Is Quito Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, offers diverse experiences. However, safety can be a concern. While most areas are safe during the day, certain neighborhoods can be risky, especially at night. Norm precautions such as avoiding isolated areas, not displaying valuable items openly and using only certified transportation services should be taken. It's recommended to get local advice on safe areas to visit. Despite these concerns, local people are generally friendly and willing to help.

Safety rating

2.8 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.5 /5

Based on 5 experiences from local women

Quito is currently ranked #24 safest place in Ecuador for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 2.8 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Quito?

Safety at night:Unsafe

While Quito is generally recognized as quite safe during the day, it is less safe during the night, especially for a woman traveling alone. There are some areas that are well-lit and heavily policed, such as the tourist areas, but it's advisable for solo female travelers to arrange transportation rather than walking alone, particularly when it's late. Always keep your belongings secure and maintain a high level of vigilance.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Quito is generally reliable and efficient. However, solo female travelers should be aware of their surroundings especially during peak hours as petty theft instances, such as pickpocketing, have been reported. It's also sensible to avoid less crowded buses late at night. Taxis are a good alternative for safer transportation.

Street harassment:Moderate

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, can present a mixed experience when it comes to street harassment. On one hand, the city is relatively safer compared to many places in the world with friendly locals, but there have been reports of occasional catcalling and unsolicited comments, especially in crowded areas. However, this largely depends on the area of the city you are in and the time of day as well. It's always recommended to be cautious, especially during late hours and in less populated areas

Petty crimes:High

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, has a relatively higher rate of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching especially in crowded markets, public transportation and tourist areas. Always stay vigilant and keep personal belongings secure. Avoid flashing expensive items and limit the amount of cash you carry.

Is Quito worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.5 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.7/5

Safety

2.8/5

Food

3.7/5

Budget-friendly

2.9/5

Solo travel

I went to Quito for 9 days alone. I walked around and participated in a group tour to Quilotoa during my stay, but I felt safe walking around all of Quito. I rode the city bus, and also to the markets. I also used a few taxis, everything there was so cheap and I had a great time.

Posted: April 17, 2023

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Solo travel

I spent 4 days in Quito on my own. I was warned about safety a few times, but I was just extra vigilant and had no problems. There was a lot of police and security in popular places. I took a free city walk, which I liked and it helped me to orient myself. I did two day trips from the city to Otavalo and Mindo. I liked Mindo, but Otavalo did not impress me.

Posted: November 20, 2022

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Solo travel

I visited Quito as a solo travelling woman and felt safe. I walked/rode the bus around the entire city and had a wonderful time. If you do not speak Spanish, it might present some challenges, but it is not entirely impossible to cope. I fell in love with Ecuador and really want to return there again. My main advice for other solo travellers would be to use drivers/taxis booked by your accommodation, as I was repeatedly advised not to hail taxis on the street and to take care of my belongings while using public transportation.

Posted: November 5, 2022

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Is Quito safe for women?

Safety index

2.5 /5

Based on 5 local experiences

Crime index

1.7 /5

Based on 5 local experiences

Alicia

Quito is safe as Long as you know where to navigate, since it does have parts of the city that are a little bit more unsafe. I would recommend not to go alone in the dark, and to always be sure of the route you need to take.

Posted: December 26, 2024

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