/ The Himalayas are Calling
3. I don’t have anyone to go with.
As a longtime solo-traveler, I always have to take a step back to accept that not all of my friends and family are willing to jet set on an adventure alone. I started traveling by myself because none of my friends had schedules which matched or wanted to go where I did. That being said, I get it: what do you do with all that time by yourself? And, isn’t it dangerous, especially if you’re a solo female traveler?
Meet companions on the trail.
I normally arrive at destinations alone, but I’m never alone on the trail unless I choose to be.
If you don’t want to be alone on the trail, you won’t be. You can join a group of trekkers before you hit the trail or you’ll meet people on the trail. A good place to start your searching for fellow trekkers is Lonely Planet’s Thorn Tree forum or Trekking Partners.
In addition, you can opt to hire a guide privately or through an agency. A guide will provide company on the trek as well as help you navigate the cultural differences. A guide can also help you locate more travel companions. The benefits of taking an individual guide is that you know exactly who you are going to be spending the next few days to weeks with. This is especially important if you’re going solo.
Additionally, many agencies offer guided group treks leaving on set dates which solo travelers can join. While this may be the easier option in terms of logistics, it can be hit-or-miss. For instance, my first trek was composed of a guide and four trekkers I’d met online. We were friendly when we first met the day before the trek. By the end of 20 days on the trail, not all of us were friends or even friendly.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to talk to the locals. Even if you have a language barrier, willingness to communicate underlies all successful communication. After a short day on the trail, I decided to explore the village we were staying in before sundown. On the trail just outside of town, I ran into a kind Nepali lady who spoke no English. She set down her basket and, using hand gestures, she gave me directions to a swimming hole nearby.
Don’t worry, it’s pretty safe for a solo traveler.
As a solo female traveler, I never felt unsafe. The Nepali people you meet on the trail will, for the large part, be very respectful. However, as always, be cautious when traveling alone, especially in the mountains. Even if you arrive in Nepal alone, it’s good to walk with fellow trekkers on the trail. This way, you’ll have people to support you if you are sick or unmotivated to continue.
Verdict: Flying solo is a great opportunity to meet friends.
The scariest first step is choosing to fly solo. However, once you do, you’ll join the multitude of others who are also doing the same. You will never be alone on the trail if you choose to not be alone.
