Is Philippines safe for solo female travelers?

The Philippines can be a captivating destination for solo female travelers with its incredible landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm people. However, safety is a mixed bag here. In general, the locals are hospitable and respectful to female travelers. Major cities and tourist spots are policed and quite safe. However, occasional reports of street harassment, pickpocketing, and scammed can occur. Off-the-beaten-path and remote areas may pose additional risks due to less police presence and medical facilities. It's advisable to avoid travel in the southern province of Mindanao due to unrest and potential terrorist threats. Always be aware of your surroundings, follow local norms, and secure your belongings. The country is generally safe with appropriate caution.

Safety rating

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How safe is Philippines for solo female travelers?

Travel safety index

4.2 /5

based on 33 experiences from female travelers

Palawan, Family travel

The culture is really different from my country. The housses are made with the things they had nearby but not with bricks. They don't care about animal, dogs are everywhere no leash and they are like trophies, I won't even talk about zoo and "farms". But even after all of this (and that's just a little part) it is beautiful landscape and beaches, so cheap when you don't go to tourist trap. I went to Puerto Princessa and Port Barton both in Palawan Island and loved it. I don't think I will come back one day but it was a thing to do, a whole other experience.

Posted: August 21, 2025Experienced: July, 2025
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Mitee

Mitee

India

Philippines, Solo travel

There are a lot of things to look at, especially the beaches. The water is clear and blue. And Mall of Asia is also there which is huge with a lots of shops and activities. There is a Venice mall too.

Posted: August 16, 2025Experienced: March, 2025
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Philippines, Solo travel

I’ve been in the Philippines as an intern in English school in Cebu. There are numerous schools like this with many Asian students of all ages. So, I lived in the dormitory. I felt unsafe in the streets because the Philippines is kinda criminal country and you may be robbed by a local guy in broad daylight. But I’m Russian crazy girl and often walked alone 😅 This country is really beautiful and expenses are very low. If you have company, I advise you to visit the Philippines. Or, you may go study alone like me)

Posted: July 31, 2025
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Nicole

Nicole

Philippines

Cebu City, Solo travel

Fairly safe because I went to an urban area. Fewer people and less traffic when you go in the middle of the day between 10 am to 2 pm. I stayed at an air bnb in Lapulapu area and it was 1,500 per night. It has a pool area and for the transportation, you can get by with grab taxi, a jeepney or when you're feeling brave like me, I use Mototaxi (motorcycle 🏍️) to get by places. So much faster and affordable. But you can rent a car too if you know how to drive which unfortunately am not. So far, lots of good restaurants everywhere and good food to eat in places like SM and Ayala.

Posted: July 29, 2025Experienced: June, 2025
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How safe is Philippines for women?

Local safety index

3.8 /5

Based on 67 local experiences

Local crime index

2.6 /5

Based on 67 local experiences

Downtown

every place is 50% safe and dangerous at the same time. Its about how you prioritize your safety and if it's your last time in this world. downtown is like a rundown place i guess wires everywhere bad people also as well a good people

Posted: November 30, 2025
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Ashley

Ashley

Taguig

High-end areas like BGC are very safe to walk at night as a female solo traveler but that doesn't mean you shouldn't be cautious. No matter how safe a neighborhood here is, there can still be unlucky instances of snatching. But from my years of living here I'd say I feel confident walking alone at night as a young woman compared to any other place in the country.

Posted: November 21, 2025
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Michelle

Michelle

Kapitolyo

I can walk around the area even in the wee hours of the morning. It’s gated and few people/cars reach the area once they close the gates by 10 pm. They then open at 5 am. Safe and peaceful! You can sleep well at night without noise.

Posted: November 9, 2025
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Aly

Aly

Cebu

So far, it has been safe for me. but i've seen on the news the crimes around here. Especially at night. it's safe to go in groups or have 1 male with you. being alone in Cebu at night is moderate to high risk. but in the morning, it's all good. just avoid Downtown or the place where those street people are.

Posted: September 14, 2025
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Safety in Philippines

Hospitality Exchange in Philippines

Anjo

Anjo

Quezon City

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello! I am an activist based in QC. I enjoy trivia and am a huge Tolkien fan! I would always love new recommendations - be it books, movies, songs, or recipes. 🍉

Speaking

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Sharmaine

Sharmaine

Angeles

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello, travellers! I explored 14 of 18 regions in my home country. If you need info and tips in exploring the Philippines, just ask me out. Nearest airport to me is Clark (2-3 hrs from Manila) and it is also a recommended gateway to Cebu and Palawan, so you'll skip the hectic capital. Am available on weekends. Let me know if you need travel buddy 👣 I am into culture, history, and nature as a social science teacher and environment advocate / youth leader. In my travels, I also allocate language / culture exchange and volunteer opportunities. I like to hike and the outdoors; I scaled the highest mountain in the Philippines in November 2023. I am doing solo travel once in a while and I am completing my Southeast Asia trip, hopefully in 2025. Dream destination is Machu Picchu 😊

Speaking

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Expats in Philippines

Anjo

Anjo

Quezon City

About me

Hello! I am an activist based in QC. I enjoy trivia and am a huge Tolkien fan! I would always love new recommendations - be it books, movies, songs, or recipes. 🍉

Speaking

Nicole

Nicole

Cebu

About me

Hi, I'm Nicole but my friends call me Nics. Im a nurse and I live in Cebu. On my day offs, I usually go solo travel somewhere just to unwind and have fun. I go hike or try new restaurants and fun activities. I'd like to be friends with you if you have the same interests as I do! I wanna be friends with everybody!! 🍀

Speaking