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Tipping Guidelines

Why Should I Tip My Guides?

 

Guides are the backbone of the travel industry.

They are educators, storytellers, and highly skilled outdoorswomen with genuine enthusiasm for sharing their insights and passion for the destinations you explore on our trips.

Their roles are multifaceted, and they wear a ton of different hats (driver, educator, timekeeper, chef, group wrangler, occasional karaoke singer…) to ensure your only job is to show up and have the adventure of a lifetime.

While tipping your Explorer Chick guide is not mandatory, it is customary in the travel industry and the best way to express your gratitude for their dedication and hard work.

By tipping, you show appreciation for the exceptional service, support, and expertise that your guide provides. It’s a tangible way to acknowledge the value they add to your travel experience.

 

How Much Should I Tip My Guides?

 

The industry standard is for each individual guest to tip 10-20% of the trip cost.

Gratuities may be given to one guide — the team divides tips among themselves after the trip.

Most of our Explorer Chick Guides have Paypal and/or Venmo. Just ask her!

 

Why Aren’t EC Guide Tips Included in the Trip Price?

 

Allowing guides to accept tips is customary in the tour industry — and for good reason. It encourages our Explorer Chick Guides to provide you with exceptional service. Plus, our Explorer Chicks enjoy the opportunity to recognize guide(s) personally for their hard work.

 

Do I Need To Tip Other People During My Trip?

 

Most tips are included in the price of your trip including for local/partner guides and restaurants. If there is an exception to the included tips, it will be detailed in the “What’s Included” section of a trip page.

 

Tips that are NOT included in your tour price:

 

  • Extra activities
  • Airport Shuttle
  • Tips for Housecleaning/hotel/lodging staff
  • Your Explorer Chick Guide(s).

What Our Guests Say About Our Guides

Excellent
4.9
Susan F.
Susan F.
I just completed the challenging and spectacular Yosemite Half Dome Backpacking trip with Explorer Chicks. Our guide, Ashley, was organized, knowledgeable, kind, calm and encouraging and we all agreed we would definitely travel with her again!! This was a trip of a lifetime and I’m so glad I got to experience the beauty of the Yosemite backcountry!
Sasha S.
Sasha S.
I just got back from the Yosemite - Half Dome Backpacking Trip. From beginning to end it was AMAZING, STUPENDOUS, FABULOUS...you get the point. Kat was our guide and she was the absolute perfect fit for our group. Everything was so well thought out, meals were amazing! Loved our "Trailsgiving Dinner". Kat was great at reading the vibe of the group, making adjustments when needed and giving us super helpful little tips to make the trek easier. The itinerary was great and we had the trails mostly to ourselves in the backcountry with exception of the few high traffic areas so it felt like a magical little retreat. There were so many thoughtful details that made the trip extra special. We hiked Half Dome to watch the sunset and it was breathtaking. At no time did I feel unsafe because Kat coached us how to approach the cables and was there the whole time helping anyone who felt nervous. We had emails ahead of the trip with what to expect, frequent communication during the trip outlining the details of each day as well as a recap email that captured all of the special moments. I would so strongly recommend Explorer Chick to any woman looking for an adventure! BOOK IT!! You will not regret it!
Candice B.
Candice B.
This trip was wonderful from beginning to end! I am so thankful I found out about Explorer Chick! I will definitely be booking another trip soon. Kat was our guide and she truly was the best I could have asked for in a guide. You get to know people intimately when you go backpacking and share tents. Kat’s personality is optimistic and patient. Guiding 5 women who have hardly any experience backpacking or climbing could potentially be a very difficult situation but Kat is knowledgeable and kind and I trusted her guidance.
Shannon B.
Shannon B.
I just got back from my third Explorer Chick trip--this time to Yellowstone. It was a busy trip and we saw a lot in one week. Our guides Christina and Jayme were first class and facilitated not just the logistics of travel, meals, and activities but also empowered us, educated and listened and were fun to be around. These are not trips if you want relaxing, easy vacations. But if if want to meet fantastic women and challenge yourself, sign up. There are so many options to choose from and new people to meet.
Sierra W.
Sierra W.
Explorer Chick was absolutely phenomenal! I recently completed their Yosemite National Park Half Dome Backpacking trip and had an incredible experience. My guide, Kirstie, was beyond amazing. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the park, its history, and the surrounding area. Her enthusiasm and passion for the outdoors were contagious, making the trip even more enjoyable. Kirstie was also very approachable, making it easy to ask questions and feel comfortable in the group. I was impressed by her attention to detail, ensuring that everything was well-planned and executed. If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure, I highly recommend booking a trip with Explorer Chick!
Leila H
Leila H
I recently returned from Yosemite National Park after completing one of my bucket list hikes, climbing Half Dome! The group of women and our guide Katie K. were an encouraging and inspirational circle to be surrounded by. It wasn't just about hiking and completing a goal; it was about connection, learning, and trust. My guide went above and beyond in educating the group, teaching meditation and relaxation techniques, and adapting to each individual and their personal comfort level. I look forward to more adventures in the near future!
Jamie L.
Jamie L.
I just got back from the Yosemite hiking trip with Kara and Kirstie as guides and it was phenomenal! We covered several varied parts of the park and were so well taken care of by our guides! They adapted to each woman’s fitness level like pros. I will definitely be going on another trip with Explorer Chick and highly recommend them to any women thinking about it!
kara R.
kara R.
I am a single woman with the desire to travel. I feel a bit intimidated going alone. I had my eye on Explorer Chicks for a couple of years and finally committed to a trip; just returned from Alaska. All the ladies were down-to-earth, funny and kind. The guides made me feel safe and took us to places that were well off the beaten path, not tourist-y. I am on my way to becoming a world traveler, having booked another trip with them this fall. You will have so much fun!
Susan A.
Susan A.
Beyond my expectation is what comes to mind when asked how I liked my EC adventure. I recently returned from the Alaska adventure of a lifetime. The scenery, my fellow "Chicks", the daily events, the food, the organization, all top notch! Our guides, Ashley and Nichole, knowledgeable, capable, enthusiastic, welcoming, experienced with adventures in the wild. This is a not to be missed experience I would repeat in a heartbeat.
Shelly B.
Shelly B.
I did the 2024 Slovenia trip. My guide, Katie Klos-was awesome! And the trip was truly amazing! From the hut-to-hut hiking in the Alps- to the rest of trip adventures which included rafting, biking wine country, paddleboarding, hikes, delicious food and wine. Everything was planned and taken care of from start to finish and it was a grand adventure! It was my 3rd Explorer Chick trip and my favorite! HIghly Recommend!
Aishwarya R.
Aishwarya R.
I recently went on the Explorer chick Peru trip (multi sport adventure) in July 2024. It was an amazing trip with a lifetime worth of memorable experiences. Our guide was Ms. Christina Bruno and every travel arrangement from Cusco sight seeing, to walking tours, visiting archeological sites, river rafting, biking, MACHU Picchu hiking and rainbow mountain trek was impeccable and curated in detail. The best part of the trip was to experience the Peruvian culture including the traditional cuisine which made the experience even more fascinating. I would highly recommend this trip to many explorer chick adventurers if they are contemplating a trip to Peru.
Mara K.
Mara K.
I highly recommend Explorer Chick! My trip to Red River Gorge was even better than I expected. Our guide, Jess, was AMAZING. She not only embodies the vision and mission of the company, but is also a great mentor for both amateurs and experienced trekkers. For me, this wasn't just a vacation, it was a life changing experience. I loved every minute!
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