The Best First-Time Solo Trips for Women
Walking the Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago is a historic pilgrimage across Spain. There are dozens of offical and unofficial Camino de Santiago routes, but the 800 km (500-mile) Camino Frances from St-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago de Compostela is the most popular one. We don’t expect you to do the whole thing at once, though.
Shorter sections, like the final 100 km (62 miles) from Sarria, are ideal for beginners. They’ll give you a taste of the Camino’s magic in a week. You set your pace. You can stop for wine in Rioja or cathedral views in Santiago whenever you want. Going with a local guide will give you that extra feeling of safety and some fascinating local insight, while assisted self-guided options handle logistics like luggage transfers.
You’ll walk through rolling hills, medieval villages, and sunflower fields, staying in cozy albergues where pilgrims share stories over tapas. It’s a spiritual and social journey; yellow arrows guide your every step, so navigation is a breeze for first-timers.
Why it’s one of the best solo trips for women: The Camino has a vibrant pilgrim community and many auberges to rest at whenever you want. It’s a safe, social vibe, perfect for meeting others while enjoying solo freedom.
Walking the Camino de Santiago - Good to Know
Easy to moderate; flat paths with 10-20 km (6-12 miles) daily, minimal elevation.
5-35 days; 7-10 days for shorter sections like Sarria to Santiago.
Beginners, spiritual seekers, or women wanting a social yet flexible trek.
St-Jean-Pied-de-Port for the full thing or Sarria for shorter routes.
Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). Milder weather, fewer crowds.
Getting there
Fly to Madrid or Bilbao; trains/buses to St-Jean-Pied-de-Port (€20-50/ $22-56, 2-4 hours).
Hiking Retreats in Norway
Organized hiking retreats in Norway, like those in the Lofoten Islands or Trolltunga, are packed with stunning fjord views and dramatic cliffs perfect for solo adventurers.
These guided trips range from day hikes to multi-day treks. You’ll be staying in cozy cabins rorbuer (fishermen’s huts), or even high-end accommodations with hot tubs right on the fjords.
Hikes like Trolltunga lead to iconic lookouts, while Lofoten’s rugged paths wind through fishing villages. Ideal for cultural immersion.
On most of these trips, you’ll hike 5-15 km (3-9 miles) daily, surrounded by turquoise waters and midnight sun in summer. Many retreats include yoga or photography sessions for a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The safe, welcoming Norwegian culture makes it ideal for solo women.
Why it’s one of the best solo trips for women: Norway has safe trails and well-organized small-group retreats that foster connection, with high-quality guided options for first-timers.
Hiking Retreats in Norway - Good to Know
Easy to moderate; short hikes with minor elevation gain.
3-10 days for retreats; day hikes are also an option.
Beginners or women seeking scenic, low-stress hikes with complete immersion.
Lofoten (Svolvær) or Bergen for Trolltunga.
June-August for midnight sun, mild temps (10-20°C/50-68°F).
Getting there
Fly to Oslo, then to Bodø or Bergen; ferries/buses to Lofoten (€100-200/ $112-224, 4-6 hours).
Wine Walks in Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany’s wine walks will take you through rolling vineyards and medieval hilltop towns like San Gimignano, for the ideal blend of gentle hikes with wine tastings.
You’ll stroll a mild 8-15 km (5-9 miles) daily on paths like the Via Francigena, passing olive groves and sipping plenty of Chianti or Brunello. Nights will be spent in agriturismos or boutique inns, where you get to enjoy farm-fresh pasta after a day’s walk.
These trips are perfect for soaking in Italy’s beauty at a relaxed pace, with well-marked trails and frequent village stops. It’s a sensory delight for solo travelers craving culture.
Why it’s one of the best solo trips for women: Tuscany’s safe, social vibe and frequent cultural stops make it the perfect place to connect with locals or travelers while enjoying personal freedom.
Wine Walks in Tuscany, Italy - Good to Know
Easy; flat to rolling paths, rarely over 100-300 m (328-984 ft) gain.
5-8 days for multi-day walks; weekend options available.
Foodies, beginners, or women wanting a cultural, low-key adventure.
Siena or Florence.
Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) to get mild weather and harvest festivals.
Getting there
Fly to Florence or Pisa; take a train to Siena (€10-15, $11-17, 1-2 hours).
Food & Wine Tours in Spain
Centered in regions like Rioja or Catalonia, food and wine tours in Spain combine short hikes with culinary immersion.
You’ll walk short distances of 5-10 km (3-6 miles) daily through vineyards and villages, stopping at bodegas for Tempranillo tastings or markets for jamón.
We’d definitely recommend exploring Barcelona’s tapas scene or Logroño’s pintxos crawls. These tours mix urban exploration with countryside strolls, which means you’ll get a complete taste of Spain’s vibrant culture. Guided tours include expert-led tastings, while self-guided options provide curated routes.
Perfect for women seeking adventure with flavor!
Why it’s one of the best solo trips for women: Spain is lively, safe, and has a food culture that makes it easy to bond over shared meals while exploring solo.
Food & Wine Tours in Spain - Good to Know
Easy; short, flat walks with minimal elevation.
4-8 days; day trips are also an option.
Food lovers or new hikers who want a cultural, low-effort trip.
Logroño (Rioja), or Barcelona (Catalonia).
Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for harvest season, mild temps.
Getting there
Fly to Barcelona or Madrid, then take a train to Logroño (€15-30/ $17-34, 2-3 hours).
The Best Challenging Solo Trips For Women
These solo trips are for women ready to push their limits with tougher terrain and epic rewards. They offer adventure, but still have some safety nets. Perfect for solo explorers seeking a challenge.
Hiking in Iceland
Iceland’s hikes, like the legendary Laugavegur Trail or the more hidden trails, will take you on an unforgettable journey through volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and hot springs. The adventures here are truly raw and wild.
The 55 km (34-mile) Laugavegur hiking trail from Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk features landscapes that change every mile, from rainbow-colored mountains to volcanoes and steaming geothermal pools.
On most of these hikes, you’ll trek 10-20 km (6-12 miles) daily, camping or staying in huts. Expect unpredictable weather and remote terrain, but clear markers and group-friendly routes ensure safety. Go with a local guide for expert navigation, but if you’re going solo, make sure to bring a GPS or a map.
These are bucket-list trips for anyone, especially bold women.
Why it’s great for solo women: Iceland’s safe, inclusive hiking community and stunning landscapes will empower you to overcome challenges with confidence.
Hiking in Iceland - Good to Know
Moderate to hard; 500-1,000 m (1,640-3,281 ft) of daily gain, uneven terrain.
4-8 days for Laugavegur; shorter & longer hikes available.
Fit women seeking remote, dramatic landscapes and a challenge.
Landmannalaugar for most hikes.
June-August for snow-free trails & long daylight (up to 20 hours!).
Getting there
Fly to Reykjavik; buses to Landmannalaugar (€50-80/ $56-90, 4 hours).
Trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a 170 km (106-mile) loop around western Europe’s tallest mountain. It crosses France, Italy, and Switzerland in a single trek!
You’ll hike a daily average 10-15 km (6-9 miles) through alpine meadows, glaciers, and high passes like Col de la Seigne (2,516 m/8,255 ft) with unyielding Alpine views.
Stays are in rifugios or village inns, where you’ll fuel the hikes ahead with French pastries or Italian espresso. It’s a challenging, but accessible trek with a million different ways to do it. Some companies even offer luxury options, where you’ll stay in a luxe chalet and eat 5-star meals between the hikes!
An absolute classic for adventurous women.
Why it’s great for solo women: The Tour du Mont Blanc’s busy trails and frequent huts are a safe, social environment. It’s ideal for solo women who want to cross a true classic off the bucket list while hiking independently and meeting new people.
Trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc - Good to Know
Moderate to hard; 800-1,200 m (2,625-3,937 ft) daily gain.
7-12 days for the full loop; shorter sections are also available.
Fit women wanting a challenging, social alpine trek.
Chamonix, France.
July through September. You’ll have clear passes and mild weather (15-25°C/59-77°F).
Getting there
Fly to Geneva, and take a bus to Chamonix (€15-20, $17-22, 1 hour).
Hiking (Sections of) the Appalachian Trail
Section hiking the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) means you’re tackling parts of this 3,500 km (2,175-mile) US trail, like Virginia’s Shenandoah or New Hampshire’s White Mountains, without committing to the full thing.
On most of these trips, you’ll hike 10-20 km (6-12 miles) daily through forests, ridges, and streams, depending on the section you choose. You can camp along the trail or stay in the shelters along it.
The A.T. is well-marked. The community there is used to hikers, so you’ll find more amenities and people to talk to than in many other parts of the world. Expect moderate to tough terrain, with occasional tough climbs.
It’s a soulful challenge for solo women, and the best part is that you can fully customize it to your liking. Just find a section near you and go for it!
Why it’s one of the best trips for solo women: The AT’s tight-knit hiker community and frequent shelters just shine with safety and camaraderie. They are perfect for solo women seeking independence.
Hiking (Sections of) the Appalachian Trail - Good to Know
Easy to challenging. Daily gain/loss & terrain depend on your chosen section.
5-14 days for most sections.
Fit women who want a rugged, community-driven adventure.
Too many to count! Our recommendations are Springer Mountain (Georgia) or Harper’s Ferry (West Virginia).
Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). You’l lget mild weather and, more importantly, fewer bugs.
Getting there
Fly to Atlanta (for southern sections) or Boston (for northern). Then, take buses or trains to trailheads.
Exploring the Canyons of Utah & Arizona
Utah and Arizona’s canyons, like Zion, Bryce, or Grand Canyon, are filled to the brim with multi-day treks through red rock slot canyons and desert vistas.
You will generally hike 10-20 km (6-12 miles) daily, encountering many legendary trails like Angels Landing or South Kaibab. You can choose to overnight in lodges or campsites, as well as join ranger-led talks that immerse you into the history of the area.
Just note that the terrain’s tough. There are plenty of steep climbs and the heat can be a challenge. Going with a guide for your first time is a good idea, as they’ll take care of the navigation and safety. Self-guided options work for experienced hikers only.
Why it’s one of the best trips for solo women: Well-patrolled parks and accessible, group-friendly trails. Stunning scenery will keep you going when it gets tough.
Exploring the Canyons of Utah & Arizona - Good to Know
Moderate to challenging; some immense elevation changes, hot conditions.
5-7 days for multi-park trips.
Fit women who are into dramatic landscapes and not afraid of a challenge.
Springdale (Zion) or Grand Canyon Village.
Dodge the summer heat. Spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for cooler temps (15-25°C/59-77°F).
Getting there
Fly to Las Vegas or Phoenix; shuttles to Zion/Grand Canyon (€30-60, $34-67, 2-4 hours).
The Best Rock Climbing Trips For Solo Women
These climbing trips blend technical challenge with supportive communities. They’re ideal for women looking to push physical and mental boundaries solo or in small groups.
Sailing & Climbing in the Mediterranean
Sardinia, Kalymnos & Croatia are the perfect spots for combining rock climbing with island-hopping.
You’ll scale limestone cliffs with sea views, guided by experts, and relax on boats between climbs. What’s not to love!
Most of these trips include a week or more of sailing and climbing. Routes range from 5.6 to 5.12 for all levels, while the boat gives you the flexibility to approach any wall, climb as long as you want, and move on in a matter of minutes. Guided tours are the choice here, as they foster a women-friendly vibe, with coaching for beginners.
Why it’s one of the best trips for solo women: Small-group, women-friendly tours create a supportive space to learn and climb. You’re safe on a boat, and the backdrops are spectacular
Sailing & Climbing in the Mediterranean - Good to Know
Easy to hard; beginner to advanced routes. Instruction is available.
5-8 days.
Climbers of all levels seeking a unique sea-and-rock adventure.
Depends on the tour.
Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for mild Med weather (20-25°C/68-77°F).
Getting there
Depends on the starting point of the tour.
Climbing Courses in Spain
Spain’s climbing courses in Siurana or Margalef offer women-focused instruction on limestone crags, with routes from 5.7 to 5.13.
You’ll learn skills like belaying and lead climbing over 3-7 days, staying in local guesthouses. The vibe’s supportive, with female instructors often leading the way on the rocks. Expect 4-6 hours of daily climbing, with breaks to work on your technique.
The instructors there emphasize safety and skill-building, perfect for solo women. A true confidence-boosting adventure.
Why it’s one of the best trips for solo women: Women-led courses and tight-knit climbing communities provide a safe, empowering space to grow skills solo.
Climbing Courses in Spain - Good to Know
Easy to hard; beginner to advanced routes.
3-8 days.
Beginners to intermediates wanting to build climbing skills.
Siurana or Margalef.
Spring or fall for ideal climbing temps.
Getting there
Fly to Barcelona; buses to Siurana (€15-25/ $17-28, 2-3 hours).
The Best Ski Trips For Solo Women
These ski trips were chosen because they offer powder, community, and adventure, perfect for women hitting the slopes solo with guided or group support.
Skiing in the Chamonix Area
Chamonix’s ski scene, at Mont Blanc’s base, offers world-class slopes from beginner-friendly to off-piste challenges.
You’ll ski 4-6 hours daily, with runs like Grands Montets, guided by experts. Stay in cozy chalets, enjoying après-ski fondue. Many guided tours cater to women specifically, with tailored coaching and a strong support system to catch you when you fall.
For our money, Chamonix is home to the best après-ski scene in the world. The vibrant resort vibe will ensure you make a social connection or two.
Why it’s one of the best trips for solo women: Chamonix’s lively, safe resort culture and guided women’s groups make solo skiing welcoming and fun for all skill levels.
Skiing in the Chamonix Area - Good to Know
Easy to hard; beginner to expert runs.
3-12 days.
Skiers of all levels seeking alpine thrills and social vibes.
Chamonix, France
January through March for the best snow conditions & temps (-5 to 5°C/23-41°F).
Getting there
Fly to Geneva, and take a bus to Chamonix (€15-20/ $17-22, 1 hour).
Hut-Based Ski Trips in the Canadian Backcountry
Hut-based ski trips in Canada’s deep backcountry, like those in Banff or Rogers Pass, are unique for their blend of absolute wilderness and cozy hut stays.
You can ski powder-filled bowls and steep couloirs right out the front door, guided by pros. And after a full day of skiing, you’ll bond with other skiers over shared meals, hot tub & sauna sessions, and board game evenings. If you’re looking for a remote, thrilling escape, it’s hard to beat BC.
Why it’s one of the best trips for solo women: Small, guided groups and cozy, well-built huts are the perfect environment to push your boundaries and unplug from everyday stress.
Hut-Based Ski Trips in the Canadian Backcountry - Good to Know
Moderate to challenging; intermediate to advanced backcountry skiing skills required.
4-8 days.
Independent thrillseekers looking for true, no-fluff backcountry adventures.
Usually, Vancouver, Banff, or Golden, depending on the hut.
February through March for waist-deep powder and ideal skiing temps.
Getting there
For Alberta: Fly to Calgary and take a shuttle to Banff (€30-50/ $34-56, 2 hours).
For British Columbia, it depends on the location of the hut. Your guide will generally provide more detailed info.
Ski Touring in Japan
Japan is famous for JaPow, some of the lightest, deepest, fluffiest powder in the world. You’re shredding waist-deep pow in mostly low-angle volcanic terrain, and the falls don’t even hurt!
Expect to skin 5-10 km (3-6 miles) daily, with 4-6 hours of touring. Make sure to save some time to visit the local hot springs (onsens) and try some of the many local delicacies.
If you want low-angle, low-consequence touring in possibly the best snow on the globe, Japan is the place to go.
Why it’s great for solo women: Japan is safe and welcoming, and the slopes are great even for backcountry beginners. Plus, the cultural element really elevates the adventure!
Ski Touring in Japan - Good to Know
Easy to moderate, but strong resort skills are a must.
5-8 days
Chill powder addicts who are also into cultural immersion.
Niseko or Furano.
January or February for immense snowfall and quality ski conditions.
Getting there
Fly to Sapporo; buses to Niseko (€20-40/ $22-45, 2-3 hours).
What Do You Think Are The Best Solo Trips for Women?
Solo travel for women is about owning your adventure, and these trips deliver empowerment, beauty, and connection.
Pick your path, pack your courage, and just go for it. The world’s waiting for you to make it yours.