Is Dumaguete City safe for solo female travelers?

Dumaguete City, the city of gentle people, is generally a safe destination for solo female travelers. Locals are well-known for their friendliness and hospitality. The crime rate is relatively low and it is a peaceful city, especially during the daytime. Like any other cities, caution must still be observed specially during late nights and in less populous areas. It's also recommended to respect local customs and dressing modestly is appreciated. Additionally, always inform someone about your whereabouts. This city is walkable and public transportation is reliable. Overall, Dumaguete City offers safety and comfort to solo female travelers.

Safety rating

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

How safe is Dumaguete City?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

Dumaguete is generally considered safe, and locals are typically welcoming towards foreigners. However, it's advisable for everyone, not just women, to be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Standard safety natural precautions should not be neglected. Areas with crowds, like busy market places, should be visited with caution. While it's generally safe to walk alone, ideally avoid dimly lit or empty places late at night. Like anywhere in the world, there may be occasional petty crime or pickpocketing, but this is relatively rare.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Dumaguete City includes buses, jeepneys, and tricycles which are often reliable and safe. Drivers are usually respectful and often helpful. However, due to its popularity, public transportation can be a bit crowded especially during rush hours, but as long as you keep an eye on your belongings and maintain a sensible level of awareness, you should be just fine. One note, though, be prepared for a lack of schedule rigor and journey time can take longer than expected.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Dumaguete City is generally known for its friendly and welcoming locals. While street harassment does happen, it's relatively not a common occurrence. There are usually people around and the city is considered safe and comfortable for solo female travelers. Walking around, even at night, doesn't typically elicit any unwanted attention. However, please remember to always exercise basic personal safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas after dark, not showing expensive belongings, and letting someone know about your plans.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Dumaguete City, while not completely devoid of petty crimes such as pickpocketing or scams, generally has a low occurrence rate. The locals are welcoming and friendly, often looking out for one another. Generally, it is safe to walk around even during night hours, provided one remains vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Nonetheless, it is always recommended to keep your belongings secure and not to display valuable items openly to prevent potential theft.
Tap water:

Tap water:Unsafe

In Dumaguete City, tap water is not typically safe for direct consumption due to potential contamination and impurities. While it might be used for showering and cleaning purposes, it is not recommended for drinking. To stay safe, opt for bottled water or water treated through filtration or boiling where possible.

Is Dumaguete City safe to travel?

Is Dumaguete City safe right now?

Before your visit to Dumaguete City, it's essential to check travel advisories for Philippines, 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.
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises exercising increased caution in the Philippines due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have elevated risks. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 24, 2023
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆ

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises to exercise a high level of caution in the Philippines due to factors such as crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 1, 2024
๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in the Philippines, overall, due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 4, 2024

Safety in Philippines