Intrepid Travel is stepping deeper into Australia’s rugged heartlands with the acquisition of Wild Bush Luxury, a move that cements the company as a major force in premium walking and nature-based adventures across the country.
The deal, announced this week and set for completion in February 2026, brings some of Australia’s most celebrated guided walks and eco-lodge experiences under the Intrepid banner — a win for travellers seeking immersive, low-impact wilderness journeys.
Iconic walks join the adventure lineup
The acquisition includes a trio of standout experiences across South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory. Among them are the Arkaba Walk through the ancient ridgelines of the Flinders Ranges, The Maria Island Walk known for its coastal beauty and wildlife encounters, and Bamurru Plains, an exclusive safari lodge on the edge of Kakadu National Park.
Between them, these properties represent two Great Walks of Australia and two Luxury Lodges of Australia — a significant strengthening of Intrepid’s domestic offering for travellers craving remote, meaningful immersion in wild places.
Intrepid ANZ Managing Director Brett Mitchell said the move supports the company’s long-term vision to lead low-impact travel within Australia.
“Travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful, immersive ways to connect with Australia’s landscapes, culture and wildlife. By adding these iconic walks and eco-luxury lodges to our portfolio, we’re expanding the premium, low-impact travel options available to them,” he said.
Experience Co refocuses while Intrepid accelerates
While Wild Bush Luxury has long been part of Experience Co’s stable, CEO John O’Sullivan said the company is now shifting toward scalable adventure products such as marine, treetop and skydiving experiences. He acknowledged that Intrepid’s global reputation for responsible travel made the business the right custodian for the future of these wilderness properties.
“This is a positive move for both businesses,” O’Sullivan said.
A major step in Intrepid’s sustainability journey
When the transition finalises in 2026, Intrepid will become one of Australia’s largest walking tourism operators. The acquisition closely aligns with its Climate Action Plan and commitment to decarbonising its operations while expanding nature-based product that supports conservation outcomes and local communities.
For adventure travellers, the strengthened portfolio means more opportunities to lace up boots, explore remote environments with expert guides and experience some of Australia’s most pristine landscapes through a sustainability-first lens.
