability play in outdoor tourism?
Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role. Look for eco-friendly options, 'undertourism' (avoiding overcrowded destinations), and collaboration with local communities.
What marketing strategies are particularly effective for outdoor tour operators?
A targeted approach, use of digital marketing channels, and emphasis on flexibility and customer service are crucial for success.
How can outdoor tour operators protect against external shocks?
Comprehensive risk management, diversification of offerings and destinations, and leveraging technological developments are important measures.
