Celebrating Canada: Canadian-Owned Companies For Women to Travel With

Featured image: See the Northern Lights in Whitehorse with a Canadian company / Photo provided by Mosaic Earth Travel

14 Canadian-based companies to travel with

by JourneyWoman Staff

As we celebrate Canada Day on July 1, there has never been a better time to support Canadian-owned and women-owned travel businesses. These businesses offer tours within Canada to Indigenous communities, small ship trips to the Arctic and soul-nourishing retreats in Canada’s wilderness. But these entrepreneurs also share their expertise outside of Canada too, with adventure, wellness journeys and longer trips to Bali, Indonesia, India and other regions of the world. As a Canadian company, JourneyWoman is proud to support Canadian businesses and travel to Canada, as told through the eyes of our Canadian writers. Make sure to visit our Guide to Canada when you’re planning any travel to our stunning, welcoming country. 

Travel tip: Make sure you are protected when you purchase a trip. In Ontario, look for a TICO-registered company. TICO stands for the Travel Industry Council of Ontario and is mandated by the Ontario government to regulate all travel agencies, websites, and tour operators in the province. TICO’s primary purpose is to protect consumers and administers a fund that provides reimbursement up to $5,000 per person if an agency or tour operator goes bankrupt or insolvent. We vet all of our partners to ensure they are members. You can search for an Ontario-based travel company here. 

Get stories just like this one delivered straight to your inbox. Join the newsletter here.

14 Canadian Tour Companies from our Women’s Travel Directory

1. Mosaic Earth Travel, Vancouver, B.C.

Mosaic Earth Travel was founded by sustainability expert Pam McGarel in 2020 and specializes in crafting immersive multi-day itineraries for destinations in rural and remote areas of Western Canada, with a focus on regenerative tourism.

“We create small-group adventures that connect travellers with nature and Indigenous cultures,” says McGarel. “As a female entrepreneur, I deeply value the power of community and connection with other women, and travel is one of the best ways to cultivate those communities.”

Our top pick: Yukon Aurora Adventure (December to March) Venture to the far north on this 4-night winter package, which includes guided Northern Lights viewing, half-day dogsledding with huskies tour, a city tour of Whitehorse, a visit to the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, and the Yukon Wildlife Preserve.

Learn more about Mosaic Earth Travel here. 

2. Grit & Grace Adventures, based in Toronto, Ontario

Founded by entrepreneur Penny Light, Grit & Grace focuses on culturally immersive experiences in extraordinary destinations: Morocco’s ancient medinas and vibrant souks. Thailand’s temples and shorelines. Botswana’s transformative bush. Bhutan’s rare and protected kingdom. Japan’s precision and beauty. The Galapagos and Ecuador’s magnificent natural world. Bali’s culture and ceremony. India’s ancient, overwhelming spirit. And Colombia, one of the world’s most underestimated destinations.

“I believe in the transformative power of travel with the kind of conviction that only comes from living it,” Light says. “When you step outside your familiar world and into something vastly different, three things happen simultaneously. You connect to a world that is bigger, more generous, and more extraordinary than your everyday life allows you to see. You connect to the women beside you in a way that only shared experience makes possible. And you reconnect to yourself, the version of you that exists beneath the roles, the obligations, and the noise. For women in midlife that triple connection is not a luxury. It is a necessity. Grit & Grace Adventures exists to make it possible.” 

Our top pick: India: A Pilgrimage to the Soul, February 2 – 20 , 2027, an invitation to explore the vibrant markets of Delhi, the sunrise reflections on the Ganges, and the soft, golden light of Jaipur.

Learn more about Grit & Grace here. 

3. Women Go Travel, based in Winnipeg, Manitoba

After a 25-year career as an Emergency Room physician, Dr. Angela Clark retired from medicine and changed direction to pursue her lifelong interest in travel, exploring over 58 countries across six continents. With over 10 years of experience hosting adventure tours for her ringette team, founding WGT was a natural progression to share her passion for travel with a broader audience. 

“For me, travel is more than just ticking off destinations on a list,” Clark says. “It’s about creating meaningful experiences that make a positive impact on myself and the places that I visit. Before each trip, I prioritise thorough research on my destination’s history, culture, food, and local customs. I approach each new destination with curiosity and a spirit of adventure, seeking genuine experiences to enrich my knowledge of different cultures and locations, all whilst endeavouring to travel ethically, sustainably, and responsibly.”

Our top pick: Discover the Azores: A Journey Through Volcanic Wonders and Atlantic Culture, June 2027: Explore dramatic volcanic craters, steaming fumaroles, and serene crater lakes that reveal the islands’ fiery origins. Wander through towns like Ponta Delgada, where traditional Portuguese charm blends with bustling markets and historic architecture.

Learn more about Women Go Travel here. 

Monastere des Augustines in Quebec, home to wellness and transformational travel retreats

Adivuvm hosts retreats at Le Monastere des Augustines in Quebec City / Photo provided by Le Monastere des Augustines

4. Advivum Journeys, based in Ottawa, Ontario

Advivum Journeys, created 20 years ago by transformational coach Tania Carriere, blends travel, coaching lasting personal transformation, and storytelling and theatre to support women in living their best selves. One of Advivum’s flagship experiences is “The Cherished Self” at  Le Monastère des Augustines, Québec City, Canada from  Sept 27-30, 2026. (Read our review of this retreat here.)

Midlife is the time to re-imagine, re-vitalize and celebrate,” says Carriere. “Retreats are a way to discover yourself and the world in the company of community that shares your sense of adventure and curiosity.”

Our top pick: In 2027, Advivum is traveling to Kent England to stay in the home that Jane Austen wrote Pride and Prejudice.

Learn more about Advivum Journeys here. 

woman guiding two people

Brenda Holder from Painted Warrior Retrreat near Calgary, Alberta / Photo by Travel Alberta and Brenda Holder

5. Wild Women Expeditions, based in Newfoundland, Canada

Since 1991, Wild Women Expeditions has been empowering women to travel, transform, and thrive with epic adventures and soul-stirring travel experiences. CEO Jennifer Haddow is focused on gender equality and supporting local women through employment, training and other opportunities.

“All of our trips support the empowerment of local female guides, porters and businesses wherever possible, and we’re particularly proud to create opportunities for women in countries where there have historically been many barriers to women in this, and other types of work,” Haddow says. “Wild Women supports local women where they have typically struggled to have equal rights in Peru, Egypt, Tanzania, Jordan, India and Nepal. We were one of the first to champion female guides and porters on the Inca Trail in Peru, and we have women guides in Morocco who were the first in their villages to become employed as a tour guide. We will continue to promote and empower women guides all around the world.”

Our top pick: We love Wild Women’s Women’s Wilderness Retreat, which offers transformative spiritual retreat designed by Indigenous guides Tracey Klettl and Brenda Holder. Held in July and August 2026 at Painted Warriors Ranch, this six-day retreat has a physical rating of ‘easy’ and is near Calgary in Alberta, Canada.

Learn more about Wild Women Expeditions here.

Stay connected here with an Airalo eSIM. Use code JOURNEY10 for 10% off.

sacred earth journeys greece

The Greek Islands / Photo provided by Sacred Earth Journeys 

6. Sacred Earth Journeys, based in Vancouver, B.C.

Sacred Earth Journeys is dedicated to providing a more meaningful and rewarding travel experience, specializing in sacred sites tours and spiritual travel. With journeys to Egypt, Peru, Mexico, India, Ireland, Italy, Greece, Morocco, these tours combine respect and reverence for ancient wisdom traditions with the joy of exploring some of the most beautiful landscapes in all the world, while forging lifelong friendships. Sacred Earth Journeys was the winner of the 2004 and 2005 Inspiration Entrepreneur of the Year Award in the Tourism Category, presented by the BC Urban Entrepreneurial Development Association.

Founder Helen Tomei says: “We work closely with our passionate tour leaders to create sacred travel programs that will further your own inner journey while guiding you through the mythic heart of each country we visit. Our itineraries are infused with personal contacts and resources that draw on our years of experience and local knowledge.” 

Our top pick: The Wisdom of The Odyssey: A Journey to Greece with Phil Cousineau, in September 2026, to visit the legendary sites of Homer’s greatest heroes, Odysseus and Penelope.

Learn more about Sacred Earth Journeys here. 

7. ROOT44 Culinary Journeys, based in Toronto, Ontario

Founded by culinary expert Wanda Srdoc, a 4th generation truffle specialist and dual Croatian-Canadian citizen, ROOT44 curates unforgettable experiential events and travel experiences that elevate your love for food, culture, and exploration.

Over the past decade, Srdoc has had the pleasure of curating private, all-inclusive, small-group tours throughout Croatia. These experiences offer an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the country’s most captivating places, vibrant people, and exquisite cuisine. A private truffle hunt stands out as a highlight, followed by a decadent tasting at the host’s family truffle estate in Istria.

“There’s an undeniable comfort, peace, and sense of community when women come together, creating effortless laughter, shared stories, and deep respect for our unique experiences,” Srdoc says. “There’s also a profound joy that arises when women allow themselves to embrace the present moment fully. For over five years, my mission in curating authentic, small-group culinary and cultural tours for women in Croatia has been to offer an environment where every woman feels welcomed as though she were part of my own family—a space that celebrates the art of being pampered and inspired every day.”

Our top pick: Authentic & Dreamy Island Exploring, Food & Wine, UNESCO Hertiage Adventure Must-Dos: Dubrovnik -Split to Šibenik:  Explore the Dalmatian Coast from the historic city of Split, Island of Hvar, Dubrovnik, Trogir, and Šibenik.

Learn more about Root44 here.

radwomen georgia and albania

Radwomen’s 12-day trip to Georgia and Albania includes Geghard Monastery in Armenia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its structures partially carved into the surrounding cliffs / Credit Radventures 

8. Radventures, based in Banff, Alberta

Founded in 2020 in Banff, Canada by world traveler Dale Schober, Radventures began by offering immersive experiences in the Canadian Rockies and has since grown to deliver adventure travel around the globe. Radwomen adventures, which encourage women to step outside their comfort zones, reconnect with themselves, and return home stronger, more confident, and inspired by what they are capable of, include the Canadian Rockies, Albania, Iceland, New Zealand and South Africa. 

“Travel is one of the most powerful tools for confidence-building, perspective-shifting, and personal growth, and women deserve spaces where they can explore boldly, safely, and without compromise,” says Sierra Searing. “When women travel together, something unique happens: barriers fall away, self-belief rises, and lifelong friendships are formed.” 

Our top pick: Radwomen Albania and Georgia, September 2026: This small group, women-only adventure blends immersive food and wine experiences with easy scenic walks through mountains, valleys, and timeless villages. Together, we’ll explore ancient monasteries carved into cliffs, taste natural wines at family-run cellars, and connect with locals through hands-on cooking classes and shared feasts.

Learn more about Radventures here.

place to stay canada banner

9. Babes in Bali, based in Calgary, Alberta 

Founded by renowned Bali expert Cathy Gotfried in 2002, Babes in Bali has introduced over 500 women of all ages and walks of life to this exotic and dream-inspiring destination. Cathy personally escorts each trip and insightfully curates a unique and intimate experience for each individual that will inspire and create personal memories to last a lifetime. Culture, spirituality, spas, yummy food, divine shopping, ancient temples, glorious beaches, breathtaking snorkelling, and gorgeous hotels are all part of what Cathy has to share with you.

“With my love of the beauty, culture and people of Bali, you know you’ll be in good hands,” Gotfried says. “Bali is a place of wonder (not to mention incredible shopping, spas and culinary experiences!) and I am confident that you’ll share this feeling after our first few days of exploring the countryside and enjoying the gracious hospitality of the people of this magical tropical paradise.” 

Our top pick: Cathy’s trips are always sold out, so contact her directly! 

Learn more about Babes in Bali here.

10. India for Beginners, Based in Toronto, Ontario (and India)

Founded by award-winning Canadian travel blogger Mariellen Ward, India for Beginnners is a partnership between Mariellen, who knows what it’s like to travel as a foreign woman in India, and a Delhi-based travel company with many years of knowledge and experience. India for Beginners tours are especially designed for solo female travellers, first time visitors to India, and people with a “beginner’s mind” who want to see India in a new way, with a focus on sustainability and authenticity.

“I’m a long-time solo female traveller so I know how rewarding it is,” Ward says. “But I also know how challenging it can be for some women to get up the courage to get out and see the world! I want to support women in their personal journeys and help make their travel dreams come true. And I want to help them travel safely and well.” 

Our top pick: Any of the custom trips, likeShopping, Crafts, and Artisans’. India is a shopper’s paradise. There is an astonishing variety of dazzling clothes, fabrics, shawls, shoes, jewellery, spices, rugs, pottery, furniture, and much, much more.

Learn more about India for Beginners here.

A rainbow over the South East England countryside

Derwentwater in the English Lake District / Credit Envato by NaturesCharm

11. Senior Discovery Tours, based in Toronto, Ontario

With 50 years in business, Senior Discovery Tours has become Canada’s largest and most trusted operator of guided tours for travellers over 55. With SDT’s tours, everything is included: flights, hotels, most meals and excursions, taxes and tips. Plus, all prices are guaranteed in Canadian dollars, so the price is the price, period.

“At Senior Discovery Tours, we’re proud to empower women over 55 to explore the world through enriching group travel experiences,” says Danny Shay, President. “Travelling with like-minded people, our expertly guided tours take care of every detail, with four activity levels and eight tour types to match every pace and passion.”

Our top pick: Lakes District & Yorkshire Dales, a 14-day hiking trip with a choice of up to 3 daily walks of varying difficulty levels, including gentle walks of only 5 – 7 kms. The trip starts with 7-night stay in Derwentwater, often referred to as the “Queen of the Lakes”, with some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Lakes District. This idyllic location provides easy access to a variety of landmarks, including the fells (hills) of Cat Bells, Walla Craig and Latrigg. To the south, lies the entrance to the stunning Borrowdale Valley.

Learn more about Senior Discovery Tours here.

12. The Polar Adventure Company, based in Newfoundland, Canada

Founded by polar industry veterans Clayton Anderson, Jason Hillier, and Thomas Lennartz, Polar Adventures specializes in Arctic and Antarctic expedition cruises and land-based safaris and is a trusted resource for the travel community seeking expert advice, unbiased guidance and unforgettable polar experiences.

“Embracing and supporting women’s travel is essential because it aligns with the values of inclusivity, adventure, and empowerment,” Lennartz says. “These regions, known for their extreme conditions and breath-taking landscapes, offer transformative experiences that challenge personal limits and create lasting memories.”

Our top pick: See highlighted offers in our recent HOT FLASH email here. 

Learn more about the Polar Adventure Company here.

java and bali woman eldertreks

ElderTreks’ Java and Bali tour runs in October 2026 / Photo Credit: ElderTreks

13. ElderTreks, based in Toronto, Ontario

Since 1987, ElderTreks has led small-group adventures for travellers aged 50 and over. We design every trip with mature explorers in mind. Our focus is comfort, safety, and enriching experiences—without losing the thrill of discovery.

“We place a special focus on empowering women travellers, providing a welcoming and supportive environment where confidence, curiosity, and camaraderie thrive,” says founder Gary Murtagh. “Whether travelling solo or with friends, women can feel secure, inspired, and encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and embrace bold, transformative adventures that leave a lasting impact.”

Our top pick: Java and Bali in October-November 2026: Discover the wonders of Indonesia on an unforgettable journey through Java, Bali, and Komodo. Explore the cultural heart of Java in Yogyakarta, visit the magnificent Borobudur Temple, and witness a spectacular sunrise over the iconic Mount Bromo volcano.

Learn more about ElderTreks here.

14. G Adventures, based in Toronto, Ontario

Founded in 1990 by social entrepreneur Bruce Poon Tip, G Adventures is a pioneer of community tourism and leader in small group travel, offering more than 750 life-changing trips in 100 countries on all seven continents. Recognizing that older women are among its most important guests, G Adventures has launched a full suite of new, cost-effective adventure experiences for women over 50, including new ‘Classic’ trips include safaris in Africa and multi-country trips in Central America that were only previously available to travellers aged up to 39. 

“At G Adventures, we’re committed to travel that is a two-way exchange,” says Poon Tip. “This means not only do travellers have the time of their lives, but local people in the destinations we visit benefit, too. Did you know that two thirds of our travellers are women, and of those two thirds are solo travellers?” 

Our top pick:  Solo-ish Egypt, which JourneyWoman’s Carolyn Ray travelled on in June 2025. 

Learn more about G Adventures here.

About the JourneyWoman Women’s Travel Directory

JourneyWoman, the world’s first resource for solo women travellers established in 1994, hosts the JourneyWoman Women’s Travel Directory as a free service to help women plan safe, women-friendly solo travel, while supporting women-owned and small tourism businesses around the world. The Directory includes hundreds of curated and vetted multi-day tours, retreats, small ships and train experiences. Featured categories include adventure travel, wellness, hiking and walking, special interest trips, as well as accessible, LGBTQ+ and Indigenous tours. Within the Directory, there is a ‘Places to Stay’ resource where women can find and share safe, affordable women-friendly hotels, hostels and other accommodation options. JourneyWoman vets each business and provides a JourneyWoman badge to those that meet certain criteria.

The post Celebrating Canada: Canadian-Owned Companies For Women to Travel With appeared first on JourneyWoman.

This post was originally published on this site.