Solo female travel is thriving in 2025. Around 45% of women now plan to travel alone, an 8% jump from last year, with searches for “solo female travel” tripling since 2024. This movement reflects freedom, empowerment, and the growing confidence of women to explore the world on their own terms.
This guide highlights 10 of the best solo female travel destinations that blend safety and adventure, helping women rediscover independence while exploring the world confidently.
Why More Women Are Traveling Solo
In 2025, over 75% of all solo travelers are women. This rise stems from several drivers: empowerment, self-discovery, financial independence, and a desire to prioritize joy and self-care over waiting for company.
Supported by technology, online communities, and safer destinations than ever before, solo female travel has transformed from a niche trend into a cultural shift.
How We Chose These Destinations
Curating a list of the “best” solo female travel destinations requires a thoughtful approach. Our selection criteria focused on several key elements:
- Safety: Low crime rates, political stability, and strong infrastructure.
- Accessibility: Reliable public transport and connectivity.
- Local Friendliness: Welcoming cultures with respect for women.
- Solo Activities: Options from nature treks to cultural experiences.
- Community Support: Local networks or solo-friendly lodging.
The Top 10 Solo Female Travel Destinations
1. Iceland
Iceland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, making it an undeniable top choice for solo female travelers. This land of fire and ice offers otherworldly landscapes, from geothermal hot springs and dramatic waterfalls to the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.
The country’s strong commitment to gender equality creates a welcoming and respectful environment, allowing women to explore its natural wonders, like the Golden Circle or the black sand beaches, with complete peace of mind. It’s a perfect place to feel truly connected to nature and your inner self.
✈️ Travel guides:
- Explore the secrets behind the best time to book flights.
2. Japan
Japan is a fascinating blend of ancient tradition and futuristic innovation. Its exceptionally low crime rates, combined with an incredibly polite and respectful culture, make it an ideal destination for women embarking on their first solo journey.
The hyper-efficient public transportation system allows for seamless exploration of bustling cities like Tokyo, serene temples in Kyoto, and picturesque landscapes. From culinary adventures to exploring historic castles and vibrant pop culture, Japan offers a unique and highly secure solo travel experience.
✈️ Travel guides:
3. Portugal
Portugal, with its sun-drenched coasts, historic cities, and delicious cuisine, offers a captivating solo female travel experience. The Portuguese are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, making it easy to feel comfortable and welcomed.
Cities like Lisbon and Porto are incredibly walkable, safe, and rich in culture, offering stunning architecture, Fado music, and vibrant nightlife. Beyond the cities, you can explore charming small towns, vineyards, and beautiful beaches, all with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
✈️ Travel guides:
- Discover Top Hotels and Activities in Lisbon.
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Portugal in 2025.
4. New Zealand
For the woman with an insatiable adventurous spirit, New Zealand is a paradise. This country offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking majestic mountains and exploring pristine fjords to adrenaline-pumping bungee jumping and whitewater rafting.
Known for its breathtaking scenery and incredibly friendly locals, New Zealand has a well-established infrastructure for solo travellers, including numerous hostels and tour operators that make it easy to meet other adventurers and safely explore its diverse landscapes.
✈️ Travel guides:
5. Canada
Canada’s vast and varied landscapes offer something for every solo female traveler, from vibrant, multicultural cities like Vancouver and Toronto to the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains and serene coastal regions.
Renowned for its friendly and inclusive culture, Canada boasts low crime rates and excellent infrastructure. It’s a fantastic destination for solo road tripping, exploring national parks, or enjoying urban adventures, with a strong sense of safety and community wherever you go.
✈️ Travel guides:
6. Thailand
Thailand has long been a popular destination for solo travelers, and for good reason. It’s generally safe for tourists, especially in well-frequented areas, and offers an incredible array of experiences. From the bustling markets of Bangkok to the ancient temples of Chiang Mai and the serene, pristine beaches of the south, there’s endless exploration.
Thailand also offers numerous yoga retreats, cooking classes, and ethical elephant sanctuaries, providing enriching solo activities and opportunities to connect with a thriving solo travel community.
✈️ Travel guides:
- Discover Top Hotels & Activities in Bangkok.
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Thailand in 2025.
7. Costa Rica
Embrace the “Pura Vida” in Costa Rica, a country celebrated for its commitment to nature and sustainable tourism. This Central American gem is a fantastic destination for solo female travellers seeking eco-adventures, wildlife encounters, and wellness-focused experiences.
Explore lush rainforests, zip-line through canopies, surf on beautiful beaches, or simply relax in a yoga retreat. The welcoming locals and strong emphasis on natural conservation create a safe and harmonious environment for independent exploration.
✈️ Travel guides:
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
8. Slovenia
Often described as Europe’s hidden gem, Slovenia is a compact country that packs a punch with its stunning natural beauty and incredible safety. Nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic, it offers diverse landscapes from picturesque lakes (Lake Bled is a must-see!) to majestic mountains and charming cities like Ljubljana.
Its excellent infrastructure, low crime rates, and abundance of outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for independent exploration, whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
✈️ Travel guides:
- Find out How to Pay for Flights with Cryptocurrencies.
- Check out 13 Tips for Group Flight Bookings for Stress-Free Travel.
9. Ireland
The Emerald Isle is renowned for its enchanting landscapes, rich history, and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. Ireland is an excellent choice for solo female travelers, offering a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at home.
Explore ancient castles, dramatic coastlines like the Cliffs of Moher, and vibrant cities with lively pub scenes where you can enjoy traditional music and meet friendly locals. The compact nature of the country also makes it easy to navigate and explore independently.
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for the United Kingdom in 2025.
10. Australia
Australia offers an incredible mix of vibrant urban experiences, breathtaking natural wonders, and a robust traveler infrastructure, making it a fantastic destination for solo female adventurers. Its major cities, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, are very safe and offer a wide range of cultural activities, dining, and entertainment.
Beyond the cities, you can explore stunning coastlines, iconic landmarks, and unique wildlife, all supported by a well-trodden backpacker and solo travel network that makes meeting people and organizing adventures straightforward.
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Australia in 2025.
Essential Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers
While these destinations are chosen for their safety, smart travel practices are always key to a rewarding solo journey:
- Stay Connected: Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Consider carrying a portable charger and a local SIM card.
- Research Local Customs: Understand cultural norms, especially regarding dress codes or social interactions, to ensure respectful and comfortable experiences.
- Trust Your Intuition: If a situation or person feels off, listen to your gut and remove yourself from it.
- Share Your Itinerary: Use apps or simply email loved ones your daily plans and accommodation details.
- Use Well-Reviewed Accommodations: Prioritize hostels or hotels with strong security measures and positive reviews from other solo female travelers.
- Blend In: Avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself with flashy jewelry or overtly touristy behavior.
Empowering Experiences to Try Alone
Solo travel isn’t just about seeing places; it’s about what you do in them. These experiences can significantly boost confidence and foster deeper connections:
- Join a Yoga or Wellness Retreat: A fantastic way to connect with yourself and like-minded individuals in a serene setting.
- Participate in Volunteer Programs: Give back to the local community and gain unique insights into the culture.
- Embark on Adventure Tours: Group tours for hiking, diving, or safaris are excellent for meeting people and safely experiencing thrilling activities.
- Take Local Workshops: Learn a new skill, like cooking traditional cuisine, crafting, or a local language, fostering cultural immersion and connection.
💡 Travala Tip: Check out Travala’s list of top activities for solo female explorers!
How to Book Your Solo Trip on Travala
Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal town, desert escape, tropical island, or bustling city, Travala makes it easy to find the best destinations to visit as a solo female traveler.
With access to over 3 million travel products worldwide, Travala allows you to easily find the perfect hotels, flights, and activities for your budget-friendly trip, all on a single platform.
Travala also offers unrivaled payment flexibility, enabling you to book travel with over 100 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, as well as stablecoins like USDT and USDC. Book today and explore more destinations to visit during spring!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the safest solo female travel destinations in 2025?
For the safest solo female travel destinations in 2025, look for countries with low crime rates, excellent tourist infrastructure, and a welcoming culture. Top recommendations often include:
- Iceland & Norway (Nordic Countries): Consistently rank highest globally for safety and gender equality.
- Japan: Known for its incredibly low crime rate and efficient public transport, making it ideal for solo navigation.
- New Zealand & Australia: Safe, easy to get around, and highly popular on the backpacker trail, making it simple to meet other travelers.
- Portugal (e.g., Lisbon, Porto): Praised for its friendly locals and relaxed, easygoing atmosphere, especially in city centers.
- Southeast Asian Hubs (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Bali, Indonesia): While general travel caution is advised, these areas have well-trodden ‘backpacker routes’ with strong infrastructure and communities of solo travelers, providing safety in numbers.
Q: How do you choose a destination as a first-time solo traveler?
The best strategy for a first-time solo traveler is to choose a destination that minimizes stress and maximizes ease of experience. Focus on these criteria:
- Safety & Comfort: Pick a country that consistently ranks as safe for women (see above).
- Ease of Communication: Select a place where your native language (or a widely spoken one like English) is common. This simplifies navigation and seeking help.
- Well-Established Tourist Infrastructure: Look for good public transportation, clear signage, and a variety of accommodation options (especially hostels with good safety records/lockers).
- Plenty of Activities: Choose a location with numerous tours, classes (like cooking or language), or group activities. This ensures you have built-in opportunities to socialize and prevents feelings of loneliness.
- Proximity/Familiarity (Optional): Starting with a shorter trip in a nearby city or country can build confidence before a major international journey.
Q: Which countries are known for being female-friendly?
Countries considered highly female-friendly typically have strong commitments to gender equality, excellent social security, and low-risk environments. The Nordic countries frequently top lists:
- Iceland: Often ranked #1 globally for gender equality for over a decade.
- Norway, Finland, Sweden, and Denmark: Known for progressive policies, strong women’s rights, and a culture of respect and low social friction.
- Other Highly Rated Countries: Consider Switzerland, New Zealand, Canada, and Ireland, which also score well on global safety and peace indexes, contributing to a welcoming environment for women.
Q: How can solo travelers stay safe and confident abroad?
Solo female travelers can boost their safety and confidence with proactive planning and smart habits:
- Trust Your Instincts (Gut Feeling): If a situation or person feels wrong, remove yourself immediately. This is your most important safety tool.
- Smart Accommodation & Transport: Book reputable accommodation (look for good reviews from other solo women). Use licensed taxis or trusted ride-sharing apps, especially at night.
- Conceal Valuables: Use cross-body bags, wear a subtle money belt, and avoid flashing expensive items like phones or cameras in crowded areas.
- Stay Connected: Purchase a local SIM card with data upon arrival. Share your itinerary and daily location (e.g., using a live location app) with a trusted friend or family member back home.
- Blend In: Observe local customs regarding dress and behavior to avoid unwanted attention. Walk with purpose and avoid looking lost (check your map privately before setting off).
- Secure Documents/Money: Keep copies of your passport, visas, and insurance digitally and in a separate physical location from the originals. Split up your cash and bank cards.
Q: What types of trips offer empowerment and connection?
Empowering trips for solo travelers are those that encourage personal challenge and provide built-in opportunities for connection. These are often grouped experiences:
- Group Tours: Small, organized group tours (e.g., adventure, cultural, or trekking tours) are a great way to meet like-minded travelers and provide the safety net of a CEO/local guide. Look for companies with no single-supplement policies.
- Wellness & Retreats: Yoga, meditation, or fitness retreats offer deep self-reflection, personal growth, and a ready-made community of supportive individuals.
- Skills-Based Trips: Joining a cooking class, language course, or volunteering program immerses you in the local culture while giving you a shared purpose with new friends.
- Adventure Travel: Trekking, cycling, or climbing trips push your boundaries, fostering a huge sense of achievement and self-reliance (empowerment).
Q: How does Travala support solo female travelers?
While Travala is a leading travel booking platform known for accepting crypto and offering competitive pricing, its support for solo female travelers is primarily through its platform features that enhance security and flexibility:
- Accommodation Variety: Travala offers over 2.2 million hotel and accommodation options, allowing solo female travelers to choose properties with excellent safety ratings and preferred amenities (e.g., 24/7 front desk, secure access).
- 24/7 Customer Support: Their customer support team is available around the clock via live chat and email to assist with any booking issues or emergencies, providing peace of mind.
- Best Price Guarantee and Rewards: The platform’s commitment to low prices and the AVA Smart Program allows solo travelers to manage their budget effectively, a key aspect of comfortable solo travel.
Flexible Payment Options: Accepting both traditional payment methods and over 100 cryptocurrencies gives travelers financial flexibility while abroad.
