The Surge of Women-Only Travel Groups

Traveling solo does not mean you have to travel alone. Right now, solo female travelers are flocking to organized women-only tours in record numbers. Whether you want to hike the Andes or explore the vibrant markets of Morocco, booking with a specialized company offers safety, instant friendships, and unforgettable experiences.

Why Women Are Choosing Specialized Group Tours

The travel industry has seen a massive shift over the last five years. Women are booking flights and packing their bags at unprecedented rates. However, many are choosing to bypass the traditional mixed-group tours in favor of women-only departures.

Safety is a primary motivation. Traveling to certain destinations like Egypt, India, or Jordan can be intimidating for a solo female traveler. A group environment provides peace of mind. You have a dedicated guide, pre-arranged transportation, and a network of peers looking out for you.

Beyond safety, these trips offer deep cultural access. In conservative countries, mixed-gender groups are often restricted from entering female-only spaces. Women-only tours, led by local female guides, can visit local homes, women’s cooperatives, and female-run businesses. This creates a more authentic and educational travel experience. Finally, the social aspect is a massive draw. Many travelers report leaving these trips with lifelong friends who share their passion for exploration.

Top Tour Companies for Women-Only Travel

If you are ready to book a trip, you need to know which companies provide the best experiences. Several brands have emerged as leaders in this space, each catering to a different travel style.

Intrepid Travel: Women’s Expeditions

Intrepid Travel launched its Women’s Expeditions in 2018, and these tours quickly became some of their fastest-selling itineraries. Intrepid focuses on destinations where women have traditionally faced cultural barriers. Their tours are entirely led by local female guides.

You can book a 12-day trip to Morocco, an 8-day journey through Jordan, or a 15-day adventure in Pakistan. On the Morocco trip, travelers visit a local family home in the Dades Valley and enjoy a home-cooked meal prepared by the women of the house. Groups are small, usually capped at 12 people. Prices typically range from $1,200 to $3,500 depending on the destination and length of the trip.

Wild Women Expeditions

For the active traveler, Wild Women Expeditions is an excellent choice. Founded in 1991, this company focuses heavily on outdoor adventure and female empowerment. They offer trips to over 30 countries.

If you want an active vacation, you can go horseback riding in Mongolia, sail the coast of Croatia, or hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. They also offer kayaking trips in Baja California. Wild Women Expeditions caters to a wide age range, but you will find many women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s on these trips. Expect to pay between $3,000 and $6,000 for most international adventures.

Damesly

Damesly is a boutique tour operator created by travel expert Kelly Lewis. This company focuses on creative, professional women who want a mix of adventure and skill-building.

Damesly tours often include a professional development or creative component. For example, their “Cameras and Canyons” tour in Arizona includes photography workshops. They also offer stunning international itineraries to Iceland and Argentina. Damesly trips are highly curated, featuring boutique hotel stays and excellent local dining. These tours usually cost between $2,500 and $4,500.

Insight Vacations: Wander Women Tours

If you prefer luxury and comfort, traditional tour operators are also stepping up. Insight Vacations offers a premium travel style with their “Wander Women” series.

These trips are designed by women, for women. They feature upgraded accommodations, premium dining experiences, and relaxed pacing. You might spend a week exploring the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia or touring the highlights of Italy. Insight Vacations focuses on comfortable coaches with extra legroom and highly experienced travel directors. These luxury trips start around $3,500 and can go upwards of $5,000.

How to Choose the Right Group for You

With so many options available, picking the right tour requires a bit of research. You should evaluate three main factors before putting down a deposit.

First, check the activity level. Every tour company provides a physical rating for their trips. A culinary tour of Tuscany with Insight Vacations will require far less physical stamina than a trekking expedition in Patagonia with Wild Women Expeditions. Be honest with yourself about your fitness level.

Second, consider the group size. Small groups of 8 to 12 women offer a more intimate experience and the ability to stay in smaller, boutique hotels. Larger groups of 20 to 30 women might travel on full-sized buses but often come with a slightly lower price tag.

Third, look at the rooming policies. Most tour companies base their pricing on double occupancy. If you are traveling solo, they will pair you with another solo female traveler to share a room. If you want your own private room, you will need to pay a “single supplement” fee. This fee can range from $300 to over $1,000 depending on the luxury level of the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be traveling solo to join a women-only tour?

No. While these tours are incredibly popular with solo travelers, many women join with friends, sisters, or their mothers. The groups usually end up being a mix of solo travelers and small pairs.

Are flights included in the tour price?

Generally, no. Tour companies like Intrepid, Damesly, and Wild Women Expeditions price their tours based on land arrangements only. You are responsible for booking your own flights to the starting city. They will, however, usually arrange your airport transfer upon arrival.

What is the average age of women on these tours?

The age range is very broad. You will find women in their 20s all the way up to their 70s. However, the largest demographic on most of these premium group tours tends to be women between the ages of 35 and 65. If you want to know the specific demographic of a trip you are eyeing, you can always call the tour company and ask for the average age of the current passenger list.