Women Want Women Only Travel

The Rise of Women-Only Travel

Women-only travel is no longer a niche trend. It is one of the fastest-growing segments in global tourism, particularly in nature-based, cultural, and wilderness travel.

Below are the key facts shaping this shift.

Why women-only travel is growing

• Women make over 80% of global travel decisions, including destination choice, budget, and timing

• Solo female travel has increased by approximately 20–30% since 2022, according to major travel platforms

• Women aged 45–65 are one of the fastest-growing travel demographics

• Financial independence and later-life career flexibility are enabling longer, more intentional trips

• Many women report travelling at a stage of life where they prioritise depth over volume

Why women are choosing women-only experiences

• Greater sense of personal safety and psychological comfort

• Shared pace: less rushing, more observation, conversation, and reflection

• Reduced emotional labour, women do not need to manage group dynamics dominated by male travel styles

• Stronger group cohesion and trust in small, women-led groups

• Increased willingness to travel alone when the group context feels aligned

Why wilderness travel appeals to women

• Nature-based travel consistently ranks highest for women seeking rest, clarity, and reconnection

• Wildlife and landscape travel removes social comparison and performance pressure

• Time in wilderness environments is linked to reduced stress and improved mental well-being

• Women report feeling more present and embodied in non-urban environments

• Safari, walking, and cultural travel offer learning without overstimulation

Why safari and cultural travel are seeing growth

• Safari travel combines structure and freedom, guided days with space to reflect

• Smaller groups allow for quieter observation and deeper engagement

• Cultural interaction adds meaning beyond sightseeing

• Many women prefer itineraries that include local knowledge, crafts, conservation, and community

• Travel that supports local people is increasingly a deciding factor

What women are no longer looking for

• Fast, checklist-driven itineraries

• Over-luxury colonial experiences that disconnect travellers from the place

• Large tour groups with minimal cultural contact

• Performative wellness or spiritual packaging

• “Once-in-a-lifetime” language that pressures rather than invites

What women want instead

• Thoughtfully paced journeys

• Clear logistics and transparent pricing

• Calm leadership and experienced guides

• Cultural learning alongside wildlife

• Travel that feels purposeful, not extractive

The bigger shift

Women-only travel reflects a broader change in how travel is valued:

• From consumption to connection

• From spectacle to substance

• From status to experience

Wilderness travel means eco-luxury, and sustainability is vital.