Is Iceland Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Iceland is one of the safest countries for solo female travelers. The crime rate is notably low and the locals are very friendly and hospitable. There's a good infrastructure with well-maintained roads and reliable public transportation. It's highly unlikely that you'll have any trouble during your stay if you behave reasonably and follow the general rules. However, don't neglect your personal safety and always let someone know your itinerary.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Very safe

Iceland, including its capital Reykjavik, is one of the safest countries in the world to travel to as a solo female, even at night. It has a culture that highly respects women, and crime rates are particularly low, considering it as one of the countries with the lowest crime rates globally. Public spaces are well-lit and populated, even at night. However, as always, basic precautions must still be taken, like not walking alone in isolated areas late at night or leaving personal belongings unattended.

Public transportation:Very safe

Iceland stands as a paradise for solo travelers, including public transportation safety. Its buses, ferries, and taxis are well-regulated and reliable. The country's low crime rate extends to its public transit systems as well. Moreover, locals are generally polite and respectful, and the travelers usually feel welcomed and secure. The convenience of online booking also enhances the travel experience. Road safety is ensured nicely making Iceland is a great country for solo traveling women.

Street harassment:Very low

Iceland is renowned for being both incredibly safe and respectful towards women. Instances of street harassment are remarkably low, with the locals generally keeping to themselves and offering assistance when asked. It's quite common for solo female travelers to explore without experiencing any form of street harassment, making this Nordic country an ideal destination for safe travel.

Petty crimes:Very low

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, with an extremely low crime rate. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching are incredibly rare, especially outside of the capital, Reykjavik. However, as with any travel, it's important to uphold common sense safety measures, such as not leaving your belongings unattended.

Tap water:Very safe

Iceland's tap water is incredibly clean and is ranked among the best in the world. It's sourced from pure natural resources, making it not only safe to drink but also very delicious. Don't hesitate to drink water straight from the tap during your journey. Remember to bring a refillable bottle to enjoy this perks anywhere, anytime without additional cost.

Is Iceland safe to travel?

4.8 /5

Based on 34 experiences

Olivia

Olivia (18)

United Kingdom

Family travel experience

We visited The Secret Lagoon in Iceland and it was so worth it. There wasn’t many food options and the drinks were quite expensive, but the initial entry fee was cheaper than expected (however we did buy it included with a Golden Circle tour so it may have been cheaper than usual). The lagoon was so much hotter than I had been expecting and isn’t overrated at all, the water is so lovely and I wasn’t even cold when I left the water and walked into the snow - that’s how strong the heat rising from the water was! The Secret Lagoon isn’t really talked about as much as the Blue Lagoon, which meant this wasn’t too crowded and felt a lot calmer and safer than the Blue Lagoon, so I would definitely recommend this as an alternative!

Posted: February 4, 2024Experienced: January, 2024
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Solo travel experience

Iceland is a womderful place! It is safe and has tons of things to do. However, it is not cheap and people who are not used to driving in the snow or highway, should not to rent a car here, as I saw a ton of tourists left in the middle of nowhere. It is not particularly cheap, but I stayed at Hi hostel and booked tours with them for a reasonable price.

Posted: February 3, 2024Experienced: January, 2019
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Solo travel experience

I was in Iceland alone and I can definitely say it was worth it, even though it's fairly expensive. I rented a car and drove to all the attractions, except for the glacier tour. People were friendly and I really felt safe. I highly recommend it if it's on your list of places to visit.

Posted: December 27, 2023
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Group travel experience

Spent more on excursions and packed food from home since food is so expensive there. The university opens the dorms in the summer as a hostel so you can have a private room with shared bathroom for a cheap price. Very safe and fun trip, went with one other female

Posted: December 27, 2023Experienced: December, 2023
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Solo travel experience

Iceland is one of the safest countries for solo female travelers and I can confirm that. I felt really safe there. That's where I took my first solo trip. I also had quite a strong anxiety and the first night was tough, but after that, everything got much better.

Posted: December 25, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I spent two weeks in Iceland back in May - a few days in Reykjavik, and then I rented a camper and traveled around the country. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. My camper had WiFi, but most places also had WiFi and I could get a decent signal in most places. Most people spoke English and I never felt unsafe at any point during the trip.

Posted: November 6, 2023
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africa

africa (26)

Spain

Group travel experience

Iceland is the safest country I have ever travelled to. I have been living here for almost 5 months now. It's a beautiful country with lots of things to do, but it has a very bad climate so be prepared for it when you come here.

Posted: September 7, 2023Experienced: May, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I went in December and visited Sky Lagoon and Golden Circle, which were simply amazing. I also took a trip to see the Northern Lights, which was great. I felt safe the whole time.

Posted: April 10, 2023
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Solo travel experience

Iceland is a very safe place for solo car exploration. I rented a car and drove to Vik alone. It was beautiful. I stopped so many times to take pictures, it was not a problem at all. Just don't exceed the speed limit, because the fine is high.

Posted: December 10, 2022
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Group travel experience

I went in mid-October. It was fantastic, and we saw the Northern Lights. The drive is very straightforward and safe. I stayed in Reykjavik and did full-day trips. I highly recommend the Snaefellsnes peninsula. There is a lot to see and do there. Many things are very expensive, so shopping in a grocery store like Bonus is a great way to save money by making your own meals. There are signs for landmarks on the roads (they are blue and white) and I suggest pulling off there because there's always something really cool. We managed to see a glacier by doing this.

Posted: November 19, 2022
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Is Iceland safe for women?

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. Harassment and violence is super rare. The tap water is safe to drink and is one of the best waters in the world. It is a very safe country for solo female travelers. These three things you should watch out for; •Be aware the nature can be dangerous specially “Reynisfjara” a popular tourist destination, do not go anywhere close to the sea where there can suddenly be giant crash waves that sweeps people out to sea and there is not much that can be done to save someone. •Pick pocketing is something that did not exist in Iceland until recently criminal groups from other countries come to target tourists at crowded tourist destinations like Gullfoss and Geysir to pickpocket, the scam is usually they will ask you to take a photo for them while another person steal’s, but this will not happen anywhere elsewhere else in Iceland. •In general no matter the country it is wise to watch your drink at a crowded bar. If you feel unsafe don’t hesitate to ask for help, Icelanders take woman’s safety at the bar or clubs very seriously.

Posted: March 20, 2024
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Is Iceland safe right now?

Before your visit to Iceland, it's essential to check travel advisories for Iceland, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States government advises to exercise normal precautions in Iceland. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 26, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian government advises taking normal security precautions in Iceland. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 10, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises exercising normal safety precautions in Iceland. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: March 25, 2024

Is Iceland worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 34 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.9/5

Safety

4.8/5

Food

3.9/5

Budget-friendly

2.5/5
Johanna

Johanna

Canada

Family travel experience

Iceland is surreal!!!!!!! A dream came true, I fell in love with the country, the landscapes are breathtaking ! A bit expensive but worth the money, never felt more at peace than in Iceland. I would go back, definitively

Posted: April 6, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 2/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Chiharu

Chiharu

United Kingdom

Group travel experience

The landscape was amazing- if you can accept the coldness it is worth travelling in winter, but needs good quality snow boots and a waterproof jacket, it was very stormy, and I will recommend travelling with someone and booking a hotel with a kitchen, the food was so expensive and if you are not a rich, it's impossible to manage to eat out for every single meal.

Posted: March 7, 2024
Things to do: 4/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 4/5
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Meet locals in Iceland

Meet local women in Iceland who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Laufey

Laufey

About Me

I’m a 23yr old Icelander who loves nature, food, activities, adventures and going to the gym. Love meeting likeminded people, drinking and dancing the night away.

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Sigrún

Sigrún

About Me

Hey, My name is Sigrún and I'm interested in art, backpacking, animals, culture, games, food & cuisine, events & social, solo travel and sunbathing

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Stay with locals in Iceland

Stay with local women in Iceland who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Eva

Eva

Reykjavík

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi I am Eva, I am 50 years old and a single mom. I love animals and nature. I like to travel and meet new people, see new cities and learn about new cultures.

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Andrea

Andrea

Sveitarfélagið Hornafjörður

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3 days

About me

Glacier guide. Traveller. Outdoor enthusiasts. Solo traveller. Meditation. Yoga. Plant-based food.

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Upcoming visitors to Iceland

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Rachel

Rachel

About Me

Hi! I'm Rachel! I'm a total geek, but also love being outdoors. I'm an introvert but I still enjoy meeting new people.

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Anna

Anna

About Me

I’m a curious and indipendent. I have always loved to travel, try to see places as the locals live it

Speaking

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Safety in Iceland