15 Most Dangerous (And 15 Safest) Countries For Female Travelers

Traveling solo as a woman is empowering, liberating, and often unforgettable—but it also comes with its own set of challenges. While some destinations welcome female travelers with open arms, others still pose significant risks that require extra caution.

Knowing where you’re most likely to feel safe, supported, and respected can make all the difference. Whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or calm, choosing the right environment is key to making your journey truly rewarding.

1. Pakistan

Conservative social norms create significant challenges for women exploring alone. Unwanted attention happens frequently, especially in rural regions outside tourist zones.

Pakistan’s strict gender expectations mean female travelers should dress modestly and consider hiring local guides. Many women report feeling uncomfortable in public spaces without male companions.

2. India

Crowded urban areas demand constant vigilance, particularly on public transportation. Unwanted attention ranges from staring to persistent conversations.

The contrasting experiences for female travelers in India depend greatly on region and setting. While sacred sites and tourist destinations offer structure, solo exploration requires careful planning and cultural awareness regarding appropriate dress and behavior.

3. South Africa

High crime rates in certain urban areas create genuine concerns for travelers of all genders. Muggings and theft happen even in daylight hours in some neighborhoods.

South Africa’s natural beauty often masks its safety challenges. Female travelers should stick to tourist areas, avoid walking alone at night, and consider guided tours for exploring townships or remote regions.

4. Egypt

Street harassment occurs frequently in urban areas, creating uncomfortable situations for solo explorers. Local guides can provide both cultural context and a buffer against unwanted attention.

The ancient wonders draw millions, but female travelers often face persistent catcalling and staring in Egypt. Modest dress is essential, though even conservative clothing doesn’t guarantee freedom from harassment in crowded markets or public spaces.

5. Morocco

Vibrant markets and stunning architecture come with persistent attention that can feel overwhelming. Solo female travelers report frequent catcalling and unwanted conversation attempts, especially in medinas.

Morocco’s beauty is sometimes overshadowed by aggressive vendors and street harassment. Guided tours provide safer access to historic sites, while modest clothing helps minimize unwanted attention.

6. Mexico

Regional safety varies dramatically across this diverse country. Tourist zones like Cancun maintain strong security, while border regions present serious risks in Mexico.

Its reputation for danger requires nuanced understanding. Female travelers should research specific destinations, avoid isolated areas, use registered taxis, and maintain awareness of surroundings, especially after dark in urban centers.

7. Turkey

Coastal resorts offer dramatically different experiences than conservative inland regions. Women often report feeling comfortable in Istanbul’s tourist districts but face more scrutiny elsewhere.

Turkey’s complex cultural landscape means female travelers might experience everything from complete comfort to persistent harassment. Major tourist sites generally feel secure, while remote areas may present greater challenges regarding gender expectations.

8. Brazil

Vibrant culture and stunning beaches come with serious safety considerations. Petty theft happens frequently in tourist areas, while more serious crimes occur in certain neighborhoods of Brazil.

Its reputation for crime isn’t unwarranted, especially in major cities like Rio. Female travelers should avoid flashy jewelry, use hotel safes, stay in well-lit areas, and consider group tours for exploring favelas or nightlife districts.

9. Saudi Arabia

Recent reforms have opened doors for international visitors, though strict cultural norms remain. Female travelers no longer need male guardians but should respect conservative dress codes.

Saudi Arabia’s developing tourism sector means infrastructure for independent female travelers is still evolving. Major hotels in Riyadh and Jeddah provide comfortable environments, while religious sites maintain strict gender segregation and dress requirements.

10. Colombia

Dramatic safety improvements over recent decades have transformed tourist experiences. Certain neighborhoods in major cities still require caution, especially after dark.

The vibrant culture attracts increasing numbers of solo female travelers. Stick to well-populated areas of Colombia, use registered taxi services, watch drinks carefully in nightlife districts, and research neighborhood safety before booking accommodations.

11. Bangladesh

Dense urban environments can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. Staring and unwanted photographs happen frequently, particularly in areas unaccustomed to Western tourists.

Bangladesh’s limited tourism infrastructure means female travelers stand out significantly. Conservative dress is essential, while arranging local guides provides both cultural insight and a buffer against unwanted attention in markets and public spaces.

12. Russia

Political tensions have complicated travel logistics in recent years. Major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg feature efficient public transportation and tourist infrastructure.

Its vast geography means safety conditions vary dramatically by region. Female travelers in Russia generally report feeling safe in central tourist districts but should research current conditions carefully and maintain awareness of political sensitivities.

13. Iraq

Ongoing conflicts and security concerns make casual tourism nearly impossible. Government travel advisories consistently warn against non-essential travel throughout most regions.

Iraq’s extraordinary history and archaeology remain largely inaccessible to most travelers. The Kurdish region occasionally hosts small numbers of adventurous tourists, but female travelers face both security risks and significant cultural restrictions throughout the country.

14. Nigeria

Urban centers require significant safety awareness and local knowledge. Transportation safety varies dramatically between official services and informal options.

The vibrant culture and business opportunities in Nigeria draw visitors despite security challenges. Female travelers should arrange airport transfers in advance, use hotel transportation when possible, and avoid displaying valuables or traveling alone after dark.

15. Iran

Strict dress codes require all women to wear headscarves and modest clothing in public spaces. Foreign visitors report experiencing warm hospitality despite cultural restrictions.

Iran’s ancient sites and remarkable architecture attract adventurous travelers willing to navigate complex visa requirements and dress codes. Female tourists must wear head coverings and loose clothing that covers arms and legs throughout their visit.

16. Spain

Pedestrian-friendly cities and reliable public transportation create ideal conditions for solo exploration. Evening social culture in Spain means streets stay busy until late, reducing isolation concerns.

Its welcoming atmosphere makes female travelers feel at ease in most situations. While pickpocketing occurs in tourist areas, violent crime remains rare. Women report walking comfortably alone in most urban areas.

17. Japan

Meticulous organization and consideration for public welfare create exceptionally safe conditions. Even late-night urban areas feel secure, with well-lit streets and helpful signage in multiple languages.

Japan’s remarkable safety record makes it a favorite for first-time solo female travelers. Clean, punctual public transportation connects major sites, while cultural respect for personal space minimizes uncomfortable interactions in public settings.

18. Norway

Progressive social policies create environments where women move freely without harassment. Outdoor activities from hiking to northern lights viewing feel accessible regardless of group size.

Its commitment to gender equality translates into practical benefits for female travelers. Public transportation runs reliably even in remote areas of Norway, while emergency services maintain high standards throughout the country.

19. Canada

Friendly locals often go out of their way to assist tourists with directions or recommendations. Major cities feature well-maintained public spaces with good lighting and emergency services.

Canada’s reputation for politeness translates into practical safety for female travelers. While remote wilderness requires proper preparation, urban centers provide reliable infrastructure and low harassment rates for solo explorers.

20. Switzerland

Precision extends beyond watches to public transportation and emergency services. Solo hikers enjoy well-marked trails and reliable infrastructure even in alpine regions of Switzerland.

Here, the efficiency creates ideal conditions for independent female travelers. Clean, punctual trains connect picturesque villages with major cities, while low crime rates mean women report feeling comfortable exploring alone, even after dark.

21. Finland

Stellar gender equality metrics translate into real-world comfort for women in public spaces. Winter darkness is offset by excellent lighting and safe transportation options.

Finland’s progressive social environment makes it exceptionally welcoming for female travelers. Low crime rates extend from Helsinki’s design districts to remote northern wilderness areas, where outdoor activities remain accessible regardless of travel group composition.

22. New Zealand

Adventure-seeking solo travelers find welcoming infrastructure from hostels to hiking trails. Helpful locals and fellow backpackers create natural community even for those traveling alone.

The outdoor focus and safety record make it perfect for women seeking independence without constant vigilance. Well-maintained national parks in New Zealand feature clear trail information, while hostels often organize group activities that build instant connections.

23. Portugal

Warm hospitality combines with low harassment rates to create comfortable exploration environments. Historic districts remain lively into evening hours, reducing isolation concerns.

Portugal’s affordability and safety make it increasingly popular among solo female travelers. Public transportation connects major sites efficiently, while tourist areas maintain good lighting and security presence even during late dinner hours.

24. Ireland

Legendary hospitality creates natural safety networks for solo explorers. Irish pub culture means social connections happen easily, while locals often offer directions or recommendations without prompting.

Its friendly reputation proves accurate for female travelers navigating both cities and countryside. Public transportation connects major sites, while walkable town centers maintain good lighting and low threat levels even after dark.

25. Iceland

Virtually nonexistent violent crime creates uniquely relaxed travel conditions. Nature exploration feels accessible regardless of group size, with well-maintained facilities and clear emergency information.

Iceland’s combination of safety and stunning landscapes makes it ideal for women seeking solo adventures. Small towns maintain strong community presence, while natural attractions feature good infrastructure and reliable mobile connectivity.

26. Netherlands

Excellent cycling infrastructure creates transportation independence day and night. Well-lit urban areas maintain activity in Netherlands into evening hours, while comprehensive public transit connects major sites.

The practical approach to safety benefits female travelers through reliable infrastructure and progressive social attitudes. Amsterdam’s canals remain well-populated even after dark, while smaller cities maintain good lighting and emergency services.

27. Austria

Pristine public spaces reflect broader societal order that benefits all travelers. Alpine villages and major cities alike maintain excellent lighting and clear signage for navigation.

Austria’s combination of cultural richness and practical safety makes it ideal for solo female exploration. Vienna’s coffee houses offer comfortable solo dining experiences, while mountain towns provide well-marked hiking trails with reliable emergency services.

28. Denmark

Progressive gender attitudes create comfortable public environments virtually free from harassment. Excellent urban planning includes well-lit streets and reliable public transportation even during late hours.

Its approach to equality translates into tangible benefits for female travelers. Copenhagen’s bike lanes and pedestrian areas make independent exploration simple, while the general atmosphere remains relaxed and welcoming.

29. Australia

Outdoor adventure combines with excellent safety infrastructure across urban and natural settings. Emergency services maintain high standards nationwide, with good communication networks even in remote areas.

Australia’s relaxed attitude doesn’t compromise safety for female travelers. Major cities offer reliable public transportation and well-lit streets, while natural attractions maintain clear signage and visitor information about potential risks.

30. Germany

Reliable infrastructure creates predictable travel experiences across urban and rural settings. Comprehensive public transportation connects major attractions in Germany, while clear signage helps navigation even without local language skills.

Its practical efficiency benefits female travelers through well-maintained public spaces and transportation networks. Small towns feel as secure as major cities, with good lighting and emergency services available throughout tourist areas.