Black Girl Solo Travel: 7 Places Where You'll Feel Seen, Safe & Celebrated

A black woman in a tan jumpsuit smiles at sunset on a tropical path lined with greenery, with mountains and ocean in the hazy background.

Traveling solo as a Black woman is a revolutionary act of joy, freedom, and self-love. But let’s be real—while wanderlust runs deep, so do the questions that come with it. Will I be safe? Will I be stared at? Will I see people who look like me? These aren’t just travel concerns—they're part of the unique experience of being a Black woman abroad.

This guide is for you, sis—the bold and beautiful traveler ready to take on the world. Here are seven incredible destinations where Black women can explore solo, feel secure, and be fully celebrated.

Why Safe and Inclusive Travel Matters

For Black women, travel isn’t just about adventure—it’s about navigating the world through a lens shaped by race, history, and identity. It means asking questions many others don’t have to: Will I be treated fairly? Will I be stared at? Will I be safe here—not just as a woman, but as a Black woman?

Racism doesn’t stop at the border. And while traveling should be freeing, for many of us, it can come with uncomfortable experiences—being followed in stores, ignored at restaurants, fetishised, or questioned for simply existing. It’s not about fear—it’s about being aware. It’s about wanting to explore without feeling like a spectacle or constantly having to prove your right to be where you are.

That’s why choosing safe, inclusive destinations matters. It allows you to show up fully, to breathe, to experience joy without the burden of being hyper-visible or misunderstood. It means walking through a city and feeling seen in the best way—not because you stand out, but because you belong.

A black woman in a floral dress walks confidently on a sunny cobblestone street, with vibrant buildings and flowers around her, exuding joy.

1. Ghana 🇬🇭

Why You’ll Love It: Ghana isn’t just a country—it’s a homecoming. With its rich African heritage, warm locals, and cultural pride, you’ll feel deeply connected and wholly celebrated. Cities like Accra and Cape Coast offer a mix of modern life and historical roots. From vibrant markets to historic slave castles, the journey is as emotional as it is liberating. If you chose to visit Ghana be sure to check out the Waterfalls Quad Biking and Aburi Botanical Gardens tour.

Bonus: Ghana’s “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return” campaigns have created a thriving community of diaspora traveler's.

2. Portugal 🇵🇹

Why You’ll Love It: Lisbon and Porto are buzzing with life, art, and a visible Afro-Portuguese community. You’ll find welcoming locals, incredible food, and plenty of history. Portugal’s laid-back vibe and walkable cities make it ideal for solo exploration. A Day Trip to Sintra is a must-see if you visit Portugal

Bonus: Afro-Portuguese history tours in Lisbon connect you with a past not often told—and make you feel like you're walking through your story.

3. Barbados 🇧🇧

Why You’ll Love It: Imagine walking down a beach and blending in completely. In Barbados, you’re not just safe—you’re home. As a majority-Black country with deep pride in its African roots, you’ll be met with warmth, familiarity, and cultural richness. Explore the beauty of the ocean with Catamaran Turtle Snorkelling with Lunch and Open Bar.

Bonus: Locals are kind, the music is soul-stirring, and the food? Chef’s kiss. You’ll never feel like an outsider here.

4. Japan 🇯🇵

Why You’ll Love It: While Japan is not very diverse, it is incredibly safe, organised, and respectful. Black women traveler's consistently report feeling safe walking alone—even at night. The blend of tradition and tech in cities like Kyoto and Osaka offers a beautiful solo experience. No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing a Traditional Tea Ceremony. If you go to Osaka this is an absolute must.

Bonus: The cherry blossom season is breathtaking, and locals are curious but kind. Just be ready for a few photo requests!

5. Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Why You’ll Love It: Pura vida isn’t just a saying—it’s a lifestyle. Costa Rica’s Afro-Caribbean regions, like Puerto Limón, celebrate Black culture in full colour. The nature is stunning, the people are kind, and wellness vibes are everywhere. For the self-care queens I highly recommend you try the LA Fortuna Waterfall and Hot Springs Tour. You won't be disappointed.

Bonus: Whether you’re zip-lining in the rainforest or meditating by the ocean, you’ll leave feeling grounded and alive.

6. South Africa 🇿🇦

Why You’ll Love It: Cape Town and Johannesburg are vibrant hubs for art, fashion, and Black excellence. South Africa offers a dynamic blend of city life, history, and natural beauty. You’ll find thriving Black-owned businesses, cafes, and wellness spaces. Make your trip unforgettable and add Table Mountain, Penguins and Cape Point Tour to your list.

Bonus: You’ll see a lot of people who look like you, especially in cultural spaces and events.

7. Thailand 🇹🇭

Why You’ll Love It: Thailand is the land of smiles, and that’s exactly what you’ll be doing. Bangkok and Chiang Mai are safe, affordable, and easy to navigate. The people are kind, and the spiritual, colourful culture offers endless inspiration. Get those instagramable shots with a Day Trip to Phi Phi Island.

Bonus: Black women are often treated with curiosity—but generally with warmth and respect. Solo travel groups for Black women love Thailand for a reason.

Solo travel as a Black woman isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about reclaiming your space in the world. It’s about moving through countries with confidence, curiosity, and without fear of being judged for simply existing. It’s about joy, freedom, and the kind of peace you can only find when you’re fully in your own company.

The destinations I’ve shared in this post aren’t just beautiful—they’re places where other Black women have felt safe, welcomed, and celebrated. Whether it’s walking through the streets of Lisbon, watching the sunset in Ghana, or unwinding on a beach in Barbados, these are places where you can just be.

If you’re ready to start planning your next trip—or your first one—take a moment to click through and explore each destination. These aren’t just travel suggestions, they’re invitations to step into a new chapter of your journey, on your terms.

✨Wherever you go, go as your whole self—confident, fearless, and unapologetically free.