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.

Safety rating

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How safe is Puerto Vallarta for female travelers?

Travel safety index

3.4 /5

based on 7 experiences from female travelers

Group travel

I felt safe in the resort areas, but outside of those, generally unsafe. Horseback riding and the beaches were a must- some beaches were not amenable to visit, so do your homework in advance for which ones to visit

Posted: August 11, 2025Experienced: March, 2005
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Solo travel

My experience in Puerto Vallarta was not so good I didn't feel safe only in the big squares, there were people smoking weed at a public transport stop where there were children and families, I respect that but there are also places. The food was not as good or a good size I ate sushi in Plaza Caracol and expected more. Public transport is a bad thing if you are a foreigner and you don't have change, the driver does not let you pass. I was mostly in the sea and walking shopping along the boardwalk and there is a variety of prices for different budgets but preferably it is greater than 2000 Mexican pesos.

Posted: May 1, 2025Experienced: April, 2025
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Family travel

I LOVEEEE PVR!! It is one of the safest cities I have ever traveled to. The locals are the nicest, most welcoming people. There’s a really big gay male community there so the nightlife is a lot safer as a woman.

Posted: October 21, 2024
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Monica

Monica

United States

Group travel

I definitely felt safe. It was super cute, I strongly advise renting go-karts. ALSO, the airport is far and I never recommend driving yourself to your destination. I highly recommend hiring a car service to pick you up, help with your luggage and drive you to your air bnb.

Posted: September 12, 2024
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Portland_Annie

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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How safe is Puerto Vallarta for women?

Cindy

Cindy

Super safe. Everyone is welcoming and extremely helpful. For a solo traveler I had an amazing time! If you’d like recommendations please send me a message :) I was there 3 nights and four days. I went to Majahuitas island for new years! Such an amazing time. I also went zip lining through the jungle! If you’re looking for. Nice restaurant try Mar y Vino. If you’re looking for seafood try 8 tostadas.

Posted: January 3, 2025
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Safety in Mexico