Attention solo female travelers! Are you yearning for adventure but concerned about safety? Imagine exploring vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and rich cultures while feeling secure and empowered.
Our curated list of 15 safest destinations for 2024 offers just that. Japan combines tradition and technology. Iceland offers stunning beauty. Both places will inspire your travel dreams and lift your spirits.
Don’t let fear stop you. Explore how these places welcome female solo travelers. They offer amazing experiences in safe settings. Ready to embark on your next solo journey?
Discover 15 safe and inspiring places for solo female travelers in 2024. These destinations offer adventure, culture, and a strong sense of security. They will empower your solo travel experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Japan, Iceland, and New Zealand top the list for safety and unique experiences
- Many European countries like Finland, Portugal, and Switzerland offer safe urban adventures
- Southeast Asian destinations like Singapore and Thailand provide cultural richness with good safety records
- Always research and stay aware of your surroundings, regardless of the destination
- Consider travel insurance for added peace of mind in your favorite destination
Are you a woman dreaming of exploring the world on your own? You’re not alone!
More and more women are embracing solo travel, seeking adventure, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences. But safety is always a top concern. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with this list of the 15 safest destinations for solo female travelers in 2024.
1. Japan: A Blend of Tradition and Technology
Japan is like stepping into another world – one where ancient temples sit next to futuristic skyscrapers. A great choice for solo female travelers exists. The country is safe and has low crime rates. A lot to see and do exists.
Why Japan is Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Extremely low crime rates
- Friendly and helpful locals
- Amazing public transportation (always on time!)
- Unique culture and delicious food
In busy cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, you can visit lively markets, quiet gardens, and modern stores all in one day. Fear not about losing your way. English signage is frequently available in areas popular with tourists. Many Japanese people are happy to help if you need directions.
If you’re new to solo travel, check out our Top 10 Destinations for First-Time Solo Travelers for more great ideas!
2. Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice
Iceland is like something out of a fairy tale. Imagine seeing the Northern Lights dance across the sky, relaxing in natural hot springs, and walking on black sand beaches. A nature lover’s paradise and a perfect destination for those seeking safety and adventure!
What Makes Iceland Special:
- One of the safest countries in the world
- Breathtaking natural wonders and exciting sights
- Friendly locals who often speak English
- Easy to get around (even if you don’t want to drive)
The capital city, Reykjavik, is small but full of cool art, yummy restaurants, and fun bars. A great base for taking day trips to see waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes exists. Just remember to pack warm clothes – Iceland can be chilly even in summer!
3. New Zealand: Adventure in Middle-earth
If you loved “The Lord of the Rings” movies, you’ll feel like you’re living in them when you visit New Zealand. This country is ideal for outdoor lovers and thrill-seekers. Also perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Why New Zealand Rocks for Solo Female Travelers:
- Extremely safe with low crime rates.
- Stunning landscapes from beaches to mountains
- Lots of adventure activities (bungee jumping, anyone?)
- Easy to meet other travelers and share personal experiences
Cities like Wellington and Auckland are fun to explore, with great food scenes and interesting museums. But the real magic of New Zealand is in its nature. You can hike through forests, kayak in crystal-clear lakes, and even visit Hobbiton (where they filmed “The Hobbit”)!
Want to save money on your adventures? Check out our Money-Saving Travel Tips guide!
4. Canada: Friendly Faces and Wide-Open Spaces
Canada is like the friendly neighbor everyone wishes they had. It’s enormous, encompassing everything from sprawling urban areas to expansive wild territories. People recognize Canadians for their friendly demeanor and hospitable attitude towards guests. This makes Canada a great place for solo travelers.
What’s Great About Canada:
- Very safe, especially in major cities
- Diverse landscapes and cultures
- Excellent healthcare system (just in case you need travel insurance)
- Easy to communicate (English and French are official languages)
You could spend weeks exploring cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal, each with its own unique vibe. Or head out into nature to see places like Banff National Park, with its turquoise lakes and snow-capped mountains. Just watch out for bears if you go hiking!
5. Finland: Northern Lights and Midnight Sun
Finland is like a winter wonderland, but it’s awesome in summer too! It’s one of the safest countries in Europe. It also has some of the happiest people in the world. What’s not to love?
Finland’s Solo Travel Highlights:
- Super safe with exceptionally low crime rates.
- Unique experiences like seeing the Northern Lights
- Beautiful nature and clean cities
- Saunas everywhere (it’s part of Finnish culture!)
Helsinki, the capital, is a cool mix of old and new. You can visit modern design shops, then step back in time at the old market hall. In summer, the sun barely sets, giving you lots of time to explore. In winter, you might see the Northern Lights dancing in the sky!
6. Australia: Sun, Surf, and Friendly Faces
G’day, mate! Australia is a huge country with something for everyone. From world-famous beaches to the vast Outback, it’s an adventure waiting to happen.
Why Australia is Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Generally extremely safe, especially in cities and tourist areas.
- Laid-back, friendly culture
- Amazing wildlife (kangaroos and koalas!)
- English-speaking (with some fun Aussie slang)
Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are modern and multicultural, with great food, art, and nightlife. But don’t miss the chance to explore the natural wonders, like the Great Barrier Reef or Uluru (Ayers Rock). Just remember to wear sunscreen – the Aussie sun is strong!
Planning a longer trip? Learn How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip in a Carry-On to save on baggage fees!
7. Portugal: Sunshine, History, and Pastéis de Nata
Portugal is like a hidden gem that’s not so hidden anymore. It’s becoming super popular with travelers, and for good reason! It’s a safe destination, beautiful, and way cheaper than many other European countries.
What Makes Portugal Special:
- Very safe for solo travelers with low rates of petty crime
- Gorgeous beaches and historic cities
- Delicious food (try the pastéis de nata – yum!)
- Easy to get around by train or bus
Lisbon and Porto are must-visit cities, with their colorful buildings, old trams, and amazing viewpoints. But don’t miss the smaller towns and beaches along the coast. And if you like wine, the Douro Valley is paradise!
8. Singapore: A Clean, Green City-State
Singapore is like stepping into the future, but with lots of nature mixed in. It’s a tiny country that packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do.
Singapore’s Solo Travel Perks:
- One of the safest cities in the world
- Super clean and easy to get around
- Amazing food from many cultures
- Lots of green spaces in the city
You can go from high-tech attractions like the Gardens by the Bay to traditional hawker centers serving cheap and delicious food. Don’t let the opportunity to taste Singapore’s renowned chili crab slip away! Despite being a bustling metropolis, it boasts a plethora of parks and nature sanctuaries for you to discover.
9. Switzerland: Mountains, Chocolate, and Punctuality
Switzerland is like a postcard come to life. Picture snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and cute villages with flower-covered chalets. One of the safest countries in the world is also yours.
Why Switzerland is Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Extremely safe with some of the lowest crime rates in Europe.
- Stunning natural beauty and exciting sights
- Efficient public transportation
- High quality of life (but it can be expensive)
Cities like Zurich and Geneva are modern and multicultural, but still have lots of old-world charm. And the Swiss Alps are a playground for outdoor lovers, whether you like hiking, skiing, or just taking in the views. Don’t forget to indulge in some Swiss chocolate and cheese!
Looking for luxury on a budget? Check out our guide to Luxury Destinations You Didn’t Know You Could Afford!
10. Thailand: Temples, Beaches, and Smiles
Thailand is often called the “Land of Smiles,” and for good reason! The people are super friendly, and there’s so much to see and do. A great place to start for exploring Southeast Asia.
Thailand’s Solo Travel Highlights:
- Generally safe, especially in tourist areas
- Beautiful beaches and islands
- Rich culture and delicious food
- Good value for money
Bangkok is a crazy, exciting city with temples, markets, and amazing street food. But don’t miss the chance to relax on beautiful beaches in the south or explore the mountains and temples in the north. Chiang Mai is a favorite destination for many travelers, with its laid-back vibe and cultural attractions.
11. Costa Rica: Pura Vida in Paradise
“Pura Vida” is Costa Rica’s motto, and it means “pure life” or “simple life.” This small country is abundant in natural beauty and eco-friendly attitudes.
What’s Great About Costa Rica:
- Safer than many other Central American countries
- Amazing biodiversity (sloths, monkeys, toucans!)
- Beautiful beaches on two coasts
- Lots of adventure activities
You can zip-line through the rainforest, surf on beautiful beaches, or relax in hot springs near volcanoes. The capital, San Jose, is worth a visit, but the real magic of Costa Rica is in its natural areas. Just prepare for some rain if you visit during the wet season!
12. Slovenia: Europe’s Hidden Gem
Slovenia is like a little bit of everything good about Europe packed into one small country. You can find mountains, lakes, beaches, and charming cities there, all without the overwhelming throngs of more famous destinations.
Slovenia’s Solo Travel Perks:
- Extremely safe with low crime rates.
- Beautiful and diverse landscapes
- Friendly locals and good English speakers
- Good value compared to Western Europe
Ljubljana, the capital, is like a fairy tale city with a castle on a hill and a river running through it. But don’t miss Lake Bled, with its island church and mountain backdrop. One of the most beautiful places in Europe!
Want to stay connected while traveling? Check out our guide to 12 Essential Travel Apps to make your trip easier!
13. Ecuador: Small Country, Exciting Adventures
Ecuador might be small, but it packs in a lot of diversity. From the Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest to the Galapagos Islands, there’s so much to explore!
Why Ecuador is Great for Solo Female Travelers:
- Generally safe, especially in tourist areas
- Incredible biodiversity
- Rich indigenous culture
- Good value for money
Quito, the capital, sits high in the Andes and has a beautiful old town to explore. The real adventures are outside the city. You can hike up volcanoes, see rare animals in the Amazon, or visit the unique Galapagos Islands. Just be aware of your surroundings in densely populated cities, like you would anywhere.
14. Greece (Milos): Island Paradise Without the Crowds
Greece is famous for its islands, but some can get exceedingly crowded. Milos is a bit off the beaten path, which makes it perfect for solo travelers who want a more relaxed vibe.
What Makes Milos Special:
- Safer and quieter than party islands
- Beautiful beaches and clear water
- Interesting rock formations and landscapes
- Authentic Greek island experience
Milos has some of the most unique beaches in Greece, like Sarakiniko with its moon-like white rocks. You can explore little fishing villages, eat fresh seafood, and soak up the laid-back island life. It’s a great place to recharge and enjoy the beauty of the Greek islands.
15. Ireland: Green Hills and Warm Welcomes
Ireland is famous for its friendly people, and that makes it a great place for solo travelers. It’s like stepping into a world of green hills, ancient castles, and cozy pubs.
Ireland’s Solo Travel Highlights:
- Very safe, especially outside big cities
- Beautiful landscapes and historic sites
- Friendly locals who love to chat
- Rich culture of music and storytelling
Dublin is a fun city to explore, with its literary history and lively pub scene. But don’t miss the chance to explore the countryside – places like the Cliffs of Moher or the Ring of Kerry are breathtakingly beautiful. And if you’re feeling brave, you can even kiss the Blarney Stone for good luck!
For more unique travel experiences, check out our list of 15 Incredible Travel Spots in 2024!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the safest place to travel as a solo female?
While safety can vary, countries like Japan, Iceland, and New Zealand consistently rank high for solo female travelers. These locations provide secure environments with minimal crime, dependable public transit, and societies that value women. It’s crucial to note that numerous elements can influence safety. These include specific places in a country and your travel habits.
What is the safest island for solo female travelers?
Milos, Greece, stands out as one of the safest islands for solo female travelers. It offers a perfect blend of safety, beautiful landscapes, and authentic Greek culture.
Unlike some crowded Greek islands, Milos offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. This makes it perfect for solo exploration. Other safe island options include Bali in Indonesia and Malta in the Mediterranean.
Is female solo travelling safe?
Yes, female solo travel can be safe if you take the right precautions. Many women travel alone safely every year. The key is to research your destination well.
Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Use common-sense safety measures. It also helps to connect with other female travelers or local women’s groups for advice and support.
What is the safest country for a woman in the world?
Many people often view Iceland as one of the safest countries for women. It ranks high in global peace and gender equality. Other safe countries for women include New Zealand, Canada, and Nordic countries like Norway and Finland.
However, safety can vary within countries. It is always a good idea to stay alert and aware.
Is the United States a safe destination for solo female travelers?
The United States can be a safe place for women traveling alone. This is especially true in big cities and popular tourist spots.
However, like any large country, safety can vary depending on the specific location. It’s important to research your chosen destinations in the US. Stay aware of your surroundings and follow basic safety tips. Many solo female travelers have positive experiences exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures of the United States.
Remember, solo travel can be an amazing experience that helps you grow and learn about yourself. Stay safe, be open to new experiences, and most importantly – have fun!