Welcome, fellow solo traveler. This is where your adventure begins. Solo traveling is a beautiful gift. You’re going to learn so much about yourself, make so many fabulous new friends, meet so many beautiful strangers, and see so many vibrant landscapes and skyscrapers, too. The world is your oyster, but the question is, where do you start?
When I see lists like these I often just see suggestions for places women should travel to solo based on only one thing: safety. While crime stats are worth noting, they’re not the defining factor for a great place for women to travel alone. The best destinations aren’t just the popular and well-trodden ones, either. Some of the best places to travel to by yourself might be in the places you least expected, or didn’t even know existed yet.
PS: Traveling alone for the first time? These 10 destinations are perfect for you:
The best destinations for solo female travelers will be where locals are particularly friendly and welcoming, or it’s social due to a shared interest like surfing or diving, and even though it might be off the beaten path a bit, it’s not so remote that you’ll be the only one there. It still has that special charm that makes it feel authentic and inviting.
Sounds amazing, right? So where can you find these places? I’ve searched high and low, and these are some of my favorite destinations for solo female travel – they might surprise you:
...because it has everything Bali had once upon a time.
Many people, myself included, are put off by Bali's overtourism, where there's constantly bad traffic, beaches littered with trash, and long waits for photos at popular Instagram spots. So where can one go in Indonesia where there are stunning waterfalls, nice beaches and a social yet laidback atmosphere, like Bali once upon a time had? The answer is Lombok. Not only is Lombok overall a wonderful alternative to Bali, but also cheaper. As a solo traveler, I find it easier to socialize and connect with other solo travelers in Lombok, as people tend to hang out at the same spot, like Kuta, or go to the same beaches.
...because there's nothing like a little solo motorbike adventure.
Siargao Island is a water-lover and general adventurer’s dream. You can go on a little solo motorbike adventure, as the roads are mostly flat and easy. It is also a surfer’s paradise with a playful soul to it, so if you are a surfing enthusiast, or have been thinking of picking it up, Siargao is perfect. The island's popularity is growing rapidly, but the atmosphere remains laidback and relaxing. This means that it’s just as easy to meet others as to be by yourself. I was able to hang out with surfers on the beach, talk to other people in restaurants and cafes, and retreat to my little corner in an adorable guesthouse every night. It's perfect!
↠ A Complete Guide to the Philippines
...because the animals will keep you entertained.
Few places in the world offer its visitors the opportunity to share such close proximity to unique birds, reptiles, and sea critters without them turning fearful, and since most people come to the Galápagos for the animals, meeting people of the same interest becomes super easy. Whether on an island cruise or a dive trip, you are bound to meet like-minded people and have an amazing time together! Prior to my visit, I always thought the Galápagos was effectively off limits to budget backpackers, but I couldn’t be more wrong, as you can absolutely do the Galápagos on a budget!
↠ The best time to visit the Galápagos islands
...because its friendliness and hospitality is out of this world.
Remember travel before the Internet was so ubiquitous, before Instagram was even a thing, and before the birth of "influencer"? Allow me to introduce you to French Polynesia, where the locals immediately treat you as though they know you, the environment is preserved and treasured by the locals, and you can truly come back to yourself. While Bora Bora may make solo travelers feel a little bit out of place, French Polynesia has way more than that to offer, and I can almost guarantee you that you will have a wonderful time as a solo girl. This is a country I know I will be returning to again and again.
...because Africa isn't 'scary' after all.
Africa gets a bad rap as being a scary place to travel through, and while it's important to take precautions (here's a list of them), that doesn't mean solo female travelers should write it off. I love how laidback Coffee Bay (and that whole coastline) is and how many other cool backpackers are always passing through. It’s easy to meet other people, go on long walks along the bluffs on the ocean, and take in gorgeous nature. While South Africa does have a pretty high crime rate, the bulk of it is in the cities. I loved the little towns like Coffee Bay where there weren't many people or worries around at all.
I maintain, Africa's not that 'scary'.
I love Tofo, Mozambique because of the type of adventurous and interesting people it attracts. It seems like most travelers in Mozambique have a cool story, and have arrived by word-of-mouth. There are only a couple of backpackers accommodations there (I stayed at Fatima’s), and scuba dive shops, but both are excellent places to meet other solo travelers.
Beach Bums, Unite.
The white-sand beaches and baby blue waters of Zanzibar are legendary, and there’s so much to do there from diving to swimming, boating, and perusing the markets in Stone Town. It’s attractive for a lot of reasons. I remember laughing and dancing at the reggae bar there with Masai warriors dressed in regalia, local beach boys, and tourists from all over, loving how communal and inviting it was. Even if you go there solo, you can find your people. Just lock up your stuff in the safes, as there's some petty crime.
The capital of dining alone.
The language barrier may make you feel a little bit intimidated at first, but virtually everything from public transportation to ordering food from a local restaurant is so organized and systematic, it makes traveling in Japan such an easy and enjoyable experience. In cities like Osaka and Tokyo, there are all kinds of interesting things to do, including all kinds of themed cafes, unique museums where one can easily spend hours in, and beautiful parks perfect for people watching. Visiting Japan is also perhaps the best place to master the art of dining alone. Many solo travelers are afraid of eating alone, but in Japan, eating alone is completely normal. There are even restaurants that sell on "low interaction dining"!
Because it is literally the safest country in the world.
Iceland is ranked the #1 safest country in the world by Vision of Humanity, and I can attest, people left their cars running while they went grocery shopping! That's how sure they are that nobody will steal their car. Iceland's landscape is so unique and stunning, plus it's great for a road trip. Reykjavik has social hostels as well, where you can find adventure partners. This guide has everything you need to know about Iceland.
Perfect for times when you don’t want to hike solo, but you’re solo.
Even if you start out alone in the 5-day W or the 8-day O Circuit trek in Torres del Paine National Park, you’ll come out of it with a bunch of new friends. For the same reasons that I loved the Annapurna Circuit, I love the social atmosphere amongst campers and hikers on this trek, particularly on the back, 'O', part of the trail where fewer hikers go and the crowds are more intimate. Refugio Dickson, in particular, was tons of fun thanks to the social rangers who played music and organized soccer games.
...because it's for more than just honeymooners.
It's crazy to think that Hawaii would be a good place to travel to solo, but I was delighted to find that there were tons of things for me to do even though I wasn't on my honeymoon. I made friends easily while snorkeling, found a lot of active adventures, like hiking to waterfalls on the Road to Hana, and found a surf school especially for women as well!
Stay entertained!
New Orleans turned out to be one of the most enjoyable solo trips I've had. I spent a week in the Big Easy, and was kept entertained by the huge variety of things to do. Even when I dined alone in restaurants, the wait staff and the others were totally open to talk, and almost everyone I met had a suggestion for me on where to go next. I never felt like the odd woman out either as I sometimes do in beachy or couples’ destinations.
...because it is so meditative and relaxing!
Montana is the type of place where the locals deeply value nature they’re blessed with, and where visitors can find abundant yoga classes, opportunities to walk among ancient trees, and ample opportunity to relax and reflect. Country roads make way for organic grocery stores, crystal shops, and artist galleries. I was lucky to be able to experience Montana through the locals' eyes, and found many meditative things to do and places to go, including Crystal Sound Bowl Meditation and standup paddleboarding.
...because it's one of the safest and friendliest places you will visit.
Quite possibly the safest and most scenic place to drive through, Québec is a special place with endless beauty to offer to its visitors. If you are looking for a comfortable solo road trip experience with great accommodation choices, delicious food, and friendly locals, Québec is perfect for just that. Come for the beautiful fall foliage, but stay for the food, hospitality, and uncrowded adventures in a beautiful part of Canada.
...because waterfalls are best when shared.
Iguazu Falls is one of Argentina's most-visited attractions and for good reason, I mean just look at that beauty. There are plenty of social places to stay, from mid-range hotels to hostels. A friend of mine told me he enjoyed his guesthouse so much that it took him three days to actually leave the hostel and go see the waterfall!
...because places that attract surfers are social by nature.
This little surfing town on Sri Lanka’s east coast, which doesn’t get nearly as much tourism as the booming south, is so tranquil and chill, it’s hard to leave. Places that have a sport as their main draw always attract more solo travelers, and this little surfing town in paradise is one of them. Extra points if you take the train there, one of the best parts about traveling through Sri Lanka.
...because hikers are friendly people.
I geared up for the Annapurna Circuit, a 2-week hiking loop in Nepal, solo. I remained solo up until departure, and didn't have a hiking buddy until I met one on my bus ride in, picked up two more in the coming days near the top, and expanded the group even further. By the time we finished, we were a group of six. A communal endeavor like hiking tends to bring people together.
...because this is one friendly road trip.
It's the small towns on Ireland's least populated coast that can be the most social. In a country that's already pretty friendly, I found that people were especially friendly along the Wild Atlantic Way on the Connemara Coast. Just walk into any pub and within a few seconds someone will be talking to and joking around with you.
Where you can truly be yourself.
Berlin is hands down, one of the coolest cities in the world. It's like Brooklyn meets San Francisco with an LA vibe. Whatever you identify yourself as, you can easily find your tribe here. The city is filled with creative people, alternative things to do, and delicious food to devour. I never felt like the odd one out being a solo girl in the city, because people couldn't care less (in a good way). You can dress like a unicorn diarrhea and barely anyone would bat an eyelash. What's not to love about that?
The most social place in Patagonia.
Much of Patagonia, particularly along the Carretera Austral, is remote and quiet, but if you’re solo, El Chaltén is the best mix of nature and social opportunities. The hostels are warm and friendly places, many of the hikes and campsites are well-loved, and it’s easy to meet others on the more trodden hikes. Far from the cat calls of Buenos Aires, I found El Chaltén to be a breath of fresh air.
...because having cenotes to yourself is magical.
Renting a car and heading from Cancún through Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and down to Bacalar is an epic road trip in itself. With pristine cenotes, white sand beaches, and Mayan ruins along the way, being able to take this trip at your own pace is liberating. Plus, Tulum and Bacalar are particularly social, meaning you can easily make friends and share the experience with other travelers.
↠ Things to in and around Cancún
...because there are so many epic day trips to keep you busy.
Thailand is famously a great place for solo female travelers because of how friendly the locals are and the overall abundance of other backpackers. It's easy to meet other travelers here who might be down to explore different hikes, temples, and other excursions just outside of Chiang Mai. This northern Thailand city is also known for its outstanding gastronomy, and traveling solo means that you can eat your way through Chiang Mai without anybody stopping you. Yum!
↠ 9 Awesome Things to Do in Chiang Mai
...because an island vacation is the ultimate "treat yo'self"
Maybe you wouldn't think the Bahamas would be a solo female traveler destination because of its reputation as a honeymoon spot, but think again! With hundreds of islands to choose from, you can have the island vacation of your dreams here. Swim with nurse sharks, play with the famous Exumas pigs, snorkel, dive, and have a blast all on your own terms in the Bahamas.
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After traveling for over seven years, mostly by myself, I’ve found some really special gems around this world that seemed to have that special something that was missing from many others, and all of these places have that.
I was delighted to find, sometimes in places I least expected, that such friendly people and amazing social atmosphere could exist, and that’s the beauty of traveling on your own.
Need help with the planning, financing, figuring out how to travel for cheap or even free, and what to bring?
Megan Thudium says
I love how your places are “off the beaten path.” I’d also add Austria and New Zealand to the list. I loved traveling these places solo.
Kristin says
Also great places that I need to see more of!
Ijana Loss says
I would love to go all these places! Thank you for picking places that aren’t just the typical “safe countries” lol because honestly most places are safe enough as long as you’re smart and there’s so much more to the world when you open up to places you wouldn’t normally consider. I’ve been considering taking a hiking themed trip which many of the locations you listed would be perfect for, maybe I just need to bite the bullet and do it.
Kristin says
Pick Patagonia!
Ijana Loss says
Yes that’s what I was thinking!
Denis says
While we havent visited (yet) majority of places on this list we can definetely confirm that Phong Nha ke Bang felt as a very warm and welcoming atmosphere, people came across as genuinly kind if you have any troubles. The owners of the housestay we lodged at also kindly invited us to share their familly dinner and have a nice discussion about the area.
Kristin says
That’s so sweet they invited you to join them for dinner! I loved the welcoming atmosphere there and the people I met.
Kristin says
I agree Europe is good, although there are pickpockets and cat callers in some parts but that’s part of being a female sometimes, sadly.
Maria says
Hi Kristen!!
Love your blog, was wondering…for your Iceland trip, how many days do you recommend? I’ve heard a long weekend is great especially if you’re flying from the east coast since it’s a relatively short flight. Also best season/months to visit?
Kristin says
I really loved visiting in October since I got changing leaves and the northern lights. I did 11 days and it felt short, but you could also maximize a long weekend and see a lot if you stick to the Golden Circle: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/iceland-golden-circle-self-drive/
Maria says
Thanks so much for the tips, Kristin** ❤️ 🙂
Crazy Travelista says
Love this list so much! I haven’t heard of so many of these places, so I’m extra intrigued! Patagonia is high on my list! Although I’m so not a camper, hence the reason I’ve avoided it thus far haha. Are there other ways to do Patagonia, maybe more glamping style? It’s so hard to find good info on it. Or maybe it’s that there is so much info that its overwhelming.
Kristin says
If you went to El Chalten you could stay in town and do day hikes without having to camp. Much of the rest of it isn’t glamping style, though. You can sometimes stay in the refugios, but they’re usually quite basic as well. Seems like a good place to try camping out. You might really like it!
Arianwen says
This is an awesome list. I’ve been to quite a few of these by myself as well. I loved Pai and Don Det. Lucky for me, I met people to trek the Torres del Paine with, but it was still a surprisingly sociable experience. I never thought we’d be drinking boxed wine with other campers in the evenings!
Kristin says
The boxed wine! Haha same here.
Grace says
Thanks for the great list! I will definitely be referring to this when I pick where to travel over the summer:)
Vicky says
Adding these to my list!!
pilla says
Amazing places. All on my to-visit list. Looking forward to my next vacay. Don’t know where to go yet though.
Kate - Travel for Difference says
Such incredible destinations! It’s great to see some inspiration for solo travellers, especially to locations that are far from the traditional ‘London’ or ‘NZ’. Great post!
Krista @ Gringita says
Some places in Peru are awesome for solo travel as well! Notably Lima and Cusco! Though not all of Peru is safe for solo female travelers (I do not recommend going into the Amazon! but that is in any country with Amazon jungle).
Sophiya says
Sounds like a great list! I haven’t been to all that places, but looks very amazing and wonderful. After reading this blog, I definitely visit to all these places. Thanks @Kristin for sharing these interesting places.
Megan says
This list is just what I needed to read right now. I’m a copywriter and have been trying to plan my next solo trip – did any of these spots stand out as good for working from? I always seem to pick spots with questionable Internet and want to make sure I get it right this next time!
Kristin says
I would just recommend getting a local SIM card. I’m sitting in Tanzania right now working from 3G and I’m not paying much for it. In Africa it’s a must, I’d say. China is OK but you need a VPN, and naturally the European destinations will have better Wifi
Mehndi says
This is a great list! Im looking into starting properly travelling and am trying to plan a few good adventures! this really helped me out!
Alice Teacake says
Hi Kristin! I love it that you’ve got Ireland, Coron in the Philippines and Phong Nga in Vietnam on your bucket list. I’ve been to them and can vouch that they rock for solo female travellers 🙂 You’re always pushing boundaries and comfort zones and you’ve got some great hiking spots on here. Thank you for the continuous inspiration. Love what you’re doing. Keep it up!
Kristin says
Aw thank you Alice! Glad you like the post and that you’ve been there and love those places too!
Maritza says
Hi any info on Canary Islands?
Loved your book and blog!
Kristin says
Haven’t been yet!
Undefined Journey says
I just love your blog, there are so many places where I can go
Sarah says
I just came back from Coffee Bay and I loved it! I’m from Johannesburg so I know what the crime is like but I felt completely safe in Coffee Bay. Everyone is super chilled and the beaches are beautiful and wild. Great list, by the way. I had a similar experience on Annapurna – hikers are just cool people 🙂
Kristin says
I loved how chilled Coffee Bay was too!
NJ says
Hi Kristin,
Just discovered your blog this weekend and have been reading all the articles since then! Just wondering if you’ve ever been to/heard much about Guatamala? I’m considering my first solo trip there this summer before I get married next year and was curious if it would make for a good first time solo trip destination.
Thank you!
Kristin says
I’ve only visited Tikal, the big Mayan ruins there. I have heard it’s awesome, though. Nice, conscious communities as well are around. I’d go there in a heartbeat!
NJ says
Oh perfect! Thank you very much! Now to take the plunge….
melissa says
Greetings! Glad to have found you. Any trips in July? I would sign up immediately!
What is the average age of travelers?
selinacantrell says
Me and my friends are planning to go to spain this January. We would love to see some nice beaches with clear water and some stunning scenery. We were thinking Majorca,Ibiza and Canary Island, we are up to some adventures and experience a great nightlife in our travel. Can anyone suggest any ideas or tips? Any help is kindly appreciated 🙂
Jass says
Love your blog, was wondering and this Pai Thailand destination is good for female travellers and this is the best place I had a great experience at this place. and Thank you for sharing these options.
Kristin says
I know that it’s changed since I was last there and has become a lot more touristy, but I hear it’s still pretty cool. I loved it and went solo three times. Even considered living there for a while.
Solo Female Traveler says
Oh my, I loved this article. Very informative.
Solo Female Traveler says
Very valuable information! Thank you
Alysse Chase says
Yes! Thank you for this list ?I’ve been thinking about traveling solo for years but have had an internal debate over where I actually should go. This is perfect! Does anyone have experience using travel apps like Fairytrail or Couchsurfing to meet people while traveling solo? Appreciate the help! ?
Kristin says
I’ve met people couchsurfing and it’s hit or mess tbh but the hits are so great! You can also check out my facebook group for solo female travelers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BMTMSoloFemaleTravelConnect/
Luna Jennifer says
It’s been inspirational to read these posts!
Dolakh Thapa says
Thank you so much for placing Annapurna Circuit Trek, Nepal in your 20 most awesome destinations. Nepal is really a perfect destination for adventure lovers. I request you to try Everest Base Camp Trek as a solo female traveler in visit Nepal 2020.
Kristin says
I’d love to do more trekking there. Are there trails with fewer people?
Sabrina says
3 of them I have travelled solo…. Iguazu, Torres del Paine and El Chalten. And it’s been amazing.
I would also add Austria to that list (well i’m from there, but still, it’s so safe and easy going)
Kristin says
True and Austria is so pretty!
Mary Ann Siwek says
I want to travel to Thailand and Japan
Kimberly Roth says
i love that you picked El Chalten! I traveled there in 2019 solo and had a fabulous time. El Calafate and Puerto Madryn were great too. Another place I would recommend for solo travel is Australia. Everyone is very friendly and there’s tons of things to do.
Kristin says
great suggestion!
Tong Metal says
I just want to ask if a solo female traveler also love safari or wilderness travel, its more fantastic to see solo female travel experience this one
Kristin says
I DO!
Angela says
Hello! Do you have any advice about pick pockets when taking your own travel photos? That’s my biggest fear especially when travelling at very touristy places like Italy!
Kristin says
I don’t usually set up a tripod in a super crowded area, particularly in Europe. I’d ask someone else to take the photo for me in that case – ideally someone who also has a camera and is taking photos too.
Isa Sirbegovic says
Such a great blog! I’ve been wanting to start up more solo travel, but it can be so intimidating! I appreciate all the research that went into this post.
Rosieaustin says
Awesome list. thank you for sharing