In Her Words

Don’t just take our word for it!
Read trip testimonials from Explorer Chicks.

A woman smiles while sitting on a rock during a hike on an Explorer Chick trip

1 Stress-Free Logistics

“WOW, Explorer Chick….just wow! I was not sure what exactly to expect, but our two guides, Savannah and Lindsey, superseded expectations beyond my imagination. It seemed like the entire trip, I was being catered to, from the beautiful condo we stayed at, to the deliciously healthy meals they prepared down to the plethora of snack options they had for the group. All we had to do is wake up, get ready and the entire day was thoughtfully planned and arranged for us. I have a gluten allergy also and our guides made certain that part was taken care of, without issue because that meant a lot to me. I went alone but met some wonderful women and left with some like-minded new friends. What an amazing experience, Savannah and Lindsey were the perfect blend of adventure, hospitality, experience, consideration and humor. I wasn’t sure if I would like Explorer Chick…now I am convinced this is the type of tribe I belong with. Looking forward to another adventure with Explorer Chick, thank you for such a memorable and absolutely perfect adventure.” Kimberly, Moab Hiking and Rappelling Weekend 

“I just got home from an incredible trip with Explorer Chick, and I cannot say enough about what an amazing experience it was! Explorer Chick handled every detail, so we didn’t have to worry about anything—all we had to do was enjoy ourselves! Our Explorer Chick guide Kirstie was incredible and brought so much energy and light to our group! Our local guides were absolutely amazing as well—and the coordination between Explorer Chick and the local guides was totally seamless, it all felt like one experience. Together, all of our guides made the trip! From the logistics and support, to the incredible adventures, to the group bonding and positivity, everything went better than I could’ve ever imagined. I truly feel like I left with new friends and a new community that I can call my own. Though I’m sad this adventure is over, I’m happy to say that I’m looking forward to new ones I can take with Explorer Chick in the future!” Amanda, Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

“BEST TRIP EVER! I am so impressed with Explorer Chick! I just returned, and wow was it incredible. Everything was coordinated seamlessly, from accommodations, transportation, activities and meals. With everything being organized for you, you really get to focus on the experience and be present.” Elizabeth, Belize Jungle and Island Glamping

TikTok Testimonial

2 Explorer Chick Guides

I took my first Explorer Chick trip in June, and before I got home, I was planning my next EC adventure! I couldn’t have asked for better guides Nicki and Jeannie started the trip off (6am) with so much energy and positivity, and it remained that way throughout. The surprise birthday party they planned for 3 of the EC’s was a beautiful touch and included so many details and inside jokes that we shared. The memories, laughs and friends that I made on this trip will forever hold a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to add to that with more EC adventures in the future!”  Alex, Zion and Bryce Hiking and Glamping

“The entire trip entirely exceeded my expectations! Our guide Ashley was phenomenal! I felt so comfortable and safe with her. She was very prepared, knowledgeable, patient, and kind! Her passion for guiding, and adventuring really showed through! I learned so much. If you’re thinking about doing a trip with this company, stop thinking and DO! You will not be disappointed!” Nina, Red River Gorge Backpacking Workshop

“I have been on 2 weekend getaways with this company and they were both fantastic!! After my first trip, I went home & checked all their trips against my work schedule and booked 2 more. The guides are amazing; friendly, down to earth, educated, experienced in the outdoors, and great hostesses. These ladies were working their butts off cooking & feeding us before and after long days hiking. Their enthusiasm only added to the fun of everything we did. Monica, West Virginia Winter Weekend

3 Solo Travelers Welcome

“Just went on my 1st Explore Chick trip, what an incredible experience! This was my 1st solo travel trip and I was NERVOUS that I would be the only one that didn’t have a friend with me. Boy was I wrong, out of our group of 9, only 3 knew each other. Right away our group got to know each other and the bonding started. By the end of the tip, I knew I had made some new lifelong friends…friends to continue to explore with! I can’t wait to go on more Explore Chick adventures, if you are on the fence…stop overthinking it and sign up! You won’t regret it ;)” Courtney, Red River Gorge Backpacking Workshop

“OMG one of the most challenging (in a good way), fulfilling, adventurous, and fun trips I have taken. Let me start by saying that I am not a hiker, and I was really nervous about being unable to keep up with the group. The ladies on this tour were patient and encouraging. I latched on to the strength of the group, and I accomplished more than I set out to do. I definitely recommend this group to anyone feeling like they need a break from the average vacation into something a bit more adventurous. You leave feeling like you’ve made friends for life…” Sherene L, Smoky Mountains Hiking, Rafting, and Glamping

“I was nervous about this trip because I didn’t know anyone in the group before going, but that was the same for 7 out of the 10 ladies on the trip. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of ladies – we all clicked, found common interests, shared laughs and tears, and I was truly sad to say goodbye to them at the end of the trip. I’d definitely book this trip again, and I’d recommend Explorer Chick to any lady interested in adventure travels.” Rachel, Utah National Parks Hiking Roadtrip

A group of Explorer Chick women pose with a llama in Peru

4 Supportive Community

“Explorer Chick has truly set the bar for vacations going forward! It has encouraged me to continue to improve myself physically, mentally, and spiritually, because life is never happier than when I am outdoors and challenging myself in some way. The bonding opportunity with fierce women who want more out of a vacation than a beach and a towel is unparalleled, and the trip planning is all done for you! I dare anyone reading this to become an Explorer Chick – you won’t regret it!!” Anna

“I have never been a fan of “women only” events as my experience with women has been crappy (always catty and shallow). I usually avoid anything labeled as women only. I decided to give Explorer Chick a try and I was extremely happy with my experience. I will definitely continue my travels with these ladies. They ROCKED!! No backstabbing, no gossiping, no “mean girls club”. Just 100% total support from everyone!! Teresa, Moab Hiking and Rappelling Weekend

Every woman on the trip booked it not knowing anyone, but we all became friends very quickly. We hiked, learned, and laughed so much in such a short amount of time. I feel much more confident being in the wilderness now and cannot wait to book my next trip with Explorer Chick! Shoutout to Erin for dealing with our shenanigans, getting everyone back safely, and for helping to make this trip as amazing as it was! She’s the BEST.” Jackie, Virginia Wilderness Survival

TikTok Testimonial
Three Explorer Chick women hiking in the Narrows in Zion National Park

5 Pro-Age Travel

“This was my first EC adventure. Going in, I wasn’t sure what to expect and almost decided not to go at the last minute. My fear was that I would arrive and be surrounded by 20 somethings and they would all be physically ready for anything. That wasn’t the case, there were women of all ages and sizes. I met several amazing women and was inspired and spent a weekend of saying yes to new things.” Deanna

“Everything was amazing! Our guide Katie coordinated seamlessly with local guides to create an unforgettable experience. Our group ranged in age from 30’s to 60’s. As a traveler in my late 50’s I had many of the typical concerns, none of which were ultimately an issue. There was ample support, encouragement, and camaraderie. Thanks Explorer Chick!” Susan, Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

“I can’t say enough positive things about this women-led business that focuses on empowering all women to challenge themselves (Easy Doesn’t Change You). I recently completed my 5th trip with Explorer Chicks last week. Before my first trip in 2018 I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to keep up. After 5 trips I can assure you that Explorer Chicks attract a very diverse group. For my Smokies trip, ages ranged from 30s to 60s. My co-hikers came from all over the country with different ethnicities and backgrounds. The guides are what really make this company unique (shout out to Lauren and Kimberly). Explorer Chicks hires partners who excel at building a cohesive group. In this trip only two of the hikers knew each other before the trip. The remaining 8 were solo travelers. By the end of the trip we were all exchanging contact info and posting our experiences to the various social media platforms.”Tracey, Smoky Mountains Boots and Roots Hiking

TikTok Testimonial

In Her Words

damara M.damara M. ★★★★★ I recently returned home from my first EC trip-Zion and Bryce Canyon. As I expected it was a FANTASTIC time! The weather wasn't the greatest- but I lived! And I used every piece of clothing/equipment that I brought! Kirstie and Christina did a great job of leading our group and pivoting when we couldn't do the narrows. They found a less traveled trail that challenged us but was do-able for all. Food was good-trail lunches and food by EC was yummy, went to 2 restaurants that were pretty good too. When I go on my next trip I will definitely take less personal snacks. You should be fine as long as you are not a picky eater. I plan on traveling 1-2 times in 2025 with EC. They make it soooo easy-show up with some base training, a good attitude, and be ready for a FANTASTIC TIME!!!Christine C.Christine C. ★★★★★ My first trip with Explorer Chicks was the Virginia Wilderness Survival 101. I went solo and it was an amazing experience. This is the first time I've ever done anything like this and I'm so glad I did. Our guide, Kara, was absolutely wonderful. She was knowledgeable, well organized, and made the trip organization so easy. I loved spending time with other women who were out for an adventure. We shared stories and enjoyed being outdoors together. I can't recommend Explorer Chicks enough and can't wait for my next adventure (hopefully Yosemite Backpacking!).Jennifer LJennifer L ★★★★★ This was a transformative experience. The Explorer Chick had the itinerary planned beautifully and my guides, Kirstie and Christina were also a pivotal part of the success of my trip. They both were confident and humble and had a wealth of knowledge and training that helped me trust the process and take healthy risks that I'd never taken before. They were always prepared, patient and flexible and knew exactly how to kindly manage the various personalities (and wonderful!) on our trip. The description of the trip matched the experience so there were no surprises (except for all of us having to be flexible regarding Mother Nature's weather plans). The food was excellent - no frills but exactly what we all needed and everyone on the trip expressed happiness with our meals. Before I'd decided to go on this trip I read mostly good reviews but some mediocre but non-specific ones. For a moment, they gave me pause but I decided to try it out anyway - I am so glad I did. This was a fabulous company and the trip was one I will never forget. I went knowing no one and the women on that trip, like me, were looking to explore, try new things and laugh. We had a GREAT time. I would definitely do it again.Laura H.Laura H. ★★★★★ I went on the VA Wilderness Survival/Triple Crown weekend. I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect and was a little nervous but it exceeded every expectation I had. Our guide, Kara O’Dea was exceptional. She was sweet, knowledgeable and such a calming presence. If any of us got nervous about what we were going to do, she talked us through it and encouraged us in the best way. We slayed our Triple Crown, built fires and shelters, practiced knots, brushed up on our wilderness first aid, learned elbow strikes and how to get out of choke holds, played with Sunny the amazing guide dog, developed a girl crush on Dina (the woman who runs the school) and met/ hiked with some incredible women. All while retreating at the end of the night to a cozy lodge in the woods.. It was fun, hard, exhausting and inspiring. Thank you Explorer Chick Adventure Co.!Carolina S.Carolina S. ★★★★★ Red River Gorge Backpacking Workshop:I was looking for a trip to experience and learn more about backpacking. I can do research all day but nothing beats real life hands-on experience! Our guide was Amy, and she did an amazing job at answering all of our questions and teaching us. She made the experience feel effortless to plan, easy to arrive and have fun. The hike itself is moderate, achievable with some preparation and determination. Bonding with women of all ages who share a passion for travel and nature is always a plus! I would recommend this trip to anyone looking to get into backpacking.The views are stunning too, did not know this gem was in KY.AmandaAmanda ★★★★★ Cannot say enough wonderful things about my trip to Belize with Explorer Chick!! Wonderful activities that make you push your limits, the sense of pride in yourself is so strong. Our wonderful fearless leader Guide Jayme had our back throughout the trip & was so well organized & flexible with details. And last but definitely not least the group of fearless women that I met, adore & continue to keep in contact with! If your thinking of booking with EC, don’t wait, go for it!Jen R.Jen R. ★★★★★ Take the trip! It’s an amazing time surrounded by a community of women. I’m already planning my next adventure!Robin R.Robin R. ★★★★★ There are no words to really explain the outstanding trip to Uganda!There was everything from seamless planning of accommodations to transport both in air and ground. More than this, was the camaraderie that this group displayed! We supported each other , and had a complete blast!! Nicki our guide is passionate about what she does and it shows, she was fun, and is a total package leader! The hikes and trekking for the animals especially the chimpanzees and gorillas was so DAMN amazing! Had to pinch myself so many times! I was in Africa! Not just in Africa, but having my dreams come to life about seeing the beauty and all the creatures! If you are hesitating about this trip STOP. Book it. Hike in the jungle, get wet, be a dirty girl!! Live life!!Accommodations and food were unreal!Lisa B.Lisa B. ★★★★★ If you prefer to work really hard and spend lots of time and energy planning a trip and dealing with the headache of navigating, finding good places to eat and fun things to do all on your own then this is not for you. Now if you prefer to show up and have amazing people guide you and cover every detail so you don't have to and love every minute of it, then this is definitely for you! As a solo traveler I was warmly welcomed (with a margarita!), met some amazing women and had the adventure of a lifetime. It would not have been possible without our brilliant guides Lauren & Amanda on the Smoky Mountain Boots & Roots Hiking Trip. This being my first time I would not hesitate to book another trip. Amazing experience!!Dawn Julian M.Dawn Julian M. ★★★★★ I just got back from the Moab/Arches trip, and wow, what a fantastic adventure! Kayla and Jess were incredible, making every moment super enjoyable. It was such a treat to just relax and soak in the experience without worrying about the details. I’m definitely booking with Explorer Chick again!Kitty F.Kitty F. ★★★★★ 2 day 1 night - Red River Gorge, with the best group ever! Thank you so much Jody, wonderful, knowledgeable, guide. As well as a big thank you to the amazing group of "chicks". Thank you!carrie P.carrie P. ★★★★★ Amazing trip!!! Lauren and Amanda were fantastic, so patient. Accomodations and food perfect....Already looking for another trip!lisa B.lisa B. ★★★★★ Our Las Vegas weekend was amazing! Our guide Kara led us through our adventures like a pro! Rock climbing, amazing dinners, kayaking and overnight camping . She listened to our requests and worked with our needs. We had so much fun and made new friends - A+Deanna F.Deanna F. ★★★★★ What a fantastic trip! Kirstie and Hannah made everything perfect, from changing our itinerary due to weather, to making delicious lunches, snacks when needed, and taking us to experience some amazing places! I would highly recommend joining these ladies, but only if you want to have an adventure to remember! I already have another trip booked! 🙌🥾Lisa H.Lisa H. ★★★★★ Had the best time ever!! Got to do things I never would have dreamed of and accomplished things that I'm very proud of. Our guide Kirstie was fantastic, as was our Islandic guide/driver. Everything was planned out and taken care of so that all we (the 12 Explorer Chicks on this trip) had to think about was the next fun activity or the next great meal. I would SOOOO do another adventure with Explorer Chicks and recommend to anyone that has the desire to do something possibly out of their comfort zone. This gave me the confidence to tackle more things in the future like this.js_loader