Travelling alone as a woman can be an incredibly empowering experience, but safety is (understandably) a top concern. Fortunately, many countries around the world are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also statistically safe, welcoming, and well-prepared for solo female travellers. To help you plan your next adventure with confidence, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 safest countries for solo female travel, backed by data from the Global Peace Index (GPI), Women’s Danger Index, and firsthand traveller experiences.
What Makes a Country Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Safety isn’t just about low crime rates—it’s also about:
✔ Gender equality (legal protections, cultural attitudes)
✔ Reliable public transport (easy & safe to navigate)
✔ Tourist-friendly infrastructure (well-lit streets, English proficiency)
✔ Low harassment rates (respectful local culture)
Now, let’s dive into the best destinations where you can explore freely and fearlessly!
1. Iceland
Why it’s safe:
- Ranked #1 on the Global Peace Index (2023) for over a decade.
- Strong gender equality (topped the World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Report).
- Low crime rates and a culture that prioritises respect for women.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Stunning landscapes (waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs).
✅ Easy to navigate—most locals speak English.
✅ Safe public transport and hitchhiking culture (though always use caution).
2. Japan
Why it’s safe:
- Extremely low violent crime rates.
- Efficient, clean, and safe public transport (even at night).
- A culture of politeness and respect.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Women-only train cars and accommodations.
✅ Incredible food, history, and cherry blossoms.
✅ Highly walkable cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.
3. Switzerland
Why it’s safe:
- One of the lowest crime rates in Europe.
- Excellent infrastructure and reliable trains.
- High standard of living and gender equality.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Breathtaking Alps and fairytale villages.
✅ Easy day trips between cities.
✅ Multilingual locals (German, French, Italian, English).
4. New Zealand
Why it’s safe:
- Ranked 2nd on the GPI (2023).
- Friendly locals and a strong backpacker culture.
- Low population density = less harassment.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Epic outdoor adventures (hiking, bungee jumping, beaches).
✅ Well-established tourist routes (great for first-time solo travellers).
✅ Safe hitchhiking and campervan culture.
5. Canada
Why it’s safe:
- Consistently ranks in the top 10 safest countries.
- Progressive attitudes toward women.
- Clean, well-organized cities.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Diverse landscapes (mountains, lakes, cities).
✅ Easy to meet fellow travellers in hostels.
✅ English/French widely spoken.
6. Finland
Why it’s safe:
- Low crime, high trust in society.
- Excellent public safety and gender equality.
- Helsinki is one of the safest capital cities.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Northern Lights & midnight sun.
✅ Sauna culture (a must-try!).
✅ Efficient public transport.
7. Denmark
Why it’s safe:
- One of the happiest and safest countries.
- Bike-friendly cities (Copenhagen is a dream).
- Low levels of street harassment.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Cozy hygge vibes (perfect for slow travel).
✅ Easy train access to Sweden & Germany.
✅ English is widely spoken.
8. Ireland
Why it’s safe:
- Friendly, welcoming locals.
- Low violent crime rates.
- Compact, easy-to-explore cities.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Lively pub culture (great for meeting people).
✅ Stunning coastal hikes (Cliffs of Moher, Wild Atlantic Way).
✅ English-speaking with a rich history.
9. Austria
Why it’s safe:
- Low crime, clean cities.
- Safe and punctual trains.
- Rich culture (music, art, history).
Solo travel perks:
✅ Fairytale architecture (Vienna, Salzburg).
✅ Alpine hikes & Christmas markets.
✅ High English proficiency.
10. Slovenia
Why it’s safe:
- One of Europe’s most underrated safe spots.
- Low crime, peaceful atmosphere.
- Small size = easy to explore.
Solo travel perks:
✅ Lake Bled (a must-see!).
✅ Affordable compared to Western Europe.
✅ Friendly locals & great hiking.
Essential Safety Apps for Solo Female Travelers
bSafe
– Acts as a personal alarm with GPS tracking.
– Features “Follow Me” mode for real-time location sharing with trusted contacts.
– Includes a fake call button and SOS alarm that alerts your emergency network.
Noonlight
– Works like a digital panic button—hold the screen until you’re safe.
– Connects directly to local emergency services in many countries.
– Tracks your location and shares critical info with responders.
Citymapper
– Provides real-time transit updates for major cities worldwide.
– Alerts you when to get off buses/trains to avoid wrong stops.
Meetup
– Find local events and group activities to meet people safely.
– Great for language exchanges, hiking groups, or cultural tours.
Tengah
– Eliminates haggling anxiety. No more stressful negotiations where you might feel pressured as a woman shopping alone
– Prevents overpaying. Avoid the “tourist tax” with real prices paid by other travellers at that exact market
– AI-powered price checks. Simply snap a photo of an item to instantly see fair prices (perfect when you’re unsure)
– Works offline. Stay protected from scams even without WiFi/data in remote markets
– Builds better vendor relationships. Fair transactions lead to more respectful interactions
– Stretches your travel budget. Save money for more experiences or safety upgrades
– Reduces unwanted attention. Confidently knowing fair prices means less back-and-forth with persistent sellers
– Gives local shopping confidence. Feel empowered to explore markets alone without fear of being taken advantage of.
Safeture
– Provides real-time safety alerts about protests, weather, or crime in your area.
– Used by many corporate travellers for risk assessment.
TripWhistle Global SOS
– Instantly connects you to emergency numbers worldwide.
– Stores your medical info for quick access in crises.
For more travel app suggestions, check out our blog post – Travel Recap: Essential Apps for Solo Female Travellers
Final Tips for Safe Solo Female Travel
✔ Trust your instincts—if something feels off, leave.
✔ Share your itinerary with someone back home.
✔ Stay in well-reviewed hostels/hotels (female-only dorms if preferred).
✔ Dress modestly if local customs suggest it.
✔ Use common sense (avoid dark alleys at night, keep valuables secure).
Go Forth & Explore Fearlessly!
Solo female travel is about freedom, growth, and discovering just how capable you are. These countries offer not just safety, but unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, trust yourself, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
