Are you getting ready for your first adventure on your own and wondering what the best destinations for solo female travelers are? Look no further!
Solo traveling is a beautiful gift. I’ve been doing it for over 12 years and have learned so much about myself, met beautiful strangers, and discovered so many new and exciting places.
But how do you know where to start?
With over 65 countries under my belt, I’ve found that the best destinations for solo female travelers are where the residents are particularly friendly and welcoming. Either that, or there are shared interests, like surfing or diving, that help create a sense of community right away.
Or a destination might be a bit off the beaten path, but 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 — and they might surprise you!
Our Favorite Destinations for Solo Female Travelers Quick List:
- Best for Solo Female Backpackers: Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Best for Solo Female Adventurers: Siargao, Philippines
- Best for Solo Female Traveler Safety: Reykjavik, Iceland
- Best for Solo Beach Trips: Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Best for Solo Female Hikers: Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
1. Tokyo, Japan
…because Japan is one of the safest countries in the world!
This makes it absolutely ideal for solo female travelers. The language barrier may make you feel a little bit intimidated at first, but virtually everything from public transportation to ordering food at a restaurant is so organized and systematic, it makes traveling in Japan an easy and enjoyable experience.
In cities like Osaka and Tokyo, there are all kinds of interesting things to do, including themed cafés, unique museums where one can easily spend hours, and beautiful parks ideal for people-watching. And when you’re ready for the beach, there’s an island paradise near Tokyo.
Visiting Japan is also perhaps the best place to master the art of dining alone. Many solo travelers are afraid of doing so, but in Japan, it is completely normal. You must try the only all-female kaiseki restaurant in Tokyo.
Check out my ultimate Japan itinerary here.
2. Bali, Indonesia
…because Bali is a super safe and exciting destination for solo female travelers.
Let’s be honest, Bali is so popular because it’s one of the easiest, loveliest places to travel solo, and Southeast Asia in general is a great place to travel alone. It’s also the very first place in Asia where I traveled alone!
Bali has a lot of things to do, like learning to surf, staying in beautiful hotels (who says you need to be on a honeymoon to enjoy them?), and enjoying the volcanic landscape and waterfalls.
If you’re looking for some island escapes, the Nusa Islands are a favorite of mine, as are the Gilis. (Read my comparison of the Gilis vs. Nusas if you only have time for one.)
Or if you’re looking for something quieter than Bali, consider Lombok next door or one of these Bali alternatives.
3. Siargao Island, The Philippines
…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 excursion, as the roads are mostly flat and easy. It is also a surfer’s paradise with a playful soul, so if you are an enthusiast, or have been thinking of picking up the sport, Siargao is perfect.
The island’s popularity is growing rapidly, but the atmosphere remains laid-back 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 and talk to other people in restaurants and cafés, but also retreat to my little corner in an adorable guesthouse every night.
READ MORE
A Complete Guide to the Philippines
What Changed My Mind about the Philippines
4. Singapore
Who doesn’t appreciate extravagance?!
This thriving island city is unique compared to the rest of Southeast Asia. It’s home to the largest port in the region, making it one of the most prosperous and busiest Southeast Asian countries. You’ll find evidence of such in the clean streets, skyscrapers, strictly enforced laws, and abundance of things to do, like hopping between speakeasy cocktail bars or walking through the Gardens by the Bay. It’s definitely a more expensive destination, but if done right, you can easily explore on a budget with this list of free things to do.
READ MORE
Here’s a three-day itinerary by a local.
5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
…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 or temples, or go on other excursions just outside of Chiang Mai. This northern 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!
READ MORE
9 Awesome Things to Do in Chiang Mai
6. Reykjavik, Iceland
…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 that people even 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 also 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.
7. Lisbon, Portugal
…because you feel like you’re part of a painting with pastel-colored buildings.
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of Europe’s most charismatic cities because of its charming hillsides, walkable layout, and the River Tagus. You’ll find ornate architecture that adds to its vibrancy, and plenty of things to do, like admire the vistas from St. George’s Castle in Alfama, pastel-colored and tiled buildings, and the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge. There are also some must-visit museums, like the National Azulejo Museum, where you’ll learn about the ubiquitous decorative ceramic tiles that characterize the city, dating back five centuries. If you love beaches, Lisbon is a great jumping-off point to go explore the shorelines on the Atlantic Ocean.
8. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
…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 so 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.
READ MORE
Solo Female Travel in Ireland: A Complete Guide
9. Berlin, Germany
…because you can truly be yourself here.
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 as a solo girl in the city, because people couldn’t care less (in a good way). You can dress like a unicorn and barely anyone would bat an eyelash. What’s not to love about that?
READ MORE
Why I Decided to Leave Berlin (after Five Years)
10. Québec, Canada
…because it’s one of the safest and friendliest places you will visit.
Quite possibly the safest and most scenic areas 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 just right. Come for the beautiful fall foliage, but stay for the food, hospitality, and uncrowded adventures in a beautiful part of Canada.
READ MORE
The Perfect Fall Road Trip in Québec, Canada
11. The Bahamas
…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.
READ MORE
The Ultimate Staniel Cay Guide
12. Iguazu Falls, Argentina
…because there are lots of opportunities to make friends.
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 midrange 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!
READ MORE
Bariloche: Argentina’s Gateway to Patagonia
The Tale of Sola en Salta, Argentina
13. El Chaltén, Argentina
…because it’s 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 catcalls of Buenos Aires, I found El Chaltén to be a breath of fresh air.
14. The Riviera Maya, Mexico
…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 all the pristine cenotes (sinkholes), 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.
READ MORE
Things to Do in and around Cancún
How to Get between Cancún and Tulum
Best Cenotes in Cancún & Tulum
15. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
…because it’s just right when you don’t want to hike solo, but you are solo.
Even if you start out alone in the five-day W or the eight-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 among 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.
READ MORE
The Perfect 9-day Torres del Paine O Circuit Itinerary
16. Costa Rica
…because you can soak up the salt and sun.
Between the beaches, tours, volcanoes, and road trips, you’ll soon discover some of the most beautiful parts of Costa Rica. It’s easily the world’s eco-tourism capital, so make this your next destination if you love nature. Because of its unique geography (Atlantic and Pacific coasts, mountains, rain forest), there’s so much biodiversity to discover. But, Costa Rica is one of the most visited places in Latin America, so it can also be one of the more expensive destinations. Here’s a breakdown of what a trip could cost you. Here’s a guide on what to wear and the best time to go.
READ MORE
Itineraries for One Week, Two Weeks, and One Month
17. Coffee Bay, South Africa
…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), that doesn’t mean solo female travelers should write it off. I love how laid-back Coffee Bay is (and that whole coastline) — there weren’t many people around or worries at all. It’s easy to meet people, including backpackers passing through, 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.
READ MORE
The Essential Guide to Solo Female Travel in Africa
7 Reasons to Visit South Africa, the Rainbow Nation
18. Tofo, Mozambique
…because, 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 backpacker accommodations there (I stayed at Fatima’s) and scuba dive shops, but they are excellent places to meet other solo travelers.
READ MORE
Why Going Alone to Mozambique Was the Best Decision Ever
How to Travel through Mozambique
19. Sunset Beach, Zanzibar
…because there are so many awesome activities.
The white-sand beaches and baby-blue waters of Zanzibar are legendary, and there’s so much to do there, from diving and swimming to boating and perusing the markets in Stone Town. It’s one of the cheapest tropical islands to travel to, but it’s attractive for a lot of other reasons too. I remember laughing and dancing at the reggae bar there with Maasai warriors dressed in regalia, local beach boys, and tourists from all over, and 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.
READ MORE
5 Steps for the Perfect Zanzibar Style
20. New Zealand
…because there are unlimited doses of nature.
New Zealand is made up of two gorgeous islands, North and South, and both are worth visiting for the iconic destinations, especially those that are off the beaten path. You could easily spend a year here exploring all that this beautiful slice of the earth has to offer. If you love nature, you’ll be in paradise with all the dolphin watching, hiking trails, glaciers, fjords, and beaches. There’s something for the more adventurous too, like skydiving and bungee jumping!
Here’s a New Zealand packing list.
READ MORE
21. French Polynesia
…because its friendliness and hospitality is out of this world.
Remember travel before the internet became so ubiquitous, before Instagram was even a thing, and before the birth of “influencers”? Allow me to introduce you to French Polynesia, where the residents immediately treat you as though they know you, the environment is preserved and treasured, and you can truly come back to yourself. While Bora Bora may make solo travelers feel a little bit out of place, French Polynesia offers way more than that, and I can almost guarantee you that you will have a wonderful time as a solo gal. I know I will be returning to again and again.
READ MORE
An Ode to the Places We Keep Secret
22. Montana, USA
…because it is so meditative and relaxing!
Montana is the type of place where people deeply value nature they’re blessed with, and where visitors can find abundant yoga classes, ancient trees among which to walk, and ample opportunity to relax and reflect. Country roads lead to 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 stand-up paddleboarding.
READ MORE
The Relaxing Side of Whitefish, Montana
23. New Orleans, USA
…because it’s easy to 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 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.
READ MORE
An Awesome New Orleans itinerary
The Vegan’s Guide to New Orleans
24. Maui, Hawai’i, USA
…because it’s for more than just honeymooners.
It’s crazy to think that Hawai’i 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, and found a lot of active adventures, like hiking to waterfalls on the Road to Hana and a surf school especially for women!
READ MORE
23 of Maui’s Best Things to Do
Secrets of the Road to Hana in Maui
25. California, USA
…because you may just fill your heart with gold.
If you’ve never been to the Golden State, there are a lot of places you’ve got to see. The state’s beautiful landscapes, views, and national parks have inspired artists, poets, photographers, and writers. Plus there’s a lot of fun and fame when it comes to Disney Land and the Hollywood sign. Other must-sees include the the Golden Gate Bridge, deserts, and the redwoods, and you can also tour a good bit of the seashore (here’s a great guide for a Pacific Coast road trip).
READ MORE
Solo Female Travel Guide to California
After traveling for over 12 years, mostly by myself, I’ve found some 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 where I least expected, that such friendly people and an amazing social atmosphere could exist, and that’s the beauty of traveling on your own.
Which destination will you visit first?
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
Suzy says
NOLA as a destination for solo female travelers?! I live here and for your info, we not only have the second highest murder rate in the country, but we also have the highest murder rate of women! There is not a neighborhood untouched by crime. I would never venture to walk the streets – ANY street (and natives will agree) – anywhere in NOLA by myself after dark; and during the day you should always be on your guard. You’re obviously not from here.
Kristin says
Hi Suzy, I had a great time solo in NOLA and walked around plenty alone, but it was always during the day and I agree, any city in the US would require one to be on their guard and is best avoided on foot at night.
Jyoti says
Thank you for including all the details. Your above information will definitely helpful for all the travelers. I really enjoyed your post. You include all the points and I really agree with them.
Elena says
Hello,
And what about Sri Lanka?
Would you recommend it for female solo travel?
Kristin Addis says
It depends. I did have someone jiggle the handle of a room I was sleeping in and shine a light in one night there. Not the best feeling. However I think if you’re experienced and know to be on your guard it can still be good solo.
Laraib Khan says
Nice article