15 Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers in 2025

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Traveling solo is one of the most empowering things you can do—but let’s be real, safety is always a top concern. 

2. Japan

With low crime rates, ultra-efficient public transport, and a culture of respect, Japan is an easy and stress-free place to travel solo. 

I felt super safe walking alone day and night, and women-only train cars offer extra peace of mind. Even the small details, like phone cameras being required to make a shutter sound (to prevent secret photos), show how much safety is prioritized!

Locals are incredibly polite and helpful, even if they don’t speak English. When I visited, strangers stopped to assist me—without being asked—when they saw I looked lost. And while the language barrier can feel intimidating at first, it quickly becomes part of the adventure.

Japan’s highly organized public transportation makes getting around incredibly easy, even for first-time visitors. And for solo diners, restaurants with one-person seating and privacy dividers create a comfortable experience—no awkward stares or forced small talk!

That said, Japan isn’t perfect. While violent crime is rare, harassment does happen—particularly on crowded trains. Most travelers won’t experience problems, but it’s important to stay aware. 

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: If anything does happen, koban (small police stations) are scattered throughout cities and are generally helpful to tourists.

3. Switzerland

Walking alone at night in Switzerland feels as safe as it gets. Crime rates are low, streets are well-lit, and public transportation is efficient and reliable—making it one of the safest solo female travel destinations.

When I visited Zurich and Lucerne, I never once felt uneasy. 

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and everything runs with Swiss precision. Lucerne, in particular, is a fairytale setting with its wooden chapel bridge, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lake. The scenic train rides between Swiss cities are an experience in themselves.

Switzerland also ranks highly on the Women, Peace, and Security Index (WPS Index), which measures women’s safety, inclusion, and justice worldwide. While no country is perfect, Switzerland’s strong gender equality policies and low rates of violence make it one of the safest countries for solo female travelers.

The biggest downside? The cost. Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world, and budget-conscious solo travelers might find it tough to stretch their funds here.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: If Switzerland’s prices are steep, consider basing yourself in a nearby country and taking day trips—many Swiss cities are just a short train ride from more affordable destinations in France, Germany, or Italy.

4. Norway

Violent crime is rare in Norway, and solo female travelers generally feel at ease walking alone—even at night. 

Gender equality is a major focus here, and the country consistently ranks among the best for women’s safety and quality of life. Public transportation is efficient and safe, and English is widely spoken, making it easy to get around.

When I visited Oslo in the winter, the cold and rain didn’t stop me from having an incredible experience. One of my favorite memories was renting a private floating sauna, warming up inside, and then jumping straight into the icy fjord—a shock to the system, but totally worth it. 

Outside the cities, Norway’s landscapes are what really shine—fjord cruises, scenic train rides, and summer hiking trails make it a dream for solo adventurers.

The main drawback is the cost—like the rest of Scandinavia, Norway is expensive, and dining out or joining activities can quickly add up for budget-conscious travelers.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: Norway is almost entirely cashless, so there’s no need to carry large amounts of money. Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere—even for small purchases like a coffee or a bus ticket.

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5. Singapore

Crime rates are incredibly low in Singapore, thanks to strict laws and a strong emphasis on order and cleanliness. Walking alone—whether day or night—feels completely safe, and the city’s efficient MRT system makes getting around easy.

I recently spent two weeks dog-sitting in Singapore, staying in a beautiful apartment for free in exchange for taking care of an adorable goldendoodle—a great way to save on accommodation in an otherwise pricey city.

Singapore’s diversity is part of what makes it such an enjoyable place to visit. With a mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences, the city feels international yet distinctly its own.

This blend of cultures is reflected in its food, from Michelin-starred hawker stalls to Indian curries and Malay satay. Locals are used to visitors from all backgrounds, making it a welcoming destination for solo travelers.

A local tip I quickly learned: In the hawker centers, people reserve tables by leaving a packet of tissues—yes, it’s a real system, and yes, it’s respected! Don’t forget to return your tray when you’re done.

The biggest drawback is the cost—while food can be budget-friendly, accommodation is expensive. 

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: Singapore has some of the strictest laws in the world, with hefty fines for jaywalking, littering, vaping, and even chewing gum. Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including the death penalty, and foreign governments have little power to intervene. Respect the rules, and you’ll have a smooth (and incredibly safe) trip.

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6. Denmark

Denmark is one of the safest and most progressive countries in the world, with low crime rates and a strong focus on gender equality. Even petty theft isn’t a major issue, though it’s still worth keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Safety is so ingrained in Danish culture that parents regularly leave their babies napping outside cafés while they grab a coffee—something that would be unthinkable in many other countries.

Copenhagen may be the most well-known destination, with its historic waterfront, colorful Nyhavn district, and bike-friendly streets, but the rest of the country offers just as much charm. 

Travelers can explore Denmark’s stunning coastline, visit fairy-tale castles like Kronborg (of Hamlet fame), or experience the laid-back island life in places like Ærø.

Public transportation is reliable and runs late (with Copenhagen’s metro operating 24/7), and nearly everyone speaks English, making it easy to get around. 

While the U.S. travel advisory mentions the possibility of terrorism, it’s not something I would personally worry about.

Honestly, the biggest risk is probably stepping into a bike lane without looking—cyclists have the right of way, and they move fast!

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: Whether biking around Copenhagen or exploring the countryside, accidents can happen. After a recent bike crash in Taiwan, I can confidently say—get travel insurance! It’s worth it for peace of mind.

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7. New Zealand

New Zealand is the kind of place where solo female travelers can truly relax—crime rates are low, people are friendly but not intrusive, and even the most remote hiking trails feel safe. 

It’s ranked #4 on the Global Peace Index, and unlike Australia, you don’t have to worry about snakes, giant spiders, or anything else trying to kill you!

It’s also ridiculously beautiful. From glowworm caves to fjords to rolling green hills straight out of The Lord of the Rings, it’s a dream for nature lovers. Hiking is a huge part of the experience, with well-maintained trails and mountain huts that make solo trekking easier.

The only real challenge is that New Zealand is huge—and very spread out. 

Renting a car or campervan is the best way to see it all, but for those who don’t want to drive, buses and organized tours make it doable.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: The weather in New Zealand is no joke. Always check conditions before hiking, and if you’re heading somewhere remote, let someone know your plans—you don’t want to be the person who gets stuck on a mountain in a surprise storm.

8. Taiwan

Taiwan is one of the safest countries in Asia, ranking 4th on Numbeo’s crime index. Violent crime is rare, and solo female travelers will find it easy to explore thanks to excellent infrastructure, a welcoming culture, and a strong sense of order. 

It’s such an underrated destination!

I recently spent several weeks in Taiwan, and while it’s not as heavily touristed as some other places on this list, that’s part of its charm. Public transportation is incredibly safe and easy to use, and Ubers are cheap for when you need extra convenience.

The night markets were a highlight—cheap, delicious food and a lively atmosphere that felt completely safe, even late at night. 

While there’s less English spoken here compared to other places on this list, locals are kind and helpful, so communication is rarely a problem.

I had an unfortunate bike accident while in Taiwan (totally my fault), but the kindness of strangers blew me away. Locals helped me get medical treatment, and my hospital visit was smoother—and cheaper—than any I’ve had at home.

Taiwan is prone to earthquakes, and I happened to be there for a major one. It was impressive how quickly the country responded—trains were running again just hours later. If you’re not used to earthquakes, it’s worth reading up on what to do in case of one.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: Taiwan is undeniably safe for women traveling alone, but it’s not the most social destination for solo travelers—yet. Unlike places like Thailand, where meeting other backpackers is effortless, Taiwan’s hostels tend to attract more Chinese-speaking travelers. If you don’t speak the language, you might have to put in a little more effort to make friends, but it’s definitely possible!

9. Portugal

Portugal is one of my all-time favorite countries—I’ve been three separate times, and during my last visit, I stayed for a full month! 

It’s also one of the safest places in Europe for solo female travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere.

Solo travel is common here, and whether you’re wandering Lisbon’s colorful streets, sipping wine in Porto, or relaxing on the Algarve’s beaches, you won’t stand out. 

Public transport is solid, with reliable trains and buses connecting most major destinations.

Like much of Europe, petty theft can be an issue—especially in touristy areas—so keep an eye on your belongings. But overall, I’ve always felt completely comfortable exploring alone.

And of course, there’s pastel de nata. These little custard tarts are addictive, and the best ones are warm, fresh, and slightly caramelized on top. I still dream about them.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: Eating late is the norm in Portugal, and if you’re not used to it, finding yourself in a near-empty restaurant at 7PM can feel weird as a solo traveler. I like to book a food tour on my first night—it’s a great way to get accustomed to the local dining scene and meet other travelers. If you’re up for it, a bar crawl through Lisbon or Porto’s local spots is also a fun way to experience the nightlife in a safe, social setting.

10. Ireland

Ireland ranks 2nd on the Global Peace Index, making it one of the safest destinations for solo women travelers. 

But beyond the numbers, it just feels safe—friendly locals, low crime, and an overall welcoming atmosphere make it an easy place to navigate alone.

Ireland was actually the very first country I ever traveled to solo. I picked it because they speak English (huge confidence boost for a first-timer) and because it’s known for being safe. And I couldn’t have chosen better!

From the dramatic Cliffs of Moher to the lively streets of Dublin and the rugged beauty of Connemara, there’s so much to see. 

Public transportation connects major cities, but renting a car is the best way to explore the countryside. I didn’t feel comfortable driving on the left side alone, so I used Dublin and Galway as my bases and took day tours instead—an easy way to see the highlights and meet other travelers.

The pub culture is legendary, and while it’s fun to experience a traditional Irish music session over a pint of Guinness, solo female travelers should take the usual precautions—watch your drink and pace yourself if you’re drinking alone.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: Stay connected with an eSIM or local SIM card for easy navigation and trip planning. Ireland’s countryside is beautiful but remote in places, so having mobile data for maps and transportation info is key!

11. South Korea

Walking alone at night in South Korea—whether in Seoul or a smaller city—feels completely safe. Violent crime is rare, and the country has an incredibly low crime rate. 

That said, some travelers report occasional harassment in nightlife areas, usually from drunk locals, so it’s best to stay aware and avoid overly rowdy spots.

I spent a week in Seoul and felt incredibly safe the entire time. 

The public transportation system is extensive and efficient, though I found it a bit confusing at first (Google Maps doesn’t work in South Korea, and the local map apps aren’t very intuitive). 

Not much English is spoken, but locals were still kind and helpful.

One of the biggest challenges for solo travelers is eating alone. Some restaurants, especially those specializing in Korean BBQ, won’t serve solo diners. 

If you’re on your own, a food tour is another fantastic way to try local dishes and meet people.

Beyond Seoul, South Korea has so much to offer—stunning mountain hikes, beautiful temples, and vibrant cities like Busan, known for its beaches and fresh seafood.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: Since Google Maps isn’t reliable, download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps before you go. They take some getting used to, but they’re essential for navigating South Korea’s cities and public transport.

12. Canada

Canada’s reputation for solo female travel safety is well-earned, with low crime rates and a general culture of politeness. 

While it’s always smart to take precautions, violent crime is rare, and even Canada’s sketchiest cities feel relatively safe compared to major U.S. cities. 

The biggest dangers here aren’t people but nature—harsh winters, remote wilderness, and wildlife encounters are more of a concern than pickpockets or scams.

Canada is basically a giant playground for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking through the Rockies, road-tripping along the wild coastlines of the Maritimes, or spotting moose in a national park (from a safe distance, of course), there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping scenery. 

Cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal bring the culture, food, and festivals, while smaller towns serve up cozy vibes and easy access to the great outdoors. 

And as if Canada wasn’t already a safe bet for solo travelers, it’s also been ranked the friendliest country in the world—so don’t be surprised if locals go out of their way to help.

I’ve only been to Montreal, which was covered in snow when I visited in March. It was freezing, but the bagels were worth it. While I haven’t made it to places like Banff or Jasper yet, I used to work for a Canadian travel blogger, and her photos of the national parks were unreal!

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: If you’re exploring Canada’s national parks solo, let someone know your plans. Weather conditions can change quickly, and cell service can be spotty in remote areas.

👉 I love how easy it is to compare the major car rental companies to find the best price with this tool.

13. Slovenia

Slovenia doesn’t get nearly as much attention as other European destinations, but when it comes to safety, it ranks higher than most. 

It’s currently 9th on the Global Peace Index, has a very low crime rate, and an impressive 91% of women report feeling safe walking alone at night.

Ljubljana, the capital, is particularly welcoming—less crowded and chaotic than bigger European cities, but still vibrant and fun to explore. English is widely spoken, and the city’s walkability makes it easy to navigate solo.

Outside the city, Slovenia has some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe! Lake Bled looks straight out of a fairy tale, and Triglav National Park offers alpine hikes and crystal-clear lakes. 

For a solo road trip, the country’s safe and well-maintained roads make driving stress-free compared to other parts of Europe.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: Public transportation is reliable, but renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore. Slovenia’s small size makes it easy to see a lot in a short time, and driving here is straightforward—even for solo female travelers.

14. El Salvador

El Salvador might not be the first country that comes to mind for solo female travelers, but its rapid safety improvements have made it one of the most surprising additions to this list. 

The government’s crackdown on crime has transformed tourist areas like San Salvador and El Tunco, making them significantly safer than they were just a few years ago. While safety stats have improved, it’s still important to stay aware—like in any major city, some areas remain off-limits.

I never originally planned to visit El Salvador, but during my months of solo travel through Central America, I rerouted at the last minute—and it ended up being my favorite stop. 

The country’s tourism infrastructure is still developing, so it’s not the easiest destination for beginners, but for those willing to navigate it, the rewards are huge.

Hiking Santa Ana Volcano was a highlight, with views straight into a bright turquoise crater lake. The small towns along the Ruta de las Flores were another favorite—charming, colorful, and home to some of the best pupusas I’ve ever had. Surfing is also a major draw, with beaches like El Tunco and El Zonte attracting both backpackers and pros.

One thing I noticed while traveling here: there are way more solo male travelers than solo female travelers. El Salvador is still flying under the radar for women traveling alone—but that should change. The country is full of warm, welcoming locals who are genuinely happy to see tourists returning.

The biggest challenge here isn’t crime but logistics. Public transport exists, but the famous chicken buses are an experience (to put it lightly). 

Knowing some Spanish is a huge help, as English isn’t widely spoken. 

El Salvador’s government has taken extreme measures to improve safety, with mass arrests and a controversial suspension of due process (we’ll see how this plays out in the long run). Locals I spoke with were relieved to finally feel secure walking outside.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: While safety has improved, El Salvador isn’t a place to throw caution to the wind. Stick to well-traveled areas, use trusted transport options, and consider teaming up with other travelers if you want to explore more remote regions. Knowing basic Spanish will also make your trip much smoother.

Pro Tip: Read reviews on Hostelworld – one of the best hostel booking sites – to see what the hostel serves for breakfast. 

15. Rwanda

Rwanda is often considered one of the safest countries in Africa, thanks to low crime rates, strong security measures, and a culture of order and cleanliness. 

Kigali, the capital, is particularly safe for solo female travelers—it’s clean, organized, and surprisingly walkable, with well-regulated motorbike taxis (boda bodas) that feel safer than in many other places.

However, while Rwanda ranks highly for safety, it’s not the easiest destination for solo female travelers.

Public transport can be tricky, infrastructure is still developing outside major areas, and navigating the country independently requires more effort than in places like Europe or Southeast Asia.

When I visited, I traveled with friends and stayed with a local family, which made everything much smoother. We hired a driver for a few days (very affordable), which wasn’t strictly necessary—the roads weren’t bad—but it reduced stress significantly. 

One of the absolute highlights of my time in Rwanda was trekking through the forest to see the mountain gorillas. It was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life, and the journey itself—hiking through misty jungle terrain—was just as incredible.

That said, Rwanda is still developing its tourism infrastructure, and rural areas don’t see as many solo female travelers. Expect some curiosity, especially in regions less accustomed to visitors, but it’s usually just innocent interest rather than anything threatening.

A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a sobering but important experience. The country’s transformation since the 1994 genocide is remarkable, and Rwanda’s emphasis on unity and reconciliation is apparent everywhere.

💡 Solo Female Travel Tip: If you’re venturing beyond Kigali, consider joining a small group tour or hiring a driver to make logistics easier. Rwanda is safe, but it’s not as solo-friendly as other destinations on this list.

Other Safe Countries for Solo Female Travelers

There were a few countries that didn’t quite make the top 15 but are still incredibly safe for solo female travelers. Some are similar to destinations already listed, while others I haven’t personally visited yet—but they deserve a mention.

🇪🇺 Europe

Most of Western and Northern Europe is generally safe for solo female travelers, with well-developed infrastructure and low crime rates. Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands all rank highly for safety, though they have a similar vibe to other European picks on this list.

Italy and Spain are two of my favorite countries, and I’ve spent months traveling solo in both. They’re safe overall but have a higher risk of petty theft—especially in touristy areas like Rome and Barcelona. Just keep an eye on your belongings, and you’ll be fine.

Montenegro and Croatia are two of the safest countries in the Balkans. I spent a month road-tripping in the region, and while the mountain roads were a bit nerve-wracking at times, the destinations were stunning.

🇹🇭 Southeast Asia

Thailand is the classic solo female travel destination. I lived and traveled there for eight months and absolutely fell in love. It’s safe, welcoming, and super easy to navigate—especially for first-time solo travelers. 

Vietnam offers a similar experience, with great food, friendly locals, and an affordable cost of travel.

Indonesia is another safe option, though the experience can vary depending on where you go. Bali, in particular, is solo-travel friendly, but some other regions require more experience.

🇦🇪 The Middle East

The UAE—especially Dubai—is one of the safest places for solo female travelers. However, cultural differences and strict laws mean it’s important to understand local customs.

Jordan is another great choice. I spent a month traveling there solo, and while street harassment was a minor annoyance in some areas, I always felt safe. The hospitality of locals more than made up for it.

🇿🇦 Africa

Botswana is often considered one of the safest African countries, particularly for safari travel. I’ve done safaris in Botswana and Zimbabwe, and while I didn’t explore on my own too much outside of that, the experience was absolutely incredible.

🇵🇪 South America

Peru is one of the safest picks, especially in popular tourist areas like Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Arequipa. Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination, and the country has a well-established backpacker trail, making it easier to meet other travelers. Like in many Latin American cities, petty theft is the main concern, so stay aware in places like Lima.

Uruguay is often called the safest country in South America. It has a low crime rate, friendly locals, and a relaxed atmosphere. Montevideo is walkable and safe, and the beach town of Punta del Este is a favorite for travelers looking for a laid-back destination.

Would I Solo Travel to These Places? Absolutely.

These runner-up destinations may not have made the main list, but they’re all fantastic options for solo female travelers looking for safe, enjoyable experiences. 

Countries with Higher Safety Risks for Solo Female Travelers

Most places in the world can be visited with the right preparation, but some destinations pose higher risks for women traveling alone based on crime rates, gender-based violence, and political instability.

That said, feeling safe is highly subjective. 

Some of my favorite trips were in so-called “dangerous countries.” I’ve spent a month living in both Mexico and South Africa, traveled solo via public transportation in Honduras and Colombia, and had incredible experiences in all of them.

I have friends who absolutely loved India and Brazil, and I plan to visit them solo someday soon.

Bad things can happen anywhere, but I strongly believe fear of the worst-case scenario shouldn’t stop us from exploring the world.

That being said, some countries do pose higher risks.

Destinations like South Africa, Brazil, and Venezuela have higher rates of violent crime, while places like India, Egypt, and Morocco are known for persistent street harassment. Some Latin American countries, including Honduras and parts of Mexico and Colombia, require extra precautions due to crime and safety concerns.

Of course, safety varies by region. Some cities and tourist areas—São Paulo in Brazil, Rajasthan in India, or Cartagena in Colombia—are far more manageable than others.

If you’re set on visiting any of these places, do your research, take precautions, and trust your instincts. 

I firmly believe that most places are doable—but some require extra planning and experience.

Final Thoughts: Safest Solo Female Travel Destinations

A destination can be incredibly safe but still not the right fit for every solo traveler.

This list of the safest countries for solo female travelers made the cut based on real data—low crime rates, gender equality, and how safe women feel navigating alone.

Iceland, Japan, and Switzerland consistently rank among the safest in the world, while others, like El Salvador and Rwanda, have made huge strides in security. 

These are places where walking alone feels comfortable, public transport is reliable, and street harassment is minimal.

Safety is a huge factor in solo travel, but it’s not the only one.

Some of my best travel memories come from places that didn’t make this list! I’ve spent weeks in Mexico and South Africa, taken public transportation in Honduras, and wandered through Colombia alone. I met kind strangers, saw incredible places, and felt safe most of the time.

That said, statistics exist for a reason, and some places do require more precautions. No matter where you go, basic solo travel safety applies—stay aware of your surroundings, trust your instincts, and don’t let fear dictate your choices.

Women traveling alone have to think about safety in a way that men don’t. But that shouldn’t stop us from exploring the world. 

Most solo female travelers I know, myself included, have had overwhelmingly positive experiences.

Some destinations aren’t just safe—they’re also social, exciting, and easy to navigate solo. If you want a place that checks all those boxes, there are plenty of great options.