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Why Choose Explorer Chick

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.

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. 

Read Our Testimonials

⭐4.9 Stars from 400+ Women Travelers

Rebecca L.
Just got home from Zion and Bryce. The trip was absolutely amazing. Incredibly well organized, our guides Brooke and Ashley went above and beyond. Definitely want to plan another Explorer Chick trip
Angie G.
This was my first trip with Explorer Chick. It was beyond wonderful to show up without planning anything and have four amazing days in the Moab desert. Every detail was well thought out from the hikes, to accommodations, to meals. Although I booked this trip with friends, I would totally do a future trip alone knowing I would share the experience with fun, open, and adventurous women. Thank you! I only wish I was still on the mountains.
Melissa W.
Absolutely Amazing! I went to Yellowstone 4 day geysers and hot springs. Savannah and Ashley were our guides. This was the trip of my lifetime! It was beautiful and challenging and I learned so much. Ashley and Savannah were so knowledgeable and inspiring. I had talked about Explorer Chick for a few years and so happy I made it a reality. Meeting these women and sharing this experience was the best decision I’ve made. I am already planning my next three trips with Explorer Chick. If you’re not sure or on the fence… book it! You deserve it. It was amazing
Barbara W.
I just got back from Zion / Bryce and it's hard to find the words to express what an amazing time I had. Our guides, Hannah and Kayla were so wonderful and authentic and funny and kind that it let all of us on the trip be our authentic selves as well. It was so wonderful not to have to worry about any of the details as Explorer Chick took care of everything. If you're nervous about going on a trip like this by yourself, don't be. There was so much communication ahead of time and an opportunity to get to know my fellow travelers, that I felt like I already knew a couple of them before I got there. I can't wait to go on another trip with this company soon! I'd give them 10 stars if I could. :)
Jerri V.
I would give 10 stars if I could! I just returned from the 4-day Zion & Bryce hiking trip and it was the most amazing experience! The hiking and scenery were beautiful, but what really made this trip special was our amazing guides Hannah and Kayla, and the friendships we made along the way. Our glamping tents were comfortable, the food was great and the activities were well-planned for us. They took care of everything for us so that we could enjoy our time. I can't wait to return for another adventure with Explorer Chick!!
Dara D.
I had an amazing experience on my first Explorer Chick adventure, 4 days of hiking in Arches and Canyonlands NPs with Moab as our home base. The trip exceeded my expectations. Everything was so well organized and smoothly handled by our two fabulous guides, Jeannie and Keziah. They took care of every detail so we could just soak up every moment, on and off the trails. They spoiled us with surprises, cooked delicious and plentiful meals, and kept communication clear and easy the whole time. Honestly, I don’t know how the trip could’ve been any better. Jeannie and Keziah were the heart and soul of it all, not only making every activity that much more fun and memorable, but also helping a group of mostly strangers quickly feel like old friends.
audrie C.
Just decompressing from the Zion, Bryce canyon trip. I've read the other reviews and feel like they hit the mark about how amazing this trip is. So I want to go a little deeper down the rabbit hole. Yes, the scenery was epic, no doubt about that. The scheduling was on point. Never rushed, but never felt we were missing out on anything either. But here's the thing. Your guides are the memory makers. Hannah and Kayla. Damn. The attention to detail broke my brain. A casual vase with flowers in the cup holder of the van. Our packed lunches and snacks bagged with our names and sweet drawings. Letting us shout out song requests while driving and playing our songs. A box of snacks at our disposal in the van just for fun. Walking into dinner somewhere and immediately seated no questions asked. They wouldn't let us help clean or prep, ever. We had zero obligations but just to wake up. The way they'd each casually drop back on the trails and chat with each of us individually and let us vent about our lives. The attention to our pace and making sure no one felt overwhelmed. Letting us swear up a storm with zero judgement. They carried (hidden in their packs) a damn watermelon for 5 miles so they could slice it up for us at a scenic stop in Bryce Canyon. They were uniquely themselves but also an extension of each other. Hannah has an authentically peaceful way she moves around the world and you gravitate to her calm. Kayla has this young curious charm about her that feels contagious. They were both serious and vulnerable to us at the same time, still not sure how they did that. Their behind the scenes work to make this trip so smooth is one for the books. They presented us with wonderful personal dinners and every detail was thought out. Sparkling iced tea, charcuterie boards presented on a picnic table that rivaled a nice restaurant. When we had to divert a planned hike because of weather/safety, they were truly disappointed for us. Finally, I've been in a customer service business for 30 years and these are the kind of employees (Hannah and Kayla) that would keep me up at night because I knew my competitors would try to hire them away. They're the front line of your business and your business is in excellent hands. Trying to think of just one piece of constructive criticism but I got nothing. Loved my experience!
Gretchen P.
Just returned from Maine trip and it was exceptional. Katie and Nicole were wonderful guides. I'm from Maine and took this trip as a "stay-cation" to scratch a few things off my bucket list and let someone else take care of the logistics. I can 100% say this trip covered everything and then some to get the FULL Maine experience. Coming back and reflecting on the trip I love this state I live in so much more. Thanks Explorer Chick!
Candice
Have take 2 Explorer Chick trips - in US and Croatia. Amazing group of women, fantastic guides. Would highly recommend. Food, fun, sights, adventures, friendships - these trips have it all.
Elaine C.
I have just returned home to Florida after enjoying an awesome adventure with Explorer Chick. We hiked the Boots and Roots Tour in The Smoky Mountains with Guides Ashley Butler and Kayla Lamb. Since I am a vegetarian, I was concerned about the food being served as part of the trip - No need to worry - they have thought of everything and the meals were delicious. I was the oldest at 79 but I felt welcomed and encouraged - I honestly can't think of a thing that could have been changed. The trip was very safe, well organized and, most of all, fun. All the gals in the group were warm and interesting and our guides were delightful.
Kathy H.
This was a vacation of a lifetime for me. Explorer Chick Adventure Co. along with Mary Morton made it all possible. Every activity was interesting, challenging, life changing or a combination of all three. If you want a trip where all you need to do is show up, this is for you. I met 15 amazing women that supported me through the toughest hike of my life. When I think of them now, I choke up a bit and hope to cross paths with them again. Thanks Explorer Chicks and special thanks to Mary Morton.
Mandy K.
I went to the Italian Dolemites. My guides were Kirsty and Anna. They made sure we were prepared for each day, had all the details planned, and provided an array of adventures. This was my third EC trip and I will continue exploring with them.
Taylor K
Unbelievable experience. Will 100% go on another trip!
Deneta L.
Alaska was AMAZING! Our guides Nicole and Lauren were phenomenal - they thought of EVERYTHING & this was an epic trip and my first with Explorer Chick.
I enjoyed every minute, every adventure, every person (all strangers day 1, but will forever call friends), but my favorite experience was ice climbing. Highly recommend EC.
carrie P.
Amazing trip to Va !!! Lauren led us on an epic journey through the day and night. We learned so much at the Mountain
Shepard Adventure School. Looking forward to hiking with my new tools.
.
Another trip in the books. ALASKA. Truly amazing. Saw so much and new challenges. Bucket list. Guides, fellow chick's and scenery added to the experience.

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
She said it best: “If you’ve been thinking about joining an Explorer Chick trip… the answer is YES.” 🤍

Yes to showing up and feeling at home right away.
Yes to big laughs, new friends, and zero logistics stress.
Yes to finally putting yourself first for a few days.

✨ Tag the friend you’re going to say “yes” to an adventure with!

#solofemaletraveler #grouptravelforwomen #womenwhotravel #womenwhoexplore #hikingtrips  #explorerchicksmokies #ECinherwords

As Seen In

Ready to Join Our Girl Gang?

Iceland Northern Lights and Hot Springs Adventure Tour
Iceland Northern Lights and Hot Springs Adventure Tour

7 DAYS, ICELAND

Bucket List, Glacier Trek, Hiking, Hot Springs, Ice Climbing, International, Multisport, Off Roading, Snowy Adventures
Hotel
Moab and Arches National Parks Hiking Weekend
Moab and Arches National Parks Hiking Weekend

4 DAYS, UTAH

Hiking, National Park, US-Based, Weekend
Shared House
Patagonia W Trek Hut to Hut
Patagonia W Trek Hut to Hut

7 DAYS, CHILE

Backpacking, Bucket List, Hiking, Multiday Treks, Trekking
Hotel, Mountain Huts
Alaska Hiking, Kayaking, and Glacier Tour
Alaska Hiking, Kayaking, and Glacier Tour

7 DAYS, ALASKA

Bucket List, Glacier Trek, Hiking, Ice Climbing, Multisport, National Park, Paddling, US-Based, Water Sports, Wildlife
Hotel, Locally Unique
Banff Canada Hiking Hut-to-Hut Backpacking
Banff Canada Hiking Hut-to-Hut Backpacking

6 DAYS, CANADA

Backpacking, Bucket List, Glacier Trek, Hiking, International, Multiday Treks
Hotel, Mountain Huts
Galapagos Island Hopping Multisport Adventure
Galapagos Island Hopping Multisport Adventure

9 DAYS, ECUADOR

Bucket List, Hiking, International, Multisport, Paddling, Tropical, Water Sports, Wildlife
Hotel, Locally Unique
Yellowstone Hiking and Wildlife with Grand Teton
Yellowstone Hiking and Wildlife with Grand Teton

7 DAYS, WYOMING

Bucket List, Cycling, Hiking, Hot Springs, Multisport, National Park, US-Based, Wildlife
Hotel
Zion and Bryce Hiking and Glamping
Zion and Bryce Hiking and Glamping

4 DAYS, UTAH

Glamping, Hiking, Multisport, National Park, Rappelling, US-Based, Weekend
Glamping
Slovenia Alps Hiking Hut to Hut and More
Slovenia Alps Hiking Hut to Hut and More

8 DAYS, SLOVENIA

Cycling, Hiking, International, Multiday Treks, Multisport, White Water Rafting
Hotel, Mountain Huts
Shenandoah Hiking, Winery, and Sunsets Weekend
Shenandoah Hiking, Winery, and Sunsets Weekend

3 DAYS, VIRGINIA

Hiking, Multisport, National Park, US-Based, Weekend
Locally Unique
Italian Dolomites Hiking and Multisport
Italian Dolomites Hiking and Multisport

8 DAYS, ITALY

Bucket List, Cycling, Hiking, International, Multisport, Water Sports
Hotel, Boutique, Mountain Huts
Croatia Hiking National Parks and Multisport Adventure Tour
Croatia Hiking National Parks and Multisport Adventure Tour

8 DAYS, CROATIA

Bucket List, Climbing, Cycling, Hiking, International, Multisport, Paddling, Water Sports
Hotel
Maine and Acadia National Park Hiking Adventure
Maine and Acadia National Park Hiking Adventure

7 DAYS, MAINE

Glamping, Hiking, National Park, Paddling, US-Based, Water Sports, Wildlife
Locally Unique, Glamping
Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu Adventure
Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu Adventure

9 DAYS, PERU

Bucket List, Camping, Hiking, Trekking
Hotel, Camping
Las Vegas Climbing and Paddling Weekend Adventure
Las Vegas Climbing and Paddling Weekend Adventure

4 DAYS, NEVADA

Camping, Climbing, Multisport, Paddling, Water Sports
Hotel, Camping
Red River Gorge Backpacking Workshop
Red River Gorge Backpacking Workshop

2 DAYS, KENTUCKY

Backpacking, US-Based, Weekend, Workshop
Backpacking
Best of Scotland: Isle of Skye & Highlands Women’s Adventure Hiking Tour
Best of Scotland: Isle of Skye & Highlands Women’s Adventure Hiking Tour

8 DAYS, SCOTLAND

Bucket List, Hiking, International
Hotel, Locally Unique
Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Safari Adventure
Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Safari Adventure

10 DAYS, UGANDA

Bucket List, Glamping, Hiking, International, Multisport, Safari, Wildlife
Locally Unique, Safari Lodge