New Women’s Expeditions aim to support female-led tourism and offer deeper cultural connection. Robbie Hodges reports

Intrepid Travel has launched three new Women’s Expeditions in Peru, Cambodia and Bhutan, as part of its growing portfolio of women-only trips. The new itineraries range from eight to 11 days and are led by local female guides, with a focus on supporting women in tourism and creating more inclusive travel experiences.

Each trip includes activities designed and run by women, offering travellers direct insight into local communities. In Peru, the eight-day itinerary features hikes through the Sacred Valley, including the lesser-known Chinchero to Urquillos route, guided by an all-female trekking team. Travellers also meet women entrepreneurs at local markets, take part in a traditional Andean healing ceremony led by a female shaman, and join a textile workshop with the Ocotuan community.

In Cambodia, the eight-day trip includes a street food tour in Siem Reap with TukTuk Srey, a business that employs only female drivers. Travellers also visit organisations such as Daughters of Cambodia, which supports survivors of human trafficking, and spend time with the Cambodia Rural Students Trust, which focuses on girls’ education. A homestay in Sambor Prei Kuk offers a closer look at rural life.

The Bhutan itinerary spans 11 days and combines hiking with cultural experiences. Travellers trek through the Himalayas with an all-female crew, including routes to Tiger’s Nest monastery and the Wangditse trail. The trip also includes visits to women-run businesses such as Tshering Farmhouse, where guests can learn to make ara, a traditional spirit, and take part in a herbal hot stone bath. Other experiences include meeting nuns at Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and visiting the Yathra weaving centre.

The launch reflects growing demand for travel experiences that prioritise connection and purpose. According to Intrepid, women now account for more than half of its customers, with 77% of travellers on Women’s Expeditions joining solo. The range grew by 32% in 2025, highlighting increasing interest in trips designed specifically for women.

Erika Kritikides, general manager of experiences at Intrepid Travel, says: “As we continue to evolve our Women’s Expeditions range, we’re prioritising destinations where tourism can deliver meaningful positive impact, while offering unique, women-led experiences for our travellers.

Travel has the power to create positive change, and we recognise that when women are empowered, it creates a ripple effect within the community. These trips support women tourism entrepreneurs and help break down gender barriers in the industry - and as women step forward, they’re holding the door open for others to follow. We remain committed to working closely with our local teams to support these women and advance gender equality in tourism”.

With these additions, Intrepid’s Women’s Expeditions now include eight trips worldwide, alongside existing itineraries in destinations such as India, Morocco, Nepal and Turkey. The company says each trip is designed to support women in regions where opportunities in tourism are more limited. Women currently make up 36% of Intrepid’s trip leaders globally, with a target to reach 40% by 2030.

The new departures will begin in September 2026, with prices starting from £995 for Cambodia, £1,585 for Peru and £3,565 for Bhutan.