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 180 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.4 /5

Based on 119 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 180 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

4/5

Rocio

Mexico

Mexico City, Group travel

I had amazing time with family and friends, I initially had no idea what Mexico City would be like, but as the time went on I realized on my own terms how incredible the city is. There’s is so much to do and the food is delicious.

Posted: July 14, 2025

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Samantha

United States

Tulum, Solo travel

Tulum was very pricey as it was definitely a tourist town. In order to get onto a beach you had to generally pay to get into any vicinity or buy drinks food at their vicinity to get beach access. You could go to the free beaches but they were full of people & trash. I felt fairly safe but as a woman always stayed diligent. I rode a bicycle all around. There are some cenotes worth checking out for sure!

Posted: June 25, 2025Experienced: March, 2024

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Mexico City, Solo travel

Mexico City is such a beautiful city with many fun things to do and wonderful food! If I had any trouble getting around or getting clarification on something, people were very kind and helpful! I felt mostly safe as a solo traveler, just still on guard as normal, just to be on the safe side. I HIGHLY recommend going to Teotihuacán (it’s about 45 min to an hour outside of Mexico City, worth it!!) to do the hot air balloon ride over the pyramids at sunrise. I’ve also heard Tolantongo is a worthwhile drive as well! I stayed at a hostel inside the city, it was super affordable and they were super friendly and welcoming - for this I used HostelWorld app. Also Didi is like Uber but more local, that came in handy getting around!

Posted: June 23, 2025

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Alena

Russia

Cancún, Solo travel

I had a solo trip to Cancun, Mexico, and I fell in love with this country! I felt very safe and comfortable. Local people are very friendly and nice. I even became friends with my host, and we are staying in touch ever since. I saw Chichen Itza, went scuba diving at Isla Mujeres and just had the best time in my life. Looking forward to go there again!

Posted: May 4, 2025

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Puerto Vallarta, Solo travel

My experience in Puerto Vallarta was not so good I didn't feel safe only in the big squares, there were people smoking weed at a public transport stop where there were children and families, I respect that but there are also places. The food was not as good or a good size I ate sushi in Plaza Caracol and expected more. Public transport is a bad thing if you are a foreigner and you don't have change, the driver does not let you pass. I was mostly in the sea and walking shopping along the boardwalk and there is a variety of prices for different budgets but preferably it is greater than 2000 Mexican pesos.

Posted: May 1, 2025Experienced: April, 2025

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Marah

Mexico

Nuevo Vallarta, Solo travel

My experience was good, I went without expectations and I was surprised although there were times when I felt anxious to get to my destination because of the bad publicity that many taxis have. The food is normal, the atmosphere is very nice and it depends on the budget you have and the searches you make to visit the places that make you feel safe, I stayed for a weekend and had a good time. I recommend not walking alone through the center without information about the places to visit or the best routes to get there. Always ask established locals. And make sure you carry a power bank or enough cards to store your memories.

Posted: May 1, 2025Experienced: April, 2025

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Is Mexico safe for women?

Safety index

3.4 /5

Based on 119 local experiences

Crime index

2.7 /5

Based on 119 local experiences

Teresita

Mexico City

It has its perks, depending on the are you are at. Try not walk with the phone in your hands. If you’re in places like Polanco, Roma, Condesa you’ll find it has a lot of people always. Try not to walk alone or distracted. If you’re using public transportation always have your purse/bag on your front because it’s very easy to get stuff out of it.

Posted: August 1, 2025

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Mexico City

Unfortunately, Mexico City is one of the most dangerous places to live for women. I have experienced sexual harassment a few times in public transportation, that's why I usually travel in the only-women car on the subway. I feel unsafe when returning home in the dark, but my main concern is getting robbed most of the times. Although I recommend visiting the city, you should be cautious and travel accompanied at nighttime ;)

Posted: July 25, 2025

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