The world of travel has undergone a visible evolution, and at the forefront of this change are women who have broken barriers, shattered stereotypes and explored the farthest reaches of the globe. Among them is Kelly Kimple, CEO of Fort Collins, Colorado-based travel agency Adventures in Good Company (AGC). The business offers small group tours around the world for women with adventurous spirits.

“Our focus on female-forward experiences is important on many levels but mainly to inspire and empower women,” Kimple says. “By tailoring our experiences to women, we aim for all women to enjoy the benefits of outdoor exploration and the joys of adventure travel.”

Photos courtesy of Adventures in Good Company

Marian Marbury founded AGC in 1999 to take women off the beaten path to explore nature and build community along the way. As an avid nature enthusiast herself, Kimple acquired the company in 2018 to continue its mission of safely taking women on confidence-building adventures outside, no matter their skill level. “It is this type of travel that drew me to Adventures in Good Company and inspired me to take the leap into business ownership,” Kimple shares.

Because of AGC’s unique offerings — from kayaking in Greenland to “slackpacking” the Appalachian Trail — the trips boast a strong sense of community. Groups are capped at 12 travelers with at least two guides present. With over 100 trips offered annually, many travelers return year after year for their fifth or even 25th trip.

From the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Minnesota to the Kumano Kodō pilgrimage trail in Japan, AGC helps women travel safely and confidently on adventures that would be more difficult to arrange on their own. “This inclusivity encourages more women to travel and
participate in outdoor pursuits, which may otherwise feel intimidating or inaccessible,” Kimple explains.

One of the company’s most celebrated offerings is slackpacking, which describes a style of hiking in which you carry only what you need for the day and return to shelter at night in a nearby trail town. Each trip has an activity level rating, so no matter one’s ability, there’s
a trip for them.

“We choose where we go in the world with several priorities in mind, including destinations that offer connection to nature, allow us to support local businesses and communities, and that offer travelers a more meaningful, connected and sustainable experience,” Kimple says.

From hygiene to safety, female travelers have unique considerations when it comes to outdoor adventures and international travel. “We understand and address these needs in order for women to feel comfortable, cared for and well-prepared for the experience,” she says. “We employ female guides and work with other female-led businesses to provide role models and mentors for women looking to pursue careers in the industry. This representation is essential for inspiring the next generation of female adventurers and leaders.”

adventuresingoodcompany.com