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Why Choose

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.

We know what women want on vacation. We also know what it takes for women to actually GO on vacation.

You’re the glue. The overthinkers. The on-demand. The last in line. Frantically setting your out-of-office in the Uber to the airport while your partner texts to ask what dog food brand to buy. (Really?)

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. 

7 Mindless Wandering

Get that bucket-list itinerary without sweating a single brain cell. 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

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

Robin R.Robin R. ★★★★★ There are no words to really explain the outstanding trip to Uganda!There was everything from seamless planning of accommodations to transport both in air and ground. More than this, was the camaraderie that this group displayed! We supported each other , and had a complete blast!! Nicki our guide is passionate about what she does and it shows, she was fun, and is a total package leader! The hikes and trekking for the animals especially the chimpanzees and gorillas was so DAMN amazing! Had to pinch myself so many times! I was in Africa! Not just in Africa, but having my dreams come to life about seeing the beauty and all the creatures! If you are hesitating about this trip STOP. Book it. Hike in the jungle, get wet, be a dirty girl!! Live life!!Accommodations and food were unreal!Lisa B.Lisa B. ★★★★★ If you prefer to work really hard and spend lots of time and energy planning a trip and dealing with the headache of navigating, finding good places to eat and fun things to do all on your own then this is not for you. Now if you prefer to show up and have amazing people guide you and cover every detail so you don't have to and love every minute of it, then this is definitely for you! As a solo traveler I was warmly welcomed (with a margarita!), met some amazing women and had the adventure of a lifetime. It would not have been possible without our brilliant guides Lauren & Amanda on the Smoky Mountain Boots & Roots Hiking Trip. This being my first time I would not hesitate to book another trip. Amazing experience!!Dawn Julian M.Dawn Julian M. ★★★★★ I just got back from the Moab/Arches trip, and wow, what a fantastic adventure! Kayla and Jess were incredible, making every moment super enjoyable. It was such a treat to just relax and soak in the experience without worrying about the details. I’m definitely booking with Explorer Chick again!Kitty F.Kitty F. ★★★★★ 2 day 1 night - Red River Gorge, with the best group ever! Thank you so much Jody, wonderful, knowledgeable, guide. As well as a big thank you to the amazing group of "chicks". Thank you!carrie P.carrie P. ★★★★★ Amazing trip!!! Lauren and Amanda were fantastic, so patient. Accomodations and food perfect....Already looking for another trip!lisa B.lisa B. ★★★★★ Our Las Vegas weekend was amazing! Our guide Kara led us through our adventures like a pro! Rock climbing, amazing dinners, kayaking and overnight camping . She listened to our requests and worked with our needs. We had so much fun and made new friends - A+Deanna F.Deanna F. ★★★★★ What a fantastic trip! Kirstie and Hannah made everything perfect, from changing our itinerary due to weather, to making delicious lunches, snacks when needed, and taking us to experience some amazing places! I would highly recommend joining these ladies, but only if you want to have an adventure to remember! I already have another trip booked! 🙌🥾Lisa H.Lisa H. ★★★★★ Had the best time ever!! Got to do things I never would have dreamed of and accomplished things that I'm very proud of. Our guide Kirstie was fantastic, as was our Islandic guide/driver. Everything was planned out and taken care of so that all we (the 12 Explorer Chicks on this trip) had to think about was the next fun activity or the next great meal. I would SOOOO do another adventure with Explorer Chicks and recommend to anyone that has the desire to do something possibly out of their comfort zone. This gave me the confidence to tackle more things in the future like this.Lauren R.Lauren R. ★★★★★ I'm not sure there are any words to truly describe what an incredible experience I've just returned from in Iceland I had previously done a few local events with Explorer Chick, but this was my first big trip with them. I would give this 10 stars if I could! I can't believe all of the things that we fit into 1 week. Memories to last a lifetime.. ice climbing on a glacier, incredible waterfalls, driving ATVS on a black sand beach, hot springs, a beautiful and challenging hike. So many things! It was SO incredible to just show up and have everything else planned and taken care of for me. Our guide, Kirstie Mullikin, was top-notch! She went far out of her way to ensure that every single one of us had a wonderful experience. She made sure that I, with the culinary sophistication of a 5-year old, did not go hungry! This trip far exceeded any expectations I had. Looking forward to my next trip with Explorer Chick!Dr Deb S.Dr Deb S. ★★★★★ What a great experience! The trip location (Iceland) was phenomenal and the guide (Kirstie!) was the best guide one could imagine! I will travel again with Explorer Chicks, in a heartbeat an hopefully get Kirstie as guide again!! The group of ladies on this trip were diverse in their backgrounds, experience, and age but they were all out there enjoying the experience! Highly, HIGHLY recommend!!Amanda C.Amanda C. ★★★★★ Great experience!Casey W.Casey W. ★★★★★ Savannah was a fantastic guide, and the rest of the women on our trip were great too! I was most concerned about the group dynamic as a more introverted hiker, but the atmosphere was perfect! Hoping for trips to Washington national parks in the future.Monika M.Monika M. ★★★★★ I explored Arches and Canyonlands National parks solo with 6 other women and two fabulous guides, Katie and Kayla with EC. I felt immediately comfortable with our group and found it very rewarding and retreat like. We hiked, we kareoked, we laughed, and did the challenging things, it was so worth it. This company makes great lady adventures and you don’t have to lift a finger just your feet. You will not regret this trip. Loved it.PJ A.PJ A. ★★★★★ Challenging adventures full of laughter. Great leadership, thank you Lauren, and opportunities for new friendships. Meals and accommodations were perfect.Lisa J.Lisa J. ★★★★★ Went on the Alaskan adventure with Nicole B and Kayla L as our spectacular guides!! Everything was jam packed-n-top notch adventure fun. Starting off with an exhilarating hike to a few glacial lakes, to ice climbing and sea kayaking. All the event guides we encountered were superb as well. We hiked some more, saw the copper mines and many different cities, a little history, a little dart throwing and dinner. Went to the fish hatchery, saw some sea lions and learned how the salmon is bred to be the best in Alaska. The guide prepared food was excellent every detail was well thought and appreciated and I felt safe the entire trip. Would definitely go on another EC adventure again! Lisajs_loader

As Seen In

Ready to Join Our Girl Gang?

Iceland Glaciers and Hot Springs Winter Adventure
Iceland Glaciers and Hot Springs Winter Adventure

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 New
Patagonia W Trek Hut to Hut

7 DAYS, CHILE

Bucket List, Hiking, Multiday Treks, New, 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
West Virginia Wild Weekend
West Virginia Wild Weekend

4 DAYS, WEST VIRGINIA

Camping, Multisport, National Park, US-Based, Water Sports, Weekend, White Water Rafting
Camping
Yellowstone Hiking and Wildlife with Grand Teton
Yellowstone Hiking and Wildlife with Grand Teton

7 DAYS, WYOMING

Bucket List, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hot Springs, Multisport, National Park, US-Based, White Water Rafting, 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 New
Shenandoah Hiking, Winery, and Sunsets Weekend

3 DAYS, VIRGINIA

Hiking, Multisport, National Park, US-Based, Weekend
Locally Unique
Italian Dolomites Hiking and Multisport New
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 New
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
Scotland Unspoiled Hiking Tour
Scotland Unspoiled 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