In 2005, Paul Sarfati, together with Arturo Martinez, transformed a business idea inspired by backpacking into the Bamba Experience Group. This travel company now manages an array of specialized brands, catering to adventure travel, destination management, unique local experiences, custom holidays, and women’s group travel. Sarfati, an entrepreneur who honed his skills at Babson College, was influenced by his own travels, including a significant backpacking journey around the globe when he was 18. Initially, the company’s focus was on providing independent and experiential tourism experiences, which later evolved into what is now known as Bamba Travel, a brand aimed at travelers seeking adventure and experience-driven trips.
Instead of diversifying a single brand, Bamba Experience Group opted to cultivate distinct businesses to address various segments of the travel market. By 2008, the company ventured into destination management with operations in Mexico and Peru, which later became part of Be DMC, offering expertise to tour operators and travel agencies through its Be Mexico and Be Peru divisions. The company further expanded in 2013 with Urban Day Trips, emphasizing short, local travel experiences. In 2020, Baboo Travel was launched to fill a market gap for travelers desiring custom trips without the hassle of fragmented planning services. Baboo Travel connects travelers with Local Experts, utilizing technology to simplify the custom travel process. In 2026, the group introduced Viajando Juntas, a brand dedicated to small-group journeys for women, fostering community-based travel experiences.
The group’s portfolio is strategically designed to cater to diverse traveler needs. Bamba Travel specializes in independent, experiential, and adventure travel. Be DMC supports travel companies and international partners with destination management services. Urban Day Trips offers short, locally focused excursions. Baboo Travel leverages Local Experts and technology for tailor-made travel experiences, while Viajando Juntas provides small-group travel opportunities specifically for women. Sarfati emphasizes that the company’s growth has been driven by evolving traveler expectations and the necessity to continuously adapt its business model. He notes that changes in travel, technology, and customer preferences require a responsive approach to meet customer demands effectively.
Technology plays an increasingly pivotal role across the group’s businesses. The company is developing AI-driven systems to enhance customer interactions, itinerary planning, bookings, traveler communications, and customer relationship management. Sarfati asserts that technology is intended to complement, not replace, human interaction in travel services. This approach aligns with broader tourism industry trends, where travelers seek digital convenience but still rely on human expertise for complex travel plans, local insights, and personalized services.
Over two decades since its inception, the Bamba Experience Group has evolved from a singular adventure travel concept to a multifaceted collection of businesses serving distinct sectors of the tourism industry. The company’s evolution highlights a strategy focused on market specialization, with brands tailored to specific traveler needs, supported by shared technology and expertise. The group continues to align its offerings with ongoing tourism trends, such as experiential travel, personalized itineraries, destination expertise, digital planning, and community-based group travel experiences.
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