Is Isla Mujeres Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Isla Mujeres is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. Like anywhere else, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Most locals are very friendly and willing to help. The island is easy to navigate and has a lower crime rate compared to more populous places in Mexico. However, it is still advisable to avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Safe

Isla Mujeres is generally safe at night, as it's a small, tourist-oriented island. The crime rate is relatively low, but like anywhere, it's always important to stay vigilant especially when walking alone. While nightlife is active, streets can be empty, so it's a good idea to stick to areas where there are other people around. Don't flash expensive belongings and try to learn a few phrases in Spanish. Use reputable taxis if necessary.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Isla Mujeres is generally regarded as safe and reliable. The island is small, thus most trips are brief. The most common modes of transportation are taxis and golf carts. Taxis are government regulated, and drivers are typically friendly and helpful. Golf carts are a popular option for tourists to rent and navigate around the island on their own. However, due caution should always be exercised, especially during late hours. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the local rules and customs to ease your travel experience.

Street harassment:Low

Isla Mujeres is known for its open and welcoming atmosphere. As a solo female traveler, this is indeed refreshing. While it is always recommended to stay vigilant and follow all necessary precautions, street harassment has not been a significant issue on this particular island. The locals are primarily friendly and respectful, and the general community can be considered quite safe even for solo travelers. Remember though, experiences may vary and as always, be aware of your surroundings. It's best to respect local customs and behavior.

Petty crimes:Low

Isla Mujeres is generally known to be a safe destination for travelers, and this includes solo female travelers. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or theft, although not completely nonexistent, are relatively rare. As with any location, it is still important to maintain a practical level of alertness and avoid displaying expensive items in public. Securing personal belongings and using hotel safes for important items are also recommended.

Tap water:Unsafe

While tap water in Isla Mujeres is generally purified at the source, the plumbing systems often compromise the water's cleanliness. Consequently, it's not recommended to drink tap water. It's wiser to rely on bottled or purified water whether for drinking or brushing teeth to avoid potential health issues.

Is Isla Mujeres safe to travel?

4 /5

Based on 4 experiences

Solo travel experience

I spent two weeks by myself on the island. I first went to Cancun and took a ferry which took me about 20 minutes to reach Isla mujeres. Cancun didn't appeal to me, it looks like it changed or adapted itself in order to meet the needs of American tourists. Isla mujeres on the other hand is a very magical Island and quite small, but big enough to spend a relaxing two weeks on it. I stayed at Pocna Hostel because it was recommended to me. Mind you I'm not a hostel fan due to previous experiences. :) But this place was different and I even returned to another occasion. I stayed in a six bedroom room. It was clean and had more of a community feeling to it. You can take classes there in languages or yoga or dance. they had their own private beach. you could chill out in the dining area where they would also play music in the evenings or play games. They're also sometimes parties at night and everybody and everything felt really free : you could participate if you wanted to or not. The audience was widely mixed and very International, age wise also mixed. The island itself is beautiful you can swim with dolphins, snorkel or do a catamaran tour. I also visited Playa del Carmen, Cozumel and Tulum. At any given time I felt safe, the food was great, I liked the down to earth local feeling to it. But it's like anywhere else in the world you always watch your wallet or your cell phone.

Posted: December 25, 2023Experienced: November, 2016
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Solo travel experience

I can't recommend Isla Mujeres enough. Good vibes, delicious food, friendly people and low prices. I also felt very, very safe. It's a small island, and golf carts and taxis are mainly dominating the roads, but I absolutely loved it there.

Posted: May 21, 2023
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Is Isla Mujeres safe right now?

Before your visit to Isla Mujeres, it's essential to check travel advisories for Mexico, 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.
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Mexico, due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 15, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Mexico overall, due to the threat of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 5, 2024

Is Isla Mujeres worth visiting?

Overall rating

4 /5

based on 4 experiences

Solo travel experience

Isla was so beautiful and local. I didn’t want to be in Cancun. It’s too touristy for me. The island can be explored with golf carts. There are several beaches. The food is delicious. Overall a great experience.

Posted: July 10, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Isla Mujeres is one of my absolute favorite places. It is a small island off the coast of Cancun. I felt at home there for the entire stay. It's so beautiful, fun and relaxing. I can't wait to go back.

Posted: May 22, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Safety in Mexico