Is Oaxaca Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Oaxaca is generally safe, with locals typically friendly and welcoming to tourists. As a solo female traveler, it is always essential to take common-sense precautions, such as avoiding deserted areas at night and staying aware of your surroundings. While Oaxaca is safer than other places in Mexico, petty crimes like pickpocketing occasionally happen. Engaging only with certified tour and transport services can minimize risk.

Safety index

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How safe is Oaxaca?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Oaxaca is a relatively safe city, even for solo female travelers. However, as with any destination, extra caution should be taken at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and avoid unlit or sequestered streets. Despite the general safety, occasional street crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching do occur. Making use of a trusted cab service during late hours is preferred over walking alone.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Oaxaca such as buses and taxis is generally reliable and fairly safe. However, like any other city, safety in public transportation can vary depending on the time of day and the specific areas. It's advisable to use reputable taxi companies or order a taxi through a hotel. Major routes and the city center are usually safer, but caution should always be taken especially at night. There have been occasional reports of pickpocketing, so keep your belongings secure at all times.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Oaxaca is generally a safe and welcoming city for solo female travelers. Despite occasional reports of catcalling and some unwanted attention, most locals are respectful and courteous. The experience can vary though, depending on the time of day and the area visited. As always, it is wise to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Oaxaca is generally safe when it comes to petty crimes. Normal precautions should be taken as you would anywhere else. Pickpocketing or bag-snatching can occasionally occur in crowded areas and public transportation. However, these are not widespread issues and usually can be avoided by staying alert and safeguarding your belongings.

Is Oaxaca worth visiting?

Cece

Cece

United States

Solo travel

I went to El Centro and Puerto Escondido. Took cooking class, which I highly recommend and a tour on the first day in each city, because the guide helps you get familiar with the area faster than on your own. This way you can enjoy knowing your way for the rest of your travels. It was very humid and hit in April and May in Puerto Escondido so make sure you have AC unit in your bedroom! 44⁰C every day and 100% humidio. Elcentro was cooler this time of year, and nights were 22⁰C so bring a sweatshirt to stay cozy. No humidity and the fresh markets are fantastic in both cities!

Posted: June 14, 2024Experienced: April, 2023
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Emma

Emma

United States

Group travel

Felt very safe. Would recommend “los Mercados” en el centro. Be careful with some larger markets outside city limits. Salsa dancing is great fun! The street art is beautiful. Use common sense with street food to avoid getting sick. 10/10 would recommend.

Posted: January 7, 2024
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Solo travel

It was a beautiful, transparent city, full of lone travelers. I went on a trip and there were 4 other lone travelers there. It was easy to meet new people. And if you want to spend some time on the beach, it's only a few hours away.

Posted: May 28, 2023
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Is Oaxaca safe right now?

Before your visit to Oaxaca, 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.
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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: October 8, 2024
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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

Sure, here's the redacted and formatted text: The Australian government advises to exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall due to the threat of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 8, 2024

Safety in Mexico