Solo travel destinations are becoming super popular. More and more people are going on trips all by themselves.

Exploring the world alone can be extremely exciting. When you travel alone, you get to do what you want, when you want, without having to follow anyone else’s plans.

Solo travel allows you to be spontaneous and truly immerse yourself in new places. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, builds confidence, and lets you make new friends.

While going it alone was once considered strange, it’s now widely accepted and even encouraged. This is thanks to social media showing inspiring solo adventures, increased travel coverage, more people having disposable income, and changing attitudes.

Of course, solo travel isn’t for everyone. But for those with a taste for adventure and independence, going solo gives you the freedom to explore new destinations and have life-changing experiences.

This article highlights some of the world’s most epic spots that are perfect for solo travellers looking to challenge themselves and create unforgettable memories.

1. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park, situated in northwest Montana, is a must-see for solo travellers seeking immersion in breathtaking alpine scenery and untamed landscapes.

This “Crown of the Continent” preserves more than 1 million acres of forests, alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and over 700 lakes. Solo visitors will find endless opportunities for adventure and solitude in this vast wilderness.

For avid hikers, Glacier offers over 700 miles of scenic trails. It winds past cascading waterfalls, serene mountain lakes, and alpine glaciers. Popular day hikes include the Trail of the Cedars, which showcases ancient cedars, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which boasts panoramic vistas.

For wildlife lovers, Glacier is home to a diversity of species, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, and mountain lions.

After a day of adventure, lodging options in Glacier range from historic chalets and lodges to cosy cabins and campgrounds. Sperry Chalet offers an authentic Glacier experience with rustic yet comfortable accommodations in a remote backcountry setting.

Lake McDonald Lodge is a historic hotel situated right on the shores of Lake McDonald. For a budget stay, tent camping and RV sites are available at campgrounds like Apgar Campground and St. Mary Campground.

2. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, is a stunning destination for solo travellers looking to experience breathtaking mountain scenery and outdoor adventures.

As Canada’s oldest national park, established in 1885, Banff encompasses over 2,500 square miles of wilderness, including glacial mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and lush valleys.

One of the best ways to take in the incredible views is by hiking on your own. Trails range from easy walks around scenic lakes like Lake Minnewanka to challenging, full-day summit hikes like Ha Ling Peak.

You’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife like elk, bears, and bighorn sheep along many trails. Other outdoor activities perfect for solo travellers include mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, paddling, and skiing or snowboarding in the winter.

The charming mountain town of Banff serves as the gateway to the national park and offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife options. Staying in town allows you to mingle with fellow travellers and enjoy creature comforts after a day of exploring nature.

With stunning scenery, endless outdoor adventures, and a lively base camp, Banff National Park is an ideal solo travel destination.

3. Machu Picchu, Peru

With an elevation of nearly 8,000 feet, Machu Picchu is perched high in the Peruvian Andes.

This former Incan city is famous for its charming architecture and intricate stonework. It was built in the 15th century as the estate of an Inca emperor but was abandoned when the Spanish conquered the empire less than 100 years later.

Navigating the labyrinth of houses, temples, and plazas, it’s remarkable to imagine what life was like centuries ago.

One of the highlights of visiting Machu Picchu is hiking the steep stone stairs up Huayna Picchu. This peak towers above the citadel, offering incredible views overlooking the ruins and surrounding landscape. The hike takes about 1-2 hours roundtrip and is an unforgettable way to experience the site’s breathtaking vistas.

With each step, it’s humbling to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas who once lived and worked in this majestic place.

4. Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

With its mile-wide span and 354-foot drop, Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most magnificent waterfalls.

The falls straddle the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe along the Zambezi River. The massive cascade and surrounding mist will take your breath away. You can view the falls from many different viewpoints on either side of the border. 

On the Zimbabwe side, also explore the rainforest around the falls, where trails offer changing perspectives of the waterfall.

The town of Victoria Falls is a great base from which to explore. Take hiking and walking tours or go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River below the falls. You can even opt for a swim at the edge of the waterfall. No matter how you choose to experience Victoria Falls, its sheer power and natural wonder make it a highlight for any solo traveller.

5. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a rugged stretch of coast on the Italian Riviera famous for its picturesque villages and scenic hiking trails.

Translating to “Five Lands“, Cinque Terre comprises five villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

The pastel-coloured villages, clinging to steep terraces overlooking the sea, are a beautiful sight. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture, and soak in the relaxed way of life.

For the best views, walk along the cliffside trails that connect the villages. The walks aren’t too strenuous and offer breathtaking vistas of the rugged coastline dotted with vineyards and olive groves.

Make sure to sample Liguria’s delicious seafood during your stay. Anchovies are a speciality of the region and are served in a variety of ways. Try the focaccia di Recco, a thin flatbread filled with cheese and anchovy paste that is baked until crispy.

The pesto, made with locally grown basil and fresh pasta, is also a highlight of Cinque Terre cuisine. End your meals with a glass of white wine like Cinque Terre DOC or Sciacchetrà, a prized dessert wine.

With its picturesque seaside villages, scenic coastal trails, and delightful cuisine, Cinque Terre is a must for solo travellers looking to immerse themselves in the charm of an Italian seaside escape.

6. Snorkel and Dive the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef off the northeast coast of Australia is the world’s largest coral reef system. Stretching for over 1,400 miles, this underwater paradise is home to a stunning diversity of marine life.

For solo travellers, a visit to the Great Barrier Reef offers the chance to snorkel, and scuba dive through this aquatic wonderland.

The city of Cairns is the gateway for accessing the northern section of the reef. From Cairns, you can take a day trip by boat or seaplane to reef sites like Flynn Reef and Michaelmas Cay.

These spots offer incredible snorkelling and diving along the outer reef. Drift along in the current and discover vibrant corals, sea turtles, manta rays, clownfish, and more.

For multi-day trips, consider staying at a floating hotel like Reefsleep so you can fully immerse yourself on the reef.

The Whitsunday Islands farther south also provide access to the Great Barrier Reef, where snorkelling and diving can be done directly from the shores of islands like Hayman and Hook.

Solo travellers can island hop by ferry or book a sailing cruise to experience the diversity of reef ecosystems in this region up close. With excellent underwater visibility and relatively warm water temperatures year-round, the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket list locale for any solo traveller wanting to dive into nature.

7. Iceland

Iceland is a Nordic island nation defined by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields.

One of the most iconic natural sights is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by lava fields. The warm, mineral-rich waters are strikingly milky blue. Soaking in the steamy waters with the surrounding black lava rock is an unforgettable experience.

The capital city of Reykjavik offers a cosmopolitan contrast to Iceland’s natural wonders. It’s home to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, cool art museums and a flourishing cafe culture. At night, locals and tourists alike enjoy the city’s thriving nightlife and music scene.

Exploring the city on foot provides an up-close look at the colourful corrugated tin houses and street art murals.

Whether bathing in geothermal pools or wandering the streets of Reykjavik, Iceland offers one-of-a-kind adventures for solo travellers eager to experience its natural beauty and culture.

8. New Zealand

New Zealand is a haven for solo travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its staggering natural landscapes, adrenaline-pumping activities, and friendly culture, New Zealand offers an unforgettable experience for the intrepid loner.

Start your solo New Zealand adventure in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. Try bungee jumping, jet boating, or canyon swinging to get your heart racing.

The scenery surrounding Queenstown is breathtaking, with mountain vistas and crystal blue lakes. Rent a car and drive through the countryside at your own pace, stopping to hike and explore as you please.

The North Island has just as much natural beauty, including Tongariro National Park with its volcanic peaks and the Waitomo Caves illuminated by glowworms.

New Zealanders, known as Kiwis, are extremely welcoming and you’ll have no trouble meeting fellow backpackers in youth hostels along the way.

Travelling alone gives you the freedom to wander off the beaten path and discover hidden gems on your own terms.

The Bottom Line

Solo travel to epic destinations around the world can be an incredibly rewarding experience. This article explored some of the top locations that are ideal for solo travellers looking for adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion.

Key highlights include the stunning glacier scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities in Glacier National Park and Banff National Park. Ancient sites like Machu Picchu provide an awe-inspiring look into history that is perfect to discover alone.

Epic natural wonders like Victoria Falls and the Great Barrier Reef showcase the power of nature and allow for introspective reflection. The charming villages of Cinque Terre and the Nordic countryside of Iceland offer the chance to meet friendly locals and find inner calm. And the natural diversity found across New Zealand provides endless inspiration.

While solo travel comes with logistical challenges, the chance to fully immerse yourself in these destinations and forge your own journey is unmatched. Travelling alone allows you to reflect, gain true independence, and form unbreakable bonds with the places you visit.

Solo travel to amazing destinations can provide life-changing personal experiences. With careful planning and an adventurous mindset, you can find iconic locations ideally suited for your next major journey.

The rewards of such a solo trip can last a lifetime.