Countries Women Should Avoid Traveling to Alone

Here are our tips for solo travelers: What to avoid so you can return home safe and sound.

Modern emancipated women are building careers, buying cars and apartments, and jetting off on solo vacations. Why not? Resort romances are easy and come with no strings attached—especially in sunny countries filled with out-of-work Casanovas.

But when traveling alone, especially with some adventure, personal safety is paramount. Here are our tips for solo travelers: What to avoid so you can return home safe and sound.

Solo travel can be exciting and enriching, but there are countries where women's safety is a significant concern. If you’re planning a solo trip, take note of these countries where it may be risky to travel without company.

Mexico

Although a popular tourist destination, certain regions in Mexico still have high crime rates. Kidnappings, robberies, and sexual assaults, especially targeting female tourists, are considered serious risks. Be extra cautious when choosing areas to visit.

Brazil

Despite its beautiful beaches and famous carnivals, Brazil has one of the highest crime rates in the world. Robberies, assaults, and even kidnappings can occur not only in poorer neighborhoods but also in tourist hotspots.

India

India is a country with rich culture and history, but women traveling alone may experience aggressive attention from local men. Public hygiene issues, unsanitary conditions, and the persistence of street vendors can make the trip uncomfortable and unsafe. Avoid walking alone at night.  India (Goa not included) .This is not the place for refined ladies. Public restrooms alone will make you want to run away, let alone the smell. Everywhere you go, there’s extreme unsanitary conditions. No amount of antiseptics will help. While you look around, a fly will land on your water bottle, and—hello dysentery.

Algeria

Algeria is a country with high crime rates and terrorist activity. For women, it is particularly unsafe to travel alone due to potential risks of kidnappings and assaults. You may also face cultural barriers and hostility towards Western lifestyles.

Egypt

Although Egypt’s pyramids and the Red Sea attract thousands of tourists, women traveling alone can experience unwelcome attention from local men. Harassment is fairly common in Egypt, especially in tourist areas and markets.

Morocco

Morocco is an exotic country with magical medinas and deserts, but female travelers often report excessive attention from local men. The crime rate is relatively low, but harassment can spoil the experience.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a country with very strict laws and cultural norms. Women are not allowed to travel without male guardianship, which imposes severe restrictions. It’s important to be prepared to follow the local customs and rules, which can be very stringent for foreign women.

Turkey (some regions)

Although Turkey has a well-developed tourism industry, traveling to certain areas, especially near the Syrian border, can be unsafe for women. Major tourist cities like Istanbul and Antalya are generally safe, but in remote villages, it’s wise to be more cautious.

Colombia

While Colombia is becoming increasingly popular among tourists, the problem of drug trafficking and criminal gangs is still prevalent. Women are advised to be cautious, especially in remote areas and at night.

Pakistan

Pakistan is a country with high instability and terrorist activity. It’s especially unsafe for women to travel alone, due to cultural and religious barriers, as well as the increased risk of assaults and harassment.

To ensure your travels are both enjoyable and safe, it’s essential to thoroughly research a country’s situation before visiting and consider alternative, safer destinations.