Looking for a challenge? After my article on 5 Destinations for the First Time Traveller I decided to write a second one for more adventurous or bolder destinations. These countries would suit a first time traveller who feels quite confident about going it alone or perhaps someone with previous solo experience, looking to push themselves a bit more. I’m not saying these are super hard places to travel to but they may be less touristy or ‘off the beaten track’ or perhaps English might not be as wildly spoken or displayed at train stations, etc. These countries are all fantastic places to visit with varied landscapes and lots of culture.
Peru
Good because: spectacular scenery, cheap, easy transportation
With every climate from mountains, desert, ocean and rainforests, Peru is a stunning country and the landscapes will truly take your breath away. I found it surprisingly less scary than I had built up in my mind. Many people told me not to go whilst relating all the horror stories they had heard on the news, etc. I never felt unsafe here and found it easy to travel around the country. The bus company Cruz del Sur is fabulous and I would recommend using that over a public bus as they can sometimes drive dangerously. Asking hostel staff which public transport would be safe to use is a good idea. It’s also a cheap place to travel with adventurous foods to try such as guinea pig, if you’re brave enough!
Bolivia
Good because: amazing landscapes, cheap, good hostels
Bolivia is another country with rugged, spectacular and diverse scenery. A popular tour is the 3 day 4×4 tour, over the Bolivian salt flats and surrounding landscape. The salt flats are reason alone to visit here. Bolivia is also slightly cheaper if you’re looking do a rainforest tour, as opposed to neighbouring country Peru. Transport is not quite as good quality as Peru but long bus rides are definitely worth it as the landscape is pretty amazing (plus they’re super cheap). Although they may not have good English, the locals here are very welcoming and there’s some great friendly hostels. It’s always easy to find a travel buddy if wanted.
Tanzania
Good because: incredible wildlife, cultural, friendly locals
There is something special about Africa and I’m sure Tanzania will not disappoint. I travelled with a tour group to the Serengeti and then to Zanzibar, with the second part of my trip situated in the capital city of Arusha. This is where I volunteered with children at an orphanage. The safari was incredible, sleeping in a tent under the stars and waking to beautiful sunrises, whilst the volunteering threw me into the local streets and hustle and bustle of the city. It can seem intimidating at first but street sellers are generally just curious and want to chat. If you’re looking for great adventures but also to be thrown into local life, talking with friendly locals, learning how they live, then Tanzania is for you.
India
Good because: energetic, cultural, beautiful attractions
I travelled to India with a tour group as I felt more comfortable that way but hear of many women travelling alone there with no problems. It’s a country where as a solo female, it will be best to keep yourself covered and travel during the day but I see no reason why you shouldn’t go alone, it’s just down to how confident you feel. Although sometimes hard to book, the sleeper trains are very good, as well as the English of most locals. There are numerous hostels around so ask other travellers for advice as you go, or make friends and travel together. This country of ‘no rules’ has some beautiful attractions to visit and by simply just soaking up the way of life, you’ll unlikely get bored. India is a crazy, loud, colourful, aromatic, cultural country, that will leave you feeling drained but fulfilled!
Sri Lanka
Good because: yummy food, relaxed, beautiful countryside
I would describe Sri Lanka as a mix of India and Thailand, with a calmer feel and friendlier, more relaxed locals than India. Travelling as a woman I would suggest to be careful at night but during the day found it pretty safe. The beaches down South are gorgeous and the rainforest up North is full of tea plantations and cultural dance shows. There are also mountains for day hikes that leave you with stunning views from the top. Food is delicious and transport is prettygood but it’s easier to book a taxi if there is a group of you, as it can sometimes work out cheaper or the same than public transport. Sri Lanka has many things to see from, wildlife, temples, rainforests, mountains, fishing villages and cities. The scenery is pretty magical and with it being a small country, you’ll never have to travel for too long, leaving you more time to soak up the beauty of this place.
Hope you enjoyed reading 5 Adventurous Countries for Solo Female Travel … why not take a look at 5 Reasons Why Every Girl Should Travel Solo
Remember to write all of your adventures down. It’s a great way to connect with yourself whilst on the road, plus amusing reading back several years later! I love this one By Marco Polo. Find it on Amazon UK or Amazon US
4 Comments
Some of my favourite countries ! Great tips too! Thanks for sharing!
thank you!
These are all great places! I’ve been to all countries and I have similar opinions to you! Great blog!
thank you 😀