Women's adventure travel is booming, and if you've been wondering how to start, what a group trip is really like, or whether it's for you, this guide is for you. Let's be real: taking that first trip can feel big. It's also one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do.
We've led women through Peru, Morocco, Guatemala, Tunisia, Tanzania, and more, so below you'll find honest answers to the questions women ask most before a first group trip, along with what our travelers say once they've been.
What Is Women's Adventure Travel?
Women's adventure travel is travel designed around what women want from a journey: real experiences, a bit of challenge, cultural connection, and a community that has your back. It usually means hiking, trekking, wildlife, local food, and time with local people, not just sightseeing from a bus window.
It isn't a softer version of regular adventure travel. It's a different way of traveling where support and community matter as much as the destination.
And you don't have to be an athlete. You just have to be curious and ready to say yes.
Why More Women Are Choosing Adventure Travel
If you feel a pull toward this kind of trip, you're far from alone. Women are estimated to make up more than half of all bookings with adventure travel companies, according to data from the Adventure Travel Trade Association. And between 2016 and 2023, Google searches for "solo female travel" grew by 230%.
I see the reasons every time I meet a new group. Women are tired of waiting for the perfect timing, the perfect body, or for the kids to be older. They want life-changing experiences without spending weeks stressing over logistics. They want to show up, feel supported, and be inspired.
Women travel for many reasons, but one thing I hear again and again is: I didn't want to wait any longer.
What a Women's Group Adventure Is Really Like
This is the part most people wonder about but don't ask, so let me answer it.
Most of our travelers come solo. The majority of women who join Trekking Pals arrive without knowing anyone, and leave with new friends. If you're nervous about traveling with strangers, you're in very good company.
Our groups are small and intimate. This isn't a big-bus, cookie-cutter tour. Small groups mean real conversations, more flexibility, and a trip leader who knows your name by day one.
Our travelers range widely. Most are between 25 and 60, but all ages are welcome. We have first-time group travelers and seasoned adventurers on the same trip, and everyone finds their pace.
Rooming is simple. Prices are based on double occupancy, so we'll pair you with a roommate. If you'd rather have your own space, private accommodation is available on most trips for an additional fee.
Here's how one traveler, Lakshmi, described it: a group of fierce and nurturing women who started as strangers but soon became cheerleaders. You can read more in our traveler testimonials.
The first night sets the tone. Our trips begin with a welcome dinner, where great food, laughter, and new friendships await. Trang, who joined for a first-ever group trip, put it simply: "I'm so happy I decided to go with Trekking Pals for my first group trip."
The Real Benefits of Traveling With Other Women
Confidence that lasts. Climbing one more step, crossing a desert, or trying something that scared you shows you what you're capable of. That feeling comes home with you.
Genuine sisterhood. Shared challenges build friendships fast. Many of our travelers book their next trip together, and some come back again and again.
Feeling safe and cared for. Traveling with a group and an experienced leader takes a lot of the worry out of it. Bal, one of our travelers, said: "I felt safe and cared for every step of the way." That's exactly what we want for every woman on our trips.
Cultural connection. We believe the best travel connects you to local people, not just landmarks. Our trips are built around local guides, local communities, and the stories behind a place.
A reset. Time outdoors, away from your inbox and your to-do list, is good for the body and the mind.
How to Choose Your First Women's Adventure
With so many options, here's what I'd look at before booking anything.
Group size. Smaller groups mean more connection and flexibility.
Activity level. Be honest with yourself. Check the daily hiking distances and elevation, and ask the trip leader if you're unsure.
What's included. Look at accommodation, meals, guides, transportation, and park permits. Also check what isn't included, like flights, insurance, tips, and some meals.
Who's leading. Do they know the destination? Will there be local guides?
Policies. Read the cancellation and deposit terms carefully. Our deposits are non-refundable, and I always recommend travel insurance that covers cancellations.
Women-only or mixed. Decide what feels right for you. If you want a women-only experience, make sure the trip is clearly designed that way.
Community. Does the company help you feel part of something before and after the trip?
Where to Go: Destinations for Women's Adventure Travel
Here are some of the places we've led women through, and why they're great starting points.
Peru. Machu Picchu and the Andes are iconic for a reason. Mountain views, ancient history, and the thrill of reaching somewhere you've dreamed about for years.
Morocco. Think imperial cities, bustling souks, the Sahara, and the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. Our groups have posed together on the colorful painted steps of Chefchaouen.
Guatemala. Volcanic landscapes, colorful markets, and Mayan history. A beautiful destination for travelers who want adventure and culture in one trip.
Tunisia. Off the beaten path, from desert landscapes to the sea. Perfect if you want somewhere few travelers have discovered. Our Tunisia trip is women-only.
Tanzania. Safari plains and big-sky wilderness, an unforgettable trip for lovers of wildlife and wide open spaces.
Bali and Costa Rica. Volcanoes, hot springs, jungle, and island time. These are great if you want adventure with a bit of tropical relaxation.
See what's coming next on our Upcoming Adventures page.
Staying Safe as a Woman Traveling
Safety is the number one concern I hear, and it's a fair one. Here's what I'd tell a friend:
Research before you go. Learn about local customs and what to wear, and read recent traveler experiences.
Share your plans. Leave your itinerary and accommodation details with someone you trust.
Trust your gut. If a situation feels off, leave. You never owe anyone politeness at the cost of your comfort.
Arrive in daylight when you can, and plan how you'll get from the airport to your hotel.
Get travel insurance. Make sure it covers medical care and cancellations.
Travel with people who know the place. Local guides and an experienced trip leader make a huge difference.
Stay informed. Conditions change, so check current travel advisories before you go.
"But What If..." Answering Common Fears
"What if I'm not fit enough?" Adventure doesn't mean racing. Groups move together, and there's room for different paces. Tell us about your concerns, and we'll help you prepare.
"What if I don't know anyone?" Almost everyone doesn't. That's the point.
"What if I've never done a group trip?" Then you're exactly who I wrote our free guide for: 10 hacks to know before you travel with strangers.
Many of our travelers felt exactly that way before their first trip. Amardeep has since joined us on three trips and says every one exceeded expectations.
"What if I'm too old, or too busy?" Our travelers are busy moms, leaders, and professionals, and many started in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. The perfect time doesn't come. You make it.
FAQ
What is women's adventure travel? Travel designed for women that combines outdoor activity, cultural experiences, and community, usually in small guided groups.
Is women's group travel safe? Traveling with an experienced leader, local guides, and a supportive group can make you feel much more secure, especially in unfamiliar places. No trip is risk-free, so do your research and buy insurance.
Can I join a women's adventure trip solo? Yes. Most of our travelers do. We'll pair you with a roommate unless you request a single room.
Do I need to be an experienced hiker? No. Check each trip's activity level and reach out with questions.
What's usually included? Typically accommodation, most meals, local guides, ground transportation, and park permits where needed. International flights, insurance, tips, and some meals are usually extra.
Your Adventure Is Waiting
At Trekking Pals, we believe adventure is one of the most powerful ways to remember how strong, capable, and supported you are. And the best part is, you don't have to do it alone.
If something in this guide made your heart skip, listen to it.
Start here: Browse our upcoming adventures
Feeling nervous? Grab the free guide: 10 hacks for traveling with a group
Traveling with friends? Ask about a private group trip
Questions? Contact us. I'd love to hear from you.
