20 Unexpectedly Awesome Destinations for Solo Female Travelers
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:
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
…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?
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