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Puerto Vallarta

Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Puerto Vallarta is moderately safe for solo female travelers. The city is tourist-friendly with warm locals and an active police presence, especially in popular areas. Being vigilant, avoiding isolated areas at night, and being mindful of personal belongings can further ensure safety. Street harassment is rarely reported but often of a nonviolent nature. Use trusted transportation companies and avoid flashing valuables to prevent petty theft. Always keep a contact in case of emergency.

Puerto Vallarta is currently ranked #16 safest place in Mexico for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

Safety rating

3.7 /5

Based on 3 travel experiences

4.2 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Puerto Vallarta?

Safety at night:Moderate

While Puerto Vallarta is widely accepted as a safe destination for solo female travelers, exercising routine precautions is advisable, particularly after dark. It is a tourist-friendly city, but like in any major city, there can be areas that aren't recommended for foreigners to walk at night alone. Utilizing verified cab services or walking with a companion at night is recommended to ensure safety.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Puerto Vallarta is generally safe and reliable, particularly during the day. The city buses and taxis are the most commonly used by locals and tourists alike. Many routes will take you to popular tourist spots. Always keep an eye on your belongings to avoid petty thefts and pickpocketing, particularly during peak hours. The majority of drivers are friendly and helpful, if you ask for assistance or directions they will generally provide it. At night, it's recommended to take taxis directly from your hotel or restaurant to ensure safety.

Street harassment:Low

In Puerto Vallarta, you may experience occasional attention due to being a foreigner but it is rarely intense or aggressive. It's predominantly a tourist-friendly locale where local residents are generally respectful. However, you should always stay alert and follow the common safety measures during your travels.

Petty crimes:Low

Puerto Vallarta is generally considered a safe destination in Mexico for solo female travelers and has a relatively low risk of petty crimes such as pickpocketing or bag snatching. However, just like anywhere else, you should never let your guard down. Always keep a close eye on your belongings, and try not to display expensive items such as jewelry or tech devices. Be especially cautious in crowded areas and tourist hotspots as these can be targets for opportunistic criminals.

Is Puerto Vallarta safe to travel?

3.7 /5

Based on 3 experiences

Portland_Annie

United States

Solo travel

I traveled to and from PVR alone but stayed with good friends while there. I felt very safe as I was in a private car or in a taxi with my dear friends and we stayed in their condo. It rained for 3 days but it was a great time. The view from their place was amazing. We also took a trip to San Sebastian and to the Botanical Garden. So lovely. Good was great, especially seafood and fresh fruit! And, of course, the margaritas!

Posted: March 7, 2024Experienced: February, 2024

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Christina

United States

Family travel

Traveling to Puerto Vallarta with my family during the summer of 2022 was one of the best experiences I could recommend. There's plenty of activities to try and mostly importantly (for any foodies like me) there's so many different cuisines to eat. After doing some research before going I realized that it's a really safe and welcoming place for the LGBTQIA+ community such as myself. In fact, it's one of the most welcoming places in the world. Outside of spending time with my family I was welcomed into groups of people that were happy to chat and show me some cool places to hang. I would definitely recommend Puerto Vallarta as a family, solo or couple vacation!

Posted: February 14, 2024Experienced: May, 2022

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Solo travel

Amazing city, I felt totally safe, clean, artistically, spiritually, colorfully and openly, with nice boulevards and beaches, friendly people, even the traffic is safe, many taxis and buses.

Posted: April 30, 2023

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Is Puerto Vallarta safe right now?

Before your visit to Puerto Vallarta, 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: September 9, 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

Meet locals in Puerto Vallarta

Meet local women in Puerto Vallarta who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

Gaby

About Me

Hello! Im a 24 year old uni girl studying korean! Im very chill usually quite shy. I love singing and dancing. Quiet afternoons and etheral music playing while doing house chores. I am from the LGBTQ community and I’m wiccana myself. Please come with an open mind as I will also be very open minded.

Speaking

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Fer

About Me

My name is Fernanda I live in Puerto Vallarta but I really love to travel and get to know people. A little introvert but we can have a talk for sure haha I like to go to the gym, watch movies, I enjoy hiking, reading and eating most of the times delicious healthy food. I love the beach

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