Adventure
November 16, 2023
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Solo travel is an amazing way to see the world and not wait for everyone else in your life to get ready to join you. As we go through life, many others will have conflicting priorities that will keep them from seeing this big, beautiful world, and waiting until everyone else gets ready will lead you to a path of not getting to see it yourself.
If you have the time and money to take an extended trip or can work remotely, a solo vacation is the way to go. You have the flexibility to spend your downtime as you wish, whether that’s lounging on the beach, exploring local landmarks, or visiting amusement parks and museums. You won’t have to worry about what anyone else thinks of your vacation activities, and if you’re worried about safety or comfort, definitely do your research and pay attention to what other solo travelers have done before you. Learning from the mistakes of others really does help to ensure you are prepared for your own travels.
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Additionally, solo vacations are perfect for those who want to meet new people but aren’t interested in having a travel partner with them at all times. Of course, if you prefer traveling with others or being accompanied by a group, then group travel or organized tours might be better for you. But if you’re looking for a chance to see the world on your own terms, there’s no better way than with a solo vacation.
Looking for a fantastic way to go to new locations and escape the city? See my selection of just a few of awesome solo trips below! Some of my favorites were hiking in Zion National Park, the ancient ruins in Greece, and visiting the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. To begin this journey, I highly recommend taking a solo road trip if you’re looking for a way to enjoy some alone time. The broad, open landscape may provide you with lots of room to unwind and explore, and the roads are often in good condition. Here are just a few solo vacation ideas to tempt you:
This Park is a fantastic spot to explore on your own, with more than a million acres of old-growth woods. You may camp out if you like, and there are many twisting trails and remote lakes to see along the route.
Hiking – Explore a variety of hiking trails that wind through ancient redwood forests. Notable trails include the Lady Bird Johnson Grove, Tall Trees Grove, and Fern Canyon. The Coastal Trail provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and you may even spot whales during the migration season.
Scenic Drives – Take a scenic drive through the parks to experience the grandeur of the towering redwood trees. The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and Howland Hill Road are popular routes.
Wildlife Viewing – Redwood National and State Parks are home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk, black bears, banana slugs, and a variety of bird species.
Camping – Camp in one of the developed campgrounds within the parks to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. There are also backcountry camping options for a more secluded experience.
Backpacking – If you’re up for a more extended adventure, consider backpacking in the parks. Obtain permits and explore the wilderness, including the remote reaches of the Tall Trees Grove.
Ranger-Led Programs – Join ranger-led programs and guided walks to learn more about the natural and cultural history of the area.
Travel by car over to visit Arches National Park in Utah, or drop in at a desert day spa in Tucson. The environment in this area is among the most breathtaking in the nation, and there are fantastic camping, hiking, and biking locations nearby.
Utah’s Arches National Park is an absolute must-visit for any traveler in search of awe-inspiring natural wonders. This park is a geological marvel home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, towering red rock formations, and endless stretches of orange-hued landscapes. Solo explorers can embark on scenic drives, leisurely hikes, or even stargazing sessions, reveling in the surreal beauty of this unique terrain.
Hiking – Explore a variety of hiking trails that showcase the park’s iconic arches, rock fins, and towers. Popular trails include Delicate Arch Trail, Landscape Arch Trail, and Double Arch Trail.
Photography – Capture the incredible red rock scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset when the warm sunlight enhances the colors of the rock formations.
Scenic Drives – Take the scenic drive through the park, known as the Arches Scenic Drive, to access many of the main viewpoints and trailheads. The drive offers breathtaking views of the red rock formations.
Rock Climbing – For experienced climbers, Arches National Park provides opportunities for climbing on certain rock formations. Check with the park’s visitor center for regulations and safety information.
Ranger Programs – Attend ranger-led programs and guided walks to learn about the park’s geology, flora, fauna, and cultural history. These programs are educational and offer insights into the unique features of the park.
Balanced Rock – Visit the iconic Balanced Rock, one of the most famous formations in the park. It’s a short, easily accessible trail that offers great views of this precarious-looking rock structure.
Camping – The Devils Garden Campground offers a unique camping experience surrounded by red rock formations. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as the campground can fill up quickly.
In the Southwest, the arid landscape isn’t just about breathtaking vistas; it’s a canvas for your solo adventure.
All states allow for unrestricted travel—so do you have specific examples of areas to stop? Take in a concert at Red Rocks outside of Denver, or ride mountain bikes in Telluride. Amazing mountain ranges and picturesque scenery abound in this state, making it ideal for road trips with lots of exploring opportunities. In some of Colorado’s numerous rivers and streams, you may go fishing and make pit stops at picturesque views.
Rocky Mountain National Park – Explore the stunning alpine landscapes, mountain lakes, and hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. Trail Ridge Road offers breathtaking views, and popular hikes include Bear Lake and Emerald Lake.
Garden of the Gods – Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods features towering red rock formations against a backdrop of Pikes Peak. Hiking, rock climbing, and photography are popular activities in this unique city park.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve – Experience the tallest sand dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park. Sandboarding, sand sledding, and hiking on the dunes are popular activities. Medano Creek offers a refreshing escape during the warmer months.
Mesa Verde National Park – Delve into the rich history of Mesa Verde, where you can explore ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings and archaeological sites. Guided tours provide insights into the culture of the Ancestral Pueblo people.
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness – Known for its iconic Maroon Bells, this wilderness area near Aspen offers hiking, backpacking, and photography opportunities. The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is a popular choice for stunning views of the mountains.
Telluride – A picturesque mountain town, Telluride offers outdoor adventures year-round. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and festivals. In winter, Telluride is a renowned ski destination.
An amazing location that will leave you feeling inspired and eager to explore, whether you want to hike the Volcanic Mountains or take in Reykjavik’s exciting nightlife. I’d definitely recommend visiting the Golden Circle and don’t forget to head to the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. I just left Iceland and there were so many natural locations to see and always plenty to do whether you are on your own or on a group tour.
Golden Circle – Embark on the Golden Circle route, which includes the Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the tectonic plates, the Geysir Geothermal Area with erupting geysers, and Gullfoss, a powerful waterfall.
Gullfoss Waterfall – Visit Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, where the Hvítá River plunges into a rugged canyon. The mist and rainbows created by the falls add to the spectacle.
Geysir Geothermal Area – Witness the erupting geysers at the Geysir Geothermal Area, including Strokkur, which shoots hot water high into the air at regular intervals.
Þingvellir National Park – Explore Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and walk through Almannagjá Canyon.
Vatnajökull National Park – Discover the largest national park in Europe, Vatnajökull National Park, which encompasses diverse landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. Svartifoss, with its basalt columns, is a highlight.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Marvel at the surreal beauty of Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Take a boat tour to get up close to the ice formations.
Landmannalaugar – Visit the colorful rhyolite mountains and hot springs of Landmannalaugar, a remote and geologically unique area accessible by highland roads. It’s a popular starting point for the Laugavegur Trek.
With its incredible diversity and abundance of natural treasures, Costa Rica is the ideal location to discover peace and isolation. This paradise in Central America has something for everyone, from the Pacific Coast to the canopy of the jungle. While I traveled to Costa Rica several times with others, I can see the appeal whether it’s on your own or with someone else. The area is beautiful, the people are friendly, and the climate is awesome. The volcanos, ziplones, waterfalls, black beach, howler monkies, golf courses, and atv tours are but a few things that can keep you entertained. I even took my puppy with me from the US as I was planning on being there for over 6 months. I think he loved the water more than I did.
Arenal Volcano National Park – Hike around the base of the iconic Arenal Volcano, and relax in the nearby hot springs. The area offers opportunities for zip-lining, hanging bridge tours, and wildlife watching.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve – Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest, known for its misty landscapes, hanging bridges, and abundant wildlife. Take a canopy tour or hike through the cloud forest trails.
Manuel Antonio National Park – Enjoy the combination of pristine beaches and rainforest in Manuel Antonio National Park. Spot monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species as you hike the park’s trails.
Tortuguero National Park – Visit Tortuguero National Park, known for its extensive network of canals and its importance as a nesting site for sea turtles. Explore the waterways by boat and observe wildlife.
Corcovado National Park – Experience the biodiversity of Corcovado National Park, home to jaguars, tapirs, and numerous bird species. Hiking through the park’s dense rainforest offers a chance to encounter diverse wildlife.
Rincón de la Vieja National Park – Hike the trails of Rincón de la Vieja National Park to discover volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and unique flora. Activities include zip-lining, horseback riding, and waterfall rappelling.
Greece is the ideal destination to get away from the rush of city life because of its kilometers of sandy beaches and breathtaking landscape. Not to mention, the cuisine is fantastic here, so make sure to bring an appetite! If I may add, Santorini was a perfect solo travelers paradise. I spent several weeks here in a bit of the off season. The locals were friendly, the food was awesome, and the views were incredible. Defintiey take the time to bounce around, grab a half day on a catamaran, and see the beauty the islands have to offer.
New Zealand is an ideal place to go, whether you want to spend your days trekking or boating through Fiordland National Park, mountain bike thorugh the wineries or check out Queenstown’s vibrant nightlife. While this is a location I have not been as of yet, it is scheduled for April this year. Make sure to plan out when to go as the weather is a bit opposite of the States. By summer at home, it’s all out winter time in New Zealand. So, depending on your desires and the type of sports you’d like to be involved in, pay attention to the season. Queenstown is the ultimate adventure and nature lover’s sanctuary and I can not wait to touchdown in this haven.
If you’d like to try something a little different, voluteerring abroad can be a great way to see the world and meet people of different cultures. Making new friends and getting to know the local community may both be accomplished by volunteering while on vacation. It may also be a wonderful chance to pick up new skills and help out with a good cause. These four amazing solo excursions may be accomplished by volunteering:
https://www.volunteerhq.org/gb/solo-volunteering-abroad/
* Participate in numerous volunteer activities at an animal sanctuary in Costa Rica: This trip would allow you to experience the range of animals that dwell at the sanctuary.
* Working with children in Uganda: On this trip, you’d get the opportunity to assist and support underprivileged kids. Additionally, you’d get to travel across Uganda and interact with some intriguing individuals.
*Assisting in the construction of homes in Nicaragua: This trip would give you the opportunity to work on a cause that is close to your heart while also improving the lives of others. Additionally, you will get the chance to learn more about Nicaraguan traditions and culture.
*Volunteering in an animal shelter in India will provide you with the opportunity to work with animals that require care and attention while also learning about Indian culture
I hope this article provides a bit of inspiration and gives you some options on how to move forward with your next solo adventure. These places are sure to give you memories you won’t soon forget, whether you’re looking for a beautiful place to relax, a unique cultural experience, or just some time to yourself.
No matter where you decide to go and whether you’ve opted for solo travel or going/meeting up wih a group, I can guarantee that these areas will not disappoint!
Definitely take a moment and make your way on by Travel Till You Drop Destinations for a bit more inspiration for your next destination. Also, if you’re curious as to what goodies to bring on your trip, make sure to stop by the Travel Till You Drop Shop!
Hi, Jill Here
Hi! I’m Jill, a Dallas, Texas girl traveling the world. After a career in the Air Force and touring over 50 countries later, my need to explore keeps going! It’s time to rock & roll and find all those places I never knew I was missing.
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