Is Goa Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Goa is a heavily visited tourist destination, setting certain safety standards. In tourist areas and popular spots, safety is generally maintained, and police presence is visible. However, local customs should be respected to avoid unwanted attention, and it's always advisable to avoid isolated areas, especially after dark. Precautions such as pre-booking safe and reliable transportation and staying in well-reviewed accommodations are recommended. As with any destination, keeping personal belongings secure and not accepting drinks from strangers can further enhance safety.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Moderate

Goa is generally considered a safer destination for solo female travelers compared to some other parts of the country. However, it's important to take precautions if you're out alone at night. Stick to more populated areas and take well-lit, main roads. It's always advisable to hire a reliable cab service instead of walking alone at night. Stay alert, be mindful of your belongings, and trust your instincts as you would in any foreign destination.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Goa can be quite reliable with its network of government-run buses and private taxis. However, as a solo female traveler, it's advisable to be more cautious, especially during late hours. Unauthorized taxis can pose risks so always opt for pre-booked cabs from reputable companies or use the popular app-based services. Buses linking the major towns are safe during the day, but can be crowded, so maintaining personal space can be challenging at times. It's generally safe, but always helpful to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Street harassment:Low

Goa has a considerably higher number of tourists, including solo female travelers, compared to other parts of India. While it is generally considered safer for women, it is not completely devoid of cases of street harassment. It's always helpful to be vigilant especially during late hours or in isolated places. Take basic precautions such as dressing modestly and staying in crowded, well-lit areas.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching exist, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots in Goa, but it is not rampant. As a solo female traveler, it is recommended to remain vigil and cautious at all times and avoid isolated places at night.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Goa may not be consistently safe to drink. Although some local residents do drink it, it's generally not recommended for tourists due to different sanitation standards and the risk of water-borne diseases. It's advisable to stick to bottled or purified water to avoid any potential health issues.

Is Goa safe to travel?

4.1 /5

Based on 6 experiences

Solo travel experience

I stayed at Casa Jaali which was cheap and lovely. Great service and I felt very safe. It was decorated really well and in a quieter part of Goa. I’d highly recommend it. There are lots of yoga classes and restaurants/bars within walking distance. The restaurant at the hotel is also great and they regularly have entertainment.

Posted: April 11, 2024
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Jaya

Jaya (48)

India

Family travel experience

Yes Goa is safe . You can enjoy the food and the vibes of the place . We had been to North Goa where 'susegad ' is real ... The weather was awesome with the rains and the sea was inviting and clean ..

Posted: March 6, 2024Experienced: February, 2024
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Solo travel experience

I spent 5 days in North Goa between Ashwem and Mandrem beaches. It was a wonderful area, I felt very safe there. I moved around on a scooter everywhere without any problems. I reached the hotel from the airport by taxi at a fixed price. I loved morning yoga, beautiful beaches and lots of greenery.

Posted: August 27, 2023
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Is Goa safe for women?

Goa, if you visit the right places is beautiful! One just needs to be alert as they should in all countries! Come during the shoulder season June to October for the best experience. Goa does get a lot of rowdy Indian tourist who aren’t the nicest people and the locals do not like them either.

Posted: April 23, 2024
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Is Goa safe right now?

Before your visit to Goa, it's essential to check travel advisories for India, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States government advises exercising increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: June 23, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in India due to the threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 17, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises to exercise a high degree of caution overall in India, due to threats of terrorism, crime, and risks of civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 4, 2024

Is Goa worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 6 experiences

Group travel experience

It was a fantastic experience in Goa with my group. It was my second time visiting Goa. We explored two pubs, visited four beaches, and enjoyed water sports. The food experience near the beach area was wonderful, and we also indulged in some shopping.

Posted: January 30, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Honestly best traveling experience ever This was my first time traveling solo and I met wonderful people made new friends, explored new cultures and I loved it. My journey was full of new experiences, music, dancing, mingling, playing around, trying new things, creating, and so much more.

Posted: January 28, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Goa

Meet local women in Goa who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Valerie

Valerie

About Me

I love the rising and setting sun, from the crescent to the full moon, star gazing on an adventure night! I love the simplicity in things. Travelling, new cultures and local cuisines excite me!

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Sruti

Sruti

About Me

Hello, I'm sruti. I live in a beautiful area in the state of Goa in India surrounded by soft chirping birds and lots of green cover. I am traveling to Turkey, Armenia and Georgia in the month of Sept-Oct and looking to meet like minded people. I love cooking, dancing and discovering the history of places I visit.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Goa

Stay with local women in Goa who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Sruti

Sruti

Goa

Can host for:

4 days

About me

Hello, I'm sruti. I live in a beautiful area in the state of Goa in India surrounded by soft chirping birds and lots of green cover. I am traveling to Turkey, Armenia and Georgia in the month of Sept-Oct and looking to meet like minded people. I love cooking, dancing and discovering the history of places I visit.

Speaking

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Sruti

Sruti

Goa

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello, I’m sruti. I enjoy long walks and meeting the local people wherever I go. I grew up in and have lived most of my life in India. Would love to get to know more about your culture and values and aspirations.

Speaking

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Safety in India