10 Best Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Morocco is one of the rare destinations that lives up to its photographic reputation, with colorful architecture, relaxing fountains, and a culture that carries on centuries-old traditions.

Moroccans offer a feeling of inclusivity, with women wearing Western-style clothing alongside those in more traditional attire all shopping in lively old cities. Enjoy the architectural features of Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca or stroll through the crowds of storytellers and food vendors in Marrakech. Ride a camel over the dunes in the Sahara or wander the maze-like lanes of the Medina in Fez.

Morocco has fascinating treks in the Mid-Atlas Mountains, refreshing beaches bordering the Atlantic seaboard, and wineries growing grapes, olives, and nuts in the lush valleys for an enticing and comfortable discovery of North Africa.

Safety tip: Avoid soccer stadiums if not with another person or group, especially if the local team loses.

Learn more: Morocco Travel Guide • Morocco Tours and Vacations

Travelers of all types continue to visit Greece in search of ancient Western Civilization and sensational beaches spread across the Aegean, Ionian, and Thracian Seas. Many women feel safe traveling alone in Greece due to the relatively low crime rate.

While petty thefts and other types of crimes do occur, they mostly happen at island party resorts. The most significant nuisance is the kamaki, smooth-talking, persistent men named after the “fishing trident”. They are a hassle, but not a threat, as most Greeks treat women travelers with respect.

Immerse yourself in charming neighborhood restaurants and island-hop in search of marvelous sunsets along relaxing shorelines. Visit the ninth-century rock churches at Meteora or revel in the charms of the Island of Hydra, trek through the canyons of Crete or chase the Oracle at Delphi.

Learn more: Greece Travel Guide • Greece Tours and Vacations

Thailand welcomes tourists searching for the white-sand beaches of the south and the sprawling jungles of the north.

The country has nearly perfected the ease of crisscrossing it, whether by bus, plane, or ferry, so you can enjoy the many experiences it offers. Violent crime is rare against foreigners and petty thieves generally focus on inebriated backpackers.

Whether appreciating the gigantic reclining Buddha at the Royal Palace complex in Bangkok or learning to scuba dive off the shores of Koh Tao, Thailand caters to your adventurous side, cultural edification, or more tranquil inclinations.

Safety tip: Women are not allowed to touch monks. Do not try to sit next to them or walk beside them for extended periods of time. If you choose to give a monk a donation, place the item on a table or on the ground for the monk to pick up.

Learn more: Thailand Travel Guide • Thailand Tours and Vacations

Like the majority of travel destinations across the world, with proper planning, understanding, and precaution, South Africa is an exceptional destination for solo female travelers interested in quality beaches, enthusiastic culture, and access to unforgettable wildlife.

While you should still take extra care at night, traveling South Africa is an invigorating and rewarding experience. Cape Town has a vibrant atmosphere close to fantastic wineries, stunning beaches, and delicious dining opportunities.

Traverse the diverse ecosystems on countless safari excursions, whether within the boundaries of Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest animal reserves, or in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Park, which hosts one of the world’s largest populations of white rhinos.

Safety tip: Traveling around South Africa long distances can be a challenge, but by planning ahead to gain an understanding of where you want to visit and why, you can easily find the best routes between destinations to avoid getting lost or stuck.

Learn more: South Africa Travel Guide • South Africa Safaris

The fascinating natural marvels of Iceland are as welcoming as the culture. The country is nicknamed the Land of Fire and Ice, with frost covering 15 percent of the landscape and more than 20 active volcanoes rumbling at any given moment.

The country as a whole has some of the world’s lowest crime rates, adding to the feeling of comfort, from the bustling nightlife of Reykjavik to the flickering Northern Lights. Coastlines boast imposing black basalt rock formations, flowers grow from stone terraces at the waterfalls at Fimmvorduhals, and the glacial glow of icebergs reflects off the blue waters of Jokulsarlon.

The majestic scenery is only complemented by the fact that Iceland has, according to the Global Gender Gap Index, achieved the accolade of best country for gender equality for nine years in a row.

Learn more: Iceland Travel Guide • Iceland Tours and Vacations

Diverse, and balancing futuristic with traditional heritage, Japan is friendly and locals are helpful, even eager to offer support in the form of directions, while respecting your privacy.

Osaka has a delicate charm emerging from culinary delights. Ancient Kyoto blends the fascinating stories of Imperial Japan with the quiet beauty of the surrounding alpine landscape. The Kumano Kodo trail network follows the pilgrimage route used between the eighth and 12th centuries, connecting forests, fields, towns, ancient shrines, and temples.

Whether looking for a quiet alternative to the lively streets of bigger cities or interested in a welcoming pottery district and soothing hot springs, Japan has an eclectic mixture of exciting opportunities. Female-only accommodations are also accessible around the country.

Learn more: Japan Travel Guide • Japan Tours and Vacations

New Zealand features remarkable scenery across its two main islands and is very safe for any type of traveler, including solo females.

The North Island consists of geysers, volcanoes, idyllic beaches, and picturesque lakes, while the South Island contains snowcapped peaks, shimmering glaciers, and frigid ocean waters that are home to seals and whales. The allure invokes the fantastical world of Tolkien’s Middle-earth at Hobbiton and an adventurous spirit with visitors bungee jumping and skydiving in Queenstown.

Cruise ships glide between the towering coastal mountains of Milford Sound and ferries crisscross Auckland’s harbors. Snowboard, wine taste, whitewater raft, walk on a glacier, bask in thermal baths, or learn about Maori culture in the welcoming environment.

Learn more: New Zealand Travel Guide • New Zealand Tours and Vacations

Croatia is a great destination for solo female travelers eager to find some of the most photogenic places, while feeling safe, comfortable, and inspired.

The easy transportation infrastructure and national understanding of international tourism help make Croatia a fantastic destination to visit, in addition to its low violent crime rate.

The country is the embodiment of a Mediterranean escape, with medieval towns, turquoise waters, and gorgeous islands that look back at mainland forests and rolling hills. As one of the few destinations that can accommodate any kind of traveler, from gastronomes to adventurers, history enthusiasts to beach-lovers, Croatia provides one of the safest environments in the world for solo female travelers.

Learn more: Croatia Travel Guide • Croatia Tours and Vacations

Chile is an exciting country to visit for any kind of traveler, but offers a comfortable, reliable, and safe environment for solo female travelers. Large cities like Santiago and Valparaiso may have reputations, but in reality they are as safe as any other large city in the world. Common sense plays a large role in individual safety across the country.

Within Chile it is easy to reach alternative destinations beyond the large cities, but due to the incredible length of the country, this requires either hours-long ground transportation or short flights.

Chile is not just safe, but a scenic marvel that can immerse you in the splendors of Patagonia or set you beneath the wonderful starlight of the Atacama Desert, connect you to the fascinating Moai of Easter Island or act as the starting point to an Antarctica expedition.

Safety tip: English is widely spoken across Chile, but not necessarily everywhere. Depending on your itinerary, it is best to know helpful phrases in Spanish, have a particular understanding of the language, or know local landmarks in case you need directions.

Learn more: Chile Travel Guide • Chile Tours and Vacations

Costa Rica is a very safe country, with people who are not only friendly, but also happy to help others if they are in need. Visiting as a solo female traveler can give you insight into the sensational eco-friendly destination, while taking advantage of the easy infrastructure that connects the diverse regions, microclimates, and activities.

Travel can seem intimidating in Costa Rica at first, but many locals speak English and visitors from around the world often enjoy extended stays for immersive language courses to improve their Spanish. Certain areas across the country see typical issues of petty crime, but these areas and issues are easily avoided.

From visiting sea turtle nesting grounds in Tortuguero to relaxing on a tropical beach in Manuel Antonio National Park, trekking the trails of the Osa Peninsula in search of spider monkeys or practicing yoga on a private deck in a cloud forest, Costa Rica is a majestic, safe, and easily navigable place.

Learn more: Costa Rica Travel Guide • Costa Rica Tours and Vacations

The most important consideration when traveling alone is always safety. The following precautions will help to keep you secure.

• Carry the business card of your accommodation so you can show it to a cab driver.
• Keep a decoy wallet on hand with some small bills you wouldn't mind losing.
• Carry a deterrent. Mace may not be legal in all the countries you visit, in which case carry a mini hairspray or bug spray.
• Get the lay of the land. Start with a walking tour so you settle in while getting to know specific landmarks in relation to one another.
• Only take official taxis or use a ridesharing app if available. Most official transportation vehicles will have markings.
• Download a safety app that helps you check-in, call for help in case of emergency, and in some cases immediately start filming if you need to document a situation.

When traveling alone you have the freedom to move at your own pace, visit the sites you wish to see, and linger in a single destination for as long as you want.

The right research and understanding as a solo female traveler can alleviate many of the concerns you may face during the travel process.

Whether you wish to enjoy an adventure or explore a tropical island, a customizable trip with Zicasso will take you to your dream destination, while providing a safe and comfortable environment.