
Traveling solo is an empowering and enriching experience, and there’s no better time than September to embark on your adventure. With summer crowds beginning to wane and off-peak prices kicking in, solo travel in September provides the perfect opportunity to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations with peace and tranquility. From vibrant cities to serene natural landscapes, September offers solo travelers a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
This article highlights 10 ideal solo travel destinations for September, offering a mix of adventure-packed locations and peaceful retreats. Whether you’re seeking a cultural journey or craving a bit of solo time in nature, these destinations cater to every traveler’s preferences. Let’s explore where your next solo travel adventure should be this September!
Below, you’ll find the best places for solo travelers to visit in September, with tips on how to make the most of your journey and why these solo travel locations are ideal for this time of year.
1. Kyoto, Japan: A Cultural Solo Adventure

Best Time to Visit
September is an excellent time to visit Kyoto, as the summer heat fades and autumn starts to paint the city with vibrant hues. Fewer tourists and lower humidity levels make it a peaceful retreat for solo travelers who want to experience Japan’s cultural heart.
Cultural Exploration
Kyoto is home to over 2,000 temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses, making it a cultural paradise. Visiting places like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or Fushimi Inari Shrine allows solo travelers to immerse themselves in centuries-old traditions. Exploring these sites without a guide enables you to move at your own pace and reflect on the spiritual essence of each location.
Best Solo Travel Ideas
Solo travelers can take advantage of Kyoto’s efficient public transport system, which is ideal for navigating the city. Joining a traditional tea ceremony, wandering through Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, or taking a mindful stroll through Gion district for a glimpse of Kyoto’s geisha culture are enriching activities for the solo traveler.
Safety and Comfort for Solo Travelers
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, making Kyoto perfect for solo exploration. As a solo traveler, you can confidently navigate the city by yourself, knowing that safety and hospitality are always a priority in Japan.
2. Lisbon, Portugal: The Perfect Solo Urban Escape

Why September is Ideal
The weather in Lisbon in September is warm but not overwhelming, making it a great time for solo travelers to explore without the summer crowds. Fewer tourists and off-peak prices create a more relaxed environment to enjoy Lisbon’s charm.
What to See and Do
Lisbon is famous for its rich history, colorful architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. Solo travelers can spend days wandering the narrow, cobbled streets, visiting historical landmarks such as the Tower of Belém, or riding the iconic Tram 28. Don’t miss exploring Lisbon’s coastline, where beaches like Praia da Adraga offer the perfect solo retreat.
Solo-Friendly Activities
Lisbon’s local food scene is something solo travelers will love. Dine alone in one of the city’s traditional pastelarias and indulge in pastéis de nata while soaking up the local vibe. Exploring the nearby towns of Sintra and Cascais is another great solo adventure, as both are easily accessible by train from Lisbon.
Solo Travel Safety
Portugal ranks high for solo travel safety, with welcoming locals and well-maintained public transport. Walking the streets of Lisbon is not only safe but also a delightful experience for solo travelers.

3. Banff, Canada: Nature at Its Best for Solo Travelers
September in Banff
Banff National Park is one of the most stunning places on Earth, and September is the perfect time to visit as the summer crowds thin out, leaving the pristine wilderness open for you to explore. Cooler temperatures and the start of fall foliage season make it an ideal solo travel destination for nature lovers.
Outdoor Adventures
Banff is a haven for solo adventurers. From hiking trails like the Sulphur Mountain Trail to canoeing on Lake Louise, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities. September offers great visibility for spotting wildlife such as elk and mountain goats. You can also enjoy the Banff Gondola for sweeping views of the Canadian Rockies.
Solo-Friendly Experiences
Solo travelers will enjoy the tranquility of nature. Staying in cozy lodges or camping under the stars gives you time for self-reflection while being surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The town of Banff also has plenty of solo-friendly dining options and coffee shops to recharge after a day of adventure.
4. Cusco, Peru: Solo Gateway to the Inca Trail
Why Visit Cusco in September
September is the ideal month to visit Cusco for solo travelers, as the weather is pleasant, and it’s outside the high tourist season. The dry season continues in September, making it the perfect time for hiking and exploring without the rain.
Explore the Inca Heritage
Cusco is the gateway to one of the most iconic solo travel experiences in the world: trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Whether you choose to hike solo or join a guided group, this journey offers solo travelers the chance to connect with nature and history in a profound way.
Solo Traveler Tips
Beyond Machu Picchu, there’s plenty for solo travelers to explore in Cusco. The city’s vibrant markets, colorful streets, and historic landmarks like Sacsayhuamán are perfect for independent exploration. Many solo travelers also enjoy the solitude of the Sacred Valley, which can be reached easily from Cusco.
5. The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil: A September Jungle Adventure
An Adventure of a Lifetime
September is an excellent time to explore the Amazon Rainforest as a solo traveler, offering unique opportunities to discover its incredible biodiversity. The weather is cooler, and the dry season allows for better wildlife spotting and hiking conditions.
Why It’s Perfect for Solo Travelers
For those seeking adventure, solo travel in the Amazon offers guided jungle treks, river cruises, and the chance to spot exotic wildlife in their natural habitat. It’s the ideal place for solo travelers who crave adventure in the heart of nature.
Plan Your Trip
To learn more about how to plan your solo trip to the Amazon in September, visit this detailed guide on September Adventures in the Amazon Rainforest for expert tips and recommendations.
6. Hawaii, USA: Surfing and Solo Bliss in September
Perfect Surf Conditions
Hawaii in September offers some of the best solo surfing spots, with warm weather and excellent surf conditions. This tropical paradise is perfect for solo travelers looking to catch some waves or simply unwind on the island’s stunning beaches.
Best Surf Spots
Head to Oahu’s North Shore or Maui for some of the best solo surfing experiences in the world. If you’re new to surfing, there are plenty of solo-friendly surf schools to get you started. September’s quieter beaches make it easier to find space on the waves.
Solo-Friendly Atmosphere
Hawaii’s laid-back vibe is ideal for solo travelers. Whether you’re staying in a beachfront hostel or cozy resort, you’ll find yourself in a welcoming environment. For more information on the best places to surf in September, visit The Best September Surf Spots in Hawaii.
Conclusion

September offers solo travelers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, without the peak-season crowds. From exploring the vibrant streets of Lisbon to finding solitude in the Amazon Rainforest, these destinations cater to a variety of solo travel preferences. With cooler temperatures, affordable prices, and fewer tourists, September is truly the best time for a solo escape.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, seek cultural experiences, or embark on an adventure, these solo travel destinations will provide unforgettable memories that will have you returning for more.