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

Christine H.

Just spent 4 days in Moab ringing in the New Year! What an incredible experience. The guides were amazing, knowledgeable, generous and fun. The group was great - felt comfortable right away and enjoyed our dynamic. This was my second EC adventure and both times were so well done. A true quality experience. Loved the beauty, the food, and the challenge.

Alex P.

I have done 2 trips with Explorer Chicks and have enjoyed them both immensely. The guides are very knowledgeable, progressional, encouraging, and overall great leaders.

Pauline W.

I am a mom of two boys and in my forties, looking for an adventure to enjoy activities that I love on/in the water. I found my way to my first Explorer Chick trip to Belize with Christina Bruno and local guide Wilson. I had the time of my life! The organization by EC was very smooth! My flight in arrived a bit late but I found my guides patiently waiting. All the activities were high quality and safe. They were not all "easy" but pitched at the right level to feel a sense of accomplishment. For Belize, the highlights were the ATM caves, rappelling down a waterfall, and all the kayaking (even in a storm!) and snorkeling (day and night). Thank you so much Christina and Wilson for a wonderful time!! This is one unforgettable trip for me!

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!

6/2025 update: Did another trip, still incredible! All the guides are so kind - Lauren and Kara were wonderful on this trip to the Great Smoky Mountains!

12/2025 update: This time I did the Belize trip! It was absolutely wonderful! Christina did an amazing job with the group and our local guides Wilson and Siri were so knowledgeable! Would still highly recommend Explorer Chick and would recommend the Belize trip!

Sandra T.

I had an amazing experience in Belize with Christina! The whole trip was planned perfectly and was a great adventure. I can’t wait for my next Explorer Chick trip!

Christine H.

This was my first explorer chick trip and it was absolutely incredible. Went on this trip with guide, Christina Bruno, and local guide Wilson. They were both incredible guides - so knowledgeable, organized, friendly, and curated a supportive and empowering environment. I had a fantastic vacation, where I was able to push myself to do things out of my comfort zone with the support of the group and my guides. I can’t wait to go on more of these 😊

Stephanie G.

12/2025 Oh Africa!
I just returned from the Uganda trip of a lifetime. Such an amazing experience. Too much to say about it but I enjoyed the whole trip!!

Lisa H.

Had a truly amazing and awe inspiring trip to Patagonia. All details were taken care of all the time. We never had to worry about anything. Great group of women, fantastic guides and beautiful and challenging adventures each day.

Ashley L.

Best trip ever!!!! Everything ran smoothly and it was so much fun. Our guides, Christina and Wilson, were truly the best. Highly recommend if you are able to book a trip with them. It was a great combination of adventure and relaxation. The food was amazing also. If you are thinking about going on the trip, DO IT!!!!!

Heather M.

Obsessed with this company now. I’ve been a solo traveler for the past 8 years and finally decided to sign up for a group trip. It far exceeded my expectations and didn’t have that “touristy” feel that typically comes with bookings through tour agencies. The women I traveled and adventured in Belize with were amazing, our Explorer Chick guide Christina B was fantastic and so supportive and inclusive, our local guide Wilson was amazing and so knowledgeable, informative, and passionate about everything nature in Belize. If you’re on the fence about booking a trip, DO IT. I just booked the Croatia one and I’m not even home from Belize yet lol easy doesn’t change you 💜

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.

We’ve all felt it…

That “pit in your stomach” the moment you realize you’re actually doing the thing that scares you. For Laurie, it was snorkeling in Belize. 🏝️🐚

In this unfiltered reality of solo travel, Laurie admits she almost let her fear win. She called herself a “weenie” and nearly stayed on the boat.

But she did something most people don’t: she said her fear out loud to her Explorer Chick guide, @theblondecoyote

And that’s where the magic happened ⭐️

Women’s adventure travel isn’t about being fearless. It’s about finding a sisterhood that doesn’t judge you when you’re terrified. It’s about trading “I can’t” for “I’m doing it scared.”

Because, as Laurie discovered, the “whole new world” waiting under the waves of the Belize Barrier Reef is worth every nervous tear 🌊

Send this to a friend who needs to hear that “doing it scared” is still a total win, and let’s give some love to Laurie in the comments 💖

#ecinherwords #doingitscared #womensadventure #womenstravel #womenwhotravel

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We’ve all felt it…

That “pit in your stomach” the moment you realize you’re actually doing the thing that scares you. For Laurie, it was snorkeling in Belize. 🏝️🐚

In this unfiltered reality of solo travel, Laurie admits she almost let her fear win. She called herself a “weenie” and nearly stayed on the boat.

But she did something most people don’t: she said her fear out loud to her Explorer Chick guide, @theblondecoyote

And that’s where the magic happened ⭐️

Women’s adventure travel isn’t about being fearless. It’s about finding a sisterhood that doesn’t judge you when you’re terrified. It’s about trading “I can’t” for “I’m doing it scared.”

Because, as Laurie discovered, the “whole new world” waiting under the waves of the Belize Barrier Reef is worth every nervous tear 🌊

Send this to a friend who needs to hear that “doing it scared” is still a total win, and let’s give some love to Laurie in the comments 💖

#ecinherwords #doingitscared #womensadventure #womenstravel #womenwhotravel

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

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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

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