Visit Sudan as a solo female traveler

By Joan Torres 1 Comments Last updated on December 28, 2023

solo female traveling sudan

If you’ve been following my blog, you’ll know that I always try to show the potential of countries which tend not to be on the bucket list of the ordinary traveler.

The only reason I try to promote them is because I really think they are great, awesome and, most important, they can be perfectly safe. Lebanon , Pakistan , and Sudan , among many others, deserve to be discovered because it’s here where you will meet the most hospitable people and live the most ultimate experiences ever.

However, over the last year, I’ve been receiving countless emails from brave women, full of enthusiasm and wanderlust, who really wanted to discover these countries. Yet, all of them showed one concern:

What do you think about going there as a solo female traveler?

That made me think. From Sudan to Kurdistan, all the countries I travel to are clearly dominated and ruled by Muslim men who, on most occasions, don’t even know how to deal with women, especially if they are foreign. This means that women will, definitely, have a completely different experience than men.

Throughout my travels, I’ve met several solo women who told me amazing things about their experience in the Middle East and Central Asia. Nevertheless, I was disappointed because I could never give an accurate response because it was not my personal experience.

For this reason, I decided to open a solo female traveling section on my blog, to help women get to know the reality of traveling solo in these countries.

That’s how I met Zaina, the creator of World of Dancers , an online community of art lovers, and a woman from Finland who visited Sudan recently. She told me about her journey through this north African country and I thought that it would be an amazing opportunity to interview her, so she could tell us everything about her joy, love, fears, concerns and overall experience when she visited Sudan as a solo female traveler.

For all the practical information, read: A travel guide to Sudan (Itinerary + Tips)

Remember to get travel insurance for Sudan IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Sudan + COVID-19 5% discount if purchasing via this link

female solo travel sudan

Please, describe, in a couple of sentences, your experience when you visited Sudan. 

Sudan is wild and real. It has some real gems to show the traveler who’s willing to jump through the hoops to get there. I’m so glad I went.

What made you decide to visit Sudan?

I love traveling Africa, and I’m slightly obsessed with the Sahara. Still, Sudan was never on my radar. I knew getting the visa was difficult, and there weren’t many good months in the year for travel because of the harsh climate.

Then, a good friend of mine took a three-month UN assignment in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan. It was now or never. I thought I would just fly in and out of the capital, but when all was said and done, the only reasonable way to get the visa was in Aswan (Egypt). So I ended up doing a Cairo to Khartoum overland journey , with many stops along the Nile in Sudan. It was a 45-day trip. 

female solo travel sudan

Sudan is a conservative country which is ruled by men. Why did you decide to visit Sudan as a solo female traveler?

Let’s see: I don’t have a brother, I don’t have a boyfriend, my husband had to work…

Seriously speaking, I’ve traveled alone for years and years, so that didn’t faze me. 

What was the first reaction of locals when they saw you? 

Besides ” Hey, Khawaja ” (foreign chick)?

There were definitely some surprised reactions on the streets and confused looks at bus stations. The immigration guy on the boat I used to cross the border,  from Aswan to Wadi Halfa , straight up asked me ‘what I had in Abri’, the town which was my first stop, and why I came alone. The thing is, there is nothing you can say that would truly explain the inexplicable. In this part of the world, women travel alone only when it’s absolutely necessary: to see family in another town, seek medical treatment, something along those lines. A foreign girl roaming around foreign lands for fun, it’s something bizarre and even suspicious.

female solo travel sudan

Sudanese men are not used to hanging out with women. When you were traveling by bus, did men feel awkward when they had to sit next to you? 

Culturally, the Sudanese are more African than Arab, so the rulebook is a little different. In true Arab lands, they would never try to seat a woman between two men, for example. When that happened in Sudan, I protested and asked for the window seat. I would do the same everywhere in the world, there’s just no reason a woman should be squeezed between men. Good thing is, in Sudan, it’s not difficult to get what you want. The people are immensely helpful and accommodating.

Sudanese people are famous for their hospitality. When I visited Sudan, I was invited to tea, food and even to stay in their houses, continuously. As a woman, did you feel the same? However, did you hesitate sometimes?

I did visit a couple of homes, invited by a hotel owner or a local woman. The same common sense rules apply here as anywhere else: it would not be polite for men to invite strange women into their house, unless it’s made absolutely clear their wife and family are at home.

Travel in Sudan

Did you experience any kind of privilege just because you were a woman?

Sure! The more conservative the place, the bigger the woman privilege. I have no qualms about asking for what I need, and men rarely refuse to help women. It offsets the challenges we face a little bit.

An example of the solo woman privilege on this trip is the overnight boat I took from Egypt to Sudan. I bought a first class ticket, which gets you a bed in a two-person cabin. I knew I would have the entire cabin to myself: once they sell me a ticket they cannot put a man in there with me, and it would be highly unlikely there is another woman traveling alone, especially in first class.

And what about the disadvantages? Did you have any limitations just because you were a woman?

For me, the main disadvantage is always the attention on the streets – which in Sudan wasn’t particularly intense. Being stared at by men – and in countries like Sudan, 90% of people out in public, and working at hotels, shops, and restaurants are men – has a way of wearing me down, so I limit the time I roam the streets or else I start getting irritable.

The line of questioning by curious locals, well-intended as it is, follows a pattern: What are you doing here, how old are you. Are you married’ – if you answer ‘yes’, do you have children, if you answer ‘no’, why not. There are times when you’re not in the mood for explaining your personal life to strangers. I doubt male travelers receive the same kind of appraisal, or at least not as quickly.

What do you recommend to wear and bring when traveling in Sudan as a woman?

It’s a good idea to bring your own shampoo and especially conditioner, and other essential cosmetics and hygiene products. They tend to be imported and pricey.

As far as clothing, it’s best to wear loose clothes that cover your arms and legs. I always prefer being safe than sorry in this department – I’m so much more comfortable being stared at when I know there isn’t much to see besides my foreign face. A headscarf is not mandatory, but I wouldn’t have my hair flowing freely in the wind, either.

I mostly dressed in baggy Thailand tourist pants  and hoodies. A long, wide cotton skirt is not very practical in northern Sudan because it’s quite windy. A better option is a long, stretchy skirt and a pair of leggings, which worked great for me in Mauritania.

Easy to sit on the floor cross-legged, and even as the wind blows, the skirt clings to the leggings enough to keep it from flying away. In Khartoum, I went out in a T-shirt when I was with other people. 

Sudanese women in the small towns typically dress in colorful, narrow dresses topped with a tob , a wrap-around cloth similar to the West African melhafa . While beautiful, the tob requires frequent yanking and rearranging to stay on. For them, it’s easy, I for one need my clothes to stay on without any effort on my part.

female solo travel sudan

Would you recommend Sudan to other female travelers? 

Northern Sudan is a perfectly suitable and safe destination for women. It is, however, a place best enjoyed with a bit of experience in Africa travel, as well as some understanding of Arab culture. Accommodation and facilities outside the capital are quite basic, so be ready for those shared squat toilets.

Travel between towns is surprisingly comfortable, with air-conditioned minibusses and good roads. Even basic knowledge of Arabic language, numbers and such, will be hugely helpful, although the Sudanese dialect is quite different from others.

I visited Sudan in October, and I only encountered one other traveler in my two weeks. At each pyramid and temple, I had the place to myself, which was nothing short of magical. If, like me, you love Africa, Arabia, and the Sahara, you simply must go!

More information for solo female travel in Sudan

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

More solo female travel guides

  • Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraq
  • Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraqi Kurdistan
  • Solo Female Travel Guide to Jordan
  • Solo Female Travel Guide to Lebanon
  • Solo Female Travel Guide to Oman
  • Solo Female Travel Guide to Pakistan
  • Solo Female Travel Guide to Saudi Arabia
  • Solo Female Travel Guide to Iran

More guides to Sudan

  • Travel Guide to Sudan
  • Tales of Nubian People
  • Travel Guide to Nubian Pyramids
  • Is Sudan Safe?
  • Visa Guide for Sudan

 Zaina Brown is the creator of World Of Dancers, an online community of art lovers, and the author of upcoming travel memoir “Fire In The Belly”. She’s a professional bellydancer, relentless traveler, writer, and filmmaker. Zaina’s documentary  “Traveling Bellydancer in India”  (2015) is the winner of the Canadian ACCOLADE AWARD. She is currently based in Hua Hin, Thailand. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram .

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One reply on “Visit Sudan as a solo female traveler”

That was really wonderful. I am discovering a lot about Sudan with your blog. I am a little worried about being a gay man in such a conservative country, but I believe that keeping it to myself will solve any possible problem.

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Is Sudan safe for female travellers? 5 tips for sole women tourists

Is Sudan safe for female travellers? In short, yes it is very safe for women to travel to Sudan touristically, Sudan is though a relatively conservative Muslim country, so there are still some cultural norms that need to be adhered to.

To read about if Sudan is safe click here .

What do the advisories say?

Is Sudan safe for female travellers

Many countries have until recently advised against all travel to Sudan, partly due to the protests against the government, although most now simply advise against travel to certain parts of the country. 

As always check with people like the UKFCO for their rather than our take on things.

You can check the UKFCO website here

What is the situation for females in Sudan?

As a country still based largely on Sharia law sex outside of marriage is illegal and women make up a disproportionately low percentage of the workforce of Sudan. In fact the only women you will generally see working tend to be selling tea, or street food.

Most women wear a headscarf, but not the full burca, although some do wear this. As a foreigner you are expected to wear either on a daily basis.

Prostitution in Sudan

Prostitution in Sudan is almost unheard off, although there are areas known for street walkers in Khartoum. These areas should be avoided in general, but particularly by foreigners. Many of the prostitutes in Khartoum tend to be foreigners, so merely being on these streets could lead to problems.

Going to hotels other than your own should also be avoided, particularly with someone of the opposite sex as this can also fall foul of the law. 

Is Sudan safe for female travellers – war zones

Outside of Khartoum and the safe areas of Sudan, particularly the war zones things are much different and safety of travel needs to be looked at from a more general, rather than a female point of view. 

Is Sudan Safe for female travellers –  5 Top Tips

So, while the overall situation for most of Sudan is women friendly for travellers, there are still some tips, particularly for female solo travellers in Sudan that will make your life easier.

Dress conservatively in Sudan

Is Sudan safe for female travellers

While women are not required to wear a hijab, or the like you should still follow cultural norms. Generally speaking arms and legs should be covered and you will need a headscarf if you plan to visit a mosque. When you are in the desert, things can be a bit more relaxed.

Men and women do not generally shake hands

Generally speaking men and women do not shake hands, with a simple nod and a smile being enough from an etiquette point of view. 

Men and women tend to stay separately

When you visit places such as a Nubian house, or local house you will notice that the women do not “hang out”with you. Women tend to have different quarters and even their own bathrooms in Sudanese houses. If you ask it is possible to go and speak to the women yourselves.

To read about a Nubian house click here . 

Not everywhere is open to women

Some places within Sudan are more conservative than others, such as Abu Hamad in the north of the country. There are places such as tea houses (where we watched the football) that are technically open to women, but in reality none are inside. In cases like this seek the advice of local guides before entry.

Can trans-women travel to Sudan?

Is Sudan safe for female travellers

With homosexuality being illegal in Sudan the issue of trans-eights is far from the agenda of the country, with women rights in general arguably lagging behind many states within the region.

With regards to trans-women who wish to travel to Sudan we suggest getting in touch with us, so that we can discuss the logistics in more detail. 

Like always, and as a female, the mission is to continue breaking down barriers and opening up more opportunities for women to see places deemed “impossible”. We would love to see you on our Sudan tour, to learn more please click here . 

About Post Author

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Paris Hailwood

Paris is a full-time guide for YPT, mostly working in the Middle East, Central Asia and West Africa. She aims to encourage more people, especially women, to travel and defy boundaries.

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Sudan packing list

Sudan is a country that is often misunderstood and travelers tend to have pre-conceived ideas before traveling that are often shattered during a visit. Some of those misconceptions come down to dress code and customs.

In this article, I will provide tips for packing for Sudan as well as suggestions for things to bring and things to leave behind.

During our trip to Sudan , we will spend most of the time in the desert, crossing some rivers, walking on sand dunes and many archeological sites and on gravel, sandy and unpaved areas. It is important to bring adequate footwear.

Additionally, we will also spend a lot of time in 4WD cars so comfortable clothes you can sit in for extended periods of time are a must. Packing light for Sudan is also essential since we will be moving around a lot, changing accommodation often and cars don’t have unlimited space and .

Lastly, this is a conservative country so a Sudan packing list must include clothes that err on the side of covering more than they reveal. Although covering your head, hair or body is not required, skimpy clothes should be left behind.

What to expect in Sudan in winter

female solo travel sudan

Sudan experiences typical desert climate conditions. This means that it almost never rains, temperatures can vary a lot from day to night in the desert, the air is always very dry air with very low humidity levels.

Because of its location near the Equator, there is little variation throughout the year in terms of sunrise and sunset times and the sun rays are strong. Shade is rare outside the city and tree cover minimal.

The sky is almost always clear though the months of April and May see sand storms called haboob taking over the skies with apocalyptic scenes that are taken out of the movie The Mummy.

This is why the best months to visit Sudan are the months from November to March, with October and April as shoulder months when temperatures are still very high but bearable.

From May to September, it is scorching hot and most of the tourism accommodations close off for the season because the temperatures soar beyond acceptable levels and tourists disappear.

Between November and March, temperatures are milder, though still hot during the day, and cooler at night when in the desert. But it is never cold during the day in Sudan , not even in the winter months.

The coldest days of the year may see temperatures drop to 18 Celsius or 60 Fahrenheit at night in Khartoum but can get close to freezing levels in the desert.

We visit Sudan in early November when temperatures should be between a maximum of 33 Celsius and a minimum of 21 Celsius in Khartoum. The chance of rain is zero, as is the humidity level, and the sun will be shinning for 11 to 12 hours per day from around 5,30am.

Meroe has almost identical weather conditions to those of Khartoum. In Karima, minimum temperatures can be slightly lower than in Khartoum of Meroe but the highs are the same.

Tips when packing for Sudan

female solo travel sudan

Considering the weather outlook explained above, it is important to pack accordingly to be comfortable and able to adapt to the changing daily conditions and the high daily temperatures.

This means, bringing enough layers to withstand a 10-15 degree Celsius change in temperatures in a day, and the extreme dryness of the desert which can be difficult for those used to living by the coast or in high humidity conditions like myself.

I am not saying this lightly (pun intended) but you really want to pack light and ideally in a soft bag for this trip. We will be packing and unpacking a lot, moving every other day sometimes every day, and you don’t want to be lugging around a large and heavy suitcase.

Plus the bags will be carried around the country over the 4WD cars and will shake a lot. Pack smart, bring only what you need and if necessary, have some of the clothes washed or hand wash them yourself.

Meroe Camp and at the Nubian Rest House in Karima offer laundry service. Sock and underwear will not be washed.

As mentioned below, Sudan is a casual destination and this is an adventure trip, comfort should trump style, older clothes should be prioritised over new ones, and there will be no opportunities to dress up.

IMPORTANT : If you plan to bring an oversized bag, please be advised that it may not fit in the car and may have to be left in Khartoum in storage, reach out to discuss.

Sturdy footwear

Your shoes will probably be the most important item you should pack for Sudan. We will walk on rocks, dust, unpaved paths and roads and on sand dunes. It is better to wear closed toes shoes that are sturdy, have grip and are worn out.

It is not a good idea to wear new shoes unless you don’t mind them getting dusty and dirty. Hiking boots are not required either.

A pair of old sneakers are a good idea and one pair of flip flops or sandals will be useful to walk around the camp, guest house and the sand dunes, though the sun can get really hot during the day so open shoes means hot sand.

I’ve said it already but the daily temperatures changes a lot through the day in Sudan. Make sure to dress in layers to better suit the conservative nature of the country and to take off or put on as temperatures vary.

Start with a base layer t-shirt or blouse then layer up a longer shirt, and top it off with a sweater, cardigan, fleece or jacket and a scarf for the coldest days. You can leave the layers you will not need in the car on the days when we are moving a lot, but better bring more than miss a layer and be cold.

Anti theft bag

Crime in Sudan is extremely low and the typical concerns of tourists in popular destinations such as European capitals are irrelevant in Sudan. That said, it is always better to be safe than sorry and petty crime does exist like everywhere else, though only in Khartoum.

There will be a couple of occasions when we will be in crowded spaces in Khartoum (markets, wrestling, Sufi dancing), it may be worth investing in an anti-theft bag that you can also use on any future trip.

Slash-proof bags are designed for extra safety. Alternatively, a cross-body bag that is always zipped and in front of you should work. 

Below are some of the best anti-theft bags.

Be respectful of the local culture

female solo travel sudan

Sudan is a majority muslim country which follows strict Islamic law. Alcohol is banned, music is forbidden and locals dress conservatively, both men and women.

However, women usually dress colorfully and cover their hair with a scarf. The long black abayas worn by women in the Middle East are not as commonly worn in Sudan where women prefer to wear a brightly colored fabrics.

Sudanese women typically dress with a long sleeve tunic style dress or a tobe, a wrap around that covers their body and head. Most of them also cover their hair with a headscarf.

While foreign women do not need to cover their hair or wear any special clothing, dressing conservatively is highly recommended in Sudan. It shows cultural awareness and will help you blend in, be ready to enter any building and protect from the sun, dust and wind of the desert.

I also recommend wearing lighter colors that attract less heat, loose attire that will help you feel fresher and more comfortable in the car, and clothing that you don’t mind getting dusty and dirty.

Tight clothing, showing your legs or a cleavage or wearing revealing clothes is not recommended.

Dress casually

Moroccan women, especially the younger city dwellers, like to dress up in the cities of Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakech and it is common to see them towering in high heels and beautiful outfits.

Besides the fancier farewell dinner meal, a trip to Sudan is casual and adventurous in nature and you should prioritise comfort and cultural sensitivity over fashion. Wearing new or expensive clothes is not a good idea since you are likely to get dust on them.

What to pack for Sudan

female solo travel sudan

Now that you understand the weather and the local culture when it comes to dress code, let’s take a look at some items we recommend packing for a trip to Sudan.

Long dresses and skirts

Long dresses or skirts are useful and comfortable and will help you stay culturally appropriate. You should opt for three-quarters length at least though ankle length is probably better.

Dresses should at least be short sleeve and if there is a cleavage, you can wear a think tank top underneath.

Loose trousers with a t-shirt or blouse

Trousers made of linen or other natural fibers such as cotton are the best for a trip to Sudan. Denim may be too hot for the high temperatures during the day, though a thin denim could also work.

You can pair these trousers with a simple t-shirt or blouse, for a culturally appropriate and comfortable outfit.

Tunic + leggings

Another great combo for Sudan is a pair of legging that are layered with a colorful tunic, or even a short dress or oversized shirt. This is comfortable, adequate for the local culture and can be fashionable if you feel like it.

You already know the weather forecast and the temperature ranges so a jacket needs to be included in your packing list.

This does not need to be a thick winter coat because it will only come in handy in the late evening or early mornings, but you do need something to stay warm.

A fluffy jacket like this one or even a thick cardigan or fleece jacket may be the best alternative. If you like it more stylish, a denim jacket can also work, though it’ll be heavier to carry around. Some jacket suggestions below:

Although we will not be entering too many religious buildings, it pays to have a scarf handy in case we get the opportunity to enter a place of worship.

A scarf can also come in handy in the plane, when they crank up the AC, or in the evenings when the temperatures drop, to complement a lighter jacket. It will also be useful to keep the dust away in the desert.

Comfortable closed toe shoes

I mentioned it above, a pair of comfortable shoes is essential for all the walking in uneven surfaces, the desert and archeological sites. Something that is sturdy, that you can be in for hours, and that has grip.

You can bring a pair of hiking boots if you have them, thought they are not essential and I would recommend not bringing the really bulky waterproof type, we won’t be trekking much, though we will be walking on rocky terrain and a twisted ankle is a possibility, which is why a pair of leather ankle boots are a good idea.

Here are a few options for lighter sneaker type shoes:

  • Sketchers Bob’s cute sneakers are good for walking and comfortable, but not chunky.
  • Classic Lacoste sneakers that can be preppy cute even with a dress.
  • A pair of Converse always a classic.
  • Superga , an all-time favorite pair of walking shoes, now in cure pastel colors.

Here are a few suggested hiking boots or tactical shoes that are light:

  • Timberland leather hiking boots , sturdy and useful to keep the sand and dust out
  • Oboz mid ankle hiking boot
  • Vivobarefoot lightweight and flexible walking boots are pretty good as an in between hard hiking boots and sneakers
  • Skechers ankle boots

T-shirts, blouses and shirts

I suggest bringing short and long sleeve loose and thin tops that cover you from the sun and dust and that are conservative in respect of the local culture. Cleavages and see-through fabrics should be avoided or a tank top worn underneath.

Linen or cotton shirts are a good idea because they are breathable and fresh. Tight tops should also be avoided.

Hiking clothing

I would not buy specific clothing for this trip but if you have been on safari or go hiking often, traditional hiking trousers will be useful, especially the thin and quick dry ones.

Enough cash

As mentioned on our Sudan travel tips, it is not possible to obtain any cash once you arrive in Sudan. There are no ATMs, credit cards are not accepted and whatever cash you come with is the only cash you will be able to use.

It is important that you carry enough cash for any extras, though there will not be many opportunities to spend it and the trip is all inclusive.

Important : You need to bring enough cash to pay for the visa on arrival ($100 for everyone to $150 for US passport holders), the archeological fees (380 EUR). US bank notes need to be newer than 2009 and in pristine condition. Any notes which have a tear or are not new will not be accepted.

Other things to pack for Sudan

female solo travel sudan

Besides clothing, there are a few other things worth packing for your trip to Morocco.

  • Swim suit : If you arrive earlier or stay longer in Khartoum because of flight connections, you can use the hotel’s swimming pool.
  • A sun hat or cap: As mentioned, the sun will be shining all day long so a hat is a essential to protect eyes and face from the sun exposure. Check out this wide brim one .
  • A sports bra : We will spend a lot of hours in bumpy roads, a good bra to keep it all in place is a good idea.
  • Universal plug adaptor : Sudan uses UK three-prong flat plugs but the camps we will be staying at use standard two prong round European plugs. A universal plug adaptor is your best bet. I like the ones which come with USB ports so that we can charge phones, cameras and everything else with just one adaptor. I love this one because it has USB ports for all the electronics we now carry.
  • A car lighter charger : If you are planning to stay for the extension to Soleb, electricity will not be available so the only option to charge anything is by utilizing teh car cigarette lighter, bring an adaptor if you plan to use it.
  • Power bank : Access to electricity will be limited when outside of Khartoum. We will spend a lot of time on the road, and in remote areas of Soleb, and even when at the guest house in Meroe, electricity is limited to the hours between sunset and 11pm. For this reason, a large battery pack will come in handy. I use the incredible Anker 30,00 0 AMP which is the real deal and can even charge your laptop, but you don’t need something this big, a power bank that can recharge your phone twice is enough.
  • Sunglasses : The sun is very strong in the desert, so a pair of polarised proper sunglasses is an essential travel item. Opt for a pair of sports sunglasses that cover the eye area so that you are also safe rom the dust. I like and wear Oakley sunglasses as they are polarized and protect your eyes from any damaging sun rays. I alway wear them. Yes, they are not fashionable, but I have sensitive eyes that don’t like bright days, so they are a lifesaver for me. 
  • Water bottle : Single use plastic bottles are terrible for the environment and a huge issue in Sudan. Please bring your own reusable bottle as part of our efforts towards zero-waste and responsible travel . Safe drinking water will be available from the guest houses and we will carry it with us in large containers to refill your personal bottle as and when needed.
  • Sunscreen : Perhaps the most important item in this packing list is sunscreen. I use Japanese Biore SPF 50++++ because you can wear it under makeup and it is non-sticky and silky smooth. Living in the tropics, this is an everyday item for me I never leave the house without.
  • Environmentally friendly toiletries : We will be spending a large amount of time in the bush, and we have hand picked lodges that are environmentally friendly low-impact structures. This means they process their own waste, so the more we can help them minimize chemicals in the water, the better. We highly recommend you bring toiletries that are low in chemicals. It is a good idea to pack chemical-free solid shampoo, conditioner, deodorants and shower bars instead of liquids to minimize space and environmental impact. We particularly like the brands Ethique . Consider other sustainable products such as toothpaste bits or reusable cotton buds to minimize the wastage you leave behind.
  • Moisturiser for face and hands : The desert conditions can be really tough on the skin, nose, mouth, lips and eyes, bring extra intensive moisturiser for the skin.
  • Body lotion : The weather can be quite dry and dusty so a good body lotion is always a good idea. Plus it’s more environmentally friendly to bring your own in a small reusable bottle than to use the disposable toiletries given at lodges.
  • Lip balm : The sun and dryness of the desert makes it particularly tough for the skin and lips so you should bring a lip balm to stay moisturized. We find these are essential to not end up with completely ruined lips or even blisters. We like Neutrogena for their Nordic formula that tends to heal battered lips overnight and comes with SPF.
  • Sleep mask : Although hotels have proper blinds, you will be sharing the room with another traveler who may be a late owl. Bring a sleep mask like this one to block the light.
  • Pajamas : As mentioned, you will most likely be sharing a room so don’t forget to pack your pajamas!
  • Ear plugs : It is never a bad idea to have a pair of earplugs handy, for the flight, a noisy neighbor or an antsy roommate.
  • First aid kit and medication : Available medications, brands and products in Sudan is not the same as back home. The embargo limits the availability of international brands in the country and the fact that we will spend more of the time away from Khartoum reduces access to supermarkets or drug stores. Bring everything you are used to taking and of course, all prescription medication or vitamins you take. Pack a basic first aid kit with items such as plasters, an antiseptic ointment, eye drops, hydration powder, etc. We’ll spend time in a car on bumpy roads so motion sickness medication is a good idea if you are prone to getting it. Have a look at our suggested first aid kit here . Pack this in your hand luggage in case your suitcase doesn’t make it.
  • A pair of flip flops : These will come in handy when taking a bucket shower at the Soleb camp, going to the pool in Khartoum or relaxing at the guest house.
  • Tissue paper and wet towels : There are no public toilets in Sudan so all toilet stops will involve bush toilets, bring your own tissue paper and wet towels.
  • Sanitary products : Availability of female hygiene products in Sudan is limited so you should bring your own with enough amount for the duration of the trip and any unexpected emergencies.
  • A torch : Bring a torch and enough batteries for when the electricity goes off in Meroe (after 11pm) and for the camp in Soleb.

What not to pack for Sudan

There are also a few things we do not recommend you bring to Morocco, mainly, because you won’t need them.

  • Revealing clothes : This goes for short shorts, miniskirts, mini dresses, tops which show a cleavage, tank tops, crop tops, etc. anything that is shorter than your ankle or that is sleeveless is best to leave at home.
  • Laptops : Unless you need to do some work, or you plan to back up your images every day into a hard disk (which is not a bad idea), we strongly recommend you leave your laptop at home. They could be damaged by the bumpy roads or the dust and will distract you from making the most of this incredible experience.
  • Hair dryer : Electricity will be limited outside of Khartoum and it is not the kind of trip where blow drying your hair is required. Plus it’ll take space on your suitcase.
  • New clothes : We will spend a lot of time in the sun, dust and desert, you’ll be glad you left your best, most delicate and expensive clothes at home.
  • Alcohol : Bringing in any alcohol is strictly forbidden.
  • Telescopes or professional binoculars : Both of these items are not allowed for security reasons. If you bring them, they will be confiscated and you’ll get a receipt to retrieve them on your way out.
  • Drones : Drones may also be confiscated at the airport and a receipt will be issues. Sometimes, a deposit may be required for you to get it back.
  • Professional video camera : The use of a professional video camera may require extra permits which need to be processed in advance.
  • Female magazines : Western magazines may not be allowed in Sudan because they contain naked or exposed women. Best to leave them behind.

Home » Sudan packing list

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TRAVELLING THE WORLD SOLO

TRAVELLING THE WORLD SOLO

The ultimate guide for independent travellers seeking inspiration, advice and adventures beyond their wildest dreams

What it’s Like to Spend One Week Backpacking through SUDAN

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When I first started travelling, I was quite excited to visit all the more famous places in the world. I wanted to go London, Paris, Rome, etc, which is what I did. I absolutely enjoyed those trips, but I quickly learned a few things about myself.

I do not enjoy the intense hustle and bustle that comes with enormous cities, the bad habits of other travellers can sometimes drive me batty and I am always happiest when I have a place all (or almost) to myself.

This has led to me seeking out some much more ‘off the beaten track’ destinations over the years – and these trips have absolutely brought me the most satisfaction and excitement.

So, about four years ago when I learned that Sudan was home to more pyramids than Egypt, it went straight to the top of my travel wishlist.

I had never heard of anyone so much as talking about visiting Sudan, let alone actually doing so. It seemed like the kind of place where tourism numbers were guaranteed to be low, so naturally, I wanted to go!

Whilst getting a visa was slightly complicated and it was a little tricky to plan the trip with such little information out there, it was well worth doing so, and I hope that this blog not only assists other people with the planning of there Sudanese adventures, but also inspires people to visit Sudan who may never have done so otherwise.

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First things first, we had to organise our visa. We ended doing this by obtaining a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from the Acropole Hotel in Khartoum and then sending this letter (along with our passports, application forms, proof of hotel booking, passport photos and $150 AUD each) to the Sudanese embassy in Canberra.

Getting all these documents organised took quite a while, but once we had finally gotten them all together and sent them off to Canberra on a thursday afternoon, we had our visas issued and our passports shipped back to us within one day! We received everything back to us by the following Monday! I must admit, I was incredibly surprised by the efficiency, but in the end, our visas were issued without too much difficulty.

Once we had our visas, we had to go ahead and book our flights. There aren’t a tonne of options when it comes to flying in and out of Khartoum, but still more than I would’ve expected. The most frequent (and reliable) connections are from Cairo (EgyptAir), Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), Nairobi (Kenya Airways), Dubai (Emirates), Abu Dhabi (Etihad), Bahrain (Gulf Air) and Istanbul (Turkish Airlines).

We flew with Ethiopian Airlines via Addis both for our arriving and departing flights and had no major flight issues, although it is worth noting that if you have the ability to carry with only carry on luggage, I would highly recommend doing so.

Our bags were never lost or damaged, but when we arrived into Khartoum, there was so much baggage coming off of our flight that we had to wait over 90 minutes for our bags – it was bonkers!

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Also, whilst at the airport, it is advisable to exchange just enough USD to Sudanese pounds to get you to your hotel as the official exchange rate and the black market rate vary enormously. Also, I would highly recommend getting a Sudanese SIM card for your trip. Outside of Khartoum free wifi is just not a thing (it is barely a thing in Khartoum as well to be perfectly frank) so for planning, contacting drivers and being able to update your socials, a SIM is absolutely necessary.

We each got a SIM with 1GB of data and limited national calls for 75 SDP – approximately $1.70 USD on the official exchange rate – from the MTN office inside Khartoum airport.

Once we had our bags, cash and sim cards it was time to head to our hotel in Khartoum and finally get some sleep! Most of the taxi drivers outside the airport were quoting prices double what I knew was normal, but with a little patience we were able to find a sweet little taxi man to take us to the Acropole Hotel.

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After a much short nap than I expected, we got ourselves up and went for a little explore around Khartoum. We walked along the river, drank tea at a little stand and ate dinner at a delicious lebanese restaurant.

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The next morning, after an incredible nights sleep, we got up at the veritable ass crack of dawn to board a bus bound for Karima. The journey according to Google Maps was to take around 6 hours, but Google was very much wrong on this occasion. We were told the bus would leave at 06:30am, it didn’t leave until well after 9am!

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About halfway into the journey we stopped for food and to use the toilets. None of the women on our bus spoke any English, but they invited us to sit and eat with them all the same! Our first taste of Sudanese hospitality was a lovely one.

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After eating, it was time to use the toilets, although I use the word ‘toilets’ quite loosely. These open air mud brick stalls provided very little privacy and enclosed holes dug in the ground.

Word to the wise? Keep toilet paper in your pockets!

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Then, instead of being a 6 hour drive, the trip took a good 9 hours. We got into Karima with just enough light to find our hotel for the night!

We ended up staying at Al Nassr Hotel. It was just around the corner from the bus stop, had clean beds and air conditioning. The toilet was less than stellar and the shower was far too cold to actually use properly (full disclosure, neither of us had a proper shower outside of Khartoum) but it only cost the equivalent of $8 AUD per night, which was far cheaper than the nicer hotels!

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Just down the street from our hotel was a kind of open square with lots of little restaurant stalls and a whole bunch of tables and chairs. It was absolutely bustling! We settled on a meal of fuul – a traditional Sudanese bean dish, some kind of mystery meat, more deep fried mystery meat, hard boiled eggs and bread. It was a little odd, but after a long day of a travel it certainly hit the spot.

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The next day, it was finally time to do what I had really come to Sudan to do – see some pyramids!

Fun fact of the day: There are more pyramids in Sudan than in Egypt!

We jumped in a tuk-tuk and arrived at our first stop of the day – El-Kurru. I had come across recommendations for this UNESCO World Heritage Site when I had been doing initial research for our trip, but all I could really remember was that it was some kind of ruin and that I’d need to look for ‘the man with the key’.

However, our visit did not get off to a great start. When we arrived the man working there told us we would need to pay $30 USD for entry – a price that is absolutely insane considering all other costs in Sudan. I couldn’t remember the cost of entry quoted online, but I do remember knowing that it wasn’t more than a few dollars. In the end, stubbornness and RBF (resting bitch face) paid off. I told him that I didn’t have any USD on me (a bold faced lie if I ever told one) and after 10 minutes of tsk-ing and glaring, he eventually let us in after we paid 1000 Sudanese pounds, which was the equivalent of about $2 AUD.

Quite the price difference!

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When we entered, I’ll admit, I kinda wondered why we bothered. It just looked like a whole lot of rubble and poorly preserved columns, but after about ten minutes, like a mirage, an adorable old man seemed to appear out of nowhere – waving a key!

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He ushered us down some stairs into this tomb, and I’ll admit, for a hot second there, I had some reservations about the whole thing. However, as soon as we got down there, all concerns instantly vanished.

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I have been lucky enough to travel through Egypt, and saw some incredible Nubian artwork in the process, but the paintings and hieroglyphics inside this tomb were so much more impressive than anything I had ever seen in Egypt!

The tomb wasn’t large, but the colours and inscriptions were so incredibly well preserved – I couldn’t believe that such an incredible sight was hidden below a sketchy looking hole in the ground.

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I could’ve spent hours down there, letting each image sink into my brain, however, we had other places to visit on this day, and so we said goodbye to El-Kurru and headed to our next stop – Nuri.

I’ll admit, El-Kurru had not started off well (it was a major humbug to be frank) but I was so glad that we had stuck it out and made it into this incredible tomb.

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I honestly wasn’t expecting much from Nuri, stuff I’d read on the internet made me think that there wouldn’t even be any pyramids there anymore.

Apparently, locals have taken a lot of the bricks from the Nuri pyramids and used them to build their own homes!

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However, once we arrived, I was much more enamoured with the pyramids than I expected to be!

We had a lovely man walk us around these pyramids and give us a little history through extremely broken English. We may not have understood much, but he made such a lovely effort, and the pyramids were undeniably charming.

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There was one more spot I wanted to visit while in Karima, but I really wanted to do so at sunset, so we made our way back to what I’m calling the market square near our hotel and got ourselves some lunch.

We eventually decided on this little restaurant (I cannot for the life of me find it on Google Maps) and I am so glad we did! We indulged in some random meats that smelled good and holy moly, the chicken was one of the best things that I’d eaten in a long time!

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There was a young guy working there who we eventually discovered would be moving to Melbourne in the following few weeks! He handed us these sweets and vehemently refused to let us pay for them – it was so sweet!

I do hope that wherever he is now, he is doing well and if he’s in Australia, I really hope that he is loving it.

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After we had eaten and spent a little time napping through the hottest part of the day, it was time to set off to the pyramids next to Jebel Barkal – which is a sacred mountain that lies just on the outskirts of Karima.

I’m glad it wasn’t further away than the outskirts, I am not sure if our tuk tuk could have taken any further!

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In just a few minutes, the hustle and bustle of Karima was behind us and five gloriously beautiful pyramid ruins were basking in the golden hour light before us.

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I had dreamed of this moment for so long. I had heard so much about the beauty of Sudan and here I was with this stunning ruin all to myself!

If you know me well, you will be aware that some of my favourite and most special travel moments happen when I get off the beaten track and away from busy crowds. The last time I had seen real pyramids it was in Egypt, and as much as it was a good experience, having people shout at me to buy a camel ride every few minutes definitely put a dampener on it.

These pyramids may not be as big or epic as the pyramids of Giza, but having them to myself?

Well, this is the travel memory that I will remember more fondly, that’s for sure!

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We spent the next hour or so climbing the pyramids (or attempting to) after our driver made it look so easy, taking gorgeous photos, taking my drone out for a spin and just genuinely enjoying this oh so beautiful and as a bonus – totally free – travel experience.

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After the sun had well and truly gone to sleep, we jumped back in our tuk tuk and went straight back to our new favourite restaurant – we wanted our last fill of that incredibly delicious chicken!

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The next morning we were up bright and early. We had a big day of travel ahead of us, so an early morning alarm was the way to go. Google says that it only takes 3.5 hours to drive from Karima to Atbara, but I had a very strong suspicion that it would take a lot longer than that!

We checked out of our hotel, found someone selling bus tickets, bought a ticket for a bus and then had our morning coffee while we waited for it to arrive.

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We arrived in Atbara by lunch time. We found an extremely cheap and exceptionally gross hotel across the road from the bus station (the walls were covered in grime, the floors were revolting and there was a room adjacent to the bedroom that had nothing but a chair and a tiny table in the centre of it – which might be the most depressing sight I have ever seen.

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There really isn’t much to see in Atbara, but it seemed like the easiest way to get back to Khartoum via Meroë. A lot of travellers go directly from Karima to Meroë and then hitchhike back to Khartoum, but we didn’t love the idea of sitting out in the hot sun for hours just hoping for someone to take us back safely, so instead we opted to spend the night in Atbara and organise a private driver to take us back us back to Khartoum and wait for us at Meroë on the way.

We got some fuul for dinner and found a guy to drive us the next day before getting an early night.

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After a bit of a rocky start in the morning (the guy who we had organised to drive us ended up fobbing us off to another driver and then tried to negotiate a higher price) we eventually got on the road and in just a few hours, we had finally arrived at Meroë.

The Meroë pyramids now lie in ruin, but this site was the Kush Kingdom capital from around 590 BC until the collapse of the kingdom in the fourth century CE. It is easily the biggest tourist attraction in Sudan, not just because of the incredible history, but also because of the utterly unique shape and design of these pyramids.

To me, these pyramids look like something out of Star Trek, and wandering between them as well as up and down the surrounding sand dunes truly did make me feel as if I was on a planet far far away.

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There has been a lot of very obvious restoration done to these pyramids (I imagine the harsh desert winds are not kind) but there are also still a lot of incredible Nubian carvings and art visible on the bricks and inside the pyramids themselves.

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Your entrance fee includes a guide, although we did eventually ditch our guide to explore a bit by ourselves. He was only able to give us a little bit of history and seemed more interested in showing us the less visually pleasing parts!

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Once we had gotten our fill of the gorgeous ruins, we were back on the road and en route to Khartoum, but not before we stopped for a quick roadside coffee courtesy of one of the angelic coffee ladies!

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When we arrived back into Khartoum we were absolutely exhausted, but we had to suppress those feelings, because it was a Friday afternoon, and something exceptionally special happens in Khartoum on Friday afternoons!

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Each friday at 1600, observers of the Tariqa gather at the tomb of Omdurman to cheer, dance, pray and twirl – an action which serves to create a level of excited and unabashed abandon, which is thought to allow them to to communicate directly with Allah.

I am not a religious person, but witnessing this incredible ceremony was so much fun and such a positive experience. Be sure to check out these two videos below – photographs simply can’t capture the magnificence of the moment.

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Where we travelled.

Site details + expected costs*

Visa organised through Sudanese Embassy in Canberra:  $150 AUD Acropole Hotel Khartoum:  $100 USD per night Assaha Restaurant Khartoum:  5000 SDG (~$8 AUD) Bus from Khartoum to Karima: 4000 SDG (~$6 AUD) Average meal:  2000 SDG (~$3.50 AUD) Al Nassr Hotel Karima: $8 AUD per night El Kurru:  1000 SDG (~$1.60 AUD) Nuri Pyramids:  100 SDG (~$0.15 AUD) Jebel Bharkal: Free Bus from Karima to Atbara:  4000 SDG (~$6 AUD) Terrible hotel in Atbara: 5000 SDG (~$8 AUD) Meroe Pyramids:  $20 USD Private driver from Atbara to Khartoum via Meroe:  $50 USD

*Please note all conversions take into account the better value unofficial exchange rate.

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female solo travel sudan

THE  LOWDOWN

Acropole Hotel :  This hotel is easily the most expensive in Khartoum, but the owner George organised our LOIs and helped us settle into Sudan with ease, so I cannot recommend this place enough. Also – it was the only hot shower we got in Sudan! Click here to learn more Meroe Pyramids: These pyramids are a fantastic reason to visit Sudan and are a scarcely visited site that you will be able to enjoy all by yourself! El Kurru: Getting into this site is a pain in the ass thanks to the men who try to rip off anyone who visits, but if you stand your ground, deny that you have any USD and give them enough of an evil eye, you will eventually get in, and it will absolutely be worth the trouble! Camera:  Images captured with an  Olympus OM-D E-M1  in conjunction with  M.Zuiko 7-14mm f/2.8,  M.Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8  and  M.Zuiko 40-150mm f/2.8 lenses as well as with a DJI Mavic Pro Drone (now discontinued) Remember: Bring sunscreen, patience and a tolerance for a freezing cold shower. Sudan travel isn’t always straightforward, but it is absolutely worth the trouble!

Lastly, I wish you all a happy holiday period. I hope you get to celebrate with your families safely this week and aren’t too impacted by all the Covid related nonsense happening in the world right now.

Merry christmas, like this share it.

female solo travel sudan

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38 thoughts on “ What it’s Like to Spend One Week Backpacking through SUDAN ”

Such a great experience you had! Looks stunning and a real experience. Many great tips! Wish you an happy holiday season to you too 🙂

It was honestly one of the best backpacking trips I have ever done – I loved it and cannot recommend it enough! Thank you <3 I hope your holiday season is full of lots of love and good food!

Wow Ellen, you guys traveled a very long way to get to this place! I’m surprised that you climbed the pyramids with those shoes, ouch! The chicken dish does look pretty tasty. Good to see you on the blog again, have a wonderful Christmas season. Be safe!

We really really did! It was a bloody long journey but definitely worth it! Oh the old birkenstocks are so comfy John, I wouldn’t don anything else! Thanks again, I hope you have a wonderful Christmas too – filled with lots of love and family! <3

Hey, your IG link is broken! 😢

That’s odd, it’s working fine for me! How is it broken on your end?

Never knew Sudan has so many beautiful gems to be explored.loved the pictures and these articles .thanks for sharing

Thank you for sharing and giving detailed info!

It is my pleasure! I hope it helps people plan and be inspired 🙂

Fascinating. I never would imagined all the things you found there.

Right!? Such an underrated travel destination, that’s for sure!

That’s an incredible post! Thanks for the great story. I wish I could have witnessed your negotiating power. That cracked me up. It reminded me of the trips over to Jauarez, Mexico when I lived in El Paso, Texas. Happy Holidays to you all!

Oh my goodness, so much negotiation! It’s unrelenting! Thank you for reading, Sudan is such an incredible country!

You are so welcome. Happy New Year! 🥂

Another very interesting post! But no video! Just a couple of captures that wont allow me to submit them 😵‍💫

Found the video but it was only a few seconds…was it meant to be? Forgot to say Happy Christmas!

Hi Denise! Yes, they were just a few videos from my phone to help show a little more of the vibe – I didn’t capture a lot of footage as I was too busy joining in on the dancing. Happy Christmas to you too, I hope it was wonderful <3

Wow this is impressive! Sudan has never really been high on my list you made it sound amazing. I also love to go off the beaten path and I usually travel solo, so we have some things in common. Also in terms of crowdedness, I much more prefer having a place in nature to myself. Would love to do a similar trip to Sudan someday!

I hope you do get to Sudan one day! It is honestly incredible, I am so glad I made the journey 🙂

Wow what an interesting blog post! Sudan has never been on my bucket list but it seems like you had such a wonderful time in this country. It must be such an authentic, local experience as it’s not touristy at all!

It was definitely that! The only time we ever saw other travellers was at the dervishes in Khartoum!

That is such an interesting post. One of my friends live in Sudan, and she often tells me how difficult it has now become to get access to the basic necessities like electricity, bread, petrol, etc.

Where in Sudan does she live? My trip there was in 2019, so I cannot speak as to what things are like there a few years later.

Oh wow! Your post really put Sudan on the map for me. I had no idea there were such beautiful pyramids there. Your trip sounds like quite an adventure, I love you ladies did everything as the locals, do, too!

Thank you so much! We truly did have a wonderful trip and we certainly did do as the locals do. I hope you make it to Sudan one day very soon 🙂

What an amazing trip! I had no idea there were more pyramids in Sudan than in Egypt. Your pictures of the pyramids and sand dunes are gorgeous. Thanks for sharing! Merry Christmas!

Thank you so much! The pyramids are honestly so gorgeous; not as big as in Egypt but still so special. Merry Christmas to you too!

What a great post! The food looks amazing. I can totally relate to wanting to visit places that may not be so well known but having it all to yourself. I dreamed of visiting Athens and the Parthenon for years (was a big Greek mythology buff as a kid), but when I finally got a chance to visit, it was a little disappointing with all the crowds and signs surrounding it.

That is exactly how I felt at the Coliseum in Rome – I had dreamed of it for so long and it was quite the let down. Thanks for reading! <3

This is truly amazing! so inspiring to see someone adventure beyond where many other would dare to go.

Thank you so much Emma. I really hope to inspire more people to visit places like Sudan <3

Wow! This looks like such an incredible trip – definitely up there on my bucket list, but I’m not sure I’d jump in and go solo. I loved all of the photos of the antiquities – and the food looks unbelievably good.

Maybe you could do it with a friend? Chelsea and I DIYed it and had a great time! It certainly was a wonderful place to travel through <3

I admit, Sudan has never been on my list either – until now!!

I love comments like these! When you do visit, please make sure to click back and tell me all about your trip! <3

These pictures are amazing. Thanks for sharing your experiences in Sudan.

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What Should Travelers Wear in Sudan? (Women and Men)

female solo travel sudan

By Alissa Bell : seeker of paths less traveled and active adventures on 6 continents

March 22, 2021

Updated: June 6, 2023

Female traveler wearing headscarf in Sudan

The situation in Sudan has unfortunately deteriorated since I was there, and as of April 2023 there is active armed conflict between factions of the military in Khartoum and elsewhere. I sincerely hope the country finds peace again soon, but in the meantime travelers should stay away.

So you’re thinking about traveling to Sudan? Good for you! Sudan is a fascinating country. It has its fair share of challenges to be sure, and is not currently an easy place to live for many residents. But the country also has much to offer the thoughtful visitor .

Sudan is a conservative Islamic country, at least by standards of the African continent and certainly by the standards of most visitors from westernized countries. This has some advantages for travelers, like an admirable culture of hospitality, and a very low crime rate.

But it also comes with some conundrums, especially for women: what should travelers wear in Sudan to be respectful of the local culture and avoid attracting unwanted attention?

At the very beginning of 2020 I rode my bicycle through the northern part of Sudan, from Wadi Halfa to Khartoum, traveling solo. For context, since we tend to have different experiences depending on who we are and how we look, I’m a white American woman in my thirties.

Through my interactions with Sudanese people and a few European expatriates I met along the way, I learned a lot about what travelers should wear while visiting Sudan. I also left with plenty of unanswered questions. Some things will stay a mystery to me even after a month of traveling through the region, but that’s just how it goes when we open ourselves up to unfamiliar cultures .

As with anywhere in the world, those who travel independently, solo, and off the beaten path would be smart to show extra sensitivity. By contrast, those who travel in guided groups on the tourist trail can (though not necessarily should) deviate more from local norms.

In this post I’ll give clear recommendations for what both women and men should wear when traveling in Sudan. I’ll also dive into some details and examples to try and explain the more nuanced version. If I’ve done my job, by the end you’ll understand the spectrum of reasonable dress and where you might want to be on it, and also understand a bit more about the culture and politics of this very interesting country.

Men walk along a desert highway in northern Sudan

Quick Primer on Religious and Political Context

Stick with me for a few paragraphs of interesting history and history-in-the-making. I promise you’ll be glad to know this when you’re in Sudan.

The population of Sudan is estimated to be 97% Muslim , meaning followers of the religion of Islam. Islam has been prominent in Sudan since Arabs from the north conquered Egypt in the 600’s AD and the kingdom spread south to Sudan. But, as with any religion there are many flavors and subsects of Islam, some more strict and conservative than others. And there is a difference between a religion that’s simply followed by many and a religion that is mandated by the government.

The current conservative version of Islam that we associate with Sudan dates from when former president al-Bashir seized power back in 1989. He did away with political parties and established a Sharia-inspired legal code aligned with a fairly extreme version of Islam. This included regulations that made it illegal for women to leave home with their hair uncovered, wear pants, sell things on the street, dance, move about freely without a male guardian, or for anyone to drink alcohol in Sudan.

When we think of Sudan as a conservative Islamic country, at least its most recent iteration, we are picturing the result of al-Bashir’s regime.

But, things are changing! In 2019 al-Bashir was overthrown by a demand for civilian rule. Economic struggles and political complexity have challenged the revolution, but progress has slowly been made.

In late 2019 the transitional government   repealed the Sharia-inspired “family law”  that oppressed women in many ways. In 2020 the government criminalized the widespread and brutal practice of female genital mutilation, a largely symbolic act but a step in the right direction nonetheless. And in September of 2020, Sudan’s transitional government and rebel groups formally signed an agreement to separate religion from state! This officially ends three decades of Islamic law in Sudan and unseats Islam as the “official state region.”

female solo travel sudan

So, what does this mean for travelers? Honestly, for now, not much. The vast majority of the population is still Muslim, and decades of social norms are not going to disappear overnight. For the time being, I think visitors should observe the same strict dress codes unless / until we notice signs of a cultural shift. It’s possible that further down the road, Sudan will shift toward a more typically “African” approach to Islam, an approach which holds these religious norms more lightly. West Africa, for example, is home to large populations of both Christians and Muslims who coexist easily and keep their religion separate from their government.

For the Sudanese, positive change is in the air, and now officially in the government. This is a fascinating time to visit, or to follow from afar. If you can find a local who’s willing and able to talk with you about their political situation, definitely take the opportunity to learn.

Now, on to the practical stuff!

female solo travel sudan

What to Wear in Sudan for Women

If you’re looking for a quick recommendation, mine is similar to what you may have seen in other places. Women traveling in Sudan should wear:

  • Long loose skirt or long loose-fitting pants reaching to at least mid-calf
  • Loose shirt with reasonably high neckline and sleeves that reach past the elbow

Length can be a bit of a gray area. Are 3/4 length pants ok? What about elbow-length sleeves? My recommendation, especially for younger women traveling alone who want to avoid hassle, is to go full-length: cover everything down to your ankles and wrists.

On a guided trip or within Khartoum only, calf-length pants and elbow length sleeves are probably fine. At the very least, always cover your knees and shoulders.

Pants are hardly ever worn by Sudanese women, but they seem to be tolerated on foreigners. A long skirt would be ideal, but if you prefer pants make sure they’re loose-fitting. Definitely avoid leggings, which would be seen as quite inappropriate.

My impression is that it’s more important to cover skin on your arms and legs than to wear a headscarf. You can certainly do both if you want to be safe, but a headscarf – though a more obvious symbol of Muslim culture – will not make up for the general scandalousness of showing too much skin. More on headscarves below.

Examples of Women’s Clothing in Sudan

What I wore in Sudan : long loose-fitting pants and a long-sleeve shirt that covered my upper chest. I was traveling solo by bicycle through areas that see few tourists, so I was already breaking quite a few norms and wanted to play it safe. My only regret: my clothes were dark colors because that’s what I had. Light colors would have been better in the scorching desert sun.

Solo female cyclist riding in Sudan

What I saw other foreign women wearing in Sudan : I had the pleasure of connecting with some European archaeologists during my trip. Within their compounds and work sites, and around Khartoum, some of them wore calf-length pants and short-sleeve shirts. A few of them wore long pants and long sleeves. I never saw them wear headscarves.

What I saw local women wearing in Sudan : Outside of Khartoum I saw only a single Sudanese woman not wearing a headscarf in public, and all were wearing some version of a long, loose skirt. At an archaeological compound some of the local women from Khartoum wore pants(!), but I suspect this was influenced by the presence of so many western expats. In Khartoum sometimes local women removed their headscarves at restaurants and cafes frequented by expatriates and wealthy locals. I don’t think I saw a single knee or shoulder among locals – of any gender, religion, or race – during my entire time in Sudan and Egypt.

female solo travel sudan

Should Female Travelers Wear Headscarves in Sudan?

Short answer: it depends. I definitely recommend that women bring a scarf or two to Sudan. I bought a couple pretty ones from Amazon ( this one and this one ) and was very happy with them. They are useful, if nothing else, for covering up in the desert heat and handling the occasional sandstorm. And, as someone who generally doesn’t emphasize femininity very much, I was surprised to realize I thought they were pretty! Among the lovely women of Sudan and their beautiful feminine dress, I appreciated my scarves in a new way.

But what about cultural appropriateness?

Outside of Khartoum and other areas frequented by foreigners, I usually wore a headscarf whenever I wasn’t wearing my bicycle helmet. I took extra care to wear it among groups of only men, such as when camping at highway rest stops.

Did it matter? Thanks to my horrible Arabic and the rarity of English speakers in Sudan, I’ll never really know. One man who spoke a bit of English complimented my efforts, saying I was “like Sudan woman,” but otherwise it was hard to tell if anyone even noticed. Twice I was propositioned for sex while wearing a headscarf, so clearly it’s not the obvious “I’m a proper lady” signal I had hoped it might be.

Sometimes I went without my scarf in more metropolitan areas like Atbara and Khartoum, and people were as kind and friendly as ever.

female solo travel sudan

My impression, though I will never know for sure, is that a tourist in a headscarf is seen as making a clumsy (but hopefully endearing) effort to fit in. Headscarves are considered a requirement for Muslims only, and for those of us who are obviously not Muslim, I suspect there is little concern for whether we wear them. When you consider that we foreign women are doing all kinds of other weird and highly inappropriate things – wearing pants, traveling alone, and in my case riding a bicycle! – the visibility of our hair is probably the least of the locals’ concerns.

As for local women, almost every woman wears a headscarf of some type in public. You’ll notice differences in style and degree of modesty as you move through different regions. If you’re lucky enough to be invited into a private home, you may see local women with their hair uncovered amongst their family, looking surprisingly modern and familiar all of a sudden. Yes, they are women just like us under all that extra cloth. Most of the Sudanese dress code applies only to public life.

If we’re going to dabble in Muslim head coverings as non-Muslims, it seems polite to educate ourselves about the different types, names, and purposes. Here is a great resource .

Headscarves in Sudan Versus Egypt

If you’ll also be traveling in Sudan’s northern neighbor Egypt, you might be curious how the headscarf issue compares. My opinion: a headscarf is a nice touch in the rural areas of Sudan, and also in rural areas of Egypt if you’re exploring off the tourist trail.

In Khartoum and “touristy areas” (relatively speaking) of Sudan a headscarf is fine but not necessary. In the touristy areas of Egypt however, wearing a headscarf seems almost like playing dress-up. Especially if, as I unfortunately saw in Luxor, one is also wearing a tank top and shorts and busy taking Instagram selfies. In this context it almost seems more culturally sensitive to not wear a headscarf.

Related : How to Explore Luxor’s West Bank by Bicycle

female solo travel sudan

Cultural Sensitivity

I want to be clear: personally, I don’t think it’s right for a religion or society to so strictly dictate how women dress and behave. I wish more of the world (any of the world?) viewed women’s bodies as our own, and what we wear as no one else’s business.

However, travel is not right time to try and make a statement about this. When we choose to travel, we choose to immerse ourselves in a different culture. Sometimes it’s uncomfortable and that’s part of why we do it. I believe it’s our responsibility as travelers to dress in a way that feels polite to the locals we impose our presence upon. We are not going to change their minds anyway.

What to Wear in Sudan for Men

While men have it easier than women when it comes to travel in conservative countries, there are still cultural norms to consider. Islamic culture gives men more freedom, but still expects them to dress modestly and act appropriately.

Men traveling in Sudan should wear:

  • Loose pants, full length or 3/4 length
  • Shirt with full length or mid-length sleeves

It’s my impression that men can get away with showing slightly more arm and leg than women can, so 3/4 length knickers and a short sleeve shirt might be comfortable for male travelers. I even saw a few male expatriates and travelers wearing shorts that showed their knees! Scandalous! 🙂 They looked a bit silly but otherwise didn’t seem to have any problems.

Most Sudanese men wear long robes, or at the very least, long loose pants. Though we usually think of women when considering Muslim dress, the men have their own modest dress code to follow. In metropolitan areas like Khartoum, some men wear western styles like jeans and button-up shirts.

Friendly Sudanese man in white robes waves from motorbike

You will never see a Sudanese man in shorts. It’s considered immodest, and my impression is that it may also be seen as immature – as in East Africa where only young boys wear shorts – but I don’t know for sure. Sudanese seem to tolerate shorts on foreign male visitors though, as they tolerate pants on foreign women.

Interactions with Local Women

Male travelers have their own cultural issues to navigate. Though it might feel sexist to western men, you should be cautious about addressing local women directly. In areas like Khartoum it’s more acceptable for women to interact with men, but in rural areas it could be unseemly. Best to address the men nearby if possible, and take cues from women’s reactions to see if they are comfortable interacting with you. If being introduced to a woman, don’t offer your hand to shake; wait to see if she does first.

female solo travel sudan

Unwanted Attention: Notes for Women

Be aware that foreign women, particularly white women, are generally viewed as sexually ravenous and loose by a surprisingly large portion of the world’s men. If you haven’t encountered this in your travels yet, it may come as a surprise to be blatantly propositioned for sex, perhaps while wearing your most modest clothes, covered in sweat and dust, and conveying absolutely zero romantic interest.

You may feel frustrated that you’ve tried to dress appropriately and yet the message is not being received. What’s going on?

Think about it this way: most of these men rarely see “western” women except in Hollywood films. And porn. Can you really blame them for having unrealistic expectations?

How you handle these propositions is up to you. I’ve tried everything from angry lectures to humorous banter, depending on context. It happened twice in Sudan, and I firmly declined, and that was that. Unfortunately one incident happened in the middle of the night and involved a man trying to come into my tent, which was stressful for me, though he quickly went away when I made a fuss.

Know that these requests are very straightforward and not generally a physical threat, though you might perceive them as such because they would be so abnormal in your home culture. Especially in Sudan, violent crime is extremely rare.

If you are traveling as a couple, expect that local men will address your male partner instead of you. If traveling solo, most local men will have no problem addressing you directly, and you will be treated almost like an “honorary man.” We solo female travelers enjoy the best of both worlds in this sense, because we can interact with local women in ways foreign men cannot, and we are also generally treated with respect by local men.

Related : The Messy Truth About Safety For Solo Female Travelers

Men at rest stop in Sudan

Other Considerations

Now that we’ve covered the practical recommendations, here are a few related points to consider.

Sudan is Hot

Like, really hot. We’re talking about the Sahara Desert here. If at all possible, try to combine cultural sensitivity with comfort by choosing lightweight, light-colored clothing that is forgiving to sweat stains.

Khartoum is Different

How you dress in Sudan will partly depend on where you’ll be. The capital city of Khartoum feels almost like a different country from the rural north. Amidst the fast food restaurants and air conditioned buildings, you’ll also find lots of women out on the streets unaccompanied by men. Many wear more western clothes with headscarves pushed slightly back, revealing a few inches of hair. You might even spot a couple women driving cars and removing their headscarves while meeting friends for lunch. I met a number of confident, progressive young women in Khartoum attending university and preparing for careers.

In the north, however, it can feel like all the women are hidden away in their homes. When they do appear on the streets they seem reserved and uncomfortable. In these places, foreign women will likely feel comfortable wearing more conservative clothes. Foreign men will want to be more cautious about interacting with local women in rural areas.

Non-Binary and LGBTQ+ Folks

Sudan’s conservative culture doesn’t tolerate anything except the standard, cis, binary, heterosexual model. If you don’t fit that mold and want to travel in Sudan, you’ll have to keep some things to yourself.

It’s worth noting, though, that your physical appearance is unlikely to signal much to the locals. I’m a fairly standard-looking woman – no one would be unsure of my gender or identity at home – but in Sudan I was asked “boy or woman?” by people who could not square my combination of feminine form with male clothing and freedom of movement.

In Conclusion

I hope this post has given you a better idea of what to pack for your trip to Sudan, and also a peek into the country’s culture and history. If you happen to know Sudan well or have a different impression after your trip, please leave a comment below and share your experience. I was just a visitor with hardly any Arabic language skills, so I was barely able to scratch the surface.

This is a detailed post, but don’t worry, Sudan is forgiving. During my weeks of bicycling through the country, hospitality and friendliness dominated my experience. I may as well have been an alien from another planet, so culturally distant was I from most Sudanese. Yet they met my eyes and smiled, waved, stopped their cars in the middle of the road to shake my hand and say “welcome,” and invited me in for tea. In my clumsy way I tried to be a respectful visitor, though I’m sure I fell short many times.

If you’re visiting Sudan, definitely check out this list of 14 places to visit throughout the country. For more detail on what it’s like to ride a bicycle through Sudan, see my trip notes and this article at Adventure Cycling .

Read next : 14 Places to Visit in Sudan

Large family outside mud hut in Sudan desert waving and smiling

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve had the pleasure of traveling independently and solo on six continents, including some unusual destinations like Liberia and Sudan, and it has forever changed the way I see the world and myself. Learn more about me here .

female solo travel sudan

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6 thoughts on “What Should Travelers Wear in Sudan? (Women and Men)”

You said you will never find a man in shorts in Sudan. Umm rethink about that because I’m Sudanese and I live there and Sudan is such an open country and although the dominant culture is Islam, there are Christians too.

Thank you for sharing. In the month I spent in Sudan I did not see a single man in shorts, but obviously I have seen far less of the country than you! I agree, I found Sudan a very open and welcoming place.

Is is better to go through Sudan to visit Bir Tawil ? Or better through Egypt ?

l deaf city gedaref sudan

l well peace with hope heart yes

I believe that by introducing Sudan and beginning the article in such a positive light, you gave the readers a favourable impression of the country because you represented it as a safe place with a low crime rate. After sharing your positive point, I also appreciated how you discussed that Sudan comes with “some conundrums”, especially for women and you addressed the question of “what should travellers wear in Sudan to be respectful of the local culture and avoid attracting unwanted attention?” As a Sudanese person, this is such an interesting question that I genuinely don’t seem to have the answer to, but clearly from your experience, you do. You stated that you traveled across the northern region of Sudan on a bicycle and encountered several Sudanese along with other European travelers. We can conclude from the fact that you brought up this point that whatever you say about the country is based on factual information. I enjoyed the paragraphs you devoted to what you observed Sudanese and non-Sudanese individuals wearing in Sudan as well as the one devoted to what you wore. As a result, your essay is quite educational and beneficial to those who want to travel to Sudan. I find it incredibly valuable that you also stated what Sudanese men wear and what other men should know before visiting Sudan. All things considered, I believe your essay is brilliantly written because it is highly educational and everything you wrote was based on personal perspective.

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Africa , Solo Female Travel

11 best destinations in africa for solo female travellers.

Top 11 Africa Destinations for Solo Female Travellers

They say it’s a brave woman who travels in Africa by herself, but these 11 best places for solo female travellers makes it easy!

Personally, I don’t think it’s necessarily braver to travel in Africa than anywhere else by yourself as a woman, but nevertheless, Africa travel seems to carry with it a certain hushed sense of concern for those yet to venture here alone, so if you’re bucking the fear girl good on ya!

Now on my 5 th trip to Africa, I can definitely attest to it being safe for solo female travellers (within the limits of common sense of course), in fact I think it’s one of the best continents for solo female travellers because there’s soooo much to do here that you can’t do anywhere else in the world.

I’m probably going to get some stick from this article from those who say the places that are good for solo female travellers are also good for solo male travellers, and there is some truth in that.

But there’s also some truth in the fact that some lady travellers, in my experience, tend to prefer some destinations in this continent compared to male travellers because, well, we all like different things right?

And so, from this one solo female traveller to you, intrepid ladies, here’s my list of the 11 best destinations in Africa for solo female travellers.

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I loved my trip with them as a solo female because I made so many great friends and felt totally safe the whole time.

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#1 cape town, south africa.

South Africa, Cape Town, Lookout View

Coming in at number 1, it’s the big, brilliant, burning bright star of South Africa that is Cape Town.

There’s no doubt this is the most vibrant and cosmopolitan city in Africa I’ve had the pleasure of visiting and I can testify, having just revisited the city after a hiatus of 15 years, that this place is just as dazzling and dramatic as ever!

Honestly, if you’re not impressed by the stunning setting of Cape Town – green rugged mountains running down to crystal clear waters ladies, then the cool vibe of this sunny city, its great cafes, cultural scene, historical stories, wildlife and wineries should do it!

There’s plenty of great hostels where you can easily meet other travellers here too – I love Bohemian Loft Backpackers and Atlantic Point Backpackers – and even a week in Cape Town will only have you begging for more!

And if you want to explore more of the amazing country that is South Africa, with a group, then check out this list of top South African tours perfect for solo travellers .

LEARN MORE: The 11 Best Things to Do in Cape Town

#2 Kilifi, Kenya

Kenya, Kilifi, Bofa Beach House

When it comes to Kenya, there’s 2 places I wanted to include on this list of the best destinations in Africa for solo female travellers.

It was hard to choose between them.

No doubt the Masai Mara is one of the best places to safari in Africa – you can read my thoughts about it here – but pipping this to the post is Kilifi, a coastal town on Kenya’s stunning Indian Ocean.

The main reason I suggest heading to Kilifi is for the awesome permaculture, sustainable- inspired backpackers Distant Relatives – read my review here – which really is in a league of its own.

Staying here, will automatically thrust you into contact with a fun crowd and have you making friends in no time.

I also like Kilifi, because it’s quite an unassuming Kenyan town. I like the local and real feel to this place, including at the Saturday market, at the creek and along the beach too.

DISCOVER MORE : The 22 Things You Need to Know About Travel in Kenya

#3 Lake Malawi, Malawi

Malawi, Lake Malawi, Hostel View

Well, what can you say about Lake Malawi aside from you gotta see it to believe it!

This huge body of water honestly looks like the sea and if you want to dive, chill, swing in a hammock or get lost for a few days in a book, Lake Malawi provides the perfect, peaceful backdrop ladies.

One of the poorest countries in Africa, there’s no doubt Malawi needs the economic support of tourists too and the friendliness of the people here make this a top Africa destination in my book.

READ MORE: Why I Never Dived Lake Malawi

#4 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe & Zambia

Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls, National Park

And from one extreme to the other!

If you wanna chill girl head to Lake Malawi, if you wanna get wet and wild head to Vic Falls.

The adventure capital of Southern Africa, this place is all about extreme sports, so for those of you who love to get the adrenaline pumping, this is definitely one of the best places in Africa for solo female travellers.

Safety records tend to be good here too, which is comforting, and even if you’re not an adrenaline junkie at heart, like me, then coming here to see one of the greatest Natural Wonders in the World has to be on your list right?!

You can definitely explore Victoria Falls independently, but if you want to enjoy the company of others, then one of these great tours might be a good option – especially if you’re looking to travel on elsewhere in Southern Africa afterwards.

LEARN MORE: 8 Incredible Things to Do in Victoria Falls Guaranteed to Get Your Heart Racing

#5 Luxor, Egypt

Egypt, Luxor, Temple Paintings

And if history is your thing ladies, which geekily I have to admit it’s mine, then you can’t really get better in Africa than Luxor.

I had literally wanted to see the temples here since I learnt about them in primary school and finally getting to visit Luxor in Egypt was a dream come true.

I had been warned about the hassle and hustle of travelling in Egypt as a solo female traveller, but honestly did not find this to be a problem.

Once I politely declined any advances, people respectfully got the message.

It’s also worth saying that Egypt is amazingly cheap, a brilliant side-note for those of us with small purse-strings and doing a day tour in Luxor to see all the highlights easily, quickly and safely is completely affordable – plus it’s a great way to meet other travellers.

DISCOVER MORE: The Best 2 Day Luxor Itinerary

#6 Lalibela, Ethiopia

Ethiopia, Lalibela, Man Walking

Carrying on with the history theme, and getting to my favourite country in Africa, Lalibela in Ethiopia is a must-see destination for solo female travellers in Africa.

Go on a Sunday, get up early, see the mass, explore the ancient churches, marvel at people’s devotion, stare disbelieving at the lack of tourists and soak it all up.

It ain’t gonna stay like this for long and even if you’re not religious (like me) I dare you to remain unmoved by this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site and experience.

LEARN MORE: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Lalibela in Ethiopia

#7 Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar, Paje, Beach Shack

Ok, show me a girl that does love a white sand beach, crystal blue water warm weather and fresh coconut juice?

Didn’t think so!

So get yourself to Zanzibar girls – whether it’s diving, chilling, sunbaking, swimming or kitesurfing you’re into – this is the place.

I loved Paje on the east coast a lot, but don’t miss the UNESCO capital of the island – Stone Town – if you want a contrasting Zanzibar experience too.

Best of both worlds (like history, culture and the beach), Zanzibar really is one of the best destinations in Africa for solo female travellers.

I felt very safe here, but do remember to pack accordingly – you’ll need bikini and sarongs for the coast, as well as, long trousers / skirt, long sleeves and even a headscarf for conservative Stone Town.

DISCOVER MORE:   The Ultimate Guide to Paje, Zanzibar

#8 Chobe River National Park, Botswana

Botswana, Chobe National Park, Local Man

Couldn’t not put one national park on this list and when it comes to top ones I’ve experienced (and there’s been a lot) no question Chobe River in Botswana is up there!

This is the home of elephants in Southern Africa as far as I can tell and you’re also gonna see hippos, giraffes and buffalo FOR SURE!

Botswana is fairly well developed, meaning it’s quite safe and offers a little bit more luxury for those who don’t like it too rough.

This is a great safari experience for beginners and the park offers the opportunity not only for game drives, but also for sunset river cruises too – double whammy winner!

However, Botswana is remote and it may be best to take a tour if you don’t want to hire and drive a vehicle solo out here.

Check out these super Botswana tour options that include a stop in Chobe River NP for more inspo.

READ MORE: Chobe River National Park: A Photo Essay

#9 Chefchaouen, Morocco

Morocco, Chefchaouen, Me in Streets

I’ve got to say, Morocco is not on my list of the most friendly countries for solo female travellers (and that’s bearing in mind I’ve travelled through the Middle East and North Africa alone), in fact, it’s probably near the bottom, but the exception here is Chefchaouen – the incredible blue city in the country’s north.

This tiny town, tucked in the mountains, is a great place to relax for a few days with multiple fresh orange juices to help you soak up the Medina vibes.

You can also hike here out in the Rif Mountains and being nearer to Europe (perhaps that’s why?), I found the atmosphere less conservative, pushy and uncomfortable than the rest of the country.

DISCOVER MORE: 13 Fab Things To Do in Chefchaouen, Morocco

#10 Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Uganda, Gorilla, Big Mumma

And when it comes to hiking, if you love a good stride out like me, then it probably doesn’t get better than seeing gorillas at the end of it all!

Yup, that’s just what you can experience in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest!

Definitely worthy of a place on this list of the best destinations in Africa for solo female travellers, this opportunity is epic!

Indeed, there’s not many places you can get to see these incredible animals in the wild and there’s no doubt their human-like characteristics will amaze you!

Trekking with a guide and a group also makes this experience safe and rewarding for solo females, as sharing an opportunity like this with other travellers will certainly bring you together.

LEARN MORE: The Ultimate Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

#11 Sossusvlei, Namibia

Namibia, Desert, Sossusvlei Forest

Namibia is an incredibly safe coutnry to travel to in Africa – not least because of its incredibly low population.

Forget bustling cites here and the risk of pickpockets and traffic accidents, honestly it’s more likely wildlife will pose a threat to you in this country… and that’s incredibly rare too FYI!

There’s also good resources, communication and amenities in the major towns of this country, plus roads and sanitation are decent too.

But perhaps Namibia’s biggest selling point is its breathtaking desert scenery, that will easily give you some of the most amazing photos you’ve ever taken… without you even trying!

And top of my list is the amazing spot of Sossusvlei – if you can capture it in the dawn or golden hour light, then even better!

LEARN MORE: The 9 Best Places to Visit in Namibia

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Mini Travel Guide to Solo Female Travel in Africa

Mozambique, Bazaruto, Me

Travel Insurance for Africa

female solo travel sudan

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Travel Money in Africa

Cash tends to be king in this continent, so bring a lot with you and stash it in various parts of your luggage to avoid losing it all at once.

The best money to bring is USD, as this can easily be exchanged in banks or on the black market across Africa.

Otherwise, in more developed parts of the continent, it’s easy to pay on card for hotels, restaurants, bars, tours and in supermarkets.

In these instances, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Get yours here .

Best Tours in Africa

If you’re interested in an unforgettable, well-priced tour across Africa with guides you can trust, then email me at [email protected] with details of where you want to go and I’ll send you my top recommendations – simple!

Otherwise, check out these great options , which cover huge parts of this continent.

6 Packing Essentials for Africa

#1 Hiking Boots: Something with good grip and ankle support is essential for climbing to the mountains, jungles and forest of Africa. Keen Targhee II’s are a great choice.

#2 Small Backpack: You’ll want something you can put your camera, guidebook, sunscreen and water into when out and about during the day, as well as something secure. The Bobby Anti-Theft Backpack is perfect for this purpose and I always travel with mine.

#3 Headlamp: Great for helping you see when those inevitable powercuts come, I really wouldn’t be without my Black Diamond Storm headlamp in Africa!

#4 Good Camera: I love my Sony A6000 Mirrorless camera , which is small, light, compact and robust – perfect for African travels.

#5 Hiking Trousers: With long trousers the order of the day in lots of African countries, you’ll want a pair that allows you to go hiking and climbing too. Columbia do a top range for women.

#6 Sarong or Shawl: A great one for covering head / shoulders when entering religious buildings, or protecting your nose and mouth from dust, this travel scarf , also has a great secret storage pocket ideal for keeping small valuables safe too.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

The 10 Best Destinations in Africa for Solo Female Travellers {Big World Small Pockets}

So there you have it, my list of the 11 best destinations in Africa for solo female travellers.

When are you heading to Africa and what’s your plan when you get there?

Do tell me all in the comments below…

female solo travel sudan

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

8 thoughts on “ 11 Best Destinations in Africa for Solo Female Travellers ”

female solo travel sudan

In general – I can agree , still I want to add few comments Vic.Falls and Luxor ( Egypt in general ) got too much commertialised but we cann’t not avoid this in these days of overtourism. It was shock for me to see the changes during last 20 years

# 6 – beware of thieves in Lalibela. What I hated there was to be welcomed as “Hello mini ( =money)”; sometimes Hello Penny. Entrance ticket 50 US$ for visiting churches – I think it is too much. I was there during Timkat so I managed to enter 2 churches following Ethiopian pilgrims.

female solo travel sudan

Hi Kris, thanks for the comments. Agree that Vic Falls and Luxor are probably more commercialised than they were 20 years ago, but difficult to find a destination these days that isn’t. Also commercialisation doesn’t necessarily equal somewhere not being a great destination for solo female travellers.

Interesting to hear about thieves in Lalibela, I never encountered any such behaviour or name-calling when I was there, nor have I heard other reports of this, but appreciate your comments. Lalibela entrance is an expensive item, but again, this doesn’t necessarily negate it being a good destination for solo female travellers. I loved Lalibela and thought the experience I got there on a Sunday to see the dawn mass service and touring the churches all day was worth $50 USD.

Thanks Steph 🙂

female solo travel sudan

You cannot have a list like this without adding Senegal. I have just completed three weeks there, flying by the seat of my pants, i.e. making it up as I went. The only thing is, I wouldn’t recommend it if you don’t speak French. I heard no English at all there. Fluency in French allows you to interact with the locals and makes the trip. Poor, but safe, so friendly, so caring. A little hard going, heat and only local transport but so worth it.

Amazing to hear Caroline! I’m absolutely dying to get to West Africa, and Senegal is top of my list! Scheduled in for Jan 2020.. watch this space!

female solo travel sudan

I was wondering why Aswan wasn’t included here. Admittedly, I traveled with a group tour and it was only in Aswan when our security personnel was asked to leave and only came back when we were in Luxor. I also read some of your posts and just like you, Aswan is my favorite city in Egypt myself.

Hi Cassey, it’s a good question because, yes you are right, I did love Aswan and felt very safe there. I suppose Luxor offers more standout, iconic historical attractions with Karnak and the Valley of the Kings, which is why I chose it – it’s more flagship than Aswan and that’s what many travellers to Egypt want. With only 10 spots to pick across Africa, I couldn’t include both cities, but yes both are safe and I loved both!

female solo travel sudan

Oops! I really don’t know whether to call it a mistake. With all honesty you could have included Rwanda. That’s one of the best places for solo female travelers. Or, what do you think?

Hi there, there’s so many places in Africa that are great for solo female travellers that this isn’t an exhaustive list. It’s just my personal 10, there are many more I didn’t include – Namibia being an example too. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Rwanda and would agree it’s a top destination for solo female travellers.

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I've been traveling alone for a decade. These are the biggest challenges I face as a female solo traveler.

  • Over the past decade, I've traveled solo to every US state and most of the major national parks.
  • Although I love traveling solo , I've faced many challenges along the way.
  • Some challenges include not having anyone to split costs with and suffering from decision fatigue.

Insider Today

I started traveling solo nearly a decade ago. So far, I've visited every US state and nearly all the major US national parks on my own.

I've also driven solo across the country several times, spent weeks alone in a van in Alaska, hiked some of the highest peaks in the country, and probably have a recommendation for where to stop for coffee in any town.

Although I love traveling solo and having the freedom to make my own decisions, I'd be lying if I said there aren't challenges.

Here are the six biggest challenges I face as a female solo traveler .

There are some experiences I miss out on by traveling alone

Although I'd love to say I've never missed out on anything due to traveling solo, that wouldn't be truthful.

Many smaller planes and tour groups only allow booking for groups of two. If a company does allow solo travelers, there's often an added fee, which deters me from booking the trip.

I don't have anyone to split costs with

Traveling alone means there's no one to share the cost of hotels, rental cars, and fuel with.

Although this doesn't always have to be a problem and is mitigated through pre-planning and saving, the financial burden can sometimes become a challenge.

Unfortunately, there are some safety concerns

I think there's a fine line between promoting independence and female solo travel and dismissing the real concerns women can face when alone.

Although I believe women can do whatever they put their minds to, I'm also realistic in my assessment of situations and use my best judgment on possible safety concerns that are unique to me as a solo woman.

This means being aware of my surroundings and taking precautions that others may not — like turning around on a trail or finding a new campsite or hotel when things feel off.

I also carry a whistle and other safety devices with me at all times and have even taken self-defense classes.

When traveling alone, I'm on guard at all times, and have a heightened awareness of everything around me.

I can't blame anyone else if something goes wrong

When things go wrong during a trip, there's no one else to blame or commiserate with.

If I take a wrong turn or spend more than I budgeted for on a hotel room, the blame goes on me. This can lead to negative feelings and spiraling emotions, which can be frustrating.

I sometimes find myself suffering from decision fatigue

When I'm traveling alone, I have to make every decision, which can lead to decision fatigue. I have to decide where to stop, where to stay, which roads to drive, and which restaurants to try for dinner.

Although I enjoy making these decisions for myself and charting my own course, it can become exhausting. Sometimes, I think it would be nice to have someone else take on some of the organization, decision making, and logistics.

If I get sick or am in trouble, there's no one to lean on for immediate help

If I get sick on a trip or get a flat tire, no one is there to help me immediately.

Often, I've relied on the kindness of strangers when I've been in a bind. However, there's an extra layer of alarm when something happens and I realize I'm on my own.

For this reason, I try to stay in areas with cell service and carry a satellite communicator with me.

Watch: Kristin Addis quit her job to travel the world solo

female solo travel sudan

  • Main content

I am Aileen

20 Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: The Best Trip Destinations in the World (& The 5 Worst!)

by Aileen Adalid Solo Travel 5 comments

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More than ever, women from all over the world are now choosing to travel solo — this comes as no surprise because traveling alone is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. (Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers)

In fact, in America alone, there are about 32 million women who are traveling solo and that number keeps rising every year! But… as the number of solo female travelers is rising, the number of unsafe destinations is also increasing as they are slowly being brought to light.

I long for the day that I don’t have to write about which are the safest countries for solo female travelers; but the reality is that there are just some destinations that are more dangerous than others.

Looking for more solo travel tips?

Check out my solo travel guides and female travel tips !

Thankfully, journalists Asher and Lyric Ferguson helped make my research a lot easier when they created the “ Women’s Danger Index “. They basically ranked the top 50 countries with the most international tourists in order to see which are the worst and safest to visit. To do this, they utilized 8 danger factors as they put more weight on street safety and intentional homicide:

  • Safe to walk alone at night
  • Intentional homicide for women
  • Non-partner sexual violence
  • Intimate partner violence
  • Legal discrimination
  • Global gender gap
  • Gender inequality index
  • Violence against women attitudes .

As mentioned in their findings…

To measure safety abroad, one cannot look at only data on street safety, rape, or violence. It also depends on the general attitude of the culture, the minutiae of the legal system, and the systematic oppression of local women. These issues can affect everything, from easily getting a taxi alone to having your voice be heard in a conversation, to even needing a male escort for your personal safety. . A lot on our list, such as attitudes toward partner violence may not affect solo female travelers directly, but these factors are a good indication of overall attitudes within the culture.

So for all female travelers out there who are itching to book that plane ticket and tick off their bucket list destinations, below are the top 20 safest countries for solo female travelers (ordered by rank) that are ideal for both first-time and experienced female solo travelers.

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Table of Contents

» Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers «

Tossa De Mar, Costa Brava, Spain

Photo by: Shutterstock

Aside from being the second most visited destination in the world (just next to France) , Spain turned out to be the safest country for female solo travelers as per the Women’s Danger Index. After all, it ranks high in street safety along and has low legal discrimination as well as low violence rating against women.

So apart from the aforementioned reasons, there are also plenty of other reasons to visit this beautiful country: its scenic Mediterranean coastlines, endless servings of paella, rich culture, and fabulous architecture such as the Sagrada Familia among many others!

  • READ MORE: Spain Travel Guides

2. Singapore

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Singapore

This small island nation is considered the safest Asian country on the planet! The country scores high in more than half of the factors, with 92% of women claiming that they feel safe when walking alone at night — which I also personally find to be true.

So travel to your heart’s content when you’re in such a dynamic destination like Singapore! Marvel at how old and the new seamlessly coexist as it packs a lot of surprises for its visitors despite its small size. Some of the things you must NOT miss? As a start, don’t skip out on the Gardens by the Bay and Skyline Luge !

  • READ MORE: Singapore Travel Guides Singapore Layover (Things to Do)

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Ireland may not have the best weather, but you’ll love the fact that it has particularly low levels of discrimination, gender inequality, and violence against women. Not to mention, it is a breathtaking destination with laid-back cities, beautiful countryside, and vibrant culture.

So don’t forget to indulge yourself with some beer (how about a glass of Guinness ?) and explore glorious sights like the Cliffs of Moher for an incredible Irish experience!

  • READ MORE: Ireland Travel Guides

Hallstatt, Austria

For many travelers, Austria is an almost perfect country and they even say that Austrians enjoy some of the best quality of life i n Europe . This notion trickles down and reveals itself in the study as it shows how Austria has some of the lowest levels of sexual violence and lowest gender inequality among the countries reviewed.

Aside from being one of the safest countries for solo travelers, Austria is truly a must-see destination for those who have a taste for fine culture .

  • READ MORE: Austria Travel Guides

5. Switzerland

Jungfraujoch Railway

Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes and fjords which are not limited to Mount Titlis , Jungfraujoch , and Grindelwald .

Aside from such promising beauty, Switzerland is the seventh (7th) most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. Thus, it’s an incredibly safe country for a woman to travel alone. The country even performed very well when it came to street safety and low crime rates — I can attest to this fact because of my personal experiences.

One situation that always comes to mind was when I once left my wallet at a crowded train station to Matterhorn ; I only found out that I lost it when it was sunset ( as it was my cue to go back to my hotel ). ‘Lo and behold, the train staff held on to it and nothing was lost!

  • READ MORE: Switzerland Travel Guides

Hamnoy Lofoten, Norway

If I say so myself, it comes as no surprise that Norway (or any of the Scandinavian nations) is regarded as one of the most female-friendly countries in the world. With high standards of living, crime rates are found to be extremely low even in major cities such as Oslo and Stavanger .

With that said, it’s a must to try and do a road trip through this wonderful European city and chase the northern lights , hike to the famed Trolltunga or explore Arctic fjords !

  • READ MORE: Norway Travel Guides

7. Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal makes it to this list of the safest destinations for female travelers and it scores big points not only for its magnificent scenery but also for its good track record with women’s rights and cultures.

Some of the things to look forward to during your visit are the vibrant city of Lisbon , the dramatic views over Christ the King , and the turquoise-blue waters .

  • READ MORE: Portugal Travel Guides

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Officially called the Republic of Croatia, this Mediterranean paradise features sapphire waters and pristine days — perfect for those who are seeking that premium European summer experience! Thankfully as well, crime in Croatia is relatively low, making it extremely safe for solo traveling, especially for females.

So don’t miss out on this country’s beauty and consider booking yourself a tour of the Plitvice Lakes or a sailing experience . I went solo on a 7-day sailing trip from Split to Dubrovnik before and I met a lot of amazing people, ate a lot of amazing Croatian delicacies, and did a lot of amazing experiences. True enough, it was one of the most amazing Eurotrip activities that I’ve done!

  • READ MORE: Croatia Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Canada

Canada attracts solo travelers for its safety, solid women’s rights record, and diverse range of scenery. In fact, of all the countries in North America, Canada is considered the safest destination for women travelers. Besides, Canadians have this worldwide reputation of being the friendliest people, and you’ll soon see why once you set foot in this spectacular country.

To add, it is home to a wide range of landscapes, including centuries-old forests, snow-covered mountains, breathtaking countrysides , and pristine lakes.

  • READ MORE: Canada Travel Guides

Krakow Market Square, Poland

Did you know? This Eastern European country is regarded as the safest place in Europe according to OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) and it’s mainly due to its low crime rates and positive attitude towards tourists. Even in the capital of Warsaw , though there might be some petty crimes here and there, solo travellers and female travelers alike will still feel relatively safe, especially with how hospitable Polish people are.

For some of the top must-do’s, I recommend rediscovering the story of World War III by stopping at Auschwitz and the Schindler’s Factory .

  • READ MORE: Poland Travel Guides

11. United Kingdom

Big Ben, London, United Kingdom

Comprised of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, this historic state packs a lot of allure for visitors of any kind — no matter if it’s from their bustling cities such as London or peaceful countrysides like Windsor .

To date, much like most European countries, traveling to the United Kingdom is very safe. For years, it is regarded as one of the safest countries for solo female travelers given that violent crime is rare. Though one of the reasons why it is placed a bit lower in this list is on how it ranks low on gender inequality and this can be somehow attributed to the pervasive ‘lad culture’ that has developed in the UK. Still and the same, for as long as you keep your wits with you, travel is generally regarded as safe.

  • READ MORE: United Kingdom Travel Guides

12. Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Netherlands is a famous European destination where tradition and innovation intertwine. There is much to be desired here: from tulip fields to romantic city canal cruises , from Van Gogh paintings to the gnawing history of Anne Frank , and so much more!

And as a solo female traveler, you will be needing some caution especially in big cities like Amsterdam — but still and the same, the Netherlands is generally a safe country to explore in (your biggest concern might just be pickpockets) . Besides, the Dutch are laid-back folks who are fairly polite; plus, I have traveled to this country far too many times by myself, and I have never felt unsafe.

  • READ MORE: Netherlands Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: France

France is the most sought-after destination in Europe, and due to this popularity and ensuing crowdedness, it’s expected that most females don’t feel fully safe at night (especially in the big city of Paris ) . Nevertheless, it still earns its spot as one of the safest countries for solo female travelers because of how it puts high regard for women’s rights.

Truth be told, the country has a low gender gap according to Ampersand. Moreover, catcalling and street harassment are outlawed and placed with hefty on-the-spot fines.

So don’t let any of your fears stop you from flying to this popular destination as you finally witness the majestic Eiffel Tower , visit the Louvre Museum , explore the fantastical castle island of Mont Saint Michel , drive through the French Riviera , and more!

  • READ MORE: France Travel Guides

14. Denmark

Nyhavn Port, Copenhagen, Denmark

As I previously mentioned, you should always expect Scandinavian countries to be on the list of safest countries for solo female travelers. Visitors will have little to worry about when it comes to crime, and women travelers also don’t have much to worry about when it comes to harassment. Crimes still occur, that’s a fact, but common sense should keep you out of trouble.

To make the most of your stay in Denmark, don’t forget to explore the Tivoli Gardens , take a trip to the ancient city of Roskilde, look for fossils at Møns Klint, sail a real Viking ship with the Viking Ship Museum, and so much more!

  • READ MORE: Denmark Travel Guides

Colosseum, Rome, Italy

When it comes to solo travel, Italy is an outstanding destination: it’s relatively safe and plenty of sights or activities to keep you occupied for a while! One of my favorite destinations in the country is Rome and even if it’s crowded, female travelers like I do will generally feel safe while exploring key places like the Colosseum , the Sistine Chapel , and Roman Forum among many others!

Of course, let’s not forget the other stunning cities of Florence , Venice , Naples … aaah , I can go on and on about Italy! All in all, there is just so much to see in this country, and as a solo traveler, you will be indulging in a lot of rewarding experiences.

  • READ MORE: Italy Travel Guides

16. Czech RepubliC

Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic

Rates of violent crimes are low in the Czech Republic, and even most of Prague’s areas are safe to walk around even after dark. The country just so happens to be low on the list given the bad rating for its global gender gap. But as per usual, just use common sense much like how you would in any place in the world (even your home country) and you’ll be fine here as a solo female traveler.

There is much to see, after all, in this amazing country: the Charles Bridge along with the grand Prague Castle , the quaint town of Český Krumlov , and many others.

  • READ MORE: Czech Republic Travel Guides

Old Town (Gamla Stan), Stockholm, Sweden

This Scandinavian wonder earns its place in this list of safest countries for solo female travelers due to its secure and progressive environment for women. The reason why Sweden scored lower than the other Scandinavian countries is mainly due to its low rating for non-partner and intimate partner sexual violence, as well as the global gender gap.

These factors aside, Sweden is still one of the safest countries in the world and you can enjoy a number of activities, namely: chasing after Northern Lights through Lapland, hiking through the King’s Trail (Kungsleden), etc. etc.

  • READ MORE: Sweden Travel Guides

18. Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle, Fussen, Germany

Germany is also incredibly safe, not just for solo female travelers but also for other kinds of travelers as well. Plus, with a highly efficient rail network to take advantage of, tourists can move between central cities and most places in between with great ease!

And of course, aside from being a safe country to travel to, Germany has so much to offer — from magical castles like Neuschwanstein to stunning natural sights of Zugspitze , from vibrant Oktoberfest festivities to enriching city tours , and more!

  • READ MORE: Germany Travel Guides

Santorini, Greece

With over hundreds of inhabited Greek islands, tourists are highly unlikely to experience crime or violence — even more so for women. Hence, Greece is a very safe country to travel to at any time.

You might need to put more caution when traveling to more popular places like Athens, but in general, most destinations are safe with petty crime being the main crime you might have to pay heed to. But as long as you do basic precautionary measures, your trip should be smooth sailing!

Speaking of sailing, apart from trying sailing trips , you should also try sailing (or flying!) to other places to experience incredible sights such as that of Santorini , Crete , and others!

  • READ MORE: Greece Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Japan

I gotta admit, I expected Japan to be ranked higher on this list because it’s truly one of the safest countries for solo female travelers. Case in point, I’ve been traveling to this destination solo for probably more than 15 times now; I’ve walked through tiny alleys by myself in the wee hours of the night, and yet I have never felt unsafe nor encountered dangerous individuals.

So it truly came as a surprise to me to see that in the Women’s Danger Index, Japan ranked 20 out of 50. But then I realized that indeed… Japan has some problems when it comes to gender equality and attitudes toward women given that its society is still fairly misogynistic (which is deeply rooted in its old traditions and history) .

That aside, Japan is generally safe and it is even ranked 6th among the most peaceful countries in the world! With that in mind, it ticks all the other boxes: lively cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hiking trails, and delectable cuisine. Beyond the well-known cities of Tokyo and Kyoto , don’t forget to explore its off-the-beaten-path spots too such as the Chubu region.

  • READ MORE: Japan Travel Guides Japan Itinerary Guides

– – –

» Other Safe Destinations «

As you may have noticed by now, the Women’s Danger Index is only limited to the top 50 most popular destinations in the world for international tourists, so there are off-the-beaten-path (yet safe) countries that this research has missed out on as well as some other key destinations, namely…

Mt Cook National Park, New Zealand

1. New Zealand

I was actually surprised that this was not included in the previous top 50 list; nevertheless, New Zealand or ‘ Middle Earth ‘ (for Lord of the Rings fans) is the perfect destination for those who love adventure, sports, and nature. It is one of the safest countries in the world for solo female travelers and backpackers too given that it is the 2nd most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index.

  • READ MORE: New Zealand Travel Guides

Sydney, Australia

2. Australia

Australia , just like New Zealand is considered one of the safest countries in for solo female travelers. The Australian metropolis even continues to hold the crown as the Most Livable City , according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. The locals are also known for their warm hospitality and good cheer that’s why a lot of solo travelers consider backpacking around the country safe.

  • READ MORE: Australia Travel Guides

Godafoss Waterfall, Iceland

Iceland has some of the lowest crime rates and it’s ranked number one as the most peaceful country in the world on the Global Peace Index! The country is also one of the best destinations for solo female travelers in search of an ultimate female adventure journey (or a road trip at that!). After all, the country is a haven for travelers who love the outdoors, with numerous waterfalls to explore , glaciers to hike and geothermal spas to soak in .

  • READ MORE: Iceland Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Seoul, South Korea

4. South Korea

South Korea is actually #21 on the Women’s Danger Index, so I thought that it’s worth mentioning this in this list of safest countries in the world especially because it IS safe. Much like Japan, I’ve had no problems traveling around the country as a woman; the only issue why South Korea scored low is its attitude towards women due to its society that’s similar to Japan. But don’t let this dissuade you from traveling to this amazing destination!

  • READ MORE: South Korea Travel Guides

Taipei, Taiwan

When it comes to world standards, Taiwan’s crime rate is low; so much like its other East Asian countries , it’s a destination that is pretty much safer than many other places in the world. And as a solo female traveller, you’ll love the array of things to do in Taiwan !

  • READ MORE: Taiwan Travel Guides

Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi,Finland

The only explanation why this Scandinavian country is not in the top 20 is because it was not regarded as the top 50 most visited countries in the world. Nevertheless, much like its neighbors, the country is a haven for solo women travelers who are seeking for a range of exciting sights and activities!

  • READ MORE: Finland Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Philippines

7. Philippines

I’m not just saying this because of bias, but primarily because the Philippines IS a safe destination for solo girl travelers. After all, the Filipinos are probably the friendliest and most hospitable people that you’ll ever meet. Add the fact that English is one of the 2 official languages in the country, you won’t have a hard time going around the islands. Just use your best instincts and ‘street smarts’ at all time to not be targeted for petty crimes.

  • READ MORE: Philippines Travel Guides

Padar Island, Indonesia

8. Indonesia

Single travelers should never shy away from Indonesia’s charms because they hardly face any real threat or danger. A lot of solo travelers, after all, have been to this amazing country and they have all had a great time! Just don’t throw your common sense out of the window and you’ll have a smooth Indonesia trip right from day one.

  • READ MORE: Indonesia Travel Guides

Wat Arun, Bangkok, Thailand

9. Thailand

This is truly a favorite destination in Southeast Asia and while Thailand is generally safe, you should still be wary of your surroundings, as well as some of the cultural norms (e.g. some temples don’t allow women, you shouldn’t sit beside Buddhist monks in public transport, etc.) . There’s much to be said about attitudes toward women, but still, it’s a relatively secure destination for females.

  • READ MORE: Thailand Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Sossusvlei, Namibia Desert

10. Namibia

This has got to be the safest country for solo travelers in Africa especially since the locals are friendly and that most towns exude a safe atmosphere for tourists (the biggest danger that you might face are wild animals) . Just do your research beforehand and you’ll be fine!

» 5 Worst Countries for Women Traveling Alone «

  • DISCLAIMER : The countries in this list are those that ranked the poorest on the Women’s Danger Index that collects the top 50 most-visited countries worldwide. Naturally, this does NOT mean that you shouldn’t travel to these countries — in fact, it’s the opposite. . You should still go especially if you want to, BUT just take note that you must exercise caution due to the country’s bad record or attitudes toward women. If you’re still not confident, it doesn’t hurt to travel with a companion!

1. South Africa

When I first visited Africa, Zambian locals expressed worry when I told them that my next solo destination was South Africa . “Are you heading alone to Johannesburg?” , they asked. When I replied ‘ Cape Town ‘, they breathed a sigh of relief and added, “that’s fine, just be aware of your surroundings especially since you’re alone.” I found it odd how they reacted like that, but after careful research, their reaction made sense because the country has historically treated women cruelly, not to mention the high crime rates.

My trip to Cape Town went smoothly and though there were a few moments that I felt unsafe, I still thoroughly enjoyed my stay there! It might be because I spent most of my time driving around tourist areas ( it’s said that most crime takes place in the townships ); nevertheless, just exercise caution at all times and behave conservatively.

It might not be a surprise to you to see Brazil in this list of worst countries for solo female travelers because if you do a Google search, most articles won’t sugarcoat the reality that it’s a dangerous country — not only for women but for men too. It has a high rate of crime and most embassies will caution you to never walk alone at night and to never resist any robbery attempts.

It’s still fine to travel alone, but if you ask me, this is not the best place to start with especially if you’re a newbie or beginner solo traveler.

This is yet another surprising discovery when I went through the Women’s Danger Index because I have also traveled to Russia alone but I have never felt unsafe there — not even in the big cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg . But indeed, that’s just my experience. Apparently, this vodka-loving destination is one of the worst when it comes to legal discrimination and general attitudes towards women.

Safety is, of course, never guaranteed wherever you may be in the world but some places are riskier than others. Mexico is one of those places and this may be also expected by some of you especially because it has low ratings when it comes to street safety and violence.

Other solo travelers might argue otherwise and I’m a bit on the fence with that. I traveled to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, as well as Tulum in 2021 at a time when some cartel shootings just happened and there were a lot of army folks doing their rounds — it added a sense of security but it still felt unsafe at some times. My whole trip ended with no incident and I believe that some areas are safer than others (e.g. Valladolid); but I guess what I’m just trying to say is: just do your research and be cautious, and I’m sure you’ll be able to gauge your level of comfort.

This came as yet another surprise for me because I regard Iran as one of the safest countries in the Middle East (I guess it just scores low as compared to the rest of the top 50 most-visited places worldwide) . Though for you, you might have expected this because of how the media portrays this country; however, I urge you to do your own research so you can see how a lot of solo female travelers had no problems journeying through this country alone. You just need to prepare for some things first (e.g. knowing how wearing a hijab is mandatory in the country, knowing how there’s gender segregation in public, etc.) and you’ll be fine.

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers

Solo female travel has since become a worldwide trend and I hope that this article helped give you some ideas on the safest countries to travel to!

Of course, there’s the reality that despite this assuring list, the chance of being harassed is still possible — however, this should never stop you from pursuing your travel dreams! A lot of women have gone through such adventures and YOU can too.

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Monica Singh

Wonderful post! I’ve been eyeing Switzerland for a solo trip but never got the time. Once the borders are open, I will make this my first destination to travel in 2021.

Aileen Adalid

You’ll definitely love it! I hope you get to go soon :D

manda roseblade

I find all countries in South East Asia considerably more safe than ANY in mainland Europe or the UK. The reason for this is that predatory men are considerably more interested in Asian women than in taking on a European woman traveller. The countries that are predominantly Buddhist have a completely different mindset and you are very unlikely, if you take a modest and respectful approach, to experience crime. Quite the reverse…l understand that if you expose yourself to full moon parties, excessive alcohol consumption and red light districts this may not be the case.

Lyric Fergusson

Thanks for sharing our research, Aileen. I loved your commentary and personal experiences you included throughout the article.

I’m glad you like it! Thank you as well for the amazing research. :D

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South Sudan Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice

This post may contain affiliate links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer here and our Privacy Policy here .

female solo travel sudan

Welcome to the Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice page for South Sudan !

This page is brought to you by Solo Female Travelers Tours , our curated small group trips for women, by women.

On this page you will find first-hand, unbiased, and real  safety tips, advice and reviews  from women traveling solo, submitted directly from their personal experiences in the country.

Their opinions are unfiltered and submitted independently as part of the Solo Female Travel Safety Index , a ranking of 210 countries and regions based on how safe they are for women traveling solo.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers.

You don’t need to login to read the below reviews. But do sign up or login to share your solo travel experiences, country safety rating and comments.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE – LEAVE YOUR SAFETY REVIEWS! We can make the world a safer place for women traveling solo together. Sign up to our portal and leave your reviews NOW. Share your experience with other solo female travelers and help us empower more women through travel.

South Sudan Country data

We have compiled a few data points below that can help you better understand South Sudan and have more context when thinking about travel safety.

Official country name: Republic of South Sudan.

Etymology: Self-descriptive name from the country's former position within Sudan prior to independence. The name "Sudan" derives from the Arabic "bilad-as-sudan" meaning "Land of the Black [peoples]".

Country map

female solo travel sudan

Locator map

female solo travel sudan

Capital: Juba.

Independence / foundation: South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan on 9 July 2011, is the world’s newest country. The land comprising modern-day South Sudan was conquered first by Egypt and later ruled jointly by Egyptian-British colonial administrators in the late 19th century. The Second Sudanese civil war was one of the deadliest since WWII, and left Southern Sudanese society devastated by humanitarian crises and economic deterioration. Peace talks resulted in a US-backed Comprehensive Peace Agreement, signed in January 2005, which granted the South a six-year period of autonomy followed by a referendum on final status. The result of this referendum, held in January 2011, was a vote of 98% in favor of secession.

Population: 11 million.

Currency: South Sudanese Pound (SSP) 1 USD = 130 SSP 1 EUR = 140 - 160 SSP

Time zone: UTC+2

Languages spoken: English (official), Arabic (includes Juba and Sudanese variants), ethnic languages include Dinka, Nuer, Bari, Zande, Shilluk.

Religions: Christian 60%, folk religion 33%, Muslim 6%, other

Climate: Dry desert weather with arid conditions and minimal rain.

Real GDP (ppp – purchasing power parity): $20 billion.

Real GDP per capita (ppp): $1,600.

Main airports: Juba International Airport.

World heritage sites in South Sudan

There are over 1,100 world heritage sites spread across more than 165 countries. New ones are added every year, and some may be removed from the list for various reasons.

Number of UNESCO listed sites : 0.

Top world heritage sites :

Interesting facts about South Sudan

female solo travel sudan

Further reading : N/A.

South Sudan Travel tips

Socket type: C / D. Guide to socket types .

Weekend days: Saturday and Sunday.

Driving: Cars drive on the Right.

Local taxi apps: ShiluANA , RABATaxi .

Travel Guides: Bradt Guide .

Languages spoken : English (official), Arabic (includes Juba and Sudanese variants), ethnic languages include Dinka, Nuer, Bari, Zande, Shilluk.

Basic words and phrases in the main language:

Find a hotel in South Sudan

Book tours and activities :

More about South Sudan on Solo Female Travelers

Did you spot any errors? We do our best to keep this information updated and accurate, but things change. If you saw anything that is not right, let us know so we can fix it: [email protected] .

About the Solo Female Travel Safety Index

Safety matters to solo female travelers, you told us so in our annual  Solo Female Travel Survey , where year after year, women prove that this is their most important concern when traveling solo.

We wanted to do something about it, so we built these country-specific pages where you can find reviews and scores for 7 key variables affecting the safety of women traveling solo.

  • Risk of scam
  • Risk of theft
  • Risk of harassment
  • Attitudes towards women
  • UK Travel Advisory
  • US Travel advisory
  • Global Peace Index (GPI)

Informing OSAC

The Solo Female Travel Safety Score is used by the Overseas Security Advisory Council for including safety concerns for women travelers in their country security reports; OSAC is a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and private-sector security community.

female solo travel sudan

How to use the Safety Index

On this page, you will find the country score and the personal opinions on safety of other women traveling solo.

You can sort the comments by:

  • The  level of experience traveling solo  of the reviewer (beginner = <5 trips solo, Intermediate = 5 to 10 trips solo, Experienced = >10 trips solo).
  • The  age  of the traveler.
  • Whether they are a  visitor or local .
  • The  date  they were posted.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers. 

Thus, the lower the score, the safer the country.

Looking for more safety resources?

This entire website is devoted to helping women travel solo. Check out the links below to learn more:

female solo travel sudan

Solo Female Travel Stats : Results from the the largest, most comprehensive and only global research study on solo female travel trends, preferences and behaviors published.

Thanks to Jacobo Vilella for creating the Solo Female Travelers Safety Index ❤️

Protect Your Trip »

Solo travel for women: the 18 best destinations (plus tips).

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

Solo Travel for Women

Iceland landscape photo of brave girl who proudly standing with his arms raised in front of water wall of mighty waterfall.

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

female solo travel sudan

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

African elephant (Loxodonta africana) Calves playing. Okovango Delta, Botswana

Botswana is well known for African wildlife safaris , where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. "Wildlife travel offers an outstanding combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy," says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel . She recommends Botswana's green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you navigate airports or transfers. In Smith's experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. "Solo female travelers can enjoy daily shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what's best for you," she says.

Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

female solo travel sudan

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. "The idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

female solo travel sudan

With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

female solo travel sudan

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com , who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende . "I decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

female solo travel sudan

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to," she says. Ragusa adds that New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.

Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

People hiking in a row on the ice of Perito Moreno glacier, Los Glaciares national park, Santa Cruz province, Patagonia Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Old City of Dubrovnik situated on the Dalmatian coast, became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO. Clinging to a rock, encased by a girdle of ramparts and lapped by a turquoise sea, Croatia’s famous town is fully worthy of its title “Pearl of the Adriatic”.

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus) sniffs air while walking on rocky shore of Malmgren Island on foggy evening. | Location: Malmgren Island, Svalbard, Norway.

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

Ireland, County Clare, Lahinch: tourist gazing at the majestic Cliffs of Moher at sunset in late spring.

Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Thai traditional wooden longtail boat and beautiful sand Railay Beach in Krabi province. Ao Nang, Thailand.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Amsterdam buildings at sunrise

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

female solo travel sudan

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique," she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.

Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers' experiences prior to booking a trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

female solo travel sudan

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

View of the Galata Tower and The Suleymaniye Mosque at dusk in Istanbul, Turkey

Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad." She adds, "Don't do things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Bali, Indonesia

female solo travel sudan

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com , who has been traveling solo full time for the past year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Young woman tourist in sun hat and white dress standing in front of Eiffel Tower in Paris at sunset. Travel in France, tourism concept. High quality photo

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

New York City

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It's hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square , award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty . Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org , loves taking a solo trip to New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Oct 2004

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

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More women embracing independence of solo travel

Feb. 7 (UPI) -- More and more, women are leaving their partners, boyfriends, kids and pets at home as they venture out to explore the world on their own.

Over the past two years, women have embraced traveling alone or with female friends, searching for a break from daily life while unlocking a new level of independence, spontaneity and freedom.

The solo travel trend has seen a boom in the last decade and is expected to increase. In 2017, 27% of travelers preferred exploring new places on their own. In 2019, that rose to 39%; in 2021, it jumped to 47%. Today, the share of solo travelers is more than 50%, according Solo Traveler World .

More than half of those travelers are women, most of whom aren't waiting for someone to accompany them or give them permission to take these experiential trips.

A report by Road Scholar , a Boston-based tour operator of educational group travel for older adults, found that 60% of its solo traveler customers in 2022 were married women heading off without their spouses.

Kelly Kimple, who started Adventures in Good Company in Colorado 25 years ago, said the all-female-adventure tour company has a 79% repeat customer rate.

"Small-group trips with other women who share similar interests offer a structured space to foster social connectedness and a more comfortable environment to open up and share their goals, fears and joys with each other," Kimple told UPI.

Life transitions

Catalysts for this travel include significant life transitions such as breakups, retirement or change of residence, but can be as simple as wanting to explore the world.

Brittany Betts, a travel expert at HawaiianIslands.com, said traveling solo provides women an opportunity to get to know themselves.

"When I travel solo, I find that I focus more on little things that make me happy rather than worrying about what makes my spouse happy," she said. "I focus more on immersing myself in the culture and doing small things like visiting local coffee shops and talking to locals."

According to RateGain, a global provider of travel and hospitality data, the trend of "friendcations" is expected to rise, with solo travelers coming from different places to stay with other solo travelers at a destination.

RateGain President Peter Strebel said the solo "set-jetting'' trend -- visiting a location featured in movies or TV shows -- also is expected to grow this year.

He said Thailand (featured in The White Lotus Season 3), Malta (the setting for Gladiator 2) , the Scottish Highlands (as seen in Outlander ), South Korea (anticipated for Squid Game Season 2) and Greece (spotlighted in Argylle ) would likely emerge as prominent tourist destinations in 2024.

More options

Phyllis Polaner, a travel specialist with SmartFlyer, has been organizing solo trips for herself, friends and customers for more than a decade. At the end of a girls' trip in Lake Tahoe, where she is skiing with friends, Polaner said more options are available for women traveling solo than ever before.

"We see so many requests from 30- to 70-year-old women after being either stuck inside, going through a change of couple status or just wanting to explore a personal passion," Polaner said.

After a while, she said, hotels and resorts have finally caught on, offering more small-group promotions for women. Some hotels even have women-only floors.

Polaner said she's heard lots of reasons women want to venture out alone, but some are the most common.

"'The kids are finally back at school or university,' 'My husband doesn't want to do anything,' 'I need to find a place to just be myself,' 'I want to meet others and party,' and the desire to check off bucket-list items like cooking in Italy are some I hear a lot," she said.

Megan Grant, founder of Cherish Tours, said 75% of the travelers she works with sign up to travel by themselves.

"The women who sign up alone do so because they are either single, have a spouse who isn't interested in traveling with them, and/or don't have a friend or group of friends to travel with," Grant said.

"Women are no longer letting these factors hold them back from making the choice to travel. With or without a travel companion, they are getting out there to explore and travel the world."

'Transformational experiences'

Grant said this trend started around the 1970s, and women from the Baby Boomer and Gen X generations are traveling alone because they weren't allowed to when they were younger.

The pandemic also created time for people to reflect on what they truly want for their lives, which has led to more travel, she said.

"Women have transformational experiences when they travel solo," she said. "They learn new things about themselves, about other women traveling with them and the world around them."

There are also added advantages to traveling alone, including single-occupancy discounts at hotels, faster-moving singles lines at amusement parks, discounted seats at shows and performances, and even hot restaurants where solo diners without reservations can sometimes squeeze in at the bar, according to Do-Tell Publicity President and CEO Kat Fleischman.

Sharing interests

Fleischman said solo travelers can use sites like Meetup and Fun JetSetter that help break the ice with others who share interests. But there are tricks to help navigate solo traveling, including not oversharing personal information, using a financial "safe word" and stepping into a store or cafe instead of standing on the street to use a cellphone.

As a TedX speaker, travel lifestyle and business coach, Heather Markel has shared the story of her travel adventures since 2018, traveling to 39 countries, including being marooned in New Zealand for two years during the pandemic, where she was on her own and had to find a community to avoid being alone.

Markel suggests women traveling alone be aware of their surroundings and behavior, paying extra for a taxi home if they're coming back at night and staying in high-quality hotels.

"Always learn what areas to avoid, the same way you do at home, and don't go there," she said. "Try a free walking tour. The guides are great, and I almost always meet someone else who is solo, or a couple and end up grabbing at least a bite to eat after the tour."

More women embracing independence of solo travel

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If You Check Into A Hotel And THIS Happens, You Should Request A Room Change Right Away

"This might seem like no big deal, but it matters — especially for solo female travelers."

Liz Richardson

BuzzFeed Staff

Patrice J. Williams is a travel writer and on-air lifestyle expert, who recently went viral for sharing a simple travel tip that will make your hotel stay safer — especially if you're traveling solo.

Patrice J. Williams wearing a tie-dye top and orange skirt smiling on a city street

The Brooklyn-based content creator has captured the attention of over 840K viewers in a TikTok video that begins with an unexpected caution: "If you check into a hotel room, and they do this, change your room immediately."

Patrice holds a hotel room card to the camera in her TikTok video with the text, &quot;If you check into a hotel room, and they do this, change your room immediately&quot;

"When you’re checking into your hotel, you’re at the front desk, and if the front desk clerk says, 'Hey, here’s your key, here’s your room, you’re in Room 1125,' change your room," Patrice says in the clip. "The reason behind that is that the front desk attendant should never say your room number out loud. Never. Never. Never."

Patrice continues talking in the video with the text: &quot;The front desk attendant should never say your room number out loud&quot;

"Someone who works in hospitality will know that they made a major mistake." Patrice explains that instead, front desk employees should simply hand over your key with the room information, without sharing the number out loud, which could potentially make you a target for anyone overhearing the info nearby.

Buzzfeed spoke to patrice, who further explained why having your room shared out loud is a huge no-no in the hospitality world. "hotel lobbies, especially the check-in area, can be pretty busy and packed with people. some people are staying at the hotel, and others aren't even guests so, having a front desk attendant announcing your exact room number can pose a safety risk," she said. "anyone in earshot will know exactly where you'll be resting your head, whether that's for a single night or several days. this can especially be problematic for solo travelers.".

Hotel receptionist handing a key card over the counter

"There's no need for strangers to know your room number, what hotel you're staying at, or any specific details when traveling," she added.

Hotel room door slightly ajar with key and tag labeled &quot;206&quot; hanging from the handle, room interior visible

So, if the mistake is made, Patrice recommends that you can politely request a room change, and they should change it without any issues. "You don’t have to make a big deal out of it," she says in the original TikTok. "'Hey, can I change my room? I would just prefer that my room number isn’t announced out loud.' That is it."

In her past travels, patrice shared that she's had several instances where front desk attendants have announced her exact room number or the floor she was on and didn't think much of it — but the last time it happened, she decided to voice her concern. "i went back to the front desk and politely asked for my room to be changed as i didn't feel comfortable with my room number being announced. i was traveling alone, and the lobby was quite busy, so a lot of people were around, including guests or non-guests who could have overheard my room number.".

Patrice in a fur cami top and satin pants seated at an outdoor cafe with a historic building in the background

Since the TikTok went live, Patrice has gotten quite a positive response. Over 900 commenters shared their thoughts on the tip, with several expressing how helpful it was and that they had never realized the potential safety risk, especially for women who are traveling alone.

User Kristina Girod comments on a post, expressing gratitude for new solo travel information she found helpful

Multiple hospitality employees wholeheartedly agreed with the advice and confirmed that employees are trained to never say the room number out loud. A former hotel front office supervisor even shared that it's the "first thing" employees are trained on.

A comment that says, &quot;I used to be a front office supervisor at a hotel and that is the first thing we train them on; never say the room number out loud&quot;

One former hotel manager commented, "Please request a new room.... Because they should not say your room number out loud and make sure you report them to the nearest [manager]."

A comment regarding hotel privacy practices, advising to request a new room if confidentiality is breached

A former front desk agent also said, "They should NEVER say your room number out loud. She's absolutely right, change it right then and there."

A comment advising to change hotel rooms if the room number is said aloud for security

One commenter even shared that when they repeated their number out loud at one hotel, the clerk immediately changed it (what an angel, TBH!).

A commenter recounting a hotel experience about changing a room number for privacy, wishing the clerk well

And while hotel employees will typically fulfill the request without any problem, some people had questions about what to do if they make it a big deal or charge you for the change. So, Patrice uploaded a second TikTok , explaining that you can ask to speak with a manager to get it sorted out. She also added that you're not asking for an upgrade, so there shouldn't be any extra fee, as the employee should know they made a mistake.

"It shouldn’t be a problem at all if you need to change your room. It’s nice, it’s easy, it’s simple. If someone makes you seem like you’re being difficult, you’re probably staying at the wrong hotel…but 90-plus percent of the time, it’s not a problem at all," she said in the follow-up video.

But with the positive responses, there were some comments from people who felt the extra step was unnecessary. "Of course, there have been a few people who remark this safety tip is just being 'extra' and living in fear. Even if it's 'extra,' so what?" According to Patrice, it's better to be safe than sorry.

Patrice in her TikTok video, talking to the camera

"I hope the video doesn't scare people, especially women, from traveling solo. But instead, just inspires them to be mindful of what info they or others share." As someone who is passionate about making travel content, especially for women traveling solo, Patrice shares the lessons and essential advice she's learned to help both seasoned and new travelers safely enjoy their time, wherever they are. She says it best: "Travel should be accessible, safe, and intimidation-free."

To keep up with patrice's travel adventures as well as her tips and hacks, be sure to follow her tiktok @patricejwill and instagram @patricejwill ., share this article.

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The joy and freedom of a solo holiday as an older woman

Female readers reflect on their experiences of travelling alone in response to an article by Joanna Moorhead

Thank you for Joanna Moorhead’s wonderful article on solo travel ( Long lunches, casual friendships, no one to worry about: solo holidays are brilliant for older women like me, 5 March ). I’m on my first ever solo holiday, after 52 years of marriage. When I arrived in Vietnam, the guide who met me asked: “Why are you travelling alone?” I felt taken aback, but gather that this type of direct question is a cultural norm.

Much travelled but always with family, I feared that I might feel melancholy. Far from it. Apart from my itinerary, which was planned with a travel agent, I’ve felt liberated by doing what I wanted, without worrying about everyone else.

Vietnam is a fascinating country with a turbulent history to spice things up. Sightseeing has been refreshingly different. Visits to a series of mausoleums may seem grim, but far from it. These ornate, diverse complexes near Hue reflect each emperor’s unique personality. The only problem I’ve encountered is mansplaining – on long-haul flights and in restaurants.

Why am I alone? My husband has severe frontotemporal dementia. Of course, my thoughts turn to our excellent holidays together, but those days are gone and I’m lucky that, for me, still working hard and earning, carer’s respite can be exotic. I look forward to getting back to see him. Meanwhile, don’t hesitate, sisters – go travel! Rosalind Duhs London

I recently spent a month travelling solo in Italy and it was one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. Women over 50 are more than able when it comes to navigating transport issues, meeting new people and experiencing new challenges. Many doubt themselves and worry that they’ll be lonely, but there is a fantastic world out there waiting to be explored.

With translation apps, some basic phrases and a dose of common sense, you can travel easily, and once you’ve travelled with partners, family and friends, it is such a joy to do things like this for yourself.

I never felt alone and I found Deborah Ives’ Facebook group Solo in Style , mentioned in your article, so empowering – always supportive, with great practical advice and a good kick up the backside when needed (when I lost a bag and felt very sorry for myself).

You meet amazing people when travelling alone and can change your plans at a moment’s notice. You also learn to dig deep and realise that you have resilience and abilities that you never thought you had. Janice Falconer Falkirk, Stirlingshire

In my late 20s, I travelled solo around Brazil by bus. I bought a one-way ticket, and returned three years later. When I tell people this, nobody bats an eyelid. But now, in my 50s with a grownup son and the same sense of wanderlust I had three decades ago, if I mention that I’m going to Mexico for a month, or have just returned from a trip to Cuba alone, I seem to get a response from women of my age of either horror or awe: “What, on your own?”

Yes, always – my time, my itinerary. A last-minute ticket to the theatre, people-watching at pavement cafes, a book and picnic in the park, eating what I want when I want, an impromptu afternoon of live music and beer, galleries and museums, and a flea market – always a flea market. No people-pleasing, no negotiating. When I do want company, what could be better than striking up a conversation in a cafe or gallery, or booking myself on to a local cooking course or a small tour? I travel alone, but I am never lonely.

I was once in a restaurant at lunchtime with my mother, where there was a woman sitting alone – a traveller, engrossed in a book, she had a couple of glasses of wine, a main course and a dessert, and some chitchat with the waiter. I must admit I was a little envious. I wondered what she had planned for an afternoon alone in London.

Later that day, my mother, who hates being alone, said: “Did you notice that poor woman on her own at lunchtime? I felt so sorry for her.” I guess it’s all about perception. Sam Menezes Newington Green, London

Age does not need to be a barrier to travel if you can still get about. In February 2020, I went on a trip to Morocco when I was 92. I use a walker for fractures in my back, but I can walk quite fast and had no problem keeping up with the tour group. On the first morning in Marrakech, I overslept and found that the tour had already left, so I got a taxi and followed their itinerary in the hope of catching up with them. In fact, they had missed their planned visit to one of the most impressive palaces. I went round it (free, when they saw my walker) and then walked on my own to a shopping street, to be dazzled by the mounds of colourful spices and the gorgeous silks in the clothing shops.

It was useful to speak a bit of French for asking directions, but I had no trouble finding a taxi back to the hotel, where our kind and competent tour guide invited me to lunch because he felt bad at having left me behind. Excursions to the Marjorelle Gardens, the Atlas mountains and Essaouira caused no problems. I had worried that no one would want to socialise with someone as old as me, but I was lucky enough to find an interesting group aged about 50 to 75 who would meet for drinks before and after dinner, and were quite prepared to chat.

I was even saved from the ultimate holiday disaster of losing my wallet by the quick-thinking tour guide. I had not noticed it fall out of my bag while I was taking a photo by a stream in a Bedouin village. A small boy selling beads picked it up and handed it to our guide.

It was only a six-day tour, but we said goodbye with regret. Morocco is a fascinating country with plenty of landscapes to look at, a tradition of superb workmanship and a cuisine that is both Arab and French: tagines and patisserie. A coach tour there was a great experience and perfectly feasible at 92. Jennifer Wells Lewes, East Sussex

I am reading the feature about solo holidays on a rare day when my toddler is in nursery and I am not snowed under with work (or rather, I probably am, but am ignoring it). The article feels like the dreamy promise of a very distant future that might never happen. For those parents who, like me, can only dream of an actual holiday, may I suggest skiving off work occasionally for a solo lunch (me, just now – toast slathered with mayonnaise and tomato – good enough to pass for tapas), a solo walk, a solo trip to the cinema? If you half close your eyes and put your phone away, it almost feels like freedom.

The ironic thing is that I did go on the odd solo adventure in a past life and had to fight hard to get over the loneliness of it. Oh, how I would love my loneliness back. It puts me in mind of a line from Rainer Maria Rilke’s Letters to a Young Poet: “ Love your solitude ”. Name and address supplied

I’m married to someone who does not fly, so I took the plunge at solo travel nearly 20 years ago and have never looked back. Argentina, Antarctica and the Iguazu Falls were ticked off my bucket list. The terror of dining alone in Buenos Aires was dispelled by taking a book – no mobile phones in those days.

Wherever I travel in the world, there are helpful and friendly people, so don’t be afraid to ask. The Galápagos Islands were so much better on a small boat than a cruise, and viewing Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, having walked the last part of the trail, was incredible.

At 77 years of age, I depart next week to tick off Chile’s Atacama desert and Easter Island. So I say, go for it – what have you got to lose? Andrea Stow Cleckheaton , West Yorkshire

Joanna Moorhead’s article resonated with me. Unable to afford solo travel when a young student, I began to travel within Europe in my 60s – single again and with adult children and grandchildren.

I deliberately chose smaller cities with art galleries and museums that drew me, eg Porto for the Serralves museum, Málaga for the Picasso museum etc. Below is a poem that I wrote in situ that perhaps speaks to this issue. Gillie Harries Bristol

Restaurante Avero, Porto 14.03.2018

I eat alone You are alone? The charming maitre d’ asks. Yes, for now, alone I respond. I sit, Giselle has slammed Her fury over the city, Beside the plate glass window A bowl of sopa fava warms My chill constitution I overlook the garden Of Virtudes A virtuous quiet exciting Lunch for one: Clean vinho verdhe Olives bread oil Painted with the ombre Of balsamic A solitary woman At peace, Perhaps like the American Or French woman seated before me Her back says She is enjoying This feasting also Bom Dia. A nacreous light Fades up from the Atlantic coast Along the rifled Douro. A yellow crane Moves its load Minutely, safely As we women are Now permitted Lone movement. The change, the shift; Carefully, slowly Safely. Aptly, on gazing up And this being a gallery, The black painted outline Of a bold female, faces Down the room Her eyes contest The space And a tree branches Clear from her cranium Knowledge, and solidarity Saint of lone women Diners, We have come of age. No longer pray for us.

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Sailor Cole Brauer makes history as the first American woman to race solo around the world

Aboard her 40-foot racing boat First Light ,  29-year-old Cole Brauer just became the first American woman to race nonstop around the world by herself.

The New York native pulled into A Coruña, Spain, on Thursday after a treacherous 30,000-mile journey that took 130 days.

She thanked a cheering crowd of family and fans who had been waiting for her on shore.

“This is really cool and so overwhelming in every sense of the word,” she exclaimed, before drinking Champagne from her trophy.

The 5-foot-2 powerhouse placed second out of 16 avid sailors who competed in the Global Solo Challenge, a circumnavigation race that started in A Coruña with participants from 10 countries. The first-of-its-kind event   allowed a wide range of boats to set off in successive departures based on performance characteristics. Brauer started on Oct. 29, sailing down the west coast of Africa, over to Australia, and around the tip of South America before returning to Spain.

Brauer is the only woman and the youngest competitor in the event — something she hopes young girls in and out of the sport can draw inspiration from.

“It would be amazing if there was just one girl that saw me and said, ‘Oh, I can do that too,’” Brauer said of her history-making sail.

It’s a grueling race, and more than half of the competitors have dropped out so far. One struck something that caused his boat to flood, and another sailor had to abandon his ship after a mast broke as a severe storm was moving in.

The four-month journey is fraught with danger, including navigating the three “Great Capes” of Africa, Australia and South America. Rounding South America’s Cape Horn, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet, is often likened to climbing Mount Everest because of its perfect storm of hazards — a sharp rise in the ocean floor and whipping westerly winds push up massive waves. Combined with the frigid waters and stray icebergs, the area is known as a graveyard for ships, according to NASA. Brauer  said  she was “so unbelievably stoked” when she sailed past Cape Horn in January.

Marco Nannini, organizer of the Global Solo Challenge, said the comparison to scaling Mount Everest doesn’t capture the difficulty of the race. Sailing solo means not just being a skipper but a project manager — steering the boat, fixing equipment, understanding the weather and maintaining one’s physical health.

Nannini cited the relatively minuscule number of people who have sailed around the world solo — 186, according to the International Association of Cape Horners — as evidence of the challenges that competitors face. More than 6,000 people have climbed Mount Everest, according to  High Adventure Expeditions .

Brauer stared down 30-foot waves that had enough force to throw her across the boat. In a scare caught on camera, she badly injured her rib   near the halfway point of the event. At another point, her team in the U.S. directed Brauer to insert an IV into her own arm due to dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea.

She was able to stay in constant communication with members of her team, most of whom are based in New England,   and keep herself entertained with Netflix and video calls with family through Starlink satellites.   That’s also how Brauer was able to use Zoom to connect with NBC News for an interview, while she was sailing about 1,000 miles west of the Canary Islands.

While Brauer was technically alone on First Light, she had the company of 450,000 followers on Instagram, where she frequently got candid about life on an unforgiving sea while reflecting on her journey.

“It all makes it worth it when you come out here, you sit on the bow, and you see how beautiful it is,” she said in an Instagram video, before panning the camera to reveal the radiant sunrise.

Brauer grew up on Long Island but didn’t learn to sail until she went to college in Hawaii. She traded in her goal of becoming a doctor for life on the water. But she quickly learned making a career as a sailor is extremely difficult, with professional racers often hesitant to welcome a 100-pound young woman on their team.

Even when she was trying to find sponsors for the Global Solo Challenge, she said a lot of people “wouldn’t touch her with a 10-foot pole” because they saw her as a “liability.”

Brauer’s message to the skeptics and naysayers? “Watch me.”

“I push so much harder when someone’s like, ‘No, you can’t do that,’ or ‘You’re too small,’” Brauer explained.

“The biggest asset is your mental strength, not the physical one,” Nannini said. “Cole is showing everyone that.”

Brauer hopes to continue competing professionally and is already eyeing another around-the-world competition, but not before she gets her hands on a croissant and cappuccino.

“My mouth is watering just thinking about that.”

Emilie Ikeda is an NBC News correspondent.

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VIDEO

  1. WIN 26KILLS IN CHAMPIONSHIP T1 EUROPE AND ÁRABIA

  2. Indian Travelling Alone In South Sudan Interior Areas 🇸🇸😳

COMMENTS

  1. Visit Sudan as a solo female traveler

    Northern Sudan is a perfectly suitable and safe destination for women. It is, however, a place best enjoyed with a bit of experience in Africa travel, as well as some understanding of Arab culture. Accommodation and facilities outside the capital are quite basic, so be ready for those shared squat toilets.

  2. Sudan Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice

    On this page you will find first-hand, unbiased, and real safety tips, advice and reviews from women traveling solo, submitted directly from their personal experiences in the country.. Their opinions are unfiltered and submitted independently as part of the Solo Female Travel Safety Index, a ranking of 210 countries and regions based on how safe they are for women traveling solo.

  3. Is Sudan Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

    5 Essential Packing Items for Sudan #1 Headscarf or Sarong - Female travellers especially may feel they want to wear a headscarf in Sudan to fit in. Although it's not strictly necessary it may make life easier. #2 Long, Thin Trousers - Legs need to be covered in this strict Islamic culture, but due to the extremely hot climate, having a thin linen or cotton pair like this is ideal.

  4. Ancient Sudan adventure for Solo Female Travelers

    The Solo Female Travelers difference - What makes us unique. ... In Sudan, something very special sets us apart from others: Our female guides and the time spent with local women. Sudan is a unique destination on its own and we are the only women only company taking you there. But what makes our trip extra special is the fact that it is ...

  5. Is Sudan safe for female travellers? 5 tips for sole women tourists

    Dress conservatively in Sudan. Is Sudan safe for female travellers. While women are not required to wear a hijab, or the like you should still follow cultural norms. Generally speaking arms and legs should be covered and you will need a headscarf if you plan to visit a mosque. When you are in the desert, things can be a bit more relaxed.

  6. Is Sudan Worth Visiting for Solo Female Travelers?

    Located in North-East Africa, Sudan is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. It is characterized by its vast deserts, the breathtaking Red Sea coastline, lush savannahs, and the agricultural richness of the Nile River valley. Sudan is home to over 200 pyramids, more than any country in the world, specifically in the ancient towns of Meroë and Gebel Barkal which ...

  7. Sudan travel tips

    As explained in our Sudan packing guide, the weather can change a lot from day to night with variations of 10-15 degrees Celsius. Although days will be hot, as soon as the sun sets, temperatures can drop in the desert and sometimes, they catch travelers unprepared. Don't forget to bring a jacket. Pack light and soft.

  8. 33 Things to Know Before You Travel Sudan

    5 Essential Packing Items for Sudan #1 Headscarf or Sarong - Female travellers may feel they want to wear a headscarf in Sudan to fit in. Although it's not strictly necessary for foreigners, it may make life easier. #2 Long, Thin Trousers - Legs need to be covered in this strict Islamic culture, but due to the extremely hot climate, having a thin linen or cotton pair like this is ideal.

  9. 11 Things You Need to Know Before Travelling to SUDAN

    3. Patience is key. Not much in Sudan happens quickly. When I arrived in Sudan, I quickly learned that if the internet says a bus ride will take 6 hours, it will actually take 10. If the internet says a standard cab fare is x amount, it will take 10 minutes of haggling to get the driver to agree to said amount.

  10. Sudan packing list

    Sanitary products: Availability of female hygiene products in Sudan is limited so you should bring your own with enough amount for the duration of the trip and any unexpected emergencies. A torch: Bring a torch and enough batteries for when the electricity goes off in Meroe (after 11pm) and for the camp in Soleb.

  11. JourneyWoman

    Exclusive Solo Travel Deals + Discounts. Pack Your Bags! Make the most of these exclusive travel discounts. Exclusive travel deals to help women over 50 travel in 2024 (Sponsored) Whether you're wanting to hike the Camino, explore the treasures of Europe, or looking to enjoy some well-earned relaxtion in the sun, discover these amazing travel ...

  12. What it's Like to Spend One Week Backpacking through SUDAN

    adventurouselle Africa, Sudan, Travel backpacking, solo female travel, Solo Travel, Sudan, Travel Blog, Travelling, wanderlust 38 Comments. ... Sudan travel isn't always straightforward, but it is absolutely worth the trouble! Lastly, I wish you all a happy holiday period. I hope you get to celebrate with your families safely this week and ...

  13. Safest Places in South Sudan for Solo Female Travel

    Despite its turbulent history, intrepid travelers will find South Sudan an intriguing destination brimming with unspoiled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. 1, Juba Juba, the capital city and largest urban area of South Sudan, sits majacly on the banks of the White Nile, in the southern part of the country.

  14. What Should Travelers Wear in Sudan? (Women and Men)

    Men traveling in Sudan should wear: Loose pants, full length or 3/4 length. Shirt with full length or mid-length sleeves. It's my impression that men can get away with showing slightly more arm and leg than women can, so 3/4 length knickers and a short sleeve shirt might be comfortable for male travelers.

  15. Solo Female Travel Like a Pro

    Preparing for a solo trip can be daunting and stressful, it can also generate a lot of anxiety. On the other hand, the preparation phase is also one of excitement and anticipation for many solo female travelers. Below are several resources that can help you plan a solo trip. First time solo trip - Tips for the first time you travel solo, we ...

  16. 11 Best Destinations in Africa for Solo Female Travellers

    Carrying on with the history theme, and getting to my favourite country in Africa, Lalibela in Ethiopia is a must-see destination for solo female travellers in Africa. Go on a Sunday, get up early, see the mass, explore the ancient churches, marvel at people's devotion, stare disbelieving at the lack of tourists and soak it all up.

  17. Female Solo Traveler Shares Biggest Concerns, Safety Tips

    These are the biggest challenges I face as a female solo traveler. Emily Hart. 2024-03-12T15:18:01Z An curved arrow pointing right. Share The letter F. Facebook. An envelope. It indicates the ...

  18. 20 Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers (+ 5 Worst!)

    It is one of the safest countries in the world for solo female travelers and backpackers too given that it is the 2nd most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index. 2. Australia. Australia, just like New Zealand is considered one of the safest countries in for solo female travelers.

  19. Solo Female Travel in Juba

    Connect with like-minded solo female travelers and local women, share your experiences, and make new friends along the way. Travel Ladies; Solo Travel ... Africa / South Sudan / Juba. Solo Female Travel in Juba. Juba is the capital of South Sudan, located in the southern part of the country. It is known for its vibrant markets, bustling ...

  20. Sudan solo female travel in April safe? : r/backpacking

    Read the bottom 2 comments at the bottom. The comments from people 2018-2020 sound fine. The women who have went in 2022 said they had a bad experience. Once local Sudanese woman said the situation is getting very heated again (this was dec 2022) and she would not advise any travel right now.

  21. Solo Female Travelers

    Solo Female Travel Safety Tips. Our solo female travel trends survey revealed that 73% of solo female travelers worry about their safety. Even those who are very experienced solo travelers and have taken more than 10 trips on their own, still worry almost as much. Traveling solo poses a lot of uncertainties and challenges and, for women, those ...

  22. Best Places for Solo Female Travel 2024: Travelers Insights

    Discover the best places for solo female travel and the top destinations picked by the female travellers for 2024 through firsthand accounts. From Vietnam's safety to Belize's hidden gems, explore unique experiences for fearless female explorers. ... Safaa, a female solo traveler originally from Sudan, picked Italy. The city of Venice is what ...

  23. South Sudan Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice

    Welcome to the Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice page for South Sudan! This page is brought to you by Solo Female Travelers Tours , our curated small group trips for women, by women. On this page you will find first-hand, unbiased, and real safety tips, advice and reviews

  24. Adventures In Good Company: Empowering Solo Women Travelers

    Solo women adventure travel is booming, the target market for Adventures in Good Company. ... Small groups, smart guides, intriguing itineraries, and a philosophy aimed at female travelers are the ...

  25. Solo Travel for Women: The 18 Best Destinations (Plus Tips)

    Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S ...

  26. More women embracing independence of solo travel

    The solo travel trend has seen a boom in the last decade and is expected to increase. In 2017, 27% of travelers preferred exploring new places on their own. In 2019, that rose to 39%; in 2021, it ...

  27. Long lunches, casual friendships, no one to worry about: solo holidays

    In the UK, the Association of Travel Agents says solo travel is up from 6% of trips in 2011 to 16% in 2023. Deborah Ives, who works in international marketing, is not surprised.

  28. Woman Shares Viral Hotel Room Safety Tip For Solo Travel

    As someone who is passionate about making travel content, especially for women traveling solo, Patrice shares the lessons and essential advice she's learned to help both seasoned and new travelers ...

  29. The joy and freedom of a solo holiday as an older woman

    Thank you for Joanna Moorhead's wonderful article on solo travel (Long lunches, casual friendships, no one to worry about: solo holidays are brilliant for older women like me, 5 March).I'm on ...

  30. Sailor Cole Brauer makes history as the first American woman to race

    The 5-foot-2 powerhouse placed second out of 16 sailors who competed in the Global Solo Challenge, a circumnavigation race that started in A Coruña, Spain, with participants from 10 countries.