Why Iceland is an Excellent Solo-Female Travel Destination

Iceland quietly boasts a must-visit intrigue. It’s also a destination easy to travel to— as close to New York City as San Francisco is to Hawaii.

As one of the largest islands in the North Atlantic, Iceland has a population of only 320,000, two-thirds of which live in the capital of Reykjavik.  Reykjavik is the northernmost and westernmost capital in the world, with museums and bars, restaurants, and shops, all within walkable distance.  The streets are lined with brightly colored buildings that help to offset the often drab skiesIceland also claims to be one of the most active volcanic countries in the world, where one is able to find almost all types of volcanoes.  It’s a place for outdoor junkies, adventure seekers, music lovers, and beauty admirers.  The land and people are stunning; the landscape holds an unapproachable and raw appeal, while Icelanders a perfect juxtaposition, friendly and inviting.

I’m unsure when I said, “I want to go to Iceland.”  It’s not that I didn’t want to see the country, I just hadn’t thought about it, not until a delay one day, when I spent the six hours “studying geography,” seeing where I could go and how much it would cost. I learned that Icelandair offered direct flights from multiple cities in the United States, and the flight from New York City was a short 5.25 minutes.  It only seemed natural that I should go after learning this news, and the fact that those around me kept mentioning the destination was all of the confirmation I needed.

With five days off, I had plenty of time to fly from Seattle to Reykjavik and explore the city and the surrounding area.  I took recommendations from an Icelandic friend of what to do and where to go, browsed the many sightseeing and adventure tours available, picking a select few, and had the fun experience of riding on the back of a motorcycle past impressive landscapes to see a place named something in Icelandic that I don’t know what, but supposedly translates to Paradise Garden.

At a loss to pronounce any Icelandic word or name, as the language is difficult, I was thankful for the direct FlyBus from the Keflavik Airport to the city, and the curbside pick-up for the tours that I booked, making this one of the simplest trips, navigationally, that I have ever taken.

Iceland is not only stunningly beautiful but is also considered one of the safest countries in the world.

This makes Iceland an excellent choice for solo female travelers. Here’s why:

1. Safety: Iceland consistently ranks among the safest countries globally. Low crime rates and an extremely friendly population mean that you can explore with peace of mind.

2. Ease of Navigation: Despite its rugged landscapes, Iceland is relatively easy to navigate. The roads are well-maintained, and the signs are clear. Many tour operators offer guided tours if you prefer not to navigate alone.

3. Friendly and English-Speaking Locals: Icelanders are known for their kindness and hospitality. As English is commonly spoken, you’ll rarely face language barriers.

4. Empowering Environment: Iceland has a strong record of gender equality, making it an empowering environment for female travelers. As a solo female traveler, you’ll feel welcomed and respected.

5. Women-Friendly Activities: From wellness retreats at geothermal spas to shopping local Icelandic designs, or joining a knitting tour – there’s an abundance of activities catering to a wide variety of interests.

6. Solo-Traveler Friendly Accommodations: There are various accommodation options catering to solo travelers. From female-only dorms in hostels, cozy guesthouses, or boutique hotels, you’ll find a place that fits your comfort and budget.

Remember, solo travel can be a rewarding experience, especially in a country as welcoming as Iceland. It allows you to move at your own pace, meet new people, and perhaps even discover a bit about yourself along the way.

Conclusion

From its majestic landscapes to its rich culture and history, it’s no wonder that Iceland has captured the hearts of so many travelers. It truly is a must-visit destination – a place where each corner holds a new adventure, a new story, and a new discovery. We hope this blog inspires you to embark on your own Icelandic journey. Feel free to share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!