Last Updated: 8/19/2018 | August 19th, 2018
Every month, Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse writes a guest column featuring tips and advice for solo female travelers as I obviously can’t talk expertly on the subject! She’s back this month with an awesome list of destinations for single women traveling!
Traveling solo as woman is a unique opportunity to find out exactly who you are in completely new surroundings and without anyone around from your past to influence you. That can be a scary prospect, but the good news is there are plenty of places out there that can make you feel safe and welcome. And when in the right place, a solo trip — regardless of how long it is — has the power to benefit you for years or even a lifetime thereafter.
Before I traveled alone – and realized how late it is, I was pretty terrified, mostly because I didn’t think I’d like my own company enough to be solo 24/7. I was delighted to find that I met new people constantly (something that’s true for solo travelers in general). When on the road, people are social and you’ll constantly be able to make new friends!
While it was possible to feel inspired and delighted everywhere, a few places in particular stand out as great options for women traveling alone. Below are 10 solo travel destinations that you probably didn’t expect to be awesome for solo female travelers in particular, whether for their women-oriented businesses or for their safety, solitude, spirituality, or sociability.
Here are the best solo female travel destinations out there:
1. Moab, Utah
Moab is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. For those all about the camper van life, bouldering, hiking, and kayaking, Moab has it all going on. It’s where you’ll find Canyonlands and Arches National Parks as well as Dead Horse State Park. Basically, it’s one of the most gorgeous areas on Earth with a high concentration of incredible rock formations and free campsites.
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: I easily met people just by hanging around the free campsites, the coffee shops, and while watching the sunset over Dead Horse point during my solo American Southwest road trip. I tend to find that when a place attracts people because of a common shared interest, especially something outdoorsy, it tends to be social. Moab is a perfect example of that.
2. Yubeng, China
Yubeng is a remote village in the Chinese Himalayas that can only be reached by foot or mule. During the hike in, I saw Tibetan prayer flags strung from tree to tree, snow softly falling, and animals roaming freely all throughout the town. There are stupas (mound-like structures containing relics and used for meditation) everywhere.
Yubeng is peaceful in a way that much of the rest of China isn’t. The feeling is hard to explain, but it’s felt by all who pass through. If you’re overwhelmed with the rest of China, seek refuge in Yubeng.
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: In the big cities, scams often target young female tourists, but in the Himalayas, you’re more of an esteemed guest. The friendly people of Yubeng are so relaxed, patient, and welcoming, as are the younger tourists who flock there, often with some English-language ability and curiosity about foreign visitors.
As a solo traveler, I was worried that I would be completely going this one alone, but I was surprised and delighted to find that young and friendly Chinese people take this route too, seeking the same sacred place.
3. Maui, Hawaii
Maui isn’t typically what comes to mind when most people think of a solo trip, but with all its activities — from surfing and hiking to driving the road to Hana and taking boating and snorkeling tours — it’s actually a great place for those flying solo.
With its constantly changing microclimates, the beautiful island has pockets of sandy sunset beaches, sprawling resorts, quaint little camping spots, and hikes through the valley.
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: The cool thing about Maui is that it feels like a different country than the States, what with the tropical weather and Hawaiian culture, but you don’t need a passport, an RTW flight, or to learn a different language to enjoy it. Plus, there are female-focused activities — like the Maui Surfer Girls camp, designed specifically for solo female travelers who are looking for a supportive group of women to take up a new sport with. It’s an experience that is both empowering and fun!
4. El Chaltén, Argentina
If you love nature, there’s almost no better spot in the world to enjoy it fully than in Patagonia. Much of the region can be quite remote, but El Chaltén is Argentina’s trekking capital, and as such there are plenty of hostels there, and the whole town is totally chilled out. It also draws plenty of solo travelers who are open and happy to meet others to share the trails with, some of whom I met and hiked with when I was there (albeit not solo myself), and we left as new friends.
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: With its constant catcalls, South America can sometimes feel stressful for solo female travelers, but this trekking town is different. It’s full of nature-loving artists and hippies who are welcoming, as well as hikes that are full enough of people that even if you show up solo, you can easily meet others on the trails. So, you could spend time in town just chilling and relaxing, or you could join glacier hikes, learn how to rock climb, or go on camping excursions, all of which accommodate solo travelers.
5. Iceland
It hit me as I was staring up at the Northern Lights in Iceland, watching them swirl and snake across the sky in flashes of green, that this has got to be, hands-down, one of the most unique and drop-dead gorgeous places on this planet, with its black sand beaches, icy fjords, and those huggable, iconic ponies. Where else can you see the northern lights, geysers, and incredible land formations all in one spot? I saw so many waterfalls, during my Ring Road adventure I stopped counting and even paying attention. That’s how abundant the natural beauty is!
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Iceland is the safest country in the world. Seriously, people leave their cars running, with the keys inside, when they go grocery shopping. That’s how high the level of trust between people is! Plus, the capital draws so many solo travelers on layovers from the US that it won’t be hard to meet someone cool at your hostel to split a car rental with for a day trip like the Golden Circle or even a longer journey like the Ring Road.
6. Ylläs, Finland
When thinking about an escape, heading to the Arctic during the winter was not exactly at the top of my list, but after experiencing how amazing the Arctic could be in Iceland, I went for it: Lapland, Finland, in January.
I found that when the weather is so cold that it drops to 30° below freezing, the air becomes incredibly crisp. Also, that far north, the sun barely sits on the horizon during the short time that it’s out, creating an unusual combination sunrise/sunset.
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: The locals are so darn amiable that you’re sure to make a few friends, especially if you head to the female-owned-and-run Aurora Estate, where the owners can help you plan some awesome excursions snowmobiling and snowshoeing. The region is also home to the only ski slopes in the country, which tend to draw solo travelers. Head to an after-ski bar, join a husky safari, or talk to the locals in Snowman World (ice bar and restaurant). Who knows? You might catch the Northern Lights, too!
7. Big Sur, California
I call California home, but for some reason it took me until I was 29 to finally visit Big Sur — and I couldn’t believe what I had been missing: the rocky coastline, whales breaching in the distance, dolphins just about every time I looked at the horizon, and waterfalls in the state parks. It’s no wonder that the Central Coast has long enchanted actors, poets, and writers (just crack open any book by Jack Kerouac and you’re bound to read at least a little bit about coastal California, particularly Big Sur).
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Camping in Big Sur is the perfect opportunity to meet others because campers are friendly. Chances are good you can make a pal at the very next camping spot, especially if you offer them a locally-brewed beer. The hustle and bustle of Los Angeles turns some visitors off, so if what you’re seeking is some incredible nature, just head five hours north and you’ll be in paradise. How can you stare up at a redwood tree (some of the largest and oldest trees in the world) and not feel moved?
8. The Nusa Islands, Indonesia
The Nusa islands off the coast of Bali in Indonesia are exactly what you’re looking for if you want the beauty of Balinese culture but wish it came without the crowds. Made up of three islands, namely Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Nusa Ceningan, They are what people say Bali was like 30 years ago.
Think gorgeous beaches with half the crowd of Bali’s, opportunities to swim with manta rays and staying in a real treehouse, viewpoints that require some footwork but absolutely worthy, and the bluest water you can imagine. It’s a lovely place to spend a few nights on and have a nice taste of how Bali used to be.
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Most couples traveling in this area opt for Bali, so chances of you sitting awkwardly next to a loving couple on a stunning beach is much lesser on the Nusa Islands. While some roads are in better condition than the other, they are all great for a full day of solo excursion on a bike. You are likely to end up in the same spots with other solo travelers, so meeting others is also very easy.
9. Sossusvlei, Namibia
It might seem like a barren desert isn’t the place to enjoy by yourself, but I have found it to be quite the opposite. That kind of space to think and feel can really be incredible for personal development. Plus, in Namibia, it’s warm and dry, so the sky is absolutely incredible for stargazing.
Climbing up and around Dune 45 at sunrise was a beautiful experience for me. After everyone else descended, I stayed up top to explore a bit more — and I had the whole view to myself. Can you imagine sitting in one of nature’s biggest sandboxes and having it feel like it’s all yours? My inner six-year-old rejoiced.
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Namibia is adventurous and social without feeling dangerous. All of the backpackers and camping accommodations have pools and other common areas, which makes it easy to meet others if you’re solo. It’s also a gorgeous destination in Africa that isn’t crowded and chaotic and is more about the peace and space than anything else. In a country of only two million people, your biggest worry is the scorpions (for real, though — watch out for those!).
You can also join a tour or safari and meet plenty of other solo travelers. It’s what I did, and I loved it!
10. Berlin, Germany
How did a big city make this list? Well, Berlin is not just any city; it’s full of artists and has been for the past 30 or so years. It’s hard not to feel inspired in a place where so many people make their living by creating and honoring their passions. This is why I’ve also made it my home base and became a resident of Germany. I just couldn’t be without this funky place for too long!
Though it’s the capital, Berlin doesn’t feel crowded because it is so spread out. And with so many big parks in just about every neighborhood, peace and quiet is easy to come by.
Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Berlin draws many solo travelers, and it’s easy to meet others. It’s also a socially progressive city with a low violent crime rate that’s simple to navigate and easy to love. Take a street art tour and combine everything at once! There are also tons of expats, so check out a Meetup.com group or a Couchsurfing event to get a mix of visitors and those who are more familiar with the city.
While solo traveling and soul-searching don’t lend themselves to a one-size-fits-all approach, generally the places that draw solo travelers are the ones that are the most interesting and unique, provide opportunities to enjoy nature and connect with others (and with yourself). Regardless of which place you’re targeting in the world, with these best places for women to travel alone covering just about every continent and style of travel, you can find a place that suits your needs!
Kristin Addis is a solo female travel expert who inspires women to travel the world in an authentic and adventurous way. A former investment banker who sold all of her belongings and left California in 2012, Kristin has solo traveled the world for over four years, covering every continent (except for Antarctica, but it’s on her list). There’s almost nothing she won’t try and almost nowhere she won’t explore. You can find more of her musings at Be My Travel Muse or on Instagram and Facebook.
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
- World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
- Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
- Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)
Need to book your trip?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. The are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.
Charmaine Ng
Been looking for the next place to go travelling solo to after my first experience in London. These are great ideas, bookmarking!
– Charmaine
Kerry
Fantastic list! I am intrigued by Finland. Will definitely go visit! Thank you!
Miki
Berlin especially in New Year 🙂
Suze
I have to agree with you about Iceland, we noticed that everyone left their doors unlocked and how safe it was! Thanks for the other interesting suggestions
Cecilia
Those spotsare very beautiful ! I only know 3 of them but I really want to discover the others 🙂
Karianne
I find it so difficult to imagine travelling on my own. I met my husband when I was 18 and we have travelled together for 13 years!
However, it is something that I would really love to do. I am a diver (and hubby is not) so I have thought many times about doing a week diving holiday / live aboard on my own. Going solo does seem scary – but I’m sure it would be a great adventure!
kristin addis
I meet people who have significant others but still travel alone, or they’ll each go do their own thing for week and then meet back up again and travel together again. I think it’s great to cultivate those other interests and then he can do the same. It’s invigorating if you embrace the solo time 🙂
Linda
If you like diving, Malta could be a great choice. Almost everyone speaks English, except a very few elderly people. It has the lowest crime rate in Europe, terrific food, and if you go on a diving package holiday, you will automatically have people you can hang out with. Cheap flights from most European hubs. The airport is my favorite to date.
Amanda
I discovered Bayfield a couple years ago. Amazing, unexpected place. I hope to spend more time there.
Natalie
Great guide. You list a number of places that weren\’t even on my solo travel radar.
Leah
This is such a great list! I’ve been looking at doing a first solo trip myself and Big Sur seems perfect!
Katie
Great article, would include Australia and NZ as great places too- safe, welcoming, easy to meet new people- thanks for sharing. Solo travel is so incredible, one of the best things I’ve done.
kristin addis
Agreed. Those are both great spots.
Natalie
I’ve traveled solo to a few on the list. I’d like to add a few more places in Argentina and Peru if anyone is interested in visiting these countries
Marilynn Smith
Being from the west coast in the US I would not agree on Big Sur. ThenOregon coast is safe for travel and very beaiutiful by comparison. Many small and nice towns to visit. Big Sur if verynover rated. I think Finland is an excellent choice as is Argentina, good list, thanks for sharing.
M
kristin addis
So many waterfalls and amazing secluded beaches in Big Sur! The whole PCH is awesome
Kaila Yu
Amazing! I’m still way too terrified to travel solo, but these spots are also super epic to visit with friends. Thinking of hitting up Big Sur soon since it’s a super close destination in relation to Los Angeles!
Sarah
Great post! There are a few destinations in here that I would not have considered before so, thanks for sharing 🙂 I completely agree with including Iceland tho…such an amazing country.
Shawna
Honestly, I’d add Jordan to this list for the same reasons as Namibia. In my experience there, the hotels make it easy to arrange private car transfers with other guests (say if you wanted to go from Amman to Petra) so that you save money and don’t make the journey alone.
Peggy
I second El Chalten and Iceland, super easy to travel around and in Iceland most people speak English, so it was so easy to meet people.
Milan Michael
Awesome! I usually travel alone and I love it so much. Am sure this article is gonna help me out a lot.
Aleksey
Say, “Where would you like to ski? Best Vacations Ever offers amazing vacation destinations. Krasnaya Polyana, Sochi, Russia
Lori
Great ideas and concepts!! I can remember my first solo traveling to Belize. What made me take the trip alone? I asked all my friends to join me, and no one could join me. I was just over 50 yo, at the time. I thought about it, deciding that if I wait for someone to join me, my life might be almost over. That was all it took. It was life changing in so many great ways! All my confidence, spirit, and joy was and continues to light higher each experience. “Life is short, so go for it!” Be sure to think smart on your journeys. Girl Power! Happy Trails, LAN
DB
Wow! Very good tips and guidance. Travelling alone is not easy especially if you are a female. But, with knowledge and some research, it can be done.
Huong Giang
Can you write about Vietnamese food? I think it’s a exciting subject for your blog!
Richard Adams
It’s good to see more and more young women packing their bags and heading out for an unpredictable journey. I really liked your list, especially Big Sur and Yllas were pretty smart picks for me. However, I would also like to add New Jersey to the list.
It is an underrated place as far as solo traveling is concerned and provides a completely different kind of experience. The weather in NJ is pleasant, people are friendly and it is safe for women too. If you have not been there yet, I would suggest you do.
Mary
Just came back from a marvelous month in Thailand with a side trip to Cambodia. Was it safe? I never had a problem, I am 68,female and go,alone. I did meet up for a six day group tour with youngsters half my age. I did just fine and the kids were awesome. Women travel well. Just remember, one suitcase is all you need and it should be carry on size. It was hard enuf by the end of my trip,to lug that thing around least of all some huge monster outs thing. Go sleep in a raft house, go play with elephants and do take that sunset boat ride in a wooden long boat. You will live longer and healthier for the wonderful experiences you will have.
Right now I am sitting in a hotel room in LA waiting for my morning flight to Baja, where i live. And I am planning my next trip. How about Great Britain. Funny how you want to see a place but just have. It gotten to it. Now I think it is time to go to,England, the English countryside beckons!
Was I nervous before my last trio? Of. Purse I was, also excited. Was it worth going? Absolutely and than some!
Linda
I will second Thailand as a good place for a woman alone. The people are amazingly helpful and patient with those of us who do not speak the language. I spent a month a couple of years ago, and would go back in a heartbeat. Of course follow the usual protocols when partying, but it is your fellow tourists that are the biggest risk.
Meryam
I love that you’ve recommended outdoorsy destinations as that’s what I’m usually most afraid to explore alone. Odd when you think about it because the biggest threat to me as a solo female traveler is other people…Thanks, Matt 🙂
Brie B
Great list! Usually solo female travel lists are very vanilla with Europe and select Southeast Asia cities, but it was great to see Africa and South America on here especially since I just got back from Patagonia a few days ago and I’m off to Iceland for New Years. Keep up the great articles!
Tim
Fantastic article. My female friend was planning to travel alone and I was actually worried for her. However, your article helps to soothe that anxiety. Thanks for the recommendations.
Rekha
Being a girl traveler, its hard for me to find the destinations that are safe for me, but you have given me many options to visit in the world. From always it is my dream to travel to California because I have heard about its beauty.
Joanna
Mary,
where in Thailand did you go to? Sounds like a lot of fun!
Stine
I am a female solo traveler, and have been so for 7 years. Even after I found my life partner I still travel alone. I cannot see myself not doing it. I´m pretty excited about your recommendations. I found not so many fellow female solo traveler´s fora, so I made the FB page Female Solo Travelers. I want more women to feel safe enough to explore on their own, it´s a huge gift.
Let's Fly Travel
Great guide. You list a number of places that weren\’t even on my solo travel radar.
Leah P
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!
Cristina
Amazing and very useful list! Planning to make this as To-Do List 😉
Sugar Rae
Great list here! I definitely have wanted to visit places by myself. Glad to see there’s a list of good locations to go solo.
Alice Teacake
Aww this list is sweet! I haven’t been to ANY of these destinations but I love what Kristin has to say and you’ve definitely given me some inspiration for 2018. Berlin, Germany is most likely on the cards as I’ll have more time to travel in Europe this year. Thanks Matt!
Netti
These look great! Like another commenter, I would highly recommend New Zealand. Spent a month there on a self-drive trip. Stayed mostly in small B&Bs. Everyone was very friendly and helpful. Safe country too. And just gorgeous. Also love the Pacific Northwest – Seattle & Victoria, Olympic National Park, San Juan Islands, Vancouver Island.
Charlotte
Just wondered about the same picture for Utah and Indonesia? Love your advice about Argentina.
Jo
Great piece. I agree with Nusa penida though it was a bit quite for me personally. But absolutely stunning destination (be careful on the bikes, girls).
Navin Kumar
Awesome! I usually travel alone and I love it so much. Am sure this article is gonna help me out a lot.