9 Best Countries For Solo Travel North America

Welcome to our blog post about the best countries for solo travel North America. If you’re planning a solo trip, North America is a fantastic region to explore.

With diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and a variety of things to do, you’re sure to find an adventure that suits your style.

After traveling solo across different countries in North America, I’ve discovered which destinations are perfect for people traveling on their own.

Let me share why I think Aruba, Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and the USA are some of the best places for solo travel in North America.

best countries for solo travel North America

Here are my recommendations for the best countries for solo travel North America.

USA

The USA is massive and offers so many options for solo travelers. One of the reasons I love solo travel here is because it’s easy to get around, especially with English being the main language.

From bustling cities like New York and Los Angeles to nature escapes like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, there’s something for everyone. The country is also generally safe, and it’s easy to meet other travelers or locals.

I especially enjoyed hiking in California—solo hiking can feel so freeing!

Pro Tip: Use apps like Meetup or Airbnb Experiences to connect with locals or other travelers. You’ll find everything from guided tours to casual meetups in cities.

Aruba

If you’re looking for the perfect beach getaway, Aruba is ideal for solo travelers. I found it to be one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. As I wandered the beaches, I felt totally relaxed knowing there’s a low crime rate here.

Plus, the island is small, so getting around is a breeze, even if you’re alone. The locals are friendly, and I was able to find plenty of solo-friendly tours, like snorkeling and windsurfing, where I connected with other solo travelers.

Pro Tip: Stay in Eagle Beach or Palm Beach—both areas are safe and popular with solo travelers. You’ll easily meet other travelers while relaxing by the ocean.

Belize

Belize might not be the first country that comes to mind, but it’s a hidden gem for solo travelers. I loved exploring the Mayan ruins and snorkeling in the Great Blue Hole.

The country is English-speaking, which made things much easier for me as a solo traveler. One thing that surprised me was how welcoming the locals were. Whether I was staying in a hostel or a small guesthouse, I felt like part of the community.

The laid-back vibe in Caye Caulker is perfect for anyone traveling alone.

Pro Tip: Stay in hostels or guesthouses on the coast where tours are organized daily. It’s a great way to find a buddy for snorkeling or other adventures.

Canada

Traveling solo in Canada was a breeze, and it quickly became one of my top destinations in North America. The country is known for being safe and friendly, which made me feel at ease.

From hiking the Rocky Mountains in Banff National Park to exploring the cities of Vancouver and Toronto, I always felt welcomed.

One of my favorite moments was taking a train ride across the country—it was a peaceful, scenic way to travel solo and meet people along the way.

Pro Tip: Use Canada’s extensive network of VIA Rail for cross-country travel. The trains are comfortable, scenic, and a great place to meet other travelers.

Costa Rica

If you’re into adventure and nature, Costa Rica is an awesome country for solo travel. The country is known for its eco-tourism and stunning landscapes.

I spent my time zip-lining through the jungle, hiking volcanoes, and soaking in hot springs. The solo travel scene here is great, with plenty of group tours that make it easy to meet fellow travelers.

Costa Rica also has a strong focus on safety, especially in popular tourist areas like La Fortuna and Monteverde, which gave me peace of mind as a solo traveler.

Pro Tip: Join group tours in La Fortuna or Monteverde to meet other solo travelers while exploring volcanoes and cloud forests. Group hikes are safer and more fun!

Cuba

Solo travel in Cuba is an adventure like no other. The country’s unique blend of culture, history, and music left a lasting impression on me. Walking through the streets of Havana, I felt like I was stepping back in time.

Despite some language barriers, I found the people to be incredibly helpful and kind. The country is also very safe, even for solo travelers.

I loved exploring Viñales, a small town surrounded by tobacco farms and beautiful landscapes—it’s the perfect spot to relax and disconnect from the world.

Pro Tip: Stay in a casa particular (a local guesthouse) to have an authentic experience and get insider tips from your host on where to go and what to see.

Guatemala

Guatemala is an underrated gem for solo travelers. I loved visiting Antigua, a charming colonial city surrounded by volcanoes.

It’s easy to navigate, and I found plenty of other solo travelers to connect with. The local culture is fascinating, especially in the markets where I picked up handmade crafts.

If you’re into nature, Lake Atitlán is a must-visit. I felt safe exploring the lake and its villages, and it was easy to hop from one place to another using local boats.

Pro Tip: Base yourself in Antigua or Lake Atitlán, where there are plenty of hostels, cafes, and group tours. Both places are safe and great for meeting fellow travelers.

Mexico

Mexico is often seen as a vacation spot, but it’s also fantastic for solo travelers. I spent time in Mexico City, which is full of art, history, and great food.

There’s something special about wandering through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods on your own. Oaxaca was another highlight for me—the food, the culture, and the people are incredible.

While some areas require caution, I found that most tourist destinations like Tulum and Playa del Carmen were safe and easy to explore solo.

Pro Tip: In cities like Mexico City and Oaxaca, join walking tours to get familiar with the area and meet other travelers. It’s a safe way to explore local neighborhoods.

Panama

For solo travelers who want a mix of city and nature, Panama is perfect. I loved visiting Panama City—the modern skyline combined with the historic Casco Viejo district made it feel like two cities in one.

Outside the city, the San Blas Islands were a paradise for solo travelers. The islands are untouched and offer an escape from the busy world.

Solo travel here is simple because it’s a well-connected country, and I found that English is spoken in most tourist areas.

Pro Tip: Spend a few days exploring Panama City and then head to the San Blas Islands. Book tours directly with local agencies to avoid overpaying online.

Conclusion

North America offers some of the best countries for solo travel, each with its unique charm. Whether you’re looking for stunning nature, vibrant cities, or relaxing beaches, there’s a country for you.

From the safety of Aruba and Canada to the adventure-filled landscapes of Costa Rica and Guatemala, you won’t run out of places to explore. Solo travel in this part of the world is rewarding and filled with opportunities to meet new people, discover yourself, and enjoy freedom.

So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!