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.

We even help you pack smart with our guide-approved hiking gear recommendations, tested in the field so you don’t waste time figuring out what to bring.

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.

⭐4.9 Stars from 500+ Women Travelers

Vanessa O.

I have been on two Explorer Chick vacations. Both with Kirstie and Kara as guides. Had a wonderful time on both. Highly recommend for anyone looking to connect with nature in a way that feels empowering and connecting to other women who enjoy nature as well.

Bernadette J.

Had a FABULOUS first trip with Explorer Chick in the Smoky Mountains in late Oct/early Nov. I'm new to hiking and was nervous about my ability to handle mountain trails and about my limited knowledge of camping/glamping. EC took care of everything, and I had an amazing experience! The pre-trip guidance was helpful because I didn't know where to start in terms of packing or preparing. Once we were on-site, our guides, Christina & Savannah, were the BEST!! Knowledgeable, supportive, energetic and great fun to be with. They handled every detail of the trip with great poise and expertise, and instilled confidence and built camaraderie in our rambunctious group of women! The hikes were spectacular (the fall foliage was a wonderful bonus), the pottery class was a blast, and learning about the history and ecology of the Smoky Mountains along the way was rewarding. Food was delicious and nourishing (TY Christina & Savannah!!) and the accommodations were clean & comfortable. Best of all, that rambunctious group of smart, funny, supportive and adventurous women are now friends. Looking forward to my next adventure with Explorer Chick!!

Paige L.

I went on the Zion/Bryce trip with guides Katie and Kayla. My word, they took such great care of us and the entire trip led to a lifetime of memories. We went in mid-October and unfortunately the weather turned quite stormy, so our itinerary got shifted around a good bit. Our guides did a marvelous job at keeping spirits high while also prioritizing safety. Since getting back home I have recommended Explorer Chick to anyone who will listen!

Laura M.

I used Explorer Chick for the first time in October for a hiking trip to Jordan. Everything was handled very professionally from the initial contact to book the trip to the end of the trip. Our guides were extremely knowledgable, fun and organized. The front office is very organized, as well. I am using Explorer Chick again for Red Rock hiking next year.

Ashley D.

Had an amazing time with friends old and new and made memories that will last a lifetime. Explorer Chick guides think of everything. We had great accommodations, lots of delicious food. Turned out better than I could have imagined.

Barbara W.

This was my first Explorer Chick trip and it exceeded all of my expectations. We went on the 4 day hiking trip in Moab with our fantastic guides, Mary and Christina. Everything was thoughtfully arranged and organized, right down to the morning coffee. They took tremendous care of us, and we wanted for nothing. The selection of hikes was perfect, just strenuous enough to make you feel challenged and invigorated, but not too much to wear you down. I loved this trip and cannot say enough wonderful things about Explorer Chick! They are the BEST!!!

Robin Lee H.

Jordan exceeded all expectations. Felt at all times safe, comfortable, challenged, welcomed by all Jordanians/Bedouins. The trip had challenge, learning, taste experiences & a close bond among our team. Jordan is a diamond in the rough that you won’t be disappointed you said YeS to Explorer Chicks.

Michele

For my first Explorer Chick adventure, I went to Moab in September with Jeannie P & Keziah P, & I had the best time! I don’t have much free time or extra money, but I’m so glad I signed up for this trip. I honestly can’t write anything that does it justice. If you're thinking about a trip, just go!!! You will not be disappointed.

Jeannie & Keziah created a relaxed, fun, adventurous, & welcoming group environment. The atmosphere couldn’t have been better!! They helped us step out of our comfort zones & be our best selves. I really hope to go on more of their trips. I put short trips together myself & I know how much work it is. But they made it seem effortless. Not only were the big things safe, organized, & smooth, but there were tons of surprising touches like girls night face masks, hidden hike treats, & lemon washclothes to cool down after a long hot hike. I would give these 2 guides 10 stars out of 5 if I could.

I’m a vegetarian (& I think I was the only one), so food is usually a challenge on group trips. Jeannie was so kind & thoughtful! The food was healthy & kept us hiking, but also really tasty & varied, with plenty of vegetarian options. She even brought dried cherries from her home!

Keziah was such a patient & skilled driver in that huge van. She made all the driving look easy.

Moab was gorgeous, & the mix of activities & experiences was perfect for me. We learned a lot about the habitats & geological history.

The condos were super comfortable & clean, with a nice balance of privacy & shared spaces for hanging out.

The community made this trip extra special too. I met amazing women & we quickly gelled. We were all storytellers, comedians, cheerleaders, adventurers, sisters. This trip became so much more than hiking & sightseeing!

Deep appreciation to Explorer Chick, Jeannie, Keziah, & all my travel buddies. This trip exceeded every expectation & became one of my favorite travel experiences.

(Explorer Chick booking & communications are also awesome. Great experience with you folks! Photos by Keziah.)

AK P.

This female only travel group is top tier. I recently went to Zion and Bryce Canyon with a group of 10 other women (2 of which were our guides). I didn’t know anyone when I showed up, but left with 10 new friend/travel buddies!
I really can’t say enough about this company. Their trips accommodate all levels of ability and are both CONUS and international!

Darcy G.

Just returned from an amazing experience on the 4 days Moab multi sport Explorer Chicks trip! Our guide, Katie, was solo and did a fabulous job for each and every one of us. I loved doing the various activities, especially repelling four times, complete with a fantastic female canyoneering guide named Ellie! Robby was great leading us through Dead Horse Canyon in the UTV’s - definitely the banks bumps and ledges were the best there. Katie lead us through several hikes in national parks, complete with a grand charcuterie board at Delicate Arch. Breakfasts, lunches and snacks were all well crafted by Katie too! So much food, no decisions to make, no driving or reservations to handle. Just plain adventure based fun with a great group of new friends.
If you are on the fence about joining one of these trips, just DO IT! You will not regret it!

Jody L.

Quite possibly the best 8 days of my life! Our guides, Savannah and Nicole took care of everything--transportation, meals, lodging, itinerary, permits, celebrations. Utah was beautiful; my explorer chick companions were capable and enthusiastic, and the memories I will carry with me forever. Book a trip, and get ready to hike with your (new) forever friends.

Christie G.

I had an incredible trip to Zion and Bryce canyon with Explorer Chicks with an even more incredible group of women! The trip was full of belly laughs, some women challenged their fears and the scenery was breathtakingly beautiful. My favorite part of the trip was the repelling into the slot canyons! Was such a fun experience but truly the whole trip was amazing! I came solo and left with 10 new friends! It was a very inspiring and empowering trip. Im already booking my next one. A huge thank you to my guides Kayla Lamb and Ashley Butler. They went above and beyond taking care of everyone. Don’t save it for later, book your Explorer Chicks trip now!

Erin H.

I highly recommend Explorer Chick to anyone who is looking for an inspiring, no pressure, bring your whole self organized tour and hike. The tour guides I had- Kayla and Katie were absolutely amazing. They made sure everyone had a great time and got their needs met, no matter what the persons skill level or comfort level was.

Traci M.

What a great group of women! I cant say enough about our guide Kirsti and all the women on our trip. This was my first trip but it will not be my last. I cant wait to schedule my next adventure with Exployer Chicks! Easy doesn’t change you🥰

Megan M.

Explorer Chick is an amazing premier travel company for adventurous women. The Machu Picchu multisport, Banff hut-to-hut, and Jordan trips have been unbelievable memory making experiences. More recently, the South Africa trip was a fantastic exploration of Capetown, shark-cage diving, Table Mountain hike, e-biking through wineries, safari to see the Big 5 in Greater Kruger national park, and cultural exploration of Johannesburg. It was very safe and expertly guided by both Explorer Chick and local guide collaboration. The accommodations and cuisine are always top notch. You will develop lifelong friendships and get the benefit of local expertise. Highly recommend!

Finding women who get you, who crave connection, adventure, and good old-fashioned cheerleading?

That’s not easy these days. Especially when you’re juggling work, motherhood, and about a thousand other things.

Explorer Chick Camille said it best: there really is something powerful about finally meeting women who match your vibe, who lift you up, cheer you on, and aren’t afraid to climb a mountain and go deep 🤍

If you’ve been searching for that kind of connection…comment “🥰” below!

#ecinherwords #grouptravel #femalefriendships #womenwhotravel #girlstrip #grouptravel #connection #travel

44 0

Open

Finding women who get you, who crave connection, adventure, and good old-fashioned cheerleading?

That’s not easy these days. Especially when you’re juggling work, motherhood, and about a thousand other things.

Explorer Chick Camille said it best: there really is something powerful about finally meeting women who match your vibe, who lift you up, cheer you on, and aren’t afraid to climb a mountain and go deep 🤍

If you’ve been searching for that kind of connection…comment “🥰” below!

#ecinherwords #grouptravel #femalefriendships #womenwhotravel #girlstrip #grouptravel #connection #travel

Rini started with a 3-day trip. Just a taste, but it lit a fire…

She felt the pull to go bigger, so she said yes to the Dolomites. Was she nervous? Totally.

But she also knew she wouldn’t be doing it alone. With a crew of supportive women and a guide she could trust, she leaned into the challenge, and came out stronger for it.

Sometimes the next trip isn’t just farther, it’s deeper. It’s the one that reminds you what you’re capable of ❤️

#ecinherwords #grouptravel #solofemaletravel #womenwhotravel #womenover40 #womenwhoexplore #italandolomites

27 2

Open

Rini started with a 3-day trip. Just a taste, but it lit a fire…

She felt the pull to go bigger, so she said yes to the Dolomites. Was she nervous? Totally.

But she also knew she wouldn’t be doing it alone. With a crew of supportive women and a guide she could trust, she leaned into the challenge, and came out stronger for it.

Sometimes the next trip isn’t just farther, it’s deeper. It’s the one that reminds you what you’re capable of ❤️

#ecinherwords #grouptravel #solofemaletravel #womenwhotravel #womenover40 #womenwhoexplore #italandolomites

Emily in Paris? Please. Meet Emily in Peru 🇵🇪 🙌🏽

Explorer Chick, Emily, joined us on our Machu Picchu Multisport Adventure and had nothing but love for her time with us. Sure, the Andes are breathtaking, but she swears the real magic was sharing the journey with an incredible crew of women.

Tag your favorite adventure buddy below and tell her it’s time for your next big “pinch-me” moment together 🌄💃

#ECinherwords #peru #grouptravel #womenwhotravel #sisterhood #machupicchu #hikeperu #traveladvice

44 5

Open