Austin Adventures
Website: http://www.austinadventures.com
The story of Austin Adventures is really about founder Dan Austin and his passion to create the world’s best active travel company. For a legacy dating back over 40 years, Dan has sharing his love of adventure with each and every guest. Austin Adventures' longtime insider's knowledge and extensive contacts in each destination they visit allow them to offer cultural and artistic experiences and encounters that give their guests a much more in-depth feel for the local people and their way of life.
Many companies may cover the world, but AA focuses solely on The Americas, Africa and Europe. They just want to be the best wherever they go. Itineraries are designed to deliver surprising luxury with an absence of pretension. They have done their research and know the best accommodations in each region to rest and recharge. Whether you dine in a 5 star restaurant or are served campfire-side, you will enjoy the finest local cuisine and wines, artfully prepared and deliciously sinful. You are a VIP with Austin Adventures and they promise to deliver on each traveler’s high standards for luxury, quality and comfort.
Activities and Destinations
BIKE / CULTURAL TOURS Asia / Pacific
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Europe
- Austria
- France
- Germany
- Holland
- Italy
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Europe
MULTI-SPORT / CULTURAL / NATIONAL PARK TOURS
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Africa
- South Africa – Kruger NP
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Central America
- Costa Rica – Corcovado and Tortuguero NP
- Mexico – Baja, Oaxaca and Chiapas
- Panama
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US & Canada - Mountain West
- Alberta – Banff NP
- Montana – Yellowstone NP
- Wyoming – Grand Teton NP
- South Dakota – Badlands NP
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US Pacific Coast
- California – Yosemite NP
- Oregon – Crater Lake NP
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US & Canada - Northwest
- Alaska – Glacier Bay NP & Kenai Fjords NP
- BC – Okanagan Valley
- BC – Vancouver Island – Pacific Rim NP
- BC - Whistler
- Washington – North Cascades NP
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US Southwest
- Arizona – Grand Canyon NP
- New Mexico
- Utah – Bryce & Zion NP
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South America
- Ecuador – Galapagos NP
- Peru – Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca
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Africa
FAMILY MULTI-SPORT / CULTURAL TOURS
- Alaska
- Austria
- Canadian Rockies
- Costa Rica
- France (Loire)
- Galapagos
- Germany (Mosel)
- Grand Canyon (Havasu)
- Holland
- Panama
- South Africa
- Vancouver Island (BC)
- Yellowstone National Park
- Yosemite National Park
- Whistler (BC)
FOOD & WINE / MULTI-SPORT / CULTURAL TOURS
- France
- Germany
- Mexico (Chiapas and Oaxaca)
- Tuscany
- Canada (Okanagan Valley)
SAFARI / NATURAL WORLD EXPLORATIONS
- Galapagos
- South Africa
- Zambia
Austin Adventures Announces Portfolio of 2011 Active Vacations
- Details
- Released on Wednesday, 15 December 2010 11:27
Billings, MT, DEC 15, 2010 - Austin Adventures has revealed its most diverse collection of active adventures to date. In it’s just released catalog, the award-winning adventure travel company showcases tours in 28 countries, including new for 2011, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and South Pacific in addition to the Americas, Europe and Africa.
New for 2011, Austin Adventures (http://www.austinlehman.com/) has grouped their offerings into three distinct categories; Adventure Vacations, Biking Tours and Family Vacations. Each and every trip underscores getting to know a destination on well-paced explorations rather than a “London today and Rome tomorrow” approach to travel. As a result, the readers of Travel+Leisure Magazine for two years running have named ALA in the first and second places as Best Tour Operator in the World.
Following is an overview of where and when Austin Adventures will travel in 2011 and with what type of tour. (**Indicates new for 2011.) For more details, please request the company’s 2011 Vacations catalog, 82 well-designed, informative pages that will whet anybody’s wanderlust for travel. Call 800-575-1540 or visit http://www.austinlehman.com/pages/request_a_catalog/158.php.
Austin Adventures in North America– March through October
Alaska -- Kenai Peninsula: Adventure, Family
Arizona -- Grand Canyon/Sedona and Havasupai Waterfalls: Adventure
**California -- Yosemite: Family
Canada -- Whistler (British Columbia) and Banff to Jasper (Alberta): Adventure, Family
**Idaho – Salmon River: Family
Montana -- Big Sky, Yellowstone, Paradise Valley: Adventure, Family
Montana -- Glacier National Park: Adventure
South Dakota – Black Hills: Biking
Utah --Bryce and Zion National Parks: Adventure, **Family
Utah -- Arches to Moab: Adventure
**Washington – San Juan Islands: Adventure
Wyoming -- Yellowstone and the Tetons: Adventure, Family
**Wyoming -- Jackson Hole with the Tetons: Adventure
Austin Adventures South of the Border– Throughout the Year
**Belize -- Maya to Moho Cay: Adventure
**Chile/Argentina -- Patagonia: Adventure
Costa Rica -- Arenal to Tortuguero: Adventure
Costa Rica -- Cloud Forest to Pacific Beaches: Family
Ecuador -- Galapagos Islands Cruise and **Land-Based Lodges: Adventure, Family
Peru -- **Amazon to Machu Picchu in addition to Salkantay Lodge to Lodge: Adventure
Austin Adventures’s Africa– Throughout the Year
South Africa -- Cape Town to Kruger: Adventure
**Southern Africa -- Zambezi to Victoria Falls: Family
**Morocco -- Fez to Marrakech: Adventure
**Namibia – Etosha to Okaukuejo: Adventure
Austin Adventures in Europe– April into October
Austria -- Alps to Salzburg: Adventure, Family
Austria/Czech Republic – Vienna to Prague: Biking
**Croatia – Dalmatian Coast: Adventure
**Denmark – Danish Isles: Biking
France -- Loire Valley: Family, Biking
France – Provence: Biking
Germany -- Mosel Valley: Family, Biking
Germany – The Romantic Road: Biking
Greece -- Athens to the Cyclades: Adventure
Holland -- Haarlem to Odoorn: Family, Biking
Holland/Belgium – Brussels to Gent: Biking
Italy – Tuscany: Biking
**Italy/Austria – Innsbruck to Lake Garda: Biking
**Slovenia – Julian Alps: Biking
Switzerland/Germany – Lake Constance to Zurich: Biking
Two New and Exciting Destinations from Austin Adventures
**Israel/Jordan-- Tel Aviv to Petra: Adventure (Throughout the Year)
**New Zealand-- South Island: Adventure (November-March)
Detailed itineraries, maps, accommodation profiles and tour highlights are available online at: http://www.austinlehman.com/.
Director Dan Austin reports that early bookings are strong and 2011 is promising to be a banner year for Austin Adventures. If you have not yet received your 2011 catalog please email a request to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
About Austin Adventures
Ranked number one as the “World’s Best Tour Operator” in 2009 by readers of Travel and Leisure Magazine, Austin Adventures, with a 36-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe and southern Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. Founders Dan Austin and Paul Lehman believe the best way to enjoy a destination is to experience it as a local; close-up, at one’s own pace far off the usual tourist track. In addition to its scheduled group departures, ALA also offers customized trip planning for families, solo travelers and adults. To back up its strong commitment to the highest levels of guest service, ALA offers all its travelers a money back guarantee, a rarity among adventure travel companies.
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Just Announced - Austin Adventures’ Alaska Tour Will Change Your Life
- Details
- Released on Thursday, 04 November 2010 13:44
Travel + Leisure’s “Best Life-Changing Trips” Includes ALA’s Kenai Peninsula Adventure in Roundup of Twenty-Two Horizon Expanding Tours
Billings, MT, November 4, 2010 – The company that has been named the “World’s Best Tour Operator” for two years running by Travel + Leisure Magazine has just received another award from its editors. Austin Adventures’ (http://www.austinlehman.com/) Alaska Kenai Peninsula Adventure has been recognized as one of the “Best Life-Changing Trips” worldwide.
In the November edition as well as online (http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/best-life-changing-trips/3) the magazine showcases 22 “trips of a lifetime” including; a fight to the bottom of the world, a private expedition to see emperor penguins, a kite-skiing excursion across an icy horizon, a luxury tent camp atop a 200-foot icefall, and Austin Adventures’s insider’s tour of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.
“We are honored by this lofty recognition,” said Dan Austin, Co-Founder and Director. “But the editors are dead-on with their choice. I don’t know of any other tour of ours that receives more glowing testimonials from awe-struck guests than our Alaska Kenai Peninsula adventure.”
According to the magazine, “On this action-packed wilderness trip, you’ll spot whales and porpoises from a kayak, watch icebergs calve with a glacier expert, hike to North America’s largest ice field, and pedal past wildflower-strewn meadows and valleys. Plus, a marine biologist will bring you behind the scenes at a sea-life rehab center,” wrote Peter Frank.
A special date for Travel + Leisure readers has been set for June 19–24, 2011 priced at $2,998 per person (double occupancy) for the six day adventure. Additional departure dates including special family-focused trips can be booked as well by calling Austin Adventures at 1.800.575.1540. See:
The magazine went on to say, “And more than ever, travelers are looking to be inspired by unique experiences. People want trips that “expand horizons, remove you from your comfort zone, and prompt you to reevaluate what’s important in life.”
About Austin Adventures
Austin Adventures, with a 35-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe, the South Pacific, Middle East and Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. In addition to scheduled group departures, ALA offers customized trip planning. ALA offers each traveler a money back satisfaction guarantee.
For free 2011 catalog call toll-free 1.800.575.1540, or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To review current trips, schedules and itineraries log onto: http://www.austinlehman.com/.
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Austin Adventures Announces 2011 African Adventure Safari Program
- Details
- Released on Monday, 01 November 2010 16:19
Africa Tour Line-up Emphasizes Value and Luxury
Billings, MT, November 2, 2010 – When Travel + Leisure magazine’s World’s Best Safari and Tour OperatorAustin Adventures (http://www.austinlehman.com/) asked its alumni where their number one dream vacation destination was, 80 percent responded: “Africa.” But the survey went on to show that the two things holding most travelers back from taking the African safari were: “the daunting task of planning a vacation in far-off Africa”, and “the historically high cost of such a vacation.”
Austin Adventures claims that it has solved this dilemma through exhaustive research to identify the best receptive operators, guides, camps and itineraries and then working with suppliers direct to avoid having to go through a “middleman” which in the end offers their clients the lowest price and best value possible.
“As we finalized dates and rates for the 2011 Africa safari season,” explains Dan Austin, Co-Founder and Director, “we made the conscious decision to keep our pricing as low as possible to allow more travelers the opportunity to experience the award-winning services of Austin Adventures. Our guests are well traveled and well educated, and when they shop around they will see that ALA offers exceptional value to the consumer.”
It wasn’t all just game viewing, hot tubs and gourmet cuisine while doing the extensive research Austin points out. “When visiting and befriending the communities I visited, I found myself eating Mopane Worms in Windhoek, dining on Wart Hog in Pamwag and sampling Eland in Katima. I hiked, drove, boated and biked my way across five countries all to understand and incorporate what I believe is the best of the best.”
Highlights of Austin Adventures’ 2011 African Adventure Safaris portfolio include:
Africa Family - Zambezi to Victoria Falls
Billed as a “wildlife and waterfall extravaganza” this family-focused 9-Day safari covers portions of four countries by foot, truck, mountain bike, macoro and houseboat. Memorable moments include visiting with teachers and children at a local school in Namibia, cruising by deluxe houseboat along the Zambezi and Chobe rivers, a Big Five game drive in Chobe National Park,
mountain biking based from ALA’s sponsored Bicycles For Humanity Bicycle Empowerment Center in Ngoma, and getting wet from the mist of Victoria Falls. 9 Days from $3,898 per person, double occupancy. 2011 Schedule: Trips depart weekly with a minimum of just four participants, call 800-575-1540 for details and availability.
SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE TOWN TO KRUGER
http://www.austinlehman.com/trips/south_africa___cape_town_to_kruger/45.php
http://www.austinlehman.com/trips/south_africa___cape_town_to_kruger/45.php
This family-friendly adventure starts in Cape Town and ends in Kruger National Park, where open vehicles and bush walks get you up-close with Africa's abundant wildlife, including giraffe, zebra, lion, hippo and rhino. Focused on South Africa adventure travel home-grown guides proudly share the region’s wealth of natural beauty, culture and heritage. Ride a tram up Table Mountain, visit Nelson Mandela's prison cell on Robben Island, pedal from Stellenbosch into Africa's rolling wine country, kayak with African penguins, float an arm's length from a 50-ton Southern Right Whale and ride horseback through coastal forests of fynbos. At night, guests will enjoy South Africa's fine regional cuisine before retreating to a luxury guesthouse or game preserve lodge. 11 Days from $6,268 per person, double occupancy. 2011 trip dates: Feb. 20-Mar. 2 (Family Trip), Jul. 31-Aug. 10, and Sep. 11-Sep 21.
Namibia - Etosha to Okuakuejo
http://www.austinlehman.com/trips/namibia___etosha_to_okuakuejo/100.php
http://www.austinlehman.com/trips/namibia___etosha_to_okuakuejo/100.php
Sweeping deserts, traditional culture and remarkable flora and fauna mark this Namibian safari. Highlights include; tracking the desert-adapted black rhino, elephant, zebra, giraffe and kudu and predators such as lion, cheetah, leopard and spotted hyena on a 4x4 safari on the Palmwag Concession, relaxing under the swaying palms of a desert oasis, viewing bushmen engravings at the Living Museum of the Damara, getting up-close with cheetah and leopard on a visit to AfriCat, a foundation that’s rescued over 1000 predators over the past 17 years and dining in an open-air lapa at Okonjima’s luxury bush camp. 10 Days from $6,798 per person, double occupancy. 2011 trip dates: Apr. 10-Apr. 19, Jun. 19-Jun. 28, and Oct. 23-Nov. 1.
About Austin Adventures
Austin Adventures, with a 35-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe, the South Pacific, Middle East and Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. In addition to scheduled group departures, ALA offers customized trip planning. ALA offers each traveler a money back satisfaction guarantee.
For free 2011 catalog call toll-free 1.800.575.1540, or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To review current trips, schedules and itineraries log onto: http://www.austinlehman.com/.
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Austin Adventures Explores New Horizons in 2011 with Active Israel and Morocco Adventure Tours
- Details
- Released on Tuesday, 05 October 2010 13:45
Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” Operator Responds to Client Dream List Wishes -
Breaks New Ground in Luxury Multisport Adventure
Billings, MT, October 6, 2010 – The active travel company that set the adventure tour standard in Yellowstone National Park and then took their winning formula to Europe, Africa and beyond just released its 2011 catalog that includes two new groundbreaking tours in Israel and Morocco. Clients of Austin Adventures have been asking for these “dream” destinations for years and the tour company responded with Israel & Jordan - Tel Aviv to Petra and Morocco - Fez to Marrakech.
“2011 is poised to be an exciting year for Austin Lehman Adventures,” predicts Dan Austin, Co-Founder and Director. “2010 saw double digit growth in all regions and gave us the confidence to finalize years of trip development to some of the most exciting destination on the planet.”
Dan explains that it always begins with a survey of ALA’s past alumni and their dream list responses of where they most want to go in the future. Then it takes hundreds of hours of research, negotiations, itinerary development and site visits to create a new tour. But the key element is value and tour pricing that puts a superior product below that of the competition.
“As we finalized rates and dates for 2011, we made the conscious decision to keep our pricing as low as possible to allow more travelers the opportunity to experience the world of Austin Adventures,” explained Austin. “Our guests are well traveled, well educated, and savvy shoppers. When they check around they will see that ALA has not only been acknowledged as one of the Best Tour Operators in the World, but that we do what we do with exceptional value.”
Of the 18 new itineraries and destinations being offered in 2011, Austin Adventures’ http://www.austinlehman.com/ the Israel & Jordan and Morocco trips might be the company’s most ambitious to date, Austin claims.
Israel & Jordan - Tel Aviv to Petra is a “Step back in time as you explore a land steeped in culture, history and mysticism,” as described in the new 84-page catalog. Groups of no more than 12 participants will journey to the city of Jerusalem, explore the mountain refuge of Masada, and tour the ancient synagogues of Galilee and the sandstone “Red Rose” city of Petra by foot, camel and Segway on this 10 day/9 night active adventure. The Israel adventure tour is priced at $5,898 per person. Singles requesting private accommodations pay $1,380 extra and the price for children 12 and older is $5,308.
2011 Dates are May 08-17, Jun 12-21*, Jul 10-19*, Sep 04-13, and Dec 18-27 (* specifies a family departure). See: http://www.austinlehman.com/trips/israel_jordan___tel_aviv_to_petra/55.php
Morocco - Fez to Marrakech “Kasbahs, Camels and Souks” takes guests from the imperial cities of Fez and Meknes to the desert sands of the Sahara. Along the way the catalog promises that travelers will soak up Morocco’s finest souks and Kasbahs, local Berber culture and the spectacular High Atlas scenery on foot, camel, bike and four-wheel vehicle. This 11 day /10 night North African adventure designed for adults-only runs $5,498 per person ($1,580 single supplement). The 2011 dates are: Apr 18-28, May 02-12, Sep 19-29, and Oct 03-13.
About Austin Adventures
Austin Adventures, with a 35-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe and Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. In addition to scheduled group departures, ALA offers customized trip planning. ALA offers each traveler a money back satisfaction guarantee.
For free 2011 catalog call toll-free 1.800.575.1540, or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To review current trips, schedules and itineraries log onto: http://www.austinlehman.com/.
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French Wines, Apollo’s Temple, UNESCO Heritage Sites Attract Fall Travelers to Austin Adventures’s Cultural Cycling Adventures
- Details
- Released on Tuesday, 17 August 2010 14:51
The Summer Might Be Winding Down but Autumn Travel is Heating Up
For the World’s Top Rated Tour Operator
Billings, MT, August 17, 2010 – It has been a banner year to date for Travel + Leisure’s top rated tour operator Austin Adventures (ALA) (http://www.austinlehman.com/) and the Fall is shaping up to be a record-breaking season.
“People are traveling with renewed gusto again,” reports co-founder and operating director Dan Austin. “Coming off a very strong summer season we are heading into what might be our best Fall ever.”
Austin suggests proper brand and price positioning of ALA’s biking vacations have made all the difference. “While competitors were raising rates and looking where to save a dime we were looking how we could add more depth and value to our Europe bike tours.”
As an example Austin points out their Tuscany: The Heartland Tour which actually came down $300 in price in 2010 from the previous year’s luxury rate. Highlights include Florence and its cobblestone streets and museums, Siena and its marbled Duomo, and San Gimignano surrounded by 14 medieval towers. 2010 Fall tours priced at $3,398 are set for Sep 18-24 and Oct 2-8.
Another one of ALA’s most popular Italy cycling tours is the Veneto's Prosecco, Prawns, Villas & Vistas biking vacation which journeys from the canals of Venice to the foothills of the Dolomites exploring splendid villas and sampling award-winning cuisine along the way. The Sep 25-Oct 2 trip is priced at $3,898 per person (land), all inclusive.
“The beer tastes better in the Czech Republic,” touts the 2010 ALA catalog. On the Vienna to Prague Adventure cyclists can drink in the local color and famous libations while biking along the Danube enroute to Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour is schedule for Sep 4-12 and priced at $3,798 per person.
For wine lovers, France is the destination of choice and ALA’s La Loire: Castles to Coteaux Biking Vacation takes riders from Chateau de Chambord to wine sipping at the world-famous vineyards of Chinon and Cravant. There are still openings on the Sep 18-25 tour priced at $3,698 per person.
New for 2010, a multisport bike, hike and paddle adventure entitled Greek Isles - Sun-Drenched Cyclades is quickly becoming one of the company’s most popular offerings. From the Acropolis of Athens to Santorini, then onto the archeological wonders of the island of Delos, this 10-day tour covers five of Greece's most fabled Cycladic Islands. Space is still available on the Oct 9-18 trip, priced at $4,998 per person.
About Austin Adventures
Austin Adventures, with a 35-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe and Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. In addition to scheduled group departures, ALA offers customized trip planning. ALA offers each traveler a money back satisfaction guarantee.
For free catalog call toll-free 1.800.575.1540, or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To review current trips, schedules and itineraries log onto: http://www.austinlehman.com/.
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Austin Adventures Ranked Again as “World’s Best” In Travel + Leisure’s 15th Annual Readers’ Survey Poll
- Details
- Released on Wednesday, 21 July 2010 10:05
Adventure Travel Specialist Named The No. 2 Tour Operator/Safari Outfitter in the World
Billings, Montana, July 21, 2010 -- For the second consecutive year, Austin Adventures (http://www.austinlehman.com/) was named one of the top two tour operators in the world by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. Finishing in the number one spot in 2009 and the number two spot in 2010, Austin Adventures continues to distinguish itself as the consumer favorite with its active small group adventures that take travelers off the beaten path and provide a highly personal experience.
In the just released August 2010 issue of Travel + Leisure featuring the World’s Best Awards readers’ survey, ALA scored 96.60 out of 100 points – the highest score of any active travel/adventure Tour Operator. Austin Adventures offers 47 trips in North, Central and South America, Europe and Africa.
“We are absolutely delighted to once again be recognized by the discerning readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. It is a tribute to our entire team who work tirelessly to ensure that our guests fully connect with a destination and come back feeling refreshed, revitalized and invigorated. We are committed to making each trip a life changing experience,” said Dan Austin, co-founder and director of Austin Adventures.
“It’s the small touches that are so meaningful,” commented co-founder Paul Lehman. “The black-out sleeping masks in Alaska to cope with 22-hours of sunlight, being wrapped in a warm towel following a rafting trip or enjoying a cup of tea with a Berber family after a vigorous hike in the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. It is our desire to always provide a ‘five-star’ experience even in the middle of the wilderness and we are so gratified that these efforts are being acknowledged.”
For 15 years Travel + Leisure has announced the “World’s Best” awards in their August edition which just hit the newsstands. The entire list can also be found online at http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2010/air-cruise-more/tour-operator-safari-outfitter/30
Austin Adventures destinations include iconic national parks and backcountry regions of North, Central and South America as well as southern Africa and Europe. New trips slated for 2011 include adventure vacations in Morocco, Southern Patagonia in Argentina and Chile, Israel, Namibia and cycling trips in Slovenia and Croatia.
To receive the 2011 catalog due out in October,call toll-free 1-800-575-1540, or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To review current trips, schedules and itineraries go to: http://www.austinlehman.com/.
About Austin Adventures
Ranked as one of the “World’s Best Tour Operators” in 2010 by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine, Austin Adventures offers active, small-group vacations on four continents. With a 35-year legacy, ALA has built an international reputation for adventure travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe and Africa. The company specializes in adventure vacations and biking tours for adults and families that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. In addition to scheduled group departures, ALA provides customized trip planning. ALA offers each traveler a money back satisfaction guarantee.
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Austin Adventures Wows Guests on Multisport Red-Rock Wonders Tour Into Utah’s Bryce and Zion National Parks
- Details
- Released on Tuesday, 13 July 2010 08:51
World’s Best Tour Operator Delivers Daily Surprises Beyond Legendary Scenery and Service
Billings, MT, July 13, 2010 – The readers of Travel + Leisure magazine know how to define excellence when they selected Austin Adventures (http://www.austinlehman.com/) as the Best Tour Operator in the World for 2009 (and 2nd Best for 2010). The company knows how to woo and wow their guests.
The perfect example of this award-winning treatment can be found on their Bryce and Zion National Parks Red-Rock Wonders Tourscheduled annually every Fall. Take for example the fresh trail-churnedice cream surprise which appears like magic from behind a boulder after summiting Angel's Landing in Zion.
“It was something we'll never forget - a gift from the heavens served ice cold as a pair of California condors circled just overhead,” raved Julie Auletta a guest from Virginia.
Austin Adventures makes such “wows” a rule rather than the exception. “Our guests are sophisticated, world travelers who have come to expect things like exceptional service, top equipment and extraordinary guides,” explains Dan Austin, ALA co-founder and director. “Where we like to tantalize and pamper them is with our special over-the-top wows.”
On other Austin Adventures North American national park hiking and biking vacations ( http://www.austinlehman.com/pages/national_park_vacations/117.php)) guests might round a bend in the trail to find a silver tray being passed around with yogurt parfaits and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Or end a long bike ride or hike in a lounge chair next to a baby pool filled with cold water for soaking tired feet.
“One of my favorites takes place on a raft trip just outside of Yellowstone Parkwhere we meet our people with warm towels as they step ashore soaking wet from riding the rapids,” adds Austin.
A specialist in Utah adventure travel, Austin Adventures’s six day/five night Bryce and Zion tour is priced at $1,998 per person, double occupancy ($580 single lodging supplement) which includes first-class accommodations, meals, expert guides, all necessary equipment, entry fees, ground transportation and more. Fall 2010 departures are Sep 26, Oct 3 and Oct 10. See:
About Austin Adventures
Austin Adventures, with a 35-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe and Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. In addition to scheduled group departures, ALA offers customized trip planning. ALA offers each traveler a money back satisfaction guarantee.
For free catalog call toll-free 1.800.575.1540, or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To review current trips, schedules and itineraries log onto: http://www.austinlehman.com/.
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Calling All Aspiring National Park Travelers: There Is “Room at the Inn” This Summer
- Details
- Released on Wednesday, 23 June 2010 12:56
Austin Adventures’ Active National Park Vacations Feature Accommodations
At “Sold-Out” Yellowstone National Park Lodges
Billings, Montana, June 24, 2010 -- For those who have their heart set on a Yellowstone National Park summer vacation but are deterred by sold-out National Park Lodges,Austin Adventures (http://www.austinlehman.com/) still has availability on its exclusive, small-group trips to Yellowstone, where accommodations include Jackson Lake Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Old Faithful Inn.
Thanks to a 35-year-old legacy in operating small-group National Park Vacations, Austin Adventures maintains a block of rooms at these historic and conveniently located lodges, thereby guaranteeing accommodations while providing the opportunity to enjoy an “insider’s” experience at Yellowstone. With more than 282 million visitors expected at the National Parks this summer, the surge in demand for National Park lodging makes Austin Lehman Adventures the best option for national park travel.
These ALA trips currently feature National Park Lodges and have space available:
Yellowstone/Teton National Parks “Best of the West” – A six-day, five-night multi-sport trip featuring accommodations at Old Faithful Inn (1 night), Lake Yellowstone Hotel (1 night) and Jackson Lake Lodge (1 night). Available July 18-23. Adults only.
Montana/Yellowstone “Canyons, Calderas & Cowboys” – A six-day, five-night multisport trip featuring accommodations at Lake Yellowstone Hotel (1 night). Available August 8-13 and August 22-27. Adults only.
Yellowstone “The Serengeti of the American West” – A six-day, five night multisport trip featuring accommodation at Old Faithful Inn (1 night) and Lake Yellowstone Hotel (1 night). Available August 29-September 3, September 5-10 and September 12-17. Adults only.
Yellowstone Family “Geysers & Grizzlies” – A six-day, five- night family vacation featuring accommodation at Old Faithful Inn (1 night), Lake Yellowstone Hotel (1 night) and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel (2 nights). Available July 11-16, July 18-23, August 8-13 and August 15-20. Ideal for families.
Yellowstone/Teton Family “Bull Moose to Bucking Broncos” – A six-day, five-night vacation featuring accommodations at Old Faithful Inn (1 night), Lake Yellowstone Hotel (1 night) and Jackson Lake Lodge (1 night). Available July 25 – 30, August 1-6, August 8-13, August 15-20. Ideal for families.
Montana/Yellowstone “Cowboys, Canyons and Campfires Family Adventures” - A six-day, five-night vacation featuring accommodations at Lake Yellowstone Hotel (1 night). Available August 1-6 and August 15-20. Ideal for families.
For further information, contact Austin Adventures at 1-800-575-1540 or visit www.austinlehman.com
About Austin Adventures
Ranked number one as the “World’s Best Tour Operator” in 2009 by readers of Travel and Leisure Magazine, Austin Adventures, with a 35-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe and Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. Founders Dan Austin and Paul Lehman believe the best way to enjoy a destination is to experience it as a local; close-up, at one’s own pace far off the usual tourist track. In addition to its scheduled group departures, ALA also offers customized trip planning for families, solo travelers and adults. To back up its strong commitment to the highest levels of guest service, ALA offers all its travelers a money back guarantee, a rarity among adventure travel companies.
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Newly Designated Hall of Fame Trail a Highlight of Austin Adventures’ Black Hills Bike Tour
- Details
- Released on Monday, 07 June 2010 08:52
Six Day Adventure Includes Pedaling Scenic Section of South Dakota’s Mickelson Trail Recently Honored as One of the Nation’s Best by Rails-To-Trails Conservancy
BILLINGS, MT, June 7, 2010 – Guests this fall on Austin Adventures Black Hills Biking Adventure will have the chance to ride one of America’s top pathways - The George Mickelson Recreation Trail. In May, the trail was given Hall of Fame distinction by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nonprofit group that promotes turning abandoned railroad lines into recreation trails.
In 2007, RTC began canvassing the country to spotlight 25 of the most memorable and influential rail-trails as part of the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame. The 119-mile long Mickelson Trail was the 15th recreational right-of-way to be so named.
The trail follows the historic Deadwood to Edgemont Burlington northern rail line, which serviced gold country for nearly a century. The line was abandoned in 1983 and, thanks to the vision of George S. Mickelson (then Governor of South Dakota), it was converted into a recreational pathway for cyclists, hikers, cross-country skiers and equestrians.
On Day Two of Austin Adventures Adventure’s six-day South Dakota vacation package guests will spend a full day exploring the trail from Deadwood to the town of Custer, SD. “The route takes us south through the heart of the Black Hills,” explains Dan Austin, ALA’s co-founder and director. ”Following easy grades and gently rolling terrain we’ll cross over more than 100 historic railroad bridges and pass through four rock tunnels. We even have the option to shuttle the few uphill stretches if desired.”
Additional tour highlights include exploring the historic Old West gaming town of Deadwood, hiking the base of Mount Rushmore, a tour of the Crazy Horse Monument, and a visit to Wind Cave National Park. Guests enjoy nights in a series of distinctive lodges and inns and all meals, ground transportation, guides, bikes and equipment are provided.
The all-inclusive per person, double occupancy rate is $1,998 ($580 single supplement), representing one of ALA’s best values for the 2010 season. Packages begin and end in Rapid City with fall departures set for Sept. 5, 12 and 19. See:
For further information on Austin Adventures’ biking vacations, or to book the Black Hills adventure, contact Austin Adventures at 1-800-575-1540 or visit http://www.austinlehman.com/.
About Austin Adventures
Ranked number one as the “World’s Best Tour Operator” in 2009 by readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine, Austin Adventures, with a 35-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe and Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. In addition to scheduled group departures, ALA offers customized trip planning. ALA offers each traveler a money back satisfaction guarantee.
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Austin Adventures Invites Adventure Travel Enthusiasts to Help “Preserve a Park”
- Details
- Released on Wednesday, 20 January 2010 15:23
Billings, Montana, Jan 20, 2010 - Austin Adventures (ALA - http://www.austinlehman.com/), a leader in active vacations in the Americas, Europe and Africa, has selected Glacier National Park and the Glacier National Park Fund, as the beneficiary of its first annual “Preserve a Park” program for 2010, the year of the park’s celebrated 100th anniversary.
“Preserve a Park”is the platform for ALA’s newly established conservation and educational initiative, an ongoing program that will be aligned with a different national park each year. The company will provide financial contributions to an organization that best supports that designated park, while featuring an educational experience for guests who book one of the tour company’s “Preserve a Park” trips.
This year, ALA will donate $100 per guest from each Glacier Park vacation tour it runs to the Glacier National Park Fund (http://www.glacierfund.org/), a 501 (c)(3)organization that supports the ongoing and future preservation of Glacier National Park’s natural beauty and cultural heritage by fostering public awareness and encouraging private philanthropy. For 2010, ALA offers three, six-day / five-night trips to Glacier Park during its centennial year as a national park: August 1-6, August 8-13, and August 15-20; price per person is $2498.
Collaborating with the Glacier National Park Fund and local experts on such topics as glacier activity, history and wildlife, the ALA Glacier National Park vacation will feature an educational element woven throughout the week, including an afternoon or evening with the experts from Glacier National Park Fund to enrich the trip experience. In 1850, Glacier National Park had 150 glaciers spread over its acreage and today only 26 survive. Guests will learn from active travelers and local experts, intimately familiar with the park’s challenges and rewards and can offer special insights.
A UNESCO World Heritage site and, coupled with Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada, the worlds’ first Peace Park, Glacier National Park is an adventurer’s paradise known to Native Americans as the “Backbone of the World”. It preserves over one million acres of glacier-carved terrain that encompasses old growth forest, alpine lakes, rugged mountains and sweeping meadows of wildflowers. Travelers bike, hike and raft through the Park’s less traveled trails and most famous routes, including the celebrated Going-to-the-Sun Road (one of North America’s most scenic roads and an 11-year building feat), and savor an up-close look at the park’s wildlife, natural wonders and awe-inspiring yet threatened glaciers.
According to Dan Austin, co-founder of Austin Adventures, “Our national park vacations (http://www.austinlehman.com/pages/national_park_vacations/117.php) have been our most popular, and they also represent opportunities to express our support for safeguarding our great parks. We chose Glacier National Park to acknowledge its centennial and we are delighted to name the Glacier National Park Fund as the recipient of our donation.”
For further information on Austin Adventures’ “Preserve a Park” program, or to book the Glacier National Park vacation, contact Austin Adventures at 1-800-575-1540 or visit http://www.austinlehman.com/.
About Austin Adventures
Ranked number one as the “World’s Best Tour Operator” in 2009 by readers of Travel and Leisure Magazine, Austin Adventures, with a 35-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on four continents. ALA has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe and southern Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture, and geography’s natural beauty. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. Founders Dan Austin and Paul Lehman believe the best way to enjoy a destination is to experience it as a local; close-up, at one’s own pace far off the usual tourist track. In addition to its scheduled group departures, ALA also offers customized trip planning for families, solo travelers and adults. To back up its strong commitment to the highest levels of guest service, ALA offers all its travelers a money back guarantee, a rarity among adventure travel companies
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