A recent study has revealed the world’s most perilous destinations for solo travellers, highlighting concerns related to safety, healthcare access, and infrastructure. The research, conducted by travel insurance provider SquareMouth, evaluated 113 countries, taking into account factors such as ease of obtaining reliable medical care, local peace indices, public sentiment, and internet accessibility.
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Topping the list as the riskiest destination is Venezuela, which scored an alarming 9.74 out of 10 on the risk index. The study noted that fewer than 10% of the population reported feeling secure while walking alone at night, with significant apprehension surrounding violent crime. Compounding these concerns are the country’s systemic healthcare shortcomings and infrastructure limitations, which contribute to its high-risk status.
The US State Department currently issues a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Venezuela. This classification indicates a heightened risk of wrongful detention, torture, terrorism, and civil unrest, along with a poor health infrastructure. The ongoing political turmoil, illustrated by the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January, adds further uncertainty and danger to the region.
Following Venezuela, Peru ranks as the second most hazardous country for solo travellers, scoring 8.87 on the risk index. The report highlighted that fewer than 25% of Peruvians feel safe walking alone at night, with almost 60% expressing concern about potential attacks. Additionally, the country suffers from low mobile internet speeds, hindering the ability to reach out to family or access online assistance in emergencies. Despite these risks, the US State Department has classified Peru as only a Level 2 travel advisory, recommending visitors to “exercise increased caution.”
In third place is Gabon, situated on the Atlantic coast of Central Africa. Gabon scored 8.51 on the risk index predominantly due to its poor healthcare services, noted for having an average of only two hospital beds per 1,000 people. This figure underscores the challenges travellers may face should they require medical attention during their visit.
Completing the top ten most dangerous destinations for solo travellers are Colombia, Bolivia, Jamaica, Guyana, Ecuador, Trinidad and Tobago, and South Africa. Each of these nations displayed varying levels of risk attributable to crime, healthcare access, and overall stability, making them less than ideal for individuals travelling alone.
On a more positive note, the report also identified the safest locations for solo travellers, with San Marino emerging as the lowest-risk destination, scoring just 0.78 on the risk index. An impressive 90% of residents reported feeling secure walking alone at night, highlighting the country’s tranquillity and low crime rates.
Andorra claimed the second spot for safe travel with a risk score of 1.33, followed closely by Singapore at 1.56. Other nations within the top ten safest destinations included Austria, the Czech Republic, Qatar, Estonia, Brunei, Denmark, and Slovenia—all of which exhibit reassuring safety records.
For context, the United States itself scored 6.02 on the risk index, placing it as the 37th riskiest country on the list. Meanwhile, Mexico, a favourite international getaway for many American tourists, ranked 16th with a score of 7.82, highlighting that popular travel destinations may not always be the safest choices.
As the travel landscape continues to evolve, this study may serve as a critical resource for solo travellers who prioritise safety and security. The findings encourage prudent planning and caution for those venturing abroad, particularly in regions marked by instability or health concerns. Travellers are urged to remain informed about their destinations and consider health and safety factors as part of their travel decision-making process.