Viator Buys Online Private Tour Guide Network OurExplorer.com

Viator, which operates a one-stop-shop for researching, planning and booking tours and activities all over the globe via Viator.com, has moved to acquire Sydney-based OurExplorer.com, an online resource for discovering and booking private tour guides around the world. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 2008, OurExplorer.com has grown into a global online network of professional tour guides who specialize in destinations like London, New York and Paris, as well as more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

OurExplorer says it has gathered information on more than 2,000 registered tour guides in more than 500 destinations to date, enabling travelers to quickly locate local guides in the destinations they are visiting.

Each registered OurExplorer guide has a personalized profile (example) that details their destination of focus, areas of expertise, years as a guide, licensing and pricing information and ratings by customers. Travelers seeking out a customized local experience in their destination can use the OurExplorer network to find a local expert that will meet their personal preferences and craft a private tour that will complement their activities itinerary.

The OurExplorer brand will continue to operate under its existing name.