Why Choose | Explorer Chick

Here's 10 reasons

Explorer Chick exists to change lives.

We just so happen to do it through adventure travel for women.

Welcome to a proud collective of unladylike misfits who search the ends of the earth for the best places to discover our superpowers. We create action-packed, women-only, bucket-list experiences that feel like secret passageways beyond all the typical tourist traps.

Leave your inner critic speechless and the logistics to us. Rock up, soul-meld with your new sisterhood, and prepare to laugh until a little happy pee comes out.

Let’s be real—most travel companies promise an adventure, but how many deliver a life-changing experience? That’s where we come in. We take you deeper, push you further, and immerse you in unforgettable adventures you won’t find anywhere else.

With us, it’s not just about seeing a destination; it’s about living it. From hidden trails to boutique stays, every detail is designed to create a once-in-a-lifetime journey that will leave you inspired.

Flip the switch and prepare for your needs to be obsessively met through adventure travel run by women, for women.

Life-Changing Travel

We know. It's a bold statement. But it was our community of Explorer Chicks who clued us in with their stories and words.

Woman holding "Explorer Chick" banner at the summit of Torres Del Paine Towers in Patagonia Chile

1 Reignite Your Fire

Transform your vacay mindset from work-recovery to life-discovery. It’s never too late to try something new, reconnect with your inner child, or start again.

Just ask Explorer Chick founder Nicki Bruckmann, who got fed up with the mold she was forcing herself into and essentially blew up life as she knew it (the marriage, the job… you name it.) What came out of the destruction was Explorer Chick.

We help women get out of their own heads through radical acceptance, endless support, and obscene fun. Each adventure is a baptism in self-belief and owning your life.

Peace out, Rick Steves. We’re journeying through our souls over here.

Read Nicki's Story

2 A Feral Sisterhood

“How does this magical vibe exist?” Probably our favorite quote ever. Truth is YOU are the vibe, the special sauce, and the best thing there ever was.

Show up all in with unwavering support of others, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by incredible women who believe in you. The impossible, scary, overwhelming is actually possible. It’s a spine-tingling sisterhood that makes you feel safer than bear spray.

Learn About Our Community

3 Support to Go Solo

80% of our travelers rock up solo with their bad selves and leave with an entire she-pack of besties. How many times have we delayed a trip because our partners aren’t into it or our friends are busy? Explorer Chick makes solo travel hella-welcoming with a mini sisterhood that melts away all the weirdness of “going it alone.”

Why You Should Travel Solo

4 Pro-Age Travel

Badass women ages 30-60+ bust their booties up mountains, down waterfalls, and across glaciers. There is no upper age limit on our adventures. We welcome you no matter your age!

There is only knowing your body and choosing the appropriate experience. We don’t care how many uggo compression socks or knee braces you bring — mindset is the only thing that matters.

Worried You're Too Old? Read This.

5 Courage to Do It Anyway

Face your fears with women who are also crapping themselves over heights, open water, and being away from home for the first time in years. This isn’t an anonymous tour group where everyone politely nibbles their granola bars. Explorer Chicks lose their voices cheering you out from your comfort zone. Remember: Easy doesn’t change you.

The Mantra We Live By

6 All the SHE-Nanigans

What could be better than a stunning canyon view at dusk? Hearing Jenn’s strangled fart bounce about the rock walls.

Leave your best behavior at home and bring that weird goat energy that got you into trouble with the Costco Free Samples lady.

Our adventures combine the best parts of being a grownup with a credit card AND a goofy friend. We attract a diverse yet specific demographic of adventurer who is equal parts kind, brave, and sh*tshow. Buckle up and enjoy the ride.

explorer chick women travel company on a game drive in queen elizabeth national park in uganda watching elephants cross the road

7 Mindless Wandering

Get that bucket-list itinerary without sweating a single brain cell. Our expert planning lets you stay fully present—mindlessly wander, breathe in the moment, and create memories that last a lifetime.

All you have to do is board a plane. What’s included on each small-group, women-only adventure is your safety equipment, outdoor gear, reservations, entrance fees, permits, accommodation, transportation, included meals, and more.

What's Included On Our Trips

the explorer chick team on a hike in red rock canyon in las vegas with our team banner

8 Your Dream Team

No rock climber bros or wheezing ornithologists in sight. Explorer Chick guides are wilderness trained and certified to worship your well-being––and they are also really, really fun. We probably snagged Travel and Leisure’s WORLD’S BEST Tour Operator accolade because of our sick dance moves.

Meet The Dream Team

9 We Give a Damn

Coming on strong is our jam. You’re about the only thing we’re super serious about around here. And it’s written in our guiding principles to treat you with endless love and respect like we’ve been bffs since second grade. Should we write our initials in the sand now, or?

Our mantra: Give ‘em what they never dreamed possible. Everything we do, from planning the itinerary to sneaking in pop-up surprises to hyping you on social media, is designed to help you feel deliciously powerful. So you can’t help but find your edge.

Learn More About Us

10 You + EC = 4 Ever

Our retention rate for returning travelers is 30 PERCENT. That is absolutely bananas when you consider most people return to their snoozefest tour companies exactly zero times. We are constantly on-boarding new trips, more guides, and exciting new adventures to keep Explorer Chicks coming back for more.

Read Our Testimonials

In Her Words

Nancy M.

My recent Zion & Bryce trip was my 3rd Explorer Chick trip. It was another great experience that I won't forget. The parks are amazing and the cayoneering was my favorite. Christina and Kirstie are the dynamic duo with so much experience, energy, and full of fun. They were so attentive and supportive and went above and beyond to make sure we had an awesome experience. Highly recommend!!

Maegan H.

I can not recommend Explorer Chick enough! I did the Zion and Bryce Canyon trip and it was beyond amazing! The details of every single thing is planned out and so thoughtful. The guides are amazing - Mary and Kirstie are the best! So genuine and down to Earth. So thoughtful and considerate! They really went out of their way to make the trip special for each of us. The food was amazing and very accommodating for every person. Sleeping arrangements were perfect. The adventures were just a dream! The bond with every single woman on the trip including the guides was beyond special. Everything was seriously a dream. I am still on cloud 9 from my trip and can't wait to do another trip with Explorer Chick!

Jennifer B.

What an amazing opportunity to gather women together to build confidence and strength. We started out as complete strangers and built trust and friendships. Our group had some that were frequent hikers to novice hikers. I am the novice. This group helped all to meet their goals. Our guides, Hannah and Katie are skilled in their knowledge of the outdoors and hiking. What I wasn’t expecting is they are skilled in listening and providing a new perspective to life and living.

Young J.

It was my first trip with Explorer Chick. I honestly didn't have much expectation, but this trip blew my mind regarding the group travel with strangers! Kirstie and Christina made it so special and it was nice to have someone taking care of the group of women who always on the moves taking care of their own people.
I didn't expect to have such good quality food and packed lunches on our hiking trip. Everything was so well organized and planned perfectly! Kirstie and Christina took great care of 10 women on our UT trip. They were the Yin and Yang perfect dynamic duo and I would love to do future Explore Chick trips with them again! One thing I felt bad for them was they had another group coming in the right next day of our trip didn't have time to recuperate at all. They had to drop us at the airport and hotel for the rest of the group then grocery shop for the next trip after 8pm!!
All in all, what a wonderful trip! I would definitely come back again and can't wait for the next adventure! Nice job Explore Chick!!!

Ginny A.

I recently got back from the Belize Jungle & Island Glamping Adventure Tour with Explorer Chicks. I can't say enough amazing things about this trip, our guide, and the company that planned it. They send you so much information to prepare you, including a detailed itinerary, packing lists, suggested gear, etc. From the moment our guide, Katie, picked me up from the airport I felt safe and well taken care of. I am wife and a mom of two. I spend my days taking care of everyone else and this trip was so special because someone took care of me the entire time. I never had to worry about where we were going, how we were getting there, or what we were doing next. It was an amazing brain break for this busy lady! I loved being challenged with new activities like caving, rappelling and zip-lining in the jungle. The snorkeling was unbelievable and Belizean line-fishing was a blast. Accommodations in all 3 places were comfortable and clean. One of the most unexpected parts of the trip was learning so much about the culture, food, animals and landscape of Belize. Thank you so much to Katie and Explorer Chicks for providing me with a trip of a lifetime!

Holley H.

Kirstie and Christina or as I have named them Kirstina. This was my first Explorer Chick trip and they have set the bar very high for my next trip. Everything was so well orchestrated in regards to timing, what to have in your pack, to meals, snacks, There were moments of my own personal self doubt that they talked me through. They met each woman where they needed to be met in regards to their needs. And they are hysterically funny. I cannot recommend this duo enough. Thanks ladies! You are my heroes.

Lana E.

I have been wanting to venture out of my comfort zone and have a story to remember and tell others about. Deciding to jump in with Explorer Chicks and head to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon is a game changer. I have never taken a trip like this before, especially one so adventurous. Leaving all arrangements up to EC and the guides is just the beginning. My trips guides, Katie K. and Mary C.M. were are the best! From the first encounter to the last hugs, these two ladies made me feel welcomed and ready to take on any challenge. I always felt supported, encouraged and safe during my adventure. They lead by example and were emotional available and venerable with the rest of us. Every morning outside their tents, they provided us a coffee bar. Also, we NEVER stopped for gas, only bathroom and snack breaks. How is that possible unless these ladies were working throughout the nights as fun fairies! Our group of ladies varied in age from low 40's to 70. During our adventures, Katie and Mary sandwiched us between them and no one felt left behind. Our accommodations were spiffy and the food delicious. I ate better (healthier and flavorful) on trail than I do in my own home. Explorer Chicks has my vote and I encourage all ladies wanting to step out a little or a lot... sign up! You are worth it, you are enough!

Sarah H.

So glad I took the risk to sign up for a trip with Explorer Chicks! I did the Zion / Bryce Glamping trip and it was AMAZING! Guides Katy and Mary were top notch.. so knowledgeable of the history of the area and so organized and energetic! All the food and accommodations were great and of course the hiking / canyoneering was unreal. I will definitely do more trips with EC and would recommend them to anyone. I went alone… don’t be afraid to do that!!

Elaine C.

Mary and Katie made the the explorer chick trip to Zion and Bryce the adventure of a lifetime! Every detail was taken care of. All we had to do was show up and have fun! The hikes, glamping resort, meals and adventures were perfection! We also had a great group of women to share the experience with! I will be booking another trip with explorer chick in the future and would love for Mary and Katie to be my guides again!

Catherine S.

I have never traveled with Explorer Chicks. I read some reviews and booked a summer hike to my next bucket list in Machu Picchu. My daughter surprised me with a spring Zion and Bryce Canyon Glamping trip in celebration of our birthdays and to test my training. And the trip far was magnificent, exceeding my expectations!

Mary and Katie were our guides, and they were amazing. They welcomed the eight of us in our group on Day 1 with a fun music ice breaker for the long ride to the park. They anticipated our needs with extra stops, snacks, drinks, stories, words of encouragement and support as each of us embraced a new challenge with increased confidence and strength. They prepared us for each day with a hearty breakfast and information to set us up for success. Lunches were homemade and delicious in a lunch bag printed with our name and a heart. This is just one example of Mary and Katie’s nurturing touches.

Mary’s knowledge of geology and nature and Katie’s knowledge of yoga and health were a winning combination. The hikes in Zion and Bryce Canyon were breathtaking and awe-inspiring. Mary and Kate shared an introduction for each hike. Rappelling and canyoneering tested my comfort level. They helped us with every step and instilled a sense of competence by breaking the tasks into small steps. I loved the pride I felt when we were done! Mary and Katie gave us instructions for wading through the Narrows in Zion. The weather was perfect, and we spent hours walking through the water surrounded by incredible views.

Dinner was spent at local ranch restaurants with fresh delicious food. Our glamping campsite was comfortable with WiFi, electricity, heat and a fun hot tub.

The women we traveled with were strong and fun. Mary and Katie nurtured eight strangers into eight friends cheering and supporting each other.

I highly recommend Explorer Chicks for any woman looking for a challenging adventure with time for reflection in a safe and positive environment.

Missy S.

I've been home a little over a week from the Moab and Arches National Parks Hiking Weekend, and I can't stop thinking about it! Our guides, Christina and Kayla, were amazing, and took great care of us. I'm a little (A LOT) scared of heights, and they literally held my hand at times. I ended the trip feeling accomplished and exhausted, in the best way, and made memories that will last for the rest of my life. I saw parts of the parks that I would have never seen on my own. If you're on the fence about signing up for an Explorer Chick trip, let this be your sign to hop off that fence and sign up now!

Jennifer

The Zion and Bryce Glamping trip far exceeded my expectations in every way. Our incredible guides, Mary and Katie, were both supportive and uplifting throughout the journey. Their calming presence and genuine connection to nature helped ease my fear of heights, allowing me to fully embrace each adventure.

Canyoneering and rappelling were exhilarating experiences that pushed me outside my comfort zone in the best way. Hiking the rim of Bryce Canyon and wading through the Narrows were both breathtaking journeys—each offering awe-inspiring views and unforgettable moments..

Mary brought the landscape to life with her deep knowledge of the area’s history and geology—plus, she never let us go too long without a fun facts and snacks break! Katie’s peaceful, grounding energy added a serene touch to the entire experience. The lunches they prepared for our hikes were not only delicious but thoughtfully crafted—we were thrilled they shared their recipes with us.

The campsite itself was a dream: charming glamping tents equipped with heat, electricity, and WiFi made for a cozy stay. After long hikes, soaking in the hot tub under the stars was the perfect way to unwind. And the food? The farm-to-table meals at the ranch restaurant were absolutely superb—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.

This trip was the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and soul-nourishing connection to nature. Highly recommended! Looking forward to my next adventure with Mary and Katie!

Stacey

I got back from Zion and Bryce Canyon a few days ago and have been unable to stop talking about this phenomenal trip! Our guides, Kirstie and Mary, were nothing short of amazing. Every conceivable need was met during the trip. Constant words of encouragement and support as we all embraced challenges and grew both in confidence and strength. I cannot recommend this company enough. The women I met during this trip will hopefully remain lifelong friends, and I am already looking at booking my next trip. I felt completely safe and confident in the expertise of our guides, which allowed me to truly enjoy a stress free, but active vacation. Thank you, Explorer Chick for such a fantastic experience!

Jackie W.

I went on the Jungle and Island Belize Adventure. The trip was well worth it with so many exciting activities in the jungle and the sea. The group leaders were superb!

Rachel K.

This was my first trip with Explorer Chicks and I couldn’t have dreamed of a better experience! Our guides - Christina and Kirstie - were the kindest and most patient guides. They thought of everything down to every last detail. It was so well organized and I was blown away with the trip; I’m already wanting to plan my next one. Thank you for making it such a memorable experience! I’m forever grateful.

Bring along your bestie, sister, mom, or grandma – we’re all about the memories, no matter who you bring!

And if you have an experience like Corrine and Jennifer did, we’ve hit the mark 🥳

Corrine and Jennifer, an awesome sister duo, joined us in Belize last year and loved it so much they came back to explore Yosemite with us this September!

I could go on about how incredible this Yosemite tour is, but Jennifer sums it up perfectly: “What’s really amazing is how much of Yosemite you see on this trip... you get the full experience.”

And she’s right. This trip truly is the full Yosemite experience.

From hiking iconic trails like Sentinel Dome, Mist Trail, and The Cathedral Lakes Trail (to name a few) to relaxing by the clear, lush waters of Tenaya Lake – if you’re not already drooling over this trip, it might be time for a check-up! 🥾🤩

Huge thanks to Corrine and Jennifer for joining us again. Your energy lights up every adventure 🫶🏼

#yosemitepark #yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #hikeyosemite #womenwhotravel #grouptravel #womenstravel #ECinherwords #explorerchickyosemite

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Bring along your bestie, sister, mom, or grandma – we’re all about the memories, no matter who you bring!

And if you have an experience like Corrine and Jennifer did, we’ve hit the mark 🥳

Corrine and Jennifer, an awesome sister duo, joined us in Belize last year and loved it so much they came back to explore Yosemite with us this September!

I could go on about how incredible this Yosemite tour is, but Jennifer sums it up perfectly: “What’s really amazing is how much of Yosemite you see on this trip... you get the full experience.”

And she’s right. This trip truly is the full Yosemite experience.

From hiking iconic trails like Sentinel Dome, Mist Trail, and The Cathedral Lakes Trail (to name a few) to relaxing by the clear, lush waters of Tenaya Lake – if you’re not already drooling over this trip, it might be time for a check-up! 🥾🤩

Huge thanks to Corrine and Jennifer for joining us again. Your energy lights up every adventure 🫶🏼

#yosemitepark #yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #hikeyosemite #womenwhotravel #grouptravel #womenstravel #ECinherwords #explorerchickyosemite

Those are some MAGICAL words✨

For Krista—and I’m sure many of us can relate—Yosemite wasn’t just another trip.

It was a soul-deep journey packed with growth, vulnerability, love, and a sisterhood she didn’t even know she needed 💗

The kind of adventure that leaves you feeling empowered, inspired, and totally transformed.

Krista, we’re obsessed with you! Thanks for sharing your story and fueling the fire for all of us at Explorer Chick 🥰

If Krista has convinced you to finally book that trip with us, comment “inspired” and I’ll send you over a link with all of our available trips 🫶🏼

#inspirationalwomen #inspired #yosemitenationalpark #allfemale #explorerchickyosemite #ECinherwords

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Those are some MAGICAL words✨

For Krista—and I’m sure many of us can relate—Yosemite wasn’t just another trip.

It was a soul-deep journey packed with growth, vulnerability, love, and a sisterhood she didn’t even know she needed 💗

The kind of adventure that leaves you feeling empowered, inspired, and totally transformed.

Krista, we’re obsessed with you! Thanks for sharing your story and fueling the fire for all of us at Explorer Chick 🥰

If Krista has convinced you to finally book that trip with us, comment “inspired” and I’ll send you over a link with all of our available trips 🫶🏼

#inspirationalwomen #inspired #yosemitenationalpark #allfemale #explorerchickyosemite #ECinherwords

Here’s the life-changing mantra we swear by:

“Easy doesn’t change you.” 🤟🏽

And trust me, these Explorer Chicks get it. They just wrapped up Avalanche Peak—one of Wyoming’s toughest hikes. We’re talking sweat, tears, laughter, and just a few dramatic foot cramp complaints (because, of course). But guess what? These total badasses crushed it, summiting like the queens they are. And yes, we’re over here bursting with pride—probably as much as they were bursting out of their hiking boots when the day was over 🥾

So, if you’re ready to swap comfort for a challenge and level up your adventure game, what are you waiting for? Lace up those boots, and come join us on the next Explorer Chick trip. Trust us, your future self will thank you. 😉

#explorerchickyellowstone #hikeyellowstone #inspirationalwomen #grouptravel #hiking #ECinherwords

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