okayy if you've seen our instagram recently we're obsessed with sri lanka. its one of those destinations you'll want to return to over and over again. it's amazing for your first solo trip but as always with travelling as a solo female travelling there's some things you should be aware of and prepared for before you visit to make your experience the best it can be!!
Is sri lanka safe to travel to as a solo female traveller?
in our opinion, we felt incredibly safe in sri lanka!! and honestly it's one of the most beautiful places on earth. crystal clear beaches along the coast, rich greenery and thick jungles and some of the best local food we've ever tasted! As with travelling solo anywhere as a women it's best to take precautions so you can make sure you enjoy every minute of your trip and spend less time stressing and more time adventuring!!
Ways to stay safe whilst solo travelling in Sri Lanka:
1. Consider joining a community group trip
Sri Lanka is an amazing place to travel to, but it's not as big of a backpacker hub as other places in south east asia like bali or thailand. travel can be difficult with a lot of the country connected through train and with adverse weather, lines can often go down and routes cancelled!! as sri lanka is such a big country it can be hard to navigate to see all the best places. from the north seeing sigiriya rock to the east of arugam bay and then across to ella and down to safari and the coast. It's a huge country that can be hard to work out if you're travelling solo!!
Joining a group tour is a great way to explore a country, like Sri Lanka, where you might be nervous to go alone!! with all your transport, activites, accommodation and group of like minded gals sorted. it's a fab way to see a country without the stress.
all trips are guided and run by locals, which means you get an authentic local experiences. One of the best parts of Sri Lanka is the cultural traditions and local moments. From the family-run cooking classes serving up incredible curries to night markets and quiet, locally known viewpoints, you're guide will be your key to these unique and truly magical moments on tour! Our brand new Gals Who Travel Sri Lanka trip is a perfect 10-day adventure where we'll visit the beaches, the cities, the National Parks and everything in between!
Reasons why travelling with Gals Who is amazing:
1. All your accommodation is pre-booked (no stressing on Booking.com, hoping you picked a good place).
2. You’ll make friends for life (most of our gals arrive solo and leave with new friendship circles and memories to last a lifetime!).
3. Your local guide is there for everything you might need (from finding the nearest market to a great food recommendation, they’re always on hand to help.)
4. Our itineraries are incredible! The Gals Who Sri Lanka adventure takes you through Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Udawalawe and Unawatuna. The incredible activities include climbing the Sigiriya Rock, the amazing Train to Ella,
Little Adams Peak Hike, an Elephant Safari, Local Farming Village Dinner, Tea Plantation Tour, Nine Arch Bridge and Jungle Beach Days. You can find out more about the Gals Who Travel Sri Lanka trip here!
2. Make sure you are well-connected
It goes without saying, but staying connected while travelling is so important and will give you peace of mind throughout your trip. Always make sure you have a signal and data whenever you go abroad, it’ll help you if you need directions, want to translate something, or just want to update your friends and family on the amazing things you’ve been up to.
Although it’s possible to rely on Wi-Fi in cafés and hotels, eSIMs are an amazing and affordable way to stay connected wherever you go. We recommend Airalo, and you can get a discount on your next eSIM by using the code GALS.
3. Don’t drink the tap water
When travelling in Sri Lanka, it’s important not to drink or brush your teeth using tap water. Instead, use bottled water or water from tanks that your guide recommends. Your local guide will always make sure you have access to water during journeys and can point you toward a shop if you need it. As with many South East Asian countries, drinking from the tap is a big no-no, you could end up getting sick if you do.
4. Respect local culture and traditions
Sri Lankan culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, and while visiting, it’s highly likely you’ll spend time at temples and religious sites. When visiting these, dress modestly and remove your shoes if required. As with anywhere you travel, it’s important to respect the local culture and learn the customs you’ll be experiencing. On a Gals Who Travel trip, your local guide will fill you in on everything you need to know, adding extra context that makes your interactions with locals even more meaningful and special.
5. Look after your belongings
Petty crime isn’t super common in Sri Lanka, but as with anywhere, it’s important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. When visiting busy areas or tourist sites, bring a small bag with a zipper and avoid keeping valuables in your back pockets. Leaving valuables stored away in your hotel reduces the risk of theft or misplacing something while exploring.
Packing light is also a great idea, you’ll be less likely to forget something, and you’ll have more room for souvenirs you pick up along the way!
More tips for staying safe and stress-free
1. Be cautious on the roads - Traffic in Sri Lanka can be busy and unpredictable, especially in cities. Always use pedestrian crossings when available, and if you’re hiring a scooter, make sure you wear a helmet and have a valid international driving permit.
2. Protect yourself from the sun and insects - Sri Lanka is tropical, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Even if it’s cloudy, UV levels can be high, and mosquitoes are active year-round, especially near water.
3. Trust your instincts and ask questions - If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Always trust your gut, ask your guide or group leader for advice, and don’t be afraid to say no to situations that make you uncomfortable. You’re there to have fun and feel safe doing it!
So… Is Sri Lanka Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Absolutely! With friendly locals, breathtaking scenery, and so much culture to soak up, Sri Lanka is a dream destination for solo female travellers. As long as you take normal safety precautions and travel smart, you’ll be in for an incredible experience.
And if you’d rather explore with other amazing girls by your side every step of the way, join one of our Gals Who Travel Sri Lanka adventures. We’ve got destinations running every month, and spots are go fast!
