The 7 Best Places for Women to Travel Solo

When you need a trip that guarantees full, unadulterated relaxation, Iceland ticks all the boxes. Head to the Retreat at the Blue Lagoon for rest and rejuvenation at its subterranean spa and hot springs. Elsewhere on this intoxicating island, stay at Torfhús Retreat for a sustainable approach to luxury and wellness, coupled with adventure activities such as horse riding, rafting and glacier tours.

Scandinavia, with a reputation as the cool part of Europe (quite literally), is an uncomplicated and friendly place to travel. Sweden ranks first on the EU Gender Equality Index, making it an ideal destination for solo female travellers. Two capitals, Sweden’s Stockholm and Denmark’s Copenhagen are known for their accessible centres, allowing solo travellers a chance to explore freely. Food is a highlight and there are plenty of gastro-focussed walking tours to join. Take a cruise along Copenhagen’s canal followed by a visit to the freetown of Christiania. 

New Zealand might just be the place that has it all: small, friendly cities; outstanding natural beauty; wholesome, organic food; an abundance of culture; active adventures; and countless wellness and relaxation opportunities.

It’s hard to convey just how broad and diverse India is, each state comparable in culture and cuisine to that of an entire country – making it a truly inspiring destination to visit. Two of the best places for solo trips for women here are rural Rajasthan and the peaceful backwaters of Kerala, for their laidback atmosphere and stunning hotels. 

There’s a distinct difference in the regional cuisine in each location too: try the spicy lal maas – a typical Rajasthani meat-based dish – at Jawai, and health-focussed seafood dishes at Carnoustie. While travelling in India we recommend dressing for comfort in modest, loose-fitting clothing.

The sheer size of Chile, stretching 4000 miles (6000 kilometres) along South America’s western coast – where land meets the Pacific Ocean – makes it a country of beautiful contrasts. Teal lakes, lush forest and soaring granite peaks meet in Torres del Paine, flamingos soar across lagoons set close to stretching sands in Atacama Desert and snow-capped volcanoes look down on glacial lakes and fertile farmland in The Lake District.  

Coming face-to-face with majestic gorillas in Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one that is surprisingly accessible as a solo traveller. Start in the country’s capital, Kigali, with a visit to the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre for an insight into the culture and history of the community (with profits going towards community initiatives).

Adventures in Rwanda don’t stop here; Akagera National Park offers a classic big five safari experience. We highly recommend a stay at Wilderness Magashi Camp, a luxury safari camp overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga with daily game drives and boat safaris. To complete your primate experience, travel south for a chance to see chimpanzees in Rwanda’s flourishing Nyungwe National Park. Stay at the One&Only Nyungwe House for contemporary comfort surrounded by ancient forests.

Kenya is well known as one of the best African safari destinations, with many chances to see the big five. In the vast Maasai Mara National Park iconic species are abundant and, during July and August there’s the chance to witness dramatic river crossings of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Little Governors’ Camp will get you close to the action, however if you plan to visit during the high season (June to September) you will need to book accommodation well in advance.

For the ultimate beach and safari combination, why not continue your Kenyan adventure into Tanzania and the tropical island of Zanzibar. Here, shady palms and white sands deliver a little slice of paradise. As far as solo trips for women go, we think this combination is hard to beat.