Our Story
In 1971, Giovanna Holbrook took on the challenge of leading two University of Florida science professors and a group of naturalists to the Galápagos Islands. At that time, the Galápagos was just celebrating its 12th year as a national park, conservation work at the Charles Darwin Research Station was still in its infancy, and tourism in the islands was virtually non-existent.
Founding the company
Spurred by memories of her pioneering voyage to the Galápagos, a lifelong love of travel, and close ties to the local academic community, Giovanna embarked on a mission to design travel programs that were both educational and affordable. Her tireless efforts led to the founding of Holbrook Travel a few years later in 1974. As the company matured throughout the years, it built relationships with a variety of organizations throughout the U.S. and overseas and increased its destinations and program offerings.
Where we are now
More than 50 years later, Holbrook Travel continues to serve the needs of teachers, students, academic institutions, conservation organizations, and nature lovers. In the words of Andrea Holbrook, president: “Our goal is to continue the great work my mother started.”
Responsible Tourism
The field of sustainable and responsible tourism continues to evolve with new ideas, resources, and organizations that are forming all the time. Holbrook is committed to this learning and growth process since many of these principles are part of who we are and part of why people travel with Holbrook. At the same time, Holbrook is a pioneer in the field of sustainability.
Our Mission
Holbrook Travel was founded on the mission to provide a true connection between our travelers and nature and people of our destinations.
We support our travelers, leaders, and sponsoring institutions with reliable services and a deep network within the places we visit to create experiences that last a lifetime. Since 1974, we’ve taken thousands of travelers on expeditions across Latin America, Africa, and destinations beyond.
Our Vision
Holbrook Travel believes that sustainable travel is a key to understanding and preserving the natural and cultural diversity of our planet.
