As more women choose to explore the world on their own, it’s important to recognize the potential dangers that come with solo travel. While traveling solo can be an empowering and exhilarating experience, it’s crucial to stay informed about the safety risks in different parts of the world.
Most Dangerous Countries for Solo Women Travelers
Sadly, there are still places where female travelers face a heightened risk of violence and harassment. As a result, it’s more important than ever to prioritize the safety of women on the road. To help you plan your next adventure with confidence, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most dangerous countries for solo female travelers to avoid.
1. South Africa
This country is known for its variety, breathtaking landscapes, and various types of African animals. It is an attractive option for a trip, but it’s not so safe for solo trips. South Africa ranks as the most dangerous country for women traveling alone. It is so unsafe that a female solo traveler would be advised not to hike, drive or even walk alone.
2. Brazil
If you have plans to take a solo trip to Brazil, you should know that the country ranks second on this list. When an investigation was carried out about women feeling safe to walk alone at night, the country got a meager percentage of 28. Therefore, the advice would be not to go at all, but if you must, you are advised to be on your guard.
3. Russia
Russia is among the top ten countries with laws that try to reduce women’s participation in society and the economy. Not only that, but this country also has the second-highest rate of intentional violence against women. What does this mean? It means it is best to visit this country with some company than all alone.
4. Mexico
Coincidentally, this is the most visited country out of the top five. This is worrisome because the place is increasingly unsafe for female solo travelers. In fact, female tourists are advised to stay close to the resort or hotel and not wander too far for fear of getting hurt or attacked.
5. Iran
Iran has a high level of gender discrimination and inequality, placing it at number five. Women in Iran find it unsafe to walk alone at night, and there is a high level of intimate partner violence. Solo female travelers also must remember that it is a religious country, so they must dress modestly and cover their heads to avoid harassment or incitement.
6. The United States of America
This is a surprising, not-so-surprising find. The United States of America ranked in the top 20 of the most dangerous countries for female solo travelers. Not only that, but it also is “the most dangerous Western country in the world.”
7. United Arab Emirates
Despite being one of the most popular tourist destinations, the UAE needs to work on its security to ensure protection for female tourists. The UAE has the seventh-worst global gender gap index score at 0.649 and the second-worst legal discrimination score at 47.
8. Vietnam
Vietnam is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. But solo visitors who want to visit here would have to be extra careful, as it may go horribly wrong. The country has a high report of violence against women.
9. China
China, home to numerous populated cities, is included in the list. Traveling to China alone is not the most brilliant idea. The place has the second-highest percentage of domestic violence against women. According to various travelers, some parts of the country can be extremely dangerous — especially to visitors.
10. Hungary
There might be better options than this popular tourist destination for women planning solo trips. If this country is on your bucket list, please do proper research and don’t go without tools for self-defense! Solo traveling can be therapeutic, especially if you are on a journey to find yourself. But no matter where you plan to travel, follow your instinct, be on your guard, and try to research the city to know its culture, so you fit in better.
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This article was produced by Our Woven Journey. Featured Image Credit: J Walters/Shutterstock
Demi Michele is a seasoned traveler, turned freelance writer. Having explored most states and ventured internationally, her love for outdoor cafes, new cuisines, and cultural immersion shines through her wide range of articles. Based in Texas with her family and two Scottish Terriers, Demi turns her adventures into captivating travel narratives to share with readers.