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Mexico

Mexico has diverse regions that are safe to explore, while others are highly dangerous. Highly touristy places like Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Mexico City are generally safe for solo female travelers. However, the unpredictable criminal activity and drug-related violence in certain regions could pose risks. Exercise common sense, stay vigilant about personal safety, avoid isolated areas, and always keep your belongings close to you. Also, ensure to respect local norms and culture. It's advisable to opt for organized tours or travel in a group while visiting lesser-known regions.

Mexico is currently ranked #82 safest country for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

4.2 /5

Based on 33 travel experiences

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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Safety at night:Unsafe

In Mexico, safety at night greatly depends on the specific location. Some areas, particularly in major cities and tourist destinations, can be relatively safe, while others can be riskier due to crime and violence. However, it's advisable to always prioritize safety. Avoid walking alone at night whenever possible, stick to populated, well-lit areas, and use reliable forms of transportation. Always stay alert, be cautious, and get advice from locals or other experienced travelers.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Mexico varies greatly depending on the area and mode of transport. In larger cities, the subway and bus systems can be crowded, but are generally safe during the day, though it's advised to stay alert for pickpockets. In more rural or remote areas, public transport options might be less reliable and less secure, hence a certain level of caution is needed. Taxis, particularly those ordered through reputable companies or apps, are usually a safe choice.

Street harassment:Moderate

In Mexico, street harassment can unfortunately be a common occurrence. While not all parts of the country have the same level of harassment, there are many areas where catcalling, whistling, and unsolicited comments are common, particularly in crowded public places or less tourist-oriented locales. Therefore, it's prudent to stay aware of your surroundings, dress modestly, avoid isolated areas, and avoid being out late at night alone where possible. It is not universally experienced, and respecting local customs and etiquette can often reduce the chances of harassment.

Petty crimes:High

Many areas in Mexico can be known for instances of petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and cellphone theft. These are particularly frequent in crowded places like public transportation, markets, and tourist hot spots. Vigilance and keeping personal belongings secure can minimize the risk.

Tap water:Unsafe

Unfortunately, tap water in Mexico is generally not deemed safe for drinking. It's advised to avoid using tap water for drinking or even brushing teeth in order to reduce the potential risks of water-borne illnesses. It would be much better to rely on bottled or purified water throughout your stay in Mexico.

4.2 /5

Based on 33 experiences

Solo travel experience

Mexico was amazing. It was my first solo trip and I was in an all-inclusive resort, so I felt extremely safe and everyone was so nice. I took two excursion to Chichen Itza and Isla mujeres. I really enjoyed my experience. I can't wait to come back to Mexico to visit more.

Posted: February 10, 2024

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Solo travel experience

I have been on a 2-week trip in Mexico, mostly Chiapas and Mexico City. Loved it and felt very safe as a solo female traveler, with so many nice and wonderful people.

Posted: February 7, 2024

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Family travel experience

I felt safe, although we had one encounter where someone stopped us on our way and we had to pay. Recommendations are Holbox, Punta allen, Valladolid. The food was moderate, I expected more. We hired a car and drove through Yucatan & Chiapas which was a really nice experience. The nature was stunning

Posted: February 3, 2024

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Solo travel experience

Mexico is a wonderful place to travel. It's modern and ancient, sophisticated and humble, colourful, civilised and wild. Travelling on any budget is possible, choose a bus and a hammock in a palapa or aircondioned luxury with infinity pools and every whim attended to. I felt safe travelling alone there, and the people are welcoming kind generous and can easily become life long friends.

Posted: December 30, 2023Experienced: September, 2022

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Solo travel experience

I was in Mexico alone for a month and felt safe. When it comes to being a woman, sometimes someone would approach me, but mostly out of curiosity. Mexicans have a different way of being and it's worth getting used to the fact that someone might whistle or call out at times. But it's not dangerous. It's worth knowing Spanish, even at a basic level. I traveled around the Yucatan Peninsula + Mexico City and its surroundings, and sometimes ventured into places that were allegedly not recommended for tourists, but I didn't notice anyone looking at me aggressively. I'd happily return.

Posted: October 7, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I don't speak Spanish and I didn't do much research before leaving, but I absolutely loved Mexico. Everywhere was super safe, from Yucatan to Mexico and slightly north. Everyone was so kind, helpful, relaxed, and the food was delicious. Yucatan was a bit too colonial and everywhere Americans, but even so, I enjoyed the stay. I really loved CDMX and Oaxaca, as well as the Queretaro wine region. I may have traveled through half the country, or maybe more, and everywhere I felt safe and welcome.

Posted: September 26, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I had an amazing time in Mexico. I was cautious, but I felt really safe. I was nervous about the stories I had heard, but nothing bad happened at all. I visited Cancun, Oaxaca, San Cristobal, and Mexico City. The main advice I can give is to avoid tap water at all costs.

Posted: September 20, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I traveled alone to Mexico in March and I can say with 100% certainty that I felt completely safe. Hostels are very safe, and the locals are very friendly. I visited Tulum, Bacalar, Playa Del Carmen, and Holbox and at no point did I feel uneasy.

Posted: September 19, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I traveled alone for a month in Mexico this summer. I knew a little Spanish, but not too much. It is very safe there, and there were also a lot of European backpackers, so I was never the only traveler.

Posted: September 12, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I was in Mexico for two weeks in May. I visited Playa Del Carmen, Cancun, Tulum, Bacalar, Mahahual, and Cozumel. It was wonderful and I definitely recommend it. I mainly stayed in resorts and boutique hotels and didn't go out at night (unless I was partying). Overall, everything was amazing. Bacalar and Cozumel are tourist places that are "small", so I went out at night and it was crowded. In Cancun, it never even occurred to me to go out at night, because it's too big and I didn't feel safe there. I partied only in small towns or in Playa de Carmen, where there are tons of tourists 24/7 and there are only 2 streets with clubs. I speak Spanish, which is an added bonus.

Posted: August 12, 2023

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Before your visit to Mexico, 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.

🇨🇦

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: April 15, 2024

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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Mexico overall, due to the threat of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 5, 2024

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 33 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.9/5

Safety

4.2/5

Food

4.9/5

Budget-friendly

4.3/5

Solo travel experience

I backpacked solo through Mexico for 2 months in fall 2022. I absolutely enjoyed my trip. I stayed in hostels and made great friends. I mostly ate street food and cheap eats to keep costs low. I celebrated Dia de Muertos in Oaxaca and it couldn’t have been a better choice.

Posted: November 19, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5

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Solo travel experience

I spent 2 weeks traveling alone in Mexico. Mexico City - Campeche - Merida - Playa Del Carmen. I flew from Mexico City, then took the ADO bus between Campeche, Merida, and Playa Del Carmen and had only positive experiences. I love Mexico and can't wait to go back.

Posted: November 5, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5

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Meet local women in Mexico 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

Hey, My name is Gaby and I'm interested in culture, cycling, food & cuisine, nightlife and swimming

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Eugenia

About Me

I am a young Mexican girl looking for ways of exploring the world. I like to travel slowly and visit more than just the capital of any country I go to. I really enjoy backpacking, traveling in a simple way.

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Stay with local women in Mexico who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.

Eugenia

Guadalajara

Can host for:

3 days

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Sandra

Toluca

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I like sharing life and travel experiences. Dancing is the best, so I can go dancing or also talk and enjoy the view. I love the idea of women helping other women during traveling so I hope we can share some time or other experiences.

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Connect with upcoming visitors to Mexico who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.

Vivienne

About Me

Hi girls! Just hanging around Mexico for a couple of weeks, and would love to meet some new people and explore together. I’m passing through Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca city and Mexico City, so hit me up if you want to meet :) whether it’s for coffee, drinks, tacos, yoga or a dive in the water, I’m in.