Venezuela, Peru, and Gabon Named the Most Hazardous Countries for Solo Travel in 2026: Here’s Why

Published on February 24, 2026

Image generated with Ai

In 2026, Venezuela has been ranked as the most dangerous destination for solo travellers, according to a comprehensive risk index analysis by Squaremouth. The analysis highlights concerns about violent crime, lack of safety for pedestrians, limited healthcare access, and poor infrastructure. The country’s high risk score of 9.74 out of 10 raises alarm bells for anyone considering solo travel in Venezuela. This has caused a significant decline in tourist numbers, especially among those travelling alone, due to safety concerns and insufficient support systems in place.

Why Venezuela is a Top Risk for Solo Travellers

Venezuela’s position as the highest-risk destination for solo travellers is a reflection of its ongoing challenges with violent crime and a deteriorating safety infrastructure. A startling 76.8% of locals express fear about being attacked, with fewer than 10% of residents feeling safe walking alone at night. The risk factors go beyond crime, as limited healthcare services and poor infrastructure further increase the country’s danger for tourists. In particular, access to healthcare outside major urban areas is scarce, making it especially unsafe for travellers who find themselves in emergency situations.

Peru: A Close Second in Solo Travel Risk

In second place on the risk index is Peru, with a danger score of 8.87. Despite its rich cultural heritage and popular tourist attractions like Machu Picchu, the country faces significant safety concerns for solo travellers. Data reveals that only 22.6% of residents feel safe walking alone at night, and nearly 60% of locals are concerned about being attacked. Crime rates, including theft and violent assaults, contribute to the country’s high risk score. Moreover, slower mobile internet speeds and unreliable infrastructure in certain areas increase the risks for independent travellers.

Gabon: Healthcare and Infrastructure Concerns Contribute to High Risk

Gabon ranks third on the list with a risk index of 8.51. The primary contributing factors to its high-risk status include limited access to healthcare and a lack of infrastructure, especially outside major cities. Healthcare quality is relatively low, and hospitals are few and far between in rural areas. These factors make it difficult for solo travellers to find immediate medical assistance in case of an emergency. The country’s limited tourism infrastructure also means that travellers might struggle to navigate safely and easily, leading to an increased risk of encountering unforeseen challenges.

Solo Travel Risk in Other Countries

Several other countries are also considered risky for solo travel, including Colombia, Bolivia, Jamaica, and Ecuador, which all appear on the high-risk list. These destinations face various challenges such as high crime rates, unsafe streets at night, and concerns about healthcare access. While these countries are home to beautiful landscapes and rich cultures, they require extra caution for those travelling alone. Colombia and Jamaica, in particular, have been highlighted for their high levels of violent crime, which are a major deterrent for solo travellers.

The 10 Most Dangerous Countries for Solo Travellers

Here are the top 10 most dangerous countries for solo travellers in 2026, as per the risk index:

1. Venezuela – Danger score: 9.74
2. Peru – Danger score: 8.87
3. Gabon – Danger score: 8.51
4. Colombia – Danger score: 8.38
5. Bolivia – Danger score: 8.37
6. Jamaica – Danger score: 8.27
7. Guyana – Danger score: 8.21
8. Ecuador – Danger score: 8.12
9. Trinidad and Tobago – Danger score: 8.11
10. South Africa – Danger score: 8.04

Each of these destinations presents its own set of risks, whether it’s violent crime, lack of infrastructure, or insufficient healthcare access. Solo travellers are advised to carefully assess the safety and resources available before embarking on a trip to these locations.

San Marino: The Safest Country for Solo Travellers

In contrast to these high-risk destinations, San Marino ranks as the safest country for solo travellers, with a remarkably low risk score of 0.78. The country offers a secure environment, with high safety perceptions among locals and excellent healthcare infrastructure. Nearly 90% of residents feel safe walking alone at night, and the country’s overall safety index places it at the top of the rankings for solo travellers.

Other Low-Risk Countries for Solo Travel

Alongside San Marino, there are several other low-risk countries that provide a safe and welcoming environment for solo travellers. These include:

• Andorra – Risk index: 1.33
• Singapore – Risk index: 1.56
• Austria – Risk index: 1.74
• Czech Republic – Risk index: 1.77
• Qatar – Risk index: 1.84
• Estonia – Risk index: 1.84
• Brunei – Risk index: 1.85
• Denmark – Risk index: 1.90
• Slovenia – Risk index: 1.92

These destinations offer peace of mind for solo travellers, with reliable infrastructure, low crime rates, and excellent healthcare systems. Countries like Singapore and Andorra have earned global recognition for their safety and quality of life, making them ideal choices for those looking to travel solo with minimal risk.

Safety Tips for Solo Travellers

Regardless of the destination, solo travellers can reduce their risk by taking some simple precautions. First and foremost, always stay informed about the safety situation in the country you’re visiting by checking official government travel advisories. Ensure that you have access to emergency contact numbers and know where the nearest healthcare facilities are. Additionally, it’s a good idea to stay in well-populated areas, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables secure.

Stay Safe and Informed

When planning a solo trip, safety should always be a top priority. While some countries like Venezuela, Peru, and Gabon pose significant risks for solo travellers, others like San Marino and Singapore offer a much safer experience. By staying informed about the latest travel advisories and understanding the risks associated with different destinations, solo travellers can enjoy their adventures with confidence and peace of mind.