WHO WE ARE
We are explorers and adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts and builders of bridges between cultures. We believe in small group travel, leaving a small footprint, and interacting as much as possible with the host country and culture. We are values-driven and strive to treat our clients, partners, and the communities we visit with the utmost respect and dignity. To us, travel is life-giving. Helping others experience the places we love is our passion.
Our home office is located in the Charlotte area of North Carolina, USA, but we are often found exploring more of South America (and other parts of the world for fun)! As travel designers, we rely on a skilled team of in-country partners and operators who serve our clients with us in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
OUR STORY
Untamed Path was founded in 1999 by two avid wilderness guides with extensive experience in South America. These founders, Jen and Mike, share a love of mountaineering and wild, open spaces-and they saw a need for a travel company that offers active adventures with a deep respect for local ecosystems and cultures.
Since then, Untamed Path has continued to grow and expand. In 2015, Jen and Mike passed on ownership to Jeff Boyd, a former client and fellow South American expert. Drawing on his many years living and traveling throughout South America, Untamed Path is continuing to develop new and exciting trips.
JEFF BOYD
Owner and Lead Travel Designer
As a veteran businessman in several industries, Jeff has worked throughout Central and South America for more than 20 years. But he also has the heart and soul of an explorer: gripped by an early passion for South America, he has made a life for himself residing in or traveling often to the region since he graduated from college. He is eager for others to get to know this part of the world he loves so deeply.
Prior to Untamed Path, he worked in business development for US-based companies, including leading a family foundation focused on creating housing for vulnerable children in South America and Africa. He loves meeting new people and sharing with them his favorite, and often untamed places, throughout South America!
WHY UNTAMED PATH?
Experience & Knowledge of the Region – Jeff has been to Colombia 80+ times since 2004, Peru 30 times, and has lived in Colombia, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic. He has logged over 2.5 million American Airlines miles in the region and has personally led many groups in 8 countries over the last 20 years.
Private, Tailor-Made Trips – Our focus is designing custom-made, private trips for each of client that accommodates their interests, comfort & activity preferences, budget, and desired pace. Most of our clients travel in groups of 6 or less, with the occasional larger family or group of 10-16 friends. And not everyone in the group has to do the exact same itinerary; we are very flexible with the degree of customization!
Customer Service – As a small company, we are more flexible and dynamic in our custom trip designs and more competitive on pricing. We work closely with our clients to ensure each adventure is an unforgettable experience. And we pride ourselves on being available to our clients nearly 24/7!
Amazing In-Country Partners – As travel designers, we rely on in-country operators. Over our 18 years in business, we have cultivated some outstanding partnerships with operators that take great care of our clients, and we continually refine the selection and retention process. We consider many of our partners as family.