REI Adventures Announces New Trips for 2012

REI Adventures, a leader in guided global active adventure travel, has announced its 2012 lineup of new trips that will take travelers around the world to unforgettable destinations for once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From hiking and ice climbing to cycling and snowshoeing, REI’s new itineraries give travelers an opportunity to explore the rich culture, delicious cuisine and fascinating landscapes in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring places.

The REI Adventures team has once again raised the bar in experiential travel by providing guests the opportunity to hike an ancient pilgrimage route from Umbria to Rome, rock climb the world-class “Gunks” of New York, cycle the scenic San Juan Islands, eco-camp in Chile or explore the flora and fauna as they traverse the remote east coast of Tasmania.

In 2012, families can look forward to the Machu Picchu Adventure, a chance to explore the “Lost City of the Incas” together. During this unforgettable trip, families will hike the preserved ruins of South America’s oldest city, raft the Urubamba River, visit a planetarium that displays the constellations of the Southern hemisphere, take a weaving lesson with the Quechua people of Chinchero and enjoy a Peruvian cooking class.

The 2012 REI Adventures programs have been developed carefully by REI’s knowledgeable and experienced staff to deliver extraordinary local access for the most authentic experience possible. For each adventure, REI incorporates local resources and businesses as well as the destination’s unique specialties. The trips are designed to foster meaningful interaction with local inhabitants, enhance understanding of regional customs and culture, and adhere to the Leave No Trace principles.

“Our team is thrilled to share our new trips for 2012 with our members and travelers,” said Cynthia Dunbar, manager of REI Adventures. “Our experts and guides are dedicated to developing and hosting the most authentic, educational and inspirational trips in the market and we are pleased to have the opportunity to share new itineraries to some of our classic destinations as well as exciting, culturally-rich itineraries to new locales around the globe.”

With more than 140 different trips that offer adventures on every continent, REI Adventures provides travelers the journey of a lifetime. Paired with local guides fluent in the area’s history and traditions, guests are immersed in the natural beauty and culture of each destination and enjoy chance encounters with wildlife, conversations with local residents, camaraderie with active like-minded travelers and more. Guides are dedicated to making each trip truly memorable and orchestrate the intricate balance of thorough planning and a willingness to embrace the impromptu. Trips include most meals and the necessary equipment travelers need to comfortably enjoy their experience such as kayaks, tents and high-end bicycle options.

New 2012 trips are ready for booking immediately. Each trip, rated on a scale of one (relaxed) – five (strenuous), varies by activity level so adventurers can easily find a trip best suited for them. REI Adventures offers active vacations family adventures, weekend getaways, volunteer expeditions and more. For a more intimate experience with a select group of people, guests can also book private departure of many of our trips for events such as family reunions, girlfriend getaways or corporate retreats. Travelers that book any new REI trip between Oct. 15 – Dec. 31, 2011 will also receive a $50 REI gift card.

About REI Adventures:

Award-winning REI Adventures has been a global leader in worldwide guided active adventure programs since 1987. The company offers unique itineraries focused on sustainable, human-powered outdoor adventure including: hiking, biking, kayaking, climbing and more. Guests will experience iconic destinations as guides take them off the “beaten path,” and provide opportunities to explore a destination, get to know the local people, their culture, the flora and fauna and discover things they would not be able to duplicate on their own or with another travel company. REI members receive a special discount price on most trips. For more information, full itineraries and trip reviews provided by guests, visit www.rei.com/adventures.

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