Women’s Day South Africa: Female Travel Trends


This Women’s Day, Expat Explore is celebrating the bold, curious, and inspiring South African women who are leading the way in travel! South African female travellers are redefining travel trends and what it means to explore the world. With a focus on adventure, sustainability, and a passion for meaningful experiences, more women than ever are turning their travel dreams into reality.

So, what trends are shaping female travel habits? And what are the trending destinations for female travellers? Let’s take a look at the destinations and travel styles inspiring South African women to pack their bags and go.

Female travel trends for South African explorers

Bravecations & Heritage Travel

“Bravecations” are the latest trends shaking up the travel world. They’re all about bold, adrenaline-pumping adventures that push you out of your comfort zone. These explorers are zip-lining through tropical forests, hiking ancient trails, or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. For these fearless travellers, adventure is the destination.

While many women travellers are out there chasing thrills, others are tracing their roots. Heritage travel is all about exploring cultural and ancestral connections. By diving into family history and uncovering stories from the past, travellers gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their identity, and where they come from.

Machu Picchu, Peru, travel trends
Take a hike up Machu Picchu for a “bravecation”!

Slow Travel & Cultural Immersion

Forget rushed itineraries and overcrowded landmarks. Slow travel is all about soaking up a destination’s soul. South African women are choosing to travel slower, deeper, and with more intention.

From cooking classes in small-town kitchens to artisans’ workshops in tucked-away villages, these experiences offer genuine insight into local life and culture. Travellers are left with deeper connections, lasting memories, and travel that leaves a positive footprint.

cultural immersion, cooking in Vietnam
Immerse yourself in unique culinary and cultural traditions.

Sustainable Adventures

As sustainability becomes a global priority, female travellers are leading the shift toward more ethical adventures. Female travellers carefully consider the environmental impact of their trips, and many prioritise eco-certified accommodation and ethical experiences, and sustainable dining options.

South African women are also behind the rise in wellness travel, choosing holidays that rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit. Wellness holiday packages like yoga retreats and guided hiking tours offer a reset from fast-paced, everyday life. 

Yoga retreat, travel trends
Yoga and wellness retreats are one of the top travel trends among South African female travellers.

Solo Travel & Group Tours

Solo travel is no longer a bold exception, it’s the norm for many South African women. But going solo doesn’t have to mean going it alone. Group tours are becoming the go-to way to travel: combining freedom with connection, safety with spontaneity.

With experienced tour leaders, pre-selected accommodations, and local expertise, group travel offers peace of mind, especially in unfamiliar destinations. There’s also no need to navigate tricky transport or language barriers. Group tours turn strangers into friends, and provide the perfect balance between curated activities and free time to explore as you wish.

Group travel with Expat Explore
Group travel makes everything easier – and more fun!

Trending destinations for female travellers in South Africa

Morocco

From the bustling souks of Marrakesh and the blue alleyways of Chefchaouen to the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers an unforgettable adventure. For South African women seeking bravecations, Morocco offers the chance to push your boundaries while still feeling secure.

Joining a Morocco guided group tour is one of the best ways to explore this fascinating country. Pre-planned logistics (like transport, accommodation and entry fees) take the stress out of navigating busy streets or rural landscapes. Plus, South African passport holders don’t require a visa for stays up to 90 days, making spontaneous adventures easier to plan!

Chefchaouen, Morocco group tours
Get lost in the blue alleyways of Chefchaouen.

Italy

Imagine sipping espresso in a Roman piazza, taking a cooking class in Tuscany or swimming in the Mediterranean Sea. Foodies will love Italy’s regional dishes and culinary traditions. While art and history aficionados will be in awe of the Colosseum, the Vatican, or Michelangelo’s David.

Italy consistently ranks as one of the most solo-friendly destinations in Europe, especially for women. Cities like Florence, Rome, Venice and Bologna are safe, walkable, and packed with activities and day trips. While the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and Sicily offer some of the world’s dreamiest coastlines and beaches.

Aperol Spritz, Venice, Italy
What could be better than sipping Aperol Spritz in Venice?

Portugal

Portugal serves up unforgettable experiences in every corner. From spectacular beaches and rolling wine valleys to colourful, artsy cities and historic towns. Considered one of the safest countries in the world, Portugal is an excellent destination for solo female travellers. Locals are friendly and English is widely spoken. Women can tour charming cities like Lisbon, Porto and Faro with confidence and ease. 

With a large Portuguese-South African community, South African travellers are familiar with many Portuguese dishes and are drawn to local cuisine. Portuguese wine, especially the famous Port wine, is absolutely worth exploring and a visit to the lush Douro Valley is highly recommended!

Lisbon, Portugal
Explore the carefree, colourful streets of Lisbon!

Scandinavia & the Baltics

Scandinavian countries consistently rank among the safest and happiest in the world, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on gender equality. Cities like Helsinki, Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen are well-organised, walkable, and welcoming. The Baltic nations (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) are lesser-known but becoming increasingly popular among female travellers looking for something off the typical tourist trail. 

Expect picture-perfect landscapes around every corner. From Norwegian fjords, snowy mountains, and pristine lakes to fairytale forests and seaside villages. Scandinavia is home to eco-conscious cities and beautifully designed spaces which offer a slower, more thoughtful approach to everyday life. Visit the Baltics to step into centuries of history complete with medieval castles, UNESCO-listed Old Towns and rich folklore. 

Bergen, Norway, Scandinavia
Experience the charm of Scandinavian cities like Bergen.

This Women’s Day, follow your adventurous heart and start planning that trip you’ve always dreamed of taking! Whether you’re chasing your roots, crossing borders alone, or craving connection and adventure, now’s your time to explore. 


With expertly-planned tours, bucket-list destinations, and locals leading the way, Expat Explore makes travel possible. Have a look at our upcoming tours to start planning the adventure of a lifetime!

,