Jonathan Schwartz

Jonathan Schwartz is a luxury travel advisor whose career has been shaped by nearly fifteen years of global exploration, deep cultural immersion, and a passion for crafting journeys that feel both extraordinary and deeply personal. His travels span Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania, covering more than 40 countries. From the savannas of Kenya to the fjords of Norway, the temples of Japan, and the wild coastlines of New Zealand.

Jonathan’s professional foundation is as rich as his passport. He has led 68 luxury active travel trips with Backroads across 14 countries for more than 1,500 guests, managed a global portfolio of boutique tour operators, and marketed safari properties throughout East Africa. These experiences have given him rare insight into the world’s most exceptional lodges, guides, and wilderness regions - and a deep appreciation for the cultures, landscapes, and people who make each destination unforgettable.

His travel philosophy is rooted in culture, authenticity, exclusivity, and meaningful adventure. Jonathan believes the most memorable journeys unfold far from the crowds - on remote mountain passes, in family‑run lodges, through private encounters, and across landscapes that reveal themselves slowly and beautifully. He designs itineraries that reflect each traveler’s interests, style, and curiosity, ensuring no two journeys are ever the same.

Jonathan’s personal adventures read like a curated anthology of the world’s most remarkable experiences:

• Backcountry cat‑skiing in the big mountains of British Columbia

• Late‑night tango and open‑woodfire asado in Buenos Aires

• Cycling the iconic Sella Ronda in the Italian Dolomites

• Trekking New Zealand’s Great Walks and cruising Milford Sound

• Sailing historic vessels through Croatia’s island‑studded coastline

• Mushroom foraging and fika rituals in the Swedish archipelago

• Marriage proposal on a secluded beach along Portugal’s Alentejo Coast

• Private bush flights and boutique safari camps in Kenya and Tanzania

• Matcha ceremonies, ancient temples, and world‑class beaches across Bali and Japan

• Snorkeling through the untouched San Blas Islands, Panama

• ATV adventures and hidden cave hotels in Cappadocia, Turkey 

These moments have shaped Jonathan’s perspective and refined his ability to design journeys that feel immersive, intentional, and transformative. His clients benefit from an extensive global network of trusted partners - expert guides, conservationists, hoteliers, and destination specialists - who help bring each itinerary to life. 

As part of The Expeditionist, Jonathan embodies the company’s ethos: Ex.pe.di.tion — A journey undertaken with purpose, curiosity, and exploration. 

Guided by founder Ralph Iantosca’s three decades of experience, 91‑country résumé, and unmatched expertise across Africa’s safari landscape, Jonathan crafts bespoke safaris and expeditions that reflect the highest standards of luxury, adventure, and insider access. His work ensures that every journey begins with intention - and unfolds with the kind of wonder and connection that linger long after the traveler returns home.