One of the biggest benefits of solo travel is the opportunity to meet new people from all over the world. This can help you build confidence and social skills as you navigate new cultures and languages. Moreover, traveling alone as a woman can help you discover your true self. When you’re away from the familiar comforts of home, you’re forced to confront your fears, step out of your comfort zone, and learn to rely on your own instincts and abilities. This can lead to a greater sense of self-awareness and personal growth.
Of course, traveling alone as a woman can also present some unique challenges and safety concerns. It’s important to take precautions, such as educating yourself about your destination, staying aware of your surroundings, and trusting your intuition. But with proper planning and preparation, solo travel can be a rewarding and empowering experience that will leave you with memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.
To help you do that, I’ll explore the safest cities for solo female travelers on every continent.
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Tokyo, Japan
- Kigali, Rwanda
- Wellington, New Zealand
- Montevideo, Uruguay
- Montreal, Canada
- Plan The Perfect Solo Trip
Reykjavik, Iceland (Europe)
Reykjavik, Iceland, is a stunning and safe destination perfect for solo female travelers. As Iceland has repeatedly been voted the top country in the world for gender equality, women in Iceland feel very safe and enjoy a high degree of personal freedom. This is not to say that Iceland is perfect and crimes against women do not occur, but considering that Iceland has also been voted the most peaceful country, a woman traveling alone can feel quite safe. In fact, violent crimes are extremely rare in Iceland and even petty crimes are relatively uncommon.
Another reason why Reykjavik is such a great destination for solo female travelers is the welcoming and friendly locals. Icelanders are known for being warm, friendly, and welcoming, which can make a big difference when traveling alone. Icelanders are proud of their country and culture and love to share it with visitors. Whether you are lost and in need of directions or simply looking for a good place to eat, the locals in Reykjavik are always willing to help.
In fact, Icelanders are so friendly and approachable that you may even find yourself making new friends during your trip. It’s not uncommon for solo female travelers to be invited to join in on local activities, such as hiking or attending a music festival. Reykjavik not only offers a safe and welcoming atmosphere but also plenty of fascinating activities for solo female travelers.
From Reykjavik’s art galleries and museums to a day trip to taking in the breathtaking landscapes of Thingvellir National Park or relaxing in the geothermal Blue Lagoon, these are just some of the popular activities you can engage in.
Download my free Iceland Destination Guide now and get insider tips on the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Iceland.
Tokyo, Japan (Asia)
Japan, and Tokyo in particular, is known for having one of the lowest crime rates in the world. This is due in part to the country’s culture of respect for the persons and property of others, which makes it unlikely that a traveler’s belongings will be stolen. Tokyo’s police force is also highly efficient and responsive, providing a reassuring presence in the event of an incident.
In addition to its low crime rate, Tokyo also has a very efficient public transportation system that makes it easy for travelers to get around safely. The city’s train stations are heavily secured, with guards stationed at each terminal and CCTV cameras on board. Cabs are also a safe and reliable mode of transportation, and many are equipped with GPS tracking systems.
Local residents in Tokyo are known for their friendliness and courtesy to visitors. Many Japanese people speak English and are eager to help tourists with directions or recommendations. Those who don’t are more than willing to pull out their smartphone and translate Japanese to English to give you directions or information. This makes it easy for female solo travelers to find their way around the city and feel safe while doing so.
When it comes to accommodations, there are a variety of options in Tokyo that are safe for female travelers that offer an upscale experience. Most hotels have security measures such as CCTV cameras and a 24-hour front desk to ensure the safety of their guests.
For female travelers who prefer a more private experience, Tokyo also has several women-only spaces. Women-only train carriages are also available during peak hours, while women-only hotels offer amenities such as female-only floors, lounges and bathrooms.
When it comes to nightlife, Tokyo has a vibrant scene that is generally safe for female travelers. Most venues have security staff, and it’s normal for Japanese women to go out alone. However, it is still important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Overall, Tokyo is one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in the continent of Asia for female travelers. Women traveling alone can explore the city’s bustling streets, visit traditional temples and shrines, and enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine without worrying about their safety.
Kigali, Rwanda (Africa)
Rwanda is widely considered one of the safest countries in Africa and a welcoming destination for solo female travelers. This is immediately apparent upon arrival in the relaxed and charming capital city of Kigali. The government has made security a top priority, and there is a visible police presence in many parts of the city. Community safety initiatives, such as community policing programs and street lighting projects, help promote a safe and secure environment for residents and visitors alike.
Rwanda is also known for being one of the most progressive countries in Africa when it comes to gender equality. The culture is conducive to women’s empowerment, and women in Kigali are generally treated with respect and can move freely around the city without fear of harassment or discrimination.
In addition to being safe, Kigali has a well-developed public transportation system that is safe and affordable. Solo female travelers can use buses or cabs to navigate the city without fear of being targeted by criminals. Ride-sharing services such as Uber are also available in Kigali and provide an additional layer of security.
Rwanda is probably most known for its mountain gorilla safaris and trekking tours. Fortunately, most of these are well-managed and safe for solo female travelers. Moreover, mountain gorillas are gentle giants and conflict with humans is almost unheard of. The park rangers give a briefing before trekking on how to behave around the gorillas.
It is important to note that Rwanda’s history of genocide and civil war may still evoke emotion and sensitivity from locals and visitors alike. It is important to approach these topics with respect and sensitivity and to be aware of local customs and etiquette when traveling in the country.
Wellington, New Zealand (Oceania)
While the feeling of safety can be a luxury in many countries, New Zealanders are habitual to it. In fact, some never lock their homes and others leave the engine running when they get out of the car to go shopping. You will rarely see a New Zealander so anxious that they hold their bag tighter every time they meet someone new. Quite the opposite, even at night, you will find walking around with ease.
This atmosphere is extremely endearing and you will quickly find that there is little to no distrust among them. The capital, Wellington, is one of the safest cities in the island nation. This makes it a great choice for female travelers, especially those who are traveling alone for the first time.
Did you know that New Zealand was the first self-governing country to grant women the right to vote in parliamentary elections? On 19 September 1893 the governor, Lord Glasgow, signed this landmark legislation into law. Yes, for more than a century, women’s rights and gender equality have been a high priority in New Zealand. This translates into a culture of respect for women, where harassment or discrimination is not tolerated.
The city also has a strong sense of community, which means that residents and visitors alike look out for each other. This creates a safe environment where people are more willing to help each other and report any suspicious behavior.
Wellington’s tourism industry is known for its high safety and quality standards, so you can be sure that you will have a great experience during your stay. Whether you are hiking, biking, or exploring the city’s parks and beaches, you can feel safe and secure in your surroundings. As an added advantage, Wellington is also a walkable city, with many attractions and amenities within easy walking distance of each other.
As for nightlife, Wellington has a lively and diverse scene that is generally safe for female travelers. Popular areas include Courtenay Place and Cuba Street, both of which are well-lit and have people out almost every night.
With low crime rates, walkable streets, and a welcoming community, visitors can easily explore the city’s cultural and natural attractions with ease and without safety concerns. Speaking of which, everything I said about Wellington also applies to New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland. Either or both of these cities would be perfect for any solo female traveler.
Montevideo, Uruguay (South America)
South America has suffered a bad reputation in movies and media. Unfortunately, this is why many solo female travelers hesitate to venture into the continent. But this does not have to be the case. Uruguay, for example, is a safe country for solo female travelers, and its capital, Montevideo, is no exception.
The city offers a range of cultural experiences, from museums to street art galleries to markets. In addition to its cultural attractions, Montevideo boasts a vibrant music and theater scene, as well as renowned sports teams and outdoor recreational facilities. Not to be forgotten is La Rambla: a picturesque waterfront promenade that stretches along Montevideo’s coastline and offers beautiful views of the Rio de la Plata.
Unfortunately, the Uruguayan capital does not have a subway system. The best way to get around is to take a cab. Just make sure you use a ride service and do not just hail a cab on the street, especially if you do not speak Spanish.
Another reason Montevideo is a great destination for solo female travelers is the warm nature of the locals. Uruguayans are generally friendly and helpful and happy to strike up a conversation with travelers and offer assistance when needed. As one of the most liberal cities in Latin America, you will feel right at home in no time.
As with any large city, there are areas of Montevideo that you are better off avoiding, especially after dark. During the day, you should be especially wary of pickpockets that target tourists carrying expensive cameras, jewelry, or cell phones. The good thing is that the Uruguayan police are generally reliable and effective, which contributes to a general sense of security.
While South America may have a reputation for being unsafe for solo female travelers, Montevideo, Uruguay is a safe and welcoming destination. With its stable political situation, good infrastructure, friendly locals, and breathtaking ocean line, this is a must-visit destination for any solo female traveler who wants to explore South America.
Montreal, Canada (North America)
Montreal, the largest city in the province of Quebec, is a vibrant and diverse city that is both safe and welcoming for solo female travelers. In fact, according to a 2022 study by Holidu, Montreal was ranked as the safest city in the world for women traveling alone. The city has one of the lowest crime rates in Canada, with violent crimes being particularly rare. This means that women can feel safe walking around the city on their own, even at night.
Montreal’s multiculturalism is one of its greatest strengths and one of the reasons why solo female travelers from all over the world can feel at home in the city. Montreal’s population is a diverse mix of people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, and it is one of the most bilingual cities in Canada, where both French and English are widely spoken.
The city’s multiculturalism is reflected in its vibrant arts and culture scene, with festivals and events celebrating the music, food, and traditions of different cultures. For example, the Montreal International Jazz Festival is the largest jazz festival in the world, and the Montreal International Reggae Festival brings together musicians from Jamaica and other countries to celebrate reggae music and culture.
Other popular events include the Montreal Pride Parade, which celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, and the Festival du Monde Arabe, which showcases the music, art, and culture of the Arab world. Montreal is known not only for its diverse population but also for its strong sense of community.
The city has a close-knit community feel, with friendly locals happy to help visitors find their way around the city or recommend a good restaurant or activity. The city’s neighborhoods all have their own unique character, and exploring can be a great way to learn about the local culture and meet new people. The city is also known for its thriving Airbnb scene, which has many safe options for solo female travelers.
In addition, the city has a network of bike paths and bike rental programs that make it easy to explore the city on two wheels. Whether you want to explore the city’s history and culture or simply soak up its vibrant energy and nightlife, Montreal is a great choice for a solo adventure.
Discover Your Next Adventure & Plan the Ultimate Solo Trip
Women are often discouraged from traveling alone due to concerns about safety. However, this fear can be limiting and hold you back from exploring the world on your own terms. This is unfortunate because solo travel can be an incredibly empowering experience that allows you to discover new cultures, meet new people, and challenge yourself in ways you might not have imagined.
One way to allay any concerns about solo travel is to work with a personal travel consultant. As a bespoke travel concierge, I provide invaluable support in planning a trip, from finding destinations and accommodations to booking flights and arranging tours. You can rest assured that your trip is well-planned and tailored to your specific interests and needs.
Another benefit of working with a travel consultant is access to their expertise and experience. I can provide you with valuable insights and recommendations based on my own travels and the experiences of my solo travel female clients. On top of that, I’ll be a call a way to help you navigate any cultural or logistical challenges that may arise when traveling solo.
Overall, women shouldn’t let their fears stop them from exploring the world on their own. With the help of a personal travel advisor, solo travel can be an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience that offers the chance to discover new perspectives, make meaningful connections, and create unforgettable memories. Get in touch to discuss your next (or first) amazing solo trip!
