REI Adventures Takes 25 Percent Off Special Guided Trips in 2011

To celebrate its 25th anniversary of selling guided adventure trips, the terrific outdoor outfitter REI is selling a select group of its 2011 trips at a 25% discount so the whole family can enroll in one of their active adventures around the globe.

The special members-only savings of 25% includes trips to France, Nepal, and Africa and comes out to savings of over $1000 on some of REI Adventures most coveted classic trips.

At least our family covets these trips, as they're led by expert outdoors men and women who make possible an adventure that most families could simply not organize on their own.

Be sure to read about the age-appropriateness, skill and fitness levels suggested for these adventures, as REI fans take their adventures very seriously.  All REI Adventure trips are rated on a scale of one (relaxed) to five (strenuous), so guests can easily choose an REI Adventure that is best suited for them. There are family adventures, weekend getaways, volunteer expeditions and more. For a more tailored experience with a select group of people, guests can also book private departures for events such as family reunions and student groups.

Here are some of the available trips, which can be booked at www.rei.com/travel.    

REI Trips to Challenge your Teens 

Everest Base Camp Trek: Travel the footpaths of the Everest region and explore UNESCO World Heritage sites while trekking vast glaciers and ridgelines of the Himalayas. this strenouous 19-day trek costs $2,175 including some hotels and camping costs, as well as porters and mountain gear.

Alaska Wilderness & Wildlife Kayaking: Paddle through perfect kayak country and explore the series of small connected waterways, bays and fjords along the western side of Alaska’s Inside Passage.

Treat your College or Adult Kids to Europe or So. America with REI

Loire Valley Cycling: Cycle through the quiet back roads of France and sample the region’s exceptional wines and authentic cuisine. At a reduced cost of $1,949. This six-day escorted tour includes hotels, meals, bicycles and support equipment and is suggested for fit riders.

Fitz Roy & Paine Hiking: Experience the majesty and full range of the Patagonian Andes while hiking to the base of the Fitz Roy massif to explore Chile’s Torres del Paine wilderness.

Tour du Mont Blanc: Cross three borders by foot hiking the challenging but spectacular Alps. Travel from village to village and experience the vibrant Swiss, French and Italian cultures.

Adventuring with REI for the Active Family

Machu Picchu, The Inca Trail Trek: Camp along the Inca Trail, visit lively markets and ancient ruins, and follow the Peruvian paths to Machu Picchu.  A nine-day trek with porters and guides costs $2,325 including airfare within Peru.

East Africa Safari: Visit Tanzania’s premier wildlife parks including the Serengeti to view wildlife and experience intimate safari camps and lodges.

This year, REI Adventures runs over 150 active adventure travel trips to more than 40 countries worldwide. They pride themselves on trips "focused on sustainable, human-powered outdoor adventure led by local guides fluent in the area’s history and traditions," according to a spokesperson. In addition to having trip leaders, the local guides enable families to make a connection with the environment, its flora and fauna, and the culture surrounding them. All ages have a knowledgable guide at hand to interpret each day's discoveries.

Once you're an REI member, trip costs include most meals, and the necessary equipment required such as kayaks, tents and high-end bicycle options. Lifetime REI memberships are available for a one-time $20 fee and families will receive a share in the company’s profits through an annual member refund based on their purchases.

For more information on the 2011 departures and tour costs, contact your  travel agent or go to REI.com / travel