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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How safe is Isla Mujeres?

Safety at night:

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:

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:

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:

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.

Is Isla Mujeres worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.1 /5

based on 6 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.1/5

Safety

3.9/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.7/5
Gracie

Gracie

United States

Solo travel

Overall awesome trip! Beach was perfect and some of the best sand and water i’ve ever seen. Food was super yummy and not too expensive if you find the right place. I was able to walk back to my airbnb at night by myself and felt pretty safe.

Posted: September 4, 2024
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Safiye

Safiye

United States

Family travel

I absolutely loved it here! I traveled with my family in 2019 and had the best time. In order to get there, you have to go on a ferry ride which is fun. There were so many amazing restaurants here, and they definitely felt more authentic than in other parts of Quintana Roo. This area is a little more quaint, so if you’re looking for a lot of nightlife you may enjoy Cancun more. There are so many beautiful areas fairly close by (like Isla Contoy), and I was never bored. DM me for recommendations here or in Cozumel!🥰

Posted: June 14, 2024
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Solo travel

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

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
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Solo travel

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
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Solo travel

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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Safety in Mexico