Just got back from the Shenandoah National Park trip. Our guides, Heather and Kaylin were fantastic. We had a small group which was great for bonding on the rough trails. The hikes were challenging but we were not pushed to go faster than we were able, although, our group was pretty awesome on speed up and down the trails. The sunset hikes were epic. They are optional but I highly encourage everyone to challenge yourself if you are unsure of hiking with a headlamp. The trip was well planned. Everything was as described in the itinerary. I'll be looking for another trip to take with EC. read more

I had an amazing time on my EC trip and booked the next one almost immediately! I'm a borderline obsessive travel planner, and I was super impressed with their attention to detail and fun touches. It was SO nice to let someone else do all the planning for me and just show up to have fun! Our guides were fun, knowledgeable and had great energy. Food was tasty, tons of snacks, and our guides seamlessly pivoted when a few travelers needed to scale back on the last day. My fellow travelers were awesome and encouraging, and we all pushed each other to step out of comfort zones in the best way. I'm super confused at some of the negative remarks here. The no exceptions cancellation policy is presented multiple times VERY clearly- that's what travel insurance is for. This is busy adventure travel- if you want unstructured time or ultra luxe accommodation, this probably isn't right for you. If you aren't committed to engaging socially with a group, you won't have fun. read more

From the date I placed a deposit to follow up after the trip the professionalism and communication was outstanding. The trip we took hiking in Northern Italy was so so so well run and our guide Kerstie Mullikin was superb. We even stayed at a luxury spa hotel in the mountains for two nights. Everything was so well organized and every detail done beautifully. read more

BEWARE!!! I'm sooo disappointed. Be really careful!! I paid so much money for an overnight hike in Red River Gorge this weekend. Weeks in advance I found out there was a surprise unchangeable conflict for 1 week only. Not only would they give no refund but wouldn't let me even switch dates, this trip runs every week all summer!!! Really crappy!!!! read more

I would NOT and DO NOT recommend this company! I was registered for a trip out of Las Vegas in September, 2024. I received a call my business partner was unexpectedly put on hospice. The services occurred during the trip and I had no option but to cancel my trip. I had read the cancellation clause and understand I could not get a refund on my $2,000. HOWEVER, I was hopeful that the Explorer Chick Adventure staff would work with me and show compassion and understanding to my situation. I had lost my Mom 2 months before as well. When I asked if I could apply my $2,000 to a future trip with them, I was met with a curt, Oh, sorry for your loss, but we have incurred expenses holding your spot for this trip and that isn't possible. I can't explain how hurtful and disappointed that was, ESPECIALLY coming from an all female focused organization who CLAIMS to be all about supporting and empowering woman. I did not feel supported or empowered through this interaction with Explorer Chicks. BOO! Very Disappointing. Meredith read more

I felt compelled to write a review after reading the neggies.... 2 things: One I am glad I never bothered to read the negative Yelp reviews. Two, my recent trip was the epitome of absolute perfection. What can I say? Where do I start? This trip to Moab was absolutely amazing. I was not sure what exactly to expect but our two guides, Savannah and Lindsey, superseded expectations beyond my imagination. It seemed like the entire trip, I was being catered to, from the beautiful condo we stayed at, to the deliciously healthy meals they prepared down to the plethora of snack options they had for the group. All we had to do is wake up, get ready and the entire day was thoughtfully planned and arranged for us. I have a gluten allergy also and our guides made certain that part was taken care of, without issue (Thanks a million) because that meant a lot to me. I went alone but met some wonderful women and left with some likeminded new friends. What an amazing experience, Savannah and Lindsey were the perfect blend of adventure, hospitality, experience, consideration and humor. I wasn't sure if I would like Explorer Chicks....now I am convinced this is the type of tribe I belong with. Looking forward to another adventure with Explorer Chicks, thank you for such a memorable and absolutely perfect adventure! Moab UT 3/31/22 read more

Very disappointed in customer service and safety. Felt very ignored by the owner Nikki when I expressed my concerns.

It's a great concept and good people, however they take unnecessary risks with safety. On my recent trip to Jordan, there was a heat wave and each day was mid to upper 90's with no access to water (aside from what we could carry) or shade. I have always been taught that when doing active outdoor activities in the heat, you should start early and end early. The guides did not adjust the start time on the trail to dawn. We started each day around 9 and ended around 4-5pm. In addition to that, half the group was suffering with travelers diarrhea, and were therefore starting dehydrated. There was no discussion or even mention of heat related illness. It seems the safety of their adventurers is not a priority. read more

This is an adventure travel company if you are not used to being pushed out of your comfort zone this isn't for you. I think that if you are an open-minded woman with a love of seeing new places you should use this company. Life isn't perfect, the weather can't be controlled but you might be great rewarded with wonderful company and great new friends. I just came back from a trip in Belize, and I'll tell you it was a little different than I thought. No air conditioning for several days but I didn't think too much about it because I was having the time of my life snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding and going fishing. If you want to take a risk than you will be rewarded with a different kind of opportunity. I'll be cheering for you hope to see on the trail or in the sea soon. xoxo Explorer Chick Samantha -- You can do anything! -- Lastly, I LOVE MY GUIDE KIRSTIE!!! ((heart)) read more

Amazing trip to DR! I am klutzy but EC taught me how to surf, trust your gut, and take me past my limits with hiking. I couldn't believe it! The confidence and friendships I made at the end of the trip will last a lifetime. Thank you ladies for such a wonderful time To the negative review below I read: The eco hotel was awesome. It's definitely not built for you to lounge in your room, but grounds and location is perfect and safe. We did the canyoning/cliff jumping trip (which was Amazing) and during it we had a heavy DR rain shower. The trip was not canceled and they stated they went rain or shine. Seriously don't let the negative reviews sway you especially the ones who haven't even been on a trip. Ask your questions in the explorer chick community on Facebook. Best place to learn what trip is best for you! read more

Loved every minute of my West Virginia Wild Weekend - The activities, the women, the food- everything was amazing. I learned so much and met interesting people. Already planning my next adventure. read more

The West Virginia Wild Weekend was my first and last trip with Explorer Chick. We signed up for several optional adventures - kayaking, rock climbing and the bridge walk. Not one person from the EC staff was on any of these with our group. We were essentially left on our own and in the hands of the Ace Adventure Resort (whose staff was amazing). So when kayaking ran way over time and we missed the dinner/keynote speaker, no one from EC had any idea or concern about it. Kayaking was also with other random people and families from the Ace Adventure Resort. Also, one busload of women broke down on the way to whitewater rafting, EC had no idea. Nikki, the owner, came across as totally unprofessional and tacky. If you're into flashing your breasts and mooning people, this might be your trip. I don't think this was a typical destination trip, but it felt like we were outsiders on their staff retreat. It's really disappointing because the other trips look interesting but I'm so turned off by the owner that I can't support EC when there are so many other women's only travel groups out there. read more

Everything about the Moab weekend was amazing - the company, the food prepared by the guides, the hiking (challenging but rewarding), and the condo (cozy and fully stocked). I didn't want to go back home! And I want to bring more friends on more Explorer Chick trips! read more

Haven't even been on the trip yet and I already regret booking. When they say it's your trip and they'll work with you to make additional adventures happen, they don't mean that. What you see is what you get. Absolutely nothing more. If I'd understood that before booking, I wouldn't be so disappointed in them. read more

I opted to write a review here after being surprised by the negativity that previous patrons left on Yelp. The reviews made me so sad that individuals wouldn't see the best in this amazing company that is intended for outdoor women travel. Explorer Chicks is an "adventure" company. No need to sign up for their trips if that is not what you are looking for. Read on if you'd like to hear my experience with Explorer Chicks ("ECs"). A group of 9 ECs embarked on their 4 Day Moab Hiking Adventure led by guides Katie and Becca. They were incredibly kind and ready to explore!! In addition to working with a variety of hiking levels (not everyone is a triathlete on the trip), they encouraged everyone to get something out of this experience. This included working with someone who had some unique needs and readjusted their schedule to accommodate, ensuring everyone was getting their money's worth and not being held back. Thank you for recognizing it! The adventure started with a hike through Arches National Park on Day 1. It is by far one of the busiest parks in Utah and EC planned accordingly so you wouldn't be hiking all over everyone to get that true 'Explorer' Experience. You will definitely see people here but ECs excels at finding ways to provide a unique experience. If you are looking for a traditional tourist experience, this trip is far from it. Katie and Becca were downright hilarious ALL the time but quick to prep everyone with snacks, WATER and when and where to go when nature called. Absolutely loved our guides and their positive energy. After a 'starter' hike on Day 1, they set up some ground rules by asking everyone what they would expect from everyone on the trip. Way to empower everyone to adventure up and hold everyone accountable :) I appreciated that our guides went around the table making sure every person had a voice at the table. This review could share more details on this incredible trip, but I'm stopping there as part of the fun with ECs are the unique locations they take you on and feeling the sense of adventure with like-minded (and adaptable) women. If you want more details, feel free to email them directly. They are approachable and want repeat business, so its in their best interest to continue to provide a good experience and be honest about what to expect. I would absolutely go on one of their adventures again! Thank you ECs!!! Big shout out to Katie and Becca! You truly went above and beyond to make sure this experience gave everyone an opportunity to EXPLORE. Cheers!!! read more

WOW! Nicki is amazing! The Dominican trip has been superb! Adventure everyday with some down time to do as you please. Everything has been arranged for us and Nicki has been super accommodating if/when we wanted to change our schedules. Her energy is always positive and encouraging. We had our itinerary prior to the trip to help us plan and pack. There was a list of additional activities listed and when I asked about Scuba diving which was not included, Nicki still took it upon herself to set it up for me. She put together a wonderful group of ladies and works to make sure everyone is having a great time and being included. The hotel in the DR is definitely an eco hotel. Bare bones but clean and friendly. The restaurant on site is delicious! I haven't had a bad meal yet. Everything has been wonderful, I'll definitely be taking another explorer chick trip! read more

The backpacking trip was a disaster for reasons both in and out of Explorer Chick's control. However, the icing on the cake was after I sent a detailed email to the company noting my concerns and proving constructive criticism, not only did the company not address my concerns, they personally attacked me, told me I was the problem, and said "maybe group travel isn't for you." I've travelled with groups all over the world and never had an experience that came as close to how bad this one was. If the company responds to this review, I won't be surprised if they call out my "negative energy" similar to the review below. That seems to be their MO when someone complains. read more

Dominican Republic Trip a complete disaster. ZERO stars. So bad that when we reported to our credit card companies the awful service and misrepresentation, they refunded our money. Sign up at your own risk!!! Nicki, the Owner may have some knowledge of domestic backpacking adventures, but she is completely incompetent as a tour operator in the Dominican Republic. She was unprepared, unreliable, unconcerned with client satisfaction and safety, and unprofessional. The "eco-lodge" is a dump, an example of the "farm to table food" consisted of hummus and roasted vegetables for dinner. All food was sparse and inconsistent and service in restaurant and hotel abominable, we even had to empty our own garbage, which was our dirty toilet paper that couldn't be flushed. Nicki did not even have cell phone service in the Dominican to communicate with clients (she said that would cost her too much money), suppliers and handle emergencies or contingency plans, which she had none. She was not knowledgeable about the country, area, or even adventure activities she took clients on. (she did not know the raft trip was class 4 or that canyonning will be cancelled with excessive rainfall.) When we expressed dissatisfaction with the trip, rather than attempt to improve her services she called us bitches......completely unprofessional. I could go on and on about the deficiencies (we provided four pages of examples of the incompetency to our credit card company). Again, really do not take this trip with Explorer Chicks. read more

Explorer Chick cultivates an amazing group of women and guides. The Red River Gorge trip was fantastic and so informative. I feel much more confident overnight backpacking, and I cannot recommend EC highly enough. None of our group knew each other beforehand, but we walked away sharing stories, laughs, and adventure. This is not a group for individuals who are high drama complainers. I highly suggest women who are adventurous, want a challenge, strive for experiences that are not cookie cutter, and those with positive attitudes to trip out mini-adventure or bucket list trips! read more