Why Choose Explorer Chick - Women-Only Adventure Travel

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

Joyce L.

Can’t say enough amazing things about Explorer Chick Adventure Trips! I recently did the Shenandoah National Park hiking trip with my sister and five other women who started as complete strangers but quickly became friends. The entire experience was unforgettable, but the absolute highlight of the trip was our incredible guides, Christina and Savannah.

These women deserve 5 stars across the board for everything, customer care, knowledge, leadership, encouragement, fun, and heart. They were so attentive to everyone’s dietary needs and restrictions, always checking in and making sure every woman felt comfortable, included, and supported. They set the perfect pace for the group and created such a positive, uplifting environment.

Christina and Savannah are extremely knowledgeable about the trails, terrain, and hiking experience overall. You can tell they are experienced athletes, adventurers, and truly passionate about what they do. Beyond their skills, what inspired me most was watching two such strong, accomplished women genuinely dedicate themselves to lifting up and encouraging other women to believe in their own strength and push beyond their comfort zones.

This trip was so much more than hiking. It was empowering, inspiring, healing, fun, and full of connection. I left feeling stronger, more confident, and so grateful for the experience and the friendships made along the way.

Highly, highly recommend Explorer Chick Adventure Trips and if you get Christina and Savannah as your guides, you are incredibly lucky!

Cathie W.

If you’re considering an adventure with Explorer Chick Boots and Roots in the Smoky Mountains — book it. This trip exceeded every expectation. Our guides, Kirstie and Cailyn, were absolutely phenomenal. They went out of their way every single day to make sure we were well-fed, well-guided, comfortable, and enjoying the experience. From yummy "Trader Joes" style meals to unforgettable moments, they created an experience I will remember fondly.

One of the highlights was Cailyn fully committing to the fun by donning overalls for an authentic moonshine tasting experience that had all of us smiling from ear to ear. It’s those little touches that made the trip feel so personal and memorable.

And then there was the hike to Charlie’s Bunion that had to replace Ramsay's Cascade due to bear activity... 8 miles round trip (uphill both ways LOL just kidding) and worth every single step. The views were simply breathtaking. Truly the view of a lifetime. Standing there in the Smokies, surrounded by those endless mountain ridges, is something I’ll never forget.

If you want incredible guides, meaningful experiences, beautiful scenery, and memories you’ll be talking about long after you get home, just book the trip!

Tracey L.

My sister and I participated in a 3 day Shenandoah Hiking Adventure and it was an exceptional experience, in large part because of our two guides, Christina and Savannah. They are both incredible woman with a vast knowledge of hiking in the wilderness and an intense passion for all that they do, which includes leading many, many expeditions throughout the U.S., and around the world. We felt so fortunate that we had them as guides because they have so many years of experience hiking in a diverse range of terrains and climate zones, couples with years of experience as a guides, which means they have highly honed skills when it comes to leading participants during all of our hikes, and through all aspects of the tour experience. One of the challenges of leading tours like this is that participants vary greatly in their levels of experience, fitness, and personality styles, and yet, both Christina and Savannah managed this challenge with great facility. They were able to create an environment that fostered connection and camaraderie, and that encouraged everyone to challenge themselves in positive and growth-enhancing ways. Additionally, the hikes we took were all spectacular. The beauty of the Shenandoah's is incredible. I experienced so much peace, pleasure and joy from the time we spent hiking along various trails. For anyone who enjoys time in nature, or who wants an opportunity for nature immersion, this tour definitely fits the bill. Additionally, Explorer Chicks does a great job of planning and communicating all of the logistics which made it possible to let go of everyday hassles and to be fully present for the wonderful experiences that were offered through this tour.

Glenda D.

To start off, our guides were fantastic. Full of knowledge and so very kind. We were all shock to hear that this was the first guided hike that Mary and Laura had done together. It’s like they just clicked. Thought they’d been together for a long time. Hikes did not disappoint and we had a nice bunch of girls, which made it fun. Hoping that all of our paths will cross again on another Explorer Chick adventure. We will all definitely rebook with you again!!!

Gayle M.

I just took an amazing trip to Zion and Bryce National Parks with Explorer Chick! Everything about this trip was top notch. Everything was well planned and coordinated. Our FANTASTIC guides, Lauren and Christina, were very experienced and knowledgable about every thing we did/saw/experienced. They kept us well fed, hydrated, cared for during then entire adventure. We hiked and rappelled through some breathtaking scenery and glamped in tents that literally had all the comforts of home. Several of us were solo travelers. The entire vibe of the group was welcoming and supportive. I highly recommend this company to any woman looking try out an adventurous vacation.

Jennifer M.

Wonderful Explorer Chick hiking/glamping trip with my sister in Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park! Our guides - Lauren and Christina - were fantastic, the weather was glorious, and the landscape was stunning. We hiked through rivers and up mountainsides and rappelled down a few. Already looking forward to our next adventure!

Michelle W.

Two absolutely amazing guides, Lauren and Christina, took us on our adventure to Zion and Bryce. Our group was pampered with snacks galore, Trader Joe’s-inspired lunches, and glamping accommodations we all appreciated. Lauren and Christina were not only knowledgeable about the areas we visited, but they also intentionally curated a trip that built camaraderie and honored each of our skill levels.

Several of the women in our group, including me, were first-time Explorer Chicks travelers. This trip was a reminder of how important it is to invest in myself and build connections with women who share the same love for nature and adventure.

I had been following Explorer Chick for several years before finally booking a trip, and I couldn’t be happier that I chose Zion/Bryce as my first experience. I already can’t wait to book my next adventure!

Marni N.

I recently attended the Red River Gorge backpacking workshop, and I can't say enough great things about it! Our guide, Janie, was friendly, funny, knowledgable, and patient. The equipment was perfect. I am so excited to take more trips with Explorer Chick!

Suzanne B.

Amazing experience! Highly recommend! I went to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon with Kirstie and Lauren and it was absolutely unforgettable.

Leiko F.

Just returned from an amazing 4-day hiking trip in Zion & Bryce National Parks in Utah. Explorer Chick made it all seem effortless; they took care of EVERYTHING....imagine not having to decide what to cook, shop, prepare, clean up - that, to me was heaven!!

I can't say enough about our guides; Kirstie & Lauren were Fabulous!! They provided suggestions on what to pack & how to layer for the days weather & planned activity . Not only were they informative about the area but they were super supportive, both mentally & physically - whether you needed encouragement to conquer that last mile or confidence to handle the heights both guides had your back every time.

The accommodations were fun & comfortable, meals & snacks were abundant & delicious and they took into consideration dietary needs if necessary. They also took all the photos so you could stash your phone & just enjoy every moment without missing anything.

Our group had so much fun sharing stories, laughing & singing - my only regret was not booking a trip sooner and now all I can think about is when and where to go next?!?!

If you're looking at this group just book it, you won't regret it!

Sue F.

I just returned from the Bryce and Zion trip. I can't say enough about every facet of the trip. The food, the schedule, the lodging accommodations, the support, the people and the information we learned-- all 5 star! Our guides Kirstie and Lauren took care of every detail, even the ones that came up last minute. Their caring, humor and compassion for every member of the group was unparalleled. I have an extreme fear of heights and they supported me while I canyoneered and walked through some very narrow paths with little to no guard rails. I came home energized, empowered, and ready to take another Explorer chicks adventure!

Jennifer R.

What a fantastic trip! Our guides Mary and Christina were absolutely wonderful. Mary’s knowledge of geology and Christina’s knowledge of flora and fauna really added to the experience. They were both so supportive and encouraging. The lodging and food was great, safety was a priority and so many snacks!

Vanessa G.

Just got back from Zion & Bryce Canyon. Kirstie & Lauren were our guides for the weekend and they delivered the most epic experience ever. They thought of everything for us-it was so nice to not have to worry about anything. They fed us and provided snacks and told us what we should be wearing for our days adventures. It was also nice to hear the history of where we were about to hike and explore. They were so patient and kind and will stay right by your side to get you up that hill or help you repel down that wall. They also take tons of pictures so that you truly can be in the moment and not have to worry about reaching for your phone to capture the moment. I will be booking another trip with them! Best experience ever!

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.

Red River Gorge Kentucky Backpacking EC Trip was such an AWESOME learning experience. Our guides Ashley and Amy were such incredible leaders and sources of endless information. They answered EVERY question (& I had tons!) and taught us how to pack our backpacks, filter water, cook and set up our tents at the backcountry campsite and gave me so much more confidence that I could tackle it again!! Hansen's Point sunset hike was definitely a highlight for me. I highly recommend Explorer Chicks!!

Shannon C.

This trip was amazing. Truly life changing and my explorer chick guides Christina and Mary were the best. This trip exceeded my expectations. The beautiful scenery of Zion and Bryce Canyon was magical. Both guides were there for my struggles, successes, tears and pure joy of this trip. From making sure my dietary needs were met, to taking pictures, helping with poles, bags, what to pack each day abled me to truly let go with the explorer chicks in charge and having everything taken care of.

She broke her leg months before this trip... 🏔️

April just proved that age (and a little titanium) can’t stop a determined Explorer Chick.

After breaking her leg in two places, she worked her way to Machu Picchu through 4-day on the Inca Trail and says there’s now “nothing she can’t overcome”.

April, you are an absolute legend.

Drop a ❤️ below to show April some love for crushing the Inca Trail!

#ECinherwords #incatrail #grouptravel #womenwhotravel #womenstravel

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She broke her leg months before this trip... 🏔️

April just proved that age (and a little titanium) can’t stop a determined Explorer Chick.

After breaking her leg in two places, she worked her way to Machu Picchu through 4-day on the Inca Trail and says there’s now “nothing she can’t overcome”.

April, you are an absolute legend.

Drop a ❤️ below to show April some love for crushing the Inca Trail!

#ECinherwords #incatrail #grouptravel #womenwhotravel #womenstravel

They came to Zion for a hiking trip…

A few days later they were canyoneering, laughing nonstop, and leaving with new friends.
Somewhere in there… a few bucket-list items got checked off too. 💗

That’s kind of how these trips go.

You show up a little nervous… and leave feeling like you can do anything.

Send this to the friend you’d bring with you on an Explorer Chick Trip! 🥾👯‍♀️

#explorerchickzion #zionnationalpark #adventuretravel #solofemaletraveler #grouptravelforwomen #ecinherwords

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They came to Zion for a hiking trip…

A few days later they were canyoneering, laughing nonstop, and leaving with new friends.
Somewhere in there… a few bucket-list items got checked off too. 💗

That’s kind of how these trips go.

You show up a little nervous… and leave feeling like you can do anything.

Send this to the friend you’d bring with you on an Explorer Chick Trip! 🥾👯‍♀️

#explorerchickzion #zionnationalpark #adventuretravel #solofemaletraveler #grouptravelforwomen #ecinherwords

Jenny and Kim have been best friends for 38 years, and they’ve officially reached the “we talk over each other” stage of the relationship. After surviving the Galapagos, Jenny “push-pulled” Kim into round two in Belize.🇧🇿

From finally mastering the paddleboard with an instructor to spotting rays, sharks, and giant starfish, they proved that even after four decades, you can still find “joy and wonder” in things you’ve never done before.

Are you the “Jenny” (the pusher) or the “Kim” (the reluctant adventurer)? Tag your travel partner below! 👇

Jenny and Kim, thank you so much for trusting us with your friendship and your travel moments! We can’t wait to see where you travel with us next. 💕

#travelbestie #travelbff #friendship #womenwhotravel #adventuretravel #ecinherwords

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