Go solo: the 20 best places to travel alone
21.07.2023 - 07:48
/ roughguides.com
Solo travel can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world. Whether you'd rather spend it on a desert island or in a frenetic new city, here's our pick of some of the best places to travel alone.
Not as busy as its more famous neighbour Bali, Lombok is gaining a sterling reputation among the Indonesian islands with independent travellers who want to learn to surf, snorkel or dive. Inland, lush green paddy fields stretch away to the massive Gunung Rinjani volcano with its waterfalls and hot springs. The three tiny but increasingly popular Gili Islands off Lombok’s northwest coast are also easy to access – Trawangan is where the party’s at.
Air Terjun Tiu Kelep waterfall near Rinjani, Senaru, Lombok, Indonesia © Michail_Vorobyev/Shutterstock
The capital of Cuba, Havana conjures images of crumbling colonial architecture, 1950s Chevys, salsa and cigars. However, with the political scene inside Cuba shifting, private enterprise is being encouraged and small businesses across the country are opening and expanding. Now is a great time to visit those tiny back street restaurants and artisan shops.
Homestays have always been a characteristic of travel in Cuba, and this, along with low crime rates, means going it alone is safe and rewarding. Discover here the best time to go to Cuba, the best beaches near Havana and best beaches in Cuba, how to get around the country, and the best places in Cuba for your first-time visit as well as Cuba itineraries for your inspiration.
Havana Capitol in Cuba is a great place to explore travelling solo © Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock
If you’re looking for the best places to travel alone in Central and South America, don’t overlook Guatemala and its ancient Mayan ruins. It is an inexpensive place to travel, which means you can stay for a while – to learn Spanish or even volunteer. Many come here for adventure activities like hiking, kayaking and whitewater rafting.
Exploring the jungle is another great way to see the country. You can also get up close and personal with Central America’s most active volcano – the volcán de Fuego. Haggling for fresh produce in one of the country's colourful markets is an adventure in itself. See here for more things to do in Guatemala, the best time to visit and how to spend your time in Guatemala City.
The jungle at Semuc Champey in Guatemala makes a great place to travel solo — shutterstock
With its incredibly diverse ecosystem and reputation for the “Big Five” (elephant, black rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard), Kenya is the place for a safari. You can easily join a big group or arrange for a guide to take you out into the wilderness alone. The country has a good infrastructure and it’s easy to get around and find accommodation.
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