In 2005, Paul Sarfati and Arturo Martinez transformed a backpacking-inspired business idea into the Bamba Experience Group, a multifaceted travel company that caters to a diverse array of tourism sectors. Sarfati, whose entrepreneurial vision was honed at Babson College and shaped by his own extensive travels, including a formative round-the-world backpacking journey at 18, initially focused the company on independent and experiential travel. Over time, Bamba Experience evolved into Bamba Travel, targeting adventurous and experience-seeking travelers. Rather than growing a single brand into multiple segments, the company opted to develop distinct businesses, each targeting specific travel market niches.
By 2008, the group ventured into destination management with operations in Mexico and Peru, forming Be DMC, which includes Be Mexico and Be Peru. This expansion was aimed at providing local expertise to tour operators, agencies, and travel companies. In 2013, Urban Day Trips was launched, offering travelers shorter, locally-focused excursions. Recognizing a market gap in 2020, the company introduced Baboo Travel, a service designed to connect travelers with Local Experts, using technology to simplify the creation of tailor-made trips. The group further diversified in 2026 with Viajando Juntas, a brand dedicated to small-group journeys for women, fostering community-oriented experiences.
The Bamba Experience Group’s portfolio is crafted to serve various traveler needs. Bamba Travel focuses on those seeking independent and adventure-rich experiences, while Be DMC offers destination management services for international partners. Urban Day Trips specializes in short, local experiences, and Baboo Travel integrates technological convenience with local expertise for personalized itineraries. Viajando Juntas provides women travelers with curated group journeys. Sarfati highlights that the company’s evolution is driven by adapting to the evolving expectations of travelers and the necessity for continuous business model innovation.
Technological advancement is a unifying element across the group’s brands, with the company developing AI-enabled systems to enhance customer interactions, itinerary planning, booking processes, and relationship management. Sarfati emphasizes that their strategy is to leverage technology to complement, not replace, human interaction in travel services. This approach aligns with a broader trend in tourism, where travelers increasingly value digital ease alongside human expertise for complex travel needs and personalized experiences.
More than two decades since its inception, Bamba Experience has transitioned from a singular adventure travel initiative into a consortium of specialized businesses within the tourism industry. This strategic focus on market specialization, with brands targeting distinct traveler requirements, is bolstered by shared technology and infrastructure. The company now positions its diverse portfolio to capitalize on ongoing tourism trends, including experiential travel, bespoke itineraries, and community-focused group journeys.
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