Is Mexico Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Mexico has diverse regions that are safe to explore, while others are highly dangerous. Highly touristy places like Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Mexico City are generally safe for solo female travelers. However, the unpredictable criminal activity and drug-related violence in certain regions could pose risks. Exercise common sense, stay vigilant about personal safety, avoid isolated areas, and always keep your belongings close to you. Also, ensure to respect local norms and culture. It's advisable to opt for organized tours or travel in a group while visiting lesser-known regions.

Safety rating

4.3 /5

Based on 185 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.4 /5

Based on 124 experiences from local women

Mexico is currently ranked #64 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.3 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Mexico?

Safety at night:Unsafe

In Mexico, safety at night greatly depends on the specific location. Some areas, particularly in major cities and tourist destinations, can be relatively safe, while others can be riskier due to crime and violence. However, it's advisable to always prioritize safety. Avoid walking alone at night whenever possible, stick to populated, well-lit areas, and use reliable forms of transportation. Always stay alert, be cautious, and get advice from locals or other experienced travelers.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Mexico varies greatly depending on the area and mode of transport. In larger cities, the subway and bus systems can be crowded, but are generally safe during the day, though it's advised to stay alert for pickpockets. In more rural or remote areas, public transport options might be less reliable and less secure, hence a certain level of caution is needed. Taxis, particularly those ordered through reputable companies or apps, are usually a safe choice.

Street harassment:Moderate

In Mexico, street harassment can unfortunately be a common occurrence. While not all parts of the country have the same level of harassment, there are many areas where catcalling, whistling, and unsolicited comments are common, particularly in crowded public places or less tourist-oriented locales. Therefore, it's prudent to stay aware of your surroundings, dress modestly, avoid isolated areas, and avoid being out late at night alone where possible. It is not universally experienced, and respecting local customs and etiquette can often reduce the chances of harassment.

Petty crimes:High

Many areas in Mexico can be known for instances of petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and cellphone theft. These are particularly frequent in crowded places like public transportation, markets, and tourist hot spots. Vigilance and keeping personal belongings secure can minimize the risk.

Is Mexico worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 185 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

4/5

Mérida, Solo travel

I personally loved Merida. It felt perfectly safe during the day and night. Merida, like all of the Yucatán peninsula, is very expensive. It's close to european prices. The city is very touristy and "americanized" with many international restaurants and shops but you can still find good local food. From there, I visited Chichen Itza with a tour, and there are many cool Cenotes you can check out. I definitely recommend you do that.

Posted: August 12, 2025

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Puerto Vallarta, Group travel

I felt safe in the resort areas, but outside of those, generally unsafe. Horseback riding and the beaches were a must- some beaches were not amenable to visit, so do your homework in advance for which ones to visit

Posted: August 11, 2025Experienced: March, 2005

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Pippa

United States

Mexico City, Family travel

I had an incredible experience in Mexico City. It is a massive, bustling, vibrant city with a million things to explore. My family hit the main tourist attractions, including Frida Kahlo’s and Diego Rivera’s houses, Chapultapec Castle, walking around La Condesa and nearby artsy neighborhoods, going to the Zócalo, and going to various markets such as Mercado de la Merced. I ate the best food I have EVER tasted there, and I am not exaggerating. Make sure to eat Tlayudas, and I enjoyed trying fideo seco and in general any tacos I could find. I felt very safe there, but it is good to note that I am from a relatively big city as well, so walking around busier and sometimes more rough and tumble streets felt more natural to me. I had to get used to handling cash and being careful with my belongings especially in crowded areas, but no one in my family was robbed or pickpocketed while there. One thing I will say is that someone did give us change in fake money, which apparently is an issue there. A taxi driver alerted us to it when we tried to pay him, and he told us to be very aware when purchasing things and to check that the money is real. We got around by taxi and uber mostly, and we had no issues. I was greatly improving my Spanish at the time so that helped. Something that was really nice transportation-wise, was we ordered Ubers for day trips and had them wait for us while we explored the destination. For example, we went out to see Teotihuacán (a MUST SEE) and it was really nice to have the security of an Uber waiting for us and a set fare. Also, the driver was really nice and was able to give us a ton of information about the area. Overall an incredible experience and I want to go back!! THE FOOD THE FOOD THE FOOD

Posted: August 9, 2025

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Akumal, Solo travel

I love living here in Akumal, it's a cute little village that is known because there are many turtles here, which I love 🐢 But they are also very focused on respecting nature and the animals that live here.

Posted: August 8, 2025Experienced: August, 2025

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San Cristóbal de las Casas, Solo travel

I would say San Cristobal de las casas was the most underrated city on my trip to Mexico. The central area is super cute you can walk around and it felt very safe even at night. There are tons of restaurants and good cafes and they weren't super expensive. In terms of activities definitely visit Canyon de Sumidero and the nearby villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. In these villages you can learn a lot about Tzotzil Maya culture.

Posted: August 5, 2025

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Is Mexico safe for women?

Safety index

3.4 /5

Based on 124 local experiences

Crime index

2.8 /5

Based on 124 local experiences

Mexico City

Mexico is not the safest place on earth. But if you are carefull it's okay. As a woman you can use public transport without fear thanks to the compartments reserved for women at the front of the transport. Also, you should not show too many signs of wealth.

Posted: August 20, 2025

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