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 index

4.3 /5

Based on 29 experiences

2.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety overview

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.

Tap water:Unsafe

Unfortunately, tap water in Mexico is generally not deemed safe for drinking. It's advised to avoid using tap water for drinking or even brushing teeth in order to reduce the potential risks of water-borne illnesses. It would be much better to rely on bottled or purified water throughout your stay in Mexico.

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Travel experiences

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 29 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.9/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.9/5

Budget-friendly

4.4/5

Solo travel experience

I backpacked solo through Mexico for 2 months in fall 2022. I absolutely enjoyed my trip. I stayed in hostels and made great friends. I mostly ate street food and cheap eats to keep costs low. I celebrated Dia de Muertos in Oaxaca and it couldn’t have been a better choice.

Posted: November 19, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I spent 2 weeks traveling around Mexico solo. Mexico City - Campeche - Merida - Playa Del Carmen. I flew from Mexico City then took the ADO bus between Campeche, Merida, and Playa Del Carmen and had nothing but good experiences. I loved Mexico and can’t wait to return.

Posted: November 5, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

I was in Mexico alone for a month and felt safe. As for being a woman, someone would occasionally approach me, but it was more out of curiosity. Mexicans have a different way of being, and it's worth getting used to the fact that someone might whistle or call out to you from time to time. But it's not dangerous. It's worth knowing Spanish, even at a basic level. I traveled around the Yucatan Peninsula + Mexico City and the surrounding areas, and sometimes I ventured into places that were supposedly not recommended for tourists, but I didn't notice anyone staring at me aggressively. I would gladly go back.

Posted: October 7, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

I don't speak Spanish and didn't do much research prior to going but absolutely adored Mexico. It was super safe everywhere from the Yucatan all the way up to Mexico City and slightly north. Everyone was so lovely, helpful, easygoing, and the food was delicious. The Yucatan was a bit too colonial and Americans everywhere, still enjoyed it. I really loved CDMX and Oaxaca, as well as the Queretaro wine region. I travelled about half the country maybe more and felt so safe and welcome everywhere.

Posted: September 26, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I had an amazing time in Mexico. I was careful but I felt really safe. I was nervous with the stories I heard but nothing bad happened at all. I went to Cancun, Oaxaca, San Cristobal, and Mexico City. The main tip I can give is to avoid tap water at all costs.

Posted: September 20, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I solo traveled to Mexico in March and I can 100% say that I felt completely safe. Hostels are very safe and locals are very friendly. I did Tulum, Bacalar, Playa Del Carmen, and Holbox and I didn’t feel on edge at all.

Posted: September 19, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I traveled solo for a month in Mexico this summer. I knew a little Spanish but not much. It’s very safe and there were lots of European backpackers so I was never the only traveler.

Posted: September 12, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I solo travelled Mexico for five weeks. I went to Mexico City, Tulum, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca and Puebla. It’s my favourite country I’ve ever been to. I met so many girls travelling alone. I speak Spanish which helped a lot.

Posted: August 12, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I was two weeks in Mexico in May. Visited Playa Del Carmen, Cancun, Tulum, Bacalar, Mahahual, and Cozumel. I had a blast and definitely recommend it. I mainly stayed in resorts and boutique hotels and wasn’t out at night (unless I was partying). Overall everything was amazing. Bacalar & Cozumel, are tourist hot spots that are “small” so I was out at night and it was full of people. Cancun I didn’t even bother going at night it’s too big and didn’t feel as safe for me. I was out partying only in small towns or in Playa de Carmen where it’s super full of tourists 24/7 and it’s only 2 streets of clubs. I speak Spanish so that’s also another plus.

Posted: August 12, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

I’ve been to Mexico 3 times as a solo traveler. I never felt unsafe. I took Uber the whole time and was out very late. Also stayed in hostels all 3 times and it’s actually one of my favorite countries.

Posted: August 11, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Local experiences

I lived in Mexico and traveled around a lot on my own. Mexico is not safe, and this is my opinion, but it is possible to travel alone and have a great time. I believe that if you follow basic safety precautions, you'll be fine, and the likelihood of something happening to you will decrease. If you're using public transportation, it's better to go for long-distance ADO lines rather than regular unmarked buses. Be careful with the police; they can also sometimes steal. Keep your eyes open, as someone might be watching you (and you might not be aware of it) and waiting for the right moment to approach you.

Posted: October 31, 2023
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A folclore all way around. Mexico is full of culture and tradition. A must on you pocket list. So many things to see and live over there. People are really kind and will always give you a hand and a smile whenever you need. And food OMG I think is the best in the world, we are not in only tacos!!! Please get close and dive in in the traditional cusine.

Posted: May 16, 2023
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Tams

Tams (20)

Mexico

Mexico City is amazing. If you like City activities such as visit museums, know culture, delicious foods, dance, this city is for you! Mexican people are kind and easygoing. you can go anywhere in metro.

Posted: May 4, 2023
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Meet locals in Mexico

Eugenia

Eugenia

Speaking

About Me

I am a young Mexican girl looking for ways of exploring the world. I like to travel slowly and visit more than just the capital of any country I go to. I really enjoy backpacking, traveling in a simple way.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇩 Andorra, 🇫🇷 France, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇨🇷 Costa Rica, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇵🇹 Portugal

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Alejandra

Alejandra

Speaking

About Me

I’m a 29 years old digital nomad living my last six months in Mexico before going on an adventure again. I’ve been on South America and want to keep traveling more.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇨🇴 Colombia, 🇲🇽 Mexico

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Gaby

Gaby

Speaking

About Me

Hey, My name is Gaby and I'm interested in culture, cycling, food & cuisine, nightlife and swimming

Countries I’ve Visited

🇫🇷 France, 🇧🇪 Belgium, 🇩🇪 Germany

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Stay with locals in Mexico

Alejandra

Alejandra

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

I’m a 29 years old digital nomad living my last six months in Mexico before going on an adventure again. I’ve been on South America and want to keep traveling more.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇨🇴 Colombia, 🇲🇽 Mexico

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Eugenia

Eugenia

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

I am a young Mexican girl looking for ways of exploring the world. I like to travel slowly and visit more than just the capital of any country I go to. I really enjoy backpacking, traveling in a simple way.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇩 Andorra, 🇫🇷 France, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇨🇷 Costa Rica, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇵🇹 Portugal

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Sandra

Sandra

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

I like sharing life and travel experiences. Dancing is the best, so I can go dancing or also talk and enjoy the view. I love the idea of women helping other women during traveling so I hope we can share some time or other experiences.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇨🇴 Colombia, 🇨🇿 Czech Republic, 🇸🇻 El Salvador, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇲🇽 Mexico, 🇵🇾 Paraguay, 🇵🇪 Peru, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇺🇾 Uruguay

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Upcoming visitors to Mexico

Tiffany

Tiffany

Speaking

About Me

🌺🤿🏄‍♀️🌅🐚 🌎 Hey it’s Tiffany. I love traveling the world. #liveamplified AmplifiedNetwork.com

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Necool

Necool

Speaking

About Me

I’m at that moment in my life that I want to see and feel all the versions of myself. I’ve traveled, I owned my own business. I’ve been a general manager for a very long time running hotels or or businesses. I’m social and love to meet people and chat it up. I’m a hopeless, romantic that falls deep in love and can’t unlove who matters but also I am so strong and independent and loves my alone time. Reset my energy and balance out my give and take. I love people who understands that my love language changes as the world changes as I change and how life is a journey filled with self growth, and you’ll never stop learning about yourself or figuring stuff out so just told myself to “Let it Be” & keep going cause life is always beginning another chapter. It’s never too late to try new things and go on adventures and it’s never a bad thing to take time for stability when you need it. Don’t worry so much. Asi la es vida

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇿 Belize, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇩🇰 Denmark, 🇫🇷 France, 🇲🇽 Mexico, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇺🇸 United States

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Local discussions

Solo travelWhat is the best place for a solo traveler to explore and connect with others?

I want to go on my first solo trip. Can anyone recommend place? I was thinking about resort, Punta Cana or Cancun, but as I am traveling alone I would rather have adventure and go on the place that I can explore. It would be also great to connect with group or have tour guide.. does anyone have any suggestions?

Posted: December 1, 2022
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Solo travelWhat are some recommendations for my trip to Mexico City over the holidays?

I’m planning a trip to Mexico City between Christmas and New Year’s. Any recommendations for things to see, places to stay, etc.?

Posted: November 23, 2022
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TravelWhat suggestions do you have for traveling to Mexico City in December?

Hi ladies! I'm traveling to Mexico City in December, and I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions (hotels, things to do/avoid)?

Posted: November 15, 2022
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Solo travelWhat is the best way to do a Mexico trip in January?

I’m planning to do a Mexico trip in January, and am curious about the best way to do it. Is a tour an easier option, or is it quite easy to get around and hostel it?? Any recommendations would greatly appreciated

Posted: October 29, 2022
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Solo travelWhich local tour guide do you suggest for me for my first time traveling alone to Mexico in November?

Hey ladies I am planning to visit Mexico on November , it's my first time to travel alone ..which local tour guide do you suggest for me? and also you can give me any tips :)))

Posted: October 7, 2022
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Safety in Mexico