FAQ

For over 30 years, we’ve been creating empowering, transformative experiences for women everywhere. Our community thrives on diversity, inclusion, and a deep sense of belonging. At Wild Women Expeditions, we embrace the extraordinary—crafting unique adventures that foster meaningful connections with local women across the globe. Every journey is mindfully curated to inspire and uplift.

Here, inclusivity is more than a value—it’s our way of life. Wild Women Expeditions revolves around inclusivity and diversity. We celebrate and encourage the participation of women (including trans women) of all ages, sexual orientation, size and ethnicity. You are welcome here.

Wild Women Expeditions’ adventures are for all women who love the outdoors, have an adventurous spirit and enjoy the company of other women. We come from a variety of cultures, backgrounds, lifestyles, life circumstances and ages. We believe that exploring our differences is as fascinating as discovering our similarities.

Our adventures are designed for women of all ages—from bold solo travellers to best friends exploring the world together. Whether you’re 35, 65, or anywhere in between (or beyond!), you’ll find your community here. Some of our land tours (intermediate to advanced hiking itineraries) typically attract women aged 36-55+, while our Small Ship Expeditions see a seasoned crowd, with most guests between 55-65+. But make no mistake—our community spans from 18 to 80 and beyond, proving that adventure has no age limit. We’re sure you’ll find the perfect fit. Ready to join us?

Due to liability and insurance requirements, the minimum age to join a Wild Women Expeditions trip solo is 18. However, girls aged 15–17 are welcome on our trips if accompanied by an adult/guardian.

No matter your skill or fitness level, we’ve got an adventure with your name on it!

Many of our trips offer flexible options so that you can choose your own pace. Want a shorter hike today or maybe a longer trek tomorrow? Prefer to spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool? It’s all up to you. We’ve also rated our trips—easy, moderate, intermediate, or advanced—so you’ll know exactly what to expect. You’ll find all the details under the “Is This Trip Right For Me?” section.

We believe that adventure is best shared in small, intimate groups. That’s why our trips typically bring together 6-16 women, depending on the destination and vibe.

On our small-ship expeditions, you’ll find up to 40 Wild Women on board a 198-passenger vessel (yes, there will be co-ed staff, crew, and other passengers). It’s the perfect blend of connection and exploration—whether you’re bonding with fellow adventurers or soaking up those solo moments of awe.

At Wild Women Expeditions, we aim to keep things simple when it comes to currency. Prices for our land-based adventures in Canada are listed in Canadian dollars. For international trips and small-ship expeditions, we use USD. This helps avoid any currency fluctuations and ensures consistency for all our guests—whether you’re from Canada, the U.S., or elsewhere around the globe. No surprises!

Wild Women Expeditions is proudly Canadian-owned and operated. For international trips and small-ship expeditions, we use USD to maintain consistency across regions. When booking from Canada, your payment will be converted to CAD at the current exchange rate. By booking with us, you’re supporting a Canadian, women-owned business that empowers women worldwide. So, while our international trips may be priced in USD, your payment stays here with us, fueling our amazing Canadian team and women-led businesses that we partner with worldwide.

We work with local tour leaders and guides who are knowledgeable about the destination and tour activities and who align with our ethos in travel, sustainability, and supporting local women. These women are experts in their field and fabulous at what they do. Your Wild Women Expeditions guide(s) will be there with you throughout the duration of your trip.

Physical Rating 

Each trip has been rated for its level of physical activity. The rating can be found on each trip’s overview page, and more information about what the trip entails can be found on the “Is This Trip Right For Me?” page.

Easy 
Some Physical Activity Included. Trips are the most leisurely, with an average of 1-4 hours of physical activity each day.

Easy–Moderate
Trips typically involve 3 to 5 hours of daily activity.

Moderate
Good level of fitness required. Trips are moderately challenging with an average of 4 to 6 hours of activity each day.

Moderate–Challenging
Be prepared for strenuous physical activity. Trips average 5 to 8 hours of physical activity most days, and trips in this category usually require pre-trip training, depending on your usual activity and fitness level.

Challenging
Serious fitness level required. Trips are the most physically challenging with approximately 5 to 10 hours of physical activity each day. These trips require a high degree of fitness and even if you exercise regularly, they typically will require more specific conditioning and a specialized training routine depending on the trip.

Riding Ability Rating

Each horseback riding trip has been rated for the level of riding ability you must have prior to joining the trip. You can find the rating on each trip’s overview page and more information about what the trip entails on the “Is this trip right for me?” page.

Riding Ability: Experienced Novice
Riding experience at walk and trot but not confident at canter.

Riding Ability: Experienced Novice–Intermediate
Comfortable at a walk and trot, gaining confidence at canter.

Riding Ability: Intermediate
Confident at walk, trot and canter on a forward horse, on open ground.

Riding Ability: Intermediate–Advanced
Confident at all paces, on a forward horse, but not necessarily comfortable jumping.

Riding Ability: Advanced
Confident at all paces, on a forward horse. Advanced rides may include long canters, gallops and small jumps.

Most countries and airlines recommend passports be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to your home country. Before you leave, check with your airline about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

You are responsible for your own visa requirements for your trip. It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. It is your responsibility to check with the country’s consulate and your country’s travel website for up-to-date information about international travel.

Yes!

Travel insurance covers you for the unexpected, and although it’s the type of purchase you hope you never have to use, if the unexpected arises, you will be glad to have it. Click here for more information.

Airfare is not included in our trip pricing.

Our guests come from every corner of the globe, and some might even be locals to the adventure itself, so it just doesn’t make sense to bundle in airfares. We keep it flexible, letting you choose how you want to get there—your adventure starts the moment you’re ready!

You can book your flights online through one of the many flight search engines available. If you would like assistance with your travel arrangements, we recommend connecting with a licensed travel agent of your choice, or contacting independent agents, Megan or Zale, with Now Boarding at wildwomen@nowboarding.travel.

Travel agents can quote and book flights and assist you with booking, pre- and post-trip accommodations. Most travel agents will charge a small fee for their services, and many women find this is acceptable for the peace of mind that working with an agent can provide.

Absolutely! Most women join our trips solo, ready for their own adventure. But we also welcome friends (some who’ve connected on past Wild Women trips!), sisters, couples, and even mother-daughter duos who book together. It’s all about community!

Our trip prices are based on twin share (that means just two fabulous women per room or tent), so if you’re flying solo, we’ll match you with another Wild Woman to share the space. It’s the perfect way to make a new friend or find your next travel buddy! Of course, if you’re travelling with someone, you can share your space together. Either way, it’s all about connection and adventure!

Want your own space? No problem! If you’d rather not share a room or tent, we offer a single upgrade option on most of our expeditions. Simply indicate your preference on the registration form, and once availability is confirmed, we’ll send you a quote.

Got questions or need more info? Reach out to us at support@wildwomenexpeditions.com—we’re here to help!

1. Health

You are responsible for checking with the country’s consulate and your country’s official travel website. Canadian travelers, you can visit here, and US-based travelers, here.
You will find current travel advice and advisories for travelling to your destination. We also encourage you to check with your doctor or local travel clinic about health and/or vaccine requirements for your destination.

2. Safety

Wild Women Expeditions organizes trips in remote natural environments. Unpredictable weather and other natural conditions can increase risk, including wildlife encounters. It’s critical that everyone obeys the rules and regulations imposed by the local guides and follows instructions. The decisions of Wild Women Expeditions’ local guides or other representatives will be final on all matters likely to affect the safety and well-being of the group.

We reserve the right to prohibit any traveller from continuing on a trip without a refund if it’s determined that the traveller’s actions pose a threat to the safety of others, wildlife or themselves. If the traveller’s actions and/or behaviours disrupt the trip’s enjoyment for others, they may also be asked to leave the trip without entitlement to a refund.

We offer trips for women of various fitness and skill levels. If you’re concerned about managing the physical demands of your adventure, look for the ‘Easy’ physical rating on our ‘Is This Trip Right For Me‘ section on the trip page for your adventure.

If you’re looking for a more physically demanding adventure, go for trips that are rated “challenging” or “advanced.” 

Whatever the trip rating, there will be a range of women of varying skill and fitness levels on the trip itself.  We encourage groups to work together to find the right pace for everyone. 

While you certainly don’t need to be an elite athlete to join our trips, it’s important to have the appropriate fitness level for the trip you choose. See “Is This Trip Right For Me?” for more information.

Many women find that booking a trip inspires and motivates them to get in shape. They may join a gym, start a daily walking routine, sign up for horseback riding lessons, or take online yoga classes. 

We’ve created some resources [HERE] to help you get started with your trip fitness journey, or to take your training to the next level. But don’t worry, our trips are not boot camps or competitions. We also take time to stop and absorb the wonders of life as we strive to create the perfect balance between getting somewhere and simply being somewhere.  

Join our Wild Women Facebook Community Group to meet other like-minded adventurers.

If you’re used to using hiking poles, we recommend that you bring your own. In some cases, poles are provided, but they may not be the style or size you’re used to. Check the “What’s included” tab on the “Trip details” tab to determine if hiking poles are included in your trip. 

Note that most airlines don’t allow hiking poles in carry-on luggage, even if they’re collapsible or foldable. Plan to pack your poles in your checked baggage, or check with your airline to see if they allow them in the cabin.

Use the pre-trip preparation checklist (see screenshot for directions) to make sure you cover all the practical details, like having a valid passport and checking if any visas are required for your destination(s).

Make your own list of personal items that you need to do before you go!

Make sure you’ve made an honest assessment of your skill and fitness levels—to yourself and on your Travel Details Form, which we will ask you to fill out three months before your departure. Take steps to physically prepare for your trip as necessary.

We have created a series of blogs all about ‘Getting Fit’ for your trip, which you can find HERE.

Make sure you respond promptly to any emails from Wild Women Expeditions with Action Required in the subject line and save the email that you’ll receive about 30 days before your departure that gives you all the last-minute details.

You can contact us anytime by email at support@wildwomenexpeditions.com and phone from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST at 1-888-993-1222.

Health & Fitness

Please be sure to provide complete, accurate and up-to-date information about your health and fitness level and keep us updated if there are changes. Wild Women Expeditions trips travel to remote areas with limited or no sophisticated medical facilities.

Although a medical emergency is extremely unlikely, should it arise, we need to be prepared with the necessary information to help you.

Important Note: If you choose not to disclose a condition, infirmity, injury or ailment herein and are subsequently deemed to be unfit for expedition travel due in whole or in part to such condition, infirmity, injury or ailment, Wild Women Expeditions guides and partners shall have the right to remove you from the trip with no refund or compensation payable. Any evacuation expenses incurred are payable by the evacuee via their Medical Travel Insurance or personal expense.

Getting Fit

You don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy your Wild Women trip, but being reasonably fit will allow you to get the most out of it. 

You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve with training before your trip and having our experienced guides at your side and a little camaraderie. You’ll definitely enjoy yourself far more if you do some preparation.

Wild Women Expeditions, our partners and guides, are committed to sustainable ecotourism and fostering a deeper appreciation of our natural world. We aim to leave the places we visit in a better state than when we arrived.

We support several wildlife and environmental conservation initiatives around the world such as the Jane Goodall Institute Canada, Pacific Wild, The Giant Tortoise Restoration Initiative (Galápagos) and 1% for the Planet.

Wild Women Expeditions abides by the 7 Leave No Trace Principles and all in-country National Park guidelines on all trips to help reduce the impact of travel to sensitive ecosystems.

The 7 LNT Principles are:
1. plan ahead and prepare
2. travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. dispose of waste properly
4. leave what you find
5. minimize campfire impacts
6. respect wildlife
7. be considerate of others

Wild Women Expeditions is committed to putting your safety and well-being at the forefront. We encourage the responsible use of alcohol when it is permitted. Factors such as location, accommodation types, local outfitter policies, activities and cultural traditions will determine when it is acceptable. For example, alcohol is tolerated on Wild Women Expeditions trips when we stay at fixed-roof accommodations or visit local restaurants and licensed establishments. (Please note that any back-country camping portion of a WWE itinerary will have a dry policy for everyone’s safety and security.)

If your guide thinks that you are not in the appropriate condition to undertake an activity due to intoxication for any reason, she has the right to decline your participation. The use of illegal substances is not permitted, and any use of these will result in the termination of your trip at your own expense, without refund. We want you to have an incredible adventure and appreciate your support in creating an inclusive and healthy group environment.

The most responsible traveler experiences the world with an open, accepting mind. You will encounter unexpected “differences” in hygiene, toilets, acceptable clothing, menus, tipping, handshakes, affection, animal husbandry, garbage disposal, the treatment of women, rituals, and prayer.

Be sensitive in your observations. Respect the natural environment, customs and legacy of a culture. Kindness is universal, and we all evolve by sharing traditions and stories.

At Wild Women Expeditions, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered. During our trips, we ask all participants to join the orientation discussion about photo and video permissions, so we can honor each individual’s comfort level. If someone prefers not to be photographed or recorded, we fully respect that choice.
The same applies to the locals we encounter—it’s important to always ask for permission before taking photos or videos. Your respect for others helps create a supportive and inclusive experience for everyone.

Our trips are in wild and beautiful places, which you may wish to document using photos or video, but let’s all please respect the technology-free, unplugged space that most of our trips provide. We are all on this trip to BE here.

We understand drone imagery is becoming very popular, and some group members may wish to bring their drones on the trip. Wild Women Expeditions doesn’t have a firm policy saying “no drones,” but we do feel it takes away from the ‘wildness’ of the trip location and can make group members feel uncomfortable; for these reasons, we ask you to consider not using a drone on your trip. Should you decide to bring a drone, you must advise the group and ensure members who opt out of photos are always notified when you will be flying and do so away from the group. You are responsible for checking the local regulations or laws around drone operations for the trip destination.

While tipping your Wild Women guide is not mandatory, it’s a way to express your appreciation for their integral role in experiencing a destination. The pandemic left a huge impact on the travel industry, and our guides and the communities that welcome us are eager to regain financial security again. 

Each country has its own expectations of acceptable tipping percentages. When possible, we ensure that tips (at restaurants and activities and/or for shuttle drivers) are included in the trip price.

We advise you to ask your Wild Women guide when and where you can access ATM machines if the group requires additional money for tipping at the trip’s end. You may choose to tip individually and privately or collect money in one envelope and present this to your guide on behalf of the group in gratitude for their leadership. Depending on the country, tips should be made in the local currency or US dollars (if widely accepted). 

For more information on tipping, click on the link in the ‘Know Before You Go’ section under the ‘Trip Details’ tab. See an example here. Within this document is a ‘Tipping’ section that outlines what is recommended unique to your destination. 

Please note: If there are two trip guides, you may choose to tip them individually or together. 

• You are not expected to tip your Wild Women Expeditions host for all ship trips, and it is not necessary.
• You can include a general staff tip on your credit card for all ship trips if you wish.
• For trips that involve set-up crews (for camping), porters (Peru, Everest) or a crew (sailing or small ship expeditions), your guide will advise on a suggested amount to tip that will be distributed among the staff.
• In most countries, it is customary to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff (especially if you are assisted with your luggage) as a quiet thank you. Some hotels have a tipping box in the lobby, where tips are shared equally with the staff.