The 10 Safest Countries for Black Women to Travel in 2025

Why Safety Matters for Black Women Travelers

Hey friend! 💛

I know that feeling—wanting to see the world but wondering if you'll truly feel safe and welcome out there. As a Black woman, those questions hit different, right?

But here's what I want you to know: There are SO many incredible places where you can travel freely, breathe easy, and feel genuinely embraced. Places where you won't have to think twice about walking down the street or wonder if you'll face uncomfortable situations.

I've put together this list of 10 countries where Black women travelers consistently feel safe, respected, and free to just... be. These aren't just low-crime destinations—they're places with warm people, amazing food, fun nightlife, and memories you'll treasure forever.

You deserve to explore this beautiful world. Let's find your perfect destination.

1. Japan – Respectful, Safe, and Absolutely Magical

Where to go: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka

Japan feels like a warm hug for solo travelers. It's one of the safest countries in the world, and people here are genuinely polite and helpful. Women travel alone here all the time, and there are even women-only hotel floors and train cars for extra peace of mind.

Yes, you might get some curious looks (especially outside Tokyo), but it comes from a place of curiosity, not malice. Japanese culture values respect deeply, and you'll feel that everywhere you go.

Budget: $1,800–$2,500 for a week (flights + hotel)

What to eat: Fresh sushi, steaming bowls of ramen, okonomiyaki (it's like a savory pancake-pizza hybrid!), and all the matcha treats your heart desires.

Nightlife: Tokyo's Shinjuku and Shibuya neighborhoods light up at night with karaoke bars, jazz clubs, and neon-lit fun. Osaka's bar scene is equally vibrant and welcoming.

Don't miss: Mount Fuji, the serene bamboo forests of Arashiyama, Kyoto's stunning temples, and if you're there in spring—those dreamy cherry blossoms.

2. Portugal – Sunshine, Soul, and Community

Where to go: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve

Portugal has this laid-back, welcoming energy that just makes you feel at home. Lisbon especially has a growing African diaspora community, so you might hear familiar music, find familiar flavors, and meet people who share your story.

The crime rate is low, the people are warm, and honestly? The food is incredible.

Budget: $1,200–$1,800 for a week

What to eat: Bacalhau (their famous salted cod), those heavenly pastel de nata custard tarts, grilled sardines with a squeeze of lemon.

Nightlife: Lisbon's Bairro Alto neighborhood comes alive at night with rooftop bars, soulful fado music, and cozy lounges. Porto offers wine bars along the river that are perfect for winding down.

Don't miss: Riding Lisbon's colorful vintage trams, exploring the stunning Jerónimos Monastery, wine tasting in the Douro Valley, and the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve.

3. Iceland – Nature's Masterpiece (and Super Safe!)

Where to go: Reykjavik, Vik, Selfoss

Iceland consistently ranks as THE safest country in the world. Like, literally number one. Add to that strong gender equality and some of the most jaw-dropping nature you'll ever see, and you've got a winner.

It's quieter and more low-key than big cities, which some travelers absolutely love. The people are friendly, and solo female travel here is completely normal.

Budget: $2,000–$3,000 for a week

What to eat: Hearty lamb soup, skyr (super thick Icelandic yogurt), fresh cod, and yes—if you're adventurous—try the fermented shark just to say you did!

Nightlife: Reykjavik has a surprisingly fun pub and live music scene. Locals are friendly and love to chat, especially on weekends.

Don't miss: Chasing the Northern Lights (September–April is best), soaking in the Blue Lagoon, exploring glaciers, watching geysers shoot into the sky, and those otherworldly black sand beaches.

4. Canada – Diversity, Comfort, and Familiar Vibes

Where to go: Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver

Canada feels like a big, multicultural hug. There are thriving Black communities in Toronto and Montreal especially, so you'll find familiar food, hair salons that get it, and people who look like you.

It's safe, it's clean, and honestly—it might feel like traveling abroad but with a lot of the comforts of home.

Budget: $1,200–$1,700 for a week

What to eat: Poutine (fries, gravy, and cheese curds—trust me), butter tarts, Montreal bagels, and incredible Caribbean food in Toronto's diverse neighborhoods.

Nightlife: Toronto's King Street West is buzzing with rooftop bars and lounges. Montreal is famous for its festivals and the lively Crescent Street area.

Don't miss: Niagara Falls (it's even more stunning in person), the mountain beauty of Banff National Park, and Montreal's charming old European-style streets.

5. Ghana – Come Home to Your Roots

Where to go: Accra, Cape Coast, Kumasi

Okay, can we talk about Ghana for a second? If you've ever felt that pull to connect with your heritage, this is your sign. This is the motherland, friend, and the welcome you'll receive here is something truly special.

Ghana is politically stable and safe—those are the facts. But what really matters is how you'll feel here. In Accra especially, you'll sense the energy the moment you arrive. The music, the food, the laughter, the pride. It's powerful. It's home in a way that's hard to explain until you experience it.

Black women travelers absolutely love Accra for its mix of rich culture and vibrant nightlife. You'll see yourself reflected everywhere, and that feeling? That's priceless.

Budget: $1,500–$2,000 for a week

What to eat: Jollof rice (yes, Ghanaian jollof—and yes, it's amazing!), kelewele (those addictive spicy fried plantains), banku with perfectly grilled tilapia. Every meal feels like a celebration.

Nightlife: Accra's beach bars and Afrobeats clubs are absolutely unforgettable. Picture this: ocean breeze, live music pouring out of art lounges, and that infectious Ghanaian energy that makes you want to dance all night. It's pure joy.

Don't miss: Cape Coast Castle is a must-visit, though I'll be honest—it's emotional and heavy, but so, so important. The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial celebrates the father of Pan-Africanism. And the canopy walk at Kakum National Park? Walking above the rainforest on those bridges is an experience you'll never forget.

6. New Zealand – Adventure Meets Genuine Warmth

Where to go: Auckland, Queenstown, Rotorua

If you've been dreaming of epic adventures in stunning landscapes, New Zealand is calling your name. And here's the best part: it's not just safe—it's incredibly welcoming.

The locals (called Kiwis) are some of the friendliest people you'll meet. They're genuinely warm and helpful, which makes exploring so much easier when you're traveling solo. Plus, the Maori culture adds such richness and depth to your experience. You'll learn, you'll be moved, and you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for this beautiful place.

Solo female travel here is super common and totally normalized, so you'll fit right in.

Budget: $2,200–$3,200 for a week

What to eat: Hangi is a traditional Maori feast where food is cooked underground—it's an experience in itself! Grab fish and chips by the beach (they do it so well here), and save room for pavlova, their famous meringue dessert.

Nightlife: Auckland has modern clubs and sophisticated wine bars if you want that city vibe. Queenstown offers cozy, fun pubs with absolutely stunning mountain views—perfect for winding down after a day of adventure.

Don't miss: Visiting Hobbiton (yes, from Lord of the Rings—it's magical even if you're not a superfan!). Explore glowworm caves that look like starry skies underground. And if you're feeling brave, Queenstown is the bungee jumping capital of the world. Even if you don't jump, watching others do it is entertaining!

7. Thailand – Affordable, Friendly, and Full of Life

Where to go: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi

Here's something beautiful: Thailand has become incredibly popular with solo female travelers, and there's a growing community of Black women who've traveled here and felt genuinely welcomed and safe. That means something, right?

Thailand offers this perfect mix—it's affordable (your dollar stretches far here), it's safe, and the people are genuinely kind and helpful. The Thai concept of hospitality runs deep, and you'll feel it everywhere you go.

Oh, and the food? The food alone is worth the plane ticket. I'm not even exaggerating.

Budget: $1,200–$1,800 for a week

What to eat: Pad Thai (get it from a street cart for the most authentic experience), green curry that'll make your taste buds sing, tom yum soup, and mango sticky rice. Seriously, mango sticky rice might change your life. It's that good.

Nightlife: Bangkok's Khao San Road is legendary—it's the backpacker hub with energy for days. Phuket's beach clubs let you dance under the stars with your toes in the sand. And rooftop bars across the country offer incredible city and ocean views.

Don't miss: The Grand Palace in Bangkok is absolutely stunning. Chiang Mai's temples are peaceful and beautiful—perfect for those quiet, reflective moments. Visit ethical elephant sanctuaries (do your research to find the good ones!), and explore the floating markets for a truly unique shopping experience.

8. Mauritius – Island Paradise and True Peace of Mind

Where to go: Port Louis, Grand Baie, Chamarel

Picture this: turquoise water so clear you can see straight to the bottom. White sand beaches that look like they've been photoshopped. And a feeling of complete safety and peace that lets you truly, fully relax.

That's Mauritius.

This gorgeous island in the Indian Ocean is often called the safest country in Africa. It's multicultural (you'll hear French, Creole, Hindi, and English), and that diversity creates this beautiful, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for pure beach relaxation or a bit of adventure, you can have both here—and feel completely at ease the whole time.

Budget: $1,700–$2,300 for a week

What to eat: Dholl puri is a lentil flatbread that's absolutely addictive—you'll want it every day. Fish vindaye has these amazing tangy, spicy flavors. And gateau piment (spicy fritters) are perfect as a snack. The food here reflects the island's multicultural mix, and it's delicious.

Nightlife: Grand Baie is where it's at for nightlife—beach clubs and waterfront lounges with live sega dancing. Sega is the traditional music and dance of Mauritius, and it's so much fun to watch (or join in!).

Don't miss: Le Morne Brabant is a UNESCO World Heritage site with deep historical significance for enslaved people who sought freedom there. Chamarel's seven-colored earth is this wild natural phenomenon where the sand is literally seven different colors. And Black River Gorges National Park is perfect for hiking and spotting rare birds.

9. Costa Rica – Pura Vida Vibes All Day

Where to go: San José, Tamarindo, Arenal, Monteverde

Costa Rica lives by "Pura Vida"—the pure life. And you'll feel it everywhere: in the friendly locals, the stunning nature, the laid-back pace.

It's safe, welcoming, and perfect if you love eco-adventures and being in nature.

Budget: $1,200–$1,900 for a week

What to eat: Gallo pinto (rice and beans, breakfast of champions), casado (a hearty plate with rice, beans, plantains, and meat), fresh tropical fruit everywhere.

Nightlife: Tamarindo's beach bars are lively and fun. San José has salsa clubs if you want to dance the night away.

Don't miss: Zip-lining through the cloud forest, soaking in natural hot springs near Arenal Volcano, wildlife spotting at Manuel Antonio National Park.

10. Rwanda – Clean, Safe, and So Inspiring

Where to go: Kigali, Lake Kivu, Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda has one of the most incredible transformation stories. Today, it's one of the cleanest, safest countries in Africa with a forward-thinking spirit.

For Black women travelers, it's a place to witness resilience, beauty, and hope—all while feeling completely safe.

Budget: $1,500–$2,100 for a week

What to eat: Ugali, brochettes (grilled meat skewers), isombe (cassava leaves with peanuts).

Nightlife: Kigali's rooftop bars and live jazz spots are growing and worth checking out.

Don't miss: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park (truly life-changing), the Kigali Genocide Memorial (emotional but important), and the canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest.

You've Got This, Friend

Listen—I know taking that first international trip can feel scary. But you are so much braver than you think. And these places? They're ready to welcome you with open arms.

Whether you're craving culture in Ghana, beaches in Mauritius, food adventures in Portugal, or nature in New Zealand, there's a whole world out there waiting for you to explore it.

You deserve to see it. You deserve to feel safe while you do. And you absolutely deserve to have the time of your life.

✨ Ready to make it happen?

👉 Head over to CheerioEscapes.shop and request your custom itinerary. I'll design a personalized trip that's safe, exciting, and unforgettable—just for you.

Let's turn those travel dreams into plane tickets. 💛