There’s no doubt that solo travel has its appeals and advantages, but as the classic video game line goes, “It’s dangerous to go alone!” Or at least to some places. Sure, the freedom to wander and set your own itinerary, along with the feelings of empowerment and adventure that come with traveling on your own, all feels great. But it doesn’t make up for needing someone to watch your back when trekking through a sketchy area.
Whether it’s just having a trusted pair of eyes to keep watch over your luggage while you hit the bathroom, a second opinion to keep from getting conned, or just a partner to ward off sexual harassment (Seriously, try Googling “female solo travel”), there are just some places you should think twice about before visiting on your own.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Its iconic Table Mountain and pristine beaches like Camps Bay provide breathtaking views and ample opportunities for relaxation. The city boasts diverse cuisine, vibrant markets, and historical sites like Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent much of his time in captivity. With a mix of modernity and tradition, Cape Town offers a memorable experience for travelers seeking both stunning landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry.
c
But Cape Town also experiences high rates of street crime, including muggings, theft, and pickpocketing in some areas. Carjackings can also occur. Certain neighborhoods have higher crime rates, and tourists might stand out as potential targets. Staying alert, avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas, using reliable transportation, and following local safety advice can help mitigate risks and ensure a safer visit to this beautiful city.
Lima, Peru
The Peruvian capital city of Lima can strike pretty much any visitor has a paradise. It’s got beautiful beaches, museums, gorgeous weather, and plenty of festival sports. So you can see why a third of the country lives there. Oh, and it’s a prime jumping off point for a vacation that features a trip to Machu Picchu.
But a solo traveler should exercise caution when visiting Lima due to concerns related to crime and personal safety. While Lima is a vibrant and culturally rich city, it also has pockets of higher crime rates. Pickpocketing, petty theft, and scams targeting tourists can occur in crowded areas, public transportation, and tourist sites. Some neighborhoods are known to have safety challenges, and occasional reports of robberies can pose risks. Staying aware of surroundings, using reputable transportation, and avoiding displaying valuable items can help mitigate these risks and ensure a safer exploration of the city.
New Delhi, India
A solo traveler should exercise caution in New Delhi due to factors like crowded streets, potential for petty crime, and varied sanitation standards. Being aware of surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and securing belongings is advisable.
However, visiting New Delhi offers a rich cultural experience with historical landmarks like the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and the Lotus Temple. The city boasts vibrant markets, diverse cuisine, and a blend of modern and traditional India. Engaging with locals and exploring bustling neighborhoods like Chandni Chowk can be rewarding. In sum, while caution is necessary, New Delhi’s distinctive charm and cultural offerings make it an alluring destination for the intrepid traveler.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks. Its stunning beaches, like Copacabana and Ipanema, draw visitors with their golden sands and lively atmosphere. The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain provide breathtaking panoramic views. The city’s festive spirit, seen in its lively samba music, colorful Carnival celebrations, and diverse cuisine, creates an unforgettable and dynamic experience for travelers seeking a rich blend of culture and scenic wonder.
Despite its stunning vistas and rich cultural traditions, Rio de Janeiro has unfortunately gained a reputation for its relatively high levels of street crime. Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas, public transportation, and tourist hotspots, making it important for travelers to be vigilant about their belongings. Theft of personal items, such as bags, phones, and cameras, is also a concern, particularly in less crowded or poorly lit areas. While most areas of the city are generally safe for tourists, there are certain neighborhoods with higher crime rates where solo travelers should exercise caution.
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea provides a unique travel experience with diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
However, Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, can be somewhat dangerous for solo travelers due to high crime rates, including violence, armed robbery, and carjacking. Urban poverty, limited law enforcement, ethnic tensions, and inadequate infrastructure contribute to the city’s dicey reputation. Solo travelers might face risks from isolated incidents and gender-based violence. Lack of basic services and emergency facilities adds to concerns. Caution, thorough research, and adherence to local advice are essential for safety. Be sure to consult travel advisories from official sources, and avoid nighttime and poorly lit areas.
Guatemala City, Guatemala
Guatemala is full of captivating attractions: rich Mayan heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Ancient ruins like Tikal and natural wonders like Lake Atitlán draw visitors. Colonial cities like Antigua showcase history, architecture, and local traditions. The warmth of the local people and their indigenous cultures provide immersive experiences.
However, the country’s capital, Guatemala City, may not be ideal for solo travelers due to high crime rates, gang activity, poverty, and a lack of effective policing. Tourists, especially solo travelers, can be vulnerable to theft, robbery, and even violent crime. Political unrest and inadequate infrastructure further contribute to safety concerns. However, it’s important to note that these challenges are specific to Guatemala City and not necessarily reflective of the entire country.
While caution is vital in Guatemala City, exploring the country’s diverse regions can reward travelers with unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking scenery and a deep cultural tapestry. To maximize safety, staying updated on official travel advisories, engaging local guides, and being mindful of surroundings are recommended when visiting both the city and the country.
C
San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, can be less than ideal for solo travelers due to several factors. High crime rates and a history of gang-related violence contribute to safety concerns, making it important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Instances of petty theft, robbery, and even more serious crimes have been reported, which can make solo exploration daunting.
c
However, despite these challenges, El Salvador as a whole offers unique attractions and experiences that make it worth considering for travelers. The country boasts stunning Pacific coastline with beautiful beaches, excellent surfing opportunities, and lush landscapes. The Ruta de las Flores showcases picturesque towns, coffee plantations, and vibrant markets. Visitors can explore the impressive Mayan ruins of Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage site, providing insight into ancient history. El Salvador’s cuisine, infused with indigenous and Spanish influences, offers flavorful dishes that shouldn’t be missed.
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis features many attractions that make it a rewarding destination. There’s the iconic Gateway Arch, of course. The City Museum and Missouri History Museum showcase the city’s rich history, and St. Louis enjoys a vibrant cultural scene. The city’s culinary diversity, with renowned barbecue and local eateries, adds to its charm. Exploring dynamic neighborhoods like the Central West End and Soulard can provide an authentic and enjoyable experience.
However, solo travelers should exercise caution in St. Louis and avoid certain neighborhoods with higher crime rates, such as the northern and eastern parts of the city. It’s advisable to research and avoid these areas, stay vigilant at night, and use reliable transportation options. While remaining cautious, solo travelers can still relish St. Louis’ blend of history, culture, and distinctive attractions.
Think we missed a city that people should never visit solo? Let us know in the comments.
As much as I hate to say this, because I love my home city of San Francisco so much, travelers here should avoid the South of Market area especially if they’re alone. Since 2020, there’s just been a lot more crime in this area. I’ve lived here at 7th and Mission for 13 years, and when I moved here in 2010 from across town, the neighborhood wasn’t half this bad. That said, don’t let this scare you away from San Francisco. It’s not like this everywhere, and it’s still a beautiful and unique city.