In 2005, inspired by his own backpacking adventures, Paul Sarfati co-founded Bamba Experience Group with Arturo Martinez, transforming a nascent idea from his time at Babson College into a diversified travel enterprise. Initially focused on independent and experiential tourism, the company drew from Sarfati’s global travels as an 18-year-old backpacker, evolving over time into Bamba Travel. This brand specifically catered to adventurers seeking unique, experience-driven journeys. Rather than solely expanding a single brand, the company strategically developed specialized businesses targeting various travel market segments.
By 2008, Bamba Experience Group ventured into destination management with Be DMC operations in Mexico and Peru, targeting tour operators and agencies needing local expertise. This expansion was complemented in 2013 with Urban Day Trips, offering shorter, locally immersive travel experiences. Recognizing a gap in the market, 2020 saw the introduction of Baboo Travel, which aimed to simplify the process of creating bespoke trips by connecting travelers with Local Experts through advanced technology. In 2026, the group launched Viajando Juntas, a brand dedicated to organizing curated small-group journeys specifically for women, fostering community and shared experiences.
The group’s current portfolio is diverse, catering to different traveler needs: Bamba Travel emphasizes independent and adventure tourism; Be DMC, with Be Mexico and Be Peru, offers destination management; Urban Day Trips focuses on local excursions; Baboo Travel integrates technology with local expertise for tailor-made journeys; and Viajando Juntas provides women-centric travel experiences. Sarfati highlights the importance of adapting to changing travel expectations, noting the impact of evolving technology and consumer demands on the company’s business model.
Technology plays a pivotal role across Bamba Experience Group’s operations, with the development of AI-driven systems supporting customer inquiries, itinerary planning, bookings, and communication. Sarfati stresses that technology is designed to enhance, not replace, human interactions in travel, mirroring a broader trend where travelers seek digital convenience alongside expert guidance for personalized services. This approach reflects a shift in tourism, where digital tools and human expertise converge to meet complex traveler needs.
Over the past two decades, Bamba Experience Group has grown from a single adventure travel concept into a collection of specialized businesses, each addressing distinct aspects of the tourism industry. The company’s strategy of market specialization, supported by shared technology and expertise, positions it to capitalize on ongoing trends such as experiential travel, customized itineraries, and community-based group travel. By continuing to adapt and innovate, the group remains at the forefront of the evolving tourism landscape.
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