Traveling alone is no longer the exception—it has become a growing movement among women of all ages around the world. Whether in search of self-discovery, freedom, or simply the chance to live new experiences without depending on company, more and more travelers are setting off on solo adventures.
According to research in the tourism sector, the number of women traveling alone has risen significantly over the last decade, driven by financial independence, the ease of online planning, and the exchange of experiences on social media.
This type of trip offers unique opportunities to connect with cultures, people, and, above all, with oneself. But it also calls for special attention to safety and planning. In this article, we will explore tips and safe destinations for solo travel for women, so your journey will be not only safe but also unforgettable. After all, the world is far too big to wait for company to go out and explore it.
Why take a solo trip
Traveling alone is much more than a physical journey, it is a transformative experience that can deeply impact the way you see yourself and the world. One of the main benefits of a solo trip for women is personal growth.
This article became far more special than I had planned. I was only going to research and write it, but I ended up researching my friend’s solo trip instead. In direct contact with her via WhatsApp, I received moving testimonials, images, and videos that enriched the article!
Here’s her first testimonial from her very first solo trip:
“Traveling alone, for me, was an opportunity to get to know myself and say: Now I’m ready to meet other people!”
When you face new situations without depending on someone else to make decisions, you discover skills and strengths you may not have even known you had. Every challenge overcome (from finding your way in an unfamiliar city to dealing with unexpected situationsbeco) mes an opportunity for growth.
Another strong point is the flexibility to create your own itinerary. Traveling alone means having total freedom to decide where to go, how long to stay, and which activities to prioritize. You can change plans along the way, explore a hidden neighborhood, or spend hours in a café without worrying about meeting someone else’s expectations.
In addition, solo travel fosters deep connections with places and people. When you’re alone, you tend to observe more, talk to locals, and open yourself up to authentic experiences. These interactions often result in memories that last forever.
Finally, traveling alone is a powerful way to overcome fears and strengthen self-confidence. Being in unfamiliar territory can feel intimidating, but every small victory (from ordering food in another language to taking local transportation) reinforces the certainty that you are capable of facing challenges. This sense of autonomy extends to other areas of life, making you more confident and better prepared to handle any situation.
Above all, taking a solo trip is a gift to yourself: a chance to reconnect, discover, and explore the world at your own pace.
Fears and Myths: What to Really Expect
When thinking about traveling alone, it’s common for doubts and insecurities to arise. The fear of loneliness is one of the most frequently mentioned. Many women worry about feeling isolated, especially in faraway destinations. However, the reality is that, on a solo trip, you tend to be more open to spontaneous interactions. Whether on a tour, in a café, or at a hotel, the chances of meeting interesting people are much higher than you might imagine.
Another common concern is safety. It’s natural to worry, but the perception of danger is often amplified by stories and news. With good planning, conscious choices in accommodation, transportation, and activities, it’s possible to minimize risks and enjoy the trip with peace of mind. Researching the destination, understanding the local culture, and keeping in touch with family or friends along the way are simple steps that make all the difference.
The fear of judgment can also weigh in. Some women worry about what friends, family, or even strangers will think about their decision. But in practice, traveling alone often sparks admiration and even inspires others. There is a growing network of solo travelers who share tips, experiences, and support ranging from social media groups to in-person meetups organized by traveler communities.
In reality, traveling alone can be safer and more enriching than you might think. Support networks are everywhere, and exchanges with other travelers can turn a moment of uncertainty into a lasting friendship. With preparation and an open mind, fears give way to confidence, and myths dissolve in the face of real experiences.
A solo trip isn’t about facing everything alone it’s about discovering that the world is more welcoming and connected than it seems.
Here’s my friend’s second testimonial from her solo travel experience:
“Traveling alone was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. I’m already someone who is used to solitude, but I had never experienced living that solitude during a trip. Besides being a very special journey, it was the first time I went to the beach and the first time I flew on an airplane. I am very grateful to God for giving me this moment and making me realize that He is enough. This doesn’t invalidate the importance of people in our lives, but I believe we are our own little universe, and there are things that only we will understand.”
How to Prepare for a Safe Solo Trip
Preparation is one of the most important steps to ensure that a solo trip is not only enriching but also safe. Making strategic decisions before you set off helps you avoid unforeseen problems and travel with greater confidence.
The first step is researching the destination. This includes learning about the local culture, understanding the country’s or city’s laws and regulations, and finding out about appropriate behavior for women. In some destinations, simple gestures or clothing that are common in your home country may be perceived differently. Knowing about local habits, customs, and etiquette helps avoid misunderstandings and shows respect for the culture you’re visiting.
When choosing accommodations, prioritize safety. Opt for well-reviewed hotels on trusted platforms, preferably with 24-hour reception. Carefully read guest reviews, paying attention to details about location, nearby lighting, and ease of transportation. Private rooms or female-only dorms in hostels can also offer greater peace of mind.
Another essential point is adapting your clothing to the destination. Pack items that suit the climate, the culture, and your planned activities. In more conservative locations, modest clothing can help avoid unwanted attention or uncomfortable situations. In destinations with unpredictable weather, light and versatile layers ensure comfort without overpacking.
Technology is a great ally. Have useful apps on hand, such as Google Maps with offline maps, language translators, reliable transportation apps (Uber, 99, Bolt, etc.), and real-time location-sharing apps, like the location-sharing feature on WhatsApp or Google Maps.
Don’t forget to keep emergency contacts saved on your phone and written down on paper. Include numbers for the local police, the nearest hospital, your embassy or consulate, and family contacts. Travel insurance is also essential, ensuring medical assistance and support in unexpected situations, such as lost documents or canceled flights.
Lastly, share your itinerary with trusted family or friends. Provide dates, accommodations, and planned activities, and keep them updated on your location periodically. This ensures that someone knows where you are in case of emergency and also gives everyone greater peace of mind.
With planning, attention to detail, and smart use of available tools, traveling alone can be a safe, enjoyable, and transformative experience. The key is to balance caution with openness to new experiences—protecting yourself without missing out on what the world has to offer.
Recommended Destinations for Women Traveling Alone
One of the greatest advantages of traveling alone is being able to choose destinations that match your style and expectations. It’s also a transformative experience, especially when you choose places that offer safety, natural beauty, and opportunities to connect with the local culture.
Based on some safety research, I chose four countries to kick off our adventure.
Solo Travel for Women in Brazil
In Brazil, I’ve selected a few cities with high safety ratings and diverse cultures so you can start off on the right foot when exploring our country. If your interest is to get to know more of the South American continent, we have a complete article on the safest countries in South America.
Florianópolis
Located in Santa Catarina, the “Magic Island” is known for its laid-back vibe, high quality of life, and for being considered one of the safest capitals in the country. In addition to its more than 40 beaches, Florianópolis offers trails, viewpoints, and lagoons that enchant any traveler.
For those traveling solo, regions such as Lagoa da Conceição and Campeche are ideal, as they combine good infrastructure with easy access to transportation and attractions. The island is also perfect for those who enjoy outdoor sports, such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and hiking.
Chapada dos Veadeiros
In the heart of Goiás, this destination is an invitation to spirituality and ecotourism. Its landscapes are made up of stunning waterfalls, canyons, and ancient rock formations. It attracts travelers from all over the world seeking contact with nature and well-being experiences, such as retreats and meditative practices.
To ensure safety, especially on longer trails, it’s recommended to hire local guides, who know the region well and can enrich the trip with information about its flora, fauna, and history. The villages of Alto Paraíso and São Jorge serve as welcoming bases, offering charming inns and a friendly atmosphere for solo travelers.
“I visited Chapada dos Veadeiros with my husband, but I can assure you it’s an extremely safe option for a solo trip. The accommodations around the towns are calm and peaceful, but if you prefer a bit more excitement, there are plenty of options in the town centers that will make you feel both safe and energized.”
“As for the nature tours, they are also safe. We didn’t hire a guide to visit the waterfalls we chose, but I noticed that no one is ever really alone along the way. There are many people passing by constantly on the trail routes, at the viewpoints… in other words, all the tourist spots have a high flow of visitors.”
Paraty
Located on the southern coast of Rio de Janeiro, Paraty combines history, charm, and tranquility. Its Historic Center, with cobblestone streets and colonial mansions, is a true journey into the past, while its nearby beaches and islands offer perfect retreats for relaxation.
The city is also known for its cultural events, such as Flip (the Paraty International Literary Festival), which attract a diverse audience and encourage interesting encounters. For added safety, staying in the Historic Center allows you to explore on foot and enjoy the nightlife without long commutes.
All these destinations offer the perfect combination of beauty, safety, and hospitality, essential factors for women who want to explore Brazil on their own. Whether enjoying the beaches and trails of Florianópolis, recharging your energy in Chapada dos Veadeiros, or falling in love with the historic atmosphere of Paraty, the most important thing is to embrace the freedom that solo travel offers, while always keeping an eye on planning and safety.
Here’s another testimonial from my friend, who traveled to Rio de Janeiro on a solo trip, regarding safety:
“I was euphoric about everything and wanted to see the beach right away, so as soon as I arrived (at night), I called an Uber and went. I didn’t see any kind of threat, but later I found out that I was in an upscale area (Barra da Tijuca).”
Even though it’s a big city, if you choose the right location, you’ll make the most of it. Just don’t do what my friend did and skip the research first, haha! With the right destination and good preparation, traveling alone in Brazil stops being a challenge and becomes one of the most memorable experiences of your life.
Among the top recommendations for beginners who want to explore other countries are Portugal, Japan, and Canada, three nations that offer very different travel styles but share something in common: safety and hospitality.
For Brazilian women who want to venture abroad for the first time, here are some safe, welcoming destinations with good infrastructure, essential for ensuring peace of mind and making the most of the experience.
Portugal
For those who want a first international experience without the language barrier, Portugal is a perfect choice. Besides the advantage of speaking Portuguese, the country is known for its hospitality and for warmly welcoming tourists.
Lisbon, with its historic streets and charming viewpoints, and Porto, with its charm along the Douro River, are must-visit stops. For nature lovers, the Algarve offers paradisiacal beaches and incredible coastal trails. Safety in Portuguese cities is a major plus, as is the efficient public transportation and the wide range of accommodations for every travel style.
Japan
Considered one of the safest countries in the world, Japan is ideal for women seeking a culturally rich experience without worries about safety.
Tokyo impresses with its modernity, themed districts, and impeccable cuisine. Kyoto enchants visitors with its temples, gardens, and traditional atmosphere. Public transportation is extremely punctual and organized, making it easy to get around even for those who don’t speak Japanese.
Despite the language barrier, the kindness and willingness of the Japanese to help make the trip much smoother. In addition, the country is perfect for those who enjoy exploring both urban areas and natural landscapes.
Canada
Known for its high, quality infrastructure and cultural diversity, Canada offers vibrant cities and stunning nature. Toronto and Vancouver are dynamic urban destinations, with cultural attractions, varied cuisine, and multicultural neighborhoods.
For those who love landscapes, the Rocky Mountains in the west are a spectacle in themselves. Safety in Canadian cities is high, and public transportation is reliable. The country also stands out for its hospitality: it’s common to find Brazilian communities and people willing to help solo travelers.
When choosing one of these countries for your first solo trip, as a beginner traveler you will not only have the necessary safety, but also memorable experiences that can open doors to even bolder adventures in the future.
Practical tips during the trip
During a solo trip, small day-to-day precautions can make all the difference to ensure safety, well-being, and making the most of every moment. One of the most important recommendations is to arrive at places during the day. This applies both to cities and to accommodations or tourist attractions. Daylight makes it easier to find your way, offers more safety, and allows you to familiarize yourself with the surroundings before nightfall.
Another essential tip is to trust your instincts. If something feels strange or uncomfortable, respect that feeling. It could mean changing your route, avoiding a certain area, or even turning down an invitation. Your intuition is a valuable tool on the road.
It’s also important to avoid walking around with valuables in plain sight. Cameras, cell phones, jewelry, and even large sums of money should be kept discreetly. Choose safe bags or backpacks and use money belts for documents and cards.
Traveling alone doesn’t mean being isolated. Meeting other travelers can greatly enrich the experience, allowing for cultural exchanges and even partnerships to explore places. However, keep clear boundaries and protect your safety. Share only the information you feel comfortable with and avoid revealing personal details or specifics of your itinerary to strangers.
At the same time, take the opportunity to pause and enjoy your own company. Sitting in a café, watching the movement in a square, writing about your day, or simply contemplating the scenery are moments that make the trip even more special.
And yes, take plenty of photos. Documenting your journey is not just about creating visual memories, but also about recording your personal growth throughout the trip. Photos help you relive experiences, inspire other women, and reinforce the sense of accomplishment.
Lastly, and of utmost importance, prepare yourself mentally so that if something gets out of control, you can handle it and continue with your plans. In one of my friend’s accounts, she experienced a racist incident unfortunately, this is still something that happens frequently in any country in the world.
According to her, she didn’t recognize the act at the time, and I believe that helped her stick to her plans smoothly and be truly happy during the days of her solo trip. Here is the statement she gave me about how she felt after realizing what had happened:
“Wow, girl, a gorgeous woman like me, a beautiful Black woman like this… and there are still people who think they’re better than me? But it won’t be this rotten mindset that will ruin my day.”
This doesn’t mean nothing should be done, each person reacts differently, but try to handle the situation in an appropriate and safe way. By following these practical tips, a solo trip becomes more comfortable, light, and rewarding. The secret lies in balancing caution with openness to new experiences, making the most of every moment of this unique adventure.
Traveling Alone, But Never Isolated
Here are some group pages and communities that will welcome you during your journey on the road:
- Facebook groups and communities such as “Viajar Sozinha – Apenas Mulheres” (“Traveling Solo – Women Only”) and “Girls LOVE Travel”.
- Apps like Couchsurfing (for events), Meetup, and Bumble BFF.
Conclusion
Traveling solo is a powerful experience that goes far beyond visiting new places. It’s a journey of self-discovery, freedom, and personal empowerment. Despite any fears and myths that may exist, with planning and care, any woman can explore the world with safety and confidence.
Choosing destinations that match your style, preparing well, and keeping an open mind are essential steps to turn every trip into an unforgettable adventure. Moreover, solo travel offers the opportunity to make real connections, both with people and with yourself, expanding horizons and creating lifelong memories.
If you’re considering embarking on this journey, remember: the world is full of possibilities waiting to be discovered by you. So pack your bag, take the first step, and allow yourself to live this incredible solo experience.
Wrapping up with another statement from my friend about this image taken at a certain moment during her solo trip:
“I sat at the table. I ordered a dish different from what I usually have and stayed there for almost an hour, admiring the greatness of God and His works, and thinking: HOW GOOD THAT I CAN BE HERE! And the best part was that the whole time I didn’t think: I wish ‘so-and-so’ were here. I understood that those moments were just for me, just for me.”
Did you enjoy these tips? Share this article with that friend who has always dreamed of taking a solo trip, and if you’ve already made that dream come true, tell us about your experience living that adventure!
“Traveling solo is not about being alone. It’s about being with yourself.”
