Few things are more impactful than solo travel and the research shows that it’s gaining in popularity — especially among women. For one, it's empowering. Two, it brings out the most resourceful side of you; a side you may not have known exists. 

Women should be able to do what they want wherever they want to do it. The world is heading in the right direction when it comes to equal rights, however incidents of violence against women are still high in many countries throughout the world. Sadly, one of the first things women are taught as young girls is to always keep a friend nearby. 

I look forward to the day when women don’t even have to search for lists of safe places for solo travel, but that day isn’t here yet. Some countries are safer for women solo travelers than others, so that’s the most important factor that went into these picks. However, safety wasn’t the only consideration. 

Our team weighed a number of variables such as women’s rights records, the data of women solo travelers, Instagram hashtags, and the ability of a country to satisfy your desire for great food, adventure, and picturesque scenery. 

After considering all of this, these are the best 7 countries for women solo travelers:

1) Portugal

Portugal has been tagged on Instagram nearly 40 million times — and for good reason. With a good record of women’s rights and safety, female solo travelers can relax and enjoy the visual feast of the surrounding scenery and the equally tantalizing food. Beaches, castles, dramatic cliffs, snorkeling, surfings — you name it, you got it. 

2) Spain

Women solo travel is hardly a new concept in Spain. In fact, between the tapas, the paella, the architecture, the Mediterranean coastline, and the everyday way of life in cities like Barcelona, Spain is practically designed for female solo travel. 

If you’re a history lover, then it doesn’t get any better than this country. For foodies, be sure not to show up to dinner before 9 p.m. The fun begins and ends late on the Iberian Peninsula. 

3) New Zealand

When it comes to adventure, New Zealand is the capital of the entire world. Bilbo Baggins was one of the first solo travelers in New Zealand, however, female thrillseekers can also find plenty to see and do down there. 

Even if you aren’t a Lord of The Rings fan, you can indulge in the natural beauty of the endless rivers and streams, the majestic mountain ranges, and the sports such as bungee jumping, horseback riding, boating, and fishing. Towards the North Island, you’ll find active volcanoes, vibrantly-colored lakes, and heavenly beaches. Towards the south, you’ll enjoy snowy peaks, glaciers, and an ocean teeming with whales and seals. 

4) Indonesia

Indonesia has become an epicenter for self-discovery. The great thing is that there’s an abundance of expats and other internationals, so you can go solo or pick up company along the way. 

If you’ve never thought about Indonesia per se, you’re likely familiar with Bali and it’s perfectly Instagrammable beaches. As a remote traveller or digital nomad, you’ll find the wifi does the job and there are loads of cafes to work from as a bonus. 

5) Japan

Right off the bat, Japan has an extremely low crime rate, which earns it major points for women solo travel. On top of that, the food is exquisite, you’ll find great hiking trails, UNESCO sites, and ramen counters around every corner. 

6) Switzerland

Dead center in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is a country with a long-standing reputation of peace. The neutrality the nation is known for has contributed to its cultural diversity, various attractions, and stunning cosmopolitan landscapes surrounded by the world famous Swiss Alps. 

While it’s a politically safe country, Switzerland is also a personally safe country for women, especially those traveling alone. Thanks to rock climbing, skiing, and hiking it’s incredibly fun, so you can be extra care-free during your stay. 

7) Iceland

Iceland is a place of natural extremes. While 15 percent of the country is indeed covered in ice, it also features more than 20 active volcanoes, so beneath all that frozen ground, there’s tremendous fire; hence why Iceland is known for its geothermal hot springs. 

It would be easy to assume there’s not a lot going on in Iceland, but its capital, Reykjavik, has a bustling nightlife. To top it off, Iceland is ranked number one in the world on the Global Peace Index, making it extremely safe for women solo travelers.