The 20 safest countries for women to travel alone in 2024

Tired of waiting for friends or family to travel with you? Do you crave the freedom to explore new places on your terms? Then it's time to unleash your inner adventurer and embark on a solo trip!

Attention solo female travelers! Our travel experts have compiled the ultimate list of the safest destinations for solo female travel. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time traveler, we've considered what we think is important, from comprehensive safety criteria, including crime rates, gender equality, political stability, and local attitudes toward women.

Don't wait any longer, start planning your next adventure today to one of our top 20 safest countries for women to travel alone.

Empowering reasons to travel solo

Wondering if solo travel is for you? After interviewing several solo female travelers we can confidently reveal the following five reasons to adventure out of your comfort zones alone:

1. Autonomy - When you travel with others, compromises are inevitable. But when you're traveling solo, you have complete control over your itinerary.

2. Meeting new people - It's often easier to strike up conversations with locals and other travelers.

3. Gaining confidence - Boosts confidence by pushing you to try new things and provides a sense of accomplishment.

4. Self-discovery - The perfect chance for reflection and self-discovery.

5. Feel liberated - Traveling solo offers a chance to be selfish with your time and space without judgment.

With these reasons in mind, it’s no surprise that 74% of women have traveled alone globally or intended to do so.

Cons of solo female travel: Safety stats and insights

That said, there are some safety concerns despite the rising number of solo female travelers. Women are unfortunately more vulnerable to harassment, theft, and other crimes while traveling, with 80 percent of women considering their safety when planning a trip, and two out of five women experiencing unwelcome interactions during their travels.

No, we aren’t trying to talk you out of planning your trip. In fact, we hope that by stating the facts, we can encourage you to carefully plan and prepare as solo female travel is generally safe if you take the right precautions.

Safety concerns when traveling alone: A woman’s perspective

At iVisa, we analyzed and evaluated popular travel destinations to find the safest countries for solo women travelers, recognizing that solo travel can be exciting but that safety is also a concern.

Among the many things we considered, these factors stood out:

• The gender gap: The global gender gap showcases the difference between men's and women's access to education, healthcare, politics, and economic opportunities, which can impact women's safety while traveling. Solo female travelers can promote gender equality by supporting local organizations, seeking out female-owned businesses, and sharing their experiences.

• High crime rates: Solo female travelers are vulnerable targets for crime. Researching a destination's crime rates is crucial to take sensible precautions while enjoying the trip.

• Domestic violence and sexual violence rates: When evaluating the overall safety of countries for women traveling alone, we considered the impact of domestic violence and sexual harassment.

Criteria used to rank the safest countries for a solo female traveler

Based on the concerns we mentioned, we focused on the following criteria to rank the safest countries for female solo travelers:

• Steps taken to protect women

• Friendliness ranking

• Crime rates and gender-based violence rates

• Overall accessibility

• Global Peace Index

• Global Gender Gap Index

The 20 safest countries for solo female travelers

While the Women’s Danger Index has already crowned the most dangerous country and highlights other places you may encounter issues, we were determined to find the safest country and countries for women to visit alone. Let’s dive into our list:

1. Switzerland

With a low crime rate and high levels of safety -only 2% of women have reported experiencing violence from men- Switzerland tops the list. The country is also known for its stunning natural beauty, especially with its alpine peaks and mountain vistas. It’s also famous for its excellent infrastructure, friendly people, and high-quality chocolate.

Switzerland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, so women generally feel safe here. Plus, it has strict laws against gender-based violence.

Following our previous criteria, we give it this ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 5/5

• Friendliness ranking: 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates: 5/5

• Overall accessibility: 4/5

• Global Peace Index: 5/5

• Gender Gap Index: 4/5

Wander-woman tip: Switzerland knows about its potential to become one of the female solo traveler’s favorite destinations and hasn’t fallen short in actively promoting the reasons why. An example of this is the 100% Women’s Only campaign, first launched during International Women's Day in 2021.

2. Ireland

Ireland is ranked as an incredibly safe country for solo female travelers, with its overall safety score of 7.88. Ireland’s natural environment, with incredible landscapes and seascapes, is one of the top reasons why many female travelers put this country on their bucket list.

From the cliffs at Slieve League to the Connemara National Park, Ireland’s scenery represents uniqueness in Europe. Not to mention its friendly citizens, who are always ready to help solo female travelers to make them feel welcome.

Our ranking is:

• Steps taken to protect women 4/5

• Friendliness ranking: 5/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates: 3/5

• Overall accessibility: 5/5

• Global Peace Index: 5/5

• Gender Gap Index: 4/5

Wander-woman tip: As in every place, some pickpocketing is bound to happen. Keep your belongings protected to prevent it, especially if you are visiting during St. Patrick’s Day when “going for a drink” suddenly becomes seven empty jugs.

3.Canada

Canada is considered a safe country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety score of 7.69. It has a relatively low crime rate despite being a very cosmopolitan place.

When traveling solo, Canada offers many benefits. Enjoy the freedom of exploring without fear, as you won't need to keep an eye out for potential danger or continuously worry about the safety of your belongings.

Its mountainous scenery and beautiful wildlife make it the perfect place for nature lovers.

This is our ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 4/5

• Friendliness ranking: 5/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates:3/5. *Overall accessibility: 5/5

• Global Peace Index: 5/5

• Gender Gap Index: 4/5

Wander-woman tip: With a 99% literacy rate, socializing, asking for directions, and putting your ideas out there won’t be a complex task. Just keep in mind that Canada has British and French influence, so try to practice your French language skills if you are planning to visit Montreal.

4.Finland

Finland is a safe and welcoming destination for solo female travelers, with an overall safety score of 7.76.

Thanks to its citizens' high incomes, universal healthcare, and exceptional education system, Finland frequently tops the charts as the world's happiest country. The country is also popular for its breathtaking Lapland region, stunning northern lights, traditional saunas, unique cuisine, and, of course, as the birthplace of Santa Claus.

We give it this ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 4/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 3/5

• Overall accessibility - 5/5

• Global Peace Index - 4/5

• Gender Gap Index - 4/5

Wander woman tip: Don't be surprised if you see Finns jumping into icy lakes during winter - it's all part of their traditional sauna culture. Join in the fun and warm-up in the hot sauna before taking a refreshing dip in the icy water.

5.Iceland

As you can guess, nordic countries are popular for their incredibly safe environment, especially for women, so we must mention Iceland. Many solo female travelers report feeling safe and respected in public spaces, making it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers.

This country is renowned for its wild and awe-inspiring landscapes. The must-see attractions include the Northern Lights, the Blue Lagoon, impressive volcanoes, sprawling glaciers, and majestic waterfalls. Additionally, Iceland is notable for its rich history and Viking heritage.

This is our ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 4/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 3/5

• Overall accessibility - 5/5

• Global Peace Index - 4/5

• Gender Gap Index - 4/5

Wander woman tip: Don't be surprised if you see babies sleeping peacefully outside cafes and shops while exploring Iceland on your solo trip. It's a common practice in Iceland to leave babies outside to nap in their strollers, even in the cold winter months.

6.Sweden

With an overall safety score of 7.85, solo female travelers can feel generally safe in Sweden as the country boasts a low crime rate and is one of the world's safest destinations.

With its 29 national parks and more than 100,000 lakes, Sweden is a dream destination for camping enthusiasts and hikers. Its breathtaking natural landscapes are easily reachable from major cities, as access to nature is considered a public right (This is known as “allemansrätten”).

We give this country the following ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 4/5

• Friendliness ranking - 3/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 2/5

• Overall accessibility - 4/5

• Global Peace Index - 5/5

• Gender Gap Index - 4/5

Wander woman tip: Swedes love their fika - a coffee break with friends or colleagues, so you should try it out with delicious pastries! You won’t regret it!

7.Norway

Norway stands out as one of the safest travel destinations in the world with its exceptionally low crime rates. Visitors of all backgrounds can feel welcome in this open and inclusive country, including women traveling solo and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Although it might be difficult to get social in the country due to its introverted culture, you can still share nice experiences with locals.

We recommend you explore Norway’s nature as it’s a country full of beauty with events like the arctic lights and the islands of Lofoten.

Our ranking for Norway is:

• Steps taken to protect women - 4/5

• Friendliness Ranking - 3/5

• Gender-Based Violence & Crime Rates - 2/5

• Overall Accessibility - 4/5

• Global Peace Index - 5/5 Gender Gap Index - 5/5

Wander woman tip: Did you know that Norwegians have a tradition called 'kos'? It's a cozy and relaxing time spent with friends and family, often involving candles, blankets, and warm drinks.

8.Denmark

Denmark is a remarkable destination for solo travelers, consistently earning recognition as one of the world's safest, happiest, and most livable cities. Its capital city, Copenhagen, is popular for its food culture and boasts world-class restaurants such as Noma and Geranium, both of which have been recognized as winners of the World's 50 Best Restaurants award.

Like the other Scandinavian countries, Denmark is also known for its design and architecture. Another plus is its public transportation system, which is highly efficient even in the most isolated regions.

This is our ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 5/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 2/5

• Overall accessibility - 3/5

• Global Peace Index - 5/5

• Gender Gap Index - 4/5

Wander woman tip: Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience hygge, a cozy and comfortable feeling of contentment that is quintessentially Danish!

9.The Netherlands

With an overall safety score of 7.62, the country is regarded as a safe and welcoming place for women traveling alone.

This country is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, picturesque windmills, and vibrant tulip fields. Its charming cities, such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam, are full of cultural treasures, historic landmarks, and unique architecture, making the country a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Here’s our final ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 3/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 3/5

• Overall accessibility - 4/5

• Global Peace Index - 5/5

• Gender Gap Index - 3/5

Wander woman tip: Hop on a bike and pedal your way through the charming streets and scenic countryside. Join the thousands of Dutch women who cycle every day!

10.Austria

Solo female travelers can feel safe exploring Austria's picturesque cities and countryside, as the country is considered one of the safest in Europe. The locals are welcoming and hospitable, and the country offers excellent public transportation and a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget.

This country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. With its snow-capped mountains and alpine villages, Austria boasts a wealth of breathtaking landscapes!

Our ranking is

• Steps to protect women - 4/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 3/5

• Overall accessibility - 3/5

• Global Peace Index - 4/5

• Gender Gap Index - 3/5.

Wander woman tip: Indulge in a slice of Sachertorte, Austria's famous chocolate cake, and discover why it's been a Viennese tradition since 1832.

11.Japan

Japan is a unique and fascinating destination that offers unforgettable experiences for travelers. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene beauty of Kyoto's temples and gardens, Japan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

The country is also famous for its delicious cuisine, which ranges from sushi and ramen to regional specialties like okonomiyaki and takoyaki.

It’s also a safe country, making it an ideal destination for solo female travelers. The locals are friendly and helpful, and the country provides an excellent transportation infrastructure.

This is our ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 3/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 4/5

• Overall accessibility - 3/5

• Global Peace Index - 5/5

• Gender Gap Index - 2/5

Wander-woman tip: Apart from being an excellent location for women to explore on their own, Japan has a very installed solo-travel culture, meaning that it won’t be a problem to book a table for one.

12.Portugal

Over the past few years, Portugal has emerged as one of the most secure countries in Europe, with hardly any incidence of violent crimes and rare occurrences of petty crimes such as pickpocketing.

Its safe environment makes it a big deal for solo female travelers. Its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, combined with a low crime rate, ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

With vibrant cities like Lisbon and Porto and stunning coastal towns like Lagos, Portugal offers diverse landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Here you can explore historic sites and soak up the sun on pristine beaches.

Here’s its ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 3/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 3/5

• Overall accessibility - 3/5

• Global Peace Index - 3/5

• Gender Gap Index - 3/5

Wander Woman tip: When meeting someone new or greeting a friend, it's normal to give two kisses on the cheeks, called "beijinho."

13.Spain

Spain is an enticing destination for solo female travelers, offering a multitude of reasons to embark on an unforgettable adventure. The country boasts a strong emphasis on safety, making it a secure and welcoming place to explore. Of course, you shouldn’t leave common sense behind because pickpocketing is common in some cities, but with basic safety tips, you shouldn’t stress!

Spain's delicious food and wine, welcoming atmosphere, vibrant arts scene, and affordable prices make it a top destination for those seeking adventure and culture.

Our ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 3/5**

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5**

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 3/5**

• Overall accessibility - 3/5**

• Global Peace Index - 3/5**

• Gender Gap Index - 4/5**

Wander woman tip: Be aware of the "siesta," the traditional midday break from 2 pm to 5 pm when shops and restaurants may close.

14.Germany

Just like anywhere else in the world, no location can guarantee absolute safety, making it wise to exercise caution. However, Germany is widely recognized as one of the safest cities in Europe.

Known for its efficient public transportation, Germany provides ease of movement and accessibility to its vibrant cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. It’s also famous for its excellent food, beer, and wine, which you can enjoy in cozy taverns and bustling beer gardens.

Moreover, it’s an excellent destination for first-time travelers!

Here’s our ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 3/5

• Friendliness ranking: 3/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates: 4/5**

• Overall accessibility: 4/5**

• Global Peace Index: 3/5 **

• Gender Gap Index - 2/5**

Wander-woman tip: If you are planning to meet with someone or get invited to a social event in Germany, be aware that 3 p.m. actually means 3 p.m. The Germans are known for being on time!

15.New Zealand

With a safety score of 7.33, New Zealand is a perfect solo female travel destination.

This country is renowned for its outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and water sports, making it a paradise for adventure seekers. It’s also popular for its spectacular range of breathtaking scenery. You can find beaches and subtropical forests in the North, but also glaciers, pristine lakes, and snow-covered mountains in the South.

With reliable public transportation and a well-developed tourism infrastructure, New Zealand is easy and convenient to explore!

We give it this ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 2/5

• Friendliness ranking: 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates: 3/5

• Overall accessibility: 4/5

• Global Peace Index: 2/5

• Gender Gap Index: 4/5

Wander-woman tip: Kiwi’ culture does not necessarily involve leaving a tip every time you go out. It's totally okay to just pay for the product or service you are getting, but if the experience is beyond sensational, it is acceptable to leave extra money for the waiter.

16.Belgium

Belgium is widely regarded as a secure destination for solo female travelers. This country boasts a reputation for its remarkably low crime rate and welcoming locals, while it´s well-illuminated cities and user-friendly layout make navigation a breeze.

From exploring the medieval architecture of Bruges to savoring world-famous Belgian chocolates and waffles, the country captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage. Discover vibrant cities like Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp while indulging in Belgium's warm hospitality.

Our ranking is:

• Steps taken to protect women - 3/5

• Friendliness ranking - 3/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 2/5

• Overall accessibility - 3/5

• Global Peace Index - 4/5

• Gender Gap Index - 4/5

Wander woman tip: In Belgium, it's tradition to take a coffee or tea break in the afternoon -called "vieruurtje”- to indulge in delicious pastry. Although tipping is not obligatory, leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.

17.Costa Rica

With its warm climate, friendly locals, and vibrant culture, Costa Rica is a perfect destination for adventurous solo female travelers looking to experience the beauty and excitement of Central America.

In Costa Rica, laws criminalizing violence and initiatives to promote gender equality have been implemented to protect women.

There are numerous exciting activities to enjoy in Costa Rica. Explore the wonders of Manuel Antonio National Park, hike the majestic Arenal Volcano, and experience the thrill of zip-lining in Monteverde. Solo female travelers can also find solace in rejuvenating yoga and wellness retreats.

Our ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 2/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 3/5

• Overall accessibility - 3/5

• Global Peace Index - 3/5

• Gender Gap Index - 3/5

Wander woman tip: When traveling to Costa Rica, embrace the "pura vida" spirit, representing a laid-back, friendly, and optimistic way of life. And don't forget to say "¡Qué chiva!" for "cool" or "awesome!"

18.Australia

Australia is generally considered a safe country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety score of 7.54. The largest country in Oceania has a relatively low crime rate, and incidents of violence against women are taken seriously by law enforcement.

Australians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making it easy to connect with locals and build new friendships. From iconic cities like Sydney and Melbourne to breathtaking natural wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Outback, Australia offers diverse landscapes and captivating experiences.

We give it this ranking:

• Steps taken to protect women - 3/5

• Friendliness ranking: 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates: 4/5

• Overall accessibility: 3/5

• Global Peace Index: 3/5

• Gender Gap Index: 3/5

Wander-woman tip: Don’t want to come across as rude? Then thank the driver every time you descend from public transportation. This is part of the warm Aussie culture!

19.Slovenia

Slovenia is a beautiful and safe destination for solo female travelers. This country is renowned for its excellent safety, and its small size makes it incredibly convenient to navigate.

Slovenia attracts adventurous travelers and outdoor enthusiasts with its array of adrenaline sports and stunning natural landscapes. From the charming capital of Ljubljana to picturesque lakes and mountains, Slovenia provides a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and tranquility, making it an inviting choice for anyone. With beautiful places like Lake Bled, it’s practically impossible to get bored there!

Here’s its ranking:

• Steps Taken to protect women - 2/5

• Friendliness ranking - 4/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 2/5

• Overall accessibility - 3/5

• Global Peace Index - 2/5

• Gender Gap Index - 3/5

Wander woman tip: In Slovenia, it's common to be offered a shot of Žganje, a strong fruit-based spirit, as a sign of hospitality. Take a small sip and say, "Na zdravje!" before enjoying the drink.

20.France

Women report feeling comfortable and respected in public spaces, though, like in any large city, it is crucial to be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes.

With its charming ambiance, impressive architecture, and inviting atmosphere, France offers a perfect destination for solo exploration, allowing you to discover the country at your own pace. From the iconic city of Paris to quaint villages and medieval towns, France's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage guarantee an enchanting experience.

It might be the last on this list, but as a solo female traveler, you can still visit it without feeling at risk.

Here’s our rank:

• Steps taken to protect women - 3/5

• Friendliness ranking - 2/5

• Gender-based violence & crime rates - 2/5

• Overall accessibility - 3/5

• Global Peace Index - 3/5

• Gender Gap Index - 3/5

Wander woman tip: Learn a few basic French phrases like "bonjour" and "merci" to show respect and make connections with locals.

Honorary mentions: Cities worth recognizing

According to a study conducted by InsureMyTrip, Medina in Saudi Arabia was ranked as the safest city for solo female travelers. Chiang Mai in Thailand and Dubai were placed second and third, respectively, with a score of 9.04 out of 10. Kyoto in Japan and Macau in China rounded out the top five.

Top tips to stay safe from seasoned solo travelers

Being cautious is essential no matter where you travel, even in super safe places. Learn from other seasoned travelers for the best tips!

Our in-house wandering women shared specific pro tips through our interviews to add to your solo travel toolkit:

• Plan your night - If you plan to drink, plan your night to avoid last-minute issues. Arrange your transportation with apps like Uber and let a friend know your plans for the night.

• Look for female hosts - Connect with female hosts and travelers for better safety. Use apps like Couchsurfing or browse Instagram and Facebook groups to find local women in the area.

• Keep yourself safe by sharing your location. Always share your location with your family or friends, especially if you go out alone.

• Avoid clubbing and bar hopping alone. If you do go out, keep an eye on your drinks and belongings.

• Thoroughly research your destination before you go. Use Google Maps to favorite and mark all the attractions you plan to visit and your accommodation so you always know where you are.

• Have copies of all your documents - Avoid carrying your passport or ID and leave it at your accommodation when you go out. Make sure it's safely locked up. Remember to upload your travel documents to your iVisa app to have them with you wherever you go.

• List your emergency contacts and keep them with you at all times. For example, have a note in your wallet or a digital document on your phone.

• Never leave your belongings unattended - NEVER! Not your food or your drinks.

In conclusion, don't shy away from exploring the world, especially all the countries on our list. Instead, embrace the chance to have some alone time and plan an adventure with us!

Start planning your trip by first checking what documents you need to travel. All you need to do is decide on a location, and we at iVisa can help you with the rest! We are here to help take some of the weight off your shoulders and leave you some extra time to plan the trip of your solo dreams!