10 Adventurous Solo Travel Destinations Around the World, Ranked by Safety

As someone who’s personally packed my bags and explored 65 countries solo, I’ve experienced first-hand celebrating rituals with indigenous tribes, hiking the tallest mountains in the world, and motorbiking until my hands become raw. But let’s be honest, not all destinations are created equal when it comes to safety and opportunities for adrenaline-pumping activities.

According to the Global Peace Index of 2023, countries like Iceland, New Zealand, and Japan rank among the top 10 most peaceful nations on Earth. With their low crime rates and lack of large-scale conflicts, these countries are a safe haven for travelers. 

Peace doesn’t mean boring, far from it. These countries have some of the world’s most exciting adventures, from wild mountain treks in New Zealand to watching the northern lights in Iceland.

On the flip side, having been to countries like Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, and Bolivia, I can attest that while they fall into the medium-risk category, the unique experiences they offer make the risk worthwhile.

If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, well, you’re in luck. Here’s a list of 10 countries that tick both boxes, a mix of safety and excitement for all the adventurous solo travelers out there. 

1. Iceland

Safety Index Country Ranking: #1 out of 163 

Ranked as the safest country in the world, Iceland is a land of Martian landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and otherworldly hot springs. Every few miles we drove while car camping, I yelled to stop to step out and take more pictures.

Between the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, Iceland is a Nordic island country on the constantly active geologic border between North America and Europe. 

With endless opportunities for hiking, glacier climbing, and volcanic lava flow watching, Iceland is a bucket list destination for thrill seekers. And with the country’s high level of safety, solo travelers can freely explore the vast and remote landscapes without worry.

Most people get around by renting a car, but plenty of people just hitchhike around and camp out in the open. 

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Ice Cave Excursion, Northern Lights Watching, Geothermal Hot Spring soaking, Drive the Ring Road 
• Best Time to Visit: June through August for mild weather and long days; September through March for Northern Lights viewing.

2. New Zealand

Safety Index Country Ranking: #4 out of 163 

The land of the long white cloud is famous for its natural beauty and heart-pumping activities. From bungee jumping to whitewater rafting, skydiving to heli-skiing, New Zealand has no shortage of fun activities.

Located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is a remote island nation packed with snowcapped mountains, primeval forests, and sandy beaches. 

With its low crime rates, welcoming locals, and well-established tourism industry, New Zealand is an ideal destination for solo travelers. Plus, with backpacker hostels and organized tours, it’s easy to meet other like-minded travelers along the way.

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Cruise the Milford Sound, Bungee Jumping off Nevis Bungy, Glow Worms in Waitomo Cave, Whitewater Rafting in Kaituna
• Best Time to Visit: Late December through February for warm weather; June through August for skiing and snowboarding.

3. Japan

Safety Index Country Ranking: #9 out of 163 

Japan might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about adventure travel, but it’s a hidden gem for adrenaline junkies, especially Hokkaido. From skiing to surfing, hiking to Buddhist mummies, and epic urbexing, Japan has urban bucket list activities in Tokyo and outdoor fun in the countryside.

Off the mainland coast of Asia, Japan is an island country that blends ancient traditions and modern technology.

As someone who lived there for three months, its efficient public transportation system makes it safe and easy to navigate around Japan. Plus, with its cultural experiences like tea ceremonies and watch sumo matches, you’ll learn about the unique local mannerisms.

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Skiing in Niseko, Summit Mount Fuji, White Water Rafting in Hokkaido, Biking the Shimanami Kaido, Visiting the Fukushima Nuclear Meltdown Zone
• Best Time to Visit: March through May for cherry blossom season

4. Norway

Safety Index Country Ranking: #24 out of 163 

Norway is not for the faint-hearted, with freezing weather, a tough landscape, and being one of the most expensive countries in the world. But it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream! You can go dog sledding, ice climbing, hiking, or sail the fjords.

In Northern Europe, Norway is famous for its northern lights, scenic fjord cruises, and indigenous Sami culture. Traveling there is safe and easy, with a super low crime rate and top-notch infrastructure.

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Dog sledding in Tromso, Hiking Trolltunga, Ice climbing in Rjukan, Skiing in Lofoten, Fjord Cruises, Northern Lights Chasing
• Best Time to Visit: June through August for mild weather; January through March for northern lights viewing

5. Costa Rica

Safety Index Country Ranking: #39 out of 163 

Costa Rica is actually the first place I ever traveled to internationally (besides my heritage country of China). It was also my first solo travel destination, where I spent a whole month learning Spanish and surfing every day.

Known for its eco-tourism and biodiversity, it’s just an all-around nature paradise. It’s got dense rainforests, active volcanoes, and endless long stretches of beaches.

Even though Central America is not known for its safety, Costa Rica has a lower crime rate compared to other countries in the region. Plus, with its Pura Vida mantra, friendly locals, and well-developed tourism industry, the overall vibe is very welcoming.

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Hiking Arenal Volcano, Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River, Watch Turtles Nest in Tortuguero, Surfing in Jaco, Ziplining in Monteverde
• Best Time to Visit: December through April for dry season

6. Vietnam

Safety Index Country Ranking: #41 out of 163 

You’ll get a different side of Vietnam in every region you go. The north is filled with towering limestone mountains, the central has the largest cave in the world, and the South has pristine white sand beaches.

Many people rent a motorbike for the month and drive the length of Vietnam, or I did a two-week trip in just northern Vietnam. You’ll be shocked by the chaotic traffic, hidden ethnic villages, and horizons of golden rice terraces.

A country in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is one of the most affordable destinations for budget travelers who crave adventure. With its rapidly growing tourism industry, it’s become ever more popular through the years.

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Motorbiking the Ha Giang Loop and Hai Van Pass, Trekking through Cao Bang, Visiting Asia’s largest waterfall Ban Gioc, Exploring the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
• Best Time to Visit: December through April for the dry season

7. Indonesia

Safety Index Country Ranking: #53 out of 163 

Indonesia is a large archipelago with over 17,000 islands to explore. From the famous island of Bali to the lesser-visited Flores, Indonesia is just one giant list of magnificent waterfalls, pink beaches, and unforgettable animal encounters.

Being on the ring of fire, each island offers a one-of-a-kind sunrise summit hike, ranging from challenging treks to fun 4×4 jeep tours. Indonesia has some of the best diving in the world, with opportunities to swim with whale sharks, mantas, sharks, and the elusive sunfish.

Plus, every island has its own traditions, from the deeply rooted Bali religion to the funeral practices of tribes in Sulawesi who keep their dead mummified in their houses for years.

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Sunrise hiking volcanos (Mount Rinjani in Lombok, Mount Batur in Bali, Sunrise at Mount Bromo and Ijen in Java), Scuba diving in Raja Ampat, Padar Island in Komodo National Park
• Best Time to Visit: May through September for dry season

8. Bolivia

Safety Index Country Ranking: #78 out of 163 

Bolivia, located in South America, is a lesser-known destination for adventure travel. But it’s definitely not to be overlooked.

Set on high-altitude lands and indigenous cultures, bike ride on the world’s most dangerous road, The Death Road, or take on the challenge of climbing one of the highest peaks in South America, Huayna Potosi.

You can also explore the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, or step into an active mine in Potosi. And if that’s not enough for you, try swimming with pink river dolphins in the Amazon or visiting the reed tribes on Lake Titicaca.

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Get lost in the Amazon Rainforest, Mountain bike down “Death Road,” Summit Mount Huayna Potosi, Tour Salar de Uyuni, See the Strange Landscapes of Toro Toro National Park
• Best Time to Visit: May through October for dry season

9. Nepal

Safety Index Country Ranking: #79 out of 163 

Famous for the highest mountain in the world, Nepal is a dream destination. It’s a place of extremes, from trekking through the Himalayas to safariing in Chitwan National Park to white water rafting the most extreme river rapids in the world. 

Located in South Asia, Nepal has a relatively low crime rate, friendly locals, and is very affordable. With that said, there are scams to watch out for in Thamel and potential risks like altitude sickness and natural disasters.

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Trekking to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna, Taking a Helicopter tour to EBC, Safari in Chitwan National Park, Paragliding in Pokhara, Rafting the Karnali or Trishuli River
• Best Time to Visit: September through November or March through May

10. Kyrgyzstan

Safety Index Country Ranking: #101 out of 163 

Located in Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan may not be on many people’s travel radar, but it’s a hidden gem getting increasingly popular amongst travelers. Kyrgyzstan is still very much like it was in the past, with a nomadic lifestyle subsisting on lamb and sleeping in yurts.

With its preserved nomadic culture and breathtaking mountain landscapes, Kyrgyzstan is perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path. 

• Recommended Adventure Activities: Trekking in the Tian Shan mountains, Horseback riding through Song Kol Lake, Camping in Jeti-Ögüz Canyon, Visiting local yurt camps
• Best Time to Visit: June through September for warm weather and less rain

Final Thoughts: Best Solo Travel Destinations in the World

More and more so, travelers are seeking out experiences, and what better way to live your life than ticking off bucket list activities like hiking the Himalyasa or climbing volcanos?

There are endless possibilities for adventure seekers and solo travelers around the world, and these destinations are some of the safest and most welcoming environments for those traveling alone.