Europe Trip Leader
Josu Artetxe
Josu Artetxe is a native of Basque Country with a deep love for his land and culture. He lives with his family in an old farmhouse, where he devotes his time to organic agriculture. Josu is an enthusiastic traveler who speaks six different languages and over the last 20 years has traveled solo all over Europe and South America. When not guiding, he works as a freelance editor of books on the traditional cultures and languages of northern Spain.
Our Team
Client Testimonials
Josu exhibited and shared tremendous knowledge about his culture.
Carole K.
Cary, NC
Great Hikes and Cuisine of Basque Country
Josu is an absolute delight. He is so passionate about his heritage and country and shares his knowledge with enthusiasm and humor. There are guides that are wonderful, and then there are guides like Josu, who are just very unique and special. When I think of Josu I smile and am so glad he was my guide for this wonderful journey into Basque Land.
Denice S.
Newbury Park, CA
From France to Spain: Hiking in the Basque Country
Josu always had a smile for everyone, and I loved his stories about growing up in the Basque Country in the years of the Franco regime (and stories of his parents and grandparents as well), including having to learn Basque in secret. He is a passionate proponent for his country, and it was such a gret experience to hear stories from the inside of a culture.
Janet S.
Boise, ID
Great Hikes and Cuisine of Basque Country
Josu is a fabulous guy, bright, articulate, and strong.
Kiki F.
Millbrook, NY
Across the Pyrenees
Josu was kind, easygoing, and always there to help. He was very sharp and gave us great info on his country's history, politics, and current events. A real joy of a person to hike with—and he made a great picnic lunch!
Lisa S.
Sacramento, CA
Across the Pyrenees
Josu is very knowledgeable, professional, caring, friendly, and flexible. I learned a lot about the culture, food, people, history, and also current state of the Basque Country.
Margie D.
Sarasota, FL
From France to Spain: Hiking in the Basque Country
Josu made the story of the Basque people come to life, and made the complicated political situation make sense.
Mary B.
Wadsworth, IL
Great Hikes and Cuisine of Basque Country
Josu was very knowledgeable about Basque history, politics, and culture with an excited willingness to share it with us.
Phil W.
New York, NY
Great Hikes and Cuisine of Basque Country
Josu is an amazing tour guide. He was so much fun to be around, was very caring and compassionate, and told fantastic stories about the Basque region. He was extremely knowledgable about everything from Basque language to politics to food.
Sharon R.
Ellicott City, MD
Great Hikes and Cuisine of Basque Country
Josu is very knowledgeable in many areas and radiates a genuine interest in people and concern for travelers. He is a very reassuring and responsible presence, a talented facilitator.
Shirley F.
San Rafael, CA
Across the Pyrenees
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Josu was absolutely the best guide I’ve ever experienced. His knowledge, passion, and genuine concern for our small group's well being and experience was incredible.</span>
Steven H.
Seattle, WA
Spain to Portugal Private Journey
Josu's knowledge and enthusiasm in talking about the Basque history, culture, and personal experiences was very interesting.
Yona D.
New York, NY
Great Hikes and Cuisine of Basque Country
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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our adventures around the world. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!