Naturetrek, the wildlife holiday company headquartered in Chawton, is marking its 40th year in business, having grown from modest beginnings to become one of the UK's leading specialist tour operators. Founded in 1986 by David and Maryanne Mills, the firm now promotes a broad programme of wildlife holidays while maintaining an emphasis on responsible travel and conservation.
From a terraced house to a global programme
The company began with humble roots: the first brochure was produced under challenging conditions in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains. Over the years Naturetrek has expanded its offering to more than 700 tours across in excess of 100 countries, operating with a small central team and a wide network of specialist guides and partners.
“It’s rare in the UK for a specialist tour operator to reach 40 years of age; even more so to remain independent, family-owned and in charge of its own destiny,”
The managing director, Andy Tucker, highlighted the company’s continuity and workforce: Naturetrek employs a team of around 40 staff at its headquarters, supported by naturalists and partner organisations overseas.
Conservation and community impact
Naturetrek places environmental responsibility at the core of its operations. The company reports it has contributed more than £4.3 million to conservation causes and has worked with national bodies to help create protected areas in places including Ecuador, Italy and Scotland. Those reserves are intended to protect habitats and species in the long term while engaging local communities.
- Founded: 1986
- Headquarters: Chawton
- Tours offered: 700+
- Countries visited: 100+
- Conservation donations: £4.3m+
- Staff at HQ: 40
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Tours available | 700+ |
| Countries covered | 100+ |
| Conservation funds given | £4.3m+ |
Commemorations and recent activity
As part of anniversary events, Naturetrek chartered a special cruise in May around the British Isles, during which passengers recorded sightings of marine and coastal wildlife, including orcas, otters and both golden and white-tailed eagles. The company said celebrations will continue through 2026.
The longevity of an independent, specialist operator is notable in a travel market that has seen consolidation and changing consumer patterns. Naturetrek’s model—combining small-group naturalist-led trips with a stated commitment to conservation funding and local partnerships—illustrates one route by which a regional company can sustain international reach while aiming to deliver environmental benefits.
For Hampshire residents interested in the local business and conservation landscape, Naturetrek’s anniversary is a reminder of Chawton’s role as a base for enterprises that link local employment with global environmental work.
