I’ve written countless articles on solo travel for women and why every woman should venture out on her own. But, I’m often asked, “Where is it safe for women to travel solo? Where should I go on solo trips?”
While there may be some destinations that are safer than others, the world is not as scary as some might think. With a positive attitude and general street smarts, there are plenty of safe places to travel alone where you can feel confident and secure on your own.
In my opinion, these are the best destinations to travel solo!
Note: Please keep in mind that “safe” is a relative term and you should always use your best judgment when on a solo trip. These recommendations are based on my own experiences and my sense of safety traveling solo to each destination.
Here are my top 10 safest places for women to travel alone.
Iceland
If there’s one country perfect for solo female travelers — it’s Iceland. The small Nordic island nation is one of the safest countries in the world, it’s easy to get around and is full of incredible adventures – perfect for your first-ever solo trip!
Even though Iceland’s nickname of “The Land of Fire & Ice” sounds intimidating, solo travel is comfortable and easy here. The city of Reykjavik is famous for its music scene and nightlife, so you’ll have no problem meeting locals and fellow travelers.
There are countless reasons to visit Iceland, but it’s her natural beauty that steals the show. Join a tour and snorkel or dive the Silfra Fissure, or even hike a glacier in Iceland! And don’t miss a bath at the beautiful Blue Lagoon!
As one of the safest places for solo female travelers, Iceland is an ideal pick! Here are 10 tips for traveling around Iceland!
Switzerland
From the drop-dead gorgeous mountain views, meadows on meadows of beautiful wildflowers, and the Rhône river backdrops, Switzerland is one of the most picturesque countries.
If you’re visiting Switzerland in the winter, the Swiss Alps and Interlaken are a must. If you’re interested in looking at stunning architecture all day, Bern gets an honorable mention for being so dang beautiful.
Geneva was one of my favorite spots on a summer jaunt around Europe—with access to the lakeshore, the jet d’eau, Parc de la Grange, and more, it’s the perfect spot to be immersed in the Swiss culture.
Switzerland is in the top 10 of the safest countries in the world. While violent crime is extremely rare, petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft of vehicles (including bikes) does occasionally happen in the bigger cities.
That said, Switzerland was made for solo trips and is one of the safest places for solo female travelers.
New Zealand
Adventure awaits in the glaciers, beaches, and fjords of New Zealand. In New Zealand, you’ll come across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
New Zealand is one of the easiest places to travel alone as a woman. The country has excellent infrastructure, it’s safe and the perfect choice if you love the outdoors and adventure sports.
If you’re looking to meet other travelers, join an adventure tour or stay in one of the many hostels. For those looking to get away from the world for a bit, you can rent a motorhome and go on a self-driving tour of the country.
Doing a New Zealand road trip is an extremely popular way to see the gorgeous country and all it has to offer.
Just keep in mind that a trip to New Zealand can get pricey — so budget more than you think you’ll need. Here are my tips for traveling New Zealand on a budget!
Australia
Australia is home to some of the most diverse wildlife and landscapes in the world, and it was the destination of my first-ever solo trip abroad — now that’s saying something!
Plus, Americans can get a working holiday visa!
I explored The Outback and Uluru, rode the Ghan Train, and hiked through Kata Tjuta and the Valley of the Winds.
You should also explore the bigger cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and the stunning Gold Coast, but don’t limit yourself—rent a car and hit the road.
Because English is the common language in Australia, it makes getting around very easy for native speakers, too!
Make sure to check out these tips for traveling Australia!
Canada
Nearly everywhere you go in Canada; you’ll be surrounded by multiculturalism and some of the most breathtaking landscapes your eyes have ever seen.
Canadians have a reputation for being the friendliest people in the world and, while traveling alone here, you’ll see why!
Canada is also massive, and there are tons of hiking trails and other outdoor activities for adventure junkies at the various national parks.
Make your way to the West Coast and stop by Vancouver—the bustling seaport is home to a thriving art, music, and theater scene. For something completely different, visit the city of Montreal.
Placed on an island in the Saint Lawrence River, its narrow streets are lined with cute boutiques and bistros, and you can soak up the city’s unique French colonial heritage.
Solo travel for women sounds pretty great in Canada, hey?
French Polynesia
With diverse marine life, some of the world’s best diving, incredible natural beauty, and a heavy vanilla scent that follows you wherever you go, the islands of French Polynesia are a place that you’ve never seen the likes of before.
It is truly SO breathtaking and a memorable destination that you’ll want to return to year after year.
While getting there is one of the most difficult parts, French Polynesia is an excellent safe place to travel alone.
Ireland
Ireland may not be known for great weather, but the Emerald Isle is a place of happiness and beer. Cozy up in a local pub, catch a football game, or head out to the countryside for an incredible Irish experience.
There is so much to see and do in the gorgeous green country — here are tips for exploring Ireland!
Whether you’re looking to road trip around Ireland, experience the top things to do in Dublin, visit the Guinness Storehouse, or traverse the Wild Atlantic Way, there is no shortage of fun things to do.
Is Ireland on your solo travel bucket list? For those who are backpacking around Europe, it’s a fantastic solo travel destination in Europe!
Namibia
Namibia is the ultimate road trip destination and a fantastic destination year-round. Home to deserts and stunning coastlines, it’s one of my favorite trips to Africa to date.
Located in the largest conservation area of Africa, Sossusvlei is breathtaking. On my first trip to Namibia, I spent seven epic days road-tripping in Namibia. For my second trip, I explored the Skeleton Coast and stayed at Spitzkoppen Lodge!
Japan
Want to travel to a destination that’s completely different from your hometown? Book a ticket to Japan!
With its fascinating Japanese culture, a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun is an incredible experience. Tokyo is generally a safe city to explore for solo female travelers, and you can get pretty much everywhere with the city’s efficient train system.
Plus, there are female-only train cabins, and some hotels have female-only floors!
Spend your trip belting out tunes at karaoke, eating your way through the best food in Tokyo, or exploring the famous Harajuku district. If you’re a major foodie like me, you’ll definitely want to sample these local Japanese foods.
Whether you want to stick to Tokyo or explore other parts of Japan like Kyoto, Osaka, or Mt. Fuji — there is so much to see and do. Here are 10 tips for traveling around Japan!
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is unlike any other city on the planet. With its bold architecture and over-the-top style, the United Arab Emirates’ largest city is a distinct fusion of its Bedouin heritage and an ultra-modern culture all its own.
Dubai doesn’t just live up to its reputation; it will completely exceed your expectations. Explore the glitz and glam, and then uncover the ancient traditions of this multifaceted city.
While traveling Dubai as a woman, and on a solo trip at that, might not be the first place on your radar — Dubai is a great solo travel destination!
Violent crime is low, and tourists typically won’t face anything worse than some pickpocketing. If you’re a solo female traveler, two major things to keep in mind while in the UAE are how you act or dress in public to prevent breaking local rules.
While this may seem odd, especially if you’re from a Western country, it’s a different culture, so read up before you head to any conservative country!
TBA Escapes All-Female Tours
I host bespoke female tours around the world, including Morocco and South Africa. Check out TBA Escapes for upcoming all-female tours around the world!
And there you have it, the 10 safest destinations for solo female travelers!
Let me know in the comments your favorite places to travel alone.
The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide
Solo travel for women can be challenging — I’ve learned so much over the years (and I’m continually learning!). I put together this comprehensive guide to solo travel destinations and taking solo trips so you can better prepare for your next trip!
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Bali isn’t a country, FYI. 😉
Actually, Bali was one of the few places where I DID feel unsafe in Indonesia, where I have lived and traveled extensively (usually alone). I found that Bali–and other locations that cater to young, partying backpackers–tend to attract the shady, predatory types that I didn’t often encounter in non-touristy areas (this goes for much of Southeast Asia, in fact). In major tourist areas like Bali, I felt I always had to worry about being scammed, being a target for predatory sexual harassment, having my drink spiked, etc. A friend of mine was roofied there, others were scammed by policy looking for bribes. It’s depressing, to me, to have to adopt an attitude of distrust towards local people in order to stay safe.
While it requires maybe a different kind of traveler, I recommend people get off the tourist party circuit and visit other parts of Indonesia. Much of Java is quite safe and easy to travel (although, no, you wan’t be able to wear a bikini there).
I know 😉 That’s why the article is “destinations.” 4 of the items aren’t countries- Bali included. Everyone has their own travel experiences, so it’s always good to hear different points of view. But WOW I surely didn’t share the same experience as you. Everything in Bali felt so laid back and locals were incredibly kind, helpful and honest.
I didn’t feel that Bali was a party or backpacker destination either, but I also avoided areas like Kuta and didn’t “party” there and wasn’t traveling with other backpackers. So perhaps, that was why I wasn’t a target. In the end, it’s all about judgement. Don’t go to areas that are known for crime or may put you in danger as a solo traveler.
What’s your opinion on the safety of solo female travelers in London?
I’d give the same advice to any solo female traveler in most major cities. I’ve traveled solo in London on 3 different trips and found it to be perfectly safe. Use your street smarts and avoid any areas that are common for crime. I think pick-pocketing is probably the most common crime on tourists, so just be sure to keep your belongings close- especially if the tube is crowded.