Wexas acquires 2by2 Holidays for undisclosed sum

Specialist tour operator Wexas has acquired independent wildlife tour operator 2by2 Holidays for an undisclosed sum.

The purchase covers share capital in the company and all employees.

2by2 Holidays was founded 22 years ago by Claire Farley, who will step down as director and act on a part-time consultancy basis during the transition period before retiring.

The operator specialises in itineraries offering “the very best wildlife viewing opportunities” around the world, with core destinations in east and southern Africa, India, Sri Lanka, South and Central America.

Within this, 2by2 Holidays offers a range of tailor-made birding holidays for enthusiasts to see rare breeds around the world.

About 10% of sales for all 2by2 Holidays tours are through retail travel agents.

Wexas managing director Katherine Gershon said: “Since selling our corporate division, Wexas Travel Management, in 2023, we’ve been actively looking for potential travel acquisitions that complement our brands.

“We’re delighted to announce 2by2 Holidays as our first acquisition today."

She added: “In 2by2 Holidays we have found precisely the type of company we are looking for - an operator-owned business, with a focus on the luxury of the experience and product expertise rather than simply focusing on five-star hotels and lodges.

“What’s more, the 2by2 Holidays’ wildlife and birding expertise sits well alongside Wexas’ own heritage of exploration and adventure and complements our existing brands: Wexas Travel, The Luxury Holiday Company and Best Served Scandinavia.”

2by2 Holidays managing director Farley added: “I know that Wexas, with its outstanding customer service, specialist team and focus on experiential travel is the ideal home for my business as I prepare to retire. 

“Since I established the company in 2003, we have been dedicated to creating unforgettable holidays, allowing clients to experience the incredible and diverse wildlife of Africa, India and Latin America.”