Exodus managing director Sam Seward said the move would allow the operator to engage in “meaningful” discussions around the future of the sector with fellow specialists.

The decision comes on the eve of Aito’s annual overseas conference, which is due to be held in Wroclaw, Poland, over 21-24 November.

Exodus will attend Aito’s annual agent event in January.

“These are both challenging and exciting times for our industry,” said Seward.

“Joining Aito will allow Exodus to engage in really meaningful discussions with other authentic specialist travel providers of all shapes and sizes, especially with regards the subject of ethical and sustainable travel and changing needs of our customers.

“At Exodus, we’re incredibly proud of our 97% customer satisfaction rating and being the only adventure travel company recommended as an ’Escorted Tour Provider’ by Which?.

“Our focus on quality makes us a very good fit with Aito, where customer satisfaction is paramount.”

Aito represents around 120 specialist and independent tour operators across the UK.