Travel for Women

As an increasing number of female backpackers and solo travelers take off for exotic destinations around the world, the trend for 'adventure travel' is becoming more and more popular amongst women. After all, why should boys have all the fun of the outdoors?

Adventure travel can be not only a great way to experience new activities, sports and skills, but also an opportunity to make new friends.

But where to go in a world so full of natural wonders and exciting places?

Here's our top 5 destinations for women adventure travel...

1. Eco-travel in Costa Rica

Thanks to its unique bio-diversity and stunning scenery, Costa Rica is making quite a name for itself on the eco-tourism map. And with more and more backpackers drawn in for this type of trip, there are some excellent facilities and places to stay, along with a budding travel community that's great for solo adventurers.

Best Adventure Activities

Go snorkeling in Cahuita National Park

Canter on horseback along Cocles Beach

Kayak on the lagoons of Tortuguero National Park

Then relax in hot springs!

Where to Stay

There are a number of eco-hostels in Costa Rica, from high spec accommodation that's built in harmony with the natural world to camps and farms offering a unique trekking or community experience.

If you're in La Fortuna, stay safe in a cabin in the peaceful gardens of Cerro Chato Eco Lodge, who work with local conservation projects.

Want to know more about eco-tourism? We've got more information in our Eco-Travel section.

 

2. Whale Watching in South Africa

Every year, the coast of Hermanus in South Africa becomes the home of the Southern Right Whales between June (the peak month) and December. The 12 km stretch of rocky cliffs here have become world-famous for the unique sightings they offer of the whales during their breeding season.

 

 

 

 

 

Best Adventure Activities

Take a boat trip to get closer to the whales (and catch a glimpse of seals and sharks too)

Go diving off Walker Bay

Sample the fresh catch at New Harbor

Enjoy local wine tasting

Where to Stay

Just one street from the beach and the lagoon, Baleens is the perfect cheap stay for women travelers. Book a safe room (including en-suite hot shower) from just €20 a night.

 

3. Trekking in Mongolia

One of the world's last great wildernesses, Mongolia is an adventure travel paradise. The travel odyssey and spirit of adventure is an iconic and integral part of Mongolia's nomadic culture - and the vast, spectacular landscape is a truly unbeatable sight.

 

 

  

 

Best Adventure Activities

Ride amongst the nomads

Make a Bactian camel trek across the Gobi Desert

Live out under the vast skies

Experience the flaming cliffs and ‘Cemetery of Dinosaurs’ in the Gobi Desert

Where to Stay

Anak Ranch offers female backpackers a chance to stay in a traditional Mongolian yurt, the nomad's home. There may not be Internet or TVs here, but home-grown meals, horse riding, hiking, fishing, singing, herding, and even delivering baby animals are all very much a part of the experience.

The location is as unique as the hostel, too - set in the wide-open steppe and taiga, it is a truly unspoiled spot.

 

 

 

4. Hiking in Yellowstone National Park

 

Yellowstone National Park is one of the USA's best known wildlife reserves and an excellent place for adventure travel. With it's diverse ecosystem that spans three states (Montana, Wyoming and Idaho) and rather large residents (expect plenty of bears!), Yellowstone is perfect for lovers of nature and the great outdoors.

 

  

 

Best Adventure Activities

Go whitewater rafting on Gallatin River

Wait for the geysers and other thermal features

Take a park ‘safari’ – and spot bison, elk, moose, wolf and bear...

Camp out in the majestic mountains

Where to Stay

As the park is protected land, you'll have to look for a hostel beyond the gates if you want a bed for the night, but it's easy enough to get yourself in and out during daylight hours (particularly if you have a car). Alternatively, plan your route and find safe campsites for women travelers inside the park with the Yellowstone Trip Planner.

 

5. Adventures in Iceland

Although Iceland was once notoriously expensive, the recent economic downturn has worked in the favor of backpackers from around the world. Experiencing the famous geothermal pools and topography is now very affordable for adventure travelers.

Best Adventure Activities

Soak in the warm mineral waters of the “Blue Lagoon”

Marvel at the Northern Lights

Enjoy a drink under the summer Midnight Sun

Climb a black volcano

Where to Stay

Bed down with other adventurers in the clean, safe Sleeping Bag Accommodation in Akureyi to experience what Iceland has to offer outside the capital city.