Destinations Where Solo Women Should Exercise More Caution
These countries or cities aren’t inherently off-limits, but they often rank lower on safety indexes for solo women:
1. India
- Why Caution? Cultural gender norms, occasional street harassment, and inconsistent law enforcement.
- How to Visit Safely:
- Stick to organized small-group tours or hire a female guide.
- Book female-only accommodations or hotels with strong reviews from solo women.
- Dress conservatively (cover shoulders and knees).
- Use pre-booked private transfers or trusted taxi apps like Uber or Ola.
2. Egypt
- Why Caution? Catcalling and groping can be issues in tourist areas.
- How to Visit Safely:
- Consider booking a reputable tour operator that caters to female travelers.
- Visit major sites like Luxor and the pyramids early in the day.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid isolated areas.
3. Morocco
- Why Caution? Aggressive market behavior and gendered expectations.
- How to Visit Safely:
- Stay in riads with strong female reviews.
- Travel with a female guide or group for outings in the medinas.
- Be assertive and learn a few key phrases in French or Arabic.
4. Brazil (certain cities like Rio de Janeiro)
- Why Caution? Petty crime, street safety at night.
- How to Visit Safely:
- Avoid favelas unless with a guided, reputable group.
- Stay in safer neighborhoods like Ipanema or Leblon.
- Use Uber or official taxis—don’t walk alone at night.
5. Mexico (non-resort or rural areas)
- Why Caution? Crime varies heavily by region; some areas have cartel activity or corrupt policing.
- How to Visit Safely:
- Stick to safer cities like Mérida, Oaxaca, and San Miguel de Allende.
- Avoid traveling at night between cities.
- Check State Department travel advisories by region.
6. Turkey (especially rural or conservative regions)
- Why Caution? Gender dynamics vary widely across the country.
- How to Visit Safely:
- Istanbul is generally safe in well-populated areas—use apps like BiTaksi for transport.
- Avoid discussing politics or religion with strangers.
- Stay in tourist-friendly areas with clear safety reviews.
7. South Africa
- Why Caution? High crime rates in urban areas.
- How to Visit Safely:
- Use secure transport (private drivers, guided day trips).
- Avoid walking in city centers alone after dark.
- Stay in secure accommodations in areas like Cape Town’s Green Point or Camps Bay.
General Tips for Visiting Higher-Risk Places as a Solo Female Traveler
Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, leave or change your plan. No explanation needed.
Use a Safety App: Apps like Noonlight, TripWhistle, or GeoSure can alert contacts and provide real-time safety info.
Check In Regularly: Share your location with someone you trust back home.
Avoid Attention: Dress modestly when appropriate and avoid flashy jewelry or gear.
Learn the Local Scams: Read up on common tourist scams in advance.
Stay in Female-Friendly Hotels or Hostels: Look for female-only dorms or women-run guesthouses.
