The Best Places in the World for Solo Travel

There was a time in the not-so-distant past when the phrase “solo travel” was most likely to evoke imagery of Julia Roberts cycling down a grassy path in Bali, or of Diane Lane dragging her suitcase toward a Tuscan villa. This cinematic (and perhaps a little idealistic) depiction of what it looks like to embark on a solo adventure has begun to fizzle out, and now, the notion of taking a trip with oneself isn’t gawked at, but rather, quite common. (Especially for women, which is a demographic that Timbuktu’s Head of Sales Jonty Medcalf says made up the vast majority of the tour operator’s solo trips booked in 2024.)

There’s a certain sort of freedom that comes with traveling alone; the promise of complete autonomy, a flexible itinerary (or rigid, if that’s your bag), and the very real opportunity for a revelatory experience that simply isn’t on offer if you’re trekking around with a group. Perhaps you’re honoring a life milestone such as the loss of a loved one or a divorce—solo travel is great for healing. Or maybe it’s merely a desire to reconnect with yourself in a beautiful setting. Whatever the backstory, there’s a solo journey to meet you where you’re at. And this isn’t just a young person’s pursuit—solo trips are for travelers of all backgrounds. “One of the most inspiring solo travelers we’ve had was an 85-year-old woman who explored South Africa, Namibia, Victoria Falls, and Botswana,” Medcalf shares. “She even celebrated her birthday by bungee jumping at Victoria Falls.”

A few considerations stand out when choosing a solo travel destination, beginning with whether you choose to curate your own itinerary or to let an agency do the work for you (there are pros and cons to both). Next, you’ll want to pick somewhere that offers a strong network of guides. “They are so key in imparting their expertise but also how to respectfully follow local custom,” Black Tomato co-founder Tom Marchant says. “This is part and parcel to being a conscientious traveler.” Also, an easy-to-use transportation system of trains, ferries, and buses is crucial, particularly if you’re not comfortable renting a car. Countries that are regarded as being welcoming are especially worth prioritizing. “What unifies so many diverse cultures [that are] great for solo travel is they love to invite travelers into their world and their community and extended family,” Marchant says. And lastly, safety is paramount for solo travelers. “Destinations that offer secure environments, reliable local support, and well-organized logistics are ideal,” Medcalf says, adding that their services arrange all details for clients, from airport transfers to guided tours.

With this in mind, we rounded up some of the best places in the world to travel solo in 2025, including far-flung destinations rich in culture, sun-soaked locales fit for an outdoor excursion, and even a few retreats tailored specifically to parties of one.

Cultural immersion in Bali

Photo: Hoshinoya Bali