Top 10 Itineraries for Solo Travel for 2022-2023

Leaving from Ushuaia, Argentina, this 10-day small ship expedition cruise of Antarctica is an excellent value and takes you through the Beagle Channel and across the mythical waters of the Drake Passage. These cruises are at the beginning and end of the season, are economically priced, and recommended for travelers on a budget.

Patagonia Wildlife Safari

5-7 Days from $1,623

On this tour of Chile's Southern Patagonia region experience penguins, guanacos, Darwin's Rheas, Andean foxes, and more as you hike or even bike Torres del Paine. Optional excursion available to explore the Straits of Magellan to Magdalena Island, where you can see over 100,000 Magellanic penguins!

Classic W Trek

Torres del Paine Trek
8 Days from $1,604

Experience the world's ultimate hiking adventure trekking the W Trek in Torres del Paine, Chile. 6 of the 8 days are spent trekking the Paso Los Cuernos trail towards Refugio Los Cuernos and down into the French Valley. Experience panoramic views of Grey Glacier, witness the gigantic spires of El Paine, and enjoy a stay at EcoCamp.

Best of Iceland

8 Days from $2,172

Explore the best of Iceland on this exciting 7-day tour starting and ending in Reykjavik. Beautiful glaciers reach across the landscape as you visit the Golden Circle and drive the Ring Road. This complete Iceland tour features Iceland's most legendary places and experiences.

Sacha Lodge

Ecuadorian Amazon
7 Days from $2,053

Flying from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, board a canoe down the Napo River where we'll have four nights exploring the Amazon rainforest at Sacha Lodge. Luxury accommodations, gourmet cuisine, English-speaking naturalists & indigenous guides revealing monkeys, birds & Amazonian wildlife will make your weeklong trip to Ecuador unforgettable.

Antarctic - Basecamp

12 Days from $9,050

Embark on the MV Plancius for this active small ship cruise of Antarctica. Anchor at stunning spots to maximize time exploring Antarctica by foot, zodiac, sea kayak, camp and possibly even SCUBA dive on this 12-day expedition cruise to the Antarctic. Hike near the shore or trek to hilltops for panoramic views and views of Adelie and gentoo penguins.

Discover Iceland

8 Days from $1,895

Explore the best of Iceland on this 8-day tour, covering Reykjavik and the highlights along the famed Ring Road. Visit the Golden Triangle, witness awe-inspiring waterfalls and learn about Iceland's cultural heritage in remote villages.

Enjoy seeing the beauty of these islands on an exciting kayak trip.

Galapagos Multisport

Hotel-Based Tour
8 Days from $6,457

Begin your Galapagos travels hiking on San Cristobal Island and continue the journey kayaking, snorkeling, biking, and stand up paddle boarding throughout the Galapagos where wildlife awaits at every turn, every trail side, and every shoreline! This 9-day adventurous itinerary offers unforgettable activities to explore these magical islands.

Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia

Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires
23 Days from $30,595

From the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to South Georgia to the Antarctic Peninsula, you will have countless unforgettable moments on this adventure-packed, 23-day voyage aboard the Ultramarine. This epic Antarctica expedition includes all of the major Antarctic highlights you can imagine, full of significant milestones for any world traveler.

Classic Antarctica Air Cruise

8 Days from $13,495

Embark on this 8-day Antarctic adventure with Magellan Explorer Air Cruises. Fly over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas to King George Island where you meet your ship. Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula as you search for wildlife and explore the surrounding landscape before your flight back.

Best Places for Solo Tours and Trips

Dreaming of a solo holiday? It all starts with picking the right destination. The whole world is yours for the taking, but some countries are definitely a little easier to navigate alone than others. Check out some of our experts’ picks of awesome destinations for solo travel.

Iceland (Best Solo Travel Destination for Your Bucket List)
This remote island in the North Atlantic is an outdoor paradise, with glorious waterfalls, craggy cliffs, steaming geysers, and enormous glaciers. A northern lights tour in Iceland is a staple on many travelers’ ultimate bucket list. Plus, the country is one of the safest countries in the world with extremely low crime rates, so it’s an excellent choice for even the wariest solo explorer.

Chile (Best Solo Travel Destination for a Mix of Nature & Culture)
Chile is a long and skinny country known for stunning natural diversity. It’s home to pristine beaches, towering mountain ranges, rolling vineyards, and the remote Atacama Desert. Solo adventurers seeking the great outdoors will fall in love with Patagonia, a region of unspoiled wilderness straddling Chile and Argentina. For a taste of city comforts, head to Santiago, where you can enjoy vibrant dining spots, boutique shops, museums, and art galleries.

United States (Best Solo Travel Destination for Long Vacations)
There are tons to explore in the United States, so boredom is almost impossible, even for globetrotters visiting their country on their own. Whether you want to bask in the energy of big cities like New York and L.A. or you prefer exploring the great wild national parks across the country, you’ll never run out of places to see in the United States.

Greece (Best Solo Destination for Island Hopping)
Ancient, beautiful, and vibrant, the Greek Islands is a destination that has enchanted many a traveler. And it’s easy to see why—white-sand islands dot the impossibly blue Aegean Sea, age-old ruins lie under clear open skies, and idyllic villages seem to be on every corner. Plus, the friendly locals make everyone feel right at home, making Greece very popular among people traveling alone.

Southeast Asia (Best Solo Destination for Backpackers)
Of course, backpacking Southeast Asia is practically a rite of passage for solo travelers. Not only is it an affordable loop to explore, but the tropical region is rich with vibrant cultures, exotic wildlife, glorious natural landscapes, and delicious food. As a popular destination among single backpackers, there’s a good chance you’ll make a friend along the way, whether you’re visiting the idyllic beaches of Thailand or the dramatic mountains of Bhutan.

10 Great Deals for Solo Travel for 2022-2023

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Antarctic Small Ship Expedition	$5495	10	Nov 11, 2022	Leaving from Ushuaia, Argentina, this 10-day small ship expedition cruise of Antarctica is an excellent value and takes you through the Beagle … 0
Patagonia Wildlife Safari	$1623	5-7	Sep 1, 2022	On this tour of Chile's Southern Patagonia region experience penguins, guanacos, Darwin's Rheas, Andean foxes, and more as you hike or even bike … 0
Classic W Trek	$1604	8	Oct 2, 2022	Experience the world's ultimate hiking adventure trekking the W Trek in Torres del Paine, Chile. 6 of the 8 days are spent trekking the Paso Los … 0
Best of Iceland	$2172	8	Jun 1, 2022	Explore the best of Iceland on this exciting 7-day tour starting and ending in Reykjavik. Beautiful glaciers reach across the landscape as you visit … 0
Sacha Lodge	$2054	7	May 19, 2022	Flying from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, board a canoe down the Napo River where we'll have four nights exploring the Amazon rainforest at … 0
Antarctic - Basecamp	$9050	12	Jan 3, 2023	Embark on the MV Plancius for this active small ship cruise of Antarctica. Anchor at stunning spots to maximize time exploring Antarctica by foot, … 0
Discover Iceland	$1896	8	Jun 1, 2022	Explore the best of Iceland on this 8-day tour, covering Reykjavik and the highlights along the famed Ring Road. Visit the Golden Triangle, witness … 0
Galapagos Multisport	$6457	8	May 19, 2022	Begin your Galapagos travels hiking on San Cristobal Island and continue the journey kayaking, snorkeling, biking, and stand up paddle boarding … 0
Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia	$30595	23	Jan 29, 2023	From the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to South Georgia to the Antarctic Peninsula, you will have countless unforgettable moments on this … 0
Classic Antarctica Air Cruise	$13495	8	Dec 1, 2022	Embark on this 8-day Antarctic adventure with Magellan Explorer Air Cruises. Fly over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas to King George Island where … 0

10 Best Cruises for Solo Travelers for 2022-2023

Antarctic Small Ship Expedition

10 Days from $5,495

Antarctic - Basecamp

12 Days from $9,050

Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia

Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires
23 Days from $30,595

Classic Antarctica Air Cruise

8 Days from $13,495

Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent

11 Days from $10,795

On this 11-day adventure to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula you'll cruise through sea ice, witness penguins building their nests, kayak along icebergs, and experience exhilarating encounters with abundant wildlife including penguins, seals and whales.

Hiking in Antarctica is rewarded with spectacular views

Antarctic Small Ship Expedition

Port of Ushuaia to Port of Ushuaia
11 Days from $6,595

Embark on this 11-day Antarctic cruise aboard Magellan Explorer. Sail the Beagle Channel from Ushuaia and across the infamous Drake Passage to the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula where you will search for wildlife and explore the surrounding landscape. This departure is of excellent value and is an Adventure Life exclusive package.

Galapagos Southeast Islands

5 Days from $2,310

This affordable 5-day Galapagos cruise aboard the Coral I or II explores the southeastern and central islands of the Galapagos including San Cristobal, Española, Floreana & Santa Cruz. Encounter fearless wildlife like giant tortoises and marine iguanas, and snorkel in the crystalline Galapagos waters viewing colorful fish, sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

Southeast Islands

5 Days from $2,455

Explore the south-eastern islands of San Cristobal, Española, Floreana, and Santa Cruz on this unforgettable 5-day cruise aboard the 100-guest Galapagos Legend small cruise ship.

Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent

11 Days from $9,695

This exciting Antarctic cruise crosses the famed Drake Passage, explores the wildlife-rich shores of the South Shetland Islands, and makes numerous stops along the Antarctic Peninsula. Join us on a trip of a lifetime aboard the Ocean Adventurer (formerly Sea Adventurer).

Classical Greece

8 Days from $2,990

This 8-day cruise of Greece from the Harmony V takes you round-trip from historic Athens to Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Nafplion, where you see the archaeological treasures of these port towns while enjoying a relaxing cruise of turquoise Mediterranean waters that balances small ship sailing with luxury yachting.

10 Best Active Itineraries for Solo Travelers for 2022-2023

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Antarctic Small Ship Expedition	$5495	10	Nov 11, 2022	Leaving from Ushuaia, Argentina, this 10-day small ship expedition cruise of Antarctica is an excellent value and takes you through the Beagle … 0
Patagonia Wildlife Safari	$1623	5-7	Sep 1, 2022	On this tour of Chile's Southern Patagonia region experience penguins, guanacos, Darwin's Rheas, Andean foxes, and more as you hike or even bike … 0
Classic W Trek	$1604	8	Oct 2, 2022	Experience the world's ultimate hiking adventure trekking the W Trek in Torres del Paine, Chile. 6 of the 8 days are spent trekking the Paso Los … 0
Best of Iceland	$2172	8	Jun 1, 2022	Explore the best of Iceland on this exciting 7-day tour starting and ending in Reykjavik. Beautiful glaciers reach across the landscape as you visit … 0
Sacha Lodge	$2054	7	May 19, 2022	Flying from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, board a canoe down the Napo River where we'll have four nights exploring the Amazon rainforest at … 0
Antarctic - Basecamp	$9050	12	Jan 3, 2023	Embark on the MV Plancius for this active small ship cruise of Antarctica. Anchor at stunning spots to maximize time exploring Antarctica by foot, … 0
Discover Iceland	$1896	8	Jun 1, 2022	Explore the best of Iceland on this 8-day tour, covering Reykjavik and the highlights along the famed Ring Road. Visit the Golden Triangle, witness … 0
Galapagos Multisport	$6457	8	May 19, 2022	Begin your Galapagos travels hiking on San Cristobal Island and continue the journey kayaking, snorkeling, biking, and stand up paddle boarding … 0
Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia	$30595	23	Jan 29, 2023	From the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to South Georgia to the Antarctic Peninsula, you will have countless unforgettable moments on this … 0
Classic Antarctica Air Cruise	$13495	8	Dec 1, 2022	Embark on this 8-day Antarctic adventure with Magellan Explorer Air Cruises. Fly over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas to King George Island where … 0

Guide for Solo Travelers

What to expect on a Solo Travel experience with Adventure Life
You're never alone on the road, even when you're traveling by yourself — at least with Adventure Life! Our goal is to make sure that your solo travel experience is one in which you will enjoy the company of your fellow travelers, with plenty of social opportunities and group activities like snorkeling, hiking, city tours, archaeological visits, and all of the classic itinerary activities.

Of course, we understand that many solo travelers are hoping for privacy and solitude, as well. Thus, we have done our best to procure a selection of tours that allows for a higher level of privacy for travelers. We also know that many solo travelers are wary of the dreaded single-supplement fee, so we are here to make sure that you are getting the best possible price for your itinerary without worrying about getting nickel-and-dimed at every corner.

Explore the lush rainforests of Madagascar

How to be a Responsible Traveler

Why Travel Solo?

1. You’re free to do what you want to do.
Compromise is part of traveling with family or friends, but on your own, you’re completely free to fully indulge in your whims. Perhaps you want to skip the museums in favor of the beach. Or you’d rather spend more time in one city instead of another. If you’re on a solo trip, you don’t have to consider anyone’s itinerary except your own.
2. You’ll meet more people.
Part of the allure of exploring the world is meeting all sorts of characters on the road. But if you’re traveling with a group, you tend to stick with the people you know. You tend to be more approachable alone, and you’re also more likely to reach out to locals and fellow travelers.
3. You can self-reflect and connect with yourself.
Sometimes, the only way to learn more about yourself is to step away from family and friends who expect you to be a certain way. Traveling solo allows you to listen to your own heart and discover who you are without conforming to expectations. It also exposes you to new experiences; without anyone else to rely on, you can grow, expand, and discover what you’re capable of on your own.
4. You get to enjoy the destination without distractions.
Traveling with family and friends means it’s easy to fall into the habits and routines of home. When you’re traveling solo, you can be completely immersed in everything local—food, music, activities, and even company. You’re even pushed to learn new languages to communicate with the locals.
5. You become more confident and capable.
Exploring unknown places alone will throw you into new, challenging, and unexpected situations. Yes, stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary. But obstacles that push you to your limits will ultimately make you realize how strong and capable you are as an individual. Solo travel isn’t easy, but the sense of achievement that comes from solving problems, making decisions, and finding your way on your own is a confidence booster like no other.

Tips for Solo Travel

1. Research your destination thoroughly.
For surviving solo travel, your greatest weapon is preparation. It’s not just about knowing the famous attractions but also researching neighborhoods, public transport, local customs, dress codes, tour prices, contact numbers of local services, embassy information, and the like. If you can, brush up on basic phrases in the local language.
2. Pack light.
Don’t make traveling any harder than it has to be. Bring only the essentials. That way, you can be quick, efficient, and flexible on the go.
3. Join group tours.
If you’re unsure where to meet new people, a group tour is the way to go. Nothing breaks the ice better than exploring a new spot together! Plus, it’s a good way to break the monotony of solo travel before retreating to your room to rest and recharge.
4. Be an early bird.
Even in popular destinations, mornings tend to be less crowded outside. Getting up and sightseeing early gives you the chance to see famous attractions without jostling for space.
5. Carry identification.
Make sure you make multiple copies of your passport, credit cards, and IDs. Bring the important ones while sightseeing, but keep extra copies in different places as a precaution. A list of emergency contact information and the business card of your accommodations are also essential.
6. Follow safety precautions.
It’s better to be safe than sorry—this is never truer than when traveling solo. Leave a copy of your itinerary with family and friends back home. Touch base with them regularly via text, email, or social media. Avoid flashy clothing and jewelry or going somewhere alone with a complete stranger. At night, stick to public areas that are well-lit and open. Ultimately, learn to trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, step away, go to a public space, and reassess.
7. Enjoy while it lasts.
You won’t always be alone, so make the experience count. Solo travel has its ups and downs, but embrace the spontaneity, the freedom, and the pleasure of your own company.

Wear your Adventure Life hats proudly during your Peru travels

Cross Cultural Advice

Each culture has an array of idioms, non-verbal communication signals, and unspoken cultural norms. Here, we share advice on navigating the unique cultures you may encounter on the road.

Adventure Lifer on Perito Moreno Glacier

Packing Essentials

Adventure Life will send a detailed, tour-specific packing list after you book your trip. In the meantime, below are a few travel essentials to get you started. In general, less is more.

Tips on Capturing Your Travels

Get some helpful advice and tips on how to best capture your travels - wildlife, landscape, people and more -- on film.

For Female Solo Travelers

Always lock your doors. No matter how safe you feel in your hotel or cabin, it’s always best to safeguard against danger, especially when you’re asleep.

Dress not to impress but to blend in. Staying low-key and blending in with the locals is an effective strategy to avoid unwanted attention. And dressing appropriately is a must to respect the local culture and traditions, anyway.

Know when to keep information to yourself—or lie. Making friends is well and good, but keep caution a top priority. Don’t tell people where you’re staying in town. If a stranger asks if you are alone, sometimes it’s best to say that you have plans to meet a friend or family member.

Travel during the day. If you have a long commute ahead of you, arrange it so that you arrive while the sun is still out. During the daytime, not only is it brighter and easier to keep track of where you are but there are also more people around to make you feel more at ease.

Choose destinations wisely; some countries are easier for solo women to navigate on their own than others. For instance, Iceland is renowned for its low crime rates. Canada, Finland, and New Zealand are also known for being among the safest countries in the world to travel in, including for female travelers. Contact our travel experts for additional recommendations.