Travelling solo after 50 can feel both liberating and daunting. But for many mature women, it’s an empowering chapter of life that brings new confidence, purpose, and perspective. Whether recently retired, divorced, widowed, or simply craving adventure, more women over 50 are embracing solo travel than ever before.
In this blog, we share real-life inspirational travel stories from solo female travellers who prove that age is just a number. From hiking through the Andes to exploring quiet villages in Italy, these women show that the world doesn’t shrink as you age—it expands.
Why Travel Solo Over 50?
Before we dive into these stories, let’s explore why women over 50 are increasingly choosing to travel solo. For many, it’s about:
Freedom – no compromises, no timetables, and total independence.
Self-discovery – reconnecting with passions and rediscovering personal identity.
Confidence – showing the world (and themselves) that they can do it alone.
Community – meeting like-minded travellers and locals with shared stories and experiences.
Now, let’s hear from women who’ve done just that—stepped out of their comfort zones to explore the world solo after 50.
1. Susan’s Camino de Santiago: “I Walked Myself Home”
At 62, Susan from Yorkshire decided to walk the Camino de Santiago. After years of caring for others, she finally put herself first.
“I’d raised children, supported a husband through illness, and worked as a teacher for 30 years. When I retired, I didn’t want a cruise—I wanted something meaningful.”
She trained for six months before flying to Spain and walking over 800km across ancient paths.
“I met people from all walks of life, and for the first time in decades, I had time to think, breathe, and reflect. It was spiritual, healing, and empowering. I walked myself home—physically and emotionally.”
2. Anita’s Moroccan Adventure: “It’s Never Too Late to Chase the Sun”
Anita, 57, from London, had always dreamed of visiting Morocco but never had the chance while raising her family. After a difficult divorce, she booked a solo tour of Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara.
“Everyone said I was brave. I didn’t feel brave—I felt alive! I rode camels under the stars, danced with Berber women, and drank mint tea with strangers who felt like friends.”
Anita now travels twice a year, always solo.
“The confidence you gain from solo travel is unmatched. It spills over into every area of your life.”
3. Margaret in Matera: “I Found Peace in the Unexpected”
Margaret, 68, from Edinburgh, discovered the beauty of slow travel when she spent three weeks in Basilicata, southern Italy.
“I didn’t want a packed itinerary—I wanted to wander. I booked a small cave guesthouse in Matera and spent my days strolling, writing, and sipping coffee in quiet piazzas.”
She made friends with locals, took a cooking class, and even learned basic Italian.
“At my age, people think your world narrows. Mine has never felt wider. Travel reminds you that there’s beauty in every chapter of life.”
4. Rachel’s South East Asia Sabbatical: “Retirement Isn’t the End—It’s the Beginning”
After retiring at 60, Rachel from Bristol gifted herself six months in South East Asia.
“I wanted to mark my retirement with something bold. I backpacked through Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. I stayed in hostels, learned to ride a scooter, and even tried zip-lining!”
Despite initial nerves, she says it was the best decision she ever made.
“I met so many women my age doing the same thing. We weren’t the odd ones out—we were trendsetters! It’s not about being young; it’s about being curious.”
5. Linda’s Solo Safari: “My Bucket List Became My To-Do List”
Linda, 65, from Manchester, had always dreamed of a safari. When her best friend passed away unexpectedly, she took it as a wake-up call.
“We’d always said we’d go to Africa one day. After she died, I thought—what am I waiting for?”
Linda booked a small group safari in Kenya, travelling solo but joining other adventurers.
“I saw elephants at sunrise, lions at dusk, and sat around the campfire under a million stars. I carried my friend’s photo in my backpack the whole way.”
She encourages other mature women to stop putting dreams on hold.
“You don’t need to wait for someone to go with you. Go for yourself, and you’ll meet others along the way.”
What These Stories Teach Us
These inspiring women prove that solo travel over 50 isn’t just possible—it’s powerful. Whether you’re seeking healing, excitement, reflection, or connection, travel has a unique way of bringing clarity and joy.
Common Themes from Solo Female Travellers Over 50:
Resilience: Many have faced loss, change, or reinvention—and travel became a catalyst for growth.
Joy in simplicity: Slow mornings, local meals, meaningful conversations.
Newfound confidence: Navigating the world solo enhances independence.
A sense of community: Friendships form easily on the road, especially among fellow solo travellers.
Tips for Solo Travel Over 50
If these stories have inspired you, here are a few tips to help you get started:
Start small – Try a short trip or a familiar destination to build confidence.
Plan smart – Research destinations that are safe and welcoming to solo female travellers.
Pack light and smart – Comfortable shoes, a good book, and layered clothing are your best friends.
Choose the right accommodation – Guesthouses, boutique hotels, or women-only hostels can offer both safety and social opportunities.
Stay connected – Keep family or friends updated, and use apps to help with translation, directions, or emergency info.
Embrace slow travel – Take your time and soak in the experience rather than rushing from place to place.
Final Thoughts: Travel Has No Expiry Date
The world doesn’t belong to the young. It belongs to the curious, the bold, and the open-hearted. These women over 50 show that solo travel can be even more meaningful later in life. With time, freedom, and a little courage, mature solo female travellers can explore not only new places but also new parts of themselves.
So if you’ve ever thought, “Am I too old to travel solo?”—take these women as your sign: you’re not too old, and it’s never too late.
Pack your bags. The world is waiting—and you’ve earned this adventure.
