Byroads is a small and exciting travel company with a well-established pedigree. Led by an expert tour host and accompanied by local guides born and raised in the region, the Byroads traveller can be assured of the best travel experience. Byroads also use the services of the best local tour operators in each of the countries we travel through so travel arrangements are in safe hands.
PETE RAWLEY – OWNER
Pete’s travel journey started some 40 years ago, like many, with a backpack and a limited understanding of what the world was really like. That experience changed a lot for him and ultimately saw him shift professions and step into the travel industry some 35 years ago.
Over the years, Pete has continued to explore countries all over the globe with the same curiosity he held as a young man. Now, some 80 countries later, the term ‘passionate traveller’ sits comfortably with him. There is still nothing he enjoys more than experiencing new cultures, history, food, religions and wildlife whenever he can get away on his next adventure.
As the owner of Byroads, Pete hopes to connect like-minded travellers with experiences that feed curious minds, broaden thinking and create new friendships that last a lifetime — while, at the same time, supporting local people and businesses through the shared revenue opportunities that come from responsible tourism.
BYROADS LOCAL TOUR GUIDES
In addition to the Tour Facilitator all trips have the services of a local Tour Guide. Ana Devila from Mexico and Muhammad Yunusov from Uzbekistan are typical Byroads local Tour Guides. They are exceptional people and being local they provide a fabulous insight into the history and culture of their countries. Along with the Tour Facilitator and various site guides it’s a great combination and one which ensures travellers with Byroads get the most out of their trip with us.
Testimonials
Having travelled with Steve and Byroads previously I was excited to visit Mexico. The carefully crafted itinerary along with our dynamic and passionate local guide Ana, ensured a wonderful trip. I’m a big fan of the Byroads travel formula. From the mode of transport, the quality of the accommodation and the calibre of the local guides, Byroads tours are authentic and great fun. Steve, as the brains behind the operation is organised and attentive, joins in the fun and is the glue that keeps everyone bubbling along.
Mary Kelly – Sydney
Uzbekistan was our first trip with Steve and Byroads. We weren’t quite sure what to expect, but by trips end we were enthralled by our experience. The friendliness and knowledge of our guides, the competence and patience of our drivers, the wonderful accommodation and restaurant choices and the marvellous sites all combined to make this a memorable trip. Steve quietly worked logistics in the background and his version of ‘guided democracy’ and attention to detail was very much appreciated by our group.
Lucy & Chris Costas – Queanbeyan
We felt privileged to have been introduced to Morocco through the extraordinary Byroads trip. Morocco is amazing and the trip lived up to expectations in every way – the Byroads support crew, the local guides, the scenery, the history, the accommodation and the food. Not only was the itinerary very carefully organised, but our leader, Steve, made it a special experience through his personalised tailoring to optimize every experience. Highly recommended!
Karen Gibb – Sydney
We have travelled extensively both in groups and privately, but nothing has been better than this Byroads holiday. Steve has put together a wonderful tour of Egypt which covers the length of the country including all the famous sites as well as some lesser known ones. The accommodation was great, and the various modes of travel were comfortable. Our fellow travellers were a friendly bunch and our local guide, Waleed was a fountain of knowledge and fitted right in with the group.
Meredith & Stephen McDonald – Goulbourn
I’ve done several trips now with Byroads including Jordan, Iran and twice to both Turkey and Morocco. All were fantastic trips that took me to the very heart of each country’s culture and people. I wouldn’t travel with anyone else. Thank you Steve!
Sharon Goddard – Canberra
Having travelled with Byroads through Uzbekistan, I had little doubt my trip in Jordan and Egypt with Steve would prove a wise decision. We visited all the wonderful monuments the region is so famous for and the pace of the trip was perfect. We travelled by bus, train, plane, riverboat, and even camels and the hotels were so comfortable. The team of local guides were so informed and friendly. I can’t wait to join Byroads again.
Marcelo Pagani – Buenos Aires
My third trip with Byroads was to Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan – and what a wonderful adventure it was! Led by Bronny, the itinerary was comprehensive and varied, amazing local guides, accommodation full of character and style and the pace just right. I’ll travel with Byroads again!
Geoffrey Leeson – Stanmore
Steve’s knowledge for the country, relaxed style and ability to choose great destinations, good hotels, restaurants and activities made the whole journey a pleasure.
Louise & Graeme Smith – Narraweena
This was my third Byroads Tour and I loved it! The itinerary was perfect- a deep dive into the rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes of the Caucasus. Our guides were so knowledgeable, our host perfect, the lodgings wonderful, and the local food a delight. From exploring ancient monasteries to tasting unique Georgian wine, every moment was a winner.