Solo travel can be an incredibly empowering experience for any traveler, but for female travelers, it can also come with its own set of unique challenges. That being said, there are many destinations around the world that are great for solo female travelers.
In this article, we'll explore some of the best destinations for solo female travelers, including my favorite destination, South America.
First and foremost, it's important to note that any country can be a great destination for solo female travelers.
However, some destinations may be more welcoming and safer than others, especially for those who are traveling alone. With that in mind, here are some of the best destinations for solo female travelers.
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Japan
Japan is a popular destination for solo female travelers for many reasons. First of all, it's known for being incredibly safe, with a low crime rate and a culture of respect for others. Additionally, Japan is a very clean and well-organized country, making it easy to navigate as a solo traveler. Japan is also known for being very welcoming to visitors, and many locals are happy to help out and offer advice to travelers.
TIP: Accommodation is quite expensive so think about booking your hostels in Japan beforehand. Hostels are a great way to save some money, enjoy local advise from the staff, and meet other travelers very easily.
Are you convinced about Japan as your next solo travel destination? Find the cheapest flights to Japan by setting up a flight alert for your chosen dates.
New Zealand
New Zealand is another great destination for solo female travelers, especially those who love the outdoors. This stunning country is known for its natural beauty, from its rugged coastlines to its soaring mountains.
Additionally, New Zealand is a very safe country with a low crime rate, making it a great choice for solo travelers. There are also a ton of beautiful hostels available to meet other backpackers. New Zealanders are very friendly and welcoming so don't hesitate to ask them for some local advice before going out.
TIP: Are you still worrying about how to prepare for your next adventure to New Zealand? Discover our guide to budget travel and how to prepare for your trip.
As there are only a few direct flights from Europe to New Zealand, you should really start as soon as possible to look for good flight tickets.
Iceland
Iceland is a unique and otherworldly destination that has become increasingly popular in recent years. This rugged island nation is known for its stunning natural scenery, including waterfalls, glaciers, and hot springs.
Additionally, Iceland is a very safe country with a low crime rate, making it a great choice for solo travelers. My friend, who I met during my solo travel to South America, visited Iceland and told me that the locals are really friendly and welcoming, so don't worry it will be easy to meet new people in the hostels and make friends on the road.
TIP: Do you wish to see the Nothern Lights? Book your flight between September and April to have the most chance of seeing them. This is the moment when Iceland has the longest and darkest nights so that you can enjoy a beautiful night sky.
South America
South America is a vast and diverse continent that offers many opportunities for solo female travelers. From the cosmopolitan cities of Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro to the stunning natural scenery of Patagonia and the Amazon rainforest, there is something for every traveler in South America.
Many countries in South America are known for their friendly and welcoming people, making it easy to meet new people and make friends on the road.
As a personal recommendation, I would suggest considering South America as a top destination for solo female travelers. I went there for 5 months on my own and from experience, I can say that there are many other female travelers who travel solo in South America.
I met so many powerful ladies traveling on their own, achieving their goals, and exploring the world. Read more about Solo Traveling.
Not only that, but I never felt more at home than being around these like-minded women. Do you want to know if South America is safe for you to travel to? Read more about South America.
Norway
Norway is a stunning and peaceful destination that is perfect for those looking to get away from it all. The country is known for its beautiful fjords, pristine wilderness, and friendly locals.
DID YOU KNOW: Norway is one of the safest countries in the world with a low crime rate and a strong emphasis on environmental protection. Perfect for a solo traveling trip!
The locals are also known for their friendly and egalitarian nature, making it easy to connect with people from all walks of life. But Norway can be quite expensive so make sure to check out some affordable hostels near Oslo, or hire a travel van to roam across the country.
Canada
Canada is a welcoming and safe destination for solo female travelers. The country is known for its stunning natural scenery, from the Rocky Mountains to the coastal beaches. Additionally, Canadians are known for their friendly and polite nature, making it easy to initiate conversations and meet new people. From the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver to the charming small towns, Canada has something for every type of traveler.
Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for solo female travelers for many reasons. It's known for its stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and rich culture. Additionally, Thailand is a very affordable destination, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can find the coolest hostels made of bamboo with a pool overviewing the jungle for a cheap price.
You will not have to worry for a moment about being alone on your trip because Thailand is a backpacker's heaven. Read more about how not to be lonely during solo traveling.
Australia
Australia is a vast and diverse country that offers many opportunities for solo female travelers. From the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne to the stunning natural scenery of the Great Barrier Reef and the Outback, there is something for every traveler in Australia.
Australians are known for their laid-back and friendly nature, making it easy to meet new people and make friends on the road. The country is also very safe, with a low crime rate and a well-developed travel infrastructure.
TIP: Do you want to work and travel at the same time? Australia is one of the best countries to do so! Book your flight and get your Work Visa in order.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a beautiful and welcoming destination that offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. The country is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.
Costa Rica is also known to be a safe and stable country with a strong emphasis on environmental protection and sustainable tourism. The Costa Ricans are friendly and helpful, making it easy to navigate the country and make new friends.
Portugal
Portugal is a beautiful and affordable destination that is great for solo female travelers. The country is known for its stunning beaches, historic cities, and delicious cuisine.
Additionally, Portugal is a very safe and welcoming country with a low crime rate and a culture of hospitality. The locals are also known for their friendly and laid-back nature, making it easy to strike up conversations and make new friends.
DID YOU KNOW: That the biggest waves ever to be surfed were in Portugal? More precisely on the coast of Nazaré, where you can find tons of beautiful surf hostels.
Caribbean Islands
The Caribbean islands are a sought-after haven for solo travelers from around the world, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. These islands provide a perfect escape for solo female travelers, with their warm and inviting atmosphere.
Think about Bonaire, Curaçao and Aruba. Safety is not an issue in the Caribbean! The local communities exude a welcoming spirit, often eager to assist and share insights, making a solo journey through the Caribbean islands a memorable and enriching adventure.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an important consideration for any traveler, but it can be especially important for solo female travelers. It's always better to be safe than sorry, and having insurance can give you peace of mind and financial protection in case something goes wrong. Read more about everything you need before preparing for your next adventure.
Genki Insurance
There are many travel insurance providers to choose from, including Genki, which is the one I used for traveling 5 months to South America. Genki offers good coverage for travelers that want to travel longer than 3 months. Standard travel insurances ask you to get back to your home country within three months, but with Genki you can travel for up to 2 years and still be insured. I used the services during my trip, and I was really happy with their service.
Other travel insurance providers you can use are:
World Nomads
World Nomads is a popular travel insurance provider that is designed for independent travelers, including solo travelers. They offer a range of policies that cover medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency assistance, as well as adventure activities and sports.
Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz Global Assistance is a well-known travel insurance provider that offers coverage for solo travelers, including medical expenses, trip interruption, and emergency medical transportation. They also offer 24/7 travel assistance and concierge services.
InsureMyTrip
InsureMyTrip is a travel insurance comparison website that allows you to compare policies from different providers and find the one that best meets your needs. They offer policies from a variety of insurance companies, including those that are designed for solo travelers.
Travel Guard
Travel Guard is a travel insurance provider that offers comprehensive coverage for solo travelers, including medical expenses, trip cancellations, and emergency assistance. They also offer a 24-hour emergency hotline and travel concierge services.
Seven Corners
Seven Corners is a travel insurance provider that offers coverage for solo travelers, including medical expenses, trip cancellations, and emergency assistance. They also offer coverage for adventure activities and sports, as well as 24/7 travel assistance.
When choosing a travel insurance provider, it's important to read the policy details carefully and ensure that the coverage meets your specific needs as a solo traveler.
Women's Travel Groups
Joining a women's travel group can be a great way for solo female travelers to connect with like-minded individuals and find a sense of community on the road. Many women's travel groups can be found on social media platforms like Facebook, and offer a variety of resources, tips, and advice for female travelers.
Some popular groups include Gals who Travel, Girls who travel, and Women Who Travel, both of which have active communities of women from around the world. Whether you're looking for travel buddies, safety tips, or just some inspiration and support, joining a women's travel group can be a great way to enhance your solo travel experience.
In conclusion, solo travel can be a wonderful experience for female travelers, and there are many destinations around the world that are great for solo female travelers. Just be sure to do your research and take the necessary precautions to stay safe while traveling alone. Hope you enjoyed these 11 best destinations for solo female travelers. Happy travels!
Keep on exploring & Fly Along
