Is Riohacha Safe for Solo Female Travelers? Safety Index and Reviews

While Riohacha carries an allure with its beautiful beaches and indigenous culture, safety varies. It is essential to stay vigilant at all times due to occasional petty crime incidents and avoid travelling at night or venturing into less populated areas alone. However, locals are generally friendly and the city is relatively secure during the day. As always, standard precautions are advisable: keep belongings close, avoid flaunting expensive items, and prioritize staying in reputable accommodations.

2.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety at night:Unsafe

Riohacha has its unique charms but it's generally not advisable for solo female travelers to walk alone at night. While there may be safe neighborhoods and zones, others can be more risky particularly after dark. Always consider taking a taxi or Uber, especially when moving around at night. As with any city, safety can greatly depend on the area and circumstances so it’s always best to avoid appearing as an easy target. Exercise caution, remain observant to your surroundings and follow local advisories for the safest travel experience.

Public transportation: Moderate

Public transportation in Riohacha is quite stable, most of the time. From official buses to taxis, they generally provide satisfactory services. Always remain vigilant and aware of your belongings, as petty theft can occasionally happen. Consider busier times often deemed safer due to more public presence. Taking taxis at night is highly recommended over walking.

Street harassment: Moderate

As a solo female traveler in Riohacha, you should remain cautious. Like in many places, harassment can occur and it is not unusual to receive unsolicited attention or comments especially in public spaces. However, these incidents are not typically severe and can be mitigated by maintaining an assertive demeanour, avoiding eye contact with strangers and dressing modestly. As always, stick to the busier streets and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.

Petty crimes:Moderate

As a solo female traveler, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can be relatively common in crowded places like markets, bus stations, or beaches in Riohacha. Always keep your personal belongings close by and be mindful of your surroundings. However, most of these crimes are opportunistic and taking precautionary steps can significantly reduce the risk.

Tap water:Unsafe

In Riohacha, it's generally not recommended to drink directly from the tap. Even though many locals do it safely, visitors might experience gastrointestinal issues due to unfamiliar microbes in the water. It is safer to buy bottled water or to use filtration systems or purification tablets.