From Roraima to Jalapão, six travelers from Brazil and around the world show how exploring nature alone can be a life-changing experience
“The feeling can be a bit daunting, but it’s liberating. I know myself better because I allowed myself to meet other people,” said Mariana Sampaio (26), an electrical engineer from Bahia who traveled on her own to Chapada Diamantina and the Amazon. The initial fear existed, but facing it was precisely what turned the journey into a personal milestone.
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For many women, the idea of traveling alone raises concerns about loneliness and safety. However, a growing movement within national ecotourism has been showing—with planning, careful selection of itineraries, and the support of qualified professionals, it is possible to transform solo travel for women into a structured and welcoming experience.
For Women’s Month, PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specializing in adventure tours in Brazil, gathered the stories of six national and international travelers who chose to explore Brazilian nature on their own. Read more below!
Traveling alone doesn’t mean being lonely
One of the myths of traveling alone is loneliness. In practice, many women report the opposite, stating they became more open to making new connections.
When New Zealand ecologist Olivia Bird (24) decided to climb Mount Roraima, she feared she would be the only foreigner in the group. This fear quickly dissipated as she was welcomed by Brazilian female solo travelers and interacted with Indigenous women working on the expedition. “There are other women doing the same. You don’t need to feel alone,” she states.
Besides Olivia, the travelers report how the experiences of hiking, camping, and cultural connection deep within Roraima help create bonds between visitors, guides, and local communities.
👉 Read more: Why Brazil’s remote outdoors are becoming a haven for foreign female travelers
Structure makes a difference for those concerned about safety
The concern with safety in Brazil is real, but the reality of nature destinations is surprising. Biologist Kristina Wagner (44), from Germany, outlined a complete plan before exploring the Amazon and the Pantanal.
“I felt safe the entire time. People were always trying to help me,” she reports. She also highlights that peace of mind came from the decision to travel with experienced operators and local guides who know the routes, protocols, and regional dynamics.
This is also reinforced by Samantha Sage (34), from the US, who visited Jalapão and the Amazon. “The guides can really make or break the trip, and mine made all the difference. Besides that, traveling alone helped me have even more confidence in my own personality.”
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👉 Read more: Women in ecotourism: female presence that makes things happen
Nature as a well-deserved break, with no age limits
For marketing manager Andreia Yamasaki (35), from São Paulo, immersing herself in nature is a necessity for self-care and mental health amidst the stress of her daily routine. “It’s a breath of fresh air, and I won’t deprive myself from going somewhere I want just because I don’t have company,” she asserts.
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The search for this break knows no age limit. Dutch psychotherapist Katharina Bongaertz (60) is PlanetaEXO’s most frequent traveler. After raising her children and building a successful career, she found a new chapter for her passion for traveling in Brazil. Alongside the Yanomami people, she climbed Pico da Neblina, the highest peak in the country. “It’s important to challenge yourself, find new borders on all levels, and pass them.”
👉 Read more: Women over 50 break stereotypes and prove that adventure knows no age
Advice from solo adventurers
- “The 10-Minute Rule” (Andreia): Allow yourself to complain for 10 minutes when facing an unforeseen event. After that, move forward and keep in mind that the unexpected is also part of the experience.
- Move on even if you’re afraid (Mariana): Fear is natural, but it cannot take over. What matters is knowing the difference between real fear and mental paralysis.
- Prioritize structure and local guides (Kristina and Olivia): Choosing operators committed to responsible tourism increases safety and strengthens the local economy. Trust qualified professionals.
- Be open to improvisation (Samantha): The unexpected is part of the experience and often becomes the best stories. Planning is important, but it shouldn’t be an obstacle to experiencing the extraordinary.
👉 Read more: 5 adventure trips for women: safety, nature, and freedom
Solo travel for women at PlanetaEXO
Women traveling alone only worry about enjoying every second of their vacation when exploring nature with PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specializing in adventure tours in Brazil.
Working with the best local operators in different Brazilian destinations, we consider the preferences and needs of each traveler to guarantee their safety, comfort, and authentic experiences. Contact us now!
